In the latest episode of The Idea Vault Podcast, “Small Pond, Big Impact,” we dive into the journeys of two exceptional Troy University past and present students, who leveraged their involvement with Student-Made Troy organization into significant corporate opportunities. Izzy Stokes, the current A Student-Made Creator and local business owner of The Beaded Bella, Website Manager for Student-Made Troy, and Website Assistant for 10 other schools. She shares her insights on balancing a demanding role managing 1,000 products, along with her full-time student responsibilities—all while making a huge impact. We also feature Maddie Reed, former Student-Made Troy Campus Manager, who discusses how her initial internship led to a full-time position with Student-Made headquarters as a Program Manager overseeing manager teams from 10 other schools. Maddie highlights the invaluable networking and connections she made, emphasizing that while burnout is inevitable, readjusting and persevering is key. This episode is a testament to how small roles in the right organizations can open doors to a future shaped by experience, engagement, and strategic networking. Also while giving listeners the understanding of how to make the most of their opportunities and to bloom where you are planted.   Connect with Student-Made Troy:  Student-Made Troy   Apply to be a Student-Made Creator: Student-Made Troy   Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank: https://ideabank.podbean.com/  www.troy.edu/ideabank Subscribe to our Newsletter   Follow us: Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram IDEA Bank on Facebook IDEA Bank on Instagram

The IDEA Vault Podcast is back! In this new episode, listeners are introduced to a revitalized structure, with engaging new segments that promise to deliver even more fun. This episode isn't just about changes to the show's format; it’s here to let you in on changes and promotions within the IDEA Bank, students’ mindsets, and the drive towards entrepreneurship. Episode 1 explores the history of the IDEA Bank, and how this has led to where it stands today, and its importance in students’ careers. Emphasizing the importance of cultivating big dreams and understanding the critical role of hard work in achieving success.   This episode further unpacks the huge impact of self-motivation, advocating for the pursuit of greatness for the sheer love of the craft. It illustrates how dedicating oneself to producing high-quality work, fueled by passion rather than the expectation of reward, often leads to unexpected recognition and opportunities. Listeners are encouraged to embrace every aspect of their lives, whether it be in business, hobbies, or career paths, and to find joy in the journey, while noticing the importance of making the most of every moment. The episode culminates in several big announcements, mixed with celebration and emotions towards the past. present, and the future of our program.   Apply to be a Student-Made Creator or Manager: Student-Made Troy   RSVP for the Business IDEA Pitch Competition Interest Meeting:  RSVP Form   Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank: https://ideabank.podbean.com/  www.troy.edu/ideabank Subscribe to our Newsletter   Follow us: Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram IDEA Bank on Facebook IDEA Bank on Instagram

In this episode, we hear from Jesse Meade. President of Power Solutions an oil and gas provider in Chattanooga Tennessee, wife of Troy University's head baseball coach Skylar Meade, mom of two, sister, daughter, friend, and so much more.     We explore how she manages to excel in each of these roles with eagerness and unwavering intentionality. Beginning her career journey in a family business, working alongside her dad in the dining room, Jesse has gone on to lead a specialized equipment supplier in the oil and gas industry. This episode highlights the importance of routine and reveals how Jesse remains intentional in all her relationships, whether with family or colleagues. She also shares valuable lessons on effectively juggling multiple responsibilities while staying present and engaged in every aspect of life.   Check out Jesse's company, Power Solutions LLC: https://powersolutionsllc.net/   Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank: https://ideabank.podbean.com/  www.troy.edu/ideabank Subscribe to our Newsletter   Follow us: Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram IDEA Bank on Facebook IDEA Bank on Instagram

