What does it really take to grow your business, build trust, and make a lasting difference in your community? In this episode of Around the Table with Vickie, Vickie and Chris dive deep into the power of collaboration and partnerships—from local nonprofits to small businesses and even pageant systems.You’ll hear how partnerships can fuel growth, spark new opportunities, and bring unexpected joy, all while staying true to your mission and values. From Alzheimer’s fundraisers to pageant collaborations and community events, discover why “losing the fear of being upstaged” might be the key to your best work.Whether you’re a new entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or someone who simply wants to give back, this conversation is full of wisdom, encouragement, and real-world stories that show the power of community.Pull up a chair, grab your favorite coffee, and join the conversation.
In this episode of Around the Table with Vickie, Vickie and Chris sit down with Rich Gilman of Day Law Group to discuss the realities of aging, estate planning, and protecting your loved ones.
From wills and trusts to powers of attorney, advance directives, and the tough family conversations that come with caring for aging parents, Rich shares practical steps every family should take now — before a crisis hits.
Learn why planning early is essential, how to avoid family conflict, and how legal tools can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Pull up a chair and join the conversation — because preparing today can protect tomorrow.
What does it take to reimagine a restaurant — and a career — without losing the heart of hospitality? In this conversation, Alex Richardson joins Vicki and Chris to share how God’s timing, entrepreneurship, and community vision converged at just the right moment. Whether you’re a foodie, a leader, or someone who cares about people, this one will inspire you.
Why does this mission matter so much to me—and to our community? In this episode, I sit down with Brian and Chris to share the heart behind our Alzheimer’s work, tease what’s ahead for our Alzheimer’s Golf Tournament and Lynchburg’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, and talk about how our memory care, adult day care, and open support groups at Runk & Pratt fit into a larger, ongoing effort to support families. We use our Lynchburg events as examples, but the takeaway is for everyone: small actions change lives.
The legendary John C. Maxwell joins Vickie and Chris around the table for a powerful conversation on leadership, faith, and living with courage. Together, they explore the personal side of leadership—from friendship and family lessons to never-before-asked questions that reveal the heart behind his influence.
This episode is filled with:
Dr. John C. Maxwell, founder of Maxwell Leadership®, is recognized as the world’s leading authority on leadership—named #1 by Inc. Magazine and the American Management Association. His books have sold over 30 million copies, and his influence has shaped leaders in every field. This conversation brings his timeless wisdom right to your table.
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This week I welcome two sets of incredible guests who are shaping culture and community right here in Central Virginia.First, I sit down with Ula Kauppi, CFRE, Executive Director of the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra, and David Glover, Music Director & Conductor. We talk about the Symphony’s upcoming concerts, the role of live music in bringing people together, and why preserving in-person arts experiences matters now more than ever in an increasingly digital world. From the excitement of a live orchestra to the impact the Symphony has on education and local culture, Ula and David remind us why supporting the arts is an investment in our community’s soul. 🎶💃Then, in the second half of this double-take episode, I’m joined by Mike Lewis, Public Image Chair for the Forest Rotary Club. We dive into their powerful Field of Honor® Flag Memorial Fundraiser, an awe-inspiring display of flags honoring veterans, first responders, and community heroes. Mike also shares more about what Rotary does year-round—from service projects to local impact—and how anyone can get involved in making a tangible difference. 🇺🇸These conversations highlight how both the arts and service organizations help us stay grounded, connected, and engaged with the real needs of our neighborhoods. Whether through the power of music or the act of service, there are so many opportunities to contribute, show up, and be part of something bigger than ourselves.
In this honest and inspiring episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with Rachel Queen, founder of The Pink Flamingo Play Café in Forest, Virginia, to talk about what it really takes to be a mom and a business owner at the same time.
Rachel shares her personal journey—from teaching to launching a space built for moms and children—and opens up about navigating pregnancy, grief, and the drive to create something meaningful. We talk about the pressure to be a “perfect mom,” the reality of entrepreneurship as a woman, and how community and creativity can make all the difference.
