Shows
Ashland ConnectedConnecting Through Communication and Community: A Conversation with Micah ElliotEvery day, businesses and organizations put information out into the world—updates, promotions, reminders—only to wonder later if anyone truly noticed. The challenge isn’t having something to say. It’s breaking through the noise long enough for people to hear it, understand it, and act on it.On this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Micah Elliott, Communication Strategist with DRM Productions and Retriever Digital Signage, to explore what effective communication really looks like today. Micah brings a unique perspective shaped by decades in desig...
2026-02-0826 min
Ashland ConnectedServing With Excellence: A Conversation with Josh BullServing with excellence isn’t about big gestures or flashy promises. It’s about showing up consistently, caring about people, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching. When businesses treat customers like neighbors and employees like family, trust is built naturally, and the results tend to follow. That's how Ashland works!Welcome to the first episode of Season 4 of the Ashland Connected podcast! In this episode, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Josh Bull, General Manager of Bill Harris Ford in Loudonville leadership, culture, and what it real...
2026-01-1121 min
Ashland ConnectedFortifying Financial Foundations: A Conversation with Jay DodaroDoing the right thing for others doesn’t need to be complicated. It starts with showing up, offering help, and caring enough to make decisions that put people first. When service becomes the foundation, everything else seems to fall into place a little more naturally.In this final episode of Season 3 of the Ashland Connected podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Jay Dodaro, President of Star Strategies, about what it looks like to build a business and a financial practice around that simple principle. Jay explains the “fiscal house...
2025-12-0730 min
Ashland ConnectedA Vietnam Veteran's Story: A Conversation with Greg GorrellSome stories wait a lifetime to be told. The Vietnam War may have ended fifty years ago, but for many who lived through it, including Ashland's own Greg Gorrell, the echoes never stopped. It takes rare courage to turn those echoes into words, to revisit the pain, and to offer hope through the telling. That's exactly what Greg has done. In this special Veterans Day episode of the Ashland Connected podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce sits down with Vietnam veteran and author Greg Gorrell to share his remarkable journey. Greg served in...
2025-11-0944 min
Ashland ConnectedThe SPARK Program: A Conversation with Jennifer WashockPreparing kids for kindergarten may sound simple, but it’s the difference between showing up ready to learn or starting behind. The SPARK program is doing something extraordinary: bringing early education into the home so every child has a real chance to thrive.In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Jennifer Washock, Lead Specialist for the SPARK Program through Appleseed Community Mental Health Center. Jennifer shares how SPARK helps three- and four-year-olds in Ashland County build the skills and confidence they need before kindergarten. Through in-home less...
2025-10-1223 min
Ashland ConnectedMaking Movies in Ashland Ohio: A Conversation with Phil GarrettThe magic of film doesn’t just belong to Hollywood. Right here in Ashland, Ohio, stories are being brought to life on screen, showing how a small community can play a big role in the world of movie-making. In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Phil Garrett, Head of Production and Development for Good Deed Entertainment and Cranked Up Films. Phil shares his journey from Springfield to Ashland and explains what excites him about bringing film production to a place that’s off the beaten path.
2025-09-0739 min
Ashland ConnectedNever-Next-Now at Mind Body and Soul: A Conversation with Raquel EatmonSometimes the biggest breakthroughs don’t happen in the boardroom or on a stage. They happen in the quiet places—unexpected, uncomfortable, and unfiltered. Maybe it’s a moment of failure, a harsh word overheard, or simply the realization that pretending your way through life isn’t sustainable. It’s in those moments we decide: keep faking it, or finally face it. And when we choose to face it, everything changes.In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Raquel Eatman, CEO of Rising Media and founder of the Woman...
2025-08-0332 min
Ashland ConnectedTop Notch Healthcare Close to Home: A Conversation with Sylvia RadziszewskiAshland’s healthcare story is one you don’t hear every day—a blend of small-town connection and big-league innovation. But things are changing. As the heath care industry adapts to pressures and uncertainty, it's important that there is a strong health care presence remaining here in Ashland. Ashland deserves top notch healthcare, close to home, and that is what we're talking about here.In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Sylvia Radziszewski, Chief Operating Officer and Hospital President of University Hospital's Samaritan Medical Center, about th...
