Molly Boyd serves as the Tourism Director with the Greene County Partnership, which oversees a diverse array of programs, including the Chamber of Commerce, to youth and adult leadership initiatives, and economic development. Her personal interests in homesteading, hiking, and mountain biking align well with the region's agricultural and historical significance. Jesse Boswell, on the other hand, is the Marketing Coordinator at the General Morgan Inn, engaging in varied visitor experiences from cozy weekend getaways to organizing large corporate and wedding events, showcasing the bespoke luxury that General Morgan Inn offers.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of "Meet Me in Tennessee," host Allie Bynum discusses with Molly Boyd and Jesse Boswell the vibrant tourism and hospitality scene in Greene County, Tennessee. With a focus on the unique blend of historical landmarks and burgeoning outdoor activities that the region offers, the conversation sheds light on the symbiosis between tourism and local economic development.

Molly Boyd elaborates on the Greene County Partnership's multifaceted operations and her contributions to promoting agritourism, agro-based economies, and cultural events like the Iris Festival. Her passion for environmental stewardship and community-based initiatives is evident as she discusses the strategies to attract and engage visitors across seasons. Jesse Boswell shares his experiences at the General Morgan Inn, enlightening us on the diverse visitor base, the inn's role in hosting special events, and his personal enjoyment of the city's historical richness, from presidential landmarks to local cuisine.

Key Takeaways:

The Greene County Partnership plays a pivotal role in diversifying the regional economy, encompassing everything from tourism to youth leadership programs.

Agritourism and local cultural events are significant draws for Greene County, with initiatives like Side Road Saturdays showcasing regional mom-and-pop shops and agritourism sites.

The General Morgan Inn is a unique boutique hotel blending historical elegance with modern hospitality, popular for corporate events, intimate stays, and weddings.

Impact and visitor spending in Greene County contribute significantly to tax savings for households while encouraging job creation in the hospitality sector.

The Firefly Festival, debuting this year, signifies Greene County's commitment to sustainable and ecologically mindful tourism practices, tying in appreciation for natural phenomena with local artistry.

Resources:

-https://generalmorganinn.com/

-https://www.greenecountypartnership.com/

Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media