Johnson City Living

About the Guest:

Emily Sikora\ Emily Sikora is a dynamic entrepreneur and the owner of two flourishing businesses, Gray Bird Label and TriStar Trading. With a background in exercise science and occupational therapy, Emily transitioned from the healthcare industry to the world of fashion and online commerce. She founded Gray Bird Label in 2016, which has grown from an online boutique to a manufacturer and wholesaler of fashion accessories across the globe. Alongside Johnny Bragg, Emily also co-owns TriStar Trading, a merchandise business catering to YouTubers and online influencers. Her journey showcases her adaptability, drive, and resourcefulness in navigating business challenges and scaling her ventures.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Emily Sikora, a successful entrepreneur from Johnson City, to discuss her journey and the growth of her businesses, Gray Bird Label and TriStar Trading. They begin by reflecting on the local charm of Johnson City, with Emily highlighting how her appreciation for the area grew as she started raising her children there. She particularly enjoys the vibrant community, good schools, and numerous festivals and events.

Emily delves into the origins of Gray Bird Label, which started as an online boutique selling women's clothes and accessories. She explains how the business scaled rapidly, transitioning from Facebook groups to an online store with both an app and a website. Facing the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, she pivoted Gray Bird into manufacturing and wholesaling unique fashion accessories like earrings, purses, and bathrobes to stores across the country and the world. Emily also talks about her other venture, TriStar Trading, which she co-founded with Johnny Bragg to provide merchandise for YouTubers. The episode is a deep dive into Emily’s entrepreneurial journey, filled with actionable insights and inspiration for aspiring business owners.

Key Takeaways:

• Adapt and Pivot: Emily’s successful transition from retail to wholesale manufacturing highlights the importance of adaptability in business.
• Leveraging Social Media: Connecting with manufacturers and customers through platforms like Instagram can significantly foster business growth.
• Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Emily shares how entrepreneurship allows her to maintain a flexible schedule that accommodates both her business and family needs.
• Community Support: Building a strong local customer base can facilitate initial business growth and sustain long-term success.
• Business Partnerships: Effective collaboration, as seen with TriStar Trading, can bring complementary strengths together and drive a business forward.

Notable Quotes:

• "I needed a little more for my brain than just being home all the time."
• "A lot of the stuff that I worked really hard learning with Gray Bird, I've been able to put into use with TriStar."
• "It's a balancing act. You gotta think really, at least probably, six months out."
• "There is not a manual for how to start and run a business. It just doesn’t exist."
• "I have a heart for other people that are interested in owning a business. I don't think that you have that inkling inside of you for no reason."

Resources:

• Gray Bird Label Website
• Gray Bird Label Instagram
• TriStar Trading Website
• TriStar Trading Instagram

For an in-depth look at Emily’s entrepreneurial insights and to hear more about her journey, tune into the full episode. Stay tuned to the podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice from local business leaders.

About the Guest:

Rebecca Alexander is a dedicated and experienced State Representative for Tennessee's 7th District. Elected in 2020, she has devoted her tenure to serving her community with passion and integrity. Besides her legislative role, Rebecca prides herself on her commitment to public service, focusing on various issues ranging from educational reforms to healthcare improvements. She is known for her strong faith, community involvement, and advocacy for key regional issues, making significant contributions to Tennessee's development and well-being.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Johnson City Living, host Colin Johnson chats with long-time family friend and State Representative, Rebecca Alexander. As they explore the beautiful fall in Johnson City, Rebecca reflects on her four years of service, the intricacies of her role, and the community's spirit. With her rich background in public service, Rebecca offers unique insights into the life of a State Representative, from legislative processes and advocacy to the importance of community engagement and faith.

Rebecca emphasizes the paramount importance of community connections and the hospitality that defines Johnson City. She explains her motivation for pursuing legislative work post-retirement and shares anecdotes of her impactful contributions, such as assisting with unemployment issues, facilitating disability claims, and securing essential community funding. The conversation covers the legislative processes Rebecca navigates, including bill creation, committee meetings, and the necessity of lobbying, encapsulating the essence of her commitment to making a tangible difference.

