Savannah Chamber Connect

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, presented by Vaden Automotive, explores the people, businesses, and initiatives shaping Savannah’s vibrant community. From the independent businesses putting Starland on the map to programs supporting our military community and a new festival celebrating Tybee Island’s seafood, this episode highlights the connections, creativity, and collaboration that help our region thrive.
 
Superstar Member Spotlight: Starland District’s Small Business Community
Marguerite Seckman, Owner of Superbloom, Starland Strange & Bazaar, and One for the RoadKay Heritage, Owner of Big Bon Bodega, Miss Sophie’s, and the soon-to-open Maizal Cafe
Marguerite Seckman and Kay Heritage join Dee Daniels to explore the growth, creativity, and community spirit behind Savannah’s Starland District. They share the stories behind their businesses, from art-filled coffee shops and eclectic boutiques to wood-fired bagels and the upcoming Maizal Cafe, a Colombian cafe offering gluten-free, seed-oil-free fare.
The conversation explores what makes Starland such a distinctive destination for independent businesses, how local entrepreneurs support one another through challenges, and why building relationships is essential to small-business success. They also share advice for entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in the neighborhood and highlight some of their favorite places to eat, shop, and connect.
Discover how Starland’s collaborative spirit, creative energy, and commitment to local businesses continue to shape one of Savannah’s most distinctive districts.
 
What’s Up: Supporting Savannah’s Military Community
Tina Hinson Mock, Vice President, Member ServicesJared Downs, Vice President, Governmental Affairs
Tina Hinson Mock welcomes Jared Downs for an update on the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce’s military initiatives and the programs strengthening connections between the region’s military installations and business community.
They discuss the annual Veterans Day Tribute and Military Briefing Luncheon, which recognizes the more than 25,000 service members who live and work in the region, and the Home for the Holidays program, which helps active-duty service members travel home to spend time with family and loved ones.
Jared also shares details about his appointment to the Georgia Joint Defense Commission, explaining how the commission works to support Georgia’s military installations, defense missions, and military families. The conversation explores the significant economic impact of the region’s military presence and how local businesses can get involved through Chamber programs, events, and sponsorship opportunities.
Learn how the Chamber continues to advocate for military personnel, support their families, and strengthen Savannah’s position as a military-friendly community.
 
Quick Questions with Erica: Tybee Island Seafood Festival
Melissa Yao Hille, Principal, My Agency Savannah, and Event Planner for the Tybee Island Seafood FestivalWith Erica Backus, Vice President of Communications, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Erica Backus talks with Melissa Yao Hille about the first annual Tybee Island Seafood Festival, a weeklong celebration showcasing the island’s restaurants, local businesses, fresh seafood, and coastal culture.
The conversation covers the festival’s November 8–15 schedule, including restaurant specials throughout the week, a Lowcountry boil and oyster roast benefiting HUGS, and the main festival day featuring food vendors, live music, magic shows, face painting, rock walls, and family-friendly activities.
They also discuss why November is an ideal time to highlight Tybee Island, encourage local tourism, and support area restaurants and hotels during the fall season.
Visit tybeeseafoodfest.com for festival details, participating businesses, and event updates.
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming Chamber events
Starland District Businesses
Superbloom
Starland Strange & Bazaar
One for the Road
Big Bon Bodega
Miss Sophie’s
Tybee Island Seafood Festival
Visit the Tybee Island Seafood Festival website
Sponsors & Production
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: VADEN IN THE COMMUNITY | Vaden Automotive
SAVANNAH CHAMBER CONNECT IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY DEE DANIELS MEDIA
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Intro
00:47 Meet the Guests
02:26 Superbloom and Starland Strange
04:02 Big Bon Bodega Origins
05:06 Maizal Cafe Story
06:23 One For The Road Events
07:42 Why Starland Feels Different
10:53 Getting Into Starland
12:24 Surviving Business Challenges
15:57 Starland Favorites Debate
16:26 Starlandia and Vittoria
17:27 Nightcap at Wormhole
17:43 Chamber Support Matters
20:16 Veterans Day Luncheon
21:58 Home for the Holidays
23:23 Defense Commission Role
25:24 Supporting Military Programs
27:18 Tybee Seafood Fest Preview
27:48 Festival Week Highlights
29:05 Family Fun and Food
31:05 Dates Tickets and Links
32:28 Sponsor Message and Wrap

