Episodes
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In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Mumpower, Founder and Principal of Conspire—a brand strategy firm built on purpose. Conspire crafts brands that drive organizations toward their unique goals, delivering brand strategy, design, and marketing that inspire movement by connecting people to a shared purpose. Jeremy shares how Conspire believes brands built on purpose have the power to change the world—because when you can move people, you can move mountains.
Jeremy Mumpower, Founder/Principal
Full-time dad and designer, Jeremy balances the duties with the best of 'em. From barbecues to boardrooms, he's as comfortable watching a game with friends, as he is shaping corporate brand strategy. Owner and Principal, Jeremy leads Conspire from a rich background in brand strategy, identity and retail / environment design. Catch him before 4:30 p.m., as he’s known to put in early hours to spend max time with the ‘home team’ – wife Natalie and three kids.
To learn more about Conspire, visit https://www.conspirewith.us/.
Tune in today as Jeremy Mumpower, Founder/Principal of Conpsire, sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: A Mission to Connect and Inspire.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. You can learn about Capital University here. -
During this podcast, we talk with Dawn Tyler Lee, Founder & CEO of Forrest Street Consulting. Dawn is a change agent, strategist, relationship builder, thought partner, and problem solver with extensive experience in public service, higher education, and the nonprofit sectors. She’s also a certified John Maxwell coach, trainer, and speaker who thrives on helping people reach their full potential.
At Forrest Street Consulting, Dawn not only focuses on leadership development but also provides interim leadership during transitions, having served as acting Franklin County Commissioner and Interim Executive Director for both Dress For Success and the Charitable Healthcare Network. Her firm also manages special projects and plays a crucial role in integrating African American professionals and their families into the Central Ohio community.
Dawn Tyler Lee, Founder & CEO
Dawn Tyler Lee is a change agent, strategist, relationship builder, thought partner, and problem solver in the public service, higher education and nonproft sectors.
Dawn is a certified John Maxwell coach, trainer and speaker who thrives when she can support people in reaching their full potential. In addition to developing leaders, FSC provides interim leadership for organizations in leadership transition and has done so as an acting Franklin County Commissioner and Interim Executive Director for Dress For Success and the Charitable Healthcare Network. Forrest Street also executes and manages special projects and helps to introduce, acclimate and integrate African American professionals, and their families into the central Ohio community.
Prior to founding Forrest Street, Dawn served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Columbus, Ohio Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. There, she was the highest ranking African American appointed official and was responsible for advancing the Mayor’s Equity Agenda. She was also tapped by the Mayor to lead the city’s first ever national search for its police chief.
Her transformative work history also includes Senior Vice President for Community Impact at United Way of Central Ohio, Founding Executive Director of Partners Achieving Community Transformation (PACT), a community development collaborative, Assistant Vice President for Government Relations and Assistant Vice President for Outreach and Engagement at The Ohio State University, Board Liaison for Columbus City Schools, Columbus City Council Legislative Aide and Housing Policy Director for the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio.
Dawn has been featured in Business First, Columbus Monthly Magazine, Columbus Alive! and Who’s Who in Black Columbus, and has received numerous awards including being named a YWCA Woman of Achievement. She is a graduate of Harvard Business School Young Americans Leadership Program and the African American Leadership Academy (AALA). She serves on the AALA Advisory Board and is a member of the City of Columbus Civil Service Commission.
Dawn earned her master’s degree in urban affairs and public policy from the University of Delaware with a specialization in housing and community development, is a proud graduate of Hampton University and an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Dawn lives on the eastside of Columbus, Ohio, with her entrepreneur husband, Robert E. Lee Ill, and their two lovable, but sometimes ornery, dogs Chiqui and Charli, both rescued from Puerto Rico.
To learn more about Forrest Street Consulting, visit https://www.forreststreetconsulting.com/.
Tune in today as Dawn Tyler Lee, Founder & CEO of Forrest Street Consulting, sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: Connection, Community & Helping People Reach Their Full Potential.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. -
Missing episodes?
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During this podcast, we talk to Doug Schwarzwalder, Co-Founder and CEO, and Dan Fronk, Co-Founder, of Ignite, an all-in-one employee engagement solution for a connected and thriving workforce. Ignite is a SaaS company that provides employee engagement solutions, most effectively leveraged for medium to large companies with over 500 employees in any industry. The company’s employee engagement platform, also called Ignite, offers a rich suite of tools centered around communication, recognition, learning, gamification, and cloud file storage in one user-friendly platform. Ignite currently has over 250k engaged users who have used our recognition capabilities to give over 1.3 million recognitions on the platform. The all-in-one platform approach separates Ignite from its competition by creating efficiency and effectiveness for its clients. Ignite boosts engagement and drives motivation in a way that’s tailored to each unique company culture.
