Kanawha Valley Hustlers

Today, I talk with Hunter Ferrari, a real estate investor focused on rentals. Hunter started his company in August 2020 and quickly expanded, despite initial challenges with securing financing. He manages long-term rentals, a couple of Airbnbs, and is currently focused on mid-term rentals. Hunter values the freedom of entrepreneurship, avoiding the 9-to-5 grind, and enjoys the flexibility to spend time with his family. He admits to struggling with routines and prefers a task-focused approach, tackling big jobs first. We discuss the importance of systems and delegation, with Hunter aiming to establish clear processes in 2024. He’s also on the lookout for new property deals, always hustling for growth.

On today’s episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I’m chatting with Sam Wilkes, an environmental scientist and project manager with the Thrasher Group, to discuss productivity. Sam explains that productivity is about getting things done efficiently and effectively, distinguishing it from merely being busy. He highlights the importance of delegation, matching tasks with team strengths, and planning for long-term goals, which is crucial in environmental science where projects like permitting and site remediation take time. Sam advises embracing new challenges and continuously learning, as the field requires adaptability due to its ever-changing nature. He also stresses the value of idea-sharing within a team to uncover the best solutions. Our conversation underscores that true productivity involves strategic planning, collaboration, and a commitment to efficiency.

In this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I meet Kim Knopf, a franchise business consultant organizing webinars on franchise opportunities. You can find out more and register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_85jucX3PQTe5lh3dM5gVQg We discuss how franchises offer proven systems and stability, making the entrepreneurial journey less daunting. Kim's background includes running a successful mattress business for 35 years, and she now helps others invest in their futures. The ideal audience for her webinars includes those in the signage or marketing space looking to diversify their services. Kim believes the franchising market in West Virginia is promising. She advises aspiring business owners to network and stay informed about industry trends. Kim’s passion for helping people find the right franchise opportunities is clear.

Today on the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I chat with Joslyn Barnhart at D.T. Prime in Charleston. Joslyn is the member of the month for Up Next Charlie West. She works as the Communities In Schools liaison for the First Lady, Cathy Justice, focusing on communications and dropout prevention programs. They also place therapy dogs in each county to help schools and communities. Joslyn is also a live events board member for Mountaineer Media, which celebrates West Virginia’s stories and businesses. They host an annual golf tournament and a networking event in June. This year, it will feature panelists and a concert by Philip Bowen. We discuss productivity, where Joslyn differentiates between being busy and being productive. She advises breaking down long-term goals into daily steps to avoid burnout. For collaboration, she stresses the importance of transparency and open communication.

Today on the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I'm joined by Wade Murray from the Accenture, delving into the world of financial services. Wade's all about helping families secure their legacies through life insurance. We discuss the importance of staying organized and productive, emphasizing results over mere busyness. Wade shares his strategy for breaking down long-term goals into daily tasks and stresses the value of building genuine connections to achieve success.

I'm Joe Justice, walking through Coonskin Park, and today I'm talking about the often overlooked key to turning daily efforts into powerful achievements: vision. Being outside, sharing ideas, and thinking deeply can help develop our thoughts. I urge you to follow and share this podcast with others who might benefit. Last week, we discussed concrete steps, and today, we’re focusing on broad concepts. Balancing abstract thinking with concrete actions is crucial. Vision is your guiding light, the aim that ensures your daily grind translates into achieved goals. It’s not a to-do list or an ambition like wanting to be rich or happy. Vision is something clear and describable. To illustrate, I share visions from companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Tesla, and Lego, showing how their overarching purposes guide every action. My vision for the Joe Justice Organization is to reach, captivate, and grow with direct response video. This vision directs all my decisions, from equipment purchases to daily tasks. I encourage you to take time today to define your vision. Share it with me; I’d love to hear it.

In today's Kanawha Valley Hustlers walk and talk, I'm at Little Creek Park, offering practical advice to move from goal-setting to action-taking. I emphasize the importance of putting goals on your calendar and treating them as non-negotiable tasks. Comparing yourself to others only hinders progress; start where you are and focus on what you can achieve. Whether it's learning guitar or hitting the gym, consistency is key. Distractions are abundant, but blocking them out is crucial for success. Remember, it's not about following someone else's path; it's about finding what works for you and sticking with it. Share your journey, support others, and let's make progress together.

