Business
Chamber Up | A Tale of Two Entrepreneurs Championing Small Business Success
Published
2 years agoon
Elton Hollis, III and Joe Tant team up for a program highlighting small businesses and fostering their growth in the local community.
In today’s fast-paced and often impersonal world, it’s refreshing to stumble upon a story that reminds us of the power of community, friendship, and giving back. Meet Elton Hollis, III and Joe Tant: two entrepreneurs with a shared vision of uplifting local businesses through their innovative “Chamber Up” Program. United by their passion for small businesses and their belief in the principle of doing for others, they’ve created a platform that’s making a real difference in their corner of the world.
The Chamber Up program partners with local chambers of commerce to highlight their members, no matter the size, and does so free of charge. The idea is to help businesses that might not have a massive marketing budget gain exposure, and in turn, thrive. Hollis and Tant recognize the importance of supporting small businesses, not only for the benefit of the business owners themselves, but also for the local economy. In fact, small businesses are often referred to as the backbone of the economy, contributing to job creation and innovation.
The roots of Chamber Up can be traced back to “Small Business Friday,” a weekly radio program Hollis and Tant started in 2019. The show, now a podcast, serves as a platform for small business owners to promote themselves and share advice. With over 3.7 million viewers and a presence on Spotify and 10 other social media sites, the program has become a go-to resource for entrepreneurs.
The dynamic duo behind Chamber Up is quite the pair. Joe Tant, a staunch advocate for small businesses and equitable access to resources, is the Vice President of Finance, Administration, and Education at The Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce, among other roles. Elton Hollis, III, a respected expert in business growth, safety, and training, is the owner of Hol-Tech Resources, LLC, and the General Manager of RT Technical Solutions LLC.
Tant and Hollis both bring impressive credentials to the table. Joe Tant holds a Business Law and Human Resource Management Degree from Cornell University, as well as a Bachelors of Business Administration and Marketing from Baylor University. Elton Hollis, III boasts 26 years of experience in the Oil and Gas Construction field, providing Consulting, Training, Executive Coaching, and all facets of Safety Management and Compliance services to clients in the Industrial, Commercial, and Small Business industries.
What sets Chamber Up apart is the genuine care and interest Hollis and Tant show for each business they work with. They’re not just in it for the publicity or the accolades; they’re in it because they believe in the power of small businesses to shape communities and change lives. And they’re more than willing to lend their expertise, resources, and connections to help others succeed.
Both Hollis and Tant have had their fair share of successes and recognitions in their respective fields. Elton Hollis, III has been featured on the cover of various magazines such as Global Millionaire Magazine, InLife International, and Global Elite Entrepreneur. He was also named in the Top 100 Entrepreneurs in Texas by the VT Post and received the 2022 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics Award for Microbusiness. Moreover, Hollis has published two books, “Creative Problem Solving” and “Buy Into Yourself First,” which outline successful business development tactics.
Joe Tant, on the other hand, has devoted his career to advocating for small businesses, making a name for himself as the voice of small businesses in the area. Tant currently sits on several boards and utilizes the “Small Business Friday” podcast with cohost Elton Hollis to amplify the voices of small business owners. He is also a dedicated father of three daughters, Brooke, Ariana, and Jacelyn, and a proud owner of a yellow lab named Coffee.
One of the ways Chamber Up encourages support for small businesses is through regular events and partnerships. They’re teaming up with Atmosphere, a marketing platform, to promote events in Southeast Texas that drive economic growth. Some of the upcoming events include the Southeast Texas Industrial Contractors Golf Tournament on October 6th, 2023, and the Chamber Up Program with the Vidor Chamber of Commerce and the Sour Lake Chamber of Commerce.
And they have a simple yet powerful message for people who want to support small businesses: Shop locally and commit to doing one small thing for a favored business each week. It could be as simple as making a purchase, writing a review, or giving the business a shout-out on social media. Supporting small businesses each week will not only give you peace of mind but will help the owners and the economy.
Hollis and Tant are shining examples of what can happen when people come together to create something bigger than themselves. The Chamber Up program is not just about promoting businesses; it’s about cultivating a community where entrepreneurs can support one another, share their stories, and grow together. By working with local chambers of commerce, they foster an environment where small businesses can access the resources, advice, and networks that will help them prosper.
The “Small Business Friday!” podcast, which forms the foundation of the Chamber Up program, is a treasure trove of valuable insights for entrepreneurs. Featuring interviews with local business owners, experts, and advocates, the podcast delves into a wide range of topics, from marketing and finance to management and growth strategies. With each episode, Hollis and Tant continue to build a strong community of small business supporters and inspire others to join their cause.