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, presented by Vaden Automotive, we explore the issues, resources, and opportunities shaping Savannah’s business community. From the local legislative agenda and early voting to affordable health benefit options for small businesses, regional job opportunities, and the 2027 Chamber Business Awards, this episode highlights the people and initiatives helping our region thrive.
 
Advocacy Update: Local Legislative Agenda
Jared Downs, Vice President of Governmental AffairsBert Brantley, President & CEO, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
 
Jared Downs and Bert Brantley discuss early voting, the upcoming November 3 election, and the importance of reviewing sample ballots and researching candidates before heading to the polls. They also break down key priorities in the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce’s local legislative agenda, including development and government-imposed fees, regulatory enforcement, public safety, early childhood education, literacy, public transportation, infrastructure, and transparency in local SPLOST spending.
Learn how these priorities affect businesses, residents, and the future of Savannah and Chatham County.
 
Superstar Member Spotlight: The Chamber SMART Plan
Tasha Allen, VP, People and Corporate Citizenship and Marketing Director for the SMART Plan, Georgia ChamberPhillip Cerrillo Jr., Strategic Sales Consultant, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
 
Providing employee health benefits can be challenging for small businesses. Tasha Allen and Phillip Cerrillo Jr. explain how the Georgia Chamber SMART Plan was designed to help Georgia businesses with two to 50 employees explore competitive health benefit options backed by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.
They discuss eligibility requirements, employer contribution and employee participation guidelines, how the SMART Plan differs from traditional small-group and ACA plans, and the Chamber Plus option for larger businesses. They also share why employers should consider requesting a quote before assuming health insurance is out of reach.
 
Quick Questions with Erica: Rise Savannah’s Job Board
Angela Hendrix, Chief Marketing & Public Affairs Officer, Savannah Economic Development AuthorityWith Erica Backus, Vice President, Communications & Social Inclusion
 
Angela Hendrix shares how Rise Savannah connects job seekers and employers through a regional job board focused on career opportunities in the Savannah area. Originally focused on manufacturing, logistics, distribution, and assembly, the platform has expanded to include additional high-demand fields, including healthcare and hospitality.
The conversation also explores the Succeed in Savannah marketing campaign, regional workforce development, and efforts to attract talent to Chatham County and surrounding communities. Discover how employers can post openings and job seekers can explore available opportunities.
Visit risesavannah.com to learn more.
 
Inside the 2027 Chamber Business Awards
Tina Hinson Mock, President of Member Services, Savannah Area Chamber of CommerceSam Wilkins, Small Business and Events Manager, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
 
Tina Hinson Mock and Sam Wilkins explain how the 2027 Chamber Business Awards recognize the businesses, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and community leaders making a difference in Savannah. They outline the five award categories, explain who can submit nominations, and share tips for telling a compelling nominee’s story.
The conversation also covers the November 15 nomination deadline, the selection process, and the recognition winners receive, including a professional public relations package, promotional materials, event photography, a video interview, and a billboard opportunity.
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: VADEN IN THE COMMUNITY | Vaden Automotive
SAVANNAH CHAMBER CONNECT IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY DEE DANIELS MEDIA
 
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Intro
01:19 Early Voting Guide
02:32 Key Races Overview
05:01 Local Policy Agenda
05:51 Development Fees Taxes
07:12 Regulations Public Safety
08:37 Workforce Education Priorities
10:27 Transit And SPLOST
13:17 Advocacy Wrap Up
15:10 Smart Plan Spotlight
19:28 Smart Plan Eligibility
24:18 Getting A Quote
26:49 Rise Job Board
31:00 Business Awards Nominations
38:55 Sponsor And Closing
 

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, presented by Vaden Automotive, features three conversations with leaders and community voices shaping Savannah’s business, education, workforce, and sports landscape.
 
