Sue Malone is a recognized advocate for small businesses, having helped fund over 30,000 companies since 2010. As the founder of Strategies For Small Business, Sue has authored several loan and equity programs and has ranked #1 in the country for the SBA Community Express and Patriot Express loan programs. She is a fierce supporter of entrepreneurs, particularly those navigating the challenges of capital access.

Brandon Bruce is the co-founder and General Partner of Market Square Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm. He has co-founded several tech companies, including Uncat and Evasive, and served as the Managing Director for Techstars Industries of the Future Accelerator. Brandon is also a founding member of the Knoxville Technology Council and a passionate outdoors enthusiast.

Why This Matters

In the world of entrepreneurship, money isn’t everything, but it certainly makes the journey a lot smoother. In this episode, Chris, Sue, and Brandon dive into Capital Intelligence—the unique understanding of how to make a business not just investable, but inevitable in the eyes of investors and customers. Whether you're an entrepreneur trying to secure funding or an investor seeking the next big idea, the insights shared here are crucial for navigating the complexities of funding, business growth, and strategic pivots.

This conversation covers everything from debt vs. equity to the art of pitching and even managing life-work balance through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Get ready to hear real, actionable advice on what it takes to make a business succeed—even when the odds are stacked against you.

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience is Key: It’s not about avoiding failure—it’s about how you bounce back after hitting the wall.
  
  
• Money Alone Won’t Save You: Your business has to be inevitable in the eyes of investors, and that’s built on grit, innovation, and a solid customer focus.
  
  
• The Power of Storytelling: How you pitch your idea can be the difference between being heard or being overlooked.
  
  
• Capital Is Just One Piece: Investors are looking for more than just a good idea—they want to see that you can sell it, market it, and scale it.
  
  

Why It Matters to You

If you’re an entrepreneur looking to grow your startup, or if you're considering stepping into the world of investing, Sue and Brandon’s stories will shed light on what makes a business not just survive, but thrive. You’ll learn the critical importance of having a solid plan, revenue focus, and the right mindset to secure both capital and long-term success.

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

About the Guests

Jonathan Clark is a multidisciplinary artist, activist, and CEO/Founder of ART.Official Intelligence, a creative agency focused on social impact through the arts and technology. As a member of the Knoxville Mayor’s Maker City Council, Jonathan has played a key role in driving innovation and fostering collaboration within the local creative community. Known for his work as a spoken word poet, playwright, and facilitator of workshops that build bridges in communities, Jonathan’s commitment to cultural expression and social impact has led him to work on projects that empower and uplift underserved groups.

Candice Halbert is the president and founder of YO-STEM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing underserved youth with hands-on experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Candice is also a Scientific Associate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), where she specializes in polymer chemistry and neutron scattering. Her advocacy in STEM education has earned her recognition, including being named one of People Magazine’s 2023 Women Changing the World. Through YO-STEM, Candice has mentored over 3000 students, empowering them to pursue STEM careers and build the skills they need to thrive.

Why This Matters

STEM education is a powerful tool for addressing inequality and preparing the next generation for an evolving workforce. However, many underserved communities still face limited access to these opportunities. This episode highlights the work being done by Candice Halbert through YO-STEM, providing diverse youth, especially girls, cultural minorities, and low-income students, with access to hands-on STEM education that can change their futures.

This episode is for educators, mentors, and anyone passionate about creating a more inclusive and innovative future. Jonathan and Candice share their real-world experiences and insights into how hands-on STEM programs can break barriers, inspire leadership, and empower the next generation of innovators.

100Knoxville is a cohort-based program from the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center that is helping build a prosperous, thriving community by accelerating the growth of Black-owned businesses through the deliberate investment of assistance, mentorship, and capital.

