Johnson City Living

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Landon Owen, Vice President of Consumer Sales at Bristol Motor Speedway. Landon shares insights about his professional journey, the unique charm of Johnson City, and the excitement of working in sports. The conversation also delves into Landon's passion for golf, his impressive course portfolio, and his fascinating Golf Crusade project. Listen in to discover more about the thriving community and sports culture in Johnson City, as well as Landon's adventures in the world of golf.

00:00 A Beautiful March Day in Johnson City

00:14 Introducing Landon Owen

00:53 Landon's Journey to Johnson City

02:58 Career in Sports and Ticket Sales

05:53 The Bristol Motor Speedway Experience

10:19 Challenges and Rewards in Ticket Sales

15:06 Exciting Events at Bristol Motor Speedway

20:31 Landon's Passion for Golf

22:37 The Birth of Golf Crusade

23:06 Building the Golf Crusade Website

23:42 Journey to 600 Courses

24:32 Golf Crusade's Impact and Philosophy

25:33 Challenges and Future Goals

28:20 Top Golf Courses Played

31:31 Honoring Golf Architect Mike Strantz

35:51 Promoting Golf Crusade and Local Golf

39:41 Reflections on Bristol and Community

43:21 Conclusion and Farewell

Inside the Whiskey Industry: Kat Scalf's Journey from Wine to Whiskey

In this episode, host Colin Johnson sits down with Kat Scalf, the Regional Sales Manager for Happenstance Whiskey. Kat discusses her roots in Johnson City, her journey in the alcohol industry, and her role in promoting a women-owned whiskey company. She shares insights about the unique qualities of Happenstance Whiskey, the challenges of breaking into the market, and her passion for the Magnolia Project, a non-profit supporting women in need. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, career growth, and the art of whiskey making.

00:00 Introduction and Weather Update
00:14 Meet Kat Scalf
00:38 Favorite Things About Johnson City
02:13 Kat's Background and Journey
03:14 Happenstance Whiskey
09:01 The Alcohol Industry and Trends
10:50 Personal Stories and Experiences
16:16 Whiskey Tasting and Tips
24:36 Insights from Industry Experts
25:11 Jack Daniels' Global Dominance
25:50 Bourbon Women's Brunch Event
26:40 The Magnolia Project: Empowering Women
28:26 Personal Reflections and Influences
35:26 Navigating the Alcohol Industry
35:43 Challenges and Resilience
40:59 The Three-Tier System and Distribution
42:48 Brand Ambassadors and Marketing
43:57 Private Tastings and Pairings
46:43 Connecting with the Community
48:57 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Frankie Bailey is the Owner of The Coffee Company. The Coffee Company coined "The living room of Elizabethton," has been a foundation of the downtown community for 27 years. Frankie has been running this business for 7 of those years and loves the community and the magic that happens over an amazing cup of coffee and healthy nourishing food.  The Coffee Company housed in a building built in 1937, offers the environment and ambiance perfect for meetings, studying, collaborations and celebrations of any kind. The heart of leadership development and community growth has led Frankie to volunteer her time sitting on multiple boards including Main Street Elizabethton and the Chamber of Commerce. She spends her free time and most treasured time having fun and supporting her two daughters whose lives keep her on her toes! She loves playing with her Great Pyrenees pup, Walter and sweet elderly cat, Jack Copper Bottom. 

Connect with Frankie & The Coffee Company:
 Instagram- @thecoffeeco_tn 

 Facebook- The Coffee Company 

Order online at https://tncoffeecompany.com/

 Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, community engagement, or just love a good cup of coffee, this episode has something for everyone!

00:00 Introduction and Weather Talk

00:31 Welcoming Miss Frankie Bailey

01:49 Frankie's Background and Journey

04:22 The Coffee Company Story

11:51 Community Involvement and Future Plans

20:11 First Job Experiences

21:46 Working in the Coffee Industry

23:08 Influential People and Mentors

24:33 Challenges of Running a Business

32:37 Community and Personal Life

36:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Kristy Dunn is a dynamic entrepreneur and business owner at the Stretch Zone in Johnson City. With a background in social work and experience running a social work agency, Kristy combines her passion for holistic health with entrepreneurship. Her business focuses on practitioner-assisted stretching, promoting healthy lifestyles through non-invasive techniques. Kristy's journey demonstrates her commitment to providing unique wellness solutions and fostering community partnerships.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, Colin Johnson converses with Kristy Dunn from the Stretch Zone, who discusses the innovative practice of practitioner-assisted stretching. As a devoted advocate of holistic health, Kristy shares how her business helps clients improve mobility and wellness through stretching techniques. The episode navigates through the different benefits her company offers to support community health without relying on medications.

