Strong Women Strong Coffee Brings Women in Business Together in Corbin

This article is based on reporting by Macee Swafford for the Times-Tribune, “Corbin hosts Strong Women, Strong Coffee event.”

Women in business from across Southeast Kentucky gathered in Corbin on Oct. 22 for Strong Women Strong Coffee, a networking and panel event hosted by the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky at Folktale Coffee & Bakehouse.

The conversation brought together Emily Roberts, executive director of the Corbin Tourism and Convention Commission; Kellene Turner, founder of Kellene Turner Art, LLC; and Angelika Weaver, founder of Good Stewardship Consulting. Dr. Jordyne Carmack, CEO of AuthentiLead, moderated the discussion.

Panelists talked about building careers and businesses, investing in local communities, supporting creative projects and balancing professional responsibilities with personal life. Roberts described Appalachian hospitality as a regional strength. Turner spoke about the lessons that can come from setbacks. Weaver emphasized the importance of making community events and services accessible to everyone.

The panel also made room for a practical conversation about failure. Roberts shared a recent setback involving Octoberfest, which had to close earlier than planned because of severe weather. Turner encouraged attendees to see failure as an opportunity to learn and grow rather than as a source of shame.

The event was part of the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky’s 15th anniversary celebration. Devanny King, the center’s executive director, said the organization has assisted more than 6,000 entrepreneurs through training and business coaching, helped launch more than 450 small businesses and supported $6 million in capital investment across Kentucky.

Corbin Mayor Suzie Razmus proclaimed October National Women’s Small Business Month in Corbin and recognized 2026 as the 15th anniversary of the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky.

Organizers described Strong Women Strong Coffee as a starting point for new connections and future gatherings in the region. The morning’s discussion reflected the value of bringing local business owners, community leaders and resource providers into the same room to share experience and build what comes next.

##