Key Takeaways:

• STEM can level the playing field. Providing underserved youth with hands-on STEM experiences breaks down barriers and creates equal opportunities.
• Diversity drives innovation. Including diverse perspectives in STEM leads to new ways of solving problems and thinking creatively.
• Mentorship is key. Candice’s work with over 3000 students shows that mentorship plays a crucial role in guiding young people to explore and excel in STEM fields.
• Real-world applications inspire engagement. Robotics competitions and similar activities give students the opportunity to apply knowledge, build confidence, and develop critical skills.
• Opportunities are essential. Every student, regardless of th

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

About the Guests

David Harman is the founder of Native Maps, where art and place intersect. His hand-screen-printed neighborhood maps are more than just designs, they are stories—capturing the communities, coffee shops, parks and record stores that make a city feel like home. These maps, sold in stores across the country, are not meant to help you navigate streets but to help you get lost in the places you love. Nearly ten years ago, David co-founded The Maker City, helping build Knoxville’s creative ecosystem and proving that artists and makers can thrive as entrepreneurs. He also runs Sunday Studios, a creative space for artists and photographers.

Siobian Jones is the founder of A Mighty Wig, a custom wig design business that serves both theatrical productions and individuals experiencing hair loss. With a career spanning salon education, Broadway, Cirque du Soleil and independent business ownership, Siobian brings artistry, craftsmanship and a deep commitment to helping others feel confident and empowered.

Why This Matters

Turning a creative passion into a sustainable business is no easy feat. It requires more than just talent, it takes financial clarity, adaptability and a willingness to navigate the uncomfortable realities of entrepreneurship.

This episode is for artists, makers and anyone who has ever wondered, Can I actually make a living doing what I love? Spoiler alert, yes, but not without some trial, error and plenty of perseverance.

A big thank you to Nancy Solomon, a creative leader in Knoxville and co-founder of The Maker City, for kicking off the conversation with a thought-provoking question on what it really takes to build a creative career beyond passion alone.

Key Takeaways:

• There is no cruise control in creative business. Success is not a single breakthrough, it is continuous learning, refining and adapting.
  
  
• Financial vigilance is key. Budgeting, pricing and long-term planning matter just as much as artistic skill.
  
  
• Mastery takes practice. Making a craft look effortless requires years of discipline and iteration.
  
  
• Boundaries matter. Saying yes to everything leads to burnout, true professionalism means valuing your time.
  
  
• Community is everything. The support of like-minded creators can be the difference between surviving and thriving.
  
  
• Selling is just as important as making. A great product does not sell itself, you have to actively put it in front of people.
  
  

Why It Matters to You

David and Siobian bring unfiltered honesty about what it takes to build a career in the creative world. From pricing their work to managing imposter syndrome, they have faced and continue to face the realities of making a living as an artist. Their insights are invaluable for anyone trying to turn their craft into something sustainable.

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

About our Guests

AV Verekar is the founder and CEO of Avero Advisors, a nationally recognized consulting firm helping local governments modernize through technology and strategic innovation. Under AV’s leadership, Avero has been named an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company multiple times, and his expertise in change management and digital transformation has saved municipalities across the U.S. millions of dollars. This year, AV is also serving as Lead Growth Advisor for The Works, KEC’s flagship startup accelerator, where he’s mentoring high-growth founders navigating complex transitions.

Doug Mapp is the founder of ThinkUp, a company dedicated to cognitive development and leadership training. As a board-certified cognitive development professional, Doug helps individuals and organizations rethink how they learn, lead, and collaborate. His Exceptional Professional Framework™ has transformed teams by improving performance, resilience, and decision-making. Doug is also a 2024 graduate of KEC’s The Works startup accelerator, where he sharpened ThinkUp’s mission to help companies develop adaptable, high-performing teams.

Why This Matters

The workplace is evolving faster than ever. AI is changing how teams function, expectations for leadership are shifting, and organizations are grappling with what it really means to future-proof their workforce.

This episode is for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone navigating workplace transformation. AV and Doug bring real-world insights from their work with companies, governments, and growing startups—offering practical advice on how to build smarter, more resilient teams in the face of constant change.