In this episode, we hear from Kameryn Mitchell — a Troy student majoring in Global Business from Dothan, Alabama. Kameryn is a true triple threat. Not only is he a dedicated student, he’s also an athlete on the Troy Men’s Basketball Team and the owner and operator of Details for Dayz, his growing car detailing business. Details for Dayz began out of necessity — Kameryn needed a way to put himself through college. What started with a simple request from a sibling — “Will you wash my car?” — quickly turned into a full-fledged business. From car detailing to the classroom to the court, Kameryn wakes up each day determined to be his very best in every space he enters — and then does it all over again the next day. This is a story of grit, endurance, and humility. Tune in to hear the behind-the-scenes challenges faced by a Troy athlete balancing school, sports, and entrepreneurship — and what it truly means to hustle with heart.   Connect with Details for Dayz: Follow Details for Dayz on Instagram   Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank: https://ideabank.podbean.com/  www.troy.edu/ideabank Subscribe to our Newsletter   Follow us: Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram IDEA Bank on Facebook IDEA Bank on Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with Karla & Louis Johnson, the powerhouse duo behind Johnson Labs, a chemical manufacturing business rooted in the Troy and Pike County, Alabama community. With nearly 37 years of marriage and business ownership, they share the incredible journey of building a company from the ground up while staying committed to their people and community. From humble beginnings in the basement to becoming Alabama’s Small Business Manufacturer of the Year in 2023, Johnson Labs has continuously pushed the boundaries of innovation, bringing clients' chemical manufacturing dreams to life. Karla & Louis open up about the challenges and triumphs of running a business together, the values that drive them, and their mission to create lasting impact. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, sacrifice, perseverance, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn vision into reality—one innovation at a time.   Connect with Johnson Labs: www.johnsonlabs.com Follow Johnson Labs on Facebook   Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank: https://ideabank.podbean.com/  www.troy.edu/ideabank Subscribe to our Newsletter   Follow us: Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram IDEA Bank on Facebook IDEA Bank on Instagram  

From a hobby to a thriving business, Alex Ashendorf, owner and operator of The Cozy Corner (formerly The Cozy Stitch Crochet), has turned her passion for crochet into a top-selling brand. As a TROY student entrepreneur and Student-Made Troy Creator, Alex earned the title of Top-Seller during the opening semester of the Student-Made Store in Troy. Want to know the secret behind her success? Determination, a love for her craft, a willingness to evolve, and a crochet possum. In the first episode of Season 4 , we dive into Alex’s journey—how she transformed her creative passion into a profitable business, the challenges she has faced, and how the Student-Made Store has helped shape her path. Tune in for an amazing conversation about creativity, growth, and unexpected surprises along the way that led to success!   Find out more about Alex and discover her products by visiting https://www.studentmadetroy.com/   Follow the Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/ideavaultpodcast/

In this episode, we sit down with David Norris, a local entrepreneur and owner of Norris Insurance Group for an insightful converstaion on the triumphs and obstacles of leading a team. David shares his experiences in building a strong team, fostering trust, and creating a positive company culture that drives success. Whether you're leading a small business or managing a growing team, David's practical advice and inspiring stories will empower you to cultivate a positive culture and supportive workplace. Tune in to learn how to lead with purpose, build a team that aligns with your vision, and establish a culture that sets your business apart.

In this special episode, we dive into the 2024 Troy Starters Business Idea Competition, powered by the Regions Foundation. Join us as we spotlight the brilliant minds, collaborative efforts, and dedicated talent that made this year’s event a success. Hear from the competition winners as they share their innovative ideas, challenges, and the journey to securing startup capital. Gain valuable perspective from Bethany Allen, President of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce and judge of the competition, on what it took to stand out and win big. Plus, join a discuss from behind-the-scenes of the competition to discover how the competition fosters entrepreneurship and empowers the next generation of business leaders.   Meet our guests: - Bethany Allen, President of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce: https://pikecoc.com/about-us/ - Preston Pritchett, Program Coordinator of the Sorrell 360 Center: https://www.troy.edu/academics/colleges-schools/business/about/sorrell-360-center-for-professional-life/index.html - Vamsi Jupudi, Co-Owner of BrightLyf and First Place Competition Winner - Kameryn Mitchell, Owner of Details for Dayz and Second Place Competition Winner: - Jamarion Willie, Owner of A Baller from the Ville and Third Place Competition Winner   Check out the full story here: https://today.troy.edu/news/regions-student-pitch-competition/

