Johnson City Living

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.

About the Guest:

Tosha Yoder is the Event Coordinator at Visit Johnson City, where she plays a pivotal role in orchestrating major events such as the Meet the Mountains festival. With a background in psychology and extensive experience in customer service, she has successfully transitioned into event management. Her attention to detail, organizational skills, and passion for outdoor activities and family-oriented events make her a vital asset to the Johnson City community.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Tosha Yoder, Event Coordinator at Visit Johnson City. The conversation delves into the preparations for the upcoming Meet the Mountains festival, scheduled for August 9th and 10th at Winged Deer Park. Tosha shares behind-the-scenes insights into event planning and highlights the family-friendly and outdoor-focused activities that attendees can look forward to.

Are you ready to discover the vibrant community events happening in Johnson City? Join Colin Johnson as he chats with Tosha Yoder about the much-anticipated Meet the Mountains festival. This episode is filled with details about the festival's offerings, from rock climbing and zip-lining to a unique dog dock diving competition. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, this festival promises a memorable experience.

Not only does Tosha provide a comprehensive overview of Meet the Mountains, but she also touches on her life in Johnson City, her career path, and the local education system. The discussion extends to the broader contributions and collaborations of Visit Johnson City, aiming to promote regional tourism. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamic intersection of community engagement and tourism development.

Key Takeaways:

• Meet the Mountains Festival: Scheduled for August 9th and 10th at Winged Deer Park, offering diverse activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, kayaking, and a Sorba bike obstacle course.
• Family-Friendly Fun: The festival caters to all ages, featuring nearly 93 vendors, educational clinics, and interactive experiences designed to engage both children and adults.
• Local School System: Tosha commends Johnson City's schools for their excellent communication and supportive environment, making it a great place for families to thrive.
• Regional Collaborations: Emphasis on the importance of regional cooperation with entities like Northeast Tennessee Tourism association to bolster tourism and community spirit.
• Personal Insights: Tosha shares her journey from a background in psychology to becoming an event coordinator and reflects on the joys of living in Johnson City.

Notable Quotes:

1. “We thank you for just the Visit Johnson City organization and how they're bringing people to this place that we think is your country.” - Colin Johnson
2. "It takes at least nine months to a year to fully plan out the festival." - Tosha Yoder
3. "Buffalo Mountain is one that we, at Visit Johnson City, really try to push for people to go to." - Tosha Yoder
4. "Just knowing that I get to help those kids experience something worthwhile, it really fires me up." - Tosha Yoder
5. "We have a great lineup of education folks and a great lineup of music which we'll be announcing very soon." - Tosha Yoder

Resources:

• Visit Johnson City:
  • Website: Visit Johnson City TN
  • Email: [email protected]
• Meet the Mountains Festival:
  • Website: MTM Fest
• Johnson City Brewing Company

Ready to dive deeper into what makes Johnson City a special place to live and visit? Listen to the full episode for more exciting details about the Meet the Mountains festival and stay tuned for future episodes filled with community insights and local events.

About the Guests:

Greg and Shirley Mueller are the owners of Olive Oil Divine, a unique specialty store located in Johnson City, Tennessee. With a background in IT and family business, Greg has combined his technical expertise with a passion for high-quality, health-centric products. Shirley, with her experience in construction and business operations, complements Greg by managing customer relations and daily operations. Together, they have grown their business into a local staple, offering a variety of high-quality olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and other gourmet products sourced from around the world.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Johnson City Living," host Colin Johnson speaks with Greg and Shirley Mueller, the dynamic duo behind Olive Oil Divine, a specialty store offering high-quality olive oils and balsamic vinegars in Johnson City, Tennessee. Colin delves deep into their personal backgrounds, their journey into the olive oil business, and the spiritual motivations that drive their enterprise.

Greg and Shirley share how their passion for health benefits and spiritual significance of olive oil inspired them to open Olive Oil Divine. Their store offers over 70 different flavors of olive oil and balsamic vinegar sourced globally. They discuss the health benefits, proper storage, and usage tips for olive oil, emphasizing their commitment to product quality and customer education. Unique in its dedication to community and spirituality, Olive Oil Divine even features a prayer room where customers can meditate and pray. The Muellers also highlight their partnerships with local and national businesses and their future expansion plans, providing valuable insights into running a successful specialty store.