A big thank you to Courtney Jones, founder of MomSource Network and BE Labs, for kicking off the conversation with a thought-provoking question on the biggest AI-driven changes in teamwork—and the human elements that will always matter most.

Key Takeaways:

• AI isn’t the future, it’s the present. Smart organizations aren’t waiting; they’re actively learning and experimenting.
  
  
• Technology alone doesn’t solve problems, people do. The most successful teams focus on talent development, communication, and trust before rushing into new tools.
  
  
• Hybrid work is here to stay, but human connection matters more than ever. AI should enhance collaboration, not replace it.
  
  
• Leadership must be intentional. Growing strong teams takes discipline, mentorship, and a culture of continuous learning.
  
  
• Internal growth fuels external success. The best companies don’t just hire A-players, they develop them.
  
  
• AI can streamline tasks, but it can’t replace emotional intelligence. Companies that balance automation with authentic human leadership will have the greatest competitive edge.
  
  

Why It Matters to You

The world of work is changing, but the fundamentals of great teams remain the sam

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

Deahna Moore, founder of Budgets by Joi
A seasoned entrepreneur and financial literacy advocate, Diana has built her reputation on transforming the way we think about money. With a background in business and a deep commitment to community-based financial education, she’s known for her authentic, no-nonsense approach to budgeting and planning for the future. Her innovative work, from creating engaging workshops to developing personalized financial strategies, has empowered countless individuals to achieve long-term security and joy.

Jonathan Clark - AKA “Courageous the Poet”
Jonathan Clark brings a unique blend of creative passion and business acumen to the table. As a master of the spoken word and a pioneer in integrating AI into the creative process, he has redefined how art and technology can collaborate. From running energetic poetry slams to offering fresh, poetic insights on real-world issues, Jonathan’s work inspires others to think outside the box and harness their creative spirit for personal and professional growth.

Key Takeaways

• Creative Communication: Discover how using poetry and AI can transform personal expression, making complex ideas more accessible and relatable.
  
  
• Innovative Budgeting: Learn the importance of tailoring financial strategies to individual goals, whether for personal security or building generational wealth.
  
  
• Community & Connection: Understand how shared experiences and honest conversations about money can foster stronger, more supportive communities.
  
  
• Embracing Change: Hear firsthand accounts of pivoting through life’s challenges—reminding us that adaptability is key to success in both art and business.

Why It Matters to You
This episode is a must-listen if you’re looking to break free from conventional financial thinking and embrace a more creative, fulfilling approach to life. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone eager to build a secure future, our guests offer fresh perspectives that challenge the status quo. Their stories not only provide actionable strategies for financial empowerment but also inspire you to live with intention and joy, connecting deeply with both your community and your inner creative self.

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

About the Guests
Drew Holcomb is a true pioneer in the independent music world. As the frontman of Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors, he has not only earned over 500 million global streams and sold more than 400,000 albums but has also built an enduring career that seamlessly blends artistry with entrepreneurship. Over the past two decades, Drew has been a leading figure in contemporary Americana and roots music, headlining global festivals like Bonnaroo, Stagecoach, and BottleRock. He’s also the founder of Moon River Music Festival, an event that has become a staple in the Chattanooga music scene, and Magnolia Record Club, a monthly vinyl subscription service. In addition to his musical career, Drew has ventured into the spirits industry with Sweetens Cove Whiskey, collaborating with Peyton Manning and Andy Roddick, further demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit.

Kelsi Walker is a singer-songwriter and storyteller whose music blends raw emotion with indie rock and Americana influences. Known for her authentic voice, Kelsi crafts songs that explore love, loss, and self-discovery. She is also the Director of Communications at the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center and the founder of Free Women Waltzing Club, an initiative supporting paid opportunities for female musicians.

