Meet Me In Tennessee

Summary

In this episode of Meet Me In Tennessee, host Jenna explores the vibrant hospitality scene in Northeast Tennessee with guests Joel Dalhauser from the Carnegie Hotel and Ramona Jackson from MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center. They discuss the unique offerings of their hotels, share personal experiences with guests, and highlight local attractions and festivals. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry and upcoming events in Kingsport, culminating in recommendations for a perfect 24-hour itinerary in the region.

Takeaways

Northeast Tennessee is a popular destination for visitors.
The Carnegie Hotel has a rich history and offers a unique experience.
Meadowview Marriott is known for its extensive convention space and renovations.
Local restaurants and attractions are highly recommended by hotel staff.
The area hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
COVID-19 significantly impacted the hospitality industry, leading to changes in guest preferences.
The region has seen an increase in leisure travel post-COVID.
Community and Southern hospitality are key features of the area.
Guests often share memorable and sometimes wild stories from their stays.
Kingsport is set to host the Governor's Conference, showcasing the tourism industry.

Exploring Northeast Tennessee's Outdoor Wonders with Naturalist Connie Deegan 

In this episode of 'Meet Me in Tennessee,' hosts Jenna Lafever and Lara Potter welcome guest Connie Deegan, a renowned naturalist and Tennessee Wildlife Federation's Conservation Educator of the Year. Connie shares her journey from Connecticut to Johnson City, TN, and talks about her passion for the outdoors, hiking, and her love for snakes. The discussion covers favorite hiking spots, the importance of outdoor education, and how to prepare for hikes. Connie also shares intriguing personal insights, including her unique habit of eating lunches in graveyards while traveling. Tune in for an enriching conversation about the natural beauty of Northeast Tennessee and outdoor adventures.

00:00 Welcome to Season Three!
01:13 Meet Our Guest: Connie Deegan
02:42 Connie's Journey to Johnson City
04:35 Life as a Naturalist
08:39 Exploring Northeast Tennessee
12:06 Favorite Hikes and Outdoor Adventures
16:54 Childhood Dreams and First Motorcycle
17:55 Long-Distance Motorcycle Adventures
19:02 Exploring Nature and Outdoor Activities
19:24 Favorite Riding Routes in Northeast Tennessee
21:02 Engaging Kids with Nature
25:03 Hiking Essentials and Safety Tips
27:21 Dealing with Snakes on the Trail
30:25 Graveyards: Unusual Lunch Spots
31:18 Final Thoughts and Farewells

Uncovering the True Origins of the Long Island Iced Tea

In this episode of the Season Three premiere, hosts Lara and Jenna take listeners on a journey through Tennessee's rich history with a surprising twist—the true origins of the Long Island Iced Tea. Joined by award-winning bartender Shane Winegar, they uncover the drink's Prohibition-era roots in Kingsport, Tennessee, not in New York as commonly believed. The team discusses the evolution of the recipe, competitions between Tennessee and New York, and how local businesses have embraced this unique heritage. Listeners are also treated to a live, step-by-step creation of the original Kingsport Long Island Iced Tea, complete with a taste test. The episode wraps up with a sneak peek into future plans, including a Long Island Tea Trail to further celebrate and share this delicious piece of Tennessee history.

00:00 Welcome to Season Three
00:11 Exploring Tennessee's Hidden Gems
00:29 Introducing the Hosts and Studio
01:14 The Story of Long Island Iced Tea
01:24 Prohibition Era Tales
01:51 Meet Shane Winegar
04:22 The Kingsport Connection
12:58 The New York Challenge
13:25 Mixing the Perfect Long Island Iced Tea
17:18 Unbelievable Drinking Feats
17:48 Long Island Iced Tea Stories
18:28 The Secret Ingredient: Maple Syrup
18:56 Kingsport's Journey to Victory
21:43 Mixing the Perfect Long Island Iced Tea
23:51 Local Businesses Join the Fun
29:27 Introducing the Long Island Tea Trail
32:04 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Jose Castillo is a dynamic host, emcee, speaker, and entrepreneur based in Johnson City, Tennessee. With a rich background that includes hosting NASCAR races, making salsa on stage for business audiences, and recently serving as a host for Team USA during the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, Jose inspires others with his mission to "add flavor, connect people, and change the world." Known for his love of spicy ideas and eccentric activities, Jose is a well-respected figure in the Johnson City community and beyond.