Whether you're a mompreneur, an aspiring founder, or someone juggling motherhood and work, this conversation is raw, encouraging, and real.
In this candid and uplifting episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with Kimberly Logan, Executive Director of Heritage Green, and the pastor at Destiny Green Fellowship to explore the beautiful truth about community, competition, and connection.Though we lead different senior living communities, we're far from enemies—we're allies. We dive deep into:- Building community over competition: How friendship and collaboration enhance senior lifestyle choices.- Choosing the right fit: Practical advice on settling into a senior living home that aligns with values and lifestyle.- Life beyond logistics: We get personal—sharing our visions, faith journeys, and goals with each other and our audience.Kimberly brings 30 years as a Licensed Practical Nurse and 13 years as an assisted living leader, with a passion for “being sunshine to residents” and mentoring staff. This conversation is equal parts heartfelt, informative, and uplifting—perfect for anyone navigating senior living decisions or who believes in the power of friendship in leadership.
In this uplifting episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with Julie Wilson, Activities Director at Liberty Ridge Independent Living, and Patrick Daley, the community’s Administrator, to explore the importance of staying active in our later years—and how the right environment can make all the difference.We dive into how Liberty Ridge creates a lifestyle full of purpose, connection, and joy through intentional programming and vibrant daily activities. Julie and Patrick share their stories, their passion for serving seniors, and how Liberty Ridge is helping residents thrive physically, emotionally, and socially.Whether you're planning for yourself or a loved one, this episode offers a refreshing and insightful look at what active senior living really means.
In this elegant and energetic episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with my cohost Chris, Mark Creasy (General Manager of the Bella Vista Hotel), and Spencer Foley (Executive Sales Director for Entwined Events) to give you an inside look at what goes into planning unforgettable weddings and events.
We highlight the stunning Bella Vista Hotel—including its luxurious ballroom and corporate event spaces—and talk through what makes each of our five venues so special: Bella Rose, Bedford Columns, West Manor Estate, Bella Vista Hotel, and Ivy Hill Golf Course. You’ll hear why these venues practically sell themselves and get exclusive behind-the-scenes insight into how we tailor every experience to the client.
Whether you're planning a wedding, hosting an event, or just love a peek into the world of elegant venues and detailed planning, this episode is for you.
In this episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with my son Chris to share how we celebrate and retain incredible employees in the healthcare world—an industry where so many go unseen and under-appreciated. We open up about what it means to lead with gratitude, how we navigate hard decisions, and the personal moments that shaped our journey as entrepreneurs and family. You’ll get a real look inside the world of senior care, what it’s like running a family business, and how being a mother and female business owner has shaped my leadership.Whether you're in healthcare, building a team, or navigating life’s big choices, this conversation will hit home.
When life shifts, do you freeze or pivot?In this episode, I sit down with my husband Brian and our son Chris to talk about the hardest—and most important—decisions we've made in business and life. From family talks to real-time pivots, we’re sharing the mindset behind every bold move.
Runk and Pratt Websitehttps://www.runkandpratt.com/Around the Table Website: https://vickietalk.comVickie's SocialsFacebooks: https://www.facebook.com/vickie.runkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickierunkEdited By: Caleb Freund @kleb_freund
Every business journey has those pivotal moments—the unexpected opportunities, big decisions, and turning points that shape everything that comes next. In this episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with my husband Brian and our son Chris to unpack the major moments that changed the course of our businesses—and our lives. We share the stories behind those defining events, how we responded, what we learned, and how you can turn challenges into catalysts for growth. If you're facing a crossroads in your own work, this conversation will encourage you to lean in, take action, and lead with clarity.
