On this episode of Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry sit down with Jake Kouns, the founder of Dead Meat Society, to unpack a powerful story rooted in purpose, craftsmanship, and respect for where our food comes from.

Jake shares the why behind Dead Meat Society — a mission-driven brand built on honoring the animal, supporting ethical sourcing, and educating people on the true value of meat and food culture. This conversation goes far beyond business, diving into identity, responsibility, sustainability, and what it means to build something that actually stands for something.

🔥 In this episode:

• The origin story and mission behind Dead Meat Society

• Why respecting the animal and the process matters

• Building a brand with values in a noisy marketplace

• Food culture, community, and intentional living

• Lessons learned along the entrepreneurial journey

• A fun Mac or Beans debate

• And Derry wraps it up with a thoughtful Friday Feel Good

If you care about food, culture, entrepreneurship, or doing meaningful work the right way, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Learn more at deadmeatsociety.com and follow Jake's journey through Dead Meat Society.

In this episode of Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry welcome the legendary Rodney Scott, James Beard Award-winning pitmaster and the force behind Rodney Scott's BBQ.

Known for perfecting the art of whole hog barbecue, Rodney shares his incredible story — from growing up in his family's BBQ business to becoming one of the most recognized names in the culinary world.

Together they dive into:

🔥 Rodney's journey from small-town roots to national recognition

🍖 The craft and discipline of whole hog BBQ

💡 Lessons in perseverance, leadership, and staying true to your vision

🎉 A laugh-filled Mac or Beans segment

✨ And Derry's Friday Feel Good to close things out on a high note

This episode is equal parts flavorful and inspiring, reminding us that with passion and dedication, you can turn smoke and fire into a lasting legacy.

The guys are back and kicking off the year the right way on this episode of Single Tree Nation. Charlie and Derry take time to reflect on the lessons learned from the past year and look ahead to what's next — personally, professionally, and for the show.

This conversation is all about momentum, intention, and doing the work. From setting realistic goals and staying consistent, to navigating life changes and keeping perspective, this episode sets the tone for the year ahead. The guys keep it real, mix in plenty of laughs, and remind us that growth doesn't come from perfection — it comes from showing up.

🔥 In this episode:

• Resetting priorities and goals for the new year

• The importance of consistency over hype

• Personal growth, discipline, and accountability

• What's ahead for Single Tree Nation

• A fun and thoughtful Mac or Beans debate

• And Derry closes it out with a powerful Friday Feel Good

If you're looking for motivation, clarity, and a grounded way to start the year strong, this episode is for you. Hit play and let's build momentum together.

In this impactful episode of Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry sit down with Billy Truesdale and James Little from Journey Home Murfreesboro, an organization dedicated to serving individuals experiencing homelessness in Middle Tennessee.

Billy and James share the heart behind Journey Home, how the organization got started, and what it truly means to walk alongside people in need with dignity, compassion, and consistency. The conversation dives into the realities of homelessness, misconceptions around outreach, and how community involvement can create lasting change.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact local nonprofits can have when passion meets purpose. If you care about community, service, and meaningful action, this is one you don't want to miss.

🎧 Listen in to hear:

• The mission and origin of Journey Home Murfreesboro

• Billy Truesdale and James Little's personal connection to the work

• How Journey Home serves the unhoused with dignity and respect

• The role the local community plays in sustainable impact

• Why compassion and consistency matter more than quick fixes

📍 Learn more about Journey Home and how you can support or get involved in your local community.

In this powerful episode of Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry sit down with Nit Chanthanboun, owner of Sabadee Cafe, to hear an inspiring story rooted in family, resilience, and culture.

Nit shares his journey from his family's refugee background to becoming a restaurant owner, and how food became a bridge between generations, traditions, and the Murfreesboro community. The conversation dives into the sacrifices made by immigrant families, the responsibility of carrying cultural heritage forward, and what it truly takes to build a business from the ground up.

This episode goes beyond food — it's about identity, perseverance, entrepreneurship, and honoring where you come from while building what's next. Nit's humility, work ethic, and passion shine through in a conversation that perfectly captures what Single Tree Nation is all about.

If you love stories about food, culture, small business ownership, and the people behind the plates — this is one you don't want to miss.

🎧 Listen now and be sure to check out Sabadee Cafe for authentic Lao cuisine and a true community experience.

On this episode of Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry sit down with Jason Flores, the owner and driving force behind Mr. J's Original. Jason shares the real story behind the brand — where it started, how it's grown, and what it takes to build something meaningful in the food business while staying true to your roots.