Episode Summary:

Join hosts Lara Potter and Jenna Lafever for an engaging episode of "Meet Me in Tennessee," where they welcome Jose Castillo, a multifaceted individual making waves in event hosting and public speaking. In this energizing discussion, Lara and Jenna uncover Jose's journey from his first emcee gig at Science Hill High School to becoming a prominent figure hosting NASCAR races and representing Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics. Jose's vibrant enthusiasm for life and dedication to connecting people shines through as he shares personal anecdotes and his love for the Northeast Tennessee region.

The episode dives deep into Jose's experience as a NASCAR host, detailing how he balances hosting duties at races with his passion for creativity, reflected in his love for painting, cooking, and public speaking. Witness the merging of Jose's worlds, especially through stories of celebrity encounters at races and his lifelong connection with the Olympics. His journey to hosting at the Team USA House in Paris is a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and charisma.

Key Takeaways:

• Jose Castillo emphasizes the importance of creativity and connecting with audiences, showcased through his work with NASCAR and Team USA at the Olympics.
• He highlights the value of the Northeast Tennessee community and the opportunities the region offers for both living and working.
• Jose's journey from a high school host to an international stage illustrates the power of persistence, networking, and staying true to one's passion.
• The episode underscores the impact of global events like the Olympics in fostering unity and shared experiences among diverse audiences.
• Listeners are encouraged to pursue their dreams, work methodically, and appreciate the path that leads to once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

Notable Quotes:

1. "As a little kid, I found a power in making people laugh and helping them have fun and engaging them."
2. "The Olympic experience is unlike anything else I've ever encountered."
3. "Work hard, show up, be kind, and those moments will come."

Resources:

• Follow Jose Castillo on social media at Think Jose.
• Visit Johnson City, Tennessee, attractions and the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association.

Listeners are encouraged to dive into the full episode to experience Jose Castillo's captivating storytelling and lively energy firsthand. Stay tuned for more episodes of "Meet Me in Tennessee," where inspiring local stories come to life.

About the Guests:

Chapel Hart: Chapel Hart is a dynamic country music trio hailing from Mississippi, featuring sisters Danica and Devynn Hart, and their cousin Trea Swindle. They gained widespread acclaim after being named to CMT's Next Women of Country in 2021 and have been recognized internationally, earning titles like International Group of the Year. Their notable performances include an appearance on America’s Got Talent and frequent shows at the Grand Ole Opry, a testament to their talent and growing popularity in the country music scene.

Episode Summary:

In this lively episode of "Meet Me in Tennessee," hosts Lara Potter and Jenna Lafever engage with the vibrant personalities of Chapel Hart, a rising country music trio known for their powerful harmonies and compelling storytelling. These Mississippi natives share entertaining anecdotes about their musical journey, from being a Bourbon Street cover band to gracing prestigious stages like the Grand Ole Opry. The discussion explores their musical influences, the creative songwriting process, and how they have carved a niche in the traditionally narrow lanes of country music.

Throughout the conversation, Chapel Hart exudes warmth and confidence, emphasizing their commitment to authenticity in their music. Their breakthrough hit "You Can Have Him, Jolene" offers a fresh and cheeky perspective on Dolly Parton's classic, demonstrating their knack for capturing relatable experiences with a humorous twist. They also discuss collaborating with country stars like Darius Rucker and Gretchen Wilson, teasing an exciting upcoming Christmas album titled "Heartfelt Family Christmas." Whether they're talking about performing for troops overseas or their aspirations for future collaborations, Chapel Hart remains grounded and full of Southern charm, making this episode a must-listen for country music enthusiasts and podcast followers alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Chapel Hart is celebrated for their bold songwriting and authentic storytelling, earning them international recognition and several awards.
• Their hit "You Can Have Him, Jolene" is a playful response to Dolly Parton's classic, embodying their unique spin on traditional country themes.
• The trio often collaborates with other artists, including Darius Rucker; they're soon to release a new Christmas album featuring various renowned artists.
• They cherish their connection with iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry, describing it as a familial and welcoming environment that feels like home.
• Chapel Hart demonstrates a strong commitment to their roots, reflected in their music that resonates with fans globally, transcending typical genre boundaries.

