Johnson City Living

By Colin JohnsonSociety & Culture

Johnson City Living episodes

March 01, 2024 172. Musician Aaron Jaxon discusses his love for Johnson City and his journey in the music industry
About the Guest:
Aaron Jaxon is a multifaceted musician with roots deeply planted in East Texas and branches extending to the beautiful mountains of Johnson City, Tennessee. With over 22 years of musical experience, he has mastered various styles ranging from bluegrass to rock and R&B. Aaron is not just a performer but also an educator, having served as an adjunct professor at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) where he contributed to the bluegrass and country music program. Alongside his teaching, he has developed online guitar courses, finding his unique space in the digital realm of music education. Aaron's passion for music is matched by his dedication to helping others, as demonstrated by his involvement in the recovery community, providing inspiration and hope through his musical talents.
Episode Summary:
In this delightful episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson introduces us to Aaron Jackson, a musician and educator known for his diverse musical talent and dedication to enriching the cultural tapestry of Johnson City. Aaron shares his journey from being a young aspiring guitarist to establishing himself as a respected adjunct professor and online course creator.
From Aaron's early fascination with bluegrass and his move to Johnson City for its reputable bluegrass program at ETSU, to his experience playing in various bands and his shift to online teaching, the conversation unfolds with engaging anecdotes and heartfelt reflections. The episode dives into Aaron's life, revealing his passion for music, his dedication to teaching, and his triumphant struggles, including his personal journey through recovery and his commitment to giving back to his community.

Key Takeaways:
Aaron Jackson brings over two decades of diverse musical experience, with a deep appreciation for the culture and small-town feel of Johnson City, Tennessee.
His musical journey has taken him from playing bluegrass in the churches of East Texas to teaching guitar at ETSU and now to producing online guitar courses.
A dedicated educator, Aaron emphasizes the importance of empathy and patience when teaching music, whether in person or through digital platforms.
Aaron openly discusses his recovery journey, using his story and music to inspire and assist others through difficult circumstances.
With his shift toward digital education, Aaron continues to expand his outreach, harnessing platforms like YouTube and his website to share his knowledge and passion for bluegrass and country guitar.

Notable Quotes:
"What I think I like about it the most is this place has a lot of culture."
"It really does seem like [music] picks you."

Resources:

Aaron Jackson's Website: aaronjaxon.com
Instagram: @aajaxon
YouTube: Aaron Jaxon Guitar

Explore Aaron Jaxon's musical teachings and journey by delving into the full episode, and stay tuned for more compelling stories and insights on the Johnson City Living podcast. Your next inspiration could be just one play button away.
38 min
February 23, 2024 171. Downtown Yoga Center: A Hub for Wellness and Community in Johnson City
Episode Summary:
In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the heart of downtown Johnson City, eager to unravel the tale of a dynamic individual, Rachel Santiago from Downtown Yoga Center. From the outset, this episode promises to deliver insights on entrepreneurship, the profound impact of yoga, and the vibrant life woven into the fabric of Johnson City.
Our conversation glides through Rachel's foundational experiences at Eastern Tennessee State University and her deep appreciation for the diversity and opportunities it brought to her life. We pivot to a vivid description of the charming downtown area, highlighting its unique businesses, delectable dining options, and bustling community. In her musings, Rachel recounts the challenges and joys of taking over the Downtown Yoga Center, painting a picture of the studio as a sanctuary of health and connectivity. Transcending just physical practice, Rachel eloquently speaks to yoga's mental, emotional, and communal benefits, illustrating its role in lifelong wellness.

Key Takeaways:
Rachel Santiago emphasizes the importance of community engagement, both within the university sphere and the vibrant downtown Johnson City area.
Taking over the Downtown Yoga Center was both a challenge and a fulfilling journey marked by learning curves and community support.
Yoga offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond physical wellbeing, including mental relaxation, injury prevention, and aging gracefully.
Downtown Yoga Center is launching their own teacher training program, expanding into Pilates, and exploring additional wellness workshops.
The episode inspires with ideas on how local businesses and individuals can collaborate to address broader community issues.