Doug Schwarzwalder, Co-Founder & CEO
Doug Schwarzwalder, Co-Founder & CEO
Doug Schwarzwalder's journey with Dancor Solutions, the powerhouse behind Ignite, began in 2005 as a pre-press operator. With a background in graphic design and a fervent love for technology, Doug's insatiable curiosity led him to constantly push the boundaries of his knowledge, propelling him into leadership roles in emerging technologies. His unwavering dedication and drive for growth have been instrumental in the establishment and evolution of our technology division. Doug's commitment to process improvement and his ability to adapt to the ever-changing needs of our partners paved the way for the inception of Ignite. Beyond his professional pursuits, he leads a dynamic personal life filled with running, drumming, and expanding his technological expertise. Doug, living in a Columbus suburb with his wife and three children (twins included), continues to inspire his adult son starting his own career, embodying innovation and passion.
Dan Fronk, Co-Founder
Dan Fronk, Co-Founder
Dan Fronk is a seasoned veteran in the printing industry, with over 25 years of experience managing training, operations, and communications for Fortune 100 companies and beyond. His passionate and innovative leadership has transformed Dancor Solutions from a commercial printing company to a communication strategy powerhouse focused on enhancing the employee experience. Dan's mission is to cultivate meaningful relationships and develop customized, cutting-edge solutions that exceed partners' expectations. As the driving force behind Dancor, Dan's dedication to his clients is only matched by his commitment to community service. He has served on numerous boards, including St. Stephens Community House, the Bucknell Alumni Board, and the Cancer Support Community – Rays of Hope, while currently sitting on the Columbus Chamber Small Business Council. Dan's impact extends far beyond the printing industry, leaving a lasting impression on all those he serves.
To learn more about Dancor, visit https://www.dancorsolutions.com/ and to learn more about Ignite, visit https://www.ignite.team/.
Tune in today as Dan Fronk with Dancor, and Doug Schwarzwalder with Ignite, sit down with Don DePerro, President & CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce to discuss: Igniting Employee Engagement and Revolutionizing Communication Strategies.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. You can learn about Capital University here. -
As the current President of FST Logistics since September 2023, Brad Wright has orchestrated a remarkable journey of leadership within the organization. His growth through various key roles reflects not only his dedication but also his profound impact on the growth and success of FST Logistics.
Starting his career as an Account Manager in January 2013, Wright demonstrated early on his knack for building strong client relationships. His relentless commitment to exceeding expectations paved the way for his rise within the company. As Business Development Manager from November 2014 to January 2017, he played a pivotal role in expanding FST's client base.
Elevating his contributions further, Wright assumed the position of Director of Business Development from January 2017 to December 2018. During this time, he showcased strategic vision and business intelligence, setting the stage for his following roles. As Chief Operations Officer from December 2018 to February 2020, Wright helped position FST's operations for long-term success by identifying critical needs within the operations and recruiting top-level talent to fill those gaps.
In February 2020, Wright took on the role of Vice President, Sales & Marketing, where he spearheaded initiatives that not only amplified FST's market presence but also fostered client loyalty. His impact was further solidified as Chief Revenue Officer from April 2021 to September 2023, a period marked by substantial revenue growth and strategic positioning in the market.
Since assuming the role of President in September 2023, Wright has continued to steer FST Logistics towards new heights. His leadership philosophy, centered on employee development, customer-centric solutions, and fostering meaningful relationships, has not only solidified FST's standing in the industry but has also positioned the company that thrives on excellence.
Beyond his day-to-day, Wright is an advocate for the logistics industry's future. Always open to networking and engaging in thoughtful conversations, he invites professionals dedicated to logistics, transportation, warehousing, employee development, employee-ownership, and customer service to connect, collaborate, and collectively drive the industry forward.
