What happens when a former bridal boutique owner, photographer, and creative entrepreneur finds her calling in midair?

In this inspiring episode of Real Talk Savannah, we sit down with Nicki O’Connell, the passionate founder of Soar Bungee Fitness—Savannah’s first gym dedicated to bungee-based group workouts.

Launching in late summer 2025, Soar Gym blends aerial bungee fitness, yoga, barre, spin, and Pilates to offer a totally fresh approach to movement and motivation.

Nicki opens up about:
✅ Her journey from creative business owner to fitness entrepreneur
✅ How she discovered bungee fitness and became certified
✅ The behind-the-scenes hustle: city permits, SBA loans, and funding hurdles
✅ Building a brand that empowers confidence, community, and play

Whether you’re a local, a fitness lover, or a dreamer with a big idea—this episode will lift you higher.

📲 Follow Nicki on Instagram: @soar_bungeefitness
🌐 Learn more at: https://soarbungeefitness.com/
🎧 Listen now and get inspired to leap into your next big move.

Welcome back to Real Talk Savannah! In this episode, we’re joined by Jarad Brown, a Savannah-born mortgage lender with New American Funding, who shares expert insights into today’s housing market. From navigating 2024’s challenging real estate climate to tapping into investment opportunities and down payment assistance programs, this episode is packed with knowledge for buyers, investors, and anyone curious about building equity in Savannah. 💰🏡

Jarad and host Michelle break down:

• How to qualify for investment loans—even with no income

• Creative lending solutions for first-time homebuyers

• Why working with a local lender gives you a competitive edge

• The real story behind Savannah’s low inventory and rising demand

• And the best advice for self-employed, service industry, and young buyers

📲 Whether you’re buying your first home, planning to invest, or just curious about what’s happening in the Savannah market, this conversation is your roadmap.

👉 Contact Jarad Brown at www.newamericanfunding.com

🔔 Subscribe to stay up to date with Savannah’s real estate scene & more local interviews.

In this episode of Real Talk Savannah, we sit down with Melissa Monge, co-owner of Sea Love Savannah, a new candle-making bar that just opened its first storefront on Broughton Street. Melissa shares her entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges and rewards of starting a business in a bustling, competitive retail space in downtown Savannah.

Melissa talks about the process of finding the perfect location, navigating Savannah’s permitting and licensing system, and the ups and downs of opening a business on Broughton Street. She also discusses the unique concept behind Sea Love Savannah, which combines candle-making with an immersive, experiential environment. Whether you’re looking to open your own business or simply curious about the challenges involved, Melissa’s story will inspire and educate you.

Sea Love Savannah offers a one-of-a-kind experience where customers can blend their own candles, diffusers, and even bring their friends for corporate events or private parties. Along with its sensory experiences, Melissa shares how they’ve built a community through pop-up events and collaborations with other local businesses.

Guest:Melissa Monge, Co-owner of Sea Love Savannah
Learn more at Sealove.comInstagram: @SeaLoveSavannah

In this week's episode of Real Talk Savannah, host Michelle sits down with Savannah City Alderman Nick Palumbo to discuss the ambitious Tide to Town Project. This initiative aims to develop a protected network of walking and bicycling trails throughout Savannah, connecting neighborhoods from downtown to the city's marshes and waterways. Alderman Palumbo shares insights into the project's vision, its potential impact on public health and safety, and the collaborative efforts driving its progress. He also highlights the importance of community engagement and the long-term benefits of creating an accessible urban trail system. For more detailed information, including maps and updates, visit the Tide to Town website.

Alderman Nick Palumbo's Social Media:

• Facebook: Nick For Savannah
• X (Twitter): @nickforsavannah
• Instagram: @nickforsavannah

Tide to Town Project:

The Tide to Town Urban Trail System is a visionary project aiming to create nearly 30 miles of protected walking and bicycling trails throughout Savannah. The network will connect all neighborhoods, providing safe, stress-free routes for residents of all ages. The initiative addresses public safety concerns and promotes healthier lifestyles by offering accessible pathways for walking, jogging, skating, or bicycling. To explore the project's conceptual map and learn more about its goals and progress, visit the official website.

tidetotown.org

In this special episode of Real Talk Savannah, host Michelle Peth dives into the vibrant and exciting atmosphere of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Savannah. With one of the largest St. Patrick's Day parades in the country, Michelle shares insider tips on how to navigate the busy city, including where to go, what to expect, and how to avoid the chaos. From the packed streets of River Street to the hidden gems off the beaten path, this episode covers everything you need to know to make the most of your St. Patrick's Day experience in Savannah.

