Main Street Business Training Series
Free to Main Street Business Owners
Training Series Sponsored by:
Ray Dunn
Producer | Managing Executive
McGriff | Marsh & McLennan Agency
Ray Dunn is a Vice President, Commercial Producer, and the Managing Executive for McGriff’s (now Marsh McLennan Agency) Middle Tennessee offices. Ray joined McGriff in 2015 as a Commercial Producer specializing in specialty property placements, high-hazard liability risks, and captive placements. Ray takes great pride in being a Wilson County native who is able to support local businesses in managing their risk management and insurance programs. Ray and his wife, Jamie, are originally from Mount Juliet and they and their three children still reside in Mount Juliet.
Grow Your Business with AI Powered Tools with Grow with Google (Virtual Zoom)
Grow Your Business with AI-Powered Tools with Grow with Google (Virtual Zoom)
In this hands-on virtual workshop, you'll learn how to use Google’s AI tool, Gemini, to support and streamline your marketing efforts. We’ll cover the basics of how Gemini works, how to craft effective prompts, and how to apply it in real-world ways to boost your business—especially if you're a brick-and-mortar retailer or service provider. Discover how AI can save you time, generate fresh content ideas, and help you connect with more customers online.
Storytelling & Social Media That Actually Converts with Jason Elkins
Overview:
Learn how to build credibility and community on social media with the Story 5P Method—a framework for powerful, personal content.
Key Topics:
Platforms decoded: Which social networks work for your business?
Reels, Stories & Shorts: Hidden value and how to leverage them
The Story 5P Method: People, Places, Pillars, Programs, Points
Group Challenge: Create a 60-sec Reel in town square (or nearby), edit and present to the group. Prize for top engagement/winner.
Action Step:
Participants will plan and execute a mini social video project using their smartphone and storytelling techniques.
Learn the Basics of Google Ads with Grow with Google (Virtual Zoom)
Learn the Basics of Google Ads with Grow with Google (Virtual Zoom)
Workshop Topic: Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your First Ad
In this hands-on virtual workshop, we’ll walk you through the basics of Google Ads and show you exactly how to set up your first campaign. From choosing the right goals to writing effective ad copy and targeting your audience, you'll learn how to create ads that reach the right people and drive results. This session is perfect for small business owners who are new to online advertising and want to start using Google Ads with confidence.
Customer Service & Repeat Business with Jason Elkins
Customer Service & Repeat Business with Jason Elkins
Build Loyalty. Create Fans. Grow Revenue.
In this engaging session led by small business marketing expert Jason Elkins, you'll learn how exceptional customer service can turn first-time shoppers into loyal, repeat customers. Tailored specifically for small retail businesses, this workshop explores practical, real-world strategies to build authentic customer relationships, increase return visits, and grow your word-of-mouth reputation.
Discover how small touches, thoughtful follow-ups, and service-driven marketing can lead to big returns for your business.
What's Changed with Marketing and Why It Matters with Jason Elkins
Overview:
We kick off with a clear look at how marketing has shifted... From outbound tactics to engagement-first strategies.
Key Topics:
The evolution: We used to tell the consumer what they wanted... Not anymore.
From cold calls & print to content & connection
Why attention is the new currency
Trust and transparency in today’s market - AI is great but we need YOU
Buyer behavior in 2025: Shorter attention, deeper skepticism
Action Step:
Participants will audit their current marketing activity and identify outdated practices to replace with modern methods. We run several hot-seats where we review participants' marketing and make tactical suggestions.
A Castle Heights Historic Places Tour
Historic Lebanon’s 16th Annual Historic Places Tour:
A Holiday Celebration at Castle Heights Campus
Bring the family and join Historic Lebanon on Sunday, December 8th, from 3:00 to 5:30 pm for the 16th Annual Historic Places Tour, a festive event celebrating the rich history of the Castle Heights Campus. This year, the tour is centered entirely on the Castle Heights campus, featuring three iconic locations: the Mitchell House, Castle Heights Military Academy Archives & Museum, and the Lebanon History Museum. In addition to learning more about the Castle Heights history, guests can enjoy holiday treats, listen to Christmas carolers, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and capture photos with a beautiful holiday backdrop.
