In this episode, Jason Padgett, the Youth Force Director at the Boys and Girls Club of the Ocoee Region, shares insights into the innovative programs designed for teenagers in Bradley County. He discusses the various initiatives, including podcasts focused on financial literacy and multicultural exposure, as well as audiovisual production opportunities that allow kids to gain real-world experience. Jason highlights the importance of these programs in providing youth with skills that are not only relevant but also essential in today's job market, emphasizing the unique position of their club in the national landscape of Boys and Girls Clubs.

Jason shares exciting news about the club's involvement in national conferences, where students get to showcase their work and meet influential figures. He underscores the significance of community support and partnerships in enhancing the educational experiences of the youth, ultimately preparing them for future careers in various fields, particularly in audiovisual and innovation sectors.

Open to all local high schoolers (including homeschool students), the program blends creativity, career training, and hands-on opportunities—plus future plans for apprenticeships and industry partnerships.

In this episode of The Chamber Does Wut?, Tammy sits down with Melissa Woody, Vice President of Tourism Development for the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce, to explore how tourism has evolved in Cleveland, Tennessee over the past 25+ years.

Melissa shares her journey from the early days of the Convention & Visitors Bureau to today’s dynamic, digitally driven tourism strategies. She discusses how targeted marketing, social media, and strategic partnerships help attract visitors while supporting local businesses.

The conversation highlights Cleveland’s unique identity—from its rich Cherokee and agricultural heritage to standout events like the Hot Slaw & Art Y’all Festival and the International Cowpea Festival. Melissa explains how leaning into what makes a community different is key to drawing attention, media coverage, and tourism growth.

Listeners will also get an inside look at how travel writers experience the region, the impact of tourism on the local economy, and why there’s always something happening in Cleveland.

In this episode, Tammy talks with Stephanie Linkous, President & CEO of the United Way of the Ocoee Region to discuss how the organization brings community resources together to address local needs across Bradley and Polk counties.

Stephanie explains that their work is guided by an annual community needs assessment, with current focus areas including affordable housing, access to quality childcare, healthcare and dental services for underserved populations, and a growing emphasis on mental health and substance misuse support.

The conversation highlights key initiatives like United Way Day of Action—an annual large-scale volunteer event that mobilizes hundreds of community members—and the organization’s funding process, which supports local nonprofits through community-led decision-making. Stephanie also discusses resources like the 2-1-1 hotline for connecting residents with essential services, and the Social Impact Center, which supports nonprofits with affordable workspace and resources.

Additionally, the episode touches on leadership development through the Young Professionals group and Stephanie’s upcoming role as Chair of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce Board. She emphasizes the importance of community involvement, encouraging small businesses and nonprofits to engage with the Chamber to build connections and make a greater local impact.

Overall, the episode showcases how collaboration, volunteerism, and strategic funding help strengthen the region and improve quality of life.

In this episode of Chamber Does What?, Tammy has invited Nancy Casson — longtime community leader, business owner, and passionate arts advocate — to share the story behind Chair-ries Jubilee. What began in 1999 as a small creative chair auction to support local school arts programs has grown into one of Cleveland and Bradley County’s signature spring events, raising nearly $600,000 for city and county schools over 27 years. Nancy shares how every day and repurposed furniture is transformed into one-of-a-kind auction pieces, the themes and creative contributions that make the event so vibrant, and how grant funds directly support student performances, visiting artists, and arts education initiatives. She also highlights the essential role of the Chamber of Commerce in making the event possible. This conversation celebrates the power of creativity, community collaboration, and the lasting impact of investing in arts and education.

In this episode of The Chamber Does Wut?, Tammy sits down with Matt Glass of MadeThis Cleaning to discuss his residential and commercial cleaning business serving Cleveland and the surrounding region. Matt shares how the company specializes in recurring home cleanings, office spaces, vacation rentals, and move-in/move-out services, with a focus on giving clients their time back and reducing stress.

As the only Tennessee franchise location, Matt explains the flexibility of the business model for both customers and cleaners. He also highlights the value of membership in the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce, praising its networking events and relationship-building opportunities. Matt encourages new members to actively connect, reach out to fellow businesses, and focus on building genuine relationships to grow their network and business.

Thinking about starting a business—or trying to grow the one you already have? In this episode of Chamber Does Wut?, Tammy sits down with Jennie DeCook, Director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center, to break down how the SBDC supports small businesses from idea to expansion. Jennie shares how their no-cost consulting helps entrepreneurs with business plans, funding readiness, market research, and real-world problem solving. They also talk about the Chamber–SBDC Smart Start partnership, common startup mistakes, and why having the right capital and connections can make or break a business. Whether you’re brand new or decades in, this episode is packed with practical insight and encouragement for local business owners and how Chamber membership can help you and your business grow.

In this episode, Tammy talks with Kyle Stokes and David Goodwill of City Fields about their work revitalizing Cleveland’s historic Blythe Oldfield and College Hill neighborhoods. City Fields partners alongside residents to strengthen communities through affordable homeownership, workforce training, community gardens, and neighborhood-led development. The episode highlights how stable jobs, safe public spaces, and resident-driven planning are helping neighborhoods flourish without displacement. Kyle and David also share why Chamber membership matters—connecting City Fields to partners, volunteers, and resources that support long-term community growth.

In this episode, Tammy talks with Brian Workman, owner of Bender Realty and the 2025 Chairman of the Board for the Cleveland Bradley Chamber of Commerce. He shares insights about his family's long-standing business and the significance of community involvement. He reflects on the centennial celebration of the Chamber and discusses the importance of economic development, particularly in light of automation and job displacement. Workman emphasizes the need for new industrial parks to accommodate growing companies and ensure job security for residents, highlighting the diverse manufacturing base in Bradley County as a key asset for the community's economic stability.

Workman also touches on the quality of life in Cleveland Bradley County, noting its proximity to larger cities while maintaining a small-town feel. He encourages new businesses to join the Chamber and actively participate in community events to foster connections and growth. The conversation underscores the importance of relationships in business and the unique charm of the community that attracts both residents and companies alike.