Chamber On! — the official podcast of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance — shines the spotlight on the inspiring people and partnerships powering local businesses. Hosted by SOCA CEO and President, Matt Appenzeller, each episode highlights the local chamber leaders, small business champions, and strategic partners driving growth across our region.
Creating a Sustainable Chamber Funding Model with Clint Nessmith, RDG
What does it take to build a sustainable Chamber of Commerce funding model? Clint Nesmith of RDG, a Convergent Company, joins host Matt Appenzeller on the Chamber On! podcast to discuss campaign readiness, funder engagement, and how chambers can connect funding to meaningful, measurable impact.
From feasibility studies and leadership buy-in to retaining investors and navigating emerging challenges like AI, business succession, and community polarization, Clint shares practical insights to help chamber leaders stay proactive, relevant, and ready for what’s next.
15 Sept 2026
Building a Chamber That Drives Growth and Impact with Frank Kenny, Chamber Pros Community
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller sits down with Frank Kenny, CEO and Co-Founder of the Chamber Pros Community. Frank has worked with hundreds of chambers of commerce over the past 16 years on staff and member training, strategic planning, board retreats and orientations, social media, digital marketing, technology, and many other areas of chamber work.
Matt and Frank discuss how chambers can strengthen membership, generate sustainable revenue, and move beyond an event-focused model to create a greater impact in their communities. Whether you’re looking to grow your chamber membership, build stronger boards, or use technology to accomplish more with limited resources, don't miss this episode of Chamber On!
23 Jul 2026
From Relevant to Impact: Building Durable Chambers of Commerce in an Era of Relentless Change — a NEW book by Matt Appenzeller
How do local Chambers move beyond striving for relevance and create lasting impact?
That question became the foundation for a NEW book by Matt Appenzeller, CEO & President of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA) and host of the Chamber On! podcast.
From Relevant to Impact: Building Durable Chambers of Commerce in an Era of Relentless Change is a practical guide based on data, personal experience, and conversations with Chamber leaders who are committed to strengthening their organizations and the communities they serve.
In this special episode of Chamber On!, Matt shares more about the book, his writing process, and what readers can expect to learn. It's a conversation filled with helpful insights for today's Chamber Leaders!
Get your own copy of From Relevant to Impact: Building Durable Chambers of Commerce in an Era of Relentless Change when it publishes on Tuesday, July 28, 2026!
2 Jul 2026
Energy Optimization for Businesses with Vin Zachariah, Ampica Energy Solutions
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller sits down with Vin Zachariah, CEO of Ampica Energy Solutions, to discuss how Ohio businesses can take advantage of energy choice, better understand their utility bills, and make smarter decisions about how and when they use electricity to reduce costs and manage risk.
From navigating an increasingly complex energy landscape to preparing for growing demand driven by data centers and economic development, Vin shares practical insights for business owners and chamber leaders alike. Whether you're looking to optimize your energy strategy, better understand your monthly bill, or simply stay ahead of what's changing in the energy market, tune in to Chamber On!
30 Apr 2026
Simplifying Payroll for Small Businesses with David Noe, Payroll Partners
In this episode, SOCA President & CEO Matt Appenzeller sits down with David Noe of Payroll Partners to discuss how small businesses can simplify payroll while strengthening their overall HR approach.
Drawing from his experience supporting growing companies, David shares common payroll pain points, what businesses should look for in a payroll partner, and why the human connection still plays a critical role in supporting employees and business success.
Learn how SOCA members can benefit from payroll processing and Ohio BWC Workers' Comp Support through Payroll Partners.
15 Apr 2026
The Top Challenges Today's Chambers Face with Will Roberts, SOCA Chamber Relationship Manager
In this episode, host Matt Appenzeller sits down with SOCA’s own Chamber Relationship Manager, Will Roberts, to explore the realities of supporting chambers of commerce across Ohio.
