In this episode of Talk Local to Me, hosts Heather and Mike spotlight local events, weather updates, and upcoming business coalition activities. They welcome Andrew from Rhodey Entertainment, a local DJ, photographer, and karaoke host, who shares insights on creating memorable weddings and events through personalized music, photography, and interactive entertainment. Andrew discusses his approach to seamless event coordination, the value of candid photography, and the fun of karaoke nights. The episode also highlights community resources, upcoming events, and the importance of supporting local businesses in Central Virginia.
Transcript:
Absolutely! Here’s how I’ll revise the transcript based on your instructions:
- Change "Bank" to "Mike."
- Remove all last names (replace with first names only, or just remove last names if they appear).
- Change all instances of "Rudy" to "Rhodey."
- Keep only Speaker 7, Heather, and Mike (so only their lines remain; all others are removed).
Below is the revised transcript with only Heather, Mike, and Speaker 7 (now Andrew, if you want to use his first name), with the other requested changes:
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**Mike:**
Yeah, I don't even want to talk about it. I want to talk about. It's been pushed back through Saturday afternoon now.
**Heather:**
So so like what time Saturday afternoon. I need to know. I guess I just need to cancel the party.
**Mike:**
3:00.
**Heather:**
Oh, yeah.
**Mike:**
Well, that's. That was earlier today. It keeps getting pushed back, so I keep an eye on it.
**Heather:**
I'm so bummed. I'm so bummed. Like, so my dollar for those. You know I know y'all talking about my family, but my daughter is 14 and her birthday is December 31st, So New Year's Eve, which as she gets older, she'll realize she's the best party date of the year for a birthday. But like, right now, it kind of stinks because school's out. So it's hard to invite kids to a party and people have like, family get togethers and stuff they do for New Year's.
So we actually have not thrown her a like hardcore party for two years probably. And this year we were doing it. I mean, we were we were having a big old, big old throw down party and now we're having to move it. So I'm sad. She's sad, but I told her it'll be, it'll be fine because she had like 30 kids coming. It was pretty cool, but it's cool. She had people messaging her yesterday saying, my mom said, if you still have it, I won't be able to come now because of the snow.
**Mike:**
So the snow.
**Heather:**
Again, I was like, you're better off us just pushing it back and seeing what we get. And, you know, rolling into February, we'll just keep trying to have a party until we get one. Heck yeah. Let's do it. Let's let's.
**Mike:**
Do it. Jesus celebrates his birthday all December, so we're allowed.
**Heather:**
Yeah, I celebrate my birthday all December Because it's my birthday month. Let me say that to Chris.
I'm like, yeah, it's my birthday month.
**Mike:**
It's my birthday year.
**Heather:**
It's my birthday year. Yeah. I had somebody at one of my kids yesterday was like, are you 49? I was like, shut your mouth.
**Mike:**
I mean, you're getting older. What? Do you have a 30 year reunion this year?
**Heather:**
Oh my God. We do have a 30 year high school reunion coming up.
**Mike:**
I mean, we will not as long as you are.
**Heather:**
We know you're older than me.
**Mike:**
Are. Shut up. But.
**Heather:**
But because we went to school together, I know we have a 30 year high school reunion coming up, which I'm actually pretty excited for.
**Mike:**
Yeah, it'd be pretty cool.
**Heather:**
Of course I'm. Somebody messaged I'm on the planning committee now because why not? Who better to plan.
**Mike:**
An event to do?
**Heather:**
Heather. Yeah, yeah. So yeah. but yeah. So, Brendon, if you're out there and you're listening, you know, make sure you're, you're ready.
We may get two inches. We may get 20 some inches from from what I'm seeing now, I don't know what the newest forecast is. What's the newest forecast.
**Mike:**
You know I don't Okay, cool. I don't want to look at it right now.
**Heather:**
so I'm just going to say we're going to get something and maybe rain, maybe sleet and maybe snow, but we're going to get something. So, you know, make sure that you at least have some food and not I mean, don't go get all the bread in the middle.
