Beyond Rockets

In this special re-release episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with Mike Wicks—Huntsville native, fourth-generation rocket scientist, and serial entrepreneur.

Mike takes us through his journey from mechanical engineering at Auburn to co-oping with the Army, launching and selling multiple defense contracting firms, and building I³ into one of the nation’s fastest-growing government contractors. He shares insight on leadership, company culture, and how forward-thinking strategy helped him scale businesses that continue to impact national security and innovation.

We also dive into the mission behind I³ Cares, how employee ownership transformed company culture, and why the Wicks Family Foundation is focused on building long-term, systemic change in the Huntsville community—from youth sports and healthcare to STEM and the Botanical Garden.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, engineer, or community builder, this episode is packed with lessons on vision, values, and the power of giving back.

🎧 Listen now to learn why mindset matters, why the future belongs to the competent—and how to create something significant, not just successful.

Watch:

https://youtu.be/eqGa8cBr9NI?si=7pbW11sOzxtsyq9-

🎶 We get it—not every band will be your favorite. But that’s not the point. The After 5 Concert Series at Campus No. 805 is all about the experience. Good food, local vendors, great drinks, and a laid-back spot to hang with friends—even if you’ve never heard the band before, you might walk away with a new favorite.

In this episode, we sit down with Alka Chain, owner of Vintage Cigar Lounge and Nitro Tails, to explore her journey as a Huntsville native and lifelong entrepreneur. From growing up in the iconic Madison Square Mall to building Huntsville’s first cigar lounge, Alka shares how her family's deep roots in small business shaped her passion for hospitality and experience-driven retail. We talk about the evolution of cigar culture in Huntsville, the rise of bourbon and cigar pairings, and how Vintage Cigar Lounge is leading the way with education, exclusive selections, and a welcoming environment for all—especially women new to the cigar scene. Plus, Alka dives into their expansion to Virginia and the launch of Nitro Tails, a five-year dream brought to life in just nine months.

🎙️ Whether you're a cigar aficionado, a bourbon lover, or a fellow entrepreneur, this episode is packed with inspiration, insights, and stories of growth.

http://www.vintage-cigarlounge.com

https://www.instagram.com/vintage_cigar_lounge/

SponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

In this episode, we sit down with Chef Kristen, Executive Chef and General Manager of The Poppy & Parliament and The Salty Cod. She shares her journey from getting her start in a small New York restaurant at 14 to building two standout culinary destinations in North Alabama. We dive into her unexpected path through food science and government research, how she landed in Huntsville during the height of the pandemic, and the grit it took to open The Poppy & Parliament in 2020. Kristen walks us through the challenges of staffing, building a menu from scratch, and creating a pub-style experience that transports guests straight to the U.K. Plus, we explore the expansion to Athens with The Salty Cod, the in-house butcher shop, and what it’s like managing both kitchens day-to-day. If you're into culinary creativity, behind-the-scenes restaurant stories, or just love a good food-driven conversation, this one’s for you.

https://www.thepoppyandparliament.com

https://www.instagram.com/poppyandparliament/

Sponsor

Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.

Music

Any Day by Them Damn Dogs

⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

This episode originally aired in 2021. We sat down to talk with Bill Roark co-founder of Torch Technologies which is a 100% employee-owned system engineering, applied science, modeling & simulation, and information technology business. We discuss his background before Torch, the early years of Torch, and the ways in which Torch is looking to give back to the community for years to come.

In this episode, we sit down with Tim and Oscar, the duo behind Nicas Grill, a Nicaraguan-American fusion food truck that’s become a favorite across Huntsville and Madison. Tim and Oscar share how they transitioned from full-time careers to building a family-run business that’s now a regular at NASA, Research Park, and The Orion Amphitheater. They discuss their culinary roots, the evolution of their menu, and how they tailor their offerings to different events and audiences. From meeting music legends to supporting local festivals, this conversation is packed with stories, advice for aspiring food truck owners, and a glimpse into what’s next for Nicas Grill—including their plans to build a commissary and expand their community footprint.

https://nicasgrillcafe.com

https://www.instagram.com/nicasgrillcafe/

SponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

In this episode, we sit down with Cody Morgan and Jamie Muñoz, the powerhouse duo behind Octo Hospitality and Blue Oak BBQ in Huntsville’s MidCity District. Originally from New Orleans, Cody and Jamie share how their early roots in the restaurant industry shaped their approach to hospitality, community, and culture.

We dive into their journey from Bourbon Street to North Alabama, their first impressions of Huntsville, and the serendipitous meeting that led to their now-signature events at The Camp. From the explosive success of their first Mardi Gras Day celebration to Crawfish Fest and the WhistleStop BBQ Festival, they talk about building experiences that go beyond food—and the “gumbo effect” that makes it all feel special.

You’ll also hear about the launch of Blue Oak in MidCity, their plans for the restaurant inside the new Hotel Indigo, and how they’ve built teams that live and breathe hospitality. Plus, they reflect on how a single book—Unreasonable Hospitality—helped shape their leadership style and guest philosophy.

Whether you’re in the restaurant industry or just love good food and great stories, this episode is packed with insights on growth, grit, and giving people more than they expect.

Sponsor

Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.

Music

Any Day by Them Damn Dogs

⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

Huntsville’s history is full of fascinating stories—some well-known, others nearly forgotten. In this episode, we sit down with SuAnne Griffith, creator of Lily Flagg's Signal Podcast, to talk about her passion for uncovering the city’s past. From growing up in small-town Gurley to earning multiple engineering degrees and even teaching as a professor, Su Ann’s journey eventually led her back to Huntsville, where she now shares local history through podcasting, social media, and community storytelling.

We dive into the research behind her episodes, the challenges of separating fact from legend, and some of Huntsville’s most intriguing historical figures and landmarks—including the Russel Erskine Hotel, the Times Building, and the surprising backstory of Alabama A&M’s founder, Dr. William Hooper Councill. Whether you're a lifelong Huntsvillian or new to the city, this conversation will change the way you see the streets, buildings, and history all around you.

Tune in to learn more about Huntsville’s hidden past and find SuAnne’s work at Lily Flagg's Signal Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and social media!

Sponsor

Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.

Music

Any Day by Them Damn Dogs

⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

In this episode, we sit down with Ashli and Michaela of AM Collective to talk about their journey from childhood friends to business partners, growing their creative space from a small shop in Clinton Row to their expansive new storefront in South Huntsville. They share how their impulsive decision to start a business, their deep-rooted connection to the Huntsville community, and a few unexpected twists along the way led them to where they are today.

From navigating business growth during the pandemic to building a thriving creative hub for local artists, Ashley and Mikayla discuss the challenges, wins, and the importance of having a landing space for creatives. Plus, they reveal their plans for 2025, including upcoming markets, artist collaborations, and a secret event in the works.

Discover more about AM Collective:

🌎 Website: amcollectivehuntsville.com

📷 Instagram: @amcollectivehuntsville

Tune in now to hear their story and what’s next for Huntsville’s growing creative scene!

In this episode, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle shares his journey of calling Huntsville home for over 40 years and reflects on the city’s growth and transformation. He discusses the unique blend of lifelong residents and newcomers who contribute to Huntsville’s dynamic community. Mayor Battle highlights how the city thrives when everyone, from planners to everyday citizens, plays a role in shaping its future. We explore how ideas from other communities help drive progress while preserving what makes Huntsville special. Tune in for an insightful conversation about leadership, collaboration, and the magic that happens when a city comes together.

Sponsor

Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.

Music

Any Day by Them Damn Dogs

⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w