Business, Better Together

The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County

Business is better when we do it together. The Business, Better Together Podcast, presented by The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County, brings you conversations with the business owners, community leaders, innovators, and changemakers helping shape the future of Southwest Riverside County. Hosted by Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis, each episode goes beyond the business card to explore the stories, ideas, challenges, and experiences behind the people making an impact throughout our region.

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 11: Justin Clifton - Leadership, Innovation & Building a Thriving Murrieta

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 11, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Justin Clifton, City Manager for the City of Murrieta and 2026 City Manager of the Year honoree, for an engaging conversation about leadership, innovation, economic development, and what it really takes to build a thriving community. With a unique career spanning communities in Colorado, Arizona, and California, including Sedona and Palm Springs, Justin shares his unexpected journey into city management and the lessons he's learned along the way. From navigating complex community challenges to balancing the needs of residents, elected officials, and city staff, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at the responsibilities and decisions that shape a city's future. Patrick and Justin also explore how Murrieta is embracing innovation and technology to improve government efficiency and better serve its residents and businesses. Justin discusses the City's approach to artificial intelligence, including the creation of an internal AI Champions team, opportunities to streamline permitting and development processes, and the importance of adapting to emerging technologies while maintaining public trust. The conversation also highlights economic development and regional collaboration throughout Southwest Riverside County, including the strong partnerships between neighboring cities, the Chamber, and the local business community. They discuss the future of the Murrieta Innovation Center (MIC), supporting startups and entrepreneurs, attracting new businesses, and creating more high-quality jobs close to home. Plus, Justin shares why a thriving business community is essential to a thriving city, and how strong local businesses contribute to the services, amenities, and quality of life that make Murrieta a great place to live and work. Whether you're a business owner, community leader, or resident interested in the future of our region, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and the power of working together to build stronger communities! 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly, featuring a different guest and conversations with the business owners, leaders, innovators, and community partners shaping our region. 🔔 Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you don't miss the next episode! Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together. #BusinessBetterTogether #ChamberSRC #SouthwestRiversideCounty #JustinClifton #CityOfMurrieta #EconomicDevelopment #CommunityLeadership #Innovation #MurrietaInnovationCenter #BusinessPodcast

  2. Nov 2

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 10: Colton Telford – Turning an Everyday Problem Into a Thriving Startup

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 10, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Colton Telford, CEO and Co-Founder of Oili, for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, innovation, resilience, and what it takes to turn a simple idea into a growing business. Colton shares his remarkable entrepreneurial journey, from overcoming early challenges and building a career in the corporate world to launching Oili, a technology-driven company that's reimagining the traditional oil change experience by bringing convenient, on-demand service directly to customers. What started as a solution to an everyday frustration has grown into an innovative business with ambitious plans for expansion. Patrick and Colton dive into the realities of building a startup, including the importance of grit, adaptability, and perseverance when things don't go as planned. From personally completing oil changes in the company's early days to refining the technology and operations behind Oili, Colton shares why staying committed to your vision and learning from every challenge are essential to entrepreneurial success. They also explore how company culture and exceptional customer service have become central to Oili's mission. Colton explains why building a team that genuinely cares about making customers' lives easier is just as important as developing innovative technology, and how creating memorable experiences can set a business apart. Plus, Colton reflects on Oili's recognition as the 2024 Southwest Regional Fast Pitch Competition winner and a 2025 Inland Empire Spirit of Entrepreneur Awards nominee, the lessons he's learned about growing a company responsibly, and the role that The Chamber, local partnerships, and the Southwest Riverside County business community have played in supporting his entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a small business owner, or someone interested in how innovation can transform everyday experiences, this episode offers valuable insights into building a business, overcoming obstacles, and creating something that makes a meaningful difference. 🚗 Learn more about Oili: https://oili.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly, featuring a different guest and conversations with the business owners, leaders, innovators, and community partners shaping our region. 🔔 Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you don't miss the next episode! Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together.