In the Superstar Member Spotlight, Chamber President and CEO Bert Brantley sits down with Nick Wilson, Player #33 for the Indianapolis Clowns, to discuss his journey from college baseball and a career outside of the sport to becoming a Banana Ball player. Wilson shares the story of his unforgettable tryout, the history and legacy of the Indianapolis Clowns, and his personal connection to the Negro Leagues through his grandfather. He also talks about building an authentic personal brand, representing the Clowns’ history, and using his platform to inspire and educate others.
 
The episode then features The Hot Seat with Erin O’Leary, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). O’Leary discusses SCAD’s economic and cultural impact on Savannah, the university’s community initiatives and hands-on student experiences, and how programs such as SCADpro and the new SCAD Backlot connect students with real-world opportunities. She also highlights SCAD’s growing programs in robotics, artificial intelligence, music, and other emerging fields, as well as the university’s continued focus on preparing students for professional careers.
 
Finally, Joe Marinelli, President and CEO of Visit Savannah, joins the conversation to discuss Savannah’s growing reputation as a sports destination. Marinelli talks about the upcoming SEC Women’s Volleyball Championship, the opportunities it creates for local businesses, and how major sporting events can generate economic activity, national exposure, and future opportunities for the Savannah region. He also discusses the role of Savannah’s expanding sports infrastructure and the community’s participation in major events, including Banana Ball.
 
The Hot Seat:
Erin Lee O’LearyVice President of Institutional EffectivenessSavannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Savannah College of Art and Design
 
Superstar Member Spotlight:
Nick WilsonIndianapolis Clowns, Player #33
Instagram: @nickwilson_33
Banana Ball – Nick Wilson
 
Joe Marinelli, President & CEO, Visit Savannah
SEC Volleyball Tournament
Visit Savannah – SEC Volleyball Championship
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: VADEN IN THE COMMUNITY | Vaden Automotive
SAVANNAH CHAMBER CONNECT IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY DEE DANIELS MEDIA
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Opening
00:45 Meet Nick Wilson
01:46 From College to Banana Ball
04:27 Banana Ball Tryout
08:29 Draft Night Breakthrough
10:10 Indianapolis Clowns Legacy
14:18 Negro Leagues Family Ties
16:44 Building a Personal Brand
21:40 Playoff Plug and Farewell
22:11 SCAD Hot Seat Intro
22:31 SCAD Back to Campus
23:44 Economic and Cultural Impact
25:39 SCAD Resources for Community
26:06 SCAD Serve Impact
26:51 Good 560 Nonprofit Projects
27:09 SCADpro Industry Partnerships
29:02 SCAD Backlot Opens
31:04 Atlanta and Lacoste Options
33:14 New Degrees and Music
35:20 Savannah Economic Impact
36:40 Relentless Career Readiness
39:25 SEC Volleyball Comes
41:31 Local Contributor Program
43:43 Attendance and Exposure
45:59 Growing Sports Amenities
47:12 Banana Ball Buzz
48:12 Sponsor and Wrap Up
 

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, presented by Vaden Automotive, features three conversations with leaders shaping Savannah and Georgia’s business, workforce, and economic future.
 
In the Superstar Member Spotlight, Chamber President and CEO Bert Brantley sits down with Steve Smith, Chief Revenue Officer of Live Oak Fiber, to discuss the company’s rapid growth, its expanding fiber network across the Savannah area, and plans to invest approximately $150–$200 million throughout the greater Savannah region. Smith also talks about Live Oak Fiber’s buildout on Tybee Island, the company’s community-focused approach, its Live Oak Locale initiative, and the growing importance of reliable high-speed internet as more professionals work remotely and choose the coastal Georgia lifestyle.
 