Key Takeaways:

• Starting a Unique Business: How Greg and Shirley Mueller transitioned from their previous careers to open Olive Oil Divine by following a spiritual calling.
• Health Benefits of Olive Oil: Detailed explanation of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of high-quality olive oil and how to use it in cooking.
• Importance of Quality and Integrity: The Muellers' commitment to lab-certifying their products and offering only the best to their customers.
• Community and Spiritual Focus: Their unique inclusion of a prayer room in their store and the positive impact it has on both their business and customers.
• Future Aspirations: Plans for expanding their product range and presence both online and in physical stores, alongside special collaborations like tours to olive oil-producing regions.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The fact that it's in the Bible Belt and the people are just so warm and friendly. We don't have a stranger in Johnson City." - Greg Mueller
2. "Just bring it up to low heat and you'll be just fine. If you overcook it, you'll know it'll start to smell." - Greg Mueller on cooking with olive oil
3. "God moved a lot of mountains to get us in business, and so it was the least we could do for Him, for doing that for us." - Greg Mueller
4. "When you anoint someone, you're basically sharing the spirit of Jesus with them." - Greg Mueller
5. "We don't push it down anybody's throats, but if you come ask about it, we're not going to shy away from it." - Greg Mueller

Resources:

• Olive Oil Divine Website: oliveoildivine.com
• Social Media:
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Truth Social
  • Public Square: Available on Public Square platform

For a deeper dive into the fascinating journey and insightful tips from Greg and Shirley Mueller, listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more inspiring content on the “Johnson City Living” podcast.

About the Guest:

Jose Castillo is a multifaceted professional with a remarkable career spanning various domains such as media, NASCAR, and entrepreneurship. He is the founder of Flavor Inc., Think Jose, and co-hosts NASCAR Trackside Live, a popular talk show in the racing community. Jose is also the mastermind behind Spark Plaza, a pioneering coworking space in Johnson City, Tennessee, which prides itself on fostering community among remote workers. His dynamic career also includes upcoming ventures such as hosting for Team USA House at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Episode Summary:

Join host Colin Johnson as he welcomes his longtime friend and local celebrity, Jose Castillo, for an enlightening discussion. This episode ventures into the heart of Johnson City, capturing the spirit of community, business innovation, and the exhilarating world of NASCAR. Jose, who has been a friend for nearly two decades, shares insights into his life journey—from his humble beginnings in Philadelphia to his achievements in media and the racing arena.

Jose delves into his entrepreneurial endeavors, highlighting the success of Spark Plaza over the past 15 years. He emphasizes the importance of community in coworking spaces and sheds light on the dynamic environment at Spark Plaza which caters to a broad range of remote workers. Moreover, listeners get an insider's perspective on the world of NASCAR, with Jose sharing fascinating stories from his travels and his role in promoting the sport. Be enthralled by his latest exciting project: hosting for Team USA House during the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Key Takeaways:

• Community First: Jose stresses that the success of Spark Plaza lies in its vibrant, supportive community that goes beyond just providing a workspace.
• NASCAR Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of NASCAR's evolution, the impact of the Next Gen car, and insights into the current season.
• Olympic Dream: Jose will be hosting at Team USA House in Paris for the 2024 Olympics, an honor that highlights his expanding influence in international event hosting.
• Work-Life Balance: Despite his busy schedule, Jose maintains a strong family connection, often bringing his family along on travels to NASCAR events.
• Regional Pride: Jose has a deep appreciation for Johnson City and the Tri-Cities area, advocating for regionalism and local community support.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The more I travel, the more I love coming home. And it is a great place to be, a great place to raise a family, a great place to start a business." - Jose Castillo
2. "People think they just need a place to work, but what they really need is community. They need water cooler time. They need somebody to talk to about an idea or about the weekend or about whatever." - Jose Castillo
3. "I'm going to be the host of Team USA House for the Paris Olympics 2024, and it is an honor to represent my country and these amazing athletes who work so hard." - Jose Castillo
4. "In the playoffs, yes, the big teams will be there. But we had some surprises last year, and I think we're going to see the same thing this year." - Jose Castillo
5. "It's funny, I talked to some folks, and they were like, most of these people are so driven that they're like, that fuels me to want to go do it even more." - Jose Castillo

Resources:

• Spark Plaza: Learn more about Jose Castillo’s coworking space.
• Jose Castillo on Social Media: Follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
• Team USA House: Information about the Team USA House for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
• NASCAR Trackside Live: Keep up with Jose's NASCAR hosting here.