This conversation dives into:

🔥 The origin story of Mr. J's Original and how Jason got his start

🍽️ The challenges and lessons that come with running a food-based business

💡 Entrepreneurship, consistency, and building something that lasts

😂 Plenty of laughs and authentic conversation

🧀 The always-entertaining Mac or Beans segment

✨ And Derry's Friday Feel Good to send you into the weekend on a high note

This episode is all about hard work, passion, and local business done the right way. Whether you're a foodie, an entrepreneur, or just love hearing how great ideas come to life, this is a must-listen episode of Single Tree Nation.

On this episode of Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry sit down with Jason Berkowitz — a seasoned hospitality veteran, founder & CEO of Arrow Up Training, and a leader who's transforming how restaurants build culture, train teams, and grow their businesses.

Jason has worked in every corner of the restaurant world — from opening over 50 restaurants to leading operations for major brands like Umami Burger, Tocaya Organica, and The Madera Group. Today, through Arrow Up Training, he's helping operators and teams across the country create stronger, more engaged, and more productive workplace cultures.

In this conversation, Jason shares:

🔥 How effective training can shape culture, retention, and success in hospitality

💡 Why storytelling and empathy matter in leadership and team development

🚀 Tips for restaurant operators and business owners to strengthen their workforce

😂 A lively Mac or Beans segment

✨ And Derry's Friday Feel Good to close out the episode

Whether you're in hospitality, leadership, or just love hearing inspiring business journeys, this episode is packed with actionable insights and authentic stories.

📲 Connect with Jason Berkowitz:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasondberkowitz/

Website: https://arrowuptraining.com/

Instagram: @arrow_up_training (Arrow Up Training)

On this episode of Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry sit down with the one and only James Buckingham, owner of Big Buck's BBQ — a Middle Tennessee staple known for its unforgettable flavors, passion for the craft, and deep community roots.

Buck shares the full journey behind building Big Buck's BBQ:

🔥 How it all started and the challenges that almost stopped it

🍖 The philosophy behind great BBQ and why every plate matters

💼 What it takes to run and grow a food operation in today's world

🏡 The importance of family, legacy, and serving the local community

😂 Plenty of laughs, real talk, and signature STN moments along the way And of course…

🎲 A can't-miss Mac or Beans segment

✨ A strong Friday Feel Good from Derry to wrap things up

This episode is full of heart, hustle, and heat — everything you love about Single Tree Nation.

Whether you're a BBQ lover, entrepreneur, or supporter of local small business, this conversation will leave you inspired and hungry for more.

Be sure to follow Big Buck's BBQ on social media and check out their latest pop-ups and events!

It's the Thanksgiving Special of Single Tree Nation! 🦃🍂

Charlie and Derry sit down for a laid-back, laugh-filled, and heartfelt holiday episode packed with everything we love about this time of year — food, family, football, and gratitude.

The guys dive into:

🏈 The massive college football matchups happening this week

📊 Their thoughts on the College Football Playoff and who deserves to be in

🦃 Classic Thanksgiving traditions, food takes, and stories

🙏 What gratitude looks like in their lives this season

😂 Plenty of jokes, random tangents, and that signature Single Tree Nation energy

🎲 A festive Mac or Beans debate

✨ And a Thanksgiving-themed Friday Feel Good from Derry to take you into the holiday weekend

Whether you're prepping the turkey, driving to see family, or just vibing on the couch, this episode is full of fun, perspective, and the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Single Tree Nation family! 🍁

This week on Single Tree Nation, Charlie and Derry welcome the amazingly talented Caitlynne Curtis — singer, songwriter, viral sensation, and one of the most authentic voices in music today.

Caitlynne opens up about her entire journey:

🎤 Growing up with a dream of making it big

🌟 Her breakthrough moment and how she went viral

💔 The struggles, setbacks, and personal battles that shaped her music

💡 The purpose behind her songwriting and how she's found healing through creating

🔥 Behind-the-scenes stories from the road, the studio, and life as an independent artist

And of course…

🎲 An absolutely hilarious Mac or Beans segment

✨ A strong Friday Feel Good from Derry to close out the episode

Caitlynne's story is real, emotional, funny, and incredibly inspiring. Whether you're a fan of her music, an aspiring creator, or just love a powerful comeback story — this episode hits all the marks.

Be sure to follow @caitlynnecurtismusic on social media and stream her latest releases everywhere you listen to music!