Walker Talks

About Walker Talks

Walker Talks is the official podcast of the Walker County Chamber of Commerce, sharing the stories, conversations, and ideas shaping business and community life across Walker County, Georgia. Each episode features local business owners, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and changemakers discussing growth, leadership, workforce, tourism, agriculture, and the real challenges and opportunities facing our region. These are honest, thoughtful conversations focused on connection, collaboration, and long-term impact — not sales pitches. Whether you’re a business owner, community advocate, or someone invested in the future of Walker County, Walker Talks offers insight into what’s happening locally and why it matters. Listen in to better understand our community, learn from local experience, and stay connected to the people building Walker County every day.

Publisher

Walker County Chamber of Commerce

Category

business · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

19 Jan 2026

Latest episode

24 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   24 Aug 2026

   Why Leadership Walker County? Graduates Share What You Gain From the Experience

   What do you really gain from Leadership Walker County? We asked the people who just experienced it. In this special episode, graduates of Leadership Walker County share their firsthand perspectives on the connections, experiences and lessons that made the program valuable to them. And now, the Walker County Chamber of Commerce is forming the 2026–27 Leadership Walker County cohort. From September through May, participants meet on the second Tuesday of each month from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. for an inside look at the businesses, industries, organizations and institutions that keep Walker County moving. But the program goes beyond learning about the community. Participants build relationships with other local leaders while developing their own leadership skills under the guidance of Jay Neal, a John Maxwell Certified leadership professional who will lead and teach the cohort. The total program investment is $500. For employers, it can be an opportunity to invest in a promising employee. For business owners and established leaders, it is a chance to deepen their community connections and understanding. And for emerging leaders, it can open doors to relationships and experiences that might otherwise take years to build. Listen to what our graduates have to say—then ask yourself: Could the next Leadership Walker County class include you? Learn more and enroll for the 2026–27 cohort: https://www.walkercochamber.com/leadership Leadership Walker County is a program of the Walker County Chamber of Commerce in Walker County, Georgia. #LeadershipWalkerCounty #WalkerCountyGA #WalkerCountyChamber #LeadershipDevelopment

2. 

   10 Aug 2026

   More Than Business: The Role of Local Business in Building a Strong Community

   What makes a local business truly part of its community? For Dr. Aaron Ford of Ford Chiropractic in LaFayette, Georgia, the answer comes down to something he's learned over nearly three decades in business: business is about relationships. In this episode of Walker Talks, Dr. Ford joins Lacey Smith and Alicia Reagan for a conversation about the role local businesses play beyond their own four walls. They discuss earning community trust, creating a workplace culture where people feel valued, giving back through sponsorships and services, mentoring the next generation, and why character and strong relationships matter in both business and community life. The conversation also explores something every small business owner faces: How much responsibility does a business have to give back to the community that supports it? Dr. Ford also shares what's new at Ford Chiropractic, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and other services the practice has recently added. It's a conversation about business, but even more, it's about people, relationships, and the role local businesses can play in building a stronger Walker County. Walker Talks is presented by the Walker County Chamber of Commerce and features conversations with the business owners, leaders, organizations, and community members helping Walker County, Georgia move forward.

3. 

   17 Jun 2026

   Walker County’s Future: Economic Development, Workforce & Responsible Growth with Matt Harris

   In this episode of Walker Talks, Lacy Smith and guest host Pastor Ashley New sit down with Matt Harris of the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority to talk about the future of Walker County and Northwest Georgia. Matt shares his journey from public education and Walker LAUNCH to entrepreneurship and economic development, explaining how workforce, education, housing, industry, and responsible growth all work together to shape the quality of life in our region. The conversation covers the importance of apprenticeships, career pathways, local industry, workforce readiness, the Peerless Mill and Rossville gateway area, and why regional cooperation matters for long-term economic success. Whether you are a local business owner, educator, parent, community leader, or resident who cares about Walker County’s future, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how communities can grow while preserving what makes them special.

4. 

   28 May 2026

   Why Tourism Matters to Walker County Business: A Conversation with Rock City

   Why does tourism matter to Walker County business? In this episode of Walker Talks, hosts Lacey Smith and Ashley Mew welcome Jamie Rennick of Rock City for a conversation about tourism, local business, and economic growth in Walker County, Georgia. As part of the Walker County Chamber of Commerce’s May tourism focus, this episode looks at Rock City as a powerful example of how tourism brings revenue, visibility, and opportunity into our local economy. When visitors come to Walker County, they support more than one attraction. They visit restaurants, stop at gas stations, book overnight stays, explore local communities, and help strengthen the business landscape across our region. Jamie shares updates on Rock City’s summer events, Americana-themed programming, Dog Days, Birds of Prey shows, local school partnerships, and the celebration of the iconic “See Rock City” barns and birdhouses. The conversation also highlights the success of the Enchanted Pumpkin Patch, the tradition of the Enchanted Garden of Lights, Rock City’s partnership with the Chattanooga Lookouts, and the proposed gondola project connecting Blowing Springs Farm to Rock City. Together, Lacey, Ashley, and Jamie discuss how thoughtful tourism growth can benefit both visitors and residents while creating meaningful opportunities for Walker County businesses. Listen in for an encouraging conversation about tourism, community partnerships, local economic development, and why attractions like Rock City continue to play such an important role in the future of Walker County.

