Big Orange Business

In this episode of the Big Orange Business Podcast, Haley Jones sits down with Morgan Honeycutt, PharmD, CEO of Mac’s Hometown Pharmacies, to talk about what patients often misunderstand about prescriptions, pharmacies, and their own healthcare decisions.

Morgan explains the difference between independent community pharmacies and big box chains, why pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals, and what questions people should actually be asking when they pick up medications. They also discuss medication adherence, side effects, risk versus benefit, and how pharmacists work behind the scenes with physicians to protect patients.

The conversation also touches on ChooseHoney.com, a new wellness platform offering personalized wellness, anti-aging, and weight loss therapies. Choose Honey connects patients with licensed medical professionals and provides custom compounded therapies, delivered directly to your door and compounded by licensed pharmacies in the United States.

Use code BIGORANGE for 10% off your first order.

The episode wraps with a thoughtful discussion on GLP-1 medications, peptides, vaccines, and how to evaluate medical information in a world full of conflicting online advice.

Step inside Fable Hollow Coffee & Bookshoppe in Fountain City (Knoxville, TN) with co-founder Alyssa Stewart for a behind-the-scenes look at how a whimsical, fantasy-inspired bookshop + coffee bar came to life—and what it really takes to grow it.

We talk about the long road from idea to opening (including a 9–10 month buildout), why “Germanic fairy tale vibes” became the brand foundation, and how Alyssa and her co-owner Casey combined book expertise + coffee shop experience to create a space that feels like an escape. Plus: rapid-fire book + drink pairings (hello Faerie’s Kiss strawberry-rose white mocha), underrated fantasy series picks, how they source new books as a frontlist indie bookstore, and what authors should know about getting onto bookstore shelves (including why Amazon publishing can be tricky for indie shops).

You’ll also hear about the community at Fable Hollow—book clubs, author events, Dungeons & Dragons nights, and why shopping small keeps Knoxville’s neighborhoods thriving.

🎧 Listen in, then go visit this magical spot in Fountain City—and support local.

What does it really take to leave healthcare and build a thriving food business from scratch?

In this episode of The Big Orange Business Podcast, Haley Jones sits down with Staci Meyer, owner of The Sugar Queen Creamery and The Sugar Queen Doughnutry, to share the full story behind one of Knoxville’s most beloved dessert brands.

Staci walks through:

• Leaving nursing and healthcare to start a family business
• Growing from a food truck into two brick-and-mortar locations
• Why everything they make is truly scratch-made
• Bringing donuts back after customers waited years
• Staffing, systems, and surviving explosive demand
• Choosing South Knoxville and building a destination business

From donuts and pretzels to ice cream, cheesecake, and ice cream cakes, this episode is packed with real-world lessons on entrepreneurship, community, and building something people truly love.

If you’re interested in small business growth, food entrepreneurship, or local Knoxville success stories, this episode is for you.

In this episode of the Big Orange Business Podcast, Haley Jones sits down with Dr. Wesley Mullins to talk about what most people don’t realize about dentistry — and why your mouth is deeply connected to your overall health.

Dr. Mullins shares practical, real-world advice on choosing the right dentist, the biggest warning signs that something may be off, and why preventative care matters more than ever. They also dig into the confusing world of toothpaste and dental insurance, plus what parents should know about early childhood development and long-term health.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

• The #1 worst thing people do for their teeth (that’s gotten worse over time)
• Why you should “interview” a dentist before becoming a patient
• 3 common signs your oral health needs attention
• How oral health connects to diabetes, heart health, inflammation, and more
• Why dental insurance often doesn’t work like people think
• What “modern dentistry” looks like today — comfort, technology, and patient-first care

If you’ve ever avoided the dentist, felt overwhelmed by dental products, or wondered how oral health affects the rest of your body — this one’s for you.

In this episode of the Big Orange Business Podcast, host Haley Jones explores one of Knoxville’s most important historic landmarks — the Mabry-Hazen House Museum. Joined by Patrick Hollis (Executive Director) and Joshua Loomis (Director of Development), we dive deep into the remarkable history of this 1858 estate, its role in Knoxville’s Civil War history, and why it remains one of the most significant historic homes in East Tennessee.

The Mabry-Hazen House sits atop historic Summit Hill, offering sweeping views of downtown Knoxville and housing one of the largest original family collections in the United States, with more than 2,500 preserved artifacts. Patrick and Joshua share how these objects — from furniture and letters to clothing, china, and personal items — tell a vivid story of Knoxville’s growth from the 19th century through the early 20th century.