Will shares firsthand insights on what chambers are getting right—and where they’re facing common challenges. From adopting new tech and measuring impact to leadership turnover and recruiting the next generation, this conversation highlights what separates chambers that simply stay relevant from those creating measurable community impact.
27 Mar 2026
Making AI Training Accessible with Cas Maxwell, Co-Founder and CEO of AI Owl
In this episode of Chamber On, host Matt Appenzeller sits down with Cas Maxwell, Co-Founder and CEO of AI Owl, to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace, especially for small to mid-sized businesses.
By sharing real-world applications (including a case study from the Columbus Zoo), Cas explains how employers can gain a competitive edge through workforce training and even get reimbursed for training through Ohio’s TechCred program. If you’ve been on the fence about AI or simply not sure where to start, this conversation offers practical insights and a compelling reason to embrace new technology.
26 Feb 2026
Building a Value-Driven Chamber with Dave Moravec, Author & Past President & CEO, Colerain Chamber of Commerce
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA), sits down with Dave Moravec, Author and Past President & CEO of the Colerain Chamber of Commerce.
Dave shares how he stepped into chamber leadership just weeks before the COVID shutdown, and how that challenge shaped his approach to building a thriving, value-driven chamber. Dave breaks down the strategies that fueled growth and long-term retention for his chamber, and we also discuss Dave’s exciting next chapter in consulting and writing.
Join us for this conversation packed with insights for chamber leaders, small employers, and anyone passionate about strengthening their local business community!
16 Jan 2026
Making Small Business Payment Solutions Seamless with John Webb, U.S. Bank
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA), sits down with John Webb, Business Development Manager with U.S. Bank.
From online ordering and QR codes to embedded payments and enhanced security, John shares how modern merchant services and payment technologies are helping small businesses reduce costs, save time, and deliver a better customer experience.
Listen to learn how smarter payment solutions can help your business run more efficiently and grow with confidence.
19 Dec 2025
Listening to Lead with Wendy Rodgers, Beavercreek Chamber of Commerce
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA), sits down with Wendy Rodgers, President & CEO of the Beavercreek Chamber of Commerce.
We find out how Wendy used a “listening tour” to reset the chamber’s direction coming out of the pandemic, the creative ways the Beavercreek chamber is helping small businesses tell their stories (including a member-ready multimedia studio!), and the big vision behind a brand-new Business Success & Event Center designed to bring people together and strengthen the entire community. Wendy's leadership is a shining example of what it means for today's chambers to be a lighthouse for the community, rather than a lamppost. Tune in now!
24 Nov 2025
All About Relationships with Chris Kershner, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA), sits down with Chris Kershner, President & CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce.
In this conversation, we dig into Dayton’s deep-rooted chamber legacy, what it means to be a true “voice for business,” how the chamber is tackling workforce challenges head-on, and why relationships remain the not-so-secret ingredient behind lasting chamber success.
6 Nov 2025
Empowering Chambers in the AI Era with Erica Salm Rench, Sidecar AI
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA), sits down with Erica Salm Rench, Chief Marketing Officer at Sidecar AI.
Matt and Erica discuss how Sidecar AI is helping chambers, associations, and nonprofits harness the power of artificial intelligence — from upskilling staff and streamlining operations to building confidence in using AI tools responsibly.
Tune in now to hear how Erica and the Sidecar AI team are making cutting-edge technology accessible to organizations of every size in the AI era.
29 Oct 2025
Leading Through Change with Mike Throne, Chillicothe Ross County Chamber of Commerce
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA), sits down with Mike Throne, President and CEO of the Chillicothe Ross County Chamber of Commerce.
Matt and Mike talk about how the Chillicothe community is coming together in the wake of a major economic change—rallying around local businesses, supporting workers, and finding creative ways to tell their community’s story.
Tune in now to learn how collaboration, advocacy, and a little optimism are helping shape a stronger future for Ross County!
16 Oct 2025
Building Community & Connection with David Peterson, Madeira Chamber of Commerce
In this episode of Chamber On!, host Matt Appenzeller, President and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance (SOCA), sits down with David Peterson, Executive Director of the Madeira Chamber of Commerce in Cincinnati.
