Torch Talk

Lindsey Chupp

Torch Talk is the podcast for bold local leaders. Each week, we sit down with entrepreneurs, experts, and change makers to talk strategy, leadership, marketing, and what it really takes to grow a business today. Honest insights. No fluff. Real stories.

  1. 1D AGO

    End of the Year Wrap Up

    In this special “Fierce Wrapped” episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey Chupp sits down with Julia Kooser, Director of Client Success, to unpack what really changed in marketing this year. They talk honestly about the shifts business owners are feeling, especially as platforms evolve faster and traditional tactics don’t always perform the way they used to. The conversation covers how Fierce has adapted its strategy in real time, what’s working across client accounts, and what leaders should be paying attention to as they plan for 2026. From advertising and SEO to social and email, this episode focuses on clarity, consistency, and staying grounded in the middle of constant change. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How Google Ads and Meta are leaning further into automation and broader targetingWhy marketing can feel less predictable, and how to adaptSEO volatility, algorithm changes, and the growing role of AIWhy short-form video and authentic content still perform bestInstagram and Pinterest acting more like search platformsThe “two C’s” for 2026: consistency and cohesivenes

    15 min

  2. DEC 23

    Converting a Christmas Hater

    In this special Christmas edition of Torch Talk, Lindsey gathers members of the Fierce Creative Solutions team, Ash, Taylor, and Ashley, for a hilarious, cozy, and surprising conversation about all things Christmas. This episode involves decorating timelines to favorite movies, childhood nostalgia, chaotic work parties, and one teammate who isn’t fully sold on Christmas. Listen as they dive into their holiday traditions, including November-1st decorating, Christmas Eve rituals, red-and-green snack nights, and the universal struggle of managing December’s overloaded calendar. Lindsey shares how Christmas changed for her once she became a parent, while Taylor and Ash defend their Christmas-crazy tendencies. Meanwhile, Ashley explains her very specific rules for when Christmas music is allowed and why she refuses to join the early-decorating movement. The team also swaps stories about past work Christmas parties, gift-giving hits and misses, and what employees actually appreciate most from employers during the holidays. In this episode, you’ll hear: • Why Christmas means something different for each person on the team • The debate over when Christmas decorating should officially begin • Holiday tradition ideas, from nostalgic to brand-new • Stories of memorable workplace Christmas parties, fun and uncomfortable alike • What employees genuinely value at the end of the year • The challenge to convert Ashley into a true Christmas lover Equal parts heartwarming and hilarious, this episode captures the joy, chaos, and connection that make the holidays meaningful, at work and at home.

    26 min

  3. DEC 16

    Hard Work Pays Off

    In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey sits down with Ben Nichols, a 22-year-old photographer whose career has already stretched from Ohio high school gyms to NCAA arenas, NFL sidelines, and even a future climb up Mount Everest. Ben shares the wild, unexpected, and deeply driven journey behind Wayne County Sports, his rapidly growing media brand that reaches millions each year. Ben opens up about launching his first sports page in high school, getting his start shooting games during Army basic training, and the break that changed everything: an invitation to photograph at Murray State University. Since then, his work has taken him across the country and connected him with top athletes, including Travis Hunter, whose engagement photos catapulted Ben onto a national stage. In this episode, you’ll hear: • How a $175 pawn shop camera sparked a career in sports media • The moment a single college photographer gave Ben his first real shot • What it’s like to shoot NCAA tournaments, Colorado football, and high-profile athletes • How Ben built a mentoring community of more than 40 young photographers • The local impact of Wayne County Sports — and why he believes the spotlight belongs on the kids • Why his next chapter includes a Mount Everest climb and a documentary on school violence Through humor, honesty, and relentless hustle, Ben shares how grit, gratitude, and faith shaped every step of his story.

    38 min

  4. DEC 9

    From Dairy to Discipleship

    In this powerful episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey sits down with Caleb Carpenter, Worship Pastor at Mennonite Christian Assembly, to talk about the long, winding, deeply personal road that led him into ministry. Caleb opens up about his years working at a local dairy plant, the struggles in his marriage, and the moment that brought him to rock bottom and straight into a life-changing encounter with Christ. Caleb shares how the Holy Spirit transformed his life, his marriage, and his purpose, shifting him from a 12-year career in the dairy industry to full-time ministry. He talks candidly about sin, repentance, healing, Scripture, and the unmistakable peace that marked his turning point. From learning guitar on the fly to stepping into leadership roles he never expected, Caleb’s story is a raw and honest look at God’s power to rebuild what feels broken. In this episode, you’ll hear: • How Caleb went from “planning to work at the dairy forever” to becoming a worship pastor • The moment of surrender that changed his marriage, his mindset, and his future • What Scripture and discipleship taught him about leadership, humility, and purpose • The role of worship, community, and service in his spiritual growth • Why he believes true transformation can only come from the Holy Spirit This episode is a testimony to redemption, calling, and the everyday courage it takes to follow where God leads.

