Walker Talks

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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