Why This Matters
Drew Holcomb’s career is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and creative entrepreneurship. In this episode, Chris, Drew, and Kelsi explore how finding your people—whether fans, collaborators, or business partners—can be the catalyst for success in the creative world. Drew’s journey spans over two decades of growth, from playing small venues to headlining major festivals and building a diverse set of entrepreneurial ventures. The episode delves into the balance of maintaining creative integrity while navigating the challenges of managing a sustainable business. Drew’s story illustrates how investing in relationships—both personal and professional—has been the driving force behind his success.

This conversation dives deep into the practicalities of building a career in music, including how to diversify revenue streams, balance creative passion with business decisions, and cultivate an audience that’s not just passive, but actively engaged. For musicians and entrepreneurs alike, the insights shared in this episode will provide a roadmap for turning passion into lasting impact.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Community: Building an authentic connection with your audience is the foundation of a sustainable career.
  
  
• Entrepreneurship in Music: Drew’s career shows how artists can leverage their creativity into diverse business ventures, from festivals to whiskey, while staying true to their roots.
  
  
• Investing in Relationships: Success is built on real, meaningful connections—not just with your fans, but with your team, collaborators, and partners.
  
  
• Creative Resilience: In the world of music and business, adapting and evolving yo

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

Hard tech isn’t flashy. It’s not fast. And it definitely isn’t easy. But for the founders who choose this path, the payoff isn’t just financial—it’s deeply transformational. It’s about reshaping entire industries, one chemical reaction or microalgae strain at a time.

In this episode, we’re joined by two scientists-turned-founders who are doing just that—building companies with the potential to change how we power, produce, and grow.

Corey Tyree is the founder and CEO of Trillium Renewable Chemicals, based in Knoxville. He’s raised over $38 million to bring bio-based chemicals to market—starting with acrylonitrile, the unsung hero behind everything from wind turbine blades to LEGO bricks. Corey’s building a commercial plant in Texas, leading a team through the high-stakes world of scale-up, regulation, and investor expectations—while staying laser-focused on execution.

Dr. Nicholas Sokol, founder and CEO of Algaeo, is tackling a different frontier: agriculture. With a PhD in Geography and a DIY approach to prototyping, Nick is creating biofertilizers using microalgae to regenerate soil health and improve crop yields. He’s worn every hat—from scientist to engineer to solo salesman—and he’s doing it all with a 3D printer in the basement and a whole lot of grit.

Why This Matters:

This episode is for builders. For researchers with an itch to go commercial. For anyone who’s ever been told their idea was “too hard,” “too early,” or “too weird.”

Corey and Nick open up about the reality of taking science out of the lab and into the field—from raising capital and navigating regulations to resisting “shiny object syndrome” and staying grounded in the mission.

Key Takeaways:

• Hard tech doesn’t get a version 2.0. Safety, reliability, and execution have to be right from day one.
• Fundraising is performance art. Communicating complex ideas to non-technical investors is its own entrepreneurial skill set.
• Shiny objects can kill your momentum. Focus is a superpower—especially when building something that takes years to prove out.
• Prototypes don't have to be pretty. Scrappy, basement-built hardware can still deliver world-class results.
• Customer feedback isn’t optional. It’s the north star that guides product development, even in highly technical fields.
• You’re not just building a product. You’re building trust, infrastructure, and—hopefully—a legacy.

Why It Matters to You:

You don’t have to be in a lab coat to appreciate this one. If you’re building anything that takes time, patience, and belief—this episode is your reminder that hard doesn’t mean impossible.

Because if it wasn’t hard…
it wouldn’t be worth doing.

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

This is Big Ideas Welcome—season three—where we pair business legends and ambitious founders to dig into big ideas, successes, failures, and lessons learned. I’m Chris McAdoo, and today we’re talking about Why a Strong Brand Matters When Everyone’s Fighting for Attention. I’m joined by two powerhouse entrepreneurs: Bill Malkes and Tommy Nguyen.

Bill Malkes is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and the mind behind GRIDSMART, a company that revolutionized traffic management and took on billion-dollar competitors. 