Notable Quotes:

1. “As a country music artist, you dream that one day you'll play the Grand Ole Opry. The fact we've been back time and time again is incredible.”
2. “We've always been Dolly Parton fans. Her story songs made us fall in love with country music.”
3. "Collaborating with Gretchen Wilson on our Christmas album was a dream come true for us."
4. “We like to tell the truth, honey. We write it down and sing it as it is.”
5. “If they'll take Gretchen Wilson, I think they'll take me. She was our version of a black woman in country music.”

Resources:

https://www.chapelhart.com/

Encouraging listeners to dive into the full episode allows them to fully appreciate the humor, insights, and warmth that Chapel Hart shares, as they continue to make waves in the country music industry. Stay tuned for more engaging content from "Meet Me in Tennessee."

About the Guest:

Josh Mancuso is a Tennessee-based actor, comedian, and social media sensation known for his hilarious college sports videos and Coach Lance character. With a background in marketing and video production, Josh has leveraged his comedic talents into a growing career in the entertainment industry. His viral videos have earned him millions of views and opportunities to collaborate with notable figures in sports and entertainment.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Meet Me in Tennessee," hosts Lara Potter and Jenna Lafever sit down with Josh Mancuso, a local comedian and social media star known for his entertaining college sports videos. The conversation covers Josh's journey from a Mass Communications graduate at Emory & Henry College to a viral internet sensation, highlighting the impact of social media on his career trajectory.

The hosts discuss Josh's early days in Kingsport and Johnson City, his transition into entertainment, and his unique comedic style that resonates with millions of fans. Josh shares insights into his creative process, from writing scripts to filming and editing his famous videos. He also reveals behind-the-scenes stories of working with notable personalities like Tony Vitello and Cooper Manning. This episode delves into Josh's recent projects and his plans for the future, including his ambitions to expand into more diverse entertainment roles.

Key Takeaways:

• Josh Mancuso's Journey: From a Mass Communications major to a social media sensation and actor, Josh's career path is an inspiring example of leveraging talent and social media.
• Creative Process: Josh offers a glimpse into his creative world, discussing how he writes, films, and produces his popular videos.
• Collaborations with Sports Figures: Stories from working with notable personalities like Tony Vitello and Cooper Manning, showing how his comedy intersects with sports.
• Community and Family Life: The episode highlights Josh's love for Johnson City and Northeast Tennessee, discussing the local community and family activities.
• Future Ambitions: Insights into Josh's future projects, including the "Josh Mancuso Show" and potential ventures in mainstream entertainment.

Notable Quotes:

1. “I’ve always wanted to entertain people…but it seemed, like, so far-fetched of an idea or dream.” - Josh Mancuso
2. “The great thing about social media is that you can take people like me, who are artists, and they have a platform to do it.” - Josh Mancuso
3. “The video that really launched it was my Auburn mascot video…it went a million views within a few days.” - Josh Mancuso
4. "Johnson City is a great place, because there's a lot of cool things to do." - Josh Mancuso
5. “People just listening and they're like, what are they doing? You think, with their…” - Josh Mancuso

Resources:

• Josh Mancuso's Website
• Josh Mancuso on Instagram
• Josh Mancuso on Twitter

For more entertaining episodes and inspiring interviews, subscribe to "Meet Me in Tennessee" on your favorite podcast platform. Don’t miss the chance to stay updated with our latest content and join our community by sharing your stories using #MeetMeInTN.