5. 

   20 May 2026

   Outdoor Recreation in Walker County: Tourism, Local Parks & New Adventures

   May is all about tourism on Walker Talks, and this episode takes us into the outdoor recreation story growing across Walker County, Georgia. Hosts Lacey Smith and Ashley Mew are joined by Alison Missler, Logan Edgeman, and Jason Shattuck for a conversation about tourism, local parks, outdoor programming, and new adventures taking shape across the county. From Rock City and Rocktown to Queen City Lake, walking trails, caves, golf, parks, and LaFayette’s growing recreation opportunities, this episode highlights the places and people helping residents and visitors experience Walker County in a new way. The conversation also explores why tourism matters for more than visitors. When people explore local parks, attend events, stay in short-term rentals, eat at local restaurants, and spend weekends close to home, those dollars support the businesses and communities that make Walker County strong. You’ll hear about accessible outdoor recreation, affordable programming, gear rentals, local pride, and why Walker County offers a unique mix of small-town lifestyle, outdoor adventure, and community connection. Tune in for a thoughtful and exciting look at tourism, recreation, and the future of Walker County.

6. 

   4 May 2026

   How to Build a Business People Love (and keep them coming back)

   What does real success look like in business? In this episode of Walker Talks, Lacey Smith and Ashley Mew sit down with Robert Wardlaw, owner of the well-loved Lucky Eye-Q restaurant, to talk about entrepreneurship from a completely different perspective. After a 40-year career with Coca-Cola, Robert didn’t rush into business. He waited. He prepared. And when the time was right, he built something rooted in purpose - not just profit. This conversation dives into: • Why patience is one of the most overlooked keys to success • How to build a business that serves people—not just customers • The importance of culture, leadership, and team buy-in • Why chasing “more” can destroy what makes you great • How one business is helping revitalize a community This is a must-listen for: Entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone who wants to build something meaningful. Walker County is full of stories like this - and this is one of the best.

7. 

   16 Apr 2026

   What It REALLY Takes to Grow a Business

   Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but in Walker County, it’s possible. In this episode of Walker Talks, we sit down with Kyle Barksdale of KB Pressure Washing to hear how he built a business from the ground up—starting as a summer job and growing into a company serving major commercial clients across the region. This conversation goes beyond surface-level success and dives into: ~ The reality of the early years (and why most people quit) ~ The importance of mentors, networking, and community ~ How the Walker County Chamber helps connect businesses to opportunity ~ Balancing growth with family life and long-term vision ~ Why patience and persistence matter more than quick wins We also highlight the impact of the TVFCU Idea Grant Competition and what it means for small businesses trying to scale in our region. This episode is a reminder that success doesn’t happen overnight—but with the right people, support, and determination, it does happen. If you’re building something in Walker County, this one’s for you.

8. 

   6 Apr 2026

   Leadership That Builds: Inside Chickamauga’s Growth Strategy

   In this episode of Walker Talks, we sit down with Eric Pullen, Economic Development and Events Director for the City of Chickamauga, to talk about what leadership and service really look like at the local level. At first glance, this conversation may sound like a lineup of events, new businesses, and exciting growth in Chickamauga. But underneath it all is something deeper—a clear picture of leadership in action. Eric shares how the city identified a gap between tourism and local engagement, and how intentional decisions—like the Battlefield Connector Trail, expanded train visits, and rethinking event layouts—are helping bridge that gap. This episode offers a real-world look at: How local leaders turn vision into measurable impact What it takes to serve both residents and visitors well How small cities can think strategically about growth, infrastructure, and community If you’ve ever wondered what leadership looks like beyond titles and talk, this conversation gives you a front-row seat.

9. 