In addition to their work with Chamber Up, both Hollis and Tant are also deeply involved in various philanthropic and community-building activities. For instance, Elton Hollis, III is a co-founder of the Golden Triangle Industrial Group and Vice Chairperson for the Contractors Business Development Group, both of which aim to promote business growth by providing project information to local companies. Meanwhile, Joe Tant serves as the Executive Director of The Port Arthur Education Foundation and the Managing Partner of Southeast Texas Business Referral Group, further demonstrating his commitment to the betterment of the community.
In their personal lives, both Hollis and Tant are dedicated to their families and hobbies. Elton Hollis, III enjoys exploring the Texas Hill Country on hiking trails and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He’s even written a song titled “Kirbyville,” which describes his youth growing up in small-town Texas and how it relates to his life now. Joe Tant, a loving father and dog owner, also cherishes the moments spent with his family and friends.
The Chamber Up program is a testament to the power of collaboration, community, and the human spirit. By dedicating themselves to the success of small businesses, Elton Hollis, III and Joe Tant have created a lasting impact that will continue to resonate for years to come.
To learn more about Chamber Up and the “Small Business Friday!” podcast, check out the following links:
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@smallbusinessfriday6102
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6tV2UBprNnW3iF4uMieBjo
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmallBusinessFriday/
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The Rebel Spirit Behind Premium Accessories Brand Coldfire
Published
4 days agoon
November 27, 2024Speaking with Todor Georgiev, founder of premium accessories brand Coldfire, you quickly sense his deep connection to leather craftsmanship. With more than two decades of experience creating leather goods for the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, he now helms his own venture that’s quietly disrupting the premium accessories market.
“You know, sometimes the biggest decisions come from the smallest moments of clarity,” Georgiev reflects. “For me, that clarity came during a 10,000-kilometer motorcycle journey across Europe. Twenty years of watching mass production diminish true craftsmanship… well, something had to give.”
His voice carries particular warmth when discussing his Ducati Diavel motorcycle, which became more than just transportation – it became the very essence of his brand. “People often ask about the name ‘Coldfire,'” he says. “Look at the Diavel. It’s cold, mechanical precision merged with fiery, raw power. That’s exactly what we wanted to create: strength married to elegance.”
When asked about his transition from craftsman to founder, Georgiev lets out a genuine laugh. “Honestly? It wasn’t nearly as dramatic as people imagine. The technical skills were there, sure, but the vision – that was the tricky part. I wanted to create something that would stand as a rebellion against this throwaway culture we’ve created.”
That vision materialized in 2015 when Coldfire launched in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, a city whose 7,000-year history provides a fitting backdrop for a brand that bridges ancient craft with modern innovation. “There’s something poetic about it,” Georgiev notes. “This city has survived and evolved for millennia. We built Coldfire with the same principle – to create products that don’t just survive, but evolve with their owners.”
The Coldfire workshop serves as both production facility and innovation lab, where Georgiev and his team craft wallets, belts, and bags across six distinct collections: GT Rebel, Snake Eye, Titan Grip, Fusion, Midnight Party, and Tactical Elegance. Each piece represents a marriage between traditional leather-working techniques and cutting-edge materials.
“Take our StrikeCore wallet,” Georgiev explains. “The carbon fiber provides incredible strength while keeping it slim. The kangaroo leather is naturally water-resistant and virtually fireproof. These aren’t just luxury materials – they’re functional innovations.”
His technical expertise shines through as he describes their material selection process. “Every component undergoes rigorous testing. We partner with the world’s leading material producers because, well, compromise isn’t in our vocabulary.”
This uncompromising approach extends to their design philosophy. Each Coldfire piece features built-in RFID protection and minimalist design that appeals to both corporate executives and adventure enthusiasts. “Our customers don’t want to choose between durability and elegance,” Georgiev says. “Why should they?”
Follow Coldfire’s journey on Facebook and Instagram to witness their commitment to craftsmanship firsthand. Their social media presence offers an intimate look into their new and existing products, though Georgiev admits with characteristic humor that he still prefers the feel of leather to the touch of a smartphone screen.
“Every piece we create is a rebellion against the ordinary,” he reflects. “That’s what Coldfire is about – challenging conventions and creating something truly extraordinary.”
The brand’s latest collections exemplify this philosophy. The Snake Eye collection showcases innovative pattern work that catches light in unexpected ways, while the Tactical Elegance line demonstrates how utilitarian features can coexist with sophisticated design. The Midnight Party collection, their newest addition, brings a bold edge to evening accessories without sacrificing the durability that has become Coldfire’s hallmark.