Resources:
https://www.downtownyogacenter.com/

Contact Colin: https://www.colinandcarly.com/
Johnson City Living is hosted by Colin Johnson with Keller Williams Realty in Johnson City, TN.
Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media LLC

40 min
February 16, 2024170. Guns and Gadgets: A Deep Dive with Second Amendment Defender Jared Yanis
In this compelling episode of Johnson City Living, host Colin Johnson sits down with Jared Yanis, the freedom-fighter behind Guns and Gadgets and the esteemed advocate for Second Amendment rights. As they dive into a conversation that unfurls the beauty of Johnson City and the core American values that thrive in Tennessee, the episode touches upon the significance of the Constitution, gun laws, and the importance of preserving personal freedoms.
Jared Yanis discusses the journey that led him to become an influential voice for gun rights, from his childhood desires to fix societal wrongs to his eventual migration from restrictive Massachusetts to the "free" Johnson City. The narrative evolves, exploring the weight of responsible content creation on YouTube, Jared's commitment to ongoing legislation awareness, and the fast-paced growth of Blackout Coffee. Comprehensive in its scope, the episode reveals Jared's unyielding dedication to protecting and educating citizens about their rights while also giving a personal insight into his family life, values, and aspirations for a unified, freedom-preserving future America.
Key Takeaways:
Jared Yanis's move from Massachusetts to Tennessee was influenced by his desire for freedom and constitutional values.

As owner of Guns and Gadgets, Jared informs citizens about Second Amendment legislation and inspires activism.

Yanis shares his vision for America in 10-15 years, hoping for a return to foundational American values and unity.

Jared is a part-owner of Blackout Coffee, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit beyond his advocacy work.

The episode provides insights on supporting law enforcement and the importance of community engagement.
Links from episode: https://www.youtube.com/@GunsGadgets
https://www.blackoutcoffee.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAibeuBhAAEiwAiXBoJNSq4cY7G-eatMk3sUjguQNw5b7cTfHXzgWcovQfmZ0RBzVffpjo_xoCNS8QAvD_BwE
Contact Colin: https://www.colinandcarly.com/
Johnson City Living is hosted by Colin Johnson with Keller Williams Realty in Johnson City, TN.
Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media LLC
43 min
February 09, 2024 169. Ginseng Mobile Bar: Bringing Craft Cocktails to Your Event
In this episode, we are excited to welcome Tara Baker of Ginseng Mobile Bar to the podcast, where she shares her passion for bringing bar services on the road and her love for her home city, Johnson City. Tara delves into the inspirations that led her to create a mobile bartending service, the growth of her business, and her aspirations for the future.
Tara provides a vivid glimpse into the operations of Ginseng Mobile Bar, detailing their custom offerings and specialty cocktails crafted for their clientele's most special occasions. From the nuances of high-profile events to intimate gatherings, Tara reveals her unique approach to managing a mobile bar service and the significance of personalized experiences. The discussion also explores her connection to the community, her experiences with mentoring figures in the wedding industry, and her views on Johnson City's living and its entrepreneurial spirit.
Head over to GinsengMobileBar.com and follow Tara's journey through her business account on Instagram @GinsengMobileBar for more insights and visually appealing cocktail expertise.

Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media

39 min
February 02, 2024 168. Professional organizer Kylie Wade helps clients declutter and organize their homes
About the Guest(s):
Kylie Wade is the passionate entrepreneur behind Organizing for Life, a business geared towards transforming spaces and lives through expert organization. After moving from Los Angeles to Johnson City, Kylie leveraged her extensive background in project and program management in the tech and sports TV industries to establish her brand. Through her in-home organization services and educational content on social media, Kylie is dedicated to helping people reclaim their homes to support their lifestyles more effectively.
Episode Summary:
In this enlightening episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with professional organizer Kylie Wade, the energetic force behind Organizing for Life. The discussion delves into not just the art and science of organizing spaces, but also the profound impact a well-organized environment can have on everyday life. Kylie shares her journey from a career in tech and television to becoming a full-time entrepreneur, helping individuals transform their cluttered spaces into harmonious havens.
Kylie discusses her transition from the bustling life in Los Angeles to the comparatively tranquil Johnson City, drawing comparisons between the two and highlighting the local charms of her new home. With a focus on creating systems that make maintaining a home easier and less time-consuming, Kylie and Colin touch upon various aspects of home organization, from dealing with accumulated clutter to managing incoming mail.
Key insights from the episode include the value of decluttering, not only for home efficiency but also for mental clarity. Kylie emphasizes the personal satisfaction she gains from seeing the transformation in her clients' lives as she assists them in sustainable organization methods.
Key Takeaways:

