Steven Smithing of Mere Bulles | Brentwood Up Podcast

On this episode of the Brentwood Up Podcast, we sit down with Steven Smithing, owner of Mere Bulles in Brentwood and Green Hills Grille in Nashville.

Steven has spent years in the restaurant business, and Mere Bulles has become a true staple of the Brentwood community. We talk about what it takes to operate a restaurant with that kind of history and reputation—and why continuing to evolve is so important.

Steven shares what’s happening at Mere Bulles right now, including their happy hour, private dining and events, and how the team is preparing for the busy holiday season. If you’re already thinking about company parties, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations, Steven gives us a look at what Mere Bulles can offer.

We also get into the less glamorous side of restaurant ownership: the challenges of operating a large, full-service restaurant, managing changing customer expectations, and staying relevant while remaining true to what made Mere Bulles successful in the first place.

Most importantly, we talk about community. Steven shares why being part of Brentwood matters to him, why relationships are so important in business, and what it means to operate a restaurant that has become part of so many people’s celebrations and memories.

And on a personal note, this conversation was a fun one for me. Steven is my former boss, so it was great getting to sit down on the other side of the table and talk about the restaurant business, Brentwood, and everything he’s built.

In this episode:

• What’s happening at Mere Bulles
• Happy hour and dining at the restaurant
• Private events and holiday parties
• Preparing for the upcoming holiday season
• The challenges of operating a full-service restaurant
• Staying relevant in an ever-changing restaurant industry
• Why community and relationships matter
• Steven’s perspective on doing business in Brentwood

Whether you’re a longtime Mere Bulles regular, a Brentwood business owner, or simply interested in the people behind some of our community’s most recognizable businesses, this is a great conversation with one of Brentwood’s longtime restaurant operators.

Building Trust Through Service with Ani and Glenn of Local Handyman

On this episode of Brentwood Up, Brandon and Kathy sit down with Ani and Glenn from Local Handyman, a locally owned franchise providing handyman services for homeowners and businesses throughout Middle Tennessee.

Ani and Glenn share the story behind Local Handyman, the wide range of services their team provides, and just as importantly, the types of projects they choose not to take on. They explain how setting clear expectations, communicating honestly, and staying focused on the work they do best allows them to provide a better experience for every customer.

The conversation also explores the mission behind the business. For Ani and Glenn, Local Handyman is about much more than completing a repair or checking a project off a list. Their approach is rooted in hospitality, trust, and taking exceptional care of people from the first phone call through the completion of the job.

They also discuss the importance of building a dependable team, serving both residential and commercial clients, and creating a local business that customers can feel comfortable inviting into their homes and workplaces.

Whether you are a homeowner with a growing project list, a business owner looking for a reliable maintenance partner, or an entrepreneur interested in building a service-based company around strong values, this episode offers an inside look at how Local Handyman is serving the Middle Tennessee community.

Hospitality, Leadership, and the Restaurant Business with Jorge Burgoa

On this episode of Brentwood Up, Brandon and Kathy sit down with Jorge Burgoa, General Manager of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Brentwood.

Jorge shares an inside look at what it takes to successfully operate a busy restaurant, from leading a team and maintaining consistency to navigating the daily challenges that come with the hospitality industry. They discuss Jorge’s approach to creating a welcoming environment, anticipating guests’ needs, and delivering the kind of personal service that turns a first-time visitor into a regular.

The conversation also explores the importance of strong leadership, developing employees, building relationships within the community, and creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through the door.

Whether you are a restaurant professional, a local business leader, or simply someone who enjoys great food and genuine hospitality, this episode offers an engaging look behind the scenes at one of Brentwood’s most popular restaurants.

Visit Firebirds Wood Fired Grill700 Old Hickory BoulevardBrentwood, Tennessee 37027

On this episode of Brentwood Up, we sit down with Manny, founder of Manny Movers, a locally owned moving company serving Brentwood, Franklin, Nashville, and communities across Tennessee. What started as a vision to provide dependable, stress-free moving services has grown into a business built on trust, hard work, and treating every customer like family. Manny Movers offers residential and commercial moving, packing and unpacking services, storage solutions, junk removal, and long-distance relocations, all with a focus on communication and customer care.