2025-07-0628 min
Ashland ConnectedThe Ashland Public Library-Your Key to the Entire World: A Conversation with Charlene TolbertIf you haven’t been to the library lately, a lot has changed. Yes there are still lots and lots of books, and we love the books! But there are so many additional products and services available, making the library a resource that can be a key to the entire world. In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce interviews Charlene Tolbert, the Director of the Ashland Public Library. They discuss Charlene's journey to becoming a librarian, the various services the library offers beyond just books, and the importa...
2025-06-0127 min
Ashland ConnectedMental Health from a Holistic Perspective: A conversation with Dr. Johanna WilsonMay is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it's an important topic. There is a stigma about mental health, asking for help, and even joining in the effort to provide treatment. We are fortunate in Ashland County to have access to innovative treatments and specialists who care. Because a happy and healthy community is what Ashland is all about. In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks Mental Health with Dr. Johanna Wilson, CEO of HOPE 419. Together, they discuss the importance of a holistic approach to mental health. ...
2025-05-0424 min
Ashland ConnectedCelebrating Ashland’s History. A Conversation with Sara FisherWe can learn a lot when we study history. Where we come from can tell us a lot about where we’re headed. How much do you know about Ashland history? There’s a lot to learn. Luckily for us, it’s easy to do so, due to the incredible resources available to us at the Ashland County Historical Society. In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks Ashland History with Sarah Fisher, the new executive director of the Ashland County Historical Society. Sarah shares her background...
2025-04-0637 min
Ashland ConnectedSandy Burkholder: Armstrong Cable, Our Community ChampionThere may be no more noble a pursuit than serving your community with commitment, pride and excellence. That's the kind of company Armstrong Cable is in Ashland. They've been a community champion for many years, and they're making a difference for our future. In this episode of the Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce interviews Sandy Burkholder, the Office Manager and Community Marketing Manager for Armstrong Cable here in Ashland. They discuss Sandy's long tenure with the company, the various community initiatives Armstrong supports, including veteran assistance programs and local events.
2025-03-0925 min
Ashland ConnectedNancy Pauly of EVA's Treats: Your Hometown Yogurt ShopIn this episode of the Ashland Connected podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Nancy Pauly, the owner of Eva's Treats, your hometown yogurt shop in Ashland. Nancy shares her journey from a career in staff development for individuals with intellectual disabilities to becoming a small business owner of Eva's Treats, the reigning Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year!The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of running a family-oriented business, the importance of community engagement, and the unique customer experience at Eva's Treats. Na...
2025-02-0920 min
Ashland ConnectedJarred Bates: The Creative Side of Selling CarsIn this episode of the Ashland Connected podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Jared Bates, the Marketing and Creative head at Bill Harris Auto Center. They discuss the innovative and creative approaches to car sales, the importance of community engagement, and the strategies behind effective content creation. Jared shares his journey from local roots to his current role, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and transparency in the dealership experience. The conversation also touches on the dealership's commitment to community growth and the introduction of new services that en...
2025-01-1225 min
Ashland ConnectedThe Thrill of Simulated Shooting: A Conversation with Terri WoodIn this episode of Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce interviews Terri Wood, the founder of Hot Shots Virtual Shooting Range. They discuss Terry's background, the inspiration behind the shooting range, and the various training and educational programs offered. The conversation also highlights community engagement through initiatives like Armed Women of America, fun family activities available at the range, and membership options. As per norm for this monthly podcast, this episode concludes with a light-hearted segment of fun questions and a reminder of the importance of...
2024-12-0830 min
Ashland ConnectedBeing Here For Good: A Conversation with Jim "Cutty" CutrightIn this episode of Ashland Connected, host Amy Daubenspeck, President of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce speaks with Jim Cutright, president and CEO of the Ashland County Community Foundation. Amy and "Cutty"discuss the foundation's growth, its impact on the community, and the various programs it offers, including scholarships and youth engagement initiatives. Cutty shares insights on the foundation's response to COVID-19, plans for its 30th anniversary, and the importance of community philanthropy. The conversation highlights the foundation's mission to improve the quality of life in Ashland County and the collaborative efforts to support...
