Making It in the South Sound
<p>Making it in the South Sound will introduce you to some of the most innovative and exciting South Sound businesses, large and small. We'll find out who they are, the challenges they face, and the success they achieved. You will hear from South Sound business leaders to get insights into their experiences working with some of the most dynamic local organizations.</p>
All Episodes
Building a Brand, Shaping a City. With Umi Wagoner.
On this episode of The Chamber Pod, we're joined by Umi Wagoner, co-creator of eTc Tacoma and founder of Umi’s Corner, for a conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, community, and finding the freedom to build what inspires you. Umi shares the story behind eTc Tacoma, the streetwear brand he launched with co-founder Perris Wright more than a decade ago. What began as a niche idea rooted in Tacoma culture has grown into a recognizable part of the city’s creative identity, with eTc becoming known for its limited-release collections and distinctive celebration of the 253. We explore what it means to build a business in the community where you grew up and how Tacoma has influenced Umi’s creative perspective. He shares insight into his creative process at eTc, from imagining an idea to executing it in a way that communicates with and resonates across Tacoma’s diverse community. Umi also reflects on the importance of collaboration and the relationships he has built with other Tacoma businesses and organizations. He discusses eTc’s collaborations and the opportunities that have allowed the brand to connect fashion, art, and culture in new ways, including eTceTera’s 2021 partnership with the Tacoma Art Museum and The Kinsey Collection for a five-month pop-up exhibition. The collaboration brought eTceTera’s work alongside The Kinsey Collection, one of the largest collections of African American art owned by a Black family, creating a unique intersection of fashion, art, and cultural storytelling. At the heart of the conversation is Umi’s connection to the next generation of Tacoma creatives. He reflects on growing up in the city, the people and experiences that shaped him, and his hope that the things he creates can help nurture other young people who are searching for their own creative path. Umi also shares a piece of unforgettable advice for anyone thinking about starting something of their own: “You start with doing it, not necessarily discussing it.” His perspective offers a powerful reminder that sometimes the first step isn't having everything figured out—it’s simply taking action. Whether discussing streetwear, entrepreneurship, collaboration, creativity, or the future of Tacoma, Umi’s story is a reminder that some of the most meaningful things we build come from following our curiosity, taking the shot, and creating space for others to discover what inspires them.
The NW Seaport Alliance: An Update on the South Sound's Economic Giant
<p>Join us as Mike Fowler, Executive Director of the World Trade Center Tacoma, talks with John Tullis, Sr. Business Development Director at the NW Seaport Alliance. John gives us insights into how things are going with the Ports since the disruptions caused by COVID, what changes the ports have been seeing in supply chain and demand over the past few months, and what trends we should expect as we move forward.The NW Seaport Alliance is a crucial marine operating partnership of the ports of Tacoma and Seattle, the first of its kind in North America.This strategic partnership is a perfect example of how we truly are stronger together presenting a unified and competitive advantage securing more economic opportunities for Tacoma and the region.The Chamber is proud to have the NW Seaport Alliance as a member of our business community. Partnerships like this are the key to success in making the South Sound the most equitable, inclusive, and thriving place to do business.</p>
MagnumOpus: Bringing LA Movie Making to the South Sound
In this episode, Derek Nunn, founder of MagnumOpus Productions, tells us about his film-making journey, from Tacoma, to LA, and back to Tacoma. Even though there may be challenges, Derek is clear about why he finds the South Sound a great place to launch a creative business. Join guest hosts Raf Bah of Bahlake Family Group and Shonta Riles of Poppin Notary as they welcome Derek to the microphone.
Ocean5: Entertainment with an Eye on the Environment
From their building, to their product sourcing, to the food they serve, Ocean5 is thoughtful and intentional in considering their environmental impact. Find out what's going on at this one-of-a-kind Gig Harbor fun and events space. And learn what advice they have for other businesses who want to be improve their environmental footprint.Join guest host, Jon Rossman, Chair Elect of the Chamber Board and President & Owner of Chuckals Office Products, and Sarah Michael, General Manager at Ocean5 for this captivating episode.