  3. Oct 26

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 9: Volker Jaeckel - Turning Great Ideas into Great Businesses

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 9, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Volker Jaeckel, Business and Executive Coach with Focal Point Business Coaching and Innovation Consultant at the Murrieta Innovation Center (MIC), for an insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, business strategy, and what it really takes to turn a great idea into a successful business. With decades of international experience in sales, marketing, and business development, Volker shares some of the most common challenges entrepreneurs face, from overcoming the fear of failure and perfectionism to developing the confidence, grit, and mindset needed to succeed. Together, Patrick and Volker explore why having a great idea is only the beginning, and why taking action is often the most important step toward success. They also take a closer look at the Murrieta Innovation Center's PitchAscent program, where Volker works with entrepreneurs and innovators to strengthen their business presentations, communicate complex ideas more effectively, and confidently pitch to potential investors. From simplifying your message to understanding your audience, Volker shares valuable insights that apply to businesses of all sizes. Plus, Patrick and Volker dive into the importance of effective communication, emotional intelligence, and leadership, including how understanding different personality and behavioral styles can transform relationships with customers, employees, and business partners. The conversation also explores what it takes to build a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Southwest Riverside County, why mentorship and collaboration are essential to business growth, and how connecting with the right people can help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and reach their next level of success. Whether you're launching a startup, leading an established business, or looking for ways to grow as a leader, this episode is packed with practical advice, fresh perspectives, and encouragement to keep moving forward! 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly, featuring a different guest and conversations with the business owners, leaders, innovators, and community partners shaping our region. 🔔 Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you don't miss the next episode! Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together. #BusinessBetterTogether #ChamberSRC #SouthwestRiversideCounty #VolkerJaeckel #FocalPointBusinessCoaching #MurrietaInnovationCenter #Entrepreneurship #BusinessLeadership #BusinessCoaching #BusinessPodcast

  4. Oct 19

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 8: Ryan Miller - What's Next for Wildomar?

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 8, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Ryan Miller, Economic Development Manager for the City of Wildomar, for an exciting conversation about economic growth, new development opportunities, regional collaboration, and the future of Wildomar. Ryan shares his background in both the private and public sectors, what attracted him to Wildomar, and the opportunities he sees for one of Southwest Riverside County's growing communities. Together, Patrick and Ryan explore how the City is working to attract new businesses, support existing employers, and encourage responsible development while preserving Wildomar's unique character and history. They also dive into some of the exciting projects and opportunities shaping Wildomar's future, including the continued expansion of the healthcare industry surrounding Inland Valley Hospital, new retail and commercial developments, and the City's vision for creating a walkable, vibrant downtown destination where residents, businesses, and visitors can connect. Plus, Ryan offers a behind-the-scenes look at how economic development works, the importance of collaboration between neighboring cities, and why community input plays such an important role in shaping Wildomar's next chapter. From attracting new investment to creating jobs and strengthening the local economy, there's plenty to be excited about! Whether you're a business owner, resident, investor, or simply interested in what's next for Southwest Riverside County, this episode offers valuable insight into Wildomar's growth, opportunities, and vision for the future. 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly, featuring a different guest and conversations with the business owners, leaders, innovators, and community partners shaping our region. ▶️ Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! 🔔 Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you don't miss the next episode! Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together.

  5. Oct 12

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 7: Julie Ngo - Building Business Through Community

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 7, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Julie Ngo, State Farm Owner/Agent and longtime community leader, for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, community involvement, giving back, and why building a successful business goes hand in hand with investing in the community around you. Julie shares her journey from working in corporate insurance to opening her own State Farm agency in Old Town Temecula in 2006, reflecting on the challenges of becoming a business owner, the incredible transformation of Old Town over the past two decades, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who understand the entrepreneurial journey. Patrick and Julie also dive into her extensive involvement with local nonprofits and community organizations, including Rose Again Foundation, the Old Town Temecula Association, and the Temecula Fire Safe Council. Julie shares what drives her passion for service, why she stepped up to help preserve a nonprofit serving vulnerable children and families, and how giving back has become one of the most meaningful parts of her success. Plus, they explore the importance of collaboration between businesses, Chambers, and community organizations, the lessons Julie has learned about adapting to change, and why protecting what you've worked so hard to build is essential for entrepreneurs. From the power of mentorship and meaningful relationships to the belief that great communities are built by people willing to step up and do the work, Julie's story is a reminder that business success isn't just measured by what you build, but by the difference you make along the way. 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly, featuring a different guest and conversations with the business owners, leaders, innovators, and community partners shaping our region. ▶️ Watch on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZtvzD672wS4) or 🎧 listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! 🔔 Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you don't miss the next episode! Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together.

