Ted Cummings: Chamber Chair Challenges Community to Find its Identity - Episode 47

In Episode 47 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Ted Cummings, Chairman of the Newton County Chamber of Commerce and President of Onyx Media. From his journey growing up in Kingston, Jamaica to leading one of Newton County’s most influential business organizations, Ted shares how his company evolved from a reluctant startup into a global AV and media powerhouse. He offers behind-the-scenes stories from working with Coca-Cola, Volkswagen, and the Department of Defense, and reflects on his passion for serving local churches, building workforce pipelines, and mentoring young talent—some of whom start earning $25/hour as stagehands straight out of high school.

But the conversation goes deeper than business. Ted issues a bold challenge to the community: “Decide what the hell you want to be when you grow up.” He calls on Newton County to develop a clear identity rooted in Southern hospitality, reject the East vs. West divide, and embrace intentional, community-focused growth. As a leader shaping the Chamber’s new strategic plan, Ted champions public education, small business collaboration, and courageous leadership. His vision: a Newton County where neighbors do business with neighbors, industries invest in schools, and unity—not uniformity—drives the future forward.