What makes Dr. Heather Ulrich a good neighbor?

What does it really take to understand yourself? Dr. Heather Ulrich, licensed psychologist and self-proclaimed "realist who smiles," guides us through this profound question in our latest conversation.

With over two decades of experience helping people navigate life's complexities, Dr. Ulrich shares her refreshingly straightforward approach to psychology. "My goal is to help people feel seen and understood," she explains, "because once people are able to be self-aware and understand themselves, we can better go out and navigate the world." This simple yet powerful philosophy forms the foundation of her work with clients ranging from six-year-olds to septuagenarians.

Dr. Ulrich shatters common misconceptions about psychologists with humor and clarity. No, she's not analyzing you unless you're paying her, and despite her expertise in human behavior, she doesn't claim psychic abilities. Beyond her professional identity, we discover a multifaceted individual who balances motherhood to teenage daughters and a toddler stepchild with her love for spontaneous road trips (sometimes literally sleeping in her Subaru) and bluegrass music.

Perhaps most inspiring is Dr. Ulrich's candid sharing of her own non-linear path to becoming a psychologist. Despite knowing her calling from a young age, she faced numerous rejections and setbacks. "Just because you feel like the path isn't going the way you thought doesn't mean you're not meant to do what you're supposed to do," she reflects, embodying the perseverance she now helps foster in others. Her Buddhist-inspired approach emphasizes that meaningful change must begin within ourselves—creating our own "instruction manual" for navigating the world more effectively.

Discover how self-awareness can transform your life by connecting with Dr. Ulrich through her website, social media platforms, or Substack publication "The Realist Who Smiles." Ready to better understand yourself and create a more conscious, thoughtful life? This conversation is your first step.

To learn more about Dr. Heather Ulrich go to:

https://drheatherulrich.com/

Heather Ulrich, PH.D.

828-668-5332

What makes Jennifer Hasty with Jennifer Hasty Therapy a good neighbor?

What happens when trauma keeps us trapped in cycles of panic, fear, and hypervigilance? Meet Jennifer Hasty, a licensed professional counselor who transformed her own debilitating experience with panic attacks and claustrophobia into a healing practice for others through EMDR therapy.

Jennifer's story pulls you in immediately—a single mother for 25 years who found herself unable to enter crowded spaces like Walmart without experiencing panic attacks. When workplace anxiety became overwhelming, an employee assistance program connected her with the therapy that would change everything. After just three EMDR sessions, Jennifer experienced a profound shift in how her brain processed a childhood trauma. Standing taller, smiling more, and seeing with "clear vision," she discovered her life's calling.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) uses bilateral stimulation—rhythmic movements similar to REM sleep—to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories. Jennifer explains how this fascinating technique moves memories from the emotional center of the brain to long-term storage, essentially "taking the memory off the emotional hook." Through buzzing tappers, alternating taps, or drumming, patients maintain groundedness in the present while addressing past trauma, often shifting from self-blame to compassion and gaining emotional distance from triggering experiences.

Beyond EMDR, Jennifer challenges pervasive myths around mental healthcare, emphasizing that our brains deserve the same attention as any other part of our body. "To believe your mind does not deserve healthcare is a huge misconception," she asserts. Her holistic approach extends beyond her practice into breadmaking (with health benefits for trauma-affected digestive systems), ballroom dancing, and community connection.

Ready to explore how trauma therapy might transform your relationship with difficult memories? Check out Jennifer's website at jhastytherapy.com and discover if EMDR might help you "be the hero that you needed as a kid."

To learn more about Jennifer Hasty Therapy go to:

https://jhastytherapy.com/

Jennifer Hasty Therapy

423-444-0299

What makes Stephanie Wilder with Chifferrobe Home and Garden a good neighbor?

What happens when life forces you to reinvent yourself at age 60? For Stephanie Wilder, being laid off from her career as an English teacher became the unexpected catalyst for a thriving second act as the owner of Chifferobe Home and Garden in Black Mountain.

"Maybe I'll open a shop. How hard can that be?" Stephanie recalls thinking after the juvenile prison where she taught closed down. Twelve years later, her "funky store where you never knew what you were going to find inside" has become a beloved local business with a fiercely independent approach. Named after the southern term for wardrobe that appears in To Kill a Mockingbird (one of her favorite books to teach), Chifferobe reflects Stephanie's literary background and unique vision.