Key Takeaways:

• Community Spirit and Growth: The warmth and hospitality of the people in Johnson City play a crucial role in its appeal, along with the beautiful mountainous landscapes.
• Legislative Journey: Rebecca details the complexities of her role as a State Representative, including the creation and passage of bills, committee assignments, and advocacy issues.
• Faith and Public Service: Rebecca's strong faith guides her work, underscoring the importance of incorporating personal beliefs into public duties for genuine community service.
• Importance of Hard Work: Drawing from her own upbringing, Rebecca stresses the values of hard work and perseverance, essential traits for community and personal success.
• Future Goals: Rebecca outlines her ongoing objectives, such as improving broadband access and healthcare reforms, reflecting her dedication to addressing both immediate and long-term community needs.

Notable Quotes:

1. “I love seeing our community get money that we've never gotten before. That thrills my heart.”
2. “A lot of our self-esteem in our work. And when we enable people not to work, they lose their self-esteem and their purpose in life.”
3. “If you don't vote, you vote it the other way, and your vote does matter.”
4. “I start out every day on my knees, literally praying, God, please help me have the wisdom to guide our community.”
5. “I firmly believe that I was there. I'm there for a reason. I know that he has a plan for our state, and I just wanted to be in that will.”

Resources:

• Early Voting: Begins October 16th
• Election Day: November 5th
• Rebecca Alexander's Office: Engage with your local representatives to discuss community issues and legislative processes.
• Tennessee State Government: For more information on bills, committees, and legislative calendars.

Tune in to this insightful episode to gain a deeper understanding of the integral role of community, faith, and dedicated public service in shaping Johnson City's future. Stay updated with more enlightening content from Johnson City Living!

About the Guest:

Greg Turner is the founder and owner of "Get Bricked," a premier Lego store located in Johnson City. With a deep-rooted passion for Lego that began in his childhood, Greg reignited his interest during the COVID-19 pandemic and turned it into a thriving business. Beyond Legos, Greg has extensive experience in retail, having owned multiple brick-and-mortar stores specializing in minerals and fossils. His wife, too, is an entrepreneur, owning the West Main Antique Store in Johnson City. Together, they are deeply integrated into the local business community.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the podcast, host Colin Johnson welcomes Greg Turner, owner of the popular "Get Bricked" Lego store in Johnson City. As summer lingers and the town buzzes with activities, Colin and Greg delve into the world of Legos, discussing everything from the origins of Greg's passion for these iconic building blocks to the thriving business he has created. They explore the intricacies of the Lego market, the community involvement, and the excitement of upcoming projects.

Throughout the conversation, Greg shares fascinating insights about the Lego industry, including investment tips and the immense popularity of certain sets like Star Wars and Harry Potter. The episode covers nostalgic memories, entrepreneurship lessons, and the joys of bringing a childhood passion back to life. Essential themes such as community growth, family bonding, and the enduring appeal of Lego are skillfully woven into this informative and entertaining discussion.

Key Takeaways:

• From Passion to Business: Greg Turner's rekindled love for Lego during the pandemic led to the creation of "Get Bricked," a booming business in Johnson City.
• Community Involvement: The store is not just a retail space but a community hub offering events like build sessions and the upcoming birthday party room.
• Lego Investment Insights: Lego sets, especially Star Wars and Harry Potter, can be significant investment vehicles, with sealed sets increasing in value over time.
• Family Bonding: Legos provide an excellent opportunity for family bonding and creativity, appealing to both kids and adults.
• Downtown Growth: Greg talks about the growth and charm of downtown Johnson City, highlighting the benefits of living and owning a business in a smaller, bustling town.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The amount and variety of parts now compared to 20, 30 years ago has definitely expanded greatly." - Greg Turner
2. "We wanted to get back to a small town. Cost of living in Asheville skyrocketed. The traffic, crime, etc." - Greg Turner
3. "Lego Forbes named it two years in a row the number one investment vehicle on the planet." - Greg Turner
4. "I've been an entrepreneur my entire life. I remember selling dum dum lollipops in the first grade for 10 cents." - Greg Turner
5. "With Legos, you can just take the bricks and build whatever you want and use your imagination. What's better than that?" - Greg Turner

Resources:

• Get Bricked Instagram: @get_bricked_jc
• West Main Antiques: Owned by Greg Turner’s wife, also located in downtown Johnson City.