In this episode, we chat with David Taylor and Abby Taylor, a father-daughter duo with an incredible story about building a business to stand the test of time. Tune in and be inspired by their family's grit and ability to turn hard work and determination into a lasting legacy. David and Abby give us a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to run a family business. Whether you’re curious about entrepreneurship or just love a good family story, this episode has something for you!   Follow the Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/ideavaultpodcast/?hl=en    Learn more about the Taylor's family businesses: Taylor Construction & Roofing Website: https://taylorconstructionandroofing.com/ Visit Taylor Construction & Roofing on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaylorconstructionroofingGoshen  Covey Point Outfitters Website: https://coveypointoutfitters.com/  Visit Covey Point Outfitters on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoveyPointOutfiitters 

In this episode, we chat with Alden Barentine, a senior at Troy University and winner of the 2023 Business Idea Competition. Alden shares how he turned his winning pitch into an operating business. Alden dives into the importance of starting small while aiming for big success, providing insight on the ways he strategically utilized his pitch's winning prize: startup capital! Tune in to discover what Alden has done while preparing to launch his business and his plans for the future. If you're interested in business or want to hear how a simple idea can become something big, this episode is for you!   Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on the latest from Alden as he sets his business into action: https://ideabank.substack.com/

In this episode, we're joined by Eric Sloan, CEO of 1Sync Technologies, who shares the incredible journey of building his tech empire. Eric dives into how he found entrepreneurial success by investing in his community and building meaningful relationships. From humble beginnings to leading a global tech companies, Eric opens up about the ups and downs of business ownership, specifically after his journey as a TROY Student Athlete.   Connect with Eric: Website: https://1synctech.com/ 

In this week's episode of the Idea Vault Podcast, we dive into the fast-paced life of a student entrepreneur who refuses to slow down. Join us as we explore the story of a Troy University student entrepreneur and visionary who has built not just one, but two thriving local businesses from the ground up. Discover what fuels Sarah's passion for making a difference in the community as we unpack the challenges and rewards of balancing studies and responsibilities with entrepreneurship.    NEW: Check out the Idea Vault Podcast, now on YouTube with content professionally produced by 7Shots Media Company.   Connect with Sarah and Countryside Kennels or Countryside Acres: Website: https://www.countrysidekennels.net Countryside Kennels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CountryideKennelsOn3327  Countryside Acres Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564675239189  Contact: 334-344-0914 

In this episode, we sit down with Shaun Spivey, a local entrepreneur and owner of Small Town Life and Small Town Graphics. Shaun shares his journey of leaving a steady career at the Montgomery County Road Department to pursue his passion for graphic design, small town living, and entrepreneurship. Discover how he built his own business from the ground up, the challenges he faced, and the rewards of taking the riska and going from employee to business owner. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business or seeking a better understanding of entrepreneurship, this candid conversation is filled with wisdom and awareness of the highs and lows of business ownership.   Connect with Shaun and Small Town Life: Website: https://thesmalltownlife.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_the_small_town_life?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSmallTownLife  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesmalltownlife?_t=8W7KHJ9WYTj&_r=1  Shaun's Podcast (The Small Town Life - Conversations from the Porch): Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts Contact: shaun@thesmalltownlife.com   

In this week's milestone episode, we dive into the remarkable journey behind the creation of the newest addition to the Downtown Troy Square and Troy University, Troy's Student-Made Store. Join us as we chat with Student-Made co-founders Lindsay Reeth and Ryan McElhinney, along with one of Student-Made's creators and managers, TROY student entrepreneur Jessica Roberts, owner of Jaxon Lane Boutique. Discover how these visionaries brought a platform to life where student entrepreneurs can showcase and sell their products. Better yet, hear how Jessica, an active creator, manager, and student entrepreneur, finds and uses this opportunity to better herself and her business. This same-day release episode is one that you don't want to miss! Tune in and make plans to shop online or in-store soon!    Jaxon Lane Boutique Creator Website: https://www.studentmadetroy.com/shop?tag=Jessica%20Roberts  IG: https://www.instagram.com/shopjaxonlaneboutique/?hl=en    Student-Made Store - Troy Website: https://www.studentmadetroy.com/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/studentmade_troy/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560996577385    Student-Made Store Website: https://www.studentmadestore.com/about  IG: https://www.instagram.com/studentmadestore/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studentmadestore  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/student-made-store/posts/?feedView=all    IDEA Bank Website: https://www.troy.edu/community-outreach/idea-bank/index.html  IG: https://www.instagram.com/troyideabank/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TROYIDEABank  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/troy-university-idea-bank 