Dive into this episode to explore the vibrant essence of Johnson City, the dynamic world of NASCAR, and Jose Castillo’s journey towards hosting the Paris 2024 Olympics. Don't miss out on his valuable insights and stay tuned for more unique stories and inspirations on the show!

About the Guest:

David Wiley is the owner, operator, and manager of Serenity Knoll Farm. With a diverse professional background including roles in advertising, education, and even professional sports management, David ultimately found his calling in East Tennessee's local food and farming community. He is deeply involved in cultivating the farming landscape through Serenity Knoll Farm, organizing community events, and hosting unique culinary experiences. David’s vision extends to contra dance and yoga programs, turning his farm into a multifaceted community hub.

Episode Summary:

On this bright June episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with David Wiley, the multi-talented owner and operator of Serenity Knoll Farm. David shares his fascinating journey from working in advertising and professional sports to becoming a leading figure in East Tennessee's local food movement. Through Serenity Knoll Farm, David offers unique culinary experiences, contributes to local farmers' markets, and hosts community-centric events including yoga and contra dance. The conversation provides rich insights into the farm’s role in fostering community and culture while emphasizing sustainable agriculture.

David Wiley opens up about his life story, from being born in Knoxville and growing up in Memphis, to eventually establishing Serenity Knoll Farm in Jonesboro. He elaborates on what makes Johnson City and Jonesboro idyllic places to live, highlighting factors like low population density, scenic beauty, and friendly locals. An advocate for healthy living, David introduced traditional folk dances to Jonesboro and established a thriving cooking school at his farm. Through Serenity Knoll, he aims to connect people with food in meaningful ways—whether through farm-to-table dining, cooking classes, or community events.

Key Takeaways:

• Community and Culinary Experiences: Serenity Knoll Farm is not just about growing food; it's about community gatherings, from cooking classes to yoga sessions.
• The Importance of Farmers' Markets: David stresses that farmers' markets like the one in Jonesboro are ideal for connecting with local growers and understanding the local food scene.
• Culinary Learning for All Ages: The cooking school at Serenity Knoll Farm offers classes that range from knife skills to ethnic cuisines, aimed at both adults and children.
• Future Aspirations: Serenity Knoll Farm has ambitious plans for expansion, including building lodging options and hosting chef's weekends.
• Health and Dietary Choices: David advocates for the impact of healthy, locally-sourced food as a foundation for good health and community well-being.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It's a wonderful area. I've traveled all over the world, and I always look forward to coming back to the mountains of East Tennessee."
2. "The whole premise was to build communities, to have a social event that was alcohol free. It didn't matter what your [background] was."
3. "Thirty percent of Americans do not cook a single meal. And we're talking about millions of people."
4. "If you have no confidence or no skill in that area to prepare food, it takes a lot of the joy away from the dining experience."
5. "I think being able to put my energy and passion into this dream that I've created of building a business, building a brand, being a part of the local food system as a function of public health, that really excites me."

Resources:

• Serenity Knoll Farm on Facebook: Facebook
• Serenity Knoll Farm on Instagram: Instagram
• Website for Class Registrations and Events: Serenity Knoll Farm

For more enlightening episodes, stay tuned to the Johnson City Living podcast. If you're considering a visit to the charming towns of Johnson City or Jonesboro or interested in experiencing the local culinary scene, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to what David Wiley and Serenity Knoll Farm have to offer. Tune in, and see how Serenity Knoll Farm is building a healthier, more connected community, one meal at a time.

About the Guests:

Ally McElroy: Ally McElroy is the co-owner and instructor at Soluna Sage yoga studio and wellness center in Johnson City. She has a background in elementary education from East Tennessee State University (ETSU) and a rich history with yoga that began in high school. Formerly a school teacher who transitioned during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ally is now a certified yoga instructor passionate about building community and holistic well-being.

Andrew McElroy: Andrew McElroy is the co-owner of Soluna Sage yoga studio and a lifelong Johnson City native. Holding degrees in Political Science from ETSU and a Master's of Business from Tennessee Wesleyan University, Andrew transitioned into the wellness industry alongside Ally. He focuses on the philosophical aspects of yoga and contributes to the operational and strategic planning of the yoga studio.

Episode Summary:

In this vibrant episode, Colin Johnson sits down with Ally and Andrew McElroy, the dynamic duo behind Soluna Sage yoga studio and wellness center. The delightful conversation starts with the couple sharing their roots and what draws them to Johnson City. For Ally, it’s the small-town vibe and walkability, while Andrew passionately discusses his favorite local drink, the Farquaad Fizz, evidencing their deep connection to the community.