For more captivating insights and to learn about the expanding world of Legos and community events in Johnson City, be sure to listen to the full episode. Don’t miss out on the upcoming birthday party room at "Get Bricked" and other exciting projects! Stay tuned for more enriching content from the podcast, bringing you closer to the heart of Johnson City's vibrant community.

About the Guest:

Erica Turner

Erica Turner is a seasoned business owner and the driving force behind Green Meadow Cleaning, a well-respected residential and commercial cleaning service based in Johnson City. With a commitment to quality, simplicity, and community, Erica has built her company from the ground up, starting with lawn care and expanding into full-fledged cleaning services. Having founded Green Meadow Cleaning in 2013, Erica has been a cornerstone in the community, not only through her business but also by supporting those in need, especially cancer patients through the nonprofit Cleaning for a Reason.

Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt episode, Colin Johnson of the Colin and Carter Group and Keller Williams Realty sits down with Erica Turner from Green Meadow Cleaning to discuss the journey from a life-altering move to Johnson City and the establishment of her thriving cleaning business. A journey marked by resilience, community support, and an unwavering commitment to giving back, Erica’s story is both inspirational and practical for anyone looking to dive into the world of small business.

Erica shares the story of Green Meadow Cleaning's origins, detailing how personal losses and a yearning for simplicity brought her and her husband to Johnson City from Richmond, Virginia. Initially providing lawn care services, they transitioned into the cleaning industry, guided by the community's welcoming spirit and Erica's own experiences with her mother's battle with cancer. The episode delves into the logistics of running a successful cleaning business, the importance of work-life balance, and Erica’s passion for helping those undergoing cancer treatment through Cleaning for a Reason.

Key Takeaways:

• Personal Journey: Erica Turner's move from Richmond to Johnson City was driven by a desire for simplicity and healing, leading to the founding of Green Meadow Cleaning.
• Building a Business: The transition from lawn care to cleaning services highlighted the importance of adaptability and community support in business growth.
• Community Support: Donations to Cleaning for a Reason demonstrate the company's commitment to supporting cancer patients by providing complimentary cleanings.
• Operational Insights: Emphasizing leadership development, process building, and employee well-being are key to running a successful cleaning business.
• Future Goals: Erica aims to grow Green Meadow Cleaning sustainably, focusing on quality service and greater community contributions.

Notable Quotes:

1. “Johnson City is a place where you can hike, look at the mountains, and feel embraced by the community, which is why we fell in love with it and decided to stay.”
2. “We started cleaning for a reason because of my personal experience with my mom's cancer battle… it allows patients to focus on their health in a clean environment.”
3. “What fires me up is helping other people, whether it’s my children, grandchildren, or members of our community.”
4. “We grew our business with the community’s support, and now our goal is to grow big enough to give even more back.”
5. “One of the big tips I’d offer to anyone starting a small business: get a mentor or coach and build your leadership skills.”

Resources:

• Green Meadow Cleaning: greenmeadowcleaning.com
• Phone: 423-207-0268
• Nonprofit: Cleaning for a Reason

For a more in-depth look at Erica Turner's inspirational journey, her commitment to her community, and practical insights into running a successful small business, listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more engaging and enlightening content from our podcast series!

About the Guests:

Julianne Hurst: Julianne Hurst serves as the Director of Enrollment and Advancement at Ashley Academy. Before joining the academy, Julianne spent 17 years in real estate transaction and marketing. She moved to Johnson City 11 years ago and has been heavily involved with the school, both as a parent and a team member, enhancing the school's enrollment strategies and spearheading fundraising initiatives.

Ramona Harr: Ramona Harr is the Head of School at Ashley Academy, playing a key leadership role similar to that of a principal in a public school. With over 30 years of experience in education, Ramona has a background in math, having taught and coached basketball at various educational levels. She hails from West Virginia and joined Ashley Academy after a long tenure in the independent school sector in Bristol, focusing on developing critical thinkers and leaders.

Episode Summary:

On this episode of the podcast, Colin Johnson welcomes Julianne Hurst and Ramona Harr from Ashley Academy to discuss the academy's impactful educational approach and community involvement. As they celebrate 46 years in operation, Julianne and Ramona share insights into the academy's rich history, their innovative teaching methods, and their plans for future expansion.

