About the Guest:

Brandon Bell is the entrepreneurial force behind Risin' Vibes Kitchen, a vibrant food truck and catering business. With roots in Miami and career stints spanning globally-renowned culinary locales like Atlanta, Texas, and Northern California, Brandon's culinary journey is enriched with diverse cultural tastes and experiences. Having built his career from dishwashing to general management in the restaurant industry, Brandon’s unique journey saw him transition from restaurant management into starting his own culinary venture, which prides itself on serving handmade, chef-prepared dishes infused with positive vibes.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the podcast, Colin Johnson sits down with Brandon Bell, founder of the Risin' Vibes Kitchen, to delve into his inspiring journey from a wide-eyed culinary enthusiast to a thriving entrepreneur. Brandon shares insights into how his experiences across various states, from Miami to California, shaped his culinary journey and led him to Johnston City, where he embraced the warm, supportive community. Tune in for an exploration of Brandon's passion for creating soul-food inspired meals and delivering them with love and rhythm, reflecting his deep ties to music and community.

Brandon Bell expresses his deep appreciation for the communal spirit of Johnson City and how it contrasts with his experiences in California. The conversation showcases Risin' Vibes Kitchen's mission — not only in serving high-quality, chef-made meals like their signature chicken and waffles with a unique arepa twist, but also in fostering positive energy and connections through food. Brandon elaborates on his business's vibrant festival presence and his and his team's commitment to nourishing people, whether they're at a music festival or in post-disaster response situations, emphasizing the powerful role of food in healing and community building.

Key Takeaways:

• Community and Connection: Brandon Bell credits the welcoming and supportive nature of Johnson City with inspiring him to open his business and feels passionately about using food as a conduit for connection.
• Risin' Vibes Kitchen: Known for their tropical-inspired soul food, Brandon’s food truck focuses on artisanal, chef-crafted meals using fresh ingredients to nourish both body and soul.
• Festival Culture Influence: Brandon's love for music festivals greatly influences his business model, bringing vibrant energy and good vibes to every event they partake in.
• Personal Growth & Mastery: Brandon discusses the importance of personal development and gratitude, which helped him overcome personal challenges and align with his life's purpose.
• Journey to Entrepreneurship: His unique journey from restaurant management to food truck ownership underscores the importance of following one's passion and taking calculated risks.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Food is a conduit; it's an opportunity to connect." — Brandon Bell
2. "We believe in rising tides raising all ships, and that what we put out comes back to us." — Brandon Bell
3. "At the very root of it, I'm grateful for this breath." — Brandon Bell
4. "Investing in myself through personal development helped me take the leap into entrepreneurship." — Brandon Bell
5. "People want to see their community win and will support those who are actively working towards their goals." — Brandon Bell

Resources:

• Connect with Brandon Bell on Facebook: Brandon Bell
• Risin' Vibes Kitchen on Facebook: Risin' Vibes Kitchen
• Learning Resource: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

For more captivating insights and behind-the-scenes stories about the culinary journey of Brandon Bell, tune into the full episode. Stay connected with us for inspiring conversations, and learn more about the thriving spirit of community and entrepreneurship.

About the Guests:

Eva and Cory Bachetti are the passionate founders of Spa of Eden, a holistic wellness center located in Johnson City. With a background in the beauty and wellness industry, Eva has been drawn to aesthetic practices since middle school, bringing extensive experience in wedding makeup and aesthetics. Cory, originally from Connecticut, shares a deep commitment to holistic health, reflected in his yoga training. Together, their goal is to create an inclusive and rejuvenating space focusing on natural beauty and wellness therapies.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson goes on-location to interview Eva and Cory Bachetti, the inspiring duo behind Spa of Eden. Situated in a beautifully renovated building, Spa of Eden offers a sanctuary focused on holistic health and wellness practices. Colin explores the couple's journey from concept to reality, discovering how they’ve transformed their dreams into a flourishing business providing alternative therapies and beauty treatments aimed at improving the overall well-being of their community.

