Advertise on podcast: Not Just Buildings

A house fire can leave a family without medication, clothes, or a place to sleep but the Red Cross may arrive within two hours with immediate supplies, financial assistance, and help replacing prescriptions. In this episode, Michelle Dowdy, executive director of the American Red Cross in the Blue Ridge Bay area, explains what local support looks like beyond blood drives, from free smoke alarms to emergency preparedness resources. She also shares how the Red Cross helps reconnect families separated by conflict or disaster and why donated blood can’t be manufactured. Hear how to get help, volunteer, host a blood drive, or make a difference with a donation. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

After 22 years in clinical thermography, Tammy has built a network of 42 screening locations across Virginia and now calls Bedford County home. On Not Just Buildings, she explains how an infrared camera records patterns of heat and cool, why she sees thermography as a noninvasive screening tool, and how the results can be shared with a healthcare practitioner. She also discusses why men may benefit from screenings too, what happens when a scan suggests further testing, and the special pricing Longevity Thermography offers during Breast Health Awareness Month. Find out where screenings are available and how Tammy’s work fits into a proactive approach to health. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, Kayla and new Chamber Marketing Coordinator Joey sit down with Genny Luedtke from Fables & Feathers Winery, a family-owned winery in Goodview, Virginia. Genny shares the winery’s origin story, which began during the pandemic in 2020, and describes their hands-on harvest process, which relies on more than 100 volunteers. She highlights their packed October event calendar, including Oktoberfest, a glow salsa dance party, Trunk or Treat, and a Halloween pet costume contest benefiting the Bedford County Animal Shelter. Genny also discusses the winery’s family-friendly atmosphere and exciting plans for future growth. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, Kayla sits down with Mayor C.G. Stanley and Town Manager Bart Warner to discuss the growth and future of Bedford, Virginia. The two leaders share their personal connections to the town and highlight exciting residential developments that are attracting new residents to the area. They also address challenges facing the community, including traffic congestion, infrastructure demands, and high electricity costs. Both emphasize Bedford’s small-town charm, low crime, and convenient location near larger cities as key reasons people are drawn to the area. They also discuss local government transparency, community engagement efforts, and their shared vision for a revitalized downtown and a thriving, growing community. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host from the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce interviews Joel Miller, the new Executive Director of Eagle Eyrie, a camp and conference center near Lynchburg, Virginia. Joel shares his background as a former Tennessee youth pastor and missionary, and how he unexpectedly landed the role. He describes Eagle Eyrie's rich history, versatile facilities accommodating groups from 10 to 900 people, and its peaceful mountain setting. Joel also outlines his priorities, including increasing community awareness, expanding programming, and building local relationships. The host also highlights upcoming Chamber events, including a job fair and candidate forum. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, hosted by the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Kyle and Matt of the Hill City Howlers baseball team discuss the team's rebranding from the Lynchburg Hillcats following a 2024 ownership change. They highlight the enhanced game-day experience, featuring affordable family entertainment, themed mascots, and Saturday fireworks. Guests also cover exciting ballpark renovations, including a new kids' play area, a double-decker bar, and an expanded event space. Additionally, they announce an October concert series and outline various community partnership opportunities for local businesses and organizations. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Kayla interviews Stephanie, Executive Director, and Chelsey, Program Coordinator at the Sedalia Center in Bedford, Virginia. They discuss the center's upcoming events, including the Blues and Bayou-themed Sedalia Feast fundraiser, a Bears 101 talk, and a barn quilt painting workshop. They highlight their seven annual festivals and the Living Arts Afternoons free after-school program for elementary-aged children. The guests also discuss the Big Island Backpack Program addressing food insecurity, volunteer opportunities, and their mission to foster community through arts, education, and nature on the center's 17-acre grounds. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster highlights upcoming Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce events, including ribbon cuttings, an advocacy forum, and a fall job fair. She then interviews Rachel, Market Manager at Manpower, who shares her 32-year journey with the company from associate to leader. Rachel explains Manpower's wide range of staffing services, including temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire placements, along with free training programs for job seekers. The episode concludes with Foster announcing her departure as host, transitioning to a new role with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster interviews Carolyn, Vice Chairman and Treasurer of the Bedford County Fair board. Carolyn shares details about the upcoming fair, held August 21–23 at Liberty Lake Park. Highlights include free admission, a new air-conditioned Home Goods Pavilion, baking and photography contests, FFA animal exhibits, live music, a talent show, and a community expo. She also discusses the livestock and equine competitions scheduled for September. Foster additionally previews Chamber events, including an AI networking session, a ribbon cutting at Peaks of Otter Artisans Gallery, and a fall job fair. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster interviews Alec from the Central Virginia Planning District Commission (CVPDC). Alec explains how the CVPDC serves multiple localities in Central Virginia, focusing on regional planning, economic development, and workforce initiatives. They discuss the importance of collaboration between local governments, highlight resources like career centers and workforce training programs, and touch on upcoming projects including a comprehensive economic development strategy and a Long-Range Transportation Plan. Listeners are encouraged to participate in an active community survey at cvpdc.org before July 17th. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster interviews Kyle, Communications Manager for Bedford Water. Kyle explains the organization's rebranding from Bedford Regional Water Authority to the more community-friendly "Bedford Water," accomplished in-house on a limited budget. He discusses current challenges, including drought conditions and aging infrastructure, and highlights key projects such as integrating the Montvale water system, replacing sewer lines, and upgrading booster stations. Kyle emphasizes the importance of transparent community communication and securing grants to fund improvements. Foster also previews upcoming Chamber events, including networking sessions and ribbon cuttings across Bedford, Virginia. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster welcomes Susan, Director of Marketing, and Jeff, Store Manager of Virginia Furniture Market's Bedford location. They discuss the family-owned company's ten Virginia locations, exceptional customer service, and innovative product offerings, including customizable furniture, immersive audio sofas, and an exclusive mattress line. Jeff highlights a decade of growth in Bedford, while Susan shares marketing strategies and emerging trends. Foster also previews upcoming Chamber events, including a Canva workshop, a networking night at the ballpark, and an AI in business seminar. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster sits down with Bedford County Administrator Robert and Public Information Officer Shelley to discuss the county's growth and key initiatives. They cover major capital projects, including expansions of the animal shelter, sheriff's office, and a new social services building. The conversation highlights investments in parks, fire and EMS services, and Bedford County's impressive broadband expansion, reaching 95% of previously unserved areas. The guests also discuss modernizing government services through technology and improving public communication, showcasing the collaborative efforts driving Bedford County's continued development and community well-being. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster Garrett interviews Ryan Steffen, Executive Director of the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford, Virginia. Ryan shares the center's 20-year history, its mission to make arts accessible, and its busy summer lineup, including free concerts, children's camps, and a traveling Charles M. Schulz exhibit. He highlights the Cav Kid Corner, ongoing renovations, and community collaborations. Foster also previews upcoming Chamber events, including a Canva workshop and an AI networking session. Ryan closes by encouraging community members to volunteer and donate to support the center's small but dedicated team. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus

In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster Garrett interviews Noel Woodcock, Museum Manager at the Bedford Museum and Genealogical Library. Noel shares the museum's history, founded in 1933 and housed in a stunning 1895 Romanesque Revival building. She highlights the genealogical library's extensive resources, diverse exhibits spanning three floors, and the museum's role in preserving Bedford's heritage. The conversation also covers upcoming events, including a summer speaking series and the museum's 93rd anniversary celebration. Foster additionally recaps recent Chamber events and previews upcoming networking opportunities for Bedford's business community. This podcast lives on Media Squatch+  Your home for local voices, live shows, and nonstop audio. Listen free: https://mediasquat.ch/plus