Unlike most retailers, Stephanie avoids trade shows and conventional buying channels, preferring to discover distinctive vendors who offer products not found everywhere else. Her store specializes in clothing made from natural fibers, produced outside China, with many items crafted in Italy. This commitment to uniqueness extends to her business philosophy: "I'm reluctant to actually play by anybody's rules besides my own." This approach has served her well through challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Helene, which forced her to close for nearly two months without electricity, water, or internet.

The hurricane crisis revealed not just Stephanie's resilience but the strength of her community. With help from local nonprofit Mountain BizWorks and loyal customers, Chifferobe emerged stronger than ever. "I feel so close to everyone in this town now," she shares, reflecting on how neighbors banded together during the disaster. Her message for listeners echoes this community spirit: "You don't have to support big businesses. You should shop local and look for things that are not made in China and try to help the local economy."

Discover Chifferobe Home and Garden in person in Black Mountain or online at www.Chifferobehomeandgarden.com, and experience a retail space that proves it's never too late to create something uniquely yours.

To learn more about Chifferrobe Home and Garden go to:

https://chifferobehomeandgarden.com/

Chifferrobe Home and Garden

(828) 669-2743

What makes Blake Collins with Goodman Jewelers a good neighbor?

Nestled in the heart of downtown Bristol sits a jewel of a different kind—a family business that sparkles with tradition, craftsmanship, and generational wisdom. Meet Blake Collins, the third-generation bench jeweler behind Goodman Jewelers, who carries forward a legacy that began in 1971 at the same State Street location where it stands today.

Blake's journey into the world of fine jewelry wasn't just a career choice—it was his birthright. From childhood days spent cleaning display cases with Windex to learning the intricate art of watch repair, his progression from "the jeweler's kid" to master craftsman unfolded naturally. Today, he specializes in creating, repairing, and customizing fine jewelry with a level of personal attention that chain stores simply cannot match.

During our conversation, Blake dispels common misconceptions about independent jewelry stores, particularly the assumption that they're always more expensive than big-box retailers. The truth, he reveals, is quite the opposite—local jewelers often forge deeper relationships with suppliers and customers alike, resulting in higher quality pieces at competitive prices. When you purchase from Goodman Jewelers, you're not just buying an accessory; you're investing in a relationship built on trust and expertise honed across generations.

Beyond the showcases filled with precious metals and gemstones, Blake's life resonates with rich Appalachian traditions. A musician at heart, he grew up picking bluegrass and attending fiddlers' conventions with his family band—a passion now being passed to his 10-year-old daughter. When faced with the sudden loss of his father in 2015, Blake found that stepping up to preserve the family business became an unexpected anchor during his grief, demonstrating the profound connection between personal resilience and professional purpose.

What truly distinguishes Goodman Jewelers is summed up in Blake's own words: "We value and honor your trust." Each piece that passes through his hands represents not just material worth, but the milestones, memories, and emotions of his customers' lives. Visit Blake at 532 State Street in Bristol, call 423-764-1332, or email [email protected] to experience the difference that five decades of dedication to craft and community can make.

To learn more about Goodman Jewelers go to:

https://www.facebook.com/BristolGoodmanJewelers/

Goodman Jewelers

(423) 764-1332

What makes Jamisha Turner with Vanities By Jay Beauty & Aesthetics a good neighbor?

Ever wondered what truly separates exceptional skincare from empty promises? Master esthetician Jamisha Turner pulls back the curtain on the beauty industry with refreshing honesty and scientific expertise. 

With a background in biology and chemistry from VCU, Jamisha brings a unique perspective to her work at Vanity by Jay Beauty and Aesthetics in Richmond, Virginia. Her journey from curious client to specialized practitioner offers valuable insights for anyone interested in skin transformation or considering a career in esthetics. As a self-described "corrective skincare esthetician," she focuses on delivering visible results rather than superficial experiences.

Jamisha specializes in treatments many estheticians don't offer, particularly DPN removal - addressing those mole-like lesions common in people of African and Asian descent. Through chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and other advanced techniques, she helps clients achieve lasting improvements rather than temporary fixes. But her most passionate message might surprise you: "Sunscreen is your most important product. You can throw everything else away if you're not using it." She explains how sun damage accelerates virtually all skin concerns, making protection non-negotiable.

What truly sets Jamisha apart is her partnership approach with clients. "You are 80% of the work, and what I do is 20%," she explains, dispelling the myth that professional treatments alone create perfect skin. This honest assessment extends to aspiring estheticians as well, as she cautions that building a clientele requires patience and persistence - contrary to what beauty schools often suggest.

