Torch Talk

Lindsey Chupp
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BUSINESS

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. 5D AGO

    Stone & Strategy

    In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey Chupp sits down with Rick Mast, founder of Casa di Sassi, to talk about what it really looks like to build a manufacturing business rooted in craftsmanship, relationships, and long-term thinking. Rick shares the full story behind Casa di Sassi, from his early days in the stone veneer industry to launching his own company, acquiring Casa di Sassi, and eventually building a state-of-the-art production facility in Apple Creek. Rick explains how Casa di Sassi blends natural stone artistry with precision manufacturing, including how profiles are developed, why real stone is still central to the process, and what goes into sourcing materials through hands-on “rock hunts.” He also walks through how the company balances timeless design with subtle shifts in trends, while staying focused on quality over quick wins. The conversation dives into leadership and scale, including how Rick has intentionally built a team that doesn’t rely on him day to day, the role of automation in growing without constantly adding staff, and why morale, trust, and strong customer relationships matter more than titles or control. Rick also shares his perspective on integrity, handling mistakes, and building partnerships that last beyond transactions. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How Casa di Sassi grew from a small venture into a national stone veneer manufacturerWhy real stone, craftsmanship, and design discipline still matterThe role of automation and efficiency in sustainable manufacturing growthBuilding a leadership team that makes the business resilientWhy long-term relationships define success more than short-term gainsThis episode offers an honest look at manufacturing, leadership, and what it takes to build a business designed to last.

    33 min

  2. JAN 20

    Ask The Right Questions

    In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey Chupp sits down with David Beasley, recently retired Goodyear executive and Chair of C12 Northeast Ohio, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, faith, and purpose in the marketplace. After nearly 40 years with Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, David reflects on the lessons learned from a long corporate career and how those experiences shaped the work he’s doing today with business owners. David shares his journey from starting in tire sales to leading the North American truck tire business, including the pivotal season he spent in China that challenged him personally, professionally, and spiritually. That experience reshaped how he viewed leadership, success, and what it means to serve God through work, not just after retirement. The conversation explores the loneliness many business owners feel, the importance of peer relationships, and how C12 creates space for honest conversation, accountability, and action. David also explains how strategic planning, mission, vision, and values play a role in long-term business health, especially for faith-based leaders. In this episode, you’ll hear about: David’s career journey and leadership lessons from GoodyearHow faith and business can be integrated, not separatedWhy business owners often feel isolated and how peer groups helpThe role of strategic planning, mission, and core valuesWhat success looks like when people matter more than resultsThis episode offers a grounded, encouraging look at leadership that prioritizes people, purpose, and long-term impact, both inside and outside the workplace.

    41 min

  3. JAN 13

    Core Value Culture

    In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey Chupp sits down with Holly Simms, Director of Quality and Distribution at CrowWorks, for an in-depth conversation about growth, adaptability, and building strong teams inside a fast-moving manufacturing business. Holly shares her non-linear career path, from sports management and event operations to holding six different roles at CrowWorks over seven years. She walks through how each role shaped her leadership style and gave her a deeper understanding of operations, client experience, and quality control inside a growing organization. The conversation dives into what it takes to scale a company without losing culture. Holly explains how CrowWorks uses clear core values, open communication, and flexibility to support team members, especially in an environment where change is constant. She also offers practical insight into hiring for adaptability, managing change fatigue, and creating systems that support both people and performance. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Holly’s career evolution across multiple departments at CrowWorksWhy adaptability and curiosity are essential in growing businessesHow core values guide hiring, feedback, and team cultureBalancing structure and flexibility in operations and leadershipWhat small, people-first practices make a big difference for teamsThis episode is a thoughtful look at leadership inside a changing organization, and a reminder that growth doesn’t require a perfect plan, just a willingness to learn, adapt, and invest in people.

    33 min

  4. JAN 6

    Blaze 2026

    In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey sits down with Julia Kooser, Director of Client Success, to unpack what the Blaze Network is and why it matters heading into 2026. Blaze isn’t another marketing trend or side project. It’s the educational and connection-driven hub behind Fierce, built to support business owners and leaders beyond execution alone. The conversation walks through how Blaze brings education, community, and practical tools together in one place. Julia breaks down each part of the network, how they connect, and what business owners can expect in the year ahead as Blaze continues to grow. In this episode, you’ll hear about: What the Blaze Network is and why it existsHow Torch Talk fits into the bigger Blaze ecosystemMonthly Spark Sessions and their focus on actionable learningIgnite Insights and why print and digital education still matterHow Blaze is creating real connections among local business leadersWhat’s coming next, including the Blaze Business Expo in 2026This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Blaze is designed to support growth, learning, and leadership for businesses at every stage.

    11 min

  5. 12/30/2025

    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

  6. 12/23/2025

    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

  7. 12/16/2025

    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

  8. 12/09/2025

    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
See All (30)

Trailer

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
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Torch Talk
  • Show Website
    Torch Talk