Throughout the episode, listeners gain insights into the Bachettis' motivations for establishing Spa of Eden. Key themes include their commitment to offering holistic and natural remedies as alternatives to conventional treatments, and their desire to create a healing environment for their community. The episode dives into various amenities available at the spa, such as the salt room, infrared saunas, and the unique cryotherapy offerings and also highlights the significance of creating a restorative space for both individuals and families in the heart of Johnson City. As Cory mentions, “Everyone should build something once or twice. It teaches you a lot of patience.”

Key Takeaways:

• Transformation of Vision to Reality: Eva and Cory transitioned their passion for holistic health into a successful spa business.
• Focus on Holistic Healing: Spa of Eden emphasizes natural and non-invasive treatments, including salt rooms and cryotherapy.
• Inclusive Wellness for All: The spa is designed to welcome individuals and families, emphasizing overall health and happiness.
• Unique Offerings in the Region: As the first in the area to offer certain services, Spa of Eden caters to a growing demand for alternative health solutions.
• Commitment to Growth and Excellence: Both Eva’s high standards and Cory’s dedication to a holistic lifestyle steer the continuous evolution of the spa.

Notable Quotes:

• "I want to have the purest skincare, a space where our community can heal on a real level." — Eva Bachetti
• "We believed in being able to do things holistically… there's stuff that you can do naturally that really works." — Cory Bachetti
• "When you hit that midday slump, it makes a big difference… it really wakes you up." — Eva Bachetti
• "It's for the whole family… if your family is healthy and feeling good, you're going to be happy together." — Eva Bachetti
• "Look no further… why don't drive 15-20 minutes to come from Kingsport, Johnson City. Yeah, we're right here." — Cory Bachetti

Resources:

• Spa of Eden Website: spaofedenco.co
• Spa of Eden Instagram: @spaofeden

For those intrigued by holistic and luxurious wellness treatments, this episode provides an enlightening view into the amenities and spirit of Spa of Eden. Tune in to the full episode to experience more uplifting conversations and stay updated for future episodes exploring the charm of Johnson City and its inspiring residents.

About the Guest:

Meisha Turner is an established entrepreneur based in Erwin, Tennessee. She owns the Magnolia Room, a charming event venue offering a unique space for gatherings and family events. Meisha is also deeply involved in community initiatives, notably as a leading figure in Rise Erwin, a local organization fostering community engagement and supporting local businesses. Having grown up in Bristol, Tennessee and spending time in Chattanooga, Meisha has found her passion in nurturing the vibrant community spirit of both Erwin and Unicoi County. Known for her dedication and enthusiasm, she is set to take the role of the president of Rise Erwin next year.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson welcomes Meisha Turner to discuss the captivating charms and resilient community spirit of Erwin and Unicoi County. As the season’s vibrant colors start to paint the landscape, Meisha shares her unique insights into the small-town allure of Erwin, where she has both built her life and made significant impacts in community development. Amidst the backdrop of recent challenges faced by the town, Meisha highlights the strength and unity demonstrated by local residents and businesses in recovery efforts.

This episode dives deep into the integral role of Rise Erwin, a group that Meisha is heavily involved with. Originally formed to support community activities and economic development, Rise Erwin has become a hub of creativity and collaboration. Meisha outlines the organization’s transition from promoting fun and engagement to orchestrating recovery and rebuilding efforts in the aftermath of the recent storm damage. This discussion also shines a light on local businesses, the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, and the town’s enduring charm and resilience. Listeners are treated to Meisha’s perspective on what makes Erwin an inviting destination and the exciting activities planned to bring even more life and enthusiasm to the community.