2024-11-1036 min
Ashland ConnectedAshland County's Hidden Gem: The Ashland Symphony OrchestraIn this episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast, host Amy Daubenspeck, Executive Director of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, talks with Michael Repper, Grammy Award winning Music Director and Conductor of the Ashland Symphony Orchestra and Martha Buckner, Executive Director of the Ashland Symphony OrchestraWe discuss the history of the Ashland Symphony Orchestra=The orchestra started in 1925 and has grown from a community orchestra to a fully professional orchestra and the programs they provide for students and citizens in Ashland County and beyond. The Ashland Connected Podcast is brought to you by the...
2024-10-0637 min
Ashland ConnectedMarty Wesner and Natalie Goschinski: The Ashland Civic Center CampaignMarty Wesner, President of the Ashland County Fair Board, and Natalie Goschinski, Chair of the Ashland Civic Center Campaign Committee join Amy Daubenspeck, Director of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce to discuss the need to update the fairgrounds and their efforts to raise funds for the proposed Ashland Civic Center. They describe the features of the proposed building, including a large event space, meeting rooms, showers, a patio area, and a full kitchen. They emphasize that the new facility will benefit the entire community and attract events beyond just the county fair. The fundraising goal is $6 m...
2024-09-0226 min
Ashland ConnectedPeggy Anderson of Third Street Family Services: Health and Wellness for All ins AshlandPeggy Anderson, the CEO of 3rd Street Family Health Services, joins Amy Daubenspeck of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce to discuss their efforts to make healthcare more accessible to the community.They discuss the background and services offered by 3rd Street, including primary care, behavioral health, dental care, and community health programs. They also talk about the importance of community partnerships and raising awareness for the organization. Peggy mentions the challenges of transportation in rural communities and the need to address social determinants of health. They touch on fundraising efforts and grant requests to su...
2024-08-1118 min
Ashland ConnectedRobert and Nicole Hawks: Leading the Way for the Ashland United WayNicole and Robert Hawks, the new campaign co-chairs for Ashland United Way, join Amy Daubenspeck of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce to discuss their involvement with the Ashland United Way and the upcoming 2025 campaign. They highlight the importance of supporting partner agencies and programs that address issues such as child abuse, housing, and food insecurity. They encourage individuals to donate, volunteer, and get involved in United Way events, and to help them recognize and serve the need that exists in Ashland County.Plus, it's a Husband and Wife "Lighting Round", and that's always a...
2024-07-1526 min
Ashland ConnectedZach Burgess: Hot Air Ballooning for Business and PleasureZach Burgess from Ashland Balloon Rides joins host Amy Daubenspeck of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce in the latest episode of the Ashland Connected Podcast. Zach shares his journey into hot air ballooning, the types of balloons they have, participating in events, and the impact of weather on flying. He also discusses the upcoming Ashland Balloon Fest and the benefits of being connected with the community through the chamber.The Ashland Connected Podcast is brought to you by the Bill Harris Auto Center.
2024-06-1023 min
Ashland ConnectedSteve and Christine Myers, and Holly Dawson: The Visual Bucket List:In this episode, host Amy Daubenspeck of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Steve and Christine Myers, with Holly Dawson of the Visual Bucket ListThe Visual Bucket List is a charitable organization that provides life experience "wishes" to those who are dealing with diminished sight. This cause was born here in Ashland, and is growing to serve others nationwide to experience dreams come true, before it's too late. This story is emotional, and important, and we appreciate your support of the Visual Bucket list. The Ashland Connected Podcast is brought...
2024-05-1033 min
Ashland ConnectedBekah Smith: Meditation through Music TherapyIn this episode, host Amy Daubenspeck of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Bekah Smith, MT-BC ~ Music Therapist, University Hospitals Connor Whole Health, Samaritan Medical Center.Bekah turned a love of sports and a passion for music into a career in music therapy, a new and growing profession that helps people heal and recover with music. She targets stress pain and coping by providing support with something that everyone loves, music. It's one more innovative way University Hospitals is connecting the Ashland County region to the finest and most advanced healthcare services.And...