EXPERIENCE
FST Logistics
President, September 2023 to Present
Chief Revenue Office, April 2021 to September 2023
Vice President, Sales & Marketing, February 2020 to April 2021
Chief Operations Officer, December 2018 to February 2020
Director of Business Development, January 2017 to December 2018
Business Development Manager, November 2014 to January 2017
Account Manager, January 2013 to November 2014
COMMUNITY
Business Advisor, Dublin Food Pantry, 2023 to Present
Board Member – Sponsorship, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals – Columbus, 2015 to Present
About FST Logistics
FST Logistics is a dedicated logistics partner for established and fast-growing brands. Their retail logistics expertise is just one of the things that makes them the right fit for fast-growth or established brands. Their single-source logistics solutions and cold-chain experience make FST the best partner to help you meet the rigorous demands of today’s complex e-commerce and grocery supply chains. FST has the experience and expertise required to deliver your products on time and in full, eliminating fines and boosting your on-shelf availability. Being 100% employee-owned – from their office staff to warehouse employees and truck drivers – means their specialists are driven to help your brand succeed. Your success is their success!
To learn more about FST Logistics, visit https://fstlogistics.com/.
Tune in today as Brad Wright, President of FST Logistics, sits down with Don DePerro, President & CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce to discuss: Being an Employee-Owned Business, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) & The Logistics Industry’s Future.
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Michelle Allen, owner of confectionery cafe MMELO Boutique Confections – We’re in the process of setting up our consumer-packaged goods division and developing a warehouse space to support that. A Columbus native, Allen went to OSU before heading to New York to work as a producer for 14 years. There, girl would meet boy, fall in love, and move to Spain. During the couple’s 13 years in Spain, Allen started and sold a natural hair care products company and became a mother. While her son was in nursery school, she started studying food science and recipe design… her self-described “child’s palate” inspired her to start a modern confectionery brand.
For Michelle Allen, life is like a box of chocolates. Literally.
Allen wears many hats every day: wife, mother, business owner, food designer and confectioner. But when you factor in her smarts, talent, and determination, you immediately discover the recipe for her success.
The owner of Mmelo, A confectionery food producer that specializes in all-natural, high-end pastries and sweet treats for the retail, wholesale, and corporate space. My mother used to tell me I was extraordinarily lucky just to be born and doubly lucky on a planet this spectacular! Go roll around it she would say…. That really has been the guiding principle of my life. Life too short not to take advantage of the opportunities and experiences life offers, and that’s exactly what she’s doing, despite operating a small, independent business during the worst pandemic in a century.
Food science becomes culinary passion
A former film production company executive, Allen and her British director husband moved to Barcelona, Spain, after 9/11. She started studying food science and says two things spurred her interest in creating all-natural treats: her own predilection for sweets, and her son’s autism, which drove her to investigate how diet and health interact.
“I learned the structures of sugars and chocolates and ended up building my brand around what I learned,” she says. “I knew there were dyes and things in food that didn't necessarily need to be there. My son is autistic and ADHD, so we were conscious of his diet. I started working with natural ingredients and with the science, and started making treats he could have. My company was born out of that.”
By 2015, Michelle and her family returned to the States, settling in Columbus, Ohio, her hometown. She created Mmelo as a pop-up, despite never running a food business before. She made a lot of “epic” mistakes and called the venture a massive learning curve.
“That’s the entrepreneurial path,” she says. “When you create something that didn’t exist before, you know you’re going to make mistakes. The trick is to figure out how to navigate through it and grow.”
The power of the popup!
And grow she did—eventually opening two brick-and-mortar locations, plus a commercial kitchen and retail arm and ultimately changing the business model to facilitate and grow her brand. But, she’s still a firm believer in the power of the pop-up, especially where up-and-coming women entrepreneurs are concerned.
“It's a fairly low-cost way to get your product in front of customers, and learn what they do and don’t respond to,” she says. At our core, the ‘subtext” of Mmelo is building wonder and community around food. I’m always thinking about how to bring products to consumers that showcase the spectacular promise of the resources available to us. The sublime pleasure of passion fruit and dark chocolate for example! A pop-up is a great opportunity for you to talk to people about the experience of your product, your process and your goals. And without making a massive capital investment - risky at the very best of times!. You can see if they’ll invest in your idea; there's nothing else influencing them—it’s just you in front of them, with the product, in an environment aligned with your brand's messaging and values. -
In his 20 years with Plante Moran, Keith Martinez has had the privilege to work with a variety of staff and clients and do something different each day – that’s what attracted him to this career. As the office managing partner in Columbus, Keith spends time mentoring staff and focusing on growth, strategy initiatives, and community involvement.
Keith also leads the firm’s Central Ohio higher education team, specializing in assurance and consulting services for public and private universities. Additionally, Keith works with middle-market or private equity-owned manufacturers, distributors, and construction companies.