A Move to Efficiency: Kylie emphasizes the life-changing power of organization, especially after her move from the congested city life in LA to Johnson City.
In-Home Impact: Kylie's in-home organization services range from dealing with a single cluttered garage to an entire home system overhaul. She stresses the importance of homes supporting one's lifestyle.
Decluttering for Charity: Kylie has a passion for connecting the decluttering process with local nonprofits, ensuring items are repurposed and valued.
Community Connectivity: Through her social media presence and local networking, Kylie has built a community that shares her enthusiasm for organization and productivity.
Inspired Action: She encourages listeners to tackle their organizational challenges one step at a time, offering actionable tips and educational resources to support them.

Notable Quotes:

On Reclaiming Spaces: "Transforming a space is transforming a life… It's about reclaiming a craft studio or a hobby space that feeds my soul so much."
On Simplifying Life: "Every time something new came in, I was like, ‘Do we need this for our lifestyle?’… What burden is this placing upon you as far as maintenance?"
On Personal Drive: "I work pretty tirelessly… racing to that fun moment of like, 'Okay, let's make this beautiful.'"
On Encouraging Decluttering: "Imagine yourself saying, 'I need to get out the Advil,' but you're taking out five things… reduce friction in accessing items you need."

Resources:

Instagram: @organizingforlife
Facebook: Organizing for Life
Website: organizingforlife.org

49 min
January 26, 2024 167. Johnny Bragg, Social Media Influencer, Talks About Life in Johnson City
About the Guest:
Dr. Johnny Bragg, known affectionately as Johnny B on social media, is a charismatic personality with a fervent passion for America and its traditional values. Although he humorously insists he's not the kind of doctor that heals, his prescription is one of patriotism and deep-seated love for his country. A content creator and social media influencer, Johnny B maintains a strong presence on various platforms, including a bustling YouTube channel where he shares his thoughts on the Constitution, freedom, and the spirit of the nation. In addition to his online endeavors, he is the entrepreneur behind Tristar Trading, a t-shirt company that specializes in large runs of merchandise for fellow YouTubers and other online personalities.
Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode of the podcast, our host Colin Johnson sits down with the delightfully engaging Dr. Johnny Bragg, or as his online followers might know him, Johnny B. The conversation meanders through the scenic hills of Johnny B's life journey, his deep-seated affection for Johnson City, and his intriguing engagement with social media as a popular influencer. The episode is a melange of wit, heartfelt discussions on patriotism, and an intriguing look behind the curtain of creating content for passionate online audiences.
From the get-go, the chemistry between Colin and his guest is palpable, translating into delightful exchanges about the charms of Johnson City and the idyllic beauty of its surrounding mountains. But it's not just small talk — Johnny B dives deep into his work as an influencer, sharing the visceral reactions that drive his content and the rollercoaster ride of managing a multi-pronged digital presence. The conversation also sheds light on his foray into entrepreneurship, revealing the origin story of Tristar Trading and the ethos that propels his brand forward.
Key Takeaways:

Dr. Johnny Bragg has a deep-rooted love for traditional American values and expresses this through his work as a social media influencer and content creator.
He shares his candid perspective on the evolution of Johnson City and the importance of preserving its natural beauty and community spirit.
Johnny Bragg speaks about the breadth of work behind the scenes as a digital creator, from editing to managing sponsorships and viewer engagement.
Tristar Trading is a t-shirt company started by Johnny B born from a merger of frustration and opportunity, catering to the merchandise needs of social media personalities.
The discussion on public service and grassroots involvement highlights Johnny B's advocacy for accountability and keeping the American dream alive through action and awareness.

Notable Quotes:

"I bleeping love Johnson City."
"I love America and I love talking about it."
"They [politicians] work for this country and yet they only work for themselves."
"My generation got to experience some really cool times."
"I believe in this country. I really do. I love this country and I'm not done fighting for it yet."

