Managing Growth, Retention, Chamber Leadership with Chris Heck
Release Date: 02/03/2026
Uniqueness of Gateway Communities with Megan Curtis
Chamber Chat Podcast
In this episode, Megan Curtis, Executive Director of the Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce, shares insights on how a small chamber leverages its role as a gateway community to boost tourism, support local businesses, and foster community pride. Discover strategies for building partnerships, promoting outdoor recreation, and enhancing visitor experiences in rural areas. Transcript and show notes found at . Please support this podcast by supporting our sponsors. Community Matters, Inc. Resource Development Group Swypit Mike Conn Consulting
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Not Your Average 3P Chamber with Ryan Egly
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In this episode of Chamber Chat Podcast, host Brandon Burton speaks with Ryan Egli, the president and CEO of the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce. They discuss the chamber's growth, innovative strategies for economic development, and the importance of community engagement. Ryan shares insights on the 3P growth strategy—people, product, and power—and how it has driven success in Lawrence County. The conversation also covers the chamber's organizational structure, revenue generation through events, and the future of chambers in community involvement. Transcript and show notes found at ....
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Communication Culture with Mike Conn
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In this episode of Chamber Chat Podcast, host Brandon Burton speaks with Mike Conn, a people coach and culture strategist, about the importance of communication and culture within organizations, particularly Chambers of Commerce. They discuss Mike's journey into coaching, the significance of employee retention, and how to create a positive workplace culture. Mike emphasizes the need for leaders to recognize and value their employees, the distinction between leading people and managing processes, and actionable tips for improving organizational culture. The conversation concludes with insights...
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Professional Development Support with Matt Owen
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In this episode of Chamber Chat, host Brandon Burton speaks with Matt Owen, the executive director of Chamber Professionals of Ohio. They discuss the importance of professional development for chamber leaders, strategies for coping with burnout, and the evolving role of chambers in their communities. Matt emphasizes the need for continuous learning, effective board development, and strategic planning to ensure chambers thrive in a changing environment. The conversation also touches on the future of chambers, highlighting the trend towards collaboration with economic development entities....
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Executive & Board Relationships with Tony Vedda
Chamber Chat Podcast
In this episode of Chamber Chat Podcast, host Brandon Burton speaks with Tony Vedda, the president and CEO of the North Texas LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. They discuss Tony's extensive background in chamber leadership, the growth and impact of the LGBTQ Chamber, and the importance of communication and training in executive and board relationships. Tony shares insights on the future of chambers, emphasizing advocacy and community support, and offers practical advice for chamber executives looking to elevate their organizations. Transcript and show notes found at . Please support this podcast by...
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Making Connections & Investments in Community with Shanon McKinley
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In this episode of Chamber Chat, host Brandon Burton speaks with Shanon McKinley, the executive director of the Story City Chamber Main Street Program. They discuss the importance of community connections, the challenges of engaging residents and non-residents alike, and the need for flexibility in planning community events. Shanon shares insights on leveraging technology to enhance community engagement and the value of building relationships with local businesses and organizations. The conversation emphasizes the evolving nature of community and the critical role chambers play in fostering...
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Chamber Affiliate Structure with Bob Durkin
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In this episode of Chamber Chat Podcast, Bob Durkin shares practical insights on managing teams with diverse personalities and strengths. The conversation explores how Chamber leaders can adopt a personalized approach to leadership—balancing consistency with an understanding of individual differences. Drawing on real-world experience and leadership principles inspired by Vince Lombardi, this episode offers actionable strategies for strengthening team dynamics, improving organizational relationships, and unlocking the full potential of your staff. Transcript and show notes found at . Please...
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Center for Chamber of Commerce Excellence On-Sight Panel Discussion with Mary Frazior & Renee Earls
Chamber Chat Podcast
I recently attended The Center for Chamber of Commerce Exellence at Texas A&M. This is a 3-year certification program offered by the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives. I was able to visit with TCCE Chair, Mary Frazior, and incoming Chair, Renee Earls about the benefits of the CCCE program. Please support this podcast by supporting our sponsors. Community Matters, Inc. App My Community Resource Development Group Econ Dev Ops Swypit
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Evolve & Modernize as a Chamber with Charles Wood
Chamber Chat Podcast
In this episode of Chamber Chat Podcast, host Brandon Burton speaks with Charles Wood, President and CEO of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce. They discuss the importance of evolving and modernizing chambers of commerce, the strategic focus on economic development, and the integration of leadership programs with economic goals. Charles shares insights on embracing change, the future role of chambers in building trust within communities, and the necessity of adapting to the fast-paced changes in today's world. Transcript and show notes found at . Please support this podcast by supporting...
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Diversifying Programming for Non-Dues Revenue with Sheila Thomas
Chamber Chat Podcast
In this episode of Chamber Chat, host Brandon Burton speaks with Sheila Thomas, President and CEO of the Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce. They discuss the importance of diversifying programming to enhance economic development and tourism marketing. Sheila shares insights on the Chamber's operations, including their innovative Chamber University, which offers educational programming for members. They also explore non-dues revenue strategies, the implementation of a lodging tax, and the future of chambers in fostering community connections. Transcript and show notes found at . Please support...
info_outlineIn this episode of Chamber Chat Podcast, host Brandon Burton speaks with Chris Heck, the president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Area Chamber of Commerce. They discuss Chris's extensive background in economic development, the unique challenges and opportunities faced by chambers of commerce, and innovative strategies for member retention and growth. Chris shares insights on the importance of personalized onboarding processes, leveraging technology, and the role of committees in enhancing chamber operations. The conversation also touches on the future of chambers and the need to adapt to changing societal dynamics.
Transcript and show notes found at this link.
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