    46 min

  5. DEC 2

    The Fierce Team Takeover

    In this special takeover episode of Torch Talk, Julia Kooser, Fierce's Director of Client Success, steps in for Lindsey and takes listeners inside the departments that power Fierce Creative Solutions. This episode reveals the real conversations, collaboration, and problem-solving that happen behind the scenes every day, from digital strategy and SEO to copywriting, creative production, project management, and operations. Julia sits down with team members across Fierce, Ash, Ashley, Vinny, Garrett, Lainey, and Rachel, to talk about what client success really looks like. They discuss adapting campaigns based on CRM feedback, creating authentic content, navigating on-site client training, setting expectations, managing deadlines, and how each department works together to support the client experience from start to finish. In this episode, you’ll hear: • How digital, creative, and content teams translate client goals into measurable results • Why on-site visits create better understanding, stronger relationships, and more authentic content • How project management keeps timelines, communication, and deliverables aligned • The role of operations in building systems, hiring well, and maintaining the Fierce culture • Real examples of collaboration, healthy tension, and continuous improvement This candid, team-driven episode showcases the heartbeat of Fierce: clear communication, shared purpose, and a unified commitment to client success.

    44 min

  6. NOV 25

    Clarity, Energy, Courage, and Productivity

    In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey sits down with Kevin West, executive coach, founder of Invisible Insights, and member of the Forbes Coaches Council. They discuss the deeper, often unseen work that drives leadership, growth, and transformation. Kevin breaks down the ideas behind his coaching philosophy, including why every epiphany requires a strategy, how leaders can manage attention instead of time, and why clarity unlocks the energy and courage needed for change. He also shares real examples from coaching CEOs and business owners across the country, showing what it takes to scale a company without losing control or losing yourself in the process. In this episode, you’ll hear: • How Kevin approaches new levels in life and business • Why attention management matters more than time management • The danger of leading through manufactured energy • How leaders can avoid getting stuck in the first pivot • The five focal points every business owner needs: clarity, energy, courage, productivity, and influence • Why delegating your “have-to-do” list is essential for growth Packed with clarity, candor, and practical frameworks, this conversation offers a roadmap for leaders who want to step into their next level without burning out or dragging the wagon alone.

    42 min

  7. NOV 18

    Know your Customers, Know your Marketing

    In this Torch Talk episode, Lindsey sits down with Leah Keim, who shares what it’s like to grow and evolve inside a family business, Country Roofing and Exteriors, alongside her brothers, Aaron and Ruben. Leah opens up about her journey from corporate marketing into a smaller, fast-paced environment where every team member wears many hats and impact is immediate. She reflects on how the company has grown from a small roofing crew into a full-service exterior business, and how her marketing background helped shape its identity. Leah also talks candidly about the balance between work and motherhood, the flexibility that comes with a family-run business, and the lessons learned from watching her brothers build something lasting from the ground up. In this conversation, Leah shares insights on:  • Bringing structure and process into a growing small business  • The power of rebranding and clear communication with customers  • Balancing motherhood with leadership  • Why small businesses have a unique, tangible impact on people’s lives  • The value of working alongside family, and learning from each other’s strengths As Leah puts it, “You put some of your own heart into it… seeing the fruits of that is really special.” It’s a grounded, honest conversation about growth, grace, and finding purpose in both work and family.

    36 min

  8. NOV 11

    A Home for Memories

    In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey sits down with Sandi Stoltzfus, owner and venue coordinator of Winesburg Farm, one of Ohio’s most picturesque wedding destinations nestled in the heart of Amish Country. What began as a family project has grown into a breathtaking venue known for its beauty, warmth, and personal touch. Sandi shares the story behind restoring the 200-year-old farmhouse and 180-year-old barn, turning them into a space where couples can relax, celebrate, and feel completely at home. With her simple but powerful approach of listening deeply, caring personally, and executing with excellence, Sandi and her family have created more than just a venue. They’ve built a place that celebrates love, legacy, and connection. In this episode, you’ll hear:  • The story behind transforming Winesburg Farm into a modern yet timeless wedding venue  • How Sandi blends tradition, family, and hospitality to make each celebration unique  • What it’s like to run a business as a family, and make it stronger in the process  • The moments and memories that remind her why she loves what she does  • How local collaboration keeps Holmes County’s creative community thriving It’s a heartfelt look at what happens when passion meets purpose and how one family turned a historic farm into a place where people feel seen, celebrated, and loved.

    26 min
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About

Torch Talk is the podcast for bold local leaders. Each week, we sit down with entrepreneurs, experts, and change makers to talk strategy, leadership, marketing, and what it really takes to grow a business today. Honest insights. No fluff. Real stories.

Information

  • Creator
    Lindsey Chupp
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Torch Talk
  • Show Website
    Torch Talk