About the Guest:

Chris Stipo is the Operations Manager at Tri Cities Airport, where he is responsible for airfield compliance, wildlife management, snow removal, and future development planning. With a Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management from Jacksonville University and a Master's in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Chris has a diverse background in the aviation industry, having previously worked in various roles in airports across San Antonio, Asheville, and Cincinnati before bringing his expertise to the Tri Cities region.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Season Three of Meet Me in Tennessee, where hosts Lara Potter and Jenna Lafever introduce Chris Stipo, the Operations Manager at Tri Cities Airport. Broadcasting from Maypop Studio in the vibrant city of Johnson City, TN, this episode takes a deep dive into the intricacies of airport management and the pivotal role regional airports play in community development and connectivity.

In this episode, Chris Stipo shares details about his journey through the aviation industry, highlighting his extensive experience in airport operations and his focus on maintaining airfield compliance. The conversation moves through discussions of future expansions and improvements at Tri Cities Airport, including efforts to increase local flight options, attract new airlines, and enhance overall passenger experience. Chris also reflects on the various wildlife management challenges and unique arrivals, such as Michael Jordan's private jet, that make working at a smaller airport both fascinating and complex.

Key Takeaways:

• Community Impact: The success of regional airports like Tri Cities significantly impacts local business growth and accessibility.
• Operational Duties: Chris Stipo elaborates on his vast responsibilities, from airfield compliance to wildlife management and future expansion planning.
• Convenience and Growth: Tri Cities Airport offers ease of access that larger airports can't match, emphasizing the importance of local support to enhance flight options and services.
• Future Prospects: Ongoing plans for airport expansion, including additional parking and the potential for new flight routes like Chicago, hinge on community engagement and demand.
• Local Pride: Chris highlights the importance of local eateries and businesses, such as Phil's Dream Pit and Pals, which contribute to the unique charm and appeal of the Tri Cities region.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The success of Tri Cities Airport is deeply linked to how well the community utilizes and supports it." — Chris Stipo
2. "In aviation, moving up often means moving across states; I've gained invaluable experience through various roles from San Antonio to Cincinnati." — Chris Stipo
3. "We are striving to bring new airlines and expand our services, banking heavily on community efforts and support." — Chris Stipo
4. "The ease of flying out of Tri Cities Airport is unmatched; from parking to boarding, it's designed to be stress-free for travelers." — Lara Potter
5. "Our close-knit team here ensures any issue, be it a passenger's misplace bag or runway wildlife, is promptly and effectively addressed." — Chris Stipo

Resources:

• Tri Cities Airport: Official Website
• Visit northeasttennessee.org
• Phil's Dream Pit: Authentic BBQ spot near Gray, highly recommended by Chris Stipo.
• Pals: Iconic fast-food chain in the Tri Cities region, a favorite among locals and visitors.
• Northeast State Aviation Technology: Offers maintenance programs beneficial to regional aviation growth.

Stay tuned for more insightful episodes of Meet Me in Tennessee, where we bring you closer to the heart of the Volunteer State, one story at a time. Don't forget to subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform and share your Tennessee stories using the hashtag #MeetMeInTNA.

About the Guest:

Dr. Rene Rodgers is the Head Curator for the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. With an extensive background in history, culminating in a Ph.D., Rene has a profound understanding and passion for the story of early commercial country music, particularly the 1927 Bristol Sessions, which hold a significant place in American music history. Her experience in museum education and curation is evident in the impactful exhibits and programs she leads at the museum.

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode of "Meet Me in Tennessee," host Allie Bynum has an insightful conversation with Dr. Rene Rodgers, unveiling the intricate tapestry of country music's origins as told through the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. The discussion delves into the 1927 Bristol Sessions, known as the "Big Bang" of country music, and the museum's role in preserving this rich history.