The episode then features Quick Questions with Erica, as Erica Backus, Vice President of Communications and Social Inclusion for the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Savannah, speaks with Georgia Labor Commissioner Barbara Rivera Holmes about the future of Georgia’s workforce. Holmes discusses the importance of adaptability, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and technological skills, as well as efforts to better align education and workforce development with the needs of Georgia employers.
 
Finally, Bert puts Kevin Price, the new President of the Georgia Ports Authority, in the Hot Seat for a wide-ranging conversation about Savannah’s competitive advantages as a global port, the importance of the port community and labor partnerships, and the Georgia Ports Authority’s statewide economic impact. Price discusses the Port’s long-term planning, the expansion of Ocean Terminal and the future Savannah Container Terminal, infrastructure improvements designed to support larger vessels and improve regional transportation, and the role the Port plays in supporting jobs and economic activity across Georgia.
 
Bert's Hot Seat:
Kevin PricePresident, Georgia Ports Authority
Georgia Ports Authority
Superstar Member Spotlight:
Steve SmithChief Revenue Officer, Live Oak Fiber
Live Oak Fiber
Live Oak Locale – Community Engagement
Quick Questions with Erica:
Barbara Rivera HolmesGeorgia Labor Commissioner
Erica BackusVice President of Communications and Social InclusionSavannah Area Chamber of Commerce & Visit Savannah
Georgia Department of Labor
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: VADEN IN THE COMMUNITY | Vaden Automotive
SAVANNAH CHAMBER CONNECT IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY DEE DANIELS MEDIA
 
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Intro and Guests
01:31 Live Oak Fiber Spotlight
02:34 Why Savannah and Expansion
04:54 Major Investment Plans
07:10 Tybee Island Buildout
08:16 Community Engagement Mission
10:44 Connectivity and Remote Work
12:26 Quick Questions Workforce Skills
14:31 Hot Seat Kevin Price
15:08 Savannah Port Advantage
17:57 Leadership and Transition
19:32 Griff Lynch Legacy
21:40 COVID Leadership Style
22:08 ALA Supply Chain Partners
23:31 Port Community Spotlight
24:25 Economic Impact Explained
26:21 Expansion Plans Ahead
26:56 Ocean Terminal Timeline
28:01 Planning and GDOT Projects
29:53 Bridge Raise for Bigger Ships
31:19 Life Outside the Port
32:16 Transition and Future Vision
34:38 Sponsor and Closing Message
 

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, presented by Vaden Automotive spotlights Richard Shinhoster of Diaspora Marketplace, who shares how trips to Ghana in 1994 and 1996 inspired a culture-focused business at 510 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and a mission rooted in relationships, heritage, and community revitalization; he discusses the Chamber’s Small Business Award recognition, a new bookstore focused on African and Black culture, and tours to Ghana.
 
The show then features Dr. Julie Olson, honorary wing commander for the 165th Airlift Wing, explaining the expanded Honorary Commander Program connecting community leaders with Guard units, correcting misconceptions about the Guard’s full-time commitments and deployments, and highlighting the co-located but separate missions of the 165th and the Air Dominance Center/Combat Readiness Training Center.
 
Finally, Visit Savannah’s Angela Westerfield and Lauren Cleland promote Banana Ball Playoff Weekend in Savannah, October 1–4, with a citywide “ballpark” approach, business participation tools, and an Opportunity Summit on September 10.
 
