Community Convener

Henry County Chamber

Community Convener is the official podcast of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, where we bring you the voices shaping our business community. This podcast is designed to help you grow, lead, and connect. Each episode features local leaders, updates on Chamber initiatives, upcoming events, and the stories driving Henry County forward. So grab a coffee, and let's dive in!

  1. Oct 20

    Recognizing Talent, Measuring Impact

    Send us Fan Mail From recognizing overlooked talent to understanding the economic power of tourism, this episode of Community Convener explores two important opportunities shaping Henry County’s future. In our Community Dialogue, Christy Chewning with Central Georgia EMC sits down with Jeff Allen of the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) and Keri Colson of VyStar Credit Union for a conversation on The Untapped Workforce: Neurodiversity and Disability in the Workplace. Together, they explore barriers to employment, the value of diverse abilities, and how businesses can rethink hiring practices to create more inclusive workplaces and strengthen their teams. Then, Laura Luker, Director of Tourism for Visit Henry County, joins us for Tourism Trends to unpack Henry County’s 2025 tourism economic impact numbers. From visitor spending to the businesses and jobs supported by tourism, we take a closer look at how the tourism industry contributes to our local economy and why its continued growth matters to the entire business community. Barbara Ingram also brings us this month’s Connecting Point, tying together key takeaways from our workforce conversation. Plus, catch up on the latest Chamber member news and upcoming events. Recorded in our Georgia Power studio and proudly sponsored by RAM-Tech PC Solutions. Georgia PowerPowered by Georgia Power—committed to reliable energy, great service & strong community impact.RAM-Tech PC SolutionsTrusted IT support and managed IT services provider in Atlanta for 20+ years. They provide expert ITDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

  2. Oct 5

    A Healthier Henry: Growth, Access & What’s Ahead

    Send us Fan Mail Henry County is growing, and so is the healthcare infrastructure needed to serve our community. In Episode 19 of Community Convener, Joseph Henning sits down with David Kent, CEO of Piedmont Henry Hospital, for a Catalytic Conversation about the hospital’s new patient tower, expanding healthcare services, and what these investments mean for Henry County. We also spotlight The Citizen’s Playbook, our civics-focused podcast helping residents better understand government and community engagement, and Clayton Carte with Henry County Government joins us for the latest SPLOST Update. Plus, catch up on Chamber member news and upcoming events happening across Henry County. This episode of Community Convener is supported by Georgia Power and proudly sponsored by RAM-Tech PC Solutions. Georgia PowerPowered by Georgia Power—committed to reliable energy, great service & strong community impact.RAM-Tech PC SolutionsTrusted IT support and managed IT services provider in Atlanta for 20+ years. They provide expert ITDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

  3. Sep 22

    A Changing Market, A Growing Community

    Send us Fan Mail As Henry County continues to grow and evolve, understanding the people, cultures, and economic forces shaping our community is increasingly important for local businesses. In this episode of Community Convener, Christy Chewning of Central Georgia EMC leads a Community Dialogue with Laura Luker of Visit Henry and Raquel Lavender of Lavender and Associates Real Estate at Keller Williams Realty exploring The Latino Economic Boom. They discuss growing consumer buying power, entrepreneurship, the importance of trust and language access, and what businesses should understand as they work to authentically connect with Latino consumers. Following the conversation, Barbara Ingram, Director of Communications for the Henry County Chamber, joins us for this month's Connecting Point with a reflection on what businesses can take away from the discussion. Then, Laura Luker returns for Tourism Trends as we go Henry Across the Map, exploring some of the cultures that have influenced Henry County and the lasting impact they've had on our food, businesses, experiences, and community. Plus, we'll celebrate the latest accomplishments from Chamber members and get your calendar ready with upcoming events, networking opportunities, ribbon cuttings, and more. From understanding an evolving marketplace to celebrating the cultures that help shape our community, this episode is about recognizing change, creating connections, and embracing the opportunities that come with a growing Henry County. This episode of Community Convener is proudly sponsored by RAM-Tech PC Solutions. Georgia PowerPowered by Georgia Power—committed to reliable energy, great service & strong community impact.RAM-Tech PC SolutionsTrusted IT support and managed IT services provider in Atlanta for 20+ years. They provide expert ITDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

  4. Sep 8

    Child Care: The Workforce Issue We Can't Ignore

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Community Convener, we're looking at child care through a different lens, not simply as a family issue, but as a critical piece of our workforce, economy, and community infrastructure. In our Catalytic Conversation, we sit down with Cori Cain of United Way of Greater Atlanta to explore the impact child care has on families, employers, and economic development. From workforce participation and employee retention to economic mobility and family stability, Cori shares why access to reliable, affordable child care matters to the entire business community, and what it takes to build a stronger child care ecosystem. Then, we're shining our Initiative Highlight on the Chamber's Women's EmPOWER her Coffee Hour Series, a space designed to bring women together for meaningful conversations, professional growth, relationship-building, and shared learning. Clayton Carte with Henry County Government also joins us with the latest SPLOST Update, keeping listeners informed on projects and investments happening throughout Henry County. Plus, we'll share the latest member news, upcoming Chamber events, and more ways to stay connected. This episode of Community Convener is proudly sponsored by RAM-Tech PC Solutions. RAM-Tech PC SolutionsTrusted IT support and managed IT services provider in Atlanta for 20+ years. They provide expert ITGeorgia PowerPowered by Georgia Power—committed to reliable energy, great service & strong community impact.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