2024-04-0823 min
Ashland ConnectedJosh Lehman of Junior Achievement: Empowering the Next GenerationIn this episode, host Amy Daubenspeck of the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce talks with Josh Lehman, Chief Operating Officer at Junior Achievement. It is no secret that young people are the future of any community, especially a growing community like Ashland. Josh and Junior Achievement are putting programs and opportunities in place to help our young people embrace the opportunities in front of them, some of which they never knew existed.Until now!The Ashland Connected Podcast is brought to you by The Bill Harris Auto Center.
2024-03-0827 min
Ashland ConnectedEric Schneider: Outdoors Opportunities in Ashland CountyThis episode features Eric Schneider, Director of the Ashland County Park District. Amy Daubenspeck talks with Eric about the growth of the Ashland County Parks system, his experience in the Cuyahoga County Parks department, and about new opportunities and projects Ashland County residents can expect coming soon. Amy and Eric also take a closer look into the community effort that came together to pull off the Candy Cane Trail at Freer Field, a big Christmas success in 2023 and for many more years to come!Ashland Connected is brought to you by the Ashland Area Chamber of...
2024-02-1926 min
Ashland ConnectedAaron Harris of Bill Harris Dealerships: The road to success in 2023 and into the New YearWelcome to the first episode of the new year! It's Season Two of Ashland Connected! This episode features Aaron Harris, of Bill Harris Dealerships! Amy Daubenspeck talks with Pete about the success of 2023, which was a difficult year to say the least in the local economy and in the auto industry. Aaron talks about overcoming auto worker issues and interest rates, and how his team succeeded against all odds in 2023. Local, connected, and involved... that's Bill Harris Dealerships, and we're proud that they are a big part of our success here, too, on the Ashland Connected Podcast.
2024-01-1516 min
Ashland ConnectedPete Cooper and Goldberry Roasting Company: Coffee and CommunityThe final episode of Year One of Ashland Connected features Doug Cooper, of Goldberry Roasting Company. Amy Daubenspeck talks with Pete about the "Ten Year Overnight Success" that is Goldberry Roasting Company. They are a for-profit roastery that is expanding outside of its current space, and a non-profit coffee community helping coffee farmers in Mexico. Pete talks about the process of running and growing the company "from the seed to the cup", and about connection and community serving others in need.Ashland Connected is brought to you by the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, and sp...
2023-12-0922 min
Ashland ConnectedStacy Schiemann: Leading the Way In this episode of Ashland Connected, Amy Daubenspeck talks with United Way of Ashland County Executive Director Stacy Schiemann about leading an organization that leads others to serve. In good times and in bad, Stacy Schiemann is on the front lines with her team and the Ashland community helping everyone in this county be the best they can be.Stacy talks about the needs of Ashland County, and how her partnership with the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce helps to foster strong relationships to maintain a strong ability to serve others in need. Ashland Connected...
2023-11-1325 min
Ashland ConnectedSandra Tunnell/Ashland Main Street: Making Main Street MatterAshland County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Amy Daubenspeck welcomes Sandra Tunnell, Executive Director of Ashland Main Street to the show.Ashland Main Street and Ashland Area Chamber are different entities, serving different purposes. But working together, big things are happening. Sandra discusses how the downtown area is growing, changing, and reinvigorating the city of Ashland for good! Ashland Connected is brought to you by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland.
2023-10-1425 min
Ashland ConnectedMike McPherran and Brock Meadows of Dulci Sweets: Making people smile with chocolateAshland County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Amy Daubenspeck welcomes the founders of Ashland's own Dulci Sweets, Mike McPherran and Brock Meadows.Dulci Sweets is a faith-based business created during a time of hardship for others, for purpose of giving back and making a difference. If you want to make someone smile, give them chocolate.Listeners of this episode can claim 15% off their next Dulci Sweets purchase using the special coupon code Ashland15 at www.dulcisweets.com. Ashland Connected is brought to you by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland.