Julianne Hurst and Ramona Harr delve into the specifics of their roles at Ashley Academy, highlighting how they cultivate a collaborative and supportive environment for both students and faculty. They emphasize the unique aspects of their education model, including their hands-on learning approach and the initiation of a high school program that will eventually cover grades 9 through 12. The conversation provides valuable insights into Ashley Academy's commitment to developing critical thinkers and leaders, making it a compelling episode for parents and educators alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Longevity and History: Ashley Academy has been a cornerstone of education in Johnson City for 46 years, founded by Dr. Dean and Janine Wilson.
• Innovative Learning: The academy emphasizes hands-on, applied learning methodologies that go beyond traditional test-taking to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.
• Community and Collaboration: Strong community ties and collaborative efforts among staff, students, and parents are central to the academy's success.
• Comprehensive Education: With offerings starting at two years old, going up to the newly added high school grades, the academy provides a full spectrum of education.
• Leadership Development: The institution focuses on nurturing leadership skills and emotional intelligence, preparing students not just academically but also as proactive contributors to society.

Notable Quotes:

• "We want to develop those innovative individuals who are willing to critically think." - Ramona Harr
• "It's important for us, our families to be involved in the school. I mean, we couldn't thrive without them." - Julianne Hurst
• "Our goal is always to remind the students, make sure that you have vision, you're looking wide and long and it's going to take a lot of courage to take that on and make sure it gets completed." - Ramona Harr
• "Seeing their excitement and just, they give you energy and so that's always been the reason why I'm in education." - Ramona Harr
• "I think for me, I just really love all the different ideas that kind of come in, but for some reason, it all works with us together." - Julianne Hurst

Resources:

• Ashley Academy Website: Ashley Academy
• Phone: 423-92-9788

For more insights into Ashley Academy's innovative educational practices and community-focused initiatives, tune into this enriching episode. Keep following the podcast for more discussions on the people and places that make Johnson City a wonderful community.

About the Guest:

Matthew Dodd-Berry: Matthew Dodd-Berry is a talented young golfer hailing from the Wirral in England. With a strong background in competitive golf, Matthew has excelled at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) under the guidance of Coach Jake Amos. He is now transitioning to Louisiana State University (LSU) to pursue his golfing career at a higher competitive level. Matthew’s achievements include making it to the national championships with ETSU, playing in the prestigious Open Championship, and establishing a robust reputation in the golfing community both in the UK and the US.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the podcast, Colin Johnson sits down with Matthew Dodd-Berry, an accomplished golfer from England who has recently made waves by participating in the Open Championship. Traveling all the way from the Wirral, Matthew shares insights into his journey from East Tennessee State University (ETSU) to joining Louisiana State University (LSU) for an exciting new chapter in his golfing career.

Matthew delves into the nuances of moving from a tightly-knit community in Johnson City to the bustling and competitive environment of Baton Rouge. He discusses the challenges and rewards of playing collegiate golf, his preference for the close-knit feel of ETSU, and his decisions that have paved the way for his transition to LSU. Furthermore, listeners get a rare glimpse into his experience at the Open Championship, ranging from the rigorous qualifications to the awe-inspiring moments playing alongside golfing legends like Scotty Scheffler.

Key Takeaways:

• Transition in Collegiate Golf: Matthew explains his move from ETSU to LSU and the factors that influenced his decision, including seeking a higher level of competition and the opportunity to play in the SEC.
• Golfing Beginnings and Family Influence: The episode explores Matthew's early introduction to golf, influenced by his grandmother, and his realization of his potential at a young age.
• Attitude and Mental Toughness: Matthew emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and mental resilience, both on the golf course and in life—echoing lessons taught by his coaches and experiences in competitive play.
• Open Championship Insights: Detailed recount of Matthew’s journey to the Open Championship, including overcoming the final qualifiers and playing against top golfers like Scotty Scheffler.
• Future Aspirations: Matthew shares his goals for the upcoming year, including winning more college tournaments and making another appearance at the Open Championship.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I think I made a good decision choosing golf [over football], you can play golf forever."
2. "People around me had told me that you need to go in there with an attitude of just, it's nothing special, just go there like you're trying to win."
3. "It's not about how we're playing right now, it's about how we play in post season."
4. "The pros aren't actually—they don't strike it as good as you think they would, but the six inches between their ears is where they really step ahead of everyone."
5. "If I hadn't made [that 15ft putt], I wouldn't have made it into the final qualifying and who knows what would have happened. I possibly wouldn't have played the Open."