As the dialogue progresses, the McElroys dive into their unique journey from converting a van for travel to establishing a thriving yoga studio in downtown Johnson City. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into how to balance physical and mental well-being through yoga. Ally explains their approach to building an inclusive community, addressing the misconception that one needs to be flexible or have a certain body type to practice yoga. Andrew elaborates on the philosophy and mental fortitude that yoga instills, highlighting their innovative classes like Qigong that focus on grounding and holistic health.

The episode takes a fascinating turn when discussing their strategic vision for Soluna Sage, including expanding their online presence and dreaming big about potential retreat centers. Andrew talks about their efforts to maintain the century-old building that houses their studio, tying the past's historical significance to their modern wellness mission. As Colin wraps up, listeners are left motivated to explore yoga for its myriad benefits, from injury reduction and toning to mental clarity and community connection.

Key Takeaways:

• Yoga Benefits: Yoga improves both physical and mental well-being by balancing the body and tuning inward.
• Community Focus: The McElroys are committed to building a welcoming, inclusive yoga community in Johnson City and beyond.
• Innovative Classes: Soluna Sage offers a variety of classes that cater to different needs, including prenatal and restorative yoga.
• Business Strategy: Thorough market research and a cooperative mindset with other local businesses are crucial for success.
• Future Plans: They aim to host off-site yoga classes and eventually open a retreat center between Johnson City and Asheville.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Yoga is really great for not only your physical wellbeing but also just your mental well being." - Ally McElroy
2. "You have to come into a market the size of Johnson City willing to work with the other businesses, including the ones doing what you're doing." - Andrew McElroy
3. "Anybody can come take a class. There's a lot of different styles that we offer that cater to different people and what their goals are and what they're looking for." - Ally McElroy
4. "I think yoga does build that mental fortitude to help you deal better with things in your day-to-day life." - Andrew McElroy
5. "For someone opening a studio, make sure that you do your research and then build a community around it." - Ally McElroy

Resources:

• Soluna Sage: solunasage.com
• Instagram & Facebook: @solunasagestudio
• East Tennessee State University: ETSU

Tune in to this episode to get inspired by Ally and Andrew McElroy's journey and learn how yoga can transform your body, mind, and community. Stay tuned for more engaging content from the Johnson City Living podcast!

About the Guests:

Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt are the dynamic duo behind Jenny Lea Academy and Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa in Johnson City, Tennessee. Terry Kazmier, originally from Washington, DC, is a Milligan College graduate with a degree in accounting and a former pharmaceutical rep. She transitioned into the beauty industry with a focus on spas. Chenoa Pruitt, a licensed esthetician and a graduate of Jenny Lea, has a strong management background and a passion for the skincare aspect of the beauty industry. Together, they are devoted to expanding educational opportunities in aesthetics and building successful beauty businesses.

Episode Summary:

In this riveting episode, Colin Johnson sits down with Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt from Jenny Lea Academy and Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa. The conversation kicks off with a warm introduction to the lovely guests who bring their unique journeys and professional backgrounds to light. Terry and Chenoa share their affection for Johnson City and delve into their respective paths that led them to take on leadership roles in the beauty and wellness industry.

The episode explores the core of Jenny Lea Academy's educational ethos and the expansive services offered at Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa. Through engaging narratives, Terry and Chenoa highlight the importance of accessibility, innovative business models, and comprehensive training programs tailored to the beauty industry. They fervently discuss the lucrative opportunities available for graduates and underscore the misconception surrounding beauty trades versus traditional college degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• Accessibility & Community: Terry emphasizes the ease of access and community-driven support in Johnson City, making it an ideal location for business growth and personal fulfillment.
• Holistic Education: Jenny Lea Academy provides extensive training programs in cosmetology, aesthetics, barbering, and nail technology, ensuring students receive hands-on experience and are job-ready upon graduation.
• Economic Viability: The beauty industry offers significant financial rewards, with graduates often starting out earning between $40,000 to $60,000 annually, emphasizing the strong return on investment.
• Growth & Expansion: Both Terry and Chenoa express aspirations of expanding Jenny Lea Academy to new locations, aiming to increase educational opportunities and support more students in the trade.
• Mentorship & Influence: The conversation sheds light on the profound impact of mentors and community support in achieving entrepreneurial success.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I love the accessibility of Johnson City. Someone knows somebody and can do an introduction. It's like one degree of separation.” - Terry Kazmier
2. "The road to college is not for everyone. You can come out with a 4-year degree and not make that kind of money at all." - Terry Kazmier
3. "I was always managing people, working with people. I knew that was my thing, and it’s why I wanted to own my own business.” - Chenoa Pruitt
4. "For every esthetician we employ at Sugar Mama, it affects our bottom line." - Terry Kazmier
5. "We are not putting out a hobby job; this is a career where you can buy houses, buy cars, and affect the economy." - Terry Kazmier

