Getting to Know Hendo

At just 27 years old when first elected, Mayor Preston Blakely made history as one of the youngest mayors in North Carolina—and he’s been making an impact ever since. Serving the town of Fletcher, NC with energy, vision, and a strong sense of community, Mayor Blakely brings a fresh perspective to local government while staying grounded in the values that make Fletcher special.

With a background in political science and public administration, Preston is passionate about transparency, inclusion, and smart growth. He’s committed to making Fletcher a place where all residents feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether he’s at a town hall meeting, connecting with neighbors at a local event, or advocating for the town at the regional level, his leadership is marked by accessibility and authenticity.

When he’s not serving the people of Fletcher, you might catch him enjoying the outdoors, staying active in local civic groups, or continuing his education in public policy.

Mayor Preston Blakely is part of a new wave of leadership in Henderson County—and he’s just getting started.

Contact:  [email protected]

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🎶 Featured Artist – Hope Griffin
This episode of Getting to Know Hendo features the soulful sounds of Hope Griffin, a Hendersonville-based singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and dynamic blend of folk, rock, and blues. Whether she’s performing solo or with her full band, Hope brings an authenticity that resonates with every audience. Tune in to hear her story and discover where you can catch her live!

Follow and Stream:

https://www.hopegriffinmusic.com/

Hope Griffin - YouTube

@HopeG_Music

You can reach out to your host at [email protected]

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Annamarie Jakubielski — a dynamic business owner, dedicated community leader, and passionate advocate for local connection in Hendersonville, North Carolina. As the publisher of Discover Hometown, a quarterly direct mail magazine reaching 15,000 homes, Annamarie plays a key role in helping small to medium-sized businesses grow through effective, targeted advertising.

But her impact goes far beyond business. Annamarie has long been a pillar of service in the community, including her involvement as Director of the Bounty of Bethlehem — a beloved Christmas Day tradition serving the Henderson County community for over 30 years. Her efforts have earned her recognition as a George Real Estate Group Hometown Hero and continue to inspire those around her.

Join us as we dive into Annamarie’s story, her vision for a more connected and thriving Hendersonville, and how she balances entrepreneurial drive with a heart for service. This is one episode you don’t want to miss!

📣 Connect with Annamarie Jakubielski
Publisher | Community Leader | Local Advocate

🌐 Website: www.discoverhometown.com
📧 Email: [email protected]

 📍 Based in Hendersonville, NC

Follow Discover Hometown for local business features and services!

🎶 Intro/Outro music
Featuring music by Izzi Hughes – a Hendersonville native whose powerful voice and passion for music have made her a standout in the WNC music scene. From local stages to Nashville and back, we're proud to have her sound kick off and close out this episode of Getting to Know Hendo.

 🎧 Follow Izzi on Instagram @izzihughesmusic and stream her songs wherever you listen to music! 

You can reach out to your host at [email protected]

We’re thrilled to welcome Bryan Byrd, the passionate owner of Flat Rock Cinema, to our podcast! Known for his warm, community-driven approach, Bryan has transformed his theater into more than just a place to watch movies—it’s a gathering spot where film lovers feel at home. His outgoing personality and genuine love for cinema are evident in every aspect of the business, from his curated film selections to the personal connections he builds with moviegoers.

Beyond the big screen, Bryan is the driving force behind the Magnolia Concert Series, a beloved event that brings live music to the cinema stage. By blending film, music, and community engagement, he has created a one-of-a-kind cultural hub where entertainment thrives.

Join us as we chat with Bryan about his journey in the film industry, what makes Flat Rock Cinema unique, and how he’s fostering a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for movie lovers and performers alike!

Email address: [email protected]
Website: FlatRockCinema.com
Social Media links: @FlatRockCinema (FB, Insta, X)

Ryan Taylor Price is a talented musician from Western North Carolina, known for his soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics. Blending elements of folk, Americana, and indie rock, Price's music resonates with authenticity and emotion, capturing the beauty of his mountain roots. His powerful voice and skillful guitar playing have earned him a dedicated following in the region. Whether performing solo or with his band, Ryan Taylor Price consistently delivers captivating live performances, showcasing his ability to connect deeply with audiences through both his music and storytelling. His contributions to the local music scene continue to inspire and influence fans and fellow artists alike.