Key Takeaways:

• Erwin, Tennessee, boasts a unique blend of small-town charm and stunning natural beauty, offering a perfect mix for residents and visitors.
• Rise Erwin plays a crucial role in community recovery and development, focusing on creative solutions and volunteer coordination.
• The local businesses of Erwin have shown remarkable resilience and community support in response to recent natural disasters.
• Meisha Turner emphasizes the power of collective community efforts and is optimistic about the town’s ability to rebuild stronger.
• The episode highlights plans for upcoming community events, including a large Halloween celebration, fostering unity and joy among residents.

Notable Quotes:

1. "There's something about coming back here. It doesn't matter what season it is. You're going to find some amazing display of color and wildflowers." - Meisha Turner
2. "We're all about just connecting the community in different ways to come up with new adventures." - Meisha Turner
3. "It's literally unbelievable. It is that jaw-dropping kind of thing to look at the before pictures and the after and you can't identify the landscape because it's changed so much." - Meisha Turner
4. "We started putting the word out and got traction with it and we've raised over $250,000 for the community now." - Meisha Turner
5. "I never saw myself living in Erwin…but I've pretty much found all of them again in Erwin, so I'm definitely happy there." - Meisha Turner

Resources:

• Rise Erwin Website
• Social Media: Follow Rise Erwin on Facebook and Instagram for updates and community initiatives.

Dive into this episode to explore how a strong sense of community and collaboration can uplift a town through the power of resilience and creativity. Stay tuned for more inspiring content in future episodes of Johnson City Living.

About the Guests:

Dr. Fred Alsop: An esteemed figure in ornithology and biology, Dr. Fred Alsop has dedicated decades to academia at East Tennessee State University (ETSU). After 48 years of full-time teaching, he remains active by directing the Johnson City Railroad Experience, a passion project combining his love for trains and education. His extensive background includes chairing ETSU's Department of Biology and authoring 18 books on birds.

Carson Sailor: With a background in museum management and a master’s degree from Appalachian State University, Carson Sailor transitioned from North Florida and Boone, North Carolina, to Johnson City, Tennessee. He is instrumental in building the Johnson City Railroad Experience into a dynamic hub for education and community engagement, leveraging his experience and passion for museums.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Colin Johnson's podcast, guests Dr. Fred Alsop and Carson Sailor discuss the vibrant development of the Johnson City Railroad Experience. Dr. Alsop, with his extensive background in biology and passion for trains, along with Carson, a seasoned museum manager, are dedicated to transforming this hub into a central pillar of both community and education in Johnson City, TN. This project aims to invigorate interest in railroads while also preserving and elaborating on the local history tied to these once vital lines of transport.

Delving into the intricacies of the Johnson City Railroad Experience, the guests reveal the meticulous thought behind its development, logos of an engaging community, and the potential promise Amtrak's advancements hold for cities like theirs. The conversation highlights key aspects of the experience, such as interactive exhibits, educational outreach efforts, and community events like "Track or Treat". Through their conversation, Alsop and Sailor illustrate the ways in which the railroad positively impacted Johnson City and continue to be an influential factor in its community growth.

Key Takeaways:

• The Johnson City Railroad Experience offers an engaging exploration into the history and ongoing influence of railroads on local communities, enriched with interactive and educational exhibits.
• The railroad museum supports a deeper understanding of Johnson City's origins, showcasing its historical significance through the lens of railroad development.
• Key events such as "Track or Treat" and substantial museum displays like the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina railroad model bring the community together while educating visitors.
• Educational programs align with state standards and provide hands-on learning opportunities, emphasizing STEAM and humanities curriculum for field trips and school partnerships.
• The emerging support for Amtrak's expansion projects represents a significant shift in public transportation development with potential implications for Johnson City.