Today, I'm taking you on a walk through Wine Cellar Park to share a game-changing idea: nature walks. In less than 30 minutes a day, they can boost productivity, elevate mood, and reduce stress. Scientifically proven, these walks stimulate creativity, making them a powerhouse for problem-solving and idea generation. I break down the left brain/right brain dynamic, emphasizing the importance of balancing routine with novelty. Our modern world is left-brain dominant, but nature injects much-needed creativity into our lives. So, I challenge you: commit to a daily 20-minute nature walk. Share this podcast with friends and family, and let's spread the joy of walking in nature. Together, we can hustle smarter, happier, and with a big, beautiful smile.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I sit down with Jordan Crist, one of the masterminds behind Building Appalachia. Jordan shares his insights on revitalizing communities in West Virginia through real estate investment. He emphasizes the importance of meeting customers where they are, both online and offline, and tailoring solutions to their needs. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to staying ahead in the market, and Jordan's practical approach focuses on solving problems and delighting customers at every step. Building Appalachia isn't just about business; it's about building homes and fostering community. Overall, it's a testament to the power of hustle, innovation, and community impact in the world of real estate.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I sit down with Marian from the Kanawha County Public Library to uncover the hustle behind the scenes. Marian reveals the meticulous process of selecting and purchasing over 2000 books monthly, alongside a plethora of other materials and services the library offers. From meeting rooms to an Idea Lab equipped with 3D printers, the library is a hub of creativity and community connection. Marian shares her journey from reference librarian to her current role, navigating the challenges of a larger organization with warmth and dedication. Reflecting on her time in the Kanawha Valley, Marian highlights the friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community. As we wrap up, it's clear that libraries are more than just shelves of books—they're vibrant centers of learning and creativity, powered by passionate individuals like Marian. So, next time you visit your local library, remember the hustle behind the scenes and show your appreciation to the dedicated folks making it all happen.

In this episode, I chat with Rod Blackstone, the community ambassador for the Charleston Dirty Birds. Rod shares insights into how minor league baseball embraces innovation in marketing, from introducing events like African-American Heritage Night to listening to customer feedback for continuous improvement. We discuss the importance of knowing your audience and tailoring offerings to meet their needs, all while staying dynamic and open to new ideas. Rod's approach highlights the power of creativity and adaptability in business, reminding us to always strive for improvement. Whether it's engaging fans or attracting sponsors, Rod's strategies emphasize the value of innovation and customer satisfaction.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I chat with Jerreyanne Jeffries, a marketing expert focusing on local businesses, particularly restaurants. We discuss leveraging the energy of spring for renewal and growth, emphasizing the importance of understanding and meeting clients where they are in the diverse Kanawha Valley market. Jerreyanne highlights the significance of customer delight at every stage of the journey, stressing open communication and personalized service. We also delve into the ever-evolving nature of marketing, with Jerreyanne sharing insights on continuous learning and adaptation. Overall, our conversation underscores the resilience and innovation inherent in the Kanawha Valley hustler spirit.

In today's episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers Podcast, I sit down with Joshua Higginbotham, a candidate for agriculture commissioner in West Virginia. We discuss the role of the commissioner, emphasizing the importance of education and retaining young talent in agriculture. Josh shares insights into the challenges facing family farms, including the aging demographic and the rise of corporate farming. Despite these hurdles, he sees potential in agritourism and emphasizes the need for innovation and technology in farming. Josh encourages aspiring farmers to start small and provides resources for those interested. His passion for agriculture and commitment to the future of West Virginia are evident throughout our conversation. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just beginning, Josh's vision of a vibrant agricultural sector is truly inspiring.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I chat with Erin Noon, the Communications and Events Coordinator for the Charleston Area Alliance. We discuss leveraging the energy of spring for business growth, emphasizing the importance of making connections within the community. Erin emphasizes the need for businesses to understand their target market and tailor their offerings accordingly, highlighting the significance of strong communication and active listening. We delve into the challenges of navigating diverse communication styles in our evolving market, stressing the importance of flexibility and exploration of various channels. Erin shares strategies for ensuring customer delight and adapting to the ever-changing landscape, emphasizing continuous learning and adaptation.

