"Big Tony" Found his path at Chemeketa

Learning, Hustling, and Looking Ahead - Guest Arjay Mendiola

Not every educational journey follows a straight line—and that's exactly what makes it valuable. On this episode of The ChemekeTable Podcast, host JD Shinn sits down with Arjay Mendiola to discuss how learning happens in many different places and for many different reasons. From marketing and entrepreneurship to real estate, Arjay shares how each experience has shaped his path and helped prepare him for the opportunities ahead. Join us for a conversation about growth, ambition, and the lessons that come from embracing a winding road rather than following a predetermined path. #ChemekeTable #Chemeketa #Podcast #EducationJourney #LifelongLearning #Entrepreneurship #Marketing #RealEstate #StudentSuccess #CommunityCollege #CareerGrowth #Leadership #FutureFocused #LearningByDoing

A Local Chamber of Commerce - Partner Episode with Carmelle Bielenberg

In this episode of the ChemekeTable, host JD sits down with Carmelle Bielenberg, Executive Director of the Albany Chamber of Commerce, to explore the vital role chambers play in supporting businesses and strengthening communities. Carmelle breaks down the misconceptions, highlights the behind-the-scenes work, and shares why chambers remain a key driver of local success.#SupportLocalBusiness #CommunityFirst #LocalLeaders #SmallBusinessSupport #EconomicGrowth #StrongerTogether #CommunityVoices #LocalImpact

Holly Nelson talks College Partnerships

On this episode of The ChemekeTable Podcast, host JD Shinn sits down with Holly Nelson from the Executive Team at Chemeketa to explore the true impact of a community college beyond the classroom. From building meaningful partnerships to strengthening local economies and creating opportunities for students, this conversation dives into how colleges serve as powerful connectors within their communities. Hear firsthand how relationships, collaboration, and vision come together to shape student success and community growth in ways you might not expect.

"Big Tony" Found his path at Chemeketa

In this episode of The ChemekeTable Podcast, host JD Shinn sits down with “Big Tony” Blosser—a small-town city councilor whose life changed when he was invited to play basketball and attend Chemeketa Community College. What began as an opportunity on the court became a discovery of purpose, direction, and service. Tony reflects on the life lessons he learned through the game, the lasting impact of his coach Rob Chaves, and how gratitude, mentorship, and community shaped his path from student-athlete to civic leader. This is a powerful conversation about opportunity, believing in others, and how Chemeketa changed the trajectory of a life. https://www.peacefulwarrior.com/ [https://www.peacefulwarrior.com/]

Writing Mortgages and Learning People

Welcome back to The ChemekeTable, where we gather around the table to talk about learning, work, and the real paths people take to get where they are today. On this episode, I’m joined by Buddy Puckett. Buddy’s learning journey didn’t stop at college—like many of us, some of his most impactful lessons came from life itself. By trade, Buddy is a mortgage lender, but at his core he’s someone who deeply cares about people, relationships, and the community he serves. Our conversation goes beyond rates and numbers. We talk about learning through experience, showing up for others, and what it really means to build trust in both business and life. Whether you’re early in your career, changing paths, or simply interested in people who lead with purpose, this is a conversation you’ll want to lean into. Let’s pull up a chair and welcome Buddy Puckett to The ChemekeTable. https://www.chemeketa.edu/locations/center-for-business-industry/ https://branches.guildmortgage.com/or/salem/buddy-puckett-479-wgbp.html