Bert's Hot Seat:
Dr. Julie Olsen
Meet Dr. Julie Olsen 
Workplace Advancement Strategies 
 
Superstar Member Spotlight:
Richard ShinhosterDiaspora Marketplace
 
Bananas Playoff Weekend:
Banana Ball Playoffs: Business Toolkit
Visit Sav Marketing Leadership Angela & Lauren
Angela Westerfield – Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)  Visit Savannah
awesterfield@visitsavannah.com
Lauren Cleland – Vice President, Strategic Marketing Visit Savannah 
lcleland@visitsavannah.com
visitsavannah.com
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: VADEN IN THE COMMUNITY | Vaden Automotive
SAVANNAH CHAMBER CONNECT IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY DEE DANIELS MEDIA
 
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Intro
00:47 Meet Richard Shinhoster
01:12 Ghana Trip Origins
04:47 Chamber Award Impact
06:00 Reviving MLK Boulevard
11:02 Business Lessons Relationships
14:10 Culture Bookstore Tours
18:49 Dreams And Risk Taking
20:40 Meet Dr Julie Olsen
21:19 Honorary Commander Program
22:49 Guard Mission And Impact
25:02 Training Center Air Dominance
28:22 Change Of Command Stories
30:37 Leadership Training Work
31:49 Honorary Commander Impact
32:44 Program Details and Thanks
34:05 Visit Savannah Guests
34:31 What Is Banana Ball Weekend
37:07 Citywide Business Ideas
38:35 How to Sign Up
40:22 Playoffs and Championship Stakes
42:27 Global Bananas Buzz
43:17 Hotel Demand and Future Events
46:35 Dates Links and Wrap Up
48:11 Sponsor Message and Chamber Close
 

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, presented by Vaden Automotive, features three exciting and information-packed segments. 
 
First up, a Hot Seat interview with Sharon Miller, President of Business Banking for Bank of America, who shares impressions of Savannah, discusses $37 billion in regional investment (port expansion, Hyundai, and an AI data center), labor and retention challenges, and expectations that interest rates may rise rather than decline; she also highlights Bank of America’s hybrid digital-and-branch approach, technology spending, upcoming “Erica for Business” enhancements, CashPro capabilities, lending growth, and community investment through volunteer hours and philanthropy.
 
In a Superstar Spotlight, Mahogany Bowers, founder/executive director of Blessings in a Book Bag, describes the nonprofit’s 17-year mission to provide weekend food and accessible resources, details poverty and resource-access barriers, and shares ways to support events like the Back to School Bash, Tanger Dash and Splash 5K, Thanksgiving, and Christmas drives.
 
An industry update with Chris Andre covers Google’s AI search overviews impacting website traffic, tracking AI bot visits in analytics, Siri’s AI upgrades powered by Google’s Gemini, LLM terminology, model competition (GPT, Claude, Gemini), and advice to test how bots can read a business website.
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: VADEN IN THE COMMUNITY | Vaden Automotive
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
Bert's Hot Seat:
Sharon MillerPresident of Business Banking for Bank of America
 
Superstar Member Spotlight:
Mahogany BowersFounder, Blessings in a Bookbag
 
Council Update:
Chris AndreCRM & MarTech Coordinator
 
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Intro
00:42 Hot Seat Guest
01:37 First Impressions
03:03 Savannah Growth
05:22 Banking Partnerships
06:42 Interest Rates Outlook
08:26 Digital vs Branches
10:39 Tools and Lending
12:17 Community Impact
15:16 Superstar Spotlight
15:52 Mission Origin Story
17:27 Weekend Hunger Reality
19:32 Redefining Poverty
22:45 Accessible Resources
24:18 Accessibility Struggles
24:58 Why Support Matters
25:29 How to Get Involved
27:31 Thanksgiving Giving Drive
28:44 Nostalgia and Dignity
30:40 Need Still Growing
32:26 Beyond Food Assistance
34:36 Strong Together Savannah
36:15 AI Industry Update
36:48 Google Search Changes
38:27 Siri AI Overhaul
39:33 AI Terms Explained
41:07 Misconceptions About AI
42:16 Choosing AI Models
43:23 AI Tips for Websites
44:44 Sponsor and Closing
 

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect features Walker Dalton of the Savannah Regional Film Commission discussing how the commission markets the region, supports productions with permitting and customer service, leverages Georgia incentives and local rebates, and highlights Savannah’s diverse locations, film tourism, and workforce pipeline including SCAD; he also notes recent and current projects such as Comeback King, Road House 2 stunt work, and other units, plus relationship-building travel like Georgia Night in LA.
 