Website: www.ryantaylorprice.com
Social Media links: 
https://www.instagram.com/ryantaylorprice/#https://www.youtube.com/@RyanTaylorPrice

You can reach out to your host at [email protected]

Lyn Mabry is a passionate and dedicated interior designer whose career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to following her heart and pursuing her true passions. With over 20 years of invaluable experience in the realm of high-end boutique hotels, Lyn honed her skills in creating luxurious and inviting environments that cater to the needs and desires of discerning guests. Her extensive background in the hospitality industry provided her with a unique perspective on design, emphasizing not only aesthetics but also functionality and comfort. This rich experience laid the groundwork for her subsequent transition into an innovative project that combined her expertise in hospitality with her innate design talents: a luxury pet boarding facility in Nashville. This endeavor allowed Lyn to blend her love for design with her passion for animals, creating a space that was not only visually stunning but also comfortable and accommodating for pets and their owners alike.

After successfully establishing her reputation in Nashville, Lyn made the decision to return to her roots in Louisville, where she took a significant step forward by launching her own design firm, Living Spaces by Lyn. This venture quickly gained traction and recognition within the design community, thanks to her keen eye for detail and her ability to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary homes. The firm became known for its comprehensive expertise in various aspects of design, including staging, renovations, and organization, which helped clients achieve their dream spaces. Lyn's exceptional work did not go unnoticed; she received numerous accolades, including a prestigious Best of Houzz award, which highlighted her dedication to excellence in design. Additionally, she was given the remarkable opportunity to design the CNet Smart House, a project that showcased her innovative approach to integrating technology with stylish living spaces.

After a decade of successful projects and satisfied clients, Lyn decided to embark on a new adventure, relocating to the picturesque town of Hendersonville, NC. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in her professional journey, where she established Designing Spaces by Lyn. In this new venture, Lyn continues to uphold her commitment to creating spaces that reflect the unique personalities and lifestyles of their owners. She is deeply passionate about collaborating with local craftspeople and artisans, believing that such partnerships not only enrich the design process but also support the community and elevate the quality of her projects. Lyn's design philosophy transcends mere aesthetics; she firmly believes that true design is about crafting homes that resonate with the soul of their inhabitants, creating environments that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal and meaningful. Through her work, Lyn aims to inspire and empower her clients, helping them to realize their visions and transform their living spaces into true reflections of who they are.

Find and follow Designing Spaces by Lyn:

https://designingspacesbylyn.com

IG: designingspacesbylyn

Music: Elizabeth McCorvey, a talented musician from WNC, is renowned for her skill with various instruments like the violin, cello, and banjo, as well as her captivating singing. She performs solo and with several local bands, covering genres including rock, Americana, blues, and Latin folk. 

For the latest information on her events and musical projects, you can visit her official website www.elizabethmccovernmusic.com

You can reach out to your host at [email protected]

We are thrilled to have a conversation with Merit Wolff, the owner and operator of Wine Sage Merchant and Wine Bar, located at 416 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC.
Merrit has built a reputation for curating an exceptional selection of wines that cater to both seasoned connoisseurs and those new to the world of wine. As we settle into our chat, Merrit’s passion for wine is palpable, and it’s clear that Wine Sage is more than just a business—it’s a labor of love.
Merit’s journey into the wine industry began years ago, sparked by a fascination with the stories behind each bottle and the regions they come from. This passion led to the creation of Wine Sage, where the focus is on quality, sustainability, and community engagement.
The ambiance of the Wine Bar reflects this ethos, with its cozy yet sophisticated décor inviting guests to relax and savor their experience. Whether you’re dropping by for a glass or attending one of their themed events, you’re sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking.
As our conversation winds down, it’s evident that Wine Sage is more than just a destination; it’s a celebration of wine culture and a testament to Merit’s dedication to sharing the joy of wine with others.

Find the Wine Sage Merchant and Wine Bar:
www.winesageandgourmet.com
Insta: winesagehvl
FB: winesagehvl

Eric Congdon is a multi-instrument musician in WNC.   He plays in a variety of bands including LAZRLUVR, CONGDON GRIFFIN BAND, AUTUMNWUD. 

Eric is a remarkably versatile musician whose talents extend far beyond the traditional boundaries of a singer-songwriter. As a multifaceted artist, he not only excels as a performer but also as a collaborator, producer, and expert guitarist, demonstrating a rare ability to weave together various musical styles and genres into a cohesive an

You can reach out to your host at [email protected]