In Season 5 Episode 8 of the Idea Vault Podcast, were interviewing a familiar face here at the IDEA Bank. Some people wear many hats, but for Bethany Grimes, they all have one thing in common: serving others. As President of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, she's the face of the Chamber, championing local businesses through ribbon cuttings, Lunch & Learns, networking events, and innovative programs that strengthen the community. But when the workday ends, another full-time job begins as a mom of five. In this episode, Bethany shares what it's really like balancing two 24/7 callings while leading with purpose everywhere she goes.

We also dive into the personal journey that brought her here, from finding love after the loss of her husband, to moving back home, trusting God's plan, and discovering how the puzzle pieces of a small town often fit together in unexpected ways. Bethany shares how she knows everyone you meet is carrying something you can't see and how showing up with a smile and leading with kindness can change someone's day. Her story is a reminder that purpose isn't just found in the big moments, it's found in the way you serve others, every single day.

Connect with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce:

https://pikecoc.com/

https://www.instagram.com/pikecountycoc/?hl=en

Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank:

https://ideabank.podbean.com/

www.troy.edu/ideabank

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In Season 5 Episode 7 of the Idea Vault Podcast, we're doing something a little different. This special episode features an installment of the Student-Made Store's podcast, Making It Creative, where Student-Made Store co-founder Ryan McElhinney sits down with student entrepreneur Arianna Guzman, founder of ArisDesigns, to discuss her journey as both a business owner and student leader.

From organizing products, managing inventory, and creating welcoming displays as Student-Made Troy's Retail Store Manager to building a growing event decorating business inspired by her family's Mexican heritage, Arianna shares how creativity, culture, and entrepreneurship have shaped her path. The conversation explores balancing college and business ownership, building a brand rooted in meaningful experiences, and learning the skills necessary to grow a venture while pursuing a degree.

The episode also highlights Arianna's experience supporting fellow student entrepreneurs through Student-Made Troy and how that role helped prepare her for the next chapter of her entrepreneurial journey. Looking ahead, she shares her ambitions for expanding ArisDesigns, sourcing products on a larger scale, entering new markets, and ultimately owning her own event venue. This episode offers an inspiring look at leadership, perseverance, and the power of turning passion into opportunity while showcasing the entrepreneurial talent being developed through the Student-Made community.

Interested in gaining hands-on retail, merchandising, and entrepreneurship experience? Applications for Student-Made Troy's next Retail Store Manager are now open. Shop Ari's Designs and follow Arianna's journey as she steps into her new role as Student-Made Troy's Events & Partnerships Manager.

Apply to Student-Made Troy:

Student-Made Troy Manager Applications

Student-Made Troy Creator Positions

Connect with Student-Made Store:

Making It Creative Podcast

Read About ArisDesigns-Creator Story

Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank:

https://ideabank.podbean.com/

www.troy.edu/ideabank

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In Season 5, Episode 6 of the Idea Vault Podcast, the IDEA Bank team sits down with L.C. May, the driving force behind Clyde May's Whiskey and Conecuh Ridge Distillery, for a conversation rooted in heritage, entrepreneurship, and Alabama history. From stories of the original Clyde May, a veteran awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, to the evolution of whiskey production in Alabama, L.C. shares how a once-illegal industry grew into one of the state’s most recognizable and respected brands.

The episode explores the realities of building a nationally recognized company while remaining grounded in family values and community impact. L.C. discusses the importance of reputation, the challenges of scaling a business across all 50 states, and why investing back into Alabama continues to matter most. With reflections on leadership, risk-taking, criticism, and believing fully in your vision, this episode delivers an authentic look at entrepreneurship through the lens of legacy, resilience, and Southern craftsmanship.

Connect with the Clyde May's Whiskey & Conecuh Ridge Distillery:

Clyde May's Instagram

Clyde May's Website

Connect with the Idea Vault Podcast & IDEA Bank:

https://ideabank.podbean.com/

www.troy.edu/ideabank

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Idea Vault Podcast on Instagram

IDEA Bank on Facebook

IDEA Bank on Instagram