Notable Quotes:

1. "We wanted people to have a unique experience, so everything has been designed around the guest experience." - Carson Sailor
2. "We've literally filled up the space we have, which was about 5,000 square feet, and we are open to the public for five hours on Saturdays." - Dr. Fred Alsop
3. "The Johnson City Railroad Experience aims to tell the story of Johnson City through the lens of railroads." - Carson Sailor
4. "As an ornithologist, I haven't written any books on trains, but I have written 18 books on birds." - Dr. Fred Alsop
5. "This is a place where you can come and contribute and be a part of a really beautiful, involved community." - Carson Sailor

Resources:

• Johnson City Railroad Experience

Embark on an exploration of Johnson City’s past and emerging future through the dynamic contributions of the railroad with Dr. Alsop and Carson Sailor. Tune in for more enticing, history-driven conversations in future episodes of this podcast series.

About the Guests:

Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers are the dynamic founders of "The Feisty Pigeon," Johnson City's newest wine bar. Adrian is a certified sommelier with extensive experience in the restaurant industry, having worked in multiple facets from kitchen roles to bartending, and has developed a passion for wine through years of industry exposure. Ddendyl, a musician with a rich history as a performing artist, has graced stages across the country, including a residency on the Las Vegas Strip and an appearance on NBC's "The Voice" as a member of Team Shakira. Their combined expertise in hospitality and entertainment is setting the stage for a unique business venture aimed at cultivating a cultural hub in Johnson City's vibrant downtown.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Johnson City Living, host Colin Johnson sits down with Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers, the couple behind Johnson City's latest venture, "The Feisty Pigeon." As the city recovers from recent challenges, this duo is eager to contribute to the community's cultural and social scene by opening its very first wine bar. Nestled in the heart of downtown, their establishment promises to blend fine wines, art, small plate offerings, and live music into an inviting and innovative environment.

Adrian shares his journey from the Finger Lakes region of New York to becoming a certified sommelier, highlighting his longstanding involvement in the restaurant industry. Ddendyl brings insights from her music career, including stories from her time performing in major cities and on national television. Together, they discuss their vision for "The Feisty Pigeon," aiming to create a space that combines passion, hospitality, and community engagement. This episode offers a fascinating look into launching a new business and the enthusiasm behind it.

Key Takeaways:

• Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers are introducing "The Feisty Pigeon," Johnson City's first and only wine bar, aiming to enrich the community's cultural fabric.
• The establishment will feature a harmonious blend of fine wines, small plates, and live music, with an art component offering local artists space to display their work.
• Inspired by their backgrounds, the couple combines Adrian's wine expertise with Ddendyl's musical talent to create a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere for guests.
• Emphasizing inclusivity, they plan to host events like "Pinot and Praise," integrating music and spiritual experiences in a relaxed setting.
• The Rogers' commitment to fostering community ties is evident in their approach to collaborate with local businesses and creatives to amplify Johnson City's vibrant downtown scene.

Notable Quotes:

• "We love the people. It's just been such a pleasure getting to know the community, and everyone's been so warm and receptive." – Ddendyl Rogers
• "You can open a book and a bottle and you can go anywhere in the world." – Adrian Rogers
• "We want it to be a little refined, but still fun." – Adrian Rogers
• "There’s no occasion that bubbles can’t fix." – Adrian Rogers
• "We are open, willing, and pursuing some collaborations with other local businesses." – Adrian Rogers

Resources:

• The Feisty Pigeon on Instagram and Facebook (Note: Actual URL was not provided in the transcript, placeholder used)
• The Feisty Pigeon website (coming soon)

Tune in to this episode to explore the vision and passion behind "The Feisty Pigeon" and uncover how Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers plan to bring a fresh cultural experience to Johnson City. Stay connected with us for more inspiring stories and insightful content on [Podcast Name].

About the Guest:

Thomas DeHart is a knowledgeable accountant who transitioned from roles in call centers to establishing his own firm, Insight CFO. With a profound understanding of both traditional and modern accounting strategies, Thomas offers innovative financial solutions like the "Profit First" strategy. His educational background includes a degree in Philosophy and a second degree in Accounting from East Tennessee State University. Thomas excels in focusing on service-based and construction industries, providing customized financial guidance to his clients.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson engages Thomas DeHart in an insightful discussion about accounting, entrepreneurship, and the benefits of implementing the "Profit First" approach in business operations. Sharing personal anecdotes from his journey, Thomas highlights the challenges and revelations he encountered throughout his career shift from philosophy to accounting, leading to the inception of his own firm, Insight CFO, in 2022.