In this episode, I chat with Doug Skaff outside the Charleston newspaper building, where he shares his journey of rescuing the Charleston Gazette-Mail from bankruptcy. As president of HD Media and a man with multiple entrepreneurial ventures, Doug's story is one of seizing opportunities and making dreams real. He emphasizes the importance of ideas, teamwork, and customer satisfaction in every endeavor. From starting student clubs to running for secretary of state, Doug's passion for serving his community shines through. His insights into politics and business are both practical and inspiring, reminding us to hustle hard and always listen to the needs of our customers. As we wrap up, Doug's optimism and determination leave a lasting impression, urging us to embrace every opportunity with a smile and a drive to make a difference.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I interview Hunter Wilkes, a 17-year-old high school senior eager to learn from seasoned professionals. Hunter shares his insights on effective marketing techniques, emphasizing the importance of technology and social media for reaching a wider audience. He highlights the need for inclusivity and openness in fostering a productive environment, drawing from his own experiences. When it comes to achieving long-term goals, Hunter advocates for learning from mentors who have already succeeded. He also discusses effective leadership philosophies, citing the EDGE method from his time in the Boy Scouts. Hunter stresses the value of professional relationships, recommending openness to criticism and the importance of finding a mentor. Overall, Hunter's wisdom and perspective offer valuable lessons for hustlers of all ages, reminding us to embrace innovation, inclusivity, and mentorship on our journey to success.

In today's episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I caught up with my friend Tristan Leavitt, who leads the nonprofit Empower Oversight. Tristan is dedicated to helping federal government employees blow the whistle on waste, fraud, and abuse. Despite legal protections, whistleblowers face challenges, and Tristan's expertise in this area ensures they receive support. We discuss the intricacies of whistleblower protection and the importance of remaining nonpartisan in such work. Tristan's commitment to truth and accountability shines through as he shares stories of individuals standing up against powerful institutions. Beyond his nonprofit work, Tristan is running for the House of Delegates, focusing on job creation, education improvement, and education freedom. He's also involved in micro-schooling initiatives, advocating for individualized learning experiences. Throughout our conversation, Tristan's passion for making a difference in the Kanawha Valley community is palpable, and his dedication to transparency and accountability is truly inspiring.

In today's episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with William J. McCormick, he does things the William J Way. Will shared his insights on effective marketing strategies, emphasizing the power of client testimonials and memorable catchphrases. We delved into the importance of fostering a positive business culture through the golden rule and exceeding expectations. Will's approach to setting and achieving goals involves regular evaluation and adaptation, ensuring continued growth and success. He embraces humility and continuous learning as key tenets of his leadership philosophy, stressing the importance of surrounding oneself with mentors. Lastly, Will highlights the value of building professional relationships beyond one's industry, drawing inspiration from diverse sources. Overall, Will's entrepreneurial spirit, grounded in integrity and adaptability, serves as a testament to the principles of success in today's dynamic market.

DISCLAIMER: The appearance of any politician as a guest on the Kanawha Valley Hustlers Podcast does not constitute an endorsement or promotion of their political ideology, party affiliation, or policies. We extend an open invitation to politicians from all backgrounds to participate in discussions on our show. In this episode, I chat with Derrick Evans, a real estate entrepreneur turned political candidate. Despite his political aspirations, our conversation veers into the realm of business development. Derrick shares his journey from being a schoolteacher to diving headfirst into the world of real estate investing with his wife. We discuss the importance of safeguarding individual freedoms and liberties, a driving force behind Derrick's foray into politics. He emphasizes the pressing concerns of inflation and border security, issues resonating with communities across the nation. Derrick offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the significance of legitimizing their ventures and building relationships with local bankers. Amidst the hustle of campaigning and business pursuits, he underscores the importance of family and balance. Overall, Derrick's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion, serving as inspiration for fellow hustlers navigating their own entrepreneurial journeys.