Resources:

• Instagram: @matty_dodd_berry
• Twitter: @matty_dodd_berry

Enjoy the full episode to hear Matthew's journey firsthand and stay tuned for more insightful episodes from our series. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or looking for inspiration and life lessons from sports, this episode is sure to offer valuable insights.

About the Guest:

Damon Johnson\ Damon Johnson is a former professional basketball player hailing from Johnson City. He has played for various international teams, including those in Iceland, Spain, Indonesia, and Chile. After a successful 15-year career, he returned to his hometown to give back to the community. Currently, Damon is the Executive Director of LXI, an after-school program focused on supporting underprivileged youth, particularly those dealing with trauma and mental health challenges. Damon's journey from a local athlete to a global basketball player and now a community leader demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of children in Johnson City.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, host Colin Johnson sits down with longtime friend and community leader Damon Johnson. It's a heartfelt conversation about growing up in Johnson City, the transformative power of basketball, and the importance of giving back. Damon details his journey from participating in local basketball teams to playing professionally overseas, and eventually, returning home to make a difference in his community.

Damon talks at length about his role as Executive Director at LXI, an after-school program centered around addressing trauma and mental health in youth. The discussion highlights LXI's unique approach, which diverges from traditional curriculum-based after-school programs by focusing more on mental health and providing a safe space for kids to express and deal with their trauma. Damon shares his future vision for LXI, including exciting partnerships and potential expansions aimed at providing even more resources to children in need.

Key Takeaways:

• Damon's Basketball Journey: His career spanned countries like Iceland, Spain, Indonesia, and Chile, ultimately shaping his perspective and bringing him back to his roots in Johnson City.
• LXI's Mission: The program is committed to dealing with trauma and mental health rather than adhering strictly to conventional curriculum-based activities.
• Future Plans for LXI: Exciting partnerships and community collaborations are in the works to ensure the nonprofit can reach more children and provide substantial resources.
• Community Impact: Damon emphasizes the importance of community support and collaboration to drive meaningful change in the lives of youth.
• Personal Stories: Damon shares anecdotes about his professional basketball career and his motivation to mentor and support kids through their struggles.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I don't think we can heal people at LXI, but we can start the process of healing."
2. "Kids in basketball just kept swirling in my mind. So I started TCF, which was a nonprofit basketball program."
3. "We really focus on mental health and trauma more than most after-school programs."
4. "Find somebody to talk to if you can't go through a therapist, find a support system that will challenge you."
5. "I think just go after it and be prepared to fail. Failure is just a way of learning."

Resources:

• Damon Johnson's Email: [email protected]
• LXI Website: Move LXI

Call to Action:

Explore this deep dive into Damon Johnson’s inspiring journey from professional basketball to community leadership. Learn about the transformative work being done at LXI and how addressing trauma and mental health can significantly impact the lives of underprivileged youth. Tune in and be inspired to make a positive difference in your own community! Stay tuned for more insightful episodes from the Colin and Carter Group.

About the Guest:

Nancy Williams is an author, teacher, and freelance public relations professional based in Johnson City. With degrees in French and History, Nancy transitioned into advertising, working for renowned agencies and companies like FedEx. She later taught public relations at Milligan College and pursued her passion for writing, authoring books that include a devotional for women facing infertility and the historical fiction novel "To Love a Falcon." Nancy’s work is deeply influenced by her background in history, her experiences with Russian culture, and her strong Christian faith.

Episode Summary:

Join Colin Johnson as he welcomes Nancy Williams, a prolific author, teacher, and beloved neighbor from Johnson City, to the podcast. Nancy shares her journey from working in advertising and corporate communications to becoming an author. Her extensive background in history and writing shines through as she discusses her various projects, including her novel "To Love a Falcon," which beautifully intertwines historical fiction with elements of romance, mystery, and Christian faith.