  5. Aug 17

    Capital, Confidence, and Opportunity

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Community Convener, we're focused on one of the most important—and often challenging—parts of building a business: accessing the capital needed to start, sustain, and grow. In this month's Community Dialogue, presented by Kaiser Permanente, Christy Chewning of Central Georgia EMC sits down with Mia Pressley, Regional Economic Development Manager with Georgia Power; Jasmine Aimes, Commercial Loan Officer with Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE); and Charles C. Moon, Workplace Banking & Financial Empowerment Leader and Vice President with Truist. Together, they explore Capital Access: Funding the Minority Entrepreneur, breaking down what business owners need to know before seeking funding. From preparing for financing opportunities and developing strong banking relationships to exploring alternative lending resources and strengthening financial literacy, the conversation offers practical insights entrepreneurs can use at every stage of their journey. Following the conversation, Barbara Ingram, Director of Communications for the Henry County Chamber, takes us to the Connecting Point with a reflection and challenge encouraging listeners to turn what they've heard into action. Then, it's time to enjoy a little summer closer to home! Laura Luker, Director of Tourism for Visit Henry, joins us for Tourism Trends to explore staycation opportunities throughout Henry County and remind us that you don't always have to travel far to discover something new. Plus, we'll catch you up on the latest member news, upcoming Chamber events, and more ways to stay connected with the Henry County business community. Georgia PowerPowered by Georgia Power—committed to reliable energy, great service & strong community impact.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

  6. Aug 3

    Honoring Those Who Serve

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Community Convener, we're recognizing the individuals and initiatives that embody service, leadership, and commitment to making Henry County stronger. Barbara Ingram, Director of Communications for the Henry County Chamber, sits down with Thomas Williams of Kaiser Permanente and Leonard Robinson, the Chamber's Membership Director and a United States Marine Corps veteran, for a meaningful conversation about the Chamber's newest initiative—the Henry County Valor Awards. Together, they discuss the inspiration behind the program, the importance of recognizing public service, first responders, and community heroes, and how honoring those who serve helps strengthen the fabric of our community. You'll also hear a special message from Chamber President & CEO Joseph Henning and Chair Carlotta Harrell as they share why the Henry County Valor Awards is an important new tradition and invite the community to celebrate those who have dedicated themselves to serving others. Next, Clayton Carte provides the latest SPLOST update, highlighting infrastructure projects that continue to improve mobility, enhance quality of life, and support Henry County's future growth. Finally, we sit down with former Stockbridge Mayor Anthony Ford, recipient of the Henry County Chamber's W. L. "Billy" Carter Community Service Award. Mayor Ford reflects on a lifetime of public service, the importance of giving back, and the lasting impact that servant leadership can have on a community. Plus, we'll share the latest Chamber news, upcoming events, and opportunities to stay connected with everything happening across Henry County. Georgia PowerPowered by Georgia Power—committed to reliable energy, great service & strong community impact.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

  7. Jul 20

    Innovation through Collaboration

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Community Convener, we're exploring how innovation and collaboration are creating new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and the community throughout Henry County. Leonard Robinson, Director of Membership for the Henry County Chamber, sits down with Tony Eiermann of DaVinci's New York Style Pizza to discuss the launch of the Rolling Bites Initiative. Learn how this exciting collaboration is bringing food truck operators together, strengthening small businesses, and creating new opportunities for community engagement across the region. Next, we celebrate the Chamber's 2025 Young Professional of the Year, Dr. Gabrielle Williams of Gateway Direct Health. Dr. Williams shares how her innovative approach to direct primary care is transforming the traditional patient-physician relationship by prioritizing accessibility, trust, and personalized healthcare. Then, Laura Luker, Director of Tourism, joins us for this month's Tourism Trends segment to discuss the latest developments positioning Henry County as a growing destination for retail, hospitality, and visitor experiences, and what those trends mean for our local economy. In this month's Member Minute, Leonard Robinson catches up with May Ambassador of the Month, Edith Greenwood of The Conception Studio, to recognize her outstanding commitment to serving fellow Chamber members and strengthening the business community. Plus, we'll share the latest Chamber news, upcoming events, and opportunities to stay connected with everything happening across Henry County. Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

  8. Jul 6

    Growing Community, Creating Opportunity

    Send us Fan Mail What does it take to build a stronger community? It starts with collaboration. In this episode of Community Convener, we sit down with local leaders and changemakers who are creating opportunities, strengthening connections, and improving the quality of life across Henry County. This episode features: Alvin Glymph, United Way of Greater Atlanta, discussing housing insecurity and how ALICE data is helping communities better understand and address financial hardship. Judy McMurtry, JM EXCEL Consultant LLC, introducing the Henry Hub and its mission to support the "Business of One" through community, collaboration, and new opportunities. Lisa King DeJesus, King Homecare, joining Chamber Membership Director Leonard Robinson to reflect on her recognition as the April Ambassador of the Month and the value of Chamber engagement. Jonathan Penn, Henry County Parks & Recreation, sharing an inside look at the new Aquatic Center and what residents can expect from one of the county's newest quality-of-life amenities. Whether you're a business owner, community leader, or resident, this episode highlights the partnerships and initiatives helping Henry County thrive. Explore upcoming Chamber events here: https://business.henrycounty.com/events/calendarcatgid/6 Interested in sponsoring an episode? Email tarcher@henrycounty.com Stay connected. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram ☕So grab a coffee, and let's dive in! 🎙️ Community Convener is produced by Henry Chamber Media, bringing you conversations that connect business, community, and leadership throughout Henry County.

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Community Convener is the official podcast of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, where we bring you the voices shaping our business community. This podcast is designed to help you grow, lead, and connect. Each episode features local leaders, updates on Chamber initiatives, upcoming events, and the stories driving Henry County forward. So grab a coffee, and let's dive in!