Tommy Nguyen is the co-founder of StoragePug, a knoxville based company that has transformed the self-storage industry with a customer-first approach and a whole lot of Fun, fast, and familiar personality. 

This episode is about how brands aren’t just logos - they’re promises. It’s about how underdogs win, why customer experience is everything, and how the best brands don’t just tell a story—they become the story. Lets get to work. 

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

Meet Our Guests

Randy Boyd is the President of the University of Tennessee and a lifelong entrepreneur. He’s best known for founding Radio Systems Corporation (the company behind PetSafe, Invisible Fence, and other brands), growing it into a global leader. But beyond business, Randy has dedicated much of his career to education, economic development, and community investment, serving as Tennessee’s Commissioner of Economic and Community Development and playing a key role in launching Tennessee Promise, which has provided free community college to thousands of students. He’s also a passionate supporter of Knoxville’s arts and culture scene—and, of course, a big believer in baseball’s role in placemaking. 

Jaleria Rivera is an artist, activist, and the founder of Spacecraft Knoxville—a creative incubator that describes itself as a constellation of artists, misfits, and dreamers, focused on joy activism and community care. She’s helping build a grassroots arts economy that creates real opportunities for artists to live, work, and thrive in Knoxville. Jaleria moved here during the pandemic, and like so many creative people, she had to figure out how to find her people, build connections, and create opportunities where they didn’t exist before. Spacecraft is the result of that work, and it’s just getting started.

What’s This Conversation About?

This episode is about how people like Randy and Jaleria shape places - and how the places they build shape the people and communities from the ground up. 

We dig into:

• How communities attract and retain talent—and why the arts are just as important as jobs and infrastructure.
• What makes a city feel real—how Knoxville can avoid the pitfalls of becoming “just another mid-sized city” and instead double down on what makes it special.
• The role of failure in success—Randy shares some of his early entrepreneurial failures and why he believes in “failing early and often.”
• The power of grassroots collaboration—how Jaleria and her peers are building an arts economy from the ground up, creating spaces where creativity and economic opportunity go hand in hand.
• Big moves on the horizon—from the UT system’s billion-dollar investments to a stadium that aims to host 700 events a year, including concerts, markets, and more.

A huge thank you to Dr. Marianne Wanamaker of the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs for kicking off this conversation with such a great question: How do entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders get involved in civic life and make a real impact on their communities? That question sets the stage for everything we’re about to discuss.

Why Should You Listen?

If you care about YOUR city, if you care about making your community better, whether you’re an entrepreneur, an artist, a civic leader, or just someone who believes in the power of big ideas, this conversation is for you.

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.

Welcome to season THREE of the Big Ideas Welcome Podcast, where we’re diving deeper than ever before into the world of big ideas. This season, host Chris McAdoo pairs business legends with ambitious up-and-comers to explore the full spectrum of success, failure, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.

From science and technology to art, finance, and education, this season has something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, a curious dreamer, or someone who simply loves a great story. This journey promises to inspire, challenge, and equip you to think bigger and bolder than ever.

Catch every episode on bigideaswelcome.com and on YouTube. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and if you enjoy what you hear, don’t hesitate to leave a review and spread the word. 

Have a big idea or a question? We’d love to hear from you at [email protected] 

Let’s get to work on making those big ideas a reality!

Big Ideas Welcome is brought to you by the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, with special thanks to our sponsors K Brew and Palm Tree Pod Co.

Original theme music "Thinking of You" is courtesy of and copyright ©Kelsi Walker.

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Listen to all episodes of the Big Ideas Welcome podcast, available now on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and at bigideaswelcome.com.

This Big Ideas Welcome podcast is brought to you by Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, hosted and curated by KEC Chief Experience Officer Chris McAdoo, and produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

A special thanks to K BREW for making this episode possible.

Original theme music “Thinking of You” courtesy of and copyright Kelsi Walker.