**Mike:**
You gotta get.
**Heather:**
There.
**Mike:**
Without milk sandwiches.
**Heather:**
Yeah. Share with others. But, you know, make sure you're you're adequately prepared in case you are snowed in. Kids are already excited. They're thinking a whole week off from school next week. Right. Because that's what my kids thinking. So,
**Mike:**
Yeah, they're saying Lynchburg City Schools is already has already said that if we get what we're expecting, they probably won't go to school till February.
**Heather:**
I can see that.
**Mike:**
Yeah.
**Heather:**
Well, and then if that's the case, Bedford County is 100% following that because we have so many way back roads and stuff. I don't know, way back. Way back. I don't foresee us going in before Lynchburg City. I have heard talk of potentially doing some online like them, having make sure they're bringing their Chromebooks home.
**Mike:**
And that could be.
**Heather:**
Good trying to do some online work, which. Yeah. Yeah.
**Mike:**
We'll see. I'm so old, I'll have to worry about my kids in school anymore.
**Heather:**
So I'm planning. So instead of, like, I'm planning, like what? To cook. But I'm really just planning what to binge watch, right. So how many different shows I want to try and get in while.
**Mike:**
I'm currently watching The Last of Us? It's really good to see.
**Heather:**
I think I've seen no. Yeah, I've seen that. So it's.
**Mike:**
Good. And I had somebody tell me that the video game for that is very good. So if we do get snowed in, I might have to reactivate my Xbox I don't know.
Okay, cool. So.
**Heather:**
Well, we are you. Who? Oh, you know what? Yeah. I haven't even said. But, after four years of people don't know who we are by now, right. I'm Heather Alto with the Central Virginia Business Coalition.
**Mike:**
Mike, with visiting Angels of Lynchburg. Americans choice in home care.
**Heather:**
No Armageddon.
**Mike:**
I just know Meridian got you all.
**Heather:**
Didn't even introduce us today. but, yeah, I'm with the Central Virginia Business Coalition. And just to kind of kick us off today, we have a, you know, we have a, one guest with us today. We're actually going to have probably a little bit of a shorter episode, so we can go out and get our milk and bread. That's right. And be ready for the event. but we have some events coming up. Really want to make sure people are getting these on their calendars. Now we have some really big events that happen. The first half of our, you know, half of the year, coffee talk.
So technically, we're scheduled to have a coffee talk next Friday at the Happy Waffle. We're going to be playing that by year with the weather and seeing whether or not weather.
**Mike:**
Whether the.
**Heather:**
Weekend.
**Mike:**
Plans are happy or not.
**Heather:**
Whether the waffles will be happy for us to come and eat the waffles.
**Mike:**
But if you haven't been a happy waffle at all, they're so amazing.
**Heather:**
They are delicious.
**Mike:**
Their lemon curd is.
**Heather:**
I personally love their press sandwiches. They're my fave.
**Mike:**
I guess they are good. We had those.
**Heather:**
Turkey and raspberry.
**Mike:**
The food episode we had where we ate from every CBC member. I felt like in town. It was so good. I'm still full.
**Heather:**
So that's on the list for next Friday. I will say if for some reason we don't feel that it's safe for people to venture out quite at that time, I'm hoping we will be by Friday. Yeah, but if for some reason we feel like it is unsafe, I am being checked. Make sure you're following our Facebook page, because I do think I will probably do like a zoom, a quick zoom coffee talk so people can still connect because I feel like if I've been stuck at home for a week with nobody to talk to but my kids and my husband, no offense to my kids and my husband and my dog.
I'm going to want to see some kind of people. I'm gonna have to people at some point. So we may we may look at that. But, but our biggest thing is coming up February, we have our annual business dinner, that is going to be taking place on February 20th. And that is an event for anyone in the business community that wants to come out. But we do our nominations. We have about ten different categories for, businesses in our area that can be nominated in. And it's a celebration of our small business and what we've done in 2025. So it's kind of like a year in review of what we've done in the past. And we are going to be at Legacy Auditorium.