Rene Rodgers paints a vivid portrait of the technological advancements and cultural underpinnings that contributed to the success of the Bristol Sessions. She highlights the influence of Ralph Peer, the visionary talent scout, and the impact of artists like the Carter Family and Jimmie Rogers. Incorporating engaging exhibits and personal stories, the museum becomes a beacon of Appalachian heritage, showcasing how past traditions resonate with contemporary audiences.

Key Takeaways:

• The Birthplace of Country Music Museum celebrates its 10th anniversary as a Smithsonian-affiliated institution, offering rich educational resources and programming.
• The 1927 Bristol Sessions symbolize a monumental moment in country music, capturing high-quality recordings of iconic artists and transforming the industry.
• Ralph Peer played a pivotal role in advancing country music, with his innovative approaches to recording, copyrighting, and music publishing still influential today.
• Exhibits at the museum, such as "I've Endured: Women in Old Time Music," bridge past and present by highlighting the enduring contributions of female musicians.
• Community engagement through events, outreach, and the Radio Bristol station, integrally connects the museum to the region’s cultural fabric.

Notable Quotes:

• "It's not just one moment in time that just had this impact for a few years around 1927 and then disappeared into the bowels of history."
• "Music is so tied to emotion and memory, and we're…fortunate to have this museum that is about music and filled with music."
• "We wanted to…tell the story of women in this music…and how they've both carried on those traditions from the past and are innovating it."
• "The music industry works today…music publishing company [Peer Music] started in 1926 still exists today."
• "So much history with music in our area…how hillbilly music's evolved…how the technology with music has evolved in America."

Resources:

• Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association: northeasttennessee.org
• Birthplace of Country Music Museum: birthplaceofcountrymusic.org

Tune in to the full episode for a deep dive into the fascinating world of country music's roots and discover how the Birthplace of Country Music Museum is preserving this precious cultural heritage. With each story shared and exhibit crafted, the legacy of country music continues to inspire and captivate audiences. Keep an eye out for more profound conversations on "Meet Me in Tennessee."

About the Guest:

Emily Thompson brings a festive spirit to her vital role as the Director of Funfest and Special Events with Visit Kingsport. Born and raised in Kingsport, Tennessee, Emily has a deep-seated love for the community event that she has been part of since her childhood. With her profound commitment and enthusiasm, she orchestrates the intricate details of organizing the celebrated festival, ensuring it remains a beacon of community unity and joy. Her contributions have been vital in sustaining the festival's over 40 years of legacy in Northeast Tennessee.

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode of "Meet Me in Tennessee," host Allie Bynum sits down with Emily Thompson to explore the vibrant heart of Northeast Tennessee's community through the lens of Funfest, a celebrated local festival. The show delves into the festival's rich history, its goal to bring people together, and the thrilling events that take place over the course of nine lively days.

The conversation kicks off with Emily sharing her lifelong connection to Funfest, the challenges and joys of planning a festival of this magnitude, and some of the festival's staple events, including the hot air balloon glow and the 8K race. The discussion then transitions to the Sunset Concert Series lineup, detailing the blend of local and widely renowned performers set to grace Funfest stages this year. All throughout, the importance of community involvement and the incredible volunteer support that brings Funfest to life are highlighted as essential components of the event's success.

Key Takeaways:

• Funfest, now in its 44th year, is anchored in the theme of community unity and features a vast array of activities over nine days.
• The festival is a combination of tourist attractions, family reunions, local business involvement, and community events for all ages, including iconic hot air balloon displays.
• Emily Thompson emphasizes the significance of volunteer involvement and how the entire community comes together to support Funfest.
• The 2023 Sunset Concert Series lineup boasts a diverse range of performers, including Crowder, Tyler Hubbard, Philip Phillips, and the Goo Goo Dolls.
• Funfest's significance goes beyond the events themselves—it serves as a symbol of shared experiences, bringing joy and creating lifelong memories for the Northeast Tennessee community.