Delving deep into strategies for entrepreneurial success, Thomas DeHart elaborates on using specific financial tactics tailored for small businesses. Insight CFO, with its specialization in real estate and the construction industry, offers valuable guidance on optimizing financial management through budget planning, tax strategy, and entity structuring. This episode is brimming with valuable advice for both fledgling and established entrepreneurs seeking to enhance their financial acumen and business operations.

Key Takeaways:

• Educational Path & Career Transition: Thomas transitioned from a Philosophy degree to Accounting, leading to diverse career roles that now fuel his entrepreneurial ventures.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Emphasizes cultivating humility and a forward-thinking approach to be effective in business and personal growth.
• Profit First Strategy: Discusses implementing a multi-account system to ensure businesses manage their finances effectively and with foresight.
• Industry Expertise: Focus on providing accounting solutions for the construction and real estate industries.
• Local Business Advocacy: Advocates for proper management and growth strategies tailored to local businesses in Tennessee, leveraging his extensive regional insights.

Notable Quotes:

• "I'm not afraid to fail. I'm not afraid to give it a shot and do my best."
• "The first thing is budgeting and knowing how much you need to keep the lights on."
• "The challenge is to identify what you can be so passionate about to go out and sell it."
• "Once you attach your value to your time, it clarifies how optimal approaches should be taken."
• "Real estate is what sets you up to be a financial winner in the long run."

Resources:

• Thomas DeHart's Email: thomasitecfo
• LinkedIn: Thomas DeHart on LinkedIn
• Books mentioned include: "Profit First" and "Fix This Next" by Mike Michalowicz
• Insight CFO: Thomas's accounting firm specializing in financial strategies for small businesses

Discover insightful strategies and hear more compelling stories by tuning into the full episode. Stay engaged with the Johnson City Living podcast for more enriching content.

About the Guest:

Cooper Reaves is the Director of Marketing and Government Relations at the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. With a background in advertising and public relations from East Tennessee State University (ETSU), Cooper has progressed from intern to his current full-time role, where he specializes in handling press communications and liaising with legislators at various government levels. Over his career, Cooper has been instrumental in encouraging business development and fostering community connections within the Johnson City region.

Episode Summary:

Join host Colin Johnson as he delves into a robust conversation with Cooper Reaves of the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. In this engaging episode, Cooper shares insights into the chamber's role in economic development, their active recovery efforts following the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, and the revitalization of their 'Region Ahead' initiative aimed at supporting local businesses. This episode not only highlights the chamber's commitment to marketing, workforce development, and business advocacy but also showcases the dynamic potential within the Johnson City community.

Listeners will gain an in-depth understanding of the various initiatives spearheaded by the chamber, including the impactful 'CO.STARTERS' 10-week entrepreneurial program and the 'Young Professionals of Johnson City' network designed to attract and retain emerging talent. With comprehensive discussions on economic strategies, government relations, and the fostering of community solidarity, Cooper Reaves provides a compelling narrative that underscores the vibrant growth occurring within Johnson City. Engage with this insightful episode to learn about the vital roles played by local chambers in sustaining business health and nurturing community resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• The Johnson City Chamber of Commerce has mobilized efforts, including the 'Region Ahead' initiative, to support businesses affected by natural disasters.
• 'CO.STARTERS,' a ten-week entrepreneurial development course, is pivotal in equipping budding business owners with crucial skills and resources.
• The need for event venues and family-friendly attractions in Johnson City presents opportunities for future business development.
• Workforce development and retaining young professionals are at the forefront of the chamber's strategic goals.
• Cooper Reaves emphasizes the importance of community collaboration and government relations in promoting a pro-business legislative environment.