Ready to transform your skin with science-backed methods? Visit vanitiesbyjay.com to explore before-and-after galleries, learn about specialized treatments, or book a virtual consultation. Join Jamisha on a skincare journey focused on integrity, education, and genuine results that speak for themselves.

To learn more about Vanity By Jay go to:

https://www.vanitiesbyjay.com/

Vanities By Jay Beauty & Aesthetics

(804)372-3271   

What makes Jennifer Kirkby & Paulett Kehm with The Johnson City Dog Park a good neighbor?

The power of community shines brightly at the Johnson City Dog Park, where passionate volunteers have created something extraordinary over nearly two decades. Board members Jennifer Kirkby and Paulette Kehm join Skip Mauney to reveal the inspiring story behind this hidden gem that operates entirely on membership dues without a penny of government funding.

Founded in 2006, the Johnson City Dog Park stands as the Tri-Cities' first dedicated canine playground, earning national recognition when Modern Dog Magazine named it among America's top dog parks. What makes this achievement remarkable is that the park functions through pure volunteer effort—no staff, no city funding, just dedicated dog lovers who maintain pools, provide water stations, and ensure waste bags are always available. At just $55 annually for one dog and $20 for each additional pet, membership remains accessible while sustaining this unique community resource.

Beyond the physical amenities, what truly distinguishes the park is its remarkable social impact. "When I moved here I didn't have a lot of friends," shares Jennifer, who's been with the park since 2005. "Once I start going to the dog park, I got established in the community." The park has even sparked romantic connections, with at least two marriages tracing back to chance meetings between dog owners. Located within the beautiful Willow Springs Park area, complete with scenic walking trails, it offers a perfect setting for both canine play and human connection. Whether you're new to the area or simply looking to give your furry friend some socialization, visit JohnsonCityDogPark.org to learn how you can become part of this special community where dogs and their people find friendship, fun, and belonging. Ready to experience it yourself? Your dog's next best friend is waiting!

To learn more about The Johnson City Dog Park go to:

https://johnsoncitydogpark.org/

The Johnson City Dog Park

(423) 218-2305

What makes Christi Hurd with Grace 2 Grow Family Coaching a good neighbor?

What does it really mean to be a good parent? In this heartfelt conversation with Christi Hurd, owner of Grace 2 Grow Family Coaching, we explore the challenging yet rewarding journey of parenting with grace and intention.

Christy shares her powerful transition from dedicated middle school teacher to family coach, a calling that emerged from witnessing countless parents struggling without adequate support. "Parents needed a lot of support and I felt very limited in my ability to walk alongside them because of my classroom responsibilities," she explains. Now, after specialized training through the Parent Coaching Institute, she's fulfilling her mission to help parents gain confidence, address challenges, and genuinely enjoy their parenting journey.

Unlike the "super nanny" approach that focuses on fixing problems, Christi's coaching philosophy centers on partnership and empowerment. "What a parent coach does is help you reframe and co-construct solutions to your problems," she explains. This collaborative process honors parents' values while providing the tools they need to thrive. Through both one-on-one coaching and workshops like "Raising Confident and Capable Kids" and "Handling Technology as a Team," she addresses the real-world challenges facing today's families.

Perhaps most refreshing is Christi's emphasis on grace. Drawing from her own parenting experiences with three children, she admits, "I struggled a lot myself as a parent... I was always bombarded with the question 'am I doing it right?'" This authenticity shapes her coaching approach, reminding clients that "it's never too late, and none of us do it perfectly." As she beautifully summarizes, "Parenting is the hardest, most important job you'll ever love." Ready to transform your parenting journey? Visit Grace2GrowFamilyCoaching.com to learn more and take advantage of Christi's limited-time 50% discount on all coaching services.

To learn more about Grace 2 Grow Family Coaching go to:

https://www.grace2growfamilycoaching.com/

Grace 2 Grow Family Coaching

What makes Heath Pritchard with Uplifting Training a good neighbor?

What happens when faith meets fitness? Heath Pritchard, owner of Uplifting Training in Johnson City, has created something remarkable by fusing his expertise in exercise science with his Christian faith. His story is one of unexpected transitions, divine timing, and finding purpose through helping others care for their physical temples.