We also discuss why the museum is a vital part of Knoxville’s cultural and historical preservation, how it serves the community through educational programs and school field trips, and the many ways visitors and locals can support this historic treasure.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The fascinating history of the Mabry-Hazen House and its place in Knoxville history
• How the museum preserves one of America’s largest intact family collections
• The significance of the Hazen and Mabry families in the development of Knoxville
• Why this site is essential for understanding Civil War history in East Tennessee
• How to visit, tour, and support the Mabry-Hazen House Museum
• Details on community programs, special events, and Knoxville field trips hosted at the museum

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Knoxville local, a heritage tourist, or an educator seeking rich learning experiences, this episode shines a spotlight on one of Tennessee’s most extraordinary historic sites.

Find out more about the Mabry Hazen House on their website: https://www.mabryhazen.com/

In this episode of the Big Orange Business Podcast, we hear Celia Lively, Senior Director of Community Engagement at Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM), and Josh Lively, Director of Marketing & Communications for KARM Stores. Together, they share an inside look at KARM’s mission, the people they serve, and the life-changing impact this organization has across Knoxville.

We dive into some of the most common myths about homelessness in East Tennessee, what KARM is doing to meet real needs with dignity and compassion, and how local businesses and community members can play a part in long-term solutions. Josh also gives a behind-the-scenes look at KARM Stores, including how donations support KARM’s programs and what makes the beloved KARM Christmas Stores such a special experience each year.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The mission and purpose of Knox Area Rescue Ministries
• Who KARM serves and the biggest needs within our community
• The truth behind common myths about homelessness in Knoxville
• How KARM Stores fund and support life-restoring programs
• What makes the KARM Christmas Stores unique—and why the community loves them
• HOW to get on the KARM Stores VIP list!!!

Whether you’re passionate about local nonprofits, community engagement, or simply want to understand homelessness more deeply, this conversation offers valuable insight and hope.

Find out more about KARM by visiting karm.org 

In this episode, Haley sits down with Natalia Havasy, Public Information Officer for East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, to uncover the magic, history, and heart behind Knoxville’s beloved Fantasy of Trees. From its humble beginnings in 1985 to drawing more than 60,000 visitors each year, this holiday tradition has become a powerhouse fundraiser supporting lifesaving pediatric care across East Tennessee.

Natalia walks us through the behind-the-scenes world of designer trees, gingerbread villages, carousel rides, volunteer armies, and the incredible community impact the event has on families across 88 counties. Whether you’ve been every year or you’re discovering it for the first time, this episode shows why Fantasy of Trees is so much more than a holiday event — it’s a mission, a memory-maker, and a lifeline for thousands of children.

🎄 Fantasy of Trees: November 26–30
🎟️ Tickets + volunteering: fantasyoftrees.org
🏥 Support ETCH: etch.com/connect

In this episode of the Big Orange Business Podcast, Haley Jones sits down with Bailey Foster, founder of Real Good Kitchen, Knoxville’s first shared commercial kitchen and culinary incubator. Bailey shares how Real Good Kitchen supports local food entrepreneurs through accessible commercial kitchen space, business resources, and a vibrant community designed to help small food businesses grow.

You’ll learn what inspired Bailey to launch Real Good Kitchen, the challenges food startups face, and how Knoxville’s food scene is evolving thanks to spaces like this. From bakers and food truck owners to caterers and packaged food creators, Real Good Kitchen is helping turn culinary ideas into real, sustainable businesses.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• How Real Good Kitchen serves Knoxville’s food-based entrepreneurs
• Resources available for early-stage culinary businesses
• Bailey’s journey as a founder
• The growth of Knoxville’s food ecosystem
• Encouragement and insight for anyone starting a food business

If you love local business stories, entrepreneurship, or Knoxville’s growing culinary scene, this episode is a must-listen.

Go to https://www.therealgoodkitchen.com/ find out more! 

Q3 Market Update from the East TN Realtors MLS Market Pulse Survey - Hear what local agents have to say about the Q3 Real Estate Market.  Key takeaway: Realtors are optimistic! 

In this episode of Big Orange Business, Haley sits down with Neil Crye, owner of TN Valley Renovation, a trusted remodeling and renovation company serving East Tennessee. Neil shares how his team has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality craftsmanship, personalized service, and creative design solutions that turn ordinary houses into dream homes. Whether it’s a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or a full home transformation, TN Valley Renovation is dedicated to making each project as seamless and stress-free as possible for their clients.

If you’re considering a home remodel or just love hearing about how great homes are built, this episode is full of insights from one of East Tennessee’s most trusted renovation experts. Neil’s passion for his work and his dedication to quality shine through every project his team takes on.
 
Connect with Neil:
Online
[email protected]
865-414-5925