**Mike:**
It's a great, great Facility.
**Heather:**
Great facility. We're going to have some great food. the theme this year is denim and diamonds. So that way for those ladies that like to come all dressed up like they're going to prom, you still can. And for the guys that were like, I just want to wear jeans, please do, because it's going to be kind of that mix of of fun and fancy.
**Mike:**
I think Shane and I are going to do like the Justin Timberlake Britney Spears thing. I have like a full denim suit. Oh, and I'm hoping she doesn't listen to this today, but I'm.
**Heather:**
Gonna get.
**Mike:**
A jumpsuit. maybe we'll see. Yeah. So?
**Heather:**
So we're looking forward to that. And we'll have, like, some speakers and we'll be giving out our awards. So tickets are on sale now. They're $60. That includes your dinner. and include some, you know, fun. And, we have a speaker and all of that good stuff. So make sure you get those, because we do have a limited amount.
**Mike:**
If you get nominated for an award, make sure you fill out your forms and send them back in. I've already started on mine, believe it or not, because I know you do.
**Heather:**
And nominations are still open until tomorrow, Friday. They're so open till Friday. See you up till Friday to get any nominations in.
**Mike:**
Is there a snow delay for that or.
**Mike:**
No.
**Heather:**
Because no, there is no snow delay on using your computer and nominating.
**Mike:**
I just got a don't tempt me Mike text for the denim jumpsuit. So. Okay, I gotta be careful what I say.
**Heather:**
Yeah. So that's coming up. And then our lead on summit will be taking place March the 26th. And the theme this year is Power Up. So we're talking about powering up your business, getting ready for the new year. Yeah. we've got a lot of our speakers set. we're still working on, I think 1 or 2. but we do have, Chris McCowan. He'll be speaking on AI in your business.
**Mike:**
I'm excited to hear that.
**Heather:**
Joe Eckert is doing so. Let me actually, I'm gonna I'm gonna.
**Mike:**
So we've got Brian Eckert.
**Heather:**
Yeah. Brian, I'm gonna go back to Brian first. So Brian Eckert, who is a member of ours, and he spoke last year at the event. He's coming back, and he's speaking in the, let's see, his his topic is your business will grow only to the extent that you grow.
So it's basically about growth in your business is actually going to run on your growth as a person and what you're willing to actually do.
**Mike:**
With our goal episode we had a couple weeks ago.
**Heather:**
So I'm really excited for to hear him. And then his brother Joe, who is not from this area, but once you know to come in and speak to our members, he is going to be doing, his leadership for life. What I learned about leadership at work and at home. And he and I talked a few weeks ago, and it was really cool to hear him talk about how the way he would speak to like, a client. Right. And then he'd go home, and then he would maybe fuss at his son about something, or and then he realize like, how much farther would I get in life if I spoke to him like I spoke to a client, or if I use the empathy I do on my kids with a client, you know, vice versa, right? So he's going to be talking a little bit about that.
Okay. so those three we have solidified, Butch Jefferson will also be speaking, but I don't have his topic yet. And then we are.
**Mike:**
Going to win. By the way.
**Heather:**
He's your twin. Okay.
**Mike:**
See it. We have to make sure we don't wear the same shirt to coffee talk because the people get just confused.
**Heather:**
I see it, I see it. So yeah. But that's kind.
**Mike:**
Of, you know, both of us. That's a very funny story. But if you don't come and find out.
**Heather:**
So that's March 26th at the Craddock and Terry Hotel in downtown Lynchburg. Tickets for that are also until they are $75, but that includes the full day, includes breakfast, and includes lunch. It includes all five speakers. normally we have some fun little giveaways and things that go on throughout the day, so it's well worth, your ticket price to come out to that event. And, you know, learn from all of these great, great speakers. And then our Empower Women seminar.
Tickets are on sale for that. That is happening April the 30th. And then our home and garden show is taking place April the 11th. And booth spaces are on sale for that. So we got a lot of things people can go in and take advantage of and, you know, be a part of what we're doing, whether it's business related, community related. We got all the things and that's it. That's all I'm gonna talk about today, because that's a lot of things already. And I'm tired and I have a lot of work to do.