Resources:

• Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa
• Jenny Lea Academy (contact via phone for services and tours)

For full insights into the compelling journey of Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt, and to grasp the scope of opportunities within the beauty education sector, tune into this enlightening episode. Stay updated with future episodes that continue to showcase inspiring stories and practical knowledge to fuel your entrepreneurial spirit.

About the Guest:

Craig Charles is the entrepreneurial force behind Crown Cutz Academy, having established a significant presence in the barbering and beauty education industry. With a Caribbean background and a journey that took him from Boston to East Tennessee State on a football scholarship, Craig's passion for cutting hair began at an early age. After a stint in NFL football with the San Francisco 49ers, Craig pivoted back to his barbering roots, starting his own business in Johnson City in 2004. Craig's dedication to the craft extended to founding barbering schools and becoming an advocate for mental health training, positioning him as a notable figure both locally and nationally.

Episode Summary:

In this exchange, Colin Johnson warmly welcomes Craig Charles to his podcast, where listeners are invited to discover the multifaceted trajectory of a former NFL player turned barber and educator. The episode opens on a sunny day in Johnson City, setting a relaxed tone for an in-depth look at Craig's contributions to the community, including the inception of Crown Cutz Academy.

Delving into Craig's background, we learn about his start in barbering, his dedication to improving mental health awareness, and his recognition by the state of Tennessee. The conversation flows effortlessly, covering Craig's journey from cutting hair in his youth to addressing mental health in his current work. Social initiatives like training women in jail to become nail technicians are also highlighted. In weaving these narratives, key insights are shared about the importance of living your passion, community involvement, and crafting a fulfilling career path.

Key Takeaways:

• Craig Charles' journey from the NFL to becoming a barber and business owner illustrates the value of transforming passions into professions.
• Crown Cutz Academy isn't just about teaching barbering — it's focused on mentoring students in financial literacy, mental health, and holistic life skills.
• Craig actively volunteers, providing valuable resources and mentorship to the incarcerated community — a testament to his commitment to societal change.
• The success of Crown Cutz Academy has led to the extension of services in the Tri-Cities area and ambitions to open schools in Asheville and Boston.
• A planned tour focused on mental health training showcases Craig's dedication to expand the positive impacts of his industry beyond the salon.

Notable Quotes:

• "If I just teach you how to be a barber, I have done you a diservice. I want you to be a whole person."
• "From a pair of clippers to Capitol Hill, anything could happen."
• "Take your time. Everything happens in time. If you trust your product and you cultivate it, it's going to do you well."
• "You don't have to be alone in this world. There are a lot of people who love you and you don't even know."

Resources:

• Craig Charles' Academy: Crown Cutz Academy ([Website not provided in transcript])
• Podcast: Barber College Success ([Podcast not provided in transcript])
• Mental Health Hotline: 988, the national hotline for suicide prevention
• Event: Reggae Wine and Shine in collaboration with Tennessee Hills Distillery

Encouraged by Craig Charles' engaging story and insights? Dive into the full episode to learn more about his remarkable transition from the gridiron to grooming, his community-driven initiatives, and his contagious enthusiasm for life in Johnson dynamics. Stay tuned for more inspiring content that sheds light on the threads that bind our community together.

About the Guest:

Jonathan Fields is a dynamic marketing strategist and creative advocate based in Johnson City, Tennessee. Known for his versatile skill-set, Jonathan has built a career around guiding small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs in crafting their narratives and finding the best channels for their messages. His approach to marketing is deeply rooted in relational selling, offering customized solutions rather than one-size-fits-all strategies. Besides being a marketing professional, Jonathan is also deeply involved in his community, helping forge connections and foster growth.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Jonathan Fields, a marketing strategist and creative advocate, to delve into the world of storytelling and small business marketing. This dialogue unfolds against the backdrop of the picturesque Johnson City, with the discussion highlighting the importance of community and relational connections in marketing, all while offering practical insights into the trade.