2023-09-1427 min
Ashland ConnectedSue Ramsey: Great Teams Have Great TeammatesCoach Sue Ramsey isn't just a legend in Ashland Ohio, or at Ashland University. As a longtime coach of the Ashland University Lady Eagles basketball team, she has stamped her mark on college basketball as a winner, a leader, and a motivational force. She has won championships, developed leaders who have won championships, and coached players who have excelled beyond the norm. Now, she turns her talents to helping business leaders learn from her success. This is Ashland Connected, brought to you by the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, and sponsored by the Bill Harris Dealerships.
2023-08-1421 min
Ashland ConnectedDr. Roger Snyder and Cheryl Benway: The Ashland Christian Health CenterAshland County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Amy Daubenspeck welcomes The Ashland Christian Health Center to the Ashland Connected Podcast, featuring Dr. Roger Snyder and Cheryl Benway.The Ashland Christian Health Center exists to ensure that no one goes without the medicine and medical care they need. They are fulfilling that mission, and are now celebrating their 20th anniversary in Ashland. Learn more about the Ashland Christian Health Center, and how being connected in Ashland is connecting God's love and health care to all.Ashland Connected is brought to you by the Bill...
2023-07-1730 min
Ashland ConnectedIan Robinson and Holli Brummett: Buddies Buddies...Ashland Non Profit Service Dogs for VeteransIan Robinson and Holly Brummett have begun a new nonprofit organization called Buddies Buddies Kennel. They raise, train and support service dogs for disabled veterans. This episode has heart, told from the wounded warrior who began this journey, to the story of those disabled veterans who need assistance and a friend. The Ashland Chamber of Commerce supports Buddies Buddies and all of the nonprofit organizations that make Ashland the wonderful place it is.
2023-06-1721 min
Ashland ConnectedShaNa Benner: The Kind of Place You'd Love to Call HomeShaNa Benner, the Executive Director of the Inn at Ashland Woods. The Inn at Ashland Woods offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services. ShaNa relies on Chamber Services to connect with Ashland in a facility that used to be the well-known Hospice of North Central Ohio location. Getting the information out to introduce new services and distinguish them from the past is important. Networking and communications are key.
2023-05-1216 min
Ashland ConnectedSherry Butcher and Dave Lepka: Flying high in Ashland, Ohio!AerOhio is a big-time draw for folks who want to jump out of planes and parachute to the ground in Ashland County. In this episode of Ashland Connected, Sherry Butcher and Dave Lepka share their story of moving their business to the Ashland area and enjoying great growth and warm new friendships. Ashland Connected is brought to you by the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland and in Loudonville
2023-04-1630 min
Ashland ConnectedGinny Telego: Harnessing Potential with Ashland ConnectionsIn this episode of Ashland Connected, Amy Daubenspeck talks with Ginny Telego, President and Facilitator at The Collaboration Partners. Ginny talks about leadership, and how she sees similar traits in leadership everywhere she travels to implement her expertise. Ginny gives credit for her growth and the company's success to her connections with the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce and shares how others can do the same. Along the way, you'll learn about horses, Star Wars, and a little bit about what awaits Ginny in her last year with the Leadership Ashland County program
2023-03-1318 min
Ashland ConnectedJoe Reep: It's Good to be Home!In this second episode of Ashland Connected, Amy Daubenspeck, Executive Director of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, talks with Joe Reep, President of the family owned Comfort Control Ohio in Ashland Ohio.Joe talks about the business his family built, and what it means to him to be able to do business here in Ashland. Leaving and coming home again to be able to give back means everything to Joe, and it should be an inspiring story to others. Bonus... tune in to the "3 Question Lighting Round" and hear how Joe's son did in the fire drill...
2023-02-1012 min
Ashland ConnectedAaron Harris: Faith , Family and Community FirstIn this premier episode of Ashland Connected, Amy Daubenspeck, Executive Director of Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, talks with Aaron Harris, General Manager at the Bill Harris Dealerships in Ashland and Loudonville. Aaron talks about his father, Bill Harris, Sr and the impact he had on Ashland as a business owner, Senator and father...and how being connected in the Ashland community has made a difference in the lives of youngsters in Ashland. Sports, events and helping families stay on track is just one more way Bill Harris Dealerships stays connected, and grows, in Ashland County
2023-01-1417 min