Notable Quotes:

• "It means you don't take vacations in the summer." – Emily Thompson jokingly describes her commitment to Funfest.
• "It truly is about that unity piece and really just saying, everybody come together." – Emily on the vision behind Funfest.
• "I waited my whole life thinking one day I want to be over Funfest, and here we are." – Emily expressing her passion for her role.
• "I love when the weather lets them all get off the ground because it's so neat to watch and it's a staple." - Emily on the magic of hot air balloons during Funfest.
• "And there's that split second after it ends when the fireworks drop that it's like, whoa. You see the chaos, all the trash, and literally just moments later, it's like a clean slate." – Emily on the remarkable cleanup efforts by volunteers post-festival.

Resources:

• Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association website: northeasttennessee.org
• Visit Kingsport website: visitkingsport.com
• Funfest website for event information and tickets: funfest.net

To enjoy the full palette of stories and insights shared by Emily Thompson, tune in to this episode and be reminded of the simple yet profound joy community events like Funfest bring to our lives. Stay connected for more episodes of "Meet Me in Tennessee" that paint a vivid picture of the culture, events, and people that make Northeast Tennessee truly unique.

About the Guest:

Courtney Bean serves as the Main Street Director for Main Street Elizabethton, working under the auspices of the City of Elizabethton, Tennessee. With a commitment to downtown revitalization and community engagement, Courtney has been at the forefront of steering the city towards a unified vision for development. Main Street Elizabethton is part of the national Main Street program, which focuses on enhancing the quality and economic potential of small-town Main Streets. Her role involves liaising with the city council, local businesses, and community members to foster growth, arrange events, and promote the arts and culture within Elizabethton's charming downtown area.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to this engaging episode of “Meet Me in Tennessee,” where host Allie Bynum explores the vibrant energy and community-driven initiatives of Downtown Elizabethton with guest Courtney Bean. As a thriving example of the Main Street program's success, Elizabethton stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in small-town revitalization. Join us as we delve into the ongoing projects and historical instigations that make Elizabethton a unique blend of Appalachian heritage and progressive urban development.

In this conversation, Courtney Bean unfolds the narrative of Main Street Elizabethton's journey from inception to its current successes. The discussion revolves around the crucial role Main Street programs play in fostering the economy and identity of rural areas, such as Northeast Tennessee. Insights into the synergistic relationship between Main Street Elizabethton and city authorities reveal how strategic partnerships can yield growth and stability within local businesses and the wider community. Furthermore, Courtney illuminates the exciting ventures underway in Elizabethton, including the unveiling of a new professional mural and the anticipation of the summer and fall festivals that stitch together the fabric of the downtown experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Main Street Elizabethton is a key player in the development and unification of downtown Elizabethton’s growth and mission, underpinning the community's revitalization efforts.
• The Main Street program has established a unique partnership with city council members, resulting in projects that reflect the community's aspirations and heritage.
• Arts and culture are celebrated and integrated into the city through professional murals and community art projects, highlighting Appalachian native species and local history.
• Elizabethton's historical landmarks, like the Covered Bridge and Sycamore Shoals, alongside the veterans' memorials, provide a rich tapestry of narratives that shape the city's identity.
• Seasonal events, such as the First Fridays and the Firefly 5K, form the cornerstone of the community's vibrant social calendar, drawing in both locals and tourists alike.

Notable Quotes:

• "Main streets are all about working with the community and revitalizing your downtown." – Courtney Bean
• "Old soul new stories. It's perfect." – Courtney Bean, discussing the tagline of downtown Elizabethton that reflects its character and future.
• "This mural will go up in May, and that will also be in our downtown district. So look, when you come downtown." – Courtney Bean, announcing a new community mural that captures Elizabethton's history.

Resources:

• Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association: northeasttennessee.org
• Main Street Elizabethton: mainstreetelizabethton.com
• Downtown Elizabethton Social Media Handles: Facebook and Instagram as "Downtown Elizabethton"

Dive into the full discussion to transport yourself to the charming streets of Elizabethton and uncover the power of community spirit in shaping a city's destiny. Don't miss out on the wisdom Courtney Bean shares and stay tuned for more fascinating episodes that showcase the splendor of Tennessee.