Runk and Pratt Website
https://www.runkandpratt.com/Around the Table Website: https://vickietalk.com
Vickie's SocialsFacebooks: https://www.facebook.com/vickie.runkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickierunk
Edited By: Caleb Freund @kleb_freund
In this compelling episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I have the honor of speaking with Major General (Ret.) Robert F. Dees, a distinguished military leader and advocate for veteran wellness. We delve into his extensive military service, his role in national security, and his dedication to supporting veterans through the National Center for Healthy Veterans (NCHV) at Valor Farm.Topics Covered:The journey from military service to civilian lifeThe mission and programs of National Center for Healthy VeteransAddressing veteran mental health and preventing suicideBuilding resilience and finding purpose after serviceJoin us as we discuss how faith, community, and purposeful work are transforming the lives of veterans.🔗 Learn more about the National Center for Healthy Veterans: https://healthyveterans.org/#AroundTheTableWithVickie #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #Resilience #HealthyVeterans #ValorFarm
In this special episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with my husband Brian and our son Chris to reflect on the journey of building Runk & Pratt Companies from the ground up.We talk candidly about what it means to put family first, how our residents always had (and still have) our hearts, and why there's always more work to be done when you're building something with purpose. Along the way, we share some emotional memories, funny moments, and lessons learned about balancing life, business, and love.If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your priorities straight in the middle of running a business—or how family can fuel your success—this conversation is for you.
In this essential episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I’m joined by Tim and Veronica Bratton of Soundz Hearing in Lynchburg. Together, we unpack the signs of hearing loss, why it often goes undiagnosed, and how it’s deeply connected to cognitive health—including dementia.We also talk about how to approach a loved one who may be struggling with hearing loss and why early intervention can change everything. If you've ever wondered when it’s time to get a hearing check—or how to have that delicate conversation—this episode will give you the tools and understanding to take the next step with confidence and compassion.
In this heartfelt episode, my son Chris and I sit down with Ted and Michele Jordan with Realty ONE to talk about something that touches so many families: downsizing. Whether it’s helping a parent transition or making the move yourself, we dive into how to start the conversation, when the timing is right, and why it doesn’t have to be a loss—it can be a fresh start.We also shine a light on Ivalace, a beautifully designed community nestled right on Ivy Hill Golf Course. With its thoughtful floor plans, ideal location, and welcoming atmosphere, Ivalace offers more than a move—it offers a lifestyle.If you or a loved one are considering the next step, this is the episode for you.
Taylor Musgrove Perkins is back on the podcast with an inspiring update from CraveABLES! From running a thriving storefront and ice cream truck to hosting family-friendly events and fundraisers, Taylor shares how her mission to empower individuals with disabilities has grown over the past year. In this heartwarming episode, we dive into real stories of inclusion, community, and joy — all through the lens of meaningful work and delicious ice cream. Taylor opens up about the behind-the-scenes magic of CraveABLES and why the team members she works with aren’t just capable — they’re extraordinary.👉 If you believe in supporting local businesses, inclusion, and the power of community, this episode is for you.
What a season it’s been! 🎉 From powerful stories of resilience to insightful conversations on entrepreneurship, senior living, and community growth, Around the Table with Vickie brought real, unfiltered discussions to the forefront.In this recap, we’re looking back at the most impactful moments, inspiring guests, and lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re a longtime listener or just discovering the podcast, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and heartfelt conversations.
On this episode of Around the Table with Vickie, I sit down with Executive Pastor Jason Schonfelder and Senior Life Pastor Kent Wise from Thomas Road Baptist Church to discuss their upcoming Dementia Hope Conference on Saturday, March 15, 2025. We talk about the importance of awareness, the challenges of caregiving, and how churches can better support families facing this disease. Jason and Kent share insights on living with faith through the journey of Alzheimer’s and practical ways to care for loved ones while also caring for yourself. Whether you're a caregiver, a church leader, or just want to learn more, this conversation is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and hope.Dementia Hope Conference website: https://trbc.org/dhcThomas Road Baptist Church's Website: https://trbc.orgAround the Table Website: https://vickietalk.comVickie's SocialsFacebooks: https://www.facebook.com/vickie.runkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickierunkEdited By: Caleb Freund @kleb_freund
