On this episode of the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast, we’ve got Cat Babbie here in the studio with us. Cat is a celebrated fiber artist and entrepreneur whose innovative work is redefining the boundaries of textile and mixed media art. Based here in the Carolinas, Cat explores texture, color, and form, often weaving personal narratives into her work. In addition to exhibiting her art, she brings a spirit of entrepreneurship to her creative journey, connecting with communities through workshops, collaborative projects, and a thriving online portfolio of original fiber art. 

Cat was a featured artist in the ArtPop Street Gallery – we’ll talk about that in a minute. And, she’s also working to help other creatives get their creative careers on track. Cat, welcome to the show… 

Welcome back to the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast. Our guest today is entrepreneur, athlete, and inspiration– Carson Clough. Carson is the co-founder of Giddy Goat Coffee Roasters, a local favorite coffee company known for its community focus and high-quality coffee craft. Prior to his entrepreneurial journey, Carson was a collegiate lacrosse player at Carolina and Florida Tech. Things changed dramatically after a life-altering accident that led to the loss of his leg. But that didn’t stop him.

In addition to growing Giddy Goat into a thriving brand, Carson is also a world-class Paralympic triathlete, proving that challenges are just another starting line. His story of perseverance, passion, and purpose has inspired many in Charlotte and beyond. Today, we’ll explore the intersection of sports, entrepreneurship, and overcoming obstacles as Carson shares insights from his unique life and career.

Welcome back to the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast. We’ve got Jason Dumas with us in the studio. He’s the principal and founder of FLICK Studios, one of Charlotte’s premier creative production companies.

Welcome back to the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast. We’ve got Courtney Oates and Mark Fontanilla with us. Courtney Oates is Marketing and Events Director at Nourish Up, and Mark Fontanilla is Event Director for Tour de Turns.

The Tour de Turns is a late summer staple, and one of Charlotte’s most loved charity bike rides. The event not only invites riders of all experience levels to explore the city’s neighborhoods but, most importantly, raises critical funds for Nourish Up and its programs to feed folks here in Charlotte. 

On this episode of the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Mark Treichler, from Classic Speed and Custom. Mark and his team are the go-to guys for building, restoring, and repairing classic vehicles and performance engines.  

Classic Speed and Custom has earned a reputation for quality and customer satisfaction—serving automotive enthusiasts and collectors who demand the best. Mark, welcome to the show! 

On this episode of the BrandBuilders Podcast, we’re honored to welcome MaShonna Hughes, Executive Director and Chief Dignity Officer at Project Outpour. MaShonna is a compassionate, visionary leader with over a decade of experience in the nonprofit and government sectors, and a relentless dedication to social justice, equity, and restoring dignity in her community. Under her leadership, Project Outpour provides free mobile shower access and hygiene services to individuals experiencing homelessness across Charlotte. Project Outpour serves five locations weekly, providing showers, fresh clothes, and hygiene kits—all with the belief that being clean is a catalyst for change. 

On this episode of the BrandBuilders Podcast, we’ve got Garrett Summers, CPA and Owner at Foard and Company. If you don’t know, Foard and Company is an accounting firm serving Charlotte and the surrounding region for over 50 years. Garrett brings a wealth of experience in audit and tax services, with a particular focus on not-for-profit organizations and churches. Since joining the firm in 2012 and becoming an owner in 2020, Garrett has played a key role in upholding the firm’s commitment to quality, trust, and client relationships. Garrett – welcome to the program!

Today on the BrandBuilders Podcast, we’ve got Ben Levenbaum, founder and CEO of Xceleration here with us. Xceleration has been a major player in enterprise rewards and recognition for over 25 years. Under Ben’s leadership, Xceleration has built a global reputation for its innovative, scalable technology—most notably the RewardStation platform. We’re looking forward to hearing about that one, too!

On the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast, we have David Walker with us, he’s the Commercial Development Officer at Standard Title. As the Southeast’s first specialized commercial title insurance agency, Standard Title empowers clients to secure and finance commercial real estate with confidence. In his role, David plays a key part in driving business growth and building partnerships, leveraging his expertise to help clients navigate complex commercial real estate transactions. We’re talking real estate on this episode of the BrandBuilders Podcast!

On this episode of the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Dave Holtzman, President and Partner at Search Solution Group. If you don’t know yet, Search Solution Group is a leading full-service recruiting, staffing, and executive search firm with over 20 years of success.
Dave plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s mission to connect organizations with uniquely qualified candidates across a wide range of industries, including Accounting, Finance, Engineering, IT, Marketing, and more. Under Dave’s leadership, Search Solution Group has built a reputation for integrity, responsiveness, and teamwork — values that have helped them become one of the nation’s top recruitment firms. Dave thanks for being on the program!