In this episode, Nancy delves deep into her writing process, the inspiration behind her stories, and the historical context that enriches her novels. She highlights remarkable stories, such as Project Hula—a top-secret World War II mission, and discusses how her travel and family experiences, including adopting her son from Siberia, have influenced her writing. Nancy also offers invaluable advice for aspiring writers and previews her next project, a time-slip novel based in Johnson City. Don’t miss this captivating conversation full of local history, literary insights, and personal anecdotes.

Key Takeaways:

• Nancy Williams’ novel "To Love a Falcon" is rooted in the true story of Project Hula, a secret World War II mission.
• Historical fiction can provide a unique platform to explore themes like faith, persecution, and forgiveness.
• Nancy draws inspiration from personal experiences, such as adopting her son from Siberia.
• Aspiring writers should begin by simply getting their ideas down on paper and consider joining writers' groups for support.
• Nancy is working on a new novel based in Johnson City, blending historical and contemporary narratives through a time-slip format.

Notable Quotes:

1. “It is a hot but beautiful August day here in Johnson City, and kids are going back to school.” - Colin Johnson
2. “I've kind of watched the growth over that span of time. But my husband is from here originally.” - Nancy Williams
3. “I think Memphis is special… the people were fantastic.” - Colin Johnson
4. “I wanted to have a mission for the book… I wanted them to know that there was a real persecution.” - Nancy Williams
5. “Start writing. Just sit down and start. Just put it all down, and it'll… you will look back at it when you finished it and go, oh, that. That's gotta be changed.” - Nancy Williams

Resources:

• Nancy Williams’ Website: nancycwilliams.com
• Books by Nancy Williams:
• To Love a Falcon
• Devotional for Women Facing Infertility (title not specifically mentioned)
• References in the Episode:
• Project Hula on Wikipedia
• Finnist the Falcon (Russian fairy tale) on Wikipedia
• Westminster Presbyterian Church (YouTube available services)
• Various local dining and hiking spots in Johnson City

Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations on the podcast and dive into the full episode to discover more about Nancy Williams’ literary journey and her deep connections with history and faith.

About the Guest:

Patrick Mannion is an experienced white water rafting guide and the operating partner for Osprey Whitewater, which is part of Hawks Nest in Seven Devils, North Carolina. With over 3,500 commercial days on the Nolichucky River, Patrick holds a degree in recreation management from Appalachian State University, boasting multiple concentrations, including public parks and recreation management, commercial recreation and tourism management, and outdoor experiential leadership. Patrick’s profound love for the outdoors, combined with a seasoned career involving various white water rivers, positions him as one of the most knowledgeable and passionate guides in the industry.

Episode Summary:

Join Colin Johnson from the Colin and Carly Group with Keller Williams Realty as he converses with Patrick Mannion of Osprey Whitewater Rafting Outdoors. On this sunny July day, they discuss the joys and intricacies of white water rafting in East Tennessee's beautiful Nolichucky River. Patrick shares his journey from a military upbringing across various countries to becoming a seasoned white water rafting expert. Discover how rainfall affects the river's complexity and how Osprey ensures safety while ensuring exhilarating experiences for adventurers.

Delving deeper, Patrick talks about his fondness for the outdoors, recounting exciting wildlife sightings, dynamic river conditions, and memorable trips. With humorous anecdotes about guiding diverse groups, including one encounter with a large Korean tour group, and discussing the collaborative spirit among the Nolichucky’s rafting companies, this episode provides an engaging behind-the-scenes look at white water rafting. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or someone curious about outdoor adventure careers, you'll find valuable insights and reasons to explore white water rafting in East Tennessee.