Keith is a frequent speaker at Plante Moran’s Ohio Higher Education Industry Update and the Ohio Association of College and University Business Officers (OACUBO). Past topics Keith has spoken on include the new not-for-profit financial reporting model, net asset classification, and single audits.
Keith belongs to the AICPA, the Ohio Society of CPAs, the Michigan Association of CPAs, The Entrepreneurship Institute, the Association for Corporate Growth, CFMA of Central Ohio, and the Builders Exchange of Central Ohio. Keith is on the Board of Directors for the Columbus Chamber of Commerce as well as the Board of Directors for the Mount Carmel College of Nursing where he serves as Vice Chair. Keith received his B.A. in Accounting from Michigan State University.
Keith and his wife have their hands full with two young boys. Thanks to their interest, Keith is a master Lego builder.
Fun fact: All of Keith’s grandparents were blue collar, hard-working people. One of them immigrated to the United States when he was 16. They taught Keith to work hard and give his full effort in anything he does.
About the Plante Moran
Co-founder Frank Moran often referred to our firm as “a people firm disguised as an accounting firm.” Why? Because people are at the core of everything we do.
You see, at Plante Moran, an engagement is much more than a professional transaction. It’s a personal experience where clients are confident we’re looking out for them, no matter their size, location, or what goals they’ve set. With our seamless service, recognized expertise, and personal approach to relationships, our clients have clarity and confidence, no matter what’s next. In our 100 years in business, we’ve grown to be one of the nation’s largest audit, tax, consulting, and wealth management firms. Our more than 3,800 professionals, with experience working in over 150 countries, are committed to exemplary client service every day and everywhere.
To learn more about Plante Moran, visit https://www.plantemoran.com/.
Tune in today as Keith Martinez, Partner of Plante Moran (Columbus), sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: 100 Years of Success, Advice for Aspiring CPAs, & Work-Life Balance.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. -
Brandi is passionate about how strategy, culture, leadership and coaching intersect to create impactful and thriving teams through sustained change stewardship.
Brandi has been working in and serving the Columbus community since 2003; with over 16 years of public service and previously in the non-profit sector at the YMCA of Central Ohio. Brandi is an instructor at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, where she teaches about leadership and change management, a MAPS instructor and a certified life and leadership coach.
Her passion for human-centered strategy and leadership systems helps transform organizations and cultures to increase their effectiveness and impact. Brandi is the former Chief Advancement and Strategy Officer for the YMCA of Central Ohio where she oversaw strategy, community relations, marketing and communications. Prior to the YMCA, Brandi was the Deputy Innovation Officer for the City of Columbus, Chief of Community Relations for Columbus Recreation and Parks, Deputy Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Ohio Department of Commerce and Assistant City Administrator for the City of Gahanna.
Brandi is a graduate of Leadership Columbus and a member of the 2021 Forty Under Forty Class. She has her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Public Administration.
About the YMCA of Central Ohio
The Y is the original social enterprise and one of Central Ohio’s leading nonprofits committed to helping all people reach their full potential through empowering youth and families, improving individual and community health and sparking social change to help our neighbors. Strengthening community is our cause and we offer inclusive programming and services focused on Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. As part of the fabric of Central Ohio for more than 168 years and a vital community asset, the Y has long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver lasting personal and social change. For more information about the YMCA of Central Ohio, visit ymcacolumbus.org.
To learn more about the YMCA of Central Ohio, visit https://www.ymcacolumbus.org/.
Tune in today as Brandi Braun AL-Issa, Former Chief Advancement and Strategy Officer of the YMCA of Central Ohio, sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: How Strategy, Culture, Leadership and Coaching Intersect.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. -
Her small and humble beginnings laid the foundations for her life and future. The struggles Asia and her mother endured inspired her to become who she is today. At times, she watched her mother work two jobs. Her mother set a beautiful example of what hard work and resilience embodied. On a typical Saturday morning as a child, you could find her in front of her home selling ice cold lemonade and warm chocolate chip cookies. Offering her earnings to assist her mother was the beginning of her entrepreneurship and her desire to provide for her family. Once she became a mother, her focus was to ensure that she breaks generational curses and builds generational wealth. Her background in coordinating, marketing, and customer service ignited the start of H&H Luxury Events! Named after her two sons, Halton & Henson!
