Behind the Business with the Kendallville Area Chamber of Commerce

Kendallville Area Chamber Podcast
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Each episode, we sit down with the people behind the businesses that make our community special. We'll hear their stories, celebrate their successes, and learn how they're shaping the future of Kendallville!

  1. 4 hr ago

    More Than a T-Shirt: Inside Betty Lou Designs & Graphics with Monica Corbin

    A local business’s survival story, the hidden power of buying local, and the surprising tech keeping custom apparel from going generic; Monica Corbin reveals how Betty Lou Designs and Graphics keeps Kendallville looking sharp. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to run a Main Street business for 10 years, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the challenges, investments, and community relationships that make it work. Monica shares how she went from teaching swim lessons at the YMCA to co-owning a shop that handles everything from custom T-shirts and engraved awards to banners, signage, trophies, and medals. You’ll discover: Why direct-to-film printing is changing custom apparel and solving the problem of highly detailed AI-generated logosHow a storefront gives customers the edge over online-only printers by letting them see, touch, and try things on before they buyWhat recent investments in a UV printer, screen printing, and engraving equipment mean for local businesses, schools, sports teams, and benefit eventsWhy small businesses supporting small businesses is the backbone of Kendallville’s local economyHow Betty Lou Designs helps streamline team orders, business apparel, and last-minute game-day needs Monica also explains the realities behind the business: the equipment costs, the need to adapt, and why keeping custom work local still matters when national online shops promise convenience. From benefit fundraisers to downtown events like Final Fridays and the Family Harvest Festival, her story shows how a shop can become part of the fabric of a town. This episode is perfect for anyone who loves local business stories, community-driven entrepreneurship, or wants a smarter way to get custom apparel and signage done without the guesswork.

  2. 5 days ago

    More Than Pizza: How Bufala Fest Is Fighting Hunger in Noble County

    What happens when a passion for authentic Neapolitan pizza meets a desire to help people in need? You get Bufala Fest! In this episode of Behind the Business, Mike Haefer of One House of Bufala Pizzeria Napoletana shares the story behind this incredible community event, and how what began as a simple gesture of giving away pizzas during the pandemic has grown into a massive fundraiser benefiting all six food pantries in Noble County. Mike takes us behind the scenes of his journey into authentic Neapolitan pizza, the creation of Bufala Fest, and the overwhelming support from local businesses, volunteers and community members. This year's goal? 15,000+ meals! And Bufala Fest isn't just about food. With free pizza, chicken, gelato, live entertainment, bounce houses and face painting, it's a family-friendly celebration centered around one simple idea: breaking bread, sharing smiles and helping our neighbors. Tune in to hear Mike's inspiring story and learn how you can be part of making a difference in Noble County. If you can't attend but would still like to make a donation, use this link: https://bit.ly/bufala

  3. 30 Aug

    Steeped in Purpose: The Story of Charani’s Teas with owner, Stacey Gillespie

    What happens when a passion for holistic health becomes a business built around helping others? In this episode of Behind the Business, Nikole sits down with Stacey Gillespie, owner of Charani’s Teas, to hear the inspiring story behind her unique tea business. From navigating the challenges of opening a brick-and-mortar shop to creating more than 70 custom loose-leaf tea blends, Stacey has built a business rooted in health, flavor, and personal connection. Stacey shares how her own experiences sparked her passion for natural wellness, what makes Charani’s personalized tea blends different, and why building relationships and supporting other local businesses are such an important part of her journey. It’s a conversation about perseverance, purpose, community, and, of course, finding the perfect cup of tea!

  4. 24 Aug

    Showing Up Can Change a Life: The Power of Mentorship with Jill Dunham of Big Brothers, Big Sisters

    What does it really take to make a difference in a child’s life? Sometimes, it’s simply showing up. In this episode of Behind the Business with the Chamber, Jill Dunham, Director of Community Development for Big Brothers Big Sisters in Noble and DeKalb Counties, shares her journey from a 20-year career in the restaurant industry to nonprofit work, and why she has fallen in love with the mission of helping local youth thrive. Jill talks about the challenges of building relationships in a new community, the importance of local support, and some of her proudest moments so far, including a sold-out Bowl for Kids’ Sake fundraiser and bringing local mentors together to connect and share their experiences. We also talk about the School Buddy Program, an opportunity for volunteers to mentor elementary students during the school day, and how a relatively small investment of time can have a lasting impact on a child. From community connections to giving back, Jill offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and programs working to make a difference for local kids, and why there is always room for another caring adult to step up. And yes…we even learn a fun fact about Jill that you probably won't guess! If you've ever wondered what Big Brothers Big Sisters does, how you can become a mentor, or how your support stays right here in our community, this conversation is a great place to start.