Dive into the heart of Johnson City as Kristy shares her favorite local restaurants, highlighting the culinary delights from downtown Johnson City to Blountville's hidden gems. She shares her journey from owning a social work agency to finding her niche with the Stretch Zone franchise, revealing her passion for ensuring clients reap the benefits of consistent stretching routines. The episode also delves into the challenges and rewards of hiring and training practitioners committed to client care. Kristy contrasts the Stretch Zone's method with other health and wellness avenues, emphasizing the unifying goal of bettering community health through complementary practices like chiropractic care and massage.

Key Takeaways:

• Stretch Zone offers practitioner-assisted stretching, improving clients’ flexibility and mobility with professional guidance.
• Kristy is building networks with local wellness businesses in Johnson City for collaborative healthcare approaches.
• The conversation explores new job opportunities at Stretch Zone, seeking individuals with anatomy backgrounds, while offering corporate training.
• Kristy aims to incorporate more holistic, non-invasive health strategies, including a health forum with other professionals in the industry.
• There is a robust discussion about the benefits and future developments in Johnson City's restaurant and wellness sectors.

Notable Quotes:

• "Our trained practitioners do all the work, and you get all the benefits." – Kristy Dunn
• "If you're not moving, you're dying. Movement is crucial to staying healthy and young." – Kristy Dunn
• "Stretch Zone was born from a desire to help more people than just the elite athletes." – Kristy Dunn
• "We invite anyone in the area that would love to check us out to do so." – Kristy Dunn

Resources:

• Stretch Zone: Check out the Stretch Zone's official website for information about locations, services, and contact details.
• Facebook: Search for Stretch Zone Johnson City to find their social media page.
• Instagram: Follow Stretch Zone Johnson City on Instagram for updates and wellness tips.
• Call for Appointments: Contact Stretch Zone at 423-430-6869

Explore the myriad benefits of practitioner-assisted stretching with Kristy Dunn and stay tuned for more engaging discussions in upcoming episodes of Johnson City Living. Listen to the full episode to catch all insights and discover the vibrant life in Johnson City.

About the Guest:

Brenda Mock Brown is the head women's basketball coach at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), entering her third season in this role. Coach Brown has an extensive career in collegiate basketball, having served as both an assistant and head coach at various institutions, including Georgia Tech and UNC Asheville. She boasts a background as a former professional basketball player in France and holds a master's degree in education. Brenda's coaching philosophy is grounded in strong relationship-building and player development, focusing on both athletic and personal growth for her team members.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson welcomes Coach Brenda Mock Brown, the vibrant head coach of the ETSU women's basketball team. As they dive into the world of collegiate women's basketball, Brenda shares insights into her coaching journey, her experience playing professionally in France, and the dynamic changes in college athletics, including the impact of the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) regulations. Through a mix of humor and heartfelt stories, the discussion explores the challenges and rewards of building a competitive basketball team at ETSU, set against the backdrop of the charming Johnson City community.

Coach Brenda delves into her upbringing in Waynesville, NC, and her academic and athletic journey through Wake Forest University, which eventually led her to a fulfilling coaching career. This episode is rich with valuable SEO keywords like "ETSU women's basketball," "NIL regulations," and "college sports culture," encapsulating Brenda's holistic approach to coaching both on and off the court. Listeners are invited to learn more about the unique aspects of the ETSU women's basketball program, including the engaging atmosphere at Brooks Gym and upcoming events and camps designed to foster young athletes' passion for the sport.

Key Takeaways:

• Brenda Mock Brown highlights the significance of developing strong relationships with her players, fostering a supportive and transformative basketball program at ETSU.
• The podcast discusses the evolving landscape of college athletics with the increasing influence of NIL regulations and the NCAA transfer portal.
• Brenda emphasizes the importance of community support, inviting residents to attend women's basketball games to experience the excitement and teamwork firsthand.
• The episode showcases the diverse academic and extracurricular offerings at East Tennessee State University, aiming to attract prospective students and athletes.
• Insights into Coach Brown's personal journey reveal the importance of adaptability, faith, and perseverance in navigating the complex world of collegiate sports.