Jonathan Fields shares his journey from growing up in Kingsport to becoming a marketing expert who now calls Johnson City home. His marketing philosophy centers on helping clients tell their unique stories to stand out in a crowded market space. The conversation covers everything from the basics of brand awareness to the intricacies of targeting the right audience. Fields touches on the significance of connecting individuals and businesses and discusses his upcoming opportunity as a speaker at TEDx Johnson City.

Key Takeaways:

• Relational Selling: Effective marketing is about building relationships and understanding the specific stories and needs of clients.
• Brand Awareness Importance: Continual brand awareness campaigns are vital for businesses to maintain a consistent presence and build trust with potential customers.
• Video Production in Marketing: High-quality video production is crucial for brand narratives, enabling businesses to communicate their unique value proposition effectively.
• Challenges of Gaining Trust: One of the major hurdles in marketing is gaining the trust of long-standing businesses reluctant to modernize their marketing approaches.
• Future Endeavors: Jonathan Fields is set to speak at TEDx Johnson City, discussing topics central to community and relationships in Appalachia.

Notable Quotes:

• "The important thing is to be able to meet small businesses, nonprofits, anything around the area that has a story to tell."
• "My clients, that's what all of us do, is we look to find answers for our problems."
• "And the only way you get to know that is to relationally, you get to know the client, you know, what's important to them…"
• "I rewrote it. What do you think about this? Being able to kind of best find, hey, I know you talked to me and you said these things are important. I know your voice."
• "The most useful way to use any of those avenues is to be able to tell what is unique to you."

Resources:

• Jonathan Fields' LinkedIn: Reachable for professional connections and inquiries.
• @jonathanfieldsofficial on Instagram: For insights and updates from Jonathan Fields.

Encourage your entrepreneurial spirit and harness the power of effective marketing by listening to the full episode, featuring the insights of Jonathan Fields. Stay tuned for more inspiring content that can shed light on the paths to success in business and beyond.

About the Guests:

In this episode, we're introduced to Kirsten Turner and Amit Prabhakar, the dynamic duo from icode Tri-Cities. Kirsten Turner, originally from Phoenix, Arizona, has an educational background with experience in teaching and school administration. Amit Prabhakar brings a wealth of knowledge from the IT sector, having immigrated from India in 2007 with a passion for new technologies and cultures. Together, they represent icode Tri-Cities, an organization dedicated to bringing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Art) programs to young students in the Tri-City area.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging conversation with Colin Johnson, Kirsten Turner and Amit Prabhakar discuss the impactful role of STEM education and their organization, icode Tri-Cities. From the favorable community vibe of Johnson City to the nitty-gritty of education in tech and critical thinking, they explore how icode Tri-Cities brings vital educational experiences to today's youth.

The episode delves into the essential nature of STEM, often elaborated as STEAM to include art, and the urgency of preparing students for the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Kirsten and Amit unfold the various offerings of icode Tri-Cities, emphasizing summer camps and programs that extend beyond the realm of basic curriculum to hands-on, interactive learning experiences, thereby sowing the seeds for a generation of innovators and problem solvers.

Key Takeaways:

• icode Tri-Cities is pioneering a new program model to deliver cutting-edge STEM education to the Tri-City area and beyond.
• The STEAM curriculum is designed to engage students with hands-on learning experiences, including robot battles and design projects.
• icode Tri-Cities caters not only to schools but also provides programs accessible to homeschoolers and after-school settings.
• Funding and adapting to local needs are some of the logistical challenges icode Tri-Cities faced while setting up in the Tri-City area.
• Summer camps are a significant part of their offerings, featuring engaging education in robotics, drone coding, and even video game design, emphasizing both fun and learning.

Notable Quotes:

• "STEM is a very unique field where you're basically teaching a child how to think, how to troubleshoot, how to be creative, how to be innovative." - Amit Prabhakar
• "We're taking students to the other side of Roblox, and they were the ones actually building and designing, creating the games." - Kirsten Turner
• "Each year, or the topic that they choose, has a color. So at the end of the year, they will graduate to that color." - Amit Prabhakar, on the upcoming 'belt' program
• "It's not just about creating a curriculum, but also you got to test it, you got to test the code, you got to test the hardware and all that stuff." - Amit Prabhakar

Resources:

• Ico Tri city Website: icodeschool.com/tricitiestn
• Social Media: Follow icode Tri-cities on Facebook and Instagram @icode.tri.cities.

Listen to the full episode to explore the colorful world of STEM education with Kirsten Turner and Amit Prabhakar and discover how icode Tri-cities is nurturing young minds for a better tomorrow. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from this podcast series.