The Columbus Chamber has debuted new episodes of cbuzz, central Ohio’s first business-themed podcast, in a partnership to reboot the monthly series with Capital University. Production of the new episodes takes place at Capital’s Convergent Media Center, a state-of the-art facility opened in 2017.
Reading the feed…
How do you turn a simple idea into an unforgettable brand? La'Zendra Danforth, founder of Konfetti Carts, shares how intentionality, customer experience, and thoughtful branding have transformed celebrations across Central Ohio.
In this episode of CBuzz, host Mikaela Hunt sits down with Julie Granillo, President and CEO of Werth PR, to discuss the future of public relations, reputation management, crisis communications, and the growing influence of AI on business strategy. Julie shares practical insights on strengthening your brand, earning credibility, and preparing your organization for an evolving communications landscape.
How do you build one of Columbus’s fastest-growing food brands? In this episode of CBuzz, the Columbus Chamber’s podcast, Shanika and Jomar Sheppard of Marlowe’s Cheesesteaks and the Water Ice Shop share how they turned a food cart into a thriving business built on authenticity, community, and growth.
What does the future of business education actually look like—and how do we prepare leaders for it? In this episode of cbuzz, the Columbus Chamber’s podcast, we sit down with Aravind Chandrasekaran, Interim Dean at the Ohio State University Fisher College of Business, to explore how experiential-driven learning, responsible AI, and leadership development are shaping the next generation of business talent. Fisher is taking a hands-on approach to education—connecting students directly to real-world business challenges, integrating AI in ways that are both innovative and responsible, and redefini
In this episode, we sit down with Corey Favor, Former Senior Director of Community Engagement at Orange Barrel Media / IKE Smart City. Orange Barrel Media is redefining outdoor advertising by pairing bold creativity with meaningful community impact. Through its IKE Smart City kiosks, the company provides more than advertising — offering local restaurant listings, transportation information, cultural resources, free Wi-Fi, and wayfinding to help residents and visitors better navigate the city. With a focus on enhancing the urban environment, Orange Barrel Media partners closely with cities, sup
Name, Image, and Likeness has transformed college athletics, but what if NIL could do more than endorsements and sponsorship deals? What if it could build businesses, create equity opportunities, and strengthen entire communities? In this episode of cbuzz, host Mikaela Hunt sits down with Sam Storts and Chimdi Chekwa, co-founders of BILT Connections, to explore how they are redefining the NIL landscape. Their model moves beyond transactional payments toward equity-based partnerships that position student-athletes as business owners, venture partners, and community investors. From licensing uni
In this episode, we sit down with Annalies Corbin, Founder & CEO, the PAST Foundation. Since 2000, PAST Foundation has been designing and delivering real-world learning experiences that prepare students and educators for the future of work. PAST connects education, business, and community to create hands-on, problem-based learning that is engaging, equitable, and grounded in research. From Microschools and teacher training to student STEM camps and national evaluation projects, we work to ensure learning is meaningful, measurable, and transformative. Annalies Corbin, Founder & CEO | The PAST F
In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Walton, Chief Brand Officer, Sky Nile Consulting. Sky Nile Consulting's mission is to craft compelling stories, elevate unique voices, and empower communities. They strive to transform brands through innovative marketing strategies and impactful brand development. Their commitment to excellence and integrity ensures that every client can continue to operate in their purpose. Jennifer Walton, Chief Brand Officer | Sky Nile Consulting Jennifer Walton is a brand builder, creative strategist, and unapologetic voice for impact. As the Chief Brand Officer o
In this episode, we sit down with Robert E. Lee III, Founder and President, Touchstone Hospitality. Touchstone Hospitality (Touchstone) was founded in 2009 as a full-service foodservice and hospitality management and consulting company. Touchstone, formerly a multi-unit owner/operator of Tim Horton’s Café and Bake Shops, is currently a franchise partner owner/operator of Donatos Pizza, opening its first location inside John Glenn Columbus International Airport in 2014. Robert E. Lee III, Founder and President | Touchstone Hospitality Robert has more than 35 years of leadership in the business
In this episode, we sit down with Andrea Wilkes, Regional Director, Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) & AVP of Entrepreneurial Services at the Columbus Urban League. Through its two offices in Columbus and Athens, the Columbus Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) provides management, technical and professional assistance, access to capital, surety bonding, connection to business opportunities, and assistance with MBE/EDGE/WBE/VFBE Certification. MBAC aims to connect entrepreneurs and emerging business owners to the resources, opportunities, and contract procurement information t