Notable Quotes:

• "I believe we can win. I believe in this team." – Brenda Mock Brown
• "Coaching is about results through relationships." – Brenda Mock Brown
• "I don't want to be something our student-athletes have to overcome." – Brenda Mock Brown
• "The Lord's hand was on my life, even when I wasn't asking." – Brenda Mock Brown
• "It's not the role; it's how you do the role." – Brenda Mock Brown

Resources:

• ETSU Athletics: ETSU Athletics Official Website
• Follow ETSU Women's Basketball on social media for updates, game schedules, and behind-the-scenes content.

Don't miss this episode that offers a genuine glimpse into the compelling world of college basketball coaching as Coach Brenda Mock Brown shares her experiences and vision for the future. Tune in for more episodes of the Johnson City Living podcast to discover stories that celebrate the vibrant community of Johnson City.

About the Guest:

Candice Hilton is the founder of Hilton Horizons Academy, a hybrid micro school for K-8 homeschoolers. As a former public school teacher, Candice transitioned into homeschooling to foster personalized education that emphasizes flexibility, enrichment, and community-oriented learning. With her profound commitment to educational innovation and personalized instruction, she has developed a thriving environment where children can excel and explore their passions.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode, Colin Johnson hosts Candice Hilton, the innovative mind behind Hilton Horizons Academy, on the "Johnson City Living" podcast. Amid discussions about living in Kingsport and the local educational landscape, Candice delves into her motivations for starting a hybrid micro school and how it caters to homeschoolers by balancing traditional education with personalized learning experiences. As a former public school teacher, Candice's insights into the educational needs of children and her solutions through Hilton Horizons Academy offer listeners a fresh perspective on alternatives to conventional schooling.

Candice Hilton shares her journey from public school teaching to founding Hilton Horizons Academy, a unique hybrid micro school designed to blend the homeschooling spirit with enriched educational opportunities. The Academy offers a flexible schedule, personalized curriculum, and hands-on learning activities, aiming to build a nurturing environment where children thrive. With discussions centering around the increasing homeschool trend, Candice provides key insights and practical advice for parents considering homeschooling, highlighting the Academy as a supportive partner in this educational journey. From innovative teaching methods to community integration, this episode vividly captures the essence of redefining education.

Key Takeaways:

• Hybrid Micro School Concept: Hilton Horizons Academy offers a blend of homeschool flexibility with structured, enriching educational experiences.
• Community and Personalization: The academy focuses on personalized lesson plans and enlists community members to enhance student learning.
• The Homeschooling Trend: Candice discusses the growing popularity of homeschooling and how her academy supports parents through this transition.
• Hands-On Learning Activities: The school incorporates activities like fossil making, Spanish lessons, and art classes to foster deeper engagement and understanding.
• Vision for Growth: While keeping a small scale to retain personalized learning, Hilton Horizons Academy aims to expand its reach and potentially include high school levels.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Wouldn't it be great if we could just bring it all together? So we actually help parents get started with homeschooling."
2. "It's all in one place. And I thought, if my daughter would love this, then the community would love this."
3. "Just listen to them and value them and just take into what they're telling you, it's amazing."
4. "Homeschooling and things like this, you can adapt that as well."
5. "It's amazing just to be able to be the parent and be the person that's seeing them as they grow."

Resources:

• Hilton Horizons Academy Website: hiltonhorizonsacademy.com (URL provided as a reference for readers)

Encouraging listeners to delve into the full episode promises a deeper understanding of the dynamic and nurturing environment at Hilton Horizons Academy and how it reimagines the homeschooling experience. Stay tuned for more enlightening content and real-life solutions from the Johnson City Living podcast series.

About the Guest:

Polly Horne is a licensed architect and owner of PolyArch Architecture and Design. Boasting an impressive educational background with an architecture degree from the University of Tennessee, Polly's career has spanned various locations, including Knoxville, New York, and now Johnson City. Her experience includes working with renowned firms and craftsmen, focusing on high-end residential projects and expanding into affordable housing. Polly moved back to Tennessee in 2022, drawn by her love for the mountains, where she continues to weave her architectural expertise with a commitment to sustainability and community resilience.

Episode Summary:

Join host Colin Johnson as he delves into the intricacies of architecture and community resilience with Polly Horne in this captivating episode of his podcast. Polly, architect and founder of PolyArch Architecture and Design, shares her journey from Tennessee to New York City and back, painting a vivid picture of her experiences and the evolution of her career. This conversation broadens horizons on adaptive reuse, sustainable architecture, and the challenges of rebuilding communities post-disaster, especially focusing on the impact of recent floods in the area.

Polly discusses her architectural philosophy, which includes not only creating aesthetically pleasing spaces but also emphasizing energy efficiency through the Passive House standard. As a passionate advocate for community building, she shares insights into her efforts through Studio Hum, a shared space fostering art, meditation, and architectural practices. Polly further elaborates on her involvement with the Regional Resilience Subcommittee, aimed at improving the community's ability to withstand and recover from natural disasters. Listeners will gain a deep understanding of how architectural practices can harmonize with environmental stewardship and community resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Polly Horne blends her architectural skills with sustainability, focusing on energy-efficient design using the Passive House principles.
• PolyArch Architecture collaborates on diverse projects, from high-end residences to community-enhancing endeavors like new spa constructions and lakeside homes.
• Polly's community-focused vision includes Studio Hum, a space nurturing Zen meditation, art, and architecture.
• Through her involvement with the American Institute of Architects' Regional Resilience Subcommittee, Polly is committed to advancing the community’s response and recovery to future climate-related challenges.
• The conversation emphasizes the power of mindful design in creating spaces that respect both client desires and the natural environment.

Notable Quotes:

• "My focus really is high-end residential, but also that has been expanding into, you know, middle and lower income affordable housing as well."
• "A house doesn't have to look like that. You know, like, there's so many possibilities that you're just not seeing."
• "By doing it one house at a time," Polly explains how she plans to change the architectural landscape.
• "Passive House standard… ensures that the building is functioning as efficiently as possible."
• "I'm listening to you, the client, and trying to respond in a sensitive way to give you the best design possible."

Resources:

• Polly Horne: https://www.polyarch.studio/
• Studio Hum: studiohum.org

For a more in-depth exploration of these themes and insights, listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more enlightening discussions from the podcast series.

About the Guest:

Josh Cook is a former police officer and the founder of Enter the Lion, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to supporting first responders and military personnel. After experiencing personal struggles with trauma while working as a police officer, Josh was inspired to create a community that offers spiritual and emotional support to others in similar positions. He now focuses full-time on this ministry, running retreats and programs aimed at healing and equipping those in service fields. Josh is also pursuing a degree in counseling to further enhance the support he offers through Enter the Lion.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode, Colin Johnson welcomes Josh Cook, the founder of Enter the Lion, to the Johnson City Living podcast. Despite the frigid winter weather, they delve into Josh's inspiring journey from being a police officer in Maryland to leading a nonprofit ministry based in Johnson City focused on supporting first responders and military personnel. With a focus on healing and faith, Josh shares the motivation behind his transition and the events that spurred the establishment of Enter the Lion, a nonprofit organization that helps service members with their mental and spiritual health through retreats and community support.

Colin and Josh explore the nuances of hearing the calling of God and the steps of obedience that led Josh to move to Johnson City and start the ministry. Josh highlights the unique challenges that come with trauma experienced in law enforcement and service roles, emphasizing the importance of community and faith in overcoming such hurdles. The episode touches on Josh's personal experience with trauma, the community built around Enter the Lion, and the life-changing impact it has on participants. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the call for supporting first responders through prayer and participation in local ministries.

Key Takeaways:

• Josh Cook transitioned from a fulfilling career in law enforcement to establish Enter the Lion, a ministry aimed at helping first responders cope with trauma.
• The organization's name embodies their mission of encouraging service members to embrace their calling with courage and boldness.
• Enter the Lion offers free retreats across the country, providing spiritual support and community to first responders and military personnel in need.
• Josh is furthering his understanding of trauma and healing by pursuing a degree in counseling, which complements his ministry work.
• Community support, through prayer and resources, plays a crucial role in sustaining the ministry and helping it reach more individuals.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The Lord would ask us to be obedient and just submit to him, and then he would reveal kind of the next piece."
2. "Because Christ died on the cross and was resurrected, he defeated our greatest enemy, which is death."
3. "My husband's come home a different man. He's come home a different dad."
4. "Every time you say yes to something, you say no to something else."
5. "It's not my job to reach the nation, and I never will. But I can reach a few people for sure, and they can reach people."

Resources:

• Enter the Lion Website
• Enter the Lion on Social Media: Search for "Enter the Lion" for more information and engagement opportunities.

Encourage listeners to tune into the full episode for a comprehensive insight into Josh Cook’s impactful journey and the transformative work of Enter the Lion. Stay tuned for future episodes bringing more inspiring stories and discussions.

Sentimental Journeys and Downtown Antiques: An Interview with Cam McAllister

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson speaks with Cam McAllister, the proud owner of Sentimental Journey Antiques, a massive 21,000 square foot antique store located in downtown Johnson City. Cam shares the sentimental story behind the store's name, its rich family history, and the journey of opening a new business amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. They delve into the vibrant community atmosphere of Johnson City, the upcoming store opening, and plans for a grand opening event. Cam passionately discusses his love for antiques, the importance of mental health, and his commitment to supporting small businesses. Tune in to learn more about this exciting new addition to downtown Johnson City and the inspiring story behind it.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:38 Favorite Thing About Johnson City
01:21 The Story Behind Sentimental Journey Antiques
03:51 Challenges and Progress
07:06 Opening and Vendor Opportunities
12:52 Personal Background and Influences
18:00 Jose and the Support System
18:16 Business Challenges and Upgrades
19:07 Booth Pricing and Customization
21:19 Day Jobs and Work Ethic
23:30 Johnson City and Personal Growth
25:02 Overcoming Anxiety and Promoting Mental Health
27:40 Podcasting Journey and Community Connection
33:04 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

About the Guest:

Gary Ellis is a dedicated coffee roaster and entrepreneur with four years of experience in the coffee industry. He started roasting coffee from his porch with a simple setup and has grown his passion into a successful business. Gary is passionate about hospitality and loves serving others through his coffee ventures. Previously, he was associated with Summit Leadership.

Tyler Mackie has a diverse professional background with 20 years of experience in insurance and financial services. He sold his agency in 2019 and transitioned to working with C12, where he focuses on executive development for Christian business owners and CEOs. Tyler has a calling to create spaces for community and has joined Gary in their coffee venture to realize this vision.

Episode Summary:

In this energizing episode, host Colin Johnson is joined by coffee aficionados Gary Ellis and Tyler Mackie to usher in the New Year with inspiring entrepreneurial stories and visions. Taking the audience back to the grassroots of his coffee journey, Gary discusses the modest beginnings from his front porch setup to a growing business in the coffee roasting scene. Meanwhile, Tyler shares his zeal for fostering community through coffee, applying lessons from his rich career in insurance and executive development to their joint venture.

Throughout the conversation, listeners are treated to Gary and Tyler's shared enthusiasm for creating a welcoming, high-quality coffee experience at Open Doors Coffee House, a well-loved local coffee spot they recently acquired. The duo dive deep into their entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing their commitment to quality, community engagement, and ethical business practices. SEO keywords such as "coffee roasting," "community business," and "entrepreneurial journey" are woven through the insightful episode, highlighting the importance of passion and vision in business. As both guests candidly discuss their aspirations for Open Doors, including potential expansion and fostering strong connections with patrons, the episode becomes a testament to the power of community-driven business models.

Key Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurial Vision: Gary and Tyler embody the spirit of entrepreneurship, drawing on their varied experiences to drive their coffee business forward, fostering community and hospitality.
• Commitment to Quality: The meticulous approach to coffee roasting and ethical sourcing reflects their dedication to offering exceptional products and preserving the integrity of their business.
• Community Focus: The core mission of Open Doors Coffee House is to serve as a gathering place for community interaction, encouraging deep conversations and memorable experiences.
• Collaborative Growth: Gary and Tyler highlight the importance of collaboration and shared vision in building their business, aiming to expand and impact more people with their coffee.
• Authentic Connections: The episode emphasizes creating genuine connections with customers and employees, nurturing an environment of trust and excellence.

Notable Quotes:

1. "There's something sacred about a coffee shop. The conversations, the gathering place in the community." – Tyler Mackie
2. "The better the coffee, the more it seemed like the Lord gave me a knack for it." – Gary Ellis
3. "You don't know what bad things you thirst for until you go into a desert and you're thirsty and you're looking for everything to drink." – Gary Ellis
4. "Slow down, enjoy the cup, and the people you're enjoying it with." – Tyler Mackie
5. "Seeing people into where they're gifted, that's kind of the thing that excites me." – Gary Ellis

Resources:

• Open Doors Coffee House: Explore more about their coffee offerings and community space online.
• Gary Ellis on Social Media: Engage with Gary and learn more about his coffee journey.
• C12 Group: Learn about Tyler Mackie's work with executive development.
• Book Reference: Unreasonable Hospitality – A recommended read mentioned during the episode.
• Social Media: Gary Ellis and Tyler Mackie’s presence on Facebook and Instagram for updates and community engagement.

For an inspiring deep dive into the world of coffee, community, and entrepreneurial passion, make sure to listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enriching conversations and insights from the podcast series!