Notable Quotes:

• "We're raising money. We've raised already over $250,000 launched on Saturday. So a couple of days, we've already raised over $250,000, which is going to be huge for our region's small businesses."
• "I love it here. All my family is here…this is where I think the best people in our country are sitting, right here."
• "CO.STARTERS is our ten-week entrepreneur development course…we'll show you. This is how you build your business."
• "We're not your granddad's chamber anymore…we say it a lot…we're just really diving into what affects businesses right now, and that's AI marketing, technology trainings."
• "Knowing that we live in a community that stands shoulder to shoulder, arm to arm, understands the definition of what a neighbor is, understands what a community is supposed to be about."

Resources:

• Region Ahead Initiative
• Johnson City Chamber of Commerce: Website
• CO.STARTERS Program
• Young Professionals of Johnson City
• Cloudwise Academy

Dive into the full episode to explore these themes and understand how the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce is making strides towards economic growth and community resilience. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the podcast series!

About the Guest:

Emily Sikora\ Emily Sikora is a dynamic entrepreneur and the owner of two flourishing businesses, Gray Bird Label and TriStar Trading. With a background in exercise science and occupational therapy, Emily transitioned from the healthcare industry to the world of fashion and online commerce. She founded Gray Bird Label in 2016, which has grown from an online boutique to a manufacturer and wholesaler of fashion accessories across the globe. Alongside Johnny Bragg, Emily also co-owns TriStar Trading, a merchandise business catering to YouTubers and online influencers. Her journey showcases her adaptability, drive, and resourcefulness in navigating business challenges and scaling her ventures.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Emily Sikora, a successful entrepreneur from Johnson City, to discuss her journey and the growth of her businesses, Gray Bird Label and TriStar Trading. They begin by reflecting on the local charm of Johnson City, with Emily highlighting how her appreciation for the area grew as she started raising her children there. She particularly enjoys the vibrant community, good schools, and numerous festivals and events.

Emily delves into the origins of Gray Bird Label, which started as an online boutique selling women's clothes and accessories. She explains how the business scaled rapidly, transitioning from Facebook groups to an online store with both an app and a website. Facing the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, she pivoted Gray Bird into manufacturing and wholesaling unique fashion accessories like earrings, purses, and bathrobes to stores across the country and the world. Emily also talks about her other venture, TriStar Trading, which she co-founded with Johnny Bragg to provide merchandise for YouTubers. The episode is a deep dive into Emily’s entrepreneurial journey, filled with actionable insights and inspiration for aspiring business owners.

Key Takeaways:

• Adapt and Pivot: Emily’s successful transition from retail to wholesale manufacturing highlights the importance of adaptability in business.
• Leveraging Social Media: Connecting with manufacturers and customers through platforms like Instagram can significantly foster business growth.
• Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Emily shares how entrepreneurship allows her to maintain a flexible schedule that accommodates both her business and family needs.
• Community Support: Building a strong local customer base can facilitate initial business growth and sustain long-term success.
• Business Partnerships: Effective collaboration, as seen with TriStar Trading, can bring complementary strengths together and drive a business forward.

Notable Quotes:

• "I needed a little more for my brain than just being home all the time."
• "A lot of the stuff that I worked really hard learning with Gray Bird, I've been able to put into use with TriStar."
• "It's a balancing act. You gotta think really, at least probably, six months out."
• "There is not a manual for how to start and run a business. It just doesn’t exist."
• "I have a heart for other people that are interested in owning a business. I don't think that you have that inkling inside of you for no reason."

Resources:

• Gray Bird Label Website
• Gray Bird Label Instagram
• TriStar Trading Website
• TriStar Trading Instagram

For an in-depth look at Emily’s entrepreneurial insights and to hear more about her journey, tune into the full episode. Stay tuned to the podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice from local business leaders.