  5. 15 Aug

    Relentless by Name, Relentless by Nature: Built to last with Kyle Bolen

    What does it take to turn a passion for building into a thriving business? For Kyle Bolen, owner of Relentless Tile & Remodeling, it takes determination, creativity, and a relentless commitment to doing things right. In this episode of Behind the Business, Kyle shares the story behind his journey into construction, the inspiration behind the name “Relentless,” and why quality craftsmanship, especially when it comes to tile and custom showers, is at the heart of everything he does. We also talk about the realities of running a growing construction business, from pricing and hiring to mentoring the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Kyle reflects on one of his proudest projects, the restoration of Kendallville’s historic Strand Theater, and how projects like this connect his work to the community he calls home. It’s a candid conversation about craftsmanship, perseverance, entrepreneurship, and the importance of building something that lasts, both in your work and in your community.

  6. 9 Aug

    More Than Skin Deep: The Vision Behind Precision Aesthetic Medicine

    What if your med spa felt more like a trusted partnership than an assembly line? In this episode of Behind the Business, Nikole sits down with Dr. Kevin Lowe, founder of Precision Aesthetic Medicine, to discuss his transition from a career in general and cancer surgery to opening a patient-centered aesthetic practice in downtown Auburn. Dr. Lowe shares the challenges of launching a business from the ground up, the realities of balancing medicine with entrepreneurship, and why he believes aesthetic treatments should enhance both confidence and skin health. From Botox and Xeomin to skincare, chemical peels, and future services like microneedling and lasers, he explains what today's aesthetic medicine can really do, and clears up some common misconceptions along the way. The conversation also explores Dr. Lowe's commitment to investing in the Kendallville community and building a practice where relationships come first. Whether you're curious about aesthetic medicine, starting a business, or supporting local entrepreneurs, this episode offers an insightful look at the vision behind Precision Aesthetic Medicine.

  7. 1 Aug

    55 Years of Caring: The Story Behind Kendallville Daycare with Director, Tina Lee

    What happens when childcare becomes more than a place to drop off your children? It becomes a community, a support system, and a second family. In this episode of Behind the Business with the Kendallville Chamber, I sit down with Tina Lee, Director of Kendallville Daycare Center, to talk about what it really takes to provide quality early childhood care while supporting the families and community you serve. With more than 25 years of experience in early childhood education, Tina shares her journey from California to Noble County and the story behind Kendallville Daycare Center’s 55-year legacy. We talk about the challenges childcare providers face today—from fluctuating enrollment and funding cuts following COVID to the ever-changing needs of working families—and how Tina and her team continue to adapt and find creative solutions. But what makes Kendallville Daycare Center special goes far beyond its programs. Tina explains how creating a family atmosphere, embracing diversity, supporting children with special needs, and building genuine relationships with families have become central to the center’s success. We also talk about the many ways Kendallville Daycare Center connects with the broader community, including partnerships with organizations like Kids City and the Noble County Foundation, as well as events and initiatives that bring families together. From caring for children as young as six weeks through age 12 to finding innovative ways to make childcare accessible to families, Tina offers a behind-the-scenes look at both the challenges and the rewards of leading a nonprofit childcare center. Whether you're a parent, educator, community leader, or simply someone who cares about the future of our community, you'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the people who dedicate their lives to caring for our youngest residents. Join us as we get to know Tina Lee, discover the heart behind Kendallville Daycare Center, and learn why sometimes the most important thing a child can receive is a community that truly cares.

  8. 26 Jul

    Beyond the Fairway: How Noble Hawk Is Growing Golf & Community with Michael Johnson

    What makes a golf course more than just 18 holes? In this episode, we sit down with Michael Johnson, Head Golf Professional at Noble Hawk Golf Course, to talk about his journey into the game, his passion for teaching, and the role golf plays in building stronger communities. Michael shares how he has grown Noble Hawk's junior golf program, why he believes anyone—at any age—can learn to love the game, and how family-focused events are creating lasting memories both on and off the course. We also explore the Greater Indiana Golf initiative, the economic impact of golf tourism on Noble County, and why Noble Hawk has become a destination for golfers across the Midwest. Whether you're an avid golfer, curious about picking up the sport for the first time, or simply interested in how local businesses and recreation strengthen a community, this conversation is full of inspiration and insight. In this episode you'll discover: How Noble Hawk is inspiring the next generation of golfers.Why it's never too late to start playing golf.The power of family-friendly golf programs and community partnerships.How golf tourism is helping drive economic growth in Noble County.What makes Noble Hawk Golf Course a standout destination in Northeast Indiana.Grab your clubs—or just your favorite beverage—and join us for an engaging conversation about golf, community, and creating opportunities for everyone to enjoy the game.

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Each episode, we sit down with the people behind the businesses that make our community special. We'll hear their stories, celebrate their successes, and learn how they're shaping the future of Kendallville!

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