“I am not what you say I am, but what you are afraid to admit.” - Asia Smith, Owner, H&H Luxury Events
Based in Columbus, Ohio, H&H Luxury Events is a company that prides themselves on bringing entertainment and luxury to any event! They offer the most current and relevant technology in the industry to give you the ultimate experience. Their staff is highly trained and specialized in customer service and hospitality to not only ensure that they meet your expectations, but they exceed them. They would love to design a custom experience with their interactive, innovative, and completely customizable photo booths. The fun is limitless and the memories are endless! Their services are perfect for trade shows, corporate events, galas, festivals, weddings, birthday parties, and more!
To learn more about H&H Luxury Events, visit https://hhluxuryevents.com/.
Tune in today as Asia Smith, Owner of H&H Luxury Events, sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: Building an Eclectic Customer Base and Advice for Young & Aspiring Female Entrepreneurs.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. -
CEO of HMB (former)
SVP at CGI (current)
Professional
Harris has been in IT Consulting and Technology for more than 35 years and currently serves as Senior Vice President for CGI. Prior to January of 2021, Tom was the chief executive officer and owner of HMB for more than 27 years. Over those years, he has served on a variety of leadship roles, while growing the company to over 65M in revenue at its peak. .
As a founding member of HMB, he has taken great pride in leading the company from an idea back in 1994 to one of central Ohio's most successful and respected IT consulting firms. He is the recipient of the 2013 CEO of the Year award from Columbus CEO Magazine & 10TV and was recognized as the 2015 Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Harris is a firm believer in the phrase “you win with people” and notes that among his greater accomplishments is the positive culture that has been created by the teams at HMB. This constructive environment has been recognized as a Best Place to Work by Columbus Business First and a Top Workplace by Columbus CEO Magazine through numerous awards since 2012, year after year.
Personal
Harris earned a bachelor’s degree in computer information sciences from the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University where he also was co-captain of the baseball team. Tom has been married to Jodi Harris for over 35 years and they have two children, Jacob Harris (30) (and wife Lindsay (28) and their son Luke Thomas (1 month)) and Brady Harris (28). Tom enjoys being outdoors, including golf, cycling, hiking/walking, and enjoying warm weather any time he can get it. One fun fact, Tom and his wife are avid shark tooth hunters and routinely drive to beaches (or dig sites) known for finding shark’s teeth.
Fun Facts:
Played shortstop for OSU’s baseball team and was a Captain
Decompresses with outdoor activities like golfing, cycling, walking, pickleball, and hiking.
Avid snow skier
Plays the guitar in his spare time
Named professional golfer as his dream job
Lived in Columbus since he was 4 years old and never left
Board Positions
The Columbus Chamber of Commerce: 2018-PresentWorkforce Committee: 2019 – present
Legatus – Columbus Chapter: 2019 - Present
YCP - Columbus: 2023 - present
MoMM Foundation: 2013-Present Board Member
Past:
The Columbus Chamber of Commerce - Small Business Council: 2015-2018Government Affairs Steering Committee (2016-2018)
SMART Columbus: 2018 – Working Group Chair
The Ohio State University Sports Medicine: 2015 – 2017 (Committee Member)
To learn more about CGI, visit https://www.cgi.com/en.
Tune in today as Tom, Senior Vice President of CGI, sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: Building a Positive & Constructive Work Culture and Leading an IT Consulting Firm in the Central Ohio Region.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. -
Lachandra B. Baker, MBA, CDP (she/her) is Founder and Principal Consultant at LBB Edutainment, a consultancy specializing in the development of strategies that improve and positively impact employee engagement, communications, culture, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
She received her bachelor’s degree from Central Washington University, majoring in Hospitality Management and Communications. She received her MBA with a Marketing specialization from the University of the Southwest. She is a two-time graduate of Cornell University's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certification programs (CDP).
She was named a 2021 Columbus’ Future50 leader, a 2022 WELD Woman WELDing the Way calendar honoree, and a 2023 Columbus Delegate for the Harvard University Young American Leaders program. She serves on boards of The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, Leadership Columbus, and Small Biz Cares, as well as advisory boards with Creative Mornings Columbus and Franklin University’s Communications Department.
La is an award-winning communicator and regular TEDx speaker/performer. She is very active in the community and champions many issues including voting rights, affordable housing, civic engagement, and liberation for all people.
In her free time, she enjoys experiencing new cultures, eating great food, and doing fun projects with her family.
To learn more about LBB Edutainment, visit https://www.lbbedutainment.com/.
Tune in today as La sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: Being a Lifelong Learner, Civic Engagement, & The Importance of Mentorship.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be back recording episodes for our Columbus Region community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members. Thank you to our listeners for their patience and understanding as we worked to establish a virtual recording setup. You can learn about Capital University here and learn more about cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt here.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.