Resources:

Johnny B's YouTube Channel: Johnny B
Johnny B's Instagram Handle: https://instagram.com/appalachiabees/
https://www.tristartrading.com/

Listen to the full episode to delve into the life and aspirations of Johnny Bragg and get inspired by his take on patriotism, entrepreneurship, and the beauty of Johnson City's community. Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations and be sure to check out Johnny B's content for a dose of humorous yet thoughtful commentary on today's America.
52 min
January 25, 2024166. Grateful Gnomads: From Johnson City and Detroit to Digital Nomads in China
About the Guests:
Sasha and Rachel are the duo behind "Grateful Gnomads," an online platform dedicated to sharing insights and experiences from their lives as digital nomads. Sasha, originally from Detroit, has a background in music and media, having grown up in a city known for its rich musical heritage. Meanwhile, Rachel hails from Johnson City and studied Music Business at Appalachian State University, equipped with experience in event volunteering and coordination. Their shared passion for music and travel led them to work and travel across the globe, paving a path away from traditional lifestyles to one that embraces cultural exploration and remote work.
In this engaging episode, we are introduced to Sasha and Rachel, the "Grateful Gnomads," who share their extraordinary journey from conventional lives to becoming full-time digital nomads. The episode captures the essence of their adventurous spirit, diverse experiences, and the unique lifestyle that allows them to travel the world while working remotely. Colin Johnson, the host, delves into the stories behind their travels, from their beginnings to the present day.
The discussion provides an intimate look into what it's like growing up in Johnson City versus the suburbs of Detroit and offers insight into Sasha and Rachel's career paths and how they transitioned into a nomadic way of life. Exploring their work as English teachers in China to their experiences living in places like Bali and Mexico, the conversation highlights the adjustments and opportunities that come with digital nomadism. Moreover, it discusses the challenges they faced, such as the impact of the pandemic on their teaching jobs.
Sasha and Rachel's journey began when they met at a music festival and continued as they pursued careers in China and eventually travel blogging.

They emphasized the freedom of digital nomadism but also acknowledged the challenges, such as dealing with different work visas and the lack of a permanent home.

Rachel has adapted to recent changes by starting her own online English teaching business, while Sasha found a full-time remote job with a ticket company.

They shared insights on travel hacking and how they utilize credit card bonuses and deals to fund their travels.

The couple revealed their love for Mexico as a nomad-friendly location, balancing their remote work with the cultural richness the country offers.
"Music was always a big part of my life. And then at app state, I studied music business, which was a really good reason for me to go to all the concerts and all the festivals because I was doing research." - Rachel

"We start our own blog. I was already doing the stuff for the language company. I was like, I like to fancy myself a halfway decent writer. Someone's paying me to write." - Sasha

"The freedom it provides is so worth it, but it is not easy." - Rachel, on the digital nomad lifestyle.

"We were like, I got into this program in Bali. Awesome. One of the best, if not the best, experience of our lives, hands down." - Sasha

"We have done so much traveling around Mexico and just absolutely love the place. And we hate Cancun, by the way. Cancun in mayan language means snake pit." - Sasha

Links fro episode:

Website - https://www.gratefulgnomads.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/gratefulgnomads
IG - https://www.instagram.com/gratefulgnomads/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@gratefulgnomads
The Digital Nomad Income Blueprint course - https://grateful-gypsies.ck.page/4be93d5f15
The Teacherpreneur Academy - https://bridge.edu/tefl/teacherpreneur-academy

Contact Colin: https://www.colinandcarly.com/
Johnson City Living is hosted by Colin Johnson with Keller Williams Realty in Johnson City, TN.
Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media LLC
44 min
January 12, 2024165. Event planner Brandy Woodall shares insights and tips for successful event planning
About The Guest(s):
Brandy Woodall is the owner of Pop Event Company, a popular event planning company based in Johnson City, Tennessee. With over 18 years of experience in the industry, Brandy has become a go-to resource for individuals and businesses looking to create memorable and successful events. She is known for her creativity, attention to detail, and ability to bring her clients' visions to life.
Summary:
Brandy Woodall, owner of Pop Event Company, shares her journey as an event planner and the services her company offers. She emphasizes the importance of creating a memorable experience for clients and discusses the process of planning an event, from initial consultation to execution. Brandy also highlights the impact of community involvement on business growth and shares some of her favorite events she has planned. She envisions expanding her business with satellite offices in different regions and continues to seek opportunities for growth and improvement.
Key Takeaways:
Event planning is a dynamic and creative industry that allows entrepreneurs to leave their mark on different stages of an event.