Watching Coldfire’s evolution reveals something special – a perfect blend of ancient craft and modern innovation, guided by a founder who refused to compromise on his vision for luxury accessories. In a world of mass production and fleeting trends, Coldfire stands as a testament to the enduring value of craftsmanship and vision.
Their workshop, nestled in one of Europe’s oldest cities, continues to produce pieces that challenge industry conventions. The brand’s commitment to quality is evident in every stitch, every material choice, and every design decision. This dedication to excellence has earned them a growing following among professionals and adventurers alike who appreciate the perfect balance of form and function.
Looking ahead, Georgiev sees boundless possibilities for innovation in the luxury accessories market. “We’re constantly exploring new materials and techniques,” he shares. “The key is finding ways to incorporate cutting-edge technology while maintaining the soul of traditional craftsmanship. It’s a delicate balance, but that’s where the magic happens.”
For those interested in experiencing Coldfire’s unique approach to luxury accessories, visit their website to explore their full collection. Each piece tells a story of rebellion against the ordinary, crafted with extraordinary attention to detail – a testament to Georgiev’s vision of creating products that truly stand the test of time.
“We’re not just making accessories,” Georgiev concludes. “We’re creating companions for life’s journeys, whether that’s in the boardroom or on the open road. That’s the Coldfire difference.”
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Globe Music Brings Fresh Approach to Background Music
Published
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November 20, 2024Globe Music, an independent record label based in Dubai, is quietly reshaping the realm of background music. With a network of over 250 artists creating instrumental music, they’ve already garnered more than 20 million streams – a testament to their immensely growing influence.
German-born founder Ben Breternitz launched the label after an eclectic career that included acting in German television and designing custom fashion pieces. Now based in Dubai since 2022, he spends his time between there, Bali, and Miami – a nomadic lifestyle (which you can follow on Instagram) that oddly mirrors his label’s global approach.
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Chris “The Beast” Hall Masters Both Combat and Leadership
Published
3 weeks agoon
November 11, 2024When Chris “The Beast” Hall stepped into the ring for the first time as a professional in 1988, the fighting world had no idea they were witnessing the beginning of a career that would transcend the boundaries of combat sports and eventually reshape universal leadership.
Hall’s fighting career reads like something out of an action movie – 69 wins against just 6 losses over seven intense years through 1995. But it’s the knockout statistics that really turn heads: 29 victories by knockout, with a jaw-dropping 19 of those coming in the first round. “In those early days, my focus wasn’t just on winning,” Hall recalls with a slight grin. “It was about dominating every second I was in that ring.”
His exceptional performance and impact on the sport didn’t go unnoticed. In 2009, Hall received one of fighting’s highest honors – induction into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame. But for Hall, this was just the beginning of a much bigger journey.
“Life has a funny way of opening doors you never expected,” Hall muses, reflecting on his transition from the fighting arena to the technology sector. “I found that the same principles that made me successful in fighting – discipline, strategy, and adaptability – were exactly what the business world needed in its leaders.”
As founder and operator of Thoroughbred Innovations in Winchester, Kentucky, Hall has carved out a unique niche in the technology services industry. His company’s focus on small businesses isn’t just about providing web services – it’s about empowering local entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
Hall’s business acumen in the technology sector runs deep. His eleven-year tenure as owner of Lexington’s largest web design and hosting company stands as a testament to his ability to blend technical expertise with strategic vision. Through Thoroughbred Innovations, he continues to build on this foundation of success.
“You know what’s interesting?” Hall points out, leaning forward in his chair during a recent interview. “Today’s industries aren’t just hungry for expertise – they’re starving for real leadership. The kind that understands both the human element and modern business challenges.”
Drawing from his martial arts background, Hall has developed a leadership philosophy that emphasizes servant leadership – an approach that puts team empowerment at its core. “In the ring, you learn quickly that true strength isn’t about dominating others – it’s about lifting them up,” Hall explains. “The same principle applies in universal leadership.”
With nearly three decades of experience under his belt, Hall has weathered countless technological storms and transformations. His adaptability hasn’t just helped him survive – it’s enabled him to thrive and help others do the same. Through leadership seminars, he now shares the wisdom gained from both his fighting career and leadership experience.
“Leadership isn’t something you can just learn from a textbook,” Hall emphasizes, his voice carrying the weight of experience. “It’s about understanding people, understanding yourself, and having the tools to bring out the best in both. That’s what I focus on in my seminars.”
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