In this episode, we sit down to talk with Jonas Shaw, the Owner/CEO of 7S Media + Studio 7 and a graduate of Troy University. Jonas shares his story of how he's taken his media and videography business from the lens of an iPhone to a full-fledged successful media company.  Tune into this week's episode and discover what Jonas contributes his success and ability to overcome obstacles to.  As a special-edition episode produced by 7S Media, you can find this week's full episode in video format on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9395FOV8Cdo

We kick off Season 3 with a healthy dose of personal inspiration and entrepreneurial insight! In this episode, we chat with Reanna Thompson, Co-Owner of Studio 207, Graphic Designer, MBA Student, and Graduate Assistant at the IDEA Bank. Reanna shares her journey through entrepreneurship, design, and student life, highlighting the grit and growth that drive her success. Plus, get a sneak peek at upcoming IDEA Bank programs that support local and student entrepreneurship. Don’t miss this empowering conversation!

In this month's episode, our host, Chris Stagl, introduces a new "Person on the Street" segment, featuring local Community Member, Entrepreneur, and Professor of Art: Greg Skaggs. Join us as Greg leads us on a journey throughout the ages and stages of art and business in the local community of Troy, Alabama. This episode features exciting topics such as the revitalization of a community through the increase of art and investment into business!   To discover more about Greg and find his work, visit: https://gregskaggs2.wixsite.com/skaggs/our_story  

In this episode, we delve deep into the inspiring journey of a group of student entrepreneurs who are paving their own paths in the world of creativity and business. Studio 207 consists of five Troy University students who discovered that their dreams could become a reality by starting their own creative needs company, specializing in many areas such as graphic design, branding, and much more! Join us as we explore the story of an ambitious group of students who are making a tangible impact in the local creative market by pouring their creative skills and innovative ideas into their business.   Discover and contact Studio 207 by: - Instagram: @studio207.design - Facebook: Studio 207 - Email: troystudio207.design@gmail.com - Phone: 205-532-3984

From a young age, Wiregrass native Tyden "Ty" Rickard knew that he had a passion for filmmaking. His willingness to break the status quo has been met with success, allowing him to pursue his passion for filmmaking along his entrepreneurial journey. Join us from The Vault Studio as we take a glance behind the lens of an entrepreneur and discover the importance of finding meaning and following a passion.   Ty Rickard, founder and CEO of T. Rickard Producations, author of You're Just a Statistic, nonprofit founder of Houston County Creative Exchange, and creative director of the soon-launching AlabamaCreates. T. Rickard Productions Website: https://www.trickardproductions.com/  AlabamaCreates Website: https://alabamacreates.com/  Houston County Film Exchange Website: https://www.hcfilmexchange.com/ Email: tyden@trickardproductions.com

Self-doubt can be a common cause of individuals being swayed from business ownership. Alternatively, for Adam Vinson, self-embracement has been what shined the way for his entrepreneurial journey. By embracing his "vibe" and infusing his business with his authenticity, Adam has found success on the Downtown Troy Square after less than a year of owning local coffee shop, Fuse Coffee. Tune in to hear about Adam's entrepreneurial journey and discover how he has found success by embracing his authentic self in his business.   Adam Vinson, Local Entrepreneur and Owner of Fuse Coffee. Location: 68 W Ct Square, Troy, AL 36081 Website: https://www.fusetroy.com/ Email: fusetroy@gmail.com  Phone: (334) 770-0639 Instagram: @fusecoffeetroy Facebook: Fuse Coffee