Matt and David discuss how the Madeira Chamber is evolving to meet the needs of today’s business landscape—focusing on supporting solopreneurs, fostering connection in a work-from-home world, and leveraging technology and AI to tailor engagement.
Tune in now for fresh ideas and inspiration for chamber leaders and small business owners alike!
26 Aug 2025
Small Business, Big Benefits with Lori Conine and Jeff Williamson
Small businesses in Ohio face unique challenges when it comes to providing affordable, high-quality healthcare for employees. That’s where the SOCA Benefit Plan administered by Anthem comes in.
Host Matt Appenzeller sits down with Lori Conine, Director of Individual and Small Group Sales for Anthem Ohio, and Jeff Williamson, CEO of Consoliplex Health Plan Management, to break down how the SOCA Benefit Plan gives small businesses the purchasing power of a large employer by pooling resources.
This conversation offers valuable insights into one of Ohio’s most successful benefit programs. You'll learn:
How the plan offers competitive rates and access to Anthem’s nationwide network.
The role Consoliplex plays in simplifying compliance, reporting, and administration.
Innovative tools and features that come with the plan, like virtual care available through the Sydney Health app.
Eligibility requirements and FAQs from small businesses considering the plan.
Plus, Lori and Jeff answer the all-important question: Who really is the greatest rock and roll band of all time?
If you're a small business in Ohio looking for a comprehensive and economical healthcare solution, the SOCA Benefit Plan is certainly worth exploring. Visit 844MedOhio.com to learn more and complete a contact form.
12 Aug 2025
Cutting Energy Costs & Boosting Efficiency with Kevin Lauterjung, Co-Founder of Community Energy Advisors (CEA) and Viridi LLC
Rising energy prices are hitting small businesses hard—but there’s a smarter way to manage costs. In this episode, we're joined by Kevin Lauterjung, Co-Founder of Community Energy Advisors (CEA) and Viridi LLC, both based in Medina, Ohio, and the infrastructure behind the Chamber Energy and Sustainability Programs.
Tune in to hear:
How Ohio businesses can leverage energy brokerage services, efficiency initiatives, and renewable energy to lower utility bills by 10-20% or more.
What’s driving the current energy cost spikes, how capacity pricing works, and the simple first step to start saving.
Success stories and affordable ways chamber members can reduce their carbon footprint and increase energy savings.
Plus, Kevin answers the all-important question: Who really is the greatest rock and roll band of all time?
Whether you're a small employer, Chamber member, or just curious about stretching your business dollars, we've got tips to help you take control of your energy costs and find ways to save. Request a free utility review here.
16 Jul 2025
How Small Businesses Can Save Big on Workers' Comp with Jeff Price, Hunter Consulting Co.
In the premiere episode of Chamber On!, we're joined by Jeff Price of Hunter Consulting Co., a Cincinnati-based third-party administrator for workers' compensation group rating insurance with decades of experience.
This eye-opening conversation covers one of the fastest and easiest ways small businesses in Ohio can cut costs: workers’ comp group rating programs. Tune in to learn about:
What group rating programs are and why they’re especially effective in Ohio
How to enroll and determine if your business is eligible for an up to 53% discount
Real-life success stories, including how Matt’s own father saved over $1,200 a year
The benefits beyond cost savings, like safety programs and legal support
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Plus, Jeff answers the all-important question: Who really is the greatest rock band of all time?
Whether you're a small employer, Chamber member, or just curious about stretching your business dollars, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow your bottom line. Get your free savings analysis here.
7 Jul 2025
Trailer: This is Chamber On!
Welcome to Chamber On! — the official podcast of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance — shines the spotlight on the inspiring people and partnerships powering local businesses. Hosted by SOCA CEO and President Matt Appenzeller, each episode highlights the local chamber leaders, small business champions, and strategic partners driving growth across our region.
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