Retired Army Captain Tyler Merritt shares how Nine Line Apparel grew from unit morale shirts into a major brand, explains its rapid product testing and operations, and details Nine Line Foundation efforts supporting nonprofits and initiatives like accessible homes and homeless veterans.
 
Claudette Schomburg outlines the Savannah Chamber’s Ribbon Cutting Council and how businesses and volunteers can get involved. The show previews the free, public 2026 Business Expo and Business Connection on Sept. 24 at Kehoe Iron Works, including booth and sponsorship details.
 
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: STERLING SEACREST PRITCHARD
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
Bert's Hot Seat: 
Walker Dalton, Executive Director Savannah Film Commissionwdalton@filmsavannah.org
Walker Dalton has worked in production and photography for over 20 years. Starting out as a photo editor on Saban’s Power Rangers and moving up to producing photo shoots for ABC, Disney, and NBC. While at NBC he moved into producing the Emmy awards winning Jay Leno’s Garage web-series which then became broadcast show on CNBC for 7 seasons. He left LA in 2018 to produce fashion and documentary films film for the Savannah College Art and Design where he found a love and passion for Savannah production community.
Savannah Film Commission - https://www.filmsavannah.org/
 
Superstar Spotlight:
CPT (retired) Tyler Meritt - Founder, Nine Line Foundation 
https://www.ninelinefoundation.org/meet-the-founder
Owner, Nine Line Apparel 
ninelineapparel.com
Nine Line Foundation was founded in 2013 by CPT Tyler Merritt, USA, a member of the Army’s elite 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. When Tyler, his wife, Angela and brother, Daniel created Nine Line Apparel, their vision was simple: to create a high quality clothing brand to be enjoyed by patriotic Americans around the globe. In the past few years, their brand has grown, and Tyler decided to give back to the community through expanding the Nine Line brand and incorporating the Nine Line Foundation. 
 
Council Update: Ribbon Cutting Council
Claudette Schomburg 
Member Services Coordinator, Savannah Chamber of Commerce
cschomburg@savannahchamber.com
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Opening
00:38 Today’s Guests Preview
01:32 Hot Seat Begins
01:56 Film Commission 101
02:52 Savannah as Backlot
05:03 Film Tourism Buzz
05:58 Incentives and Economics
10:05 SCAD Talent Pipeline
13:24 SCAD Film Festival Impact
15:18 Recent Productions Highlights
19:12 Winning Long Running Series
19:57 Industry Relationship Trips
21:43 Film Work Is Blue Collar
23:15 Meet the Film Commission Team
25:21 Superstar Spotlight Intro
26:01 Nine Line Origins
27:55 Side Hustle Scaling
30:08 Giving Back Mission
31:23 Foundation Impact Stories
34:26 Product Systems Culture
37:25 Savannah Business Advice
39:54 Retail Expansion Plans
45:16 Ribbon Cutting Council
49:56 How Ribbon Cuttings Work
53:36 Join Or Host Events
57:18 Business Expo Details
59:57 Sponsor Thanks Wrap

In this special Savannah Chamber Connect episode, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Bert Brantley sits down with Chris Lehane of OpenAI about the company’s major announcement: a $20 billion Project Camellia investment in Effingham County.
 
Lehane explains OpenAI’s role in modern AI and ChatGPT’s broad adoption, then outlines why coastal Georgia was chosen—state and local dynamism, port-driven growth, talent and education pipelines, and an industrial-zoned site. He details expected economic impact including 400 initial six-figure jobs growing to 1,000+ and broader ecosystem and supply-chain multipliers, plus an $80 million community investment.
 
