Impact with the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce

International Impact | Pam Broering & Rick Funk

What makes Chamber travel more than just a vacation? In this episode of Impact: The Chamber Podcast, we sit down with Pam Broering of Cruise Adventures and Chamber traveler Rick Funk while filming on location in Greece during our 2026 Chamber Trip. We discuss the value of Chamber travel, the lasting relationships formed throughout the journey, and how experiences like these help strengthen both personal and professional connections back home. The conversation also explores the importance of experiencing different cultures, gaining new perspectives, and how traveling together creates opportunities for meaningful networking and lifelong friendships. From exploring Greece to building stronger connections within the Wayne County community, this episode highlights the lasting impact of traveling together. Tune in to hear firsthand about the friendships, business relationships, and unforgettable experiences that make Chamber travel so unique. Subscribe to catch new episodes each month! Learn more about the Chamber: https://www.wcareachamber.org/

Course Impact | Blair Shadday & Bart Wolfe

What goes into running a successful country club and how do you continue evolving while still creating a welcoming experience for members and guests? In this episode of Impact: The Chamber Podcast, we sit down with the golf pro, Blair Shadday and general manager, Bart Wolfe of Forest Hills Country Club to talk about the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the club running smoothly and the role it plays within the Wayne County community. We discuss recent upgrades and improvements being made to both the course and clubhouse, the importance of staff longevity and strong team culture, and the variety of experiences and amenities Forest Hills offers as a country club. The conversation also dives into what it takes to successfully coordinate large golf outings and events, including community tournaments like the Chamber Golf Classic, and how attention to detail helps create a seamless experience for participants. From hospitality and operations to community connection and recreation, this episode highlights the many moving pieces that come together to make Forest Hills a staple in the community. Tune in to hear more about leadership, teamwork, and the impact of creating memorable experiences both on and off the course. Subscribe to catch new episodes each month! Learn more about the Chamber: https://www.wcareachamber.org/

Future Impact | Isabella Markward & Katie Alyea

How do partnerships between education and local businesses create real opportunities for students—and what does that impact look like in action? In this episode of Impact: The Chamber Podcast, we sit down with Isabella Markward, a junior at Northeastern High School, and Katie Alyea, Regional Marketing Manager at 3Rivers Federal Credit Union and Chamber board member, to talk about the Student Future Success (SFS) program and the role businesses play in shaping the next generation. We dive into how SFS is connecting students to real-world experiences, the importance of business involvement in workforce development, and how organizations like 3Rivers are making a difference both inside and outside the workplace. We also highlight 3Rivers’ recent feature in our Behind the Business series and what sets them apart as a community-focused organization. From student perspectives to business leadership, this conversation showcases how collaboration is helping build a stronger, more connected Wayne County. Tune in to hear how programs like SFS are creating opportunities, supporting local businesses, and empowering students for the future.

Modern Impact | Alyssa Roberts, Shawntel Baker & Becca Vance

What does a more modern approach to local business support look like and how is the Chamber evolving to meet those needs? In this episode of Impact: The Chamber Podcast, we sit down with Alyssa Roberts, Director of Membership and Education, along with Becca Vance from Cope Environmental Center to talk about the Chamber’s newly updated Wayne County Cash gift card program and what it means for both businesses and the community. We’re also joined by Shawntel Baker, Director of Employer Engagement, to dive into the Student Future Success (SFS) program and how partnerships like Cope’s are helping connect students to real-world opportunities. From modernizing local spending to building stronger workforce pipelines, this conversation highlights how innovation and collaboration are shaping the future of Wayne County. Tune in to learn how these initiatives support local businesses, empower students, and create a more connected community. Subscribe to catch new episodes each month! Learn more about the Chamber: https://www.wcareachamber.org/

Strategic Impact | AJ Sickmann & Eric & Brad VanVleet

What does the future of the Chamber look like and how will it impact members in 2026? In this episode of Impact: The Chamber Podcast, we sit down with Board Chair AJ Sickmann and Eric and Brad VanVleet to discuss the vision and strategic priorities shaping the year ahead, along with a new health insurance plan offered exclusively for Chamber members. From leadership planning to practical member benefits, this conversation highlights how strategy and innovation work together to strengthen Wayne County’s business community. Tune in to hear what’s coming next, how it supports local employers, and why forward-thinking leadership matters. Subscribe to catch new episodes each month! Learn more about the Chamber: https://www.wcareachamber.org/