The experience of attendees is the most important aspect of an event, and event planners should strive to make them feel good from start to finish.

Planning an event requires careful consideration of logistical details and early booking of vendors to secure the best resources.

Corporate events, client appreciations, and employee appreciation events are effective ways for businesses to engage with their clients and employees.

Weather can be a significant challenge for outdoor events, and event planners must have backup plans in place to ensure a seamless experience for attendees.
Quotes:
"As an entrepreneur, people are able to put their stamps on the different stages. So it's just a cool creative community. And just to see it flourish is one of my favorite things." - Brandy Woodall

"The experience is the most important part. If they feel good when they enter and they feel better when they leave, it's even better." - Brandy Woodall

"The more time you give someone, the better resources you're going to have." - Brandy Woodall

"If you pour back into your employees, they'll produce even better." - Brandy Woodall

"Weather is one of the most difficult challenges in event planning, especially when it changes the vision of the event." - Brandy Woodall
Links from Episode: https://popeventcompany.com/
Contact Colin: https://www.colinandcarly.com/
Johnson City Living is hosted by Colin Johnson with Keller Williams Realty in Johnson City, TN.
Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media LLC
35 min
January 05, 2024 164. Rebekah Freedom: A Relationship Healer's Journey to Johnson City
About The Guest:
Rebekah Freedom is a relationship healer and the founder of Rebecca Freedom Coaching. She has a background in biology and psychology and has been working in the field of addiction and mental health for many years. Rebekah is passionate about helping people build healthy relationships and find healing in their lives.

Summary:
Rebekah Freedom is a relationship healer and the founder of Rebecca Freedom Coaching. She shares her journey from growing up in California and Colorado to moving to Johnson City, Tennessee. Rebekah discusses the importance of mental health and the need for support and healing in the community. She also talks about her approach to counseling and coaching, emphasizing the importance of prevention and building emotional intelligence. Rebekah highlights the role of relationships in our lives and the need for deep connections and community. She offers her services to individuals and couples who are looking to improve their relationships and find healing.

**Key Takeaways:**
- Mental health support is crucial in every community, and there is a need for more resources and healing in Johnson City.
- Building emotional intelligence and self-awareness is essential for healthy relationships and personal growth.
- Relationships are where we are wounded, but they are also where we can find healing and growth.
- It is important to have safe people and spaces where we can be vulnerable and unburden ourselves.
- The journey of healing and self-discovery is a lifelong process, and it requires reflection, self-compassion, and support.
54 min
December 29, 2023163. Piere's Marketplace: Bringing Local, Organic Groceries to Downtown Johnson City
About The Guests):
Piere and Jules Herrman are the owners of Piere's Marketplace, a local grocery store in Johnson City, Tennessee. Piere has extensive experience in the grocery industry, having worked for major corporations like Kroger and HEB. Jules is a foodie and passionate about supporting local businesses.
Summary:
Piere and Jules Herrman share their journey of opening Piere's Marketplace, a curated grocery store in downtown Johnson City. They discuss their love for the community and their passion for providing clean, natural, and organic foods to their customers. The couple also talks about the importance of supporting local vendors and their plans for the future of Piere's Marketplace.
Key Takeaways:
Piere's Marketplace offers a wide range of natural, organic, and local products, including bread, pastries, milk, poultry, beef, soaps, and more.

The couple aims to provide quality food and educate customers about where their food comes from.

They plan to expand their online presence and offer online ordering and delivery services in the future.
Quotes:
"We want to bring that joy to other people and provide a place where someone can shop local and find cool snacks." - Jules Herrman

"We fell in love with Johnson City and saw the need for a grocery store in the downtown area." - Piere Herrman
44 min

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We're chatting about the people, places, events, and flavors that make Johnson City, Tennessee a lovely place to live. An interview show hosted by Colin Johnson.

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