In today's episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I chat with Hanna, a newcomer in town diving into the world of public relations and government affairs. We discuss the importance of niche marketing, emphasizing genuine connections to drive growth through word-of-mouth and social media. Hanna stresses the significance of open communication in fostering a positive workplace culture, highlighting the need for all voices to be heard. She shares her strategy for setting and achieving long-term goals, advocating for accountability and a strong support system. Leadership, according to Hanna, hinges on understanding and respecting your audience, rather than simply asserting authority. Lastly, she offers valuable advice on building and maintaining professional relationships, emphasizing the power of an open mind and a willingness to engage with others. As we wrap up, Hanna leaves us with a reminder that Charleston is full of opportunities for connection and growth.

Hey, Joe Justice here on the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast. This week, post-Thanksgiving, I'm diving into the marketing legend of the Masters of the Universe toy line. Mattel missed out on Star Wars, so they went all in on a mishmash of barbarians, swords, lasers, and spaceships. No grand plan, just throwing ideas and seeing what sticks. "I have the power" became the mantra, resonating with boys craving empowerment. The result? A seemingly illogical toy line that struck gold. Mattel avoided overthinking and embraced imperfection. No paralysis by analysis. Masters of the Universe became a cultural phenomenon, a testament to the power of trying, failing fast, and adapting. The lesson? Don't fear imperfection; take risks, try ideas, and adapt quickly. It worked for Mattel, and the success echoes even today. Keep hustling, folks. Joe Justice, signing off. Like, share, subscribe – you know the drill. Bye for now!

Hey, it's Joe Justice, host of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast. Today, I'm diving into a fascinating marketing story from the 1920s. Charles Atlas, a bodybuilder in a pre-bodybuilding era, faced challenges in a changing post-industrial world. Despite initial success, he wasn't hitting the heights he aimed for until he teamed up with marketing genius Charles Roman. Atlas's physique was impressive, but Roman saw the potential to market beyond the typical fitness audience. They introduced the Dynamic Tension system, rebranded Atlas as the former "97 pound weakling," and strategically targeted comic book readers – boys aspiring to strength and heroism. The unconventional approach worked, propelling Atlas to household name status. The key takeaway? Know your target market. Understanding who wants your product is crucial. As we head into 2024, remember: Embrace your target market, work with them, and watch your growth soar. This is Joe Justice, reminding you to hustle hard, hustle smart, and always hustle with a smile. Bye-bye for now.

I'm Joe Justice, and at our latest business after hours event, hosted by the Tech Park and Dow, we delved into festive hypotheticals. Nicole Christian kicked things off, detailing the networking and business discussions at the West Virginia Regional Technology Park. She emphasized that prospective attendees can easily register at CharlestonAreaAlliance.org. Matt Ballard expressed his preference for hardworking elves, citing their strong work ethic, while Jordan Crist envisioned Santa Claus handling all holiday duties. Sunny Kalwar opted for the tooth fairy's stealth for covert operations, and Stephanie Roark chose the Easter Bunny for creative money hiding. Tina White envisioned Santa Claus as Providence Insurance's marketing rep, while Clark McCoy saw him managing site buildings. Ron Lovins threw a curveball, choosing the legendary Andre the Giant for personal protection. As the host, I wrapped up the evening, sharing my mythical hire—the hustling elves. It was a night of creative holiday hires and spirited conversations, reminding us all to hustle hard, smart, and with a smile.

Hey, it's Joe Justice at the LaBelle Theater in South Charleston with Vicki Vaughn from the CVB. We're diving into the town's vibrant scene—free movies at LaBelle, December concerts with Metro Band, and the much-anticipated Christmas parade on December 2nd. Vicki spills the details on parade logistics, from Santa's float to street closures. Get ready for a festive December 1st at 5:30 PM, with a tree lighting ceremony at the mound featuring Santa, free hot chocolate, and the Metro Band. Don't miss the chance for kids to win the world's largest Christmas stocking at the library. South Charleston isn't just a holiday wonderland; it's a year-round gem. The CVB showcases museums, restaurants, and unique spots, making it a must-visit. Swing by LaBelle Theater or check the CVB website for the full scoop. And for a quirky touch, Vicki would hire the Grinch to add mischief and charm to the town's holiday spirit. So, from free movies to parades and giant stockings, South Charleston is the place to be. Until next time, keep hustling with a smile!