**Mike:**
Right. You got a lot of shows tumbling do this weekend.
**Heather:**
A lot of things.
**Mike:**
To.
**Heather:**
Do. So awesome. Yeah. I'm going to let you introduce our guest.
**Mike:**
Yeah. So, you know, there's nothing worse than when you live in the South and it's generally snow. And somebody from up north or where there's a lot of snow is like, oh, I don't see the big deal. Welcome from Colorado.
So I actually know, Andrew, our next guest from Rhodey Entertainment. So, I heard you sure. You have heard me referenced quite a few times that Shayna and I do a little bit of karaoke. we actually host a karaoke, and Andrew's gracious enough that when we can't do it, he steps in and things like that.
But he also does Mondays at Oliver's and quite a few other places. So let's just start with cool places. People can do karaoke in town, because I know you do it a couple of times a week. So for me.
**Speaker 7 (Andrew):**
Of course I run it at, Oliver's on Vermont on Mondays. That's at seven. of course, Mike, he takes over on Saturdays when I can't do it. Or something else is going on Tuesday, I take care of, kids karaoke. Now that's open to kids and their family.
**Mike:**
And that's a cool family. Family I like. I like the idea. Oh. Big licks.
**Speaker 7 (Andrew):**
Yeah. Big lake. Never heard of it. Real.
**Heather:**
Have I ever heard of it?
**Mike:**
Yeah, I know.
**Heather:**
The owners are personal.
**Mike:**
Friends. Yes, I.
**Speaker 7 (Andrew):**
Know no, it's a fantastic place.
**Heather:**
It's reasonably.
**Speaker 7 (Andrew):**
Priced. Yeah. The one thing that I found, that really got me onto the idea is, you know, I have a I have a six year old.
I also have a 15 year old. And trying to take your kids out to do anything, especially during the week. It's cost prohibitive. And so if you go to a place that is just absolutely fantastic, like Big Lake, then you get a fantastic meal. It's absolutely delicious. The kids have something to do because not only is it karaoke, but I play dance songs for them. Right. Family can be involved and, it's it's very reasonably priced. So you got something in the middle of the week that you can take the kids and it's good, you know, and they burn off energy. They sing their favourite songs. Whether or not that's K-pop demon Hunter or the Zootopia song. it's just a good, energy level all around. Yeah. I love that place. Wednesdays I'm over at the new El 32, aka the 32. Right. It's a Latin bar. It's right next to dish. I do that on Wednesdays tonight at 9 p.m., so we play a lot of Latin and Spanish music between singers.
But if you feel like singing your favorite songs, we don't ban anybody from that. it's a really good time. Very easy to get to a lot of great times there. And then Thursdays I'm over at number seven Rooftop Bar, and that starts at 8 p.m. and that is very high energy. it's a great place, great view. and I mean, if you're looking for fun, definitely join me there on Thursdays.
**Mike:**
Very cool. So that's kind of where people can catch you every week, but that's not really the main thing that you do. So like you do a lot of weddings and things like that as well. So let's start with like for for listeners that may not know you yet, like how did Rhodey entertainment get started? Like what is it and how did you kind of get started in that.
**Speaker 7 (Andrew):**
So, I started Rhodey entertainment. Actually, I'd say probably close to eight years ago when I was still in Denver. I had just left the nursing field and...
Time Stamps:
Podcast Introduction (00:01:05)
"Talk Local to Me" podcast is introduced, emphasizing local stories, business, and community impact.
Weather and Local Events (00:01:30)
Hosts discuss upcoming snow, its impact on events, and personal stories about birthdays and school closures.
Upcoming Business Coalition Events (00:05:23)
Overview of upcoming Central Virginia Business Coalition events, including Coffee Talk, annual business dinner, and Lead On Summit.
Event Details and Themes (00:07:11)
Details about the annual business dinner, event themes, ticket info, and nomination deadlines.