Addressing concerns raised at an open house, he cites commitments on power (no resident cost impact and added grid flexibility), a closed-loop water system, and ongoing audits. The discussion also covers potential property tax reductions and designing a long-term upgradable facility.
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Project Camellia
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: STERLING SEACREST PRITCHARD
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Intro
00:29 Welcome and Guest
01:43 What OpenAI Does
04:07 Why Effingham County
06:09 Jobs and Education
09:04 Economic Ripple Effects
13:01 Site Choice and Zoning
14:38 Power Water and Audits
17:33 Community Investment Plan
19:59 Taxes and Long Term Vision
23:58 Project Camellia and Wrap
25:36 Sponsor and Chamber Outro

In this episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, we celebrate Savannah's remarkable story—from the city's role in America's founding to one of its biggest modern-day success stories.
Burt welcomes Stan Deaton of the Georgia Historical Society for an engaging conversation about Savannah's colonial beginnings, its role during the Revolutionary War, President George Washington's historic visit, and how preserving our past continues to shape the city's future.
Then, Dee Daniels sits down with Savannah Bananas pitcher Tristan Levesque to talk about his journey to Banana Ball, the unforgettable fan experience that has made the Bananas a national phenomenon, and the personal mission that inspires him to make a difference both on and off the field.
From history that shaped a nation to a hometown team captivating millions, this episode showcases the people and stories that make Savannah such a special place.
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
From Bert’s Hot Seat: Stan Deaton, Georgia Historical Society
Get the Latest Events: Samantha Wilkins, Small Business & Events Manager, Savannah Chamber of Commerce
Savannah Chamber's Superstar Member Spotlight: Trystan Levesque, Savannah Bananas
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: STERLING SEACREST PRITCHARD
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
 

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect features sponsor David Paddison of Sterling Seacrest Pritchard discussing why SSP invests in community involvement to better understand and serve Savannah, his book “Keeping it Light” (also on Audible) built from “Dave-isms,” and takeaways from the U.S. Army War College National Security Seminar, including confidence in military leadership and an update on his son’s overseas service.
 
The Superstar Spotlight visits the Tybee Island Marine Science Center with Executive Director Chantal Audran and Communications and Marketing Director Jessica Leigh Lebos, highlighting the center’s 36-year evolution, exhibits, community partnerships, and a record-breaking turtle nesting season with public beach stewardship tips.
 
The episode also previews the Savannah Chamber Business Expo with exhibitor advice from Ad Specialty founder Diana Morrison and chamber manager Samantha Wilkins, including a July 23 “More Bang for Your Booth” workshop, lead-generation tactics, and sponsorship benefits.
 
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
Explore upcoming events
From Bert’s Hot Seat: Sterling Seacrest Pritchard
Get the Latest Events: Samantha Wilkins, Small Business & Events Manager, Savannah Chamber of Commerce
Savannah Chamber's Superstar Member Spotlight: Tybee Marine Science Center
MEET OUR PRODUCTION TEAM
MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: STERLING SEACREST PRITCHARD
Follow for updates:
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Show Intro
00:36 Serving the Community
03:23 Writing Keeping It Light
06:32 Army War College Takeaways
10:16 Savannah’s Economic Evolution
13:45 SSP Growth Story
17:47 Superstar Spotlight Begins
18:35 Marine Center Origins
20:25 Turtle Season Tips
23:39 Inside the Exhibits
27:07 Marsh Mural Magic
28:09 Nature Still Surprises
28:27 Loggerhead Rescue Story
30:12 Coffee Chats Preview
32:07 Community Partnerships
35:06 Turtle Friendly Businesses
36:40 Wrap Tybee Segment
37:52 Expo Guests Introduced
38:49 Common Expo Mistakes
39:45 Workshop Details
41:06 Booth Marketing Tips
42:37 Lead Capture Nuggets
43:57 Expo Value For Attendees
45:23 Strategy To Avoid Overwhelm
48:18 Sponsor Benefits Breakdown
50:53 Final Thanks And Sponsors