Strong Business, Stronger You: Building a Solid Financial Foundation

Join us for an insightful panel discussion designed to help small business owners strengthen their financial foundation for long-term success. Our expert will share valuable strategies on financial planning, legal considerations, and banking solutions to support your business growth.

Our distinguished panel moderated by Steve Meka, owner of STEM Handmade Soap, includes:

• Kristy Brickel | AVP, Line of Business Learning Lead, Key Bank

• Jay R. Carson | Partner, Wegman Hessler Valore
• Stephanie Flask | Financial Planner, Edward Jones

Key Topics

• Managing cash flow and business credit
• Protecting your business legally and financially
• Smart investment and retirement planning for entrepreneurs
• Building personal and business wealth together
• Risk management and insurance essentials
• Navigating contracts and business agreements
  

Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to solidify your existing business, this discussion will provide practical insights to help you thrive. Don't miss this opportunity to gain expert advice and network with fellow entrepreneurs! Reserve your spot today!

Panel Participants

Moderator: Steve Meka, Owner of

Kristy Brickel
AVP, Line of Business Learning Lead,
Kristy Brickel has been a longtime banker. With over 20 years of experience in a variety of capacities ranging from small business to mortgage and financial education and wellness, she finds great comfort in helping others realize their financial goals. She currently works for KeyBank which is where she has been for the past six years. Outside of Key, Kristy has a great passion for figure skating. She has represented the Winterhurst FSC for close to 40 years where she skated, coached, and chaired their annual competition, Skate Cleveland. She also served as an Executive Board Member for the Greater Cleveland Council of Figure Skating. She currently serves the sport a US Figure Judge and Technical Specialist. Outside of work, Kristy is the proud mom of her two boys, Raymond (7) and Evan (4).

Jay R. Carson
Partner,
Jay represents companies and individuals in commercial litigation matters, including breach of contract and consumer claims in state and federal court. Having served as a legislative aide to the Ohio General Assembly, a law clerk to the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and a Common Pleas Court Magistrate I am able to draw on those experiences in advocating for clients and helping guide businesses through Ohio’s regulatory requirements. Practice areas include: business/commercial litigation, constitutional law and civil rights, government relations, regulatory law.
Stephanie Flask
Financial Planner,
Stephanie Flask is a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments and has been with the firm since 2022. She holds the Series 7, Series 66, and Ohio life insurance licenses. In January of 2024, she earned the Accredited Asset Management Specialist™ professional designation through the College for Financial Planning. An active member in Lakewood, Stephanie is the Vice President of the Downtown Lakewood Business Alliance and is a board member of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. She lives in Olmsted Falls with her family, and in their free time, they enjoy kayaking on Lake Erie, traveling the world, and volunteering.

Don’t miss out on an enriching session filled with actionable insights and networking opportunities with fellow small business owners.

This event is FREE, but space is limited. Please reserve your ticket.

Questions? Contact Lauren Small at the Chamber: [email protected]

This educational series is presented by The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and The City of Lakewood

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Lakewood Public Library Main Library, 15425 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood, United States