   18 Mar 2026

   Growing a Business in Walker County: What Banks Look for + Real Local Growth Stories

   What does it actually look like to grow a business in Walker County? In Episode 5 of Walker Talks, we sit down with Brittany and John from First Financial Bank to unpack the real side of business growth—beyond the surface-level advice. From helping businesses finance equipment and expand locations to walking alongside entrepreneurs as relationship partners, this conversation reveals what it truly takes to scale in today’s local economy. You’ll hear how Walker County is uniquely positioned for growth alongside Chattanooga, why community banking still matters, and how relationships—not just transactions—are driving real success stories across our region. We also dive into: • The shift from “lenders” to relationship managers • Why local connections can open unexpected doors • Growth happening in Rossville, Flintstone, and beyond • The role of the Chamber in connecting businesses and opportunity If you’re building, expanding, or even just dreaming about starting something—this episode will give you clarity, encouragement, and direction. 👉 Get connected with the Walker County Chamber and start building relationships that move your business forward.

10. 

    9 Mar 2026

    Walker County Economic Growth: New Pilgrim’s Facility Bringing 600+ Jobs

    This week on Walker Talks, we highlight a big week for economic leadership and growth in Walker County. Hosts Lacey Smith and Pastor Ashley Mew begin by recapping the Walker County Chamber’s Annual Luncheon, where regional leaders gathered to celebrate progress and discuss the future of our community. The luncheon featured April Cameron, President & CEO of the Chattanooga Airport, who shared valuable insight on leadership, collaboration, and the importance of regional partnerships. The event also marked a significant leadership transition for the Chamber as Ashley Mew completed his term as Board Chair and passed the role to Elijah Parker of Peach State Federal Credit Union. Then the conversation turns to a major development for Walker County. Guest Johnny Tubbs from Pilgrim’s joins the show to talk about the new Pilgrim’s facility currently under construction in Walker County. When fully operational, the facility is expected to bring more than 630 jobs to the area while producing prepared foods for national brands. This episode is a great example of how the Walker County Chamber connects leadership, industry, and community to help drive economic opportunity in our region.

11. 

    18 Feb 2026

    How Collaboration Strengthens Our Local Economy

    In this episode of Walker Talks, host Lacey Smith welcomes Wendy Ingram, LaFayette Downtown Development Director and Main Street Manager, for a conversation about how collaboration drives economic strength in Walker County. From downtown revitalization efforts to Chamber partnerships and shared community initiatives, Wendy explains how working together creates opportunities for local businesses to thrive. This episode highlights the power of alignment between city leadership, business owners, and community organizations — and why shared success benefits everyone. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur, civic leader, or invested resident, this episode offers insight into how partnerships shape the future of Walker County. Walker Talks is the official podcast of the Walker County Chamber of Commerce, featuring conversations that connect business, leadership, and community across Northwest Georgia. Watch Online: https://www.youtube.com/@walkercountychamber/videos Visit Us Online: www.walkercochamber.com

12. 

    5 Feb 2026

    Why Relationships Still Drive Local Business Growth

    In this episode of Walker Talks, the Walker County Chamber of Commerce explores why relationships remain at the heart of local business growth. Hosts Lacey Smith and Ashley Mew are joined by Courtney McIlvane with Southern Shadows, a Walker County Chamber member who offers history and walking tours in Chickamauga. Courtney shares her story of finding her way to Walker County and how meaningful relationships helped her build both community connection and business success. The conversation highlights how trust, consistency, and showing up still matter — especially for businesses growing in a local, relationship-driven economy. From Chamber involvement to referral-based growth, this episode offers insight into how businesses thrive when they invest in people first. Walker Talks is the official podcast of the Walker County Chamber of Commerce, sharing conversations that connect business, leadership, and community across Walker County.

13. 

    19 Jan 2026

    Why Community Connection Matters

    Welcome to the very first episode of Walker Talks, a new podcast created to connect the Walker County Chamber of Commerce with the people, businesses, and organizations that make our community thrive. In this inaugural episode, hosts Lacey Smith and Ashley Mew sit down with special guest Evitte Parrish, local business owner and Chamber board member, to share the heart behind the Chamber and why involvement matters more than ever. This conversation explores: - Why Chamber membership is valuable for businesses, churches, and nonprofits - How LEADS groups create real connections, referrals, and collaboration - The impact of leadership programs and school partnerships in Walker County - The Chamber’s role as a nonprofit organization advocating for local business - How collaboration between cities, schools, churches, and businesses strengthens the entire community As the Walker County Chamber of Commerce celebrates 35 years of service, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the Chamber works, why community connection matters, and how getting involved can help businesses—and people—grow together. Whether you are a business owner, nonprofit leader, church, or someone who simply loves Walker County, this episode is an invitation to get connected and be part of something bigger. Ready to get involved? Become a member of the Walker County Chamber of Commerce and start building meaningful connections today: 👉 https://www.walkercochamber.com/join-now

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings