Made in Gainesville

On this episode, we will hear from Amy Meacham, founder of Xtraordinary Joy. Xtraordinary Joy is a non-profit that funds research into an ultra-rare X-chromosome deletion disorder (Xq27.3-q28 deletion) that affects Amy’s daughter. The disorder is so rare that they have only identified 20 other children in 7 different countries with it. We will talk about how the disorder impacts the lives of those who have it, what research is being done to treat it, and how that research could be used as a model to treat other ultra-rare disorders and diseases.

On this episode we will hear from Adam Fehrenbacher, owner of Fehrenbacher’s Artisan Sausages. Adam has an obvious passion for making sausage. He has made and sold over 70 different varieties and thousands of pounds of sausage at his store, where he makes everything with the freshest ingredients by hand. Adam traveled all over the world cooking before deciding to open Fehrenbacher's in the 4th Ave Food Park in Gainesville. Adam and I will discuss how to make sausage, business, and what its like to live in Spain and run his Gainesville-based business remotely.

On this episode, we will hear from Gary McClain, a bodybuilder, personal trainer, diet coach, and DJ.  Gary will share his powerful story of why he got into bodybuilding, and describe the level of intensity and dedication it takes to be a bodybuilder. He will provide nutrition and workout advice for people that want to live healthier and happier lives. We will talk about Instagram and whether or not it's positive for our health and body image. Finally, we will discuss the business side of training, DJing, and how Gary maintains a work/life/family/training balance with all that he has going on.

On this episode, we will hear from Dr. Gordon Hubbell, a retired Zoo veterinarian, and an expert in shark paleontology. Dr. Hubbell was attracted to a career as a zoo vet because he thrived in the unpredictable nature of the job. He will share stories of situations where he had to quickly improvise; such as saving the life of a rare snow leopard and racing to capture 3 escaped hyenas before children began walking to school in the morning.

When Dr. Hubbell retired from zoo life, he followed his passion for sharks and became a well-known shark expert who has been featured on several TV programs, including Discovery Channel’s Shark Week. Dr. Hubbell will conclude by giving us advice on how to become a respected expert in something without formal training in that field.

On this episode, we will hear from Krista McIver & Kristin Birdsey Klapp, Gainesville natives, best friends, and founders of Education Station & Preschool. Kristin & Krista will share some exciting expansion news with us that was made possible through their Gainesville connections.

We will also discuss how they got started, unique situations they face as women business owners, and the daily challenges of running Education Station & Preschool… including “code brown” epic blowouts.

Rick Staab is the CEO of InterMed Group, a national provider of integrated healthcare technology management services, which employs 150 people. Rick founded the charity “Tyler’s Hope” with his wife, which aims to find a cure for Dystonia - a rare neurological movement disorder which affects two of their children. 

Rick and I will discuss InterMed and why Gainesville is a great fit for the company. We will also discuss the progress being made to find a cure for dystonia, as well as his heavy involvement in the community.

On this episode, we will hear from Chris Decker & Mike Calsam - founders of J.E. Decker Construction Group. Chris & Mike will share their startup story, which began over beers at Hogans Heros. We will also discuss methods of attracting and retaining talent, how to build a company that is resistant to economic downturns, and how sacrificing a bit of money in the short term can help your company build an impeccable reputation. 

Jason owns two Maple Street restaurant locations in Gainesville and works in commercial real estate with Avison Young. We will cover a wide variety of topics;  including juggling business with family and faith, giving back to the community, the Lebron vs. Jordan debate, and much more.

On this episode, we will hear from Joe Lowry Sr, a managing partner at Lowry Financial Advisors. Joe will share his advice on how to handle friends and family members asking to borrow money as well as tips on how to increase your net worth.

This episode: Joe Cirulli, founder of Gainesville Health & Fitness Center. Joe began his journey with 12 cents to his name; sleeping both in his car and in the gyms he worked at. In 1978, he managed to open his own gym with just a few thousand dollars. Since then, he has grown multiple facilities to over 130,000 square feet with nearly 500 employees, servicing 28,000 members. This is how he did it.