  6. Oct 5

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 6: Aaron Adams - Leading Temecula’s Growth & Future

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 6, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Aaron Adams, City Manager for the City of Temecula, for a conversation about leadership, public service, economic growth, and the evolution of one of Southwest Riverside County’s most dynamic communities.Aaron shares insights from his more than 30-year career with the City of Temecula—a journey that began as an intern in 1995 and eventually led to his appointment as City Manager in 2012. Along the way, he has helped guide Temecula through tremendous growth while maintaining a focus on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life. Patrick and Aaron dive into what it takes to lead a growing city, the importance of long-term planning and strong partnerships, and the role local government plays in creating an environment where businesses, residents, and communities can thrive. They also reflect on Aaron’s approach to leadership, the lessons he has learned throughout his career, and the legacy of service he has helped build in Temecula. In 2026, Aaron was recognized by the California City Management Foundation as City Manager of the Year, honoring his leadership and lasting impact on both Temecula and the city management profession. 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly, featuring a different guest and conversations with the business owners, leaders, innovators, and community partners shaping our region. ▶️ Watch on YouTube or 🎧 listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! 🔔 Subscribe or follow Business, Better Together so you don’t miss the next episode! Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together. #BusinessBetterTogether #ChamberSWRC #SouthwestRiversideCounty #CityOfTemecula #Temecula #Leadership #EconomicDevelopment #PublicService #BusinessPodcast

  7. Sep 28

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 5: Adam A. Ruiz - Why Staying Informed Matters

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 5, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Adam A. Ruiz of Rincon Strategies, who also serves as Chair of the Chamber’s Public Policy Council, for a conversation about public policy, advocacy, and why staying informed matters for the business community. Adam brings experience in legislative affairs and navigating California’s policy landscape. In this episode, Patrick and Adam explore the connection between government and business, how public policy decisions can impact employers and our regional economy, and the role the Chamber plays in keeping businesses informed and engaged on the issues that matter to them. The Chamber’s current public policy priorities span areas including jobs, infrastructure, land use, governance, economic development, tourism, and artificial intelligence. Whether you closely follow legislation or simply want a better understanding of why advocacy matters to your business, this conversation offers an inside look at an important part of the Chamber’s work—and the value of ensuring the business community has a voice in the policy process. ▶️ Watch Episode 5 here on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SCjsB8NK6LY Be sure to subscribe on YouTube or follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode! A new episode of Business, Better Together drops every week, featuring a different guest and a new conversation. Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together. #BusinessBetterTogether #ChamberSWRC #SouthwestRiversideCounty #PublicPolicy #BusinessAdvocacy #RinconStrategies #BusinessPodcast

  8. Sep 21

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 4: Brandon Young - Building the Future of Life Sciences

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.comWelcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️In Episode 4, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Brandon Young of Murrieta Genomics for a conversation about entrepreneurship, innovation, and the growing life sciences community right here in Southwest Riverside County.Brandon shares more about his journey, the work happening at Murrieta Genomics, and what it takes to build and support innovative companies in an industry that is constantly evolving. Patrick and Brandon also discuss the opportunities surrounding life sciences in our region, the importance of creating an environment where entrepreneurs can connect and grow, and what the future could hold for this emerging sector.It’s a great conversation about the people, ideas, and partnerships helping foster innovation close to home—and why building a strong ecosystem for entrepreneurs can have an impact far beyond a single business.▶️ Watch Episode 4 here on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ye9Auj-F3AsBe sure to subscribe on YouTube and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode! A new episode of Business, Better Together drops every week, featuring a different guest and a new conversation.Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together.

  9. Sep 11

    Business, Better Together | Ep. 3: Jon Levell - Leadership & Healthcare with Murrieta's Mayor

    Special thanks to Endeavor Video Marketing for providing the studio and production support for this podcast. Learn more at studio.endeavorvm.com Welcome back to Business, Better Together, the podcast from The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County! 🎙️ In Episode 3, Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis sits down with Jon Levell, Mayor of the City of Murrieta, for a conversation about leadership, healthcare, and serving the community. Jon shares his perspective on leadership and the experiences that have shaped his approach both professionally and in public service. Patrick and Jon discuss his work in the healthcare industry, his role as Mayor of Murrieta, and what it means to lead and serve a growing community. From navigating leadership in healthcare to helping guide the future of Murrieta, this conversation offers a look at the lessons, experiences, and relationships that have influenced Jon throughout his career—and the importance of strong leadership in building thriving organizations and communities. ▶️  Listen to Episode 3 now, and be sure to subscribe and turn on notifications! A new episode of Business, Better Together drops every week, featuring a different guest and a new conversation. Connect. Learn. Grow. Business is better together.

  • 9 Episodes

About

Business is better when we do it together. The Business, Better Together Podcast, presented by The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County, brings you conversations with the business owners, community leaders, innovators, and changemakers helping shape the future of Southwest Riverside County. Hosted by Chamber CEO Patrick Ellis, each episode goes beyond the business card to explore the stories, ideas, challenges, and experiences behind the people making an impact throughout our region.

Information

  • Creator
    The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Chamber of Southwest Riverside County
  • Show Website
    Business, Better Together