Key Takeaways:

• Dynamic River Conditions: The Nolichucky River offers varying experiences based on its water levels, influenced consistently by rainfall.
• Extensive Experience and Passion: Patrick Mannion’s expertise stems from over 3,500 commercial days on the river and a specialized degree in recreation management.
• Wildlife Encounters: The Nolichucky Gorge boasts rich wildlife sightings, from bald eagles and river otters to occasional bears and deer.
• Collaboration Over Competition: Rafters on the Nolichucky maintain a strong spirit of camaraderie, often working together across companies to ensure safety and enjoyment.
• Memorable Experiences: Patrick shares his most unforgettable adventures on the river, emphasizing the unpredictable yet thrilling nature of white water rafting.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The Nolichucky is an interesting and very dynamic section of river to work on, to play on. The water levels are always going up or coming down." - Patrick Mannion
2. "We use smaller boats that we had custom-built for the Nolichucky. At this water level, we’ll lower the ratio of guests to guides." - Patrick Mannion
3. "I think one of the cool things about the Nolichucky is it's always different. The water levels are always different. The scenery is always amazing." - Patrick Mannion
4. "On high water, it's a splashy, exciting, exhilarating day. At low water, it's equally splashy and fun, but it ends up being a technical challenge for the staff." - Patrick Mannion
5. "If you don’t have a good time out there, we’ll send you rafting with another company out there, and maybe they can give you a good time." - Patrick Mannion

Resources:

• Osprey Whitewater Website: Hawks Nest Whitewater
• Contact: 828-963-6561
• Instagram: @ospreywhitewater
• Facebook: Hawks Nest’s Osprey Nolichucky Outpost

Start your adventure by tuning into this engaging episode to learn more about white water rafting in East Tennessee, and stay tuned for more enlightening conversations from the Colin and Carly podcast series!

About the Guest:

Ty Stewart is the owner of Sweet Caroline's Coffee Company, based in Johnson City, Tennessee. With a background in shooting commercials and social media, Ty transitioned to the coffee industry, inspired by his passion for specialty coffee developed during his college years. His coffee company is named after his daughter, Caroline, and it focuses on delivering high-quality, specialty coffee sourced from top-tier producers like Onyx Coffee Labs.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Ty Stewart, the coffee enthusiast and owner of Sweet Caroline's Coffee Company. They discuss Ty's journey from Texas to Tennessee, his unexpected dive into the specialty coffee industry, and the story behind the name "Sweet Caroline's Coffee Company." Listeners will enjoy Ty's insights into the art of coffee making, his passion for quality ingredients, and his experiences as a young entrepreneur.

Throughout the conversation, Ty talks about his love for the mountains of Tennessee, his previous career in video production, and how a joke by his brother-in-law inspired the name of his coffee business. SEO keywords such as "specialty coffee," "Johnson City," and "entrepreneurship" are highlighted as Ty delves into the careful process of creating the perfect cup of coffee. He also shares his experiences working with Onyx Coffee Labs and his plans for the future of his coffee company.

The episode also touches on Ty's personal life, including his enjoyment of NASCAR races and life in Johnson City with his family. He discusses the importance of community and customer interaction, different coffee preparation methods, and the challenges and rewards of running a coffee business from a custom-built trailer.

Key Takeaways:

• From Texas to Tennessee: Ty Stewart shares his journey from growing up in Texas to moving to Johnson City and becoming a coffee entrepreneur.
• Sweet Caroline's Coffee Company: The origin story behind the name and Ty’s dedication to quality and specialty coffee.
• Specialty Coffee Insights: Ty educates listeners about different coffee types, preparation methods, and the importance of high-quality ingredients.
• Challenges of a Mobile Coffee Business: Insights into the logistics, customer engagement, and challenges of operating from a custom-built coffee trailer.
• Personal Passions: Ty’s love for NASCAR and his appreciation for the community and natural beauty of Johnson City.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Caroline is actually my one-year-old. She runs all over the house."
2. "They showed me that specifically milk makes a massive difference in the coffee you're drinking."
3. "I have my regular, which is a monarch, kind of a more traditional blend, and then I have one called geometry from Onyx."
4. "I usually tell people she's in a lot of debt and not me."
5. "Getting that specialty coffee in your hand is just a good goal of mine."

Resources:

• Sweet Caroline's Coffee Co. Instagram
• Sweet Caroline's Coffee Co. Facebook
• Breaker Barber Company

Be sure to tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about the fascinating world of specialty coffee, the journey of an entrepreneurial spirit, and the vibrant community life in Johnson City. Stay connected for more inspiring stories and practical insights from the Johnson City Living podcast.