Lead On Summit Speakers and Topics (00:08:58)
Discussion of Lead On Summit speakers, topics like business growth, leadership, and AI in business.
Additional Upcoming Events (00:11:18)
Announcements for Empower Women seminar and Home & Garden Show, with info on tickets and booth spaces.
Guest Introduction: Andrew from Rhodey Entertainment (00:11:48)
Introduction of guest Andrew, local DJ and karaoke host, and his background.
Karaoke Venues in Town (00:13:14)
Andrew lists local venues and times for his karaoke events, including family-friendly options.
Origin of Rhodey Entertainment (00:15:39)
Andrew shares how he started Rhodey Entertainment, his transition from nursing, and move to Virginia.
What Sets Rhodey Entertainment Apart (00:17:33)
Focus on customer service, seamless event coordination, and working closely with other vendors.
Wedding Day Experience and DJ Role (00:19:13)
Discussion on the importance of DJ experience, handling unexpected issues, and supporting couples.
Music and Event Planning for Couples (00:20:54)
How couples are involved in music selection and event planning for their wedding day.
People Skills and Stress Management (00:22:42)
Andrew’s approach to keeping couples relaxed and making the day enjoyable and stress-free.
Keeping Events Fun and Professional (00:25:48)
Balancing fun and professionalism as a DJ, reading the room, and building trust with clients.
Common Mistakes When Booking DJs (00:27:14)
Advice on not focusing solely on price and the value of experience in hiring a DJ.
Karaoke Hosting Skills and Experience (00:29:44)
Importance of microphone skills, crowd engagement, and the difference experience makes in hosting.
Reducing Wedding Bookings for Quality (00:31:24)
Andrew explains his decision to limit weddings to focus on quality and personal attention.
Photo Booths and Non-Dancing Activities (00:36:05)
Description of photo booth offerings as fun, memorable alternatives for non-dancing guests.
Traditional Wedding Photography (00:39:22)
How Rhodey Entertainment integrates DJ, photo booth, and photography services for seamless events.
Photography Style and Flexibility (00:43:28)
Andrew’s approach to wedding photography, focusing on candid moments and adapting to couples’ preferences.
Advice for Choosing Photographers (00:43:28)
Tips for couples on selecting photographers based on style, vibe, and comfort.
Karaoke at Weddings (00:46:43)
Andrew’s experience with karaoke at weddings and why it may not always work for every event.
Favorite and Least Favorite Karaoke Songs (00:49:06)
Andrew shares his go-to karaoke songs and those he dislikes hearing at events.
Favorite Karaoke Singers and Community (00:52:15)
Discussion of memorable karaoke regulars and the importance of energy and showmanship.
How to Book Rhodey Entertainment (00:56:04)
Information on how to contact and book Rhodey Entertainment for DJ, photography, or karaoke services.
Availability and Booking Advice (01:01:35)
Andrew discusses his current wedding availability and advice for last-minute bookings.
Benefits of Business Coalition Membership (01:00:00 & 01:00:04)
Andrew shares the networking and marketing benefits of being part of the Central Virginia Business Coalition.
Episode Wrap-Up (01:03:21)
Hosts thank listeners, recap the episode, and provide information for further contact.
Key Words:
Talk Local to Me, Central Virginia Business Coalition, Heather Alto, Bank Northfield, local business, community events, VI Urgent Care, VHA Orthopedics, health services, personal health stories, snowstorm, school closures, online learning, local events, Coffee Talk, The Happy Waffle, Business Dinner, Lead On Summit, Empower Women Seminar, Home and Garden Show, Rudy Entertainment, local DJ, karaoke host, wedding services, photography, customer service, memorable experiences, event coordination, wedding planning, karaoke nights, photo booth, candid photography, emotional moments, wedding entertainment, community engagement, networking opportunities, local entrepreneurs, business promotion, Virginia health services, family-friendly events, wedding packages, seamless service, personalized experience, booking availability, economic impact on weddings, local vendors, community accountability, wedding DJs, entertainment industry, wedding photography, interactive entertainment, local community support.