Key Highlights:

• The history of St. Patrick's Day in Savannah and how it became such a major event
• Tips for locals and visitors on dealing with crowds, parking, and getting around during the celebrations
• Where to find local food, drinks, and fun spots to enjoy the festivities
• Recommended off-the-beaten-path spots for a more relaxed experience
• Fun traditions like the dying of the fountains in Forsyth Park
• Special shoutout to local businesses and unique spots to enjoy during the celebrations

Additional Recommendations:

• Plan ahead for parking and transportation during the parade
• Don’t forget to hydrate! CamelBaks are a great idea for those planning to spend the whole day at the festivities
• Support local businesses by buying from shops that might not have as long of a line

Enjoy the spirit of Savannah this March and make sure to wear your green!

In the second part of the episode, Dana continues to explain how different factors such as debt-to-income ratios, assets, and income stability influence loan approval. Michelle and Dana discuss how getting creative with your finances, like using 401(k) loans or co-signers, can help buyers secure financing. They also touch on how to navigate the process when buying specialized properties, like condos, and why working with a local lender in Savannah is crucial. Finally, Dana shares her advice for first-time homebuyers and those looking to make investments in real estate in the current market.

Key Highlights:

• Understanding debt-to-income ratios and how they affect loan approval
• Creative ways to manage assets and debts to qualify for a loan
• How co-signers and financial assistance programs can help buyers
• Why working with a local lender in Savannah is essential
• Advice for first-time homebuyers and real estate investors

Resources Mentioned:

• The role of local lenders in navigating Savannah’s unique real estate challenges
• Options for working with 401(k) funds or gifts for down payments
• Insights into purchasing investment properties in Savannah

If you would like to connect with Dana please reach out to Michelle directly - [email protected]

In this first part of the episode, Michelle Peth sits down with local lender Dana to discuss the key aspects of lending in Savannah. From navigating the complexities of cash flow and job stability to understanding credit and down payments, Dana breaks down what potential homeowners need to know about securing a loan. They dive into what lenders look for, especially when working with individuals from the service industry or those with non-traditional income sources. Michelle and Dana also discuss the importance of establishing good financial habits and the programs available to help people with lower credit scores or unique financial backgrounds.

Key Highlights:

• What lenders look for when assessing loan applications
• The importance of job stability, income, and credit
• How service industry workers can navigate the lending process
• Tips on preparing for a home loan, including managing cash and credit
• The surprising availability of programs for lower credit scores

Resources Mentioned:

• The importance of credit repair and options for service industry workers
• Upcoming discussion on asset management and down payments in part 2

If you would like to get in touch with Dana please reach out to Michelle Directly - [email protected]

Welcome to the first episode ofReal Talk Savannah! In this debut episode, host Michelle Peth introduces herself and shares her journey as a longtime Savannah resident, business owner, and real estate expert. She discusses her deep connection to the city and her passion for helping newcomers and locals alike better understand the many layers of Savannah—from its real estate market to its vibrant community.

Michelle reflects on her diverse experiences in Savannah, including bartending, selling health insurance, and owning The Beettan company. She reveals why she's passionate about helping people navigate the quirks of this historical city and offers a personal look into her life, including how Savannah has shaped her business, career, and motherhood journey.

Michelle also sets the stage for future episodes, where she’ll dive into the heart of Savannah's real estate scene with local experts, starting with an exciting conversation about lending. In the next episode, you'll hear from a local lender who explains the importance of working with someone familiar with Savannah's unique market and the local resources available for buyers.

Stay tuned for more insightful conversations that will connect the dots between Savannah’s real estate world and the community.

Key Takeaways:

• Get to know Michelle’s background and why she’s so passionate about Savannah.
• Understand why Savannah’s real estate market is unique and the importance of local connections.
• Learn about the mission ofReal Talk Savannah—to help newcomers and locals navigate the city, make informed decisions, and appreciate the many layers of Savannah.
• Look forward to upcoming episodes with local experts, including discussions about the lending process, local real estate trends, and more.

Resources Mentioned:

• Local lending insights in the upcoming episode.
• A look into Savannah’s rich history, quirks, and real estate.