After graduating from ETSU with an exercise science degree in 2015, Heath faced the common graduate's dilemma of choosing a career path. While physical therapy and athletic training were options, the deeply relational nature of personal training captured his heart. The opportunity to meet with clients multiple times weekly creates space for meaningful connections that extend far beyond sets and reps.

Heath's business journey took a profound turn in 2021 when his employer and mentor, Eric Luelling of E-Fit Training and Nutrition, passed away unexpectedly. This loss became a pivotal moment that tested and ultimately strengthened Heath's faith. Through what he describes as divine orchestration, Heath found himself assuming ownership of the business and transforming it into Uplifting Training – a place where clients aged 15 and older come not just for physical transformation, but spiritual guidance as well.

"We do uplifting training for life-changing results," Heath explains, encapsulating his mission to help people understand proper body stewardship from a biblical perspective. When not training clients, Heath cherishes time with his wife and daughter, along with his church family.

Ready to transform body and spirit? Visit Heath at 600 North State of Franklin, Suite 3 in Johnson City, check out UpliftingTraining.com, or find them on Facebook to start your journey toward holistic health that honors your body as the temple it was meant to be.

To learn more about Uplifting Training go to:

https://upliftingtraining.com/

Uplifting Training

(703) 853-4114

What makes Bill Gilliland with Action COACH Business Growth Partners a good neighbor?

Ever feel like your business has hit a ceiling? You're not alone. That nagging plateau where growth stalls is exactly where Bill Gilliland of Action Coach Business Growth Partners steps in to transform good businesses into great ones.

Bill shatters the common misconception that business coaching is solely for struggling companies. "It's not a business hospital," he explains with refreshing clarity. "It's a business gymnasium." This powerful distinction reveals the true nature of effective coaching—not rescuing failing enterprises but strengthening ambitious ones ready to level up. With 18 years of experience helping entrepreneurs scale, Bill has honed his expertise particularly with businesses in the trades, construction, and professional services sectors.

What makes Bill's approach particularly insightful is his understanding of the psychological barriers to growth. "We're all our biggest lid on our own business," he notes, highlighting how often entrepreneurs themselves become the ceiling that prevents scaling. The conversation takes fascinating turns as Bill draws parallels between business breakthroughs and outdoor activities like fly fishing—reminding us that our best ideas often emerge when we're not actively thinking about work at all. This holistic view of entrepreneurship acknowledges that mental space away from business paradoxically creates room for business innovation.

Looking for guidance to break through your business plateau? Connect with Bill through his website billgilliland.biz, attend the upcoming Asheville Business Summit on September 23rd, or simply reach out for that cup of coffee he mentions might spark your next breakthrough. Sometimes the difference between staying stuck and scaling successfully is just one conversation with someone who's helped others navigate the same journey.

To learn more about Action COACH Business Growht Partners  go to:

https://billgilliland.biz/

Action COACH Business Growth Partners

(828) 348-1787

What makes Emmett Brost with Budget Blinds of The Tri-Cities a good neighbor?

Ever wondered what goes into creating those perfect window treatments that transform a house into a home? Skip Mauney sits down with Emmett Brost, owner of Budget Blinds of Tri-Cities, who reveals the fascinating journey that took him from theater school to restaurant management and finally to becoming the region's window covering expert.

With refreshing candor, Emmett dispels common misconceptions about his industry – starting with the company name itself. "Budget" doesn't mean cheap; rather, they offer "a style for every budget." He explains how window coverings have evolved much like appliances – the days of products lasting 30+ years are largely gone, making it crucial to select the right manufacturer based on your specific needs. With access to over 30 manufacturers and 28 different window treatment styles, Budget Blinds brings an entire showroom directly to customers through free in-home consultations.

What truly sets Emmett's business apart isn't just product selection but a commitment to reliability that's surprisingly rare in the home service industry. "We say we're going to do something, and then we do it," he emphasizes, contrasting with contractors who make vague promises or disappear entirely. This project management approach, combined with genuine customer focus, has allowed Budget Blinds of Tri-Cities to thrive for over 11 years, serving thousands of homes throughout the region. Whether you need a single specialized treatment for your front door or complete solutions for an entire home, Emmett's team tailors recommendations to your specific situation rather than pushing unnecessary products. Ready to transform your windows from afterthoughts into highlights? Connect with Budget Blinds of Tri-Cities today and experience the difference that true professionalism makes.

To learn more about Budget Blinds of The Tri-Cities go to:

https://www.budgetblinds.com/johnson-city-tn/

Budget Blinds of The Tri-Cities

(423) 759-3810