Manny shares his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building a service business from the ground up, and what it takes to stand out in an industry where reputation is everything. We discuss the importance of customer experience, lessons learned through growth, and why serving the Brentwood community has been such a rewarding part of his business.

Whether you're planning a move, running a small business, or simply enjoy hearing stories from local entrepreneurs making an impact, this conversation offers valuable insights into leadership, perseverance, and the power of great service.

In this episode:
• The story behind Manny Movers
• Building a business through referrals and reputation
• The realities of the moving industry
• Customer service lessons that apply to any business
• Growth, challenges, and entrepreneurship
• Why community matters in Brentwood and Middle Tennessee
• Advice for anyone looking to start their own business

Learn more about Manny Movers and their services throughout Tennessee at their website.

Guest: Bill Wehby
Title: Mortgage Banker
Company: First Trust Home Loans

In this episode of the Brentwood Up Podcast, I sit down with Bill Wehby, a mortgage banker with First Trust Home Loans, to unpack one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make: buying a home.

We go beyond surface-level advice and dig into how the mortgage process actually works, why homeownership still plays a critical role in long-term financial stability, and how buyers can make smarter decisions in a market that often feels confusing or intimidating.

🏡 What we cover:💡 Why this episode matters:

• Why buying a home matters — and how to think long-term instead of emotionally

• A breakdown of different mortgage loan types, including conventional, FHA, VA, and other options

• How interest rates, terms, and affordability really interact (without the hype)

• Common mistakes buyers make before they even apply for a loan

• What mortgage bankers look for — and what they wish buyers understood sooner

• Why lending is ultimately a relationship-driven business, not just a numbers game

• Bill’s perspective on Brentwood — why he believes in the community, its growth, and its future

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, thinking about upgrading or downsizing, or simply trying to understand the mortgage world better, this conversation offers clear, practical insight without the fluff. Bill brings real-world experience to the table and explains the process in a way that’s accessible, honest, and grounded.

This episode isn’t about chasing rates or timing the market — it’s about understanding how to make a smart home-buying decision when the time is right for you, especially in a place like Brentwood.

🎧 Listen now to learn how to approach homeownership with clarity, confidence, and a long-term mindset.

In this episode, I sit down with Steve Catalano, franchisee of over 50 Dunkin’ Donuts locations in Middle Tennessee, and Carla Cutter, Director of Operations, to talk about what it really takes to run one of the most recognizable brands in the country at the local level. From daily operations and team management, community engagement, and keeping things consistent across dozens of stores, Steve and Carla share what life looks like behind the counter of everyone’s favorite coffee and donut shop.

We’re also joined by Merideth Luckett, Executive Director of the Nashville Children’s Alliance (NCA), to highlight an exciting partnership between Dunkin’ and NCA. It’s simple: when you donate to NCA, Dunkin’ will give you free donuts. This initiative combines a sweet treat with a meaningful cause—supporting children and families in need throughout Nashville.

Tune in to hear stories from the world of franchising, what makes Dunkin’ so beloved in Middle Tennessee, and how local businesses can make a real difference when they team up with community organizations.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Christine Smith, Owner and Optometrist at Nu Vue Eyecare in Brentwood, TN. Dr. Smith shares her inspiring journey of building a practice and raising a family right here in the heart of Brentwood.

We dive into:
👁️ What makes Nu Vue Eyecare different
🏡 Why she and her husband chose Brentwood to live, work, and raise their children
👩‍⚕️ Who she serves and the core values that guide her patient care
🧠 How she balances the many hats she wears — as a doctor, wife, and mom

This is an authentic look at life and business from a true Brentwoodian. Whether you're a parent, entrepreneur, or just love hearing local stories, you won't want to miss this conversation.

Learn more about Nu Vue Eyecare at: nuvueeyecare.com

This episode was recorded live at our weekly Bulles & Business networking mixer at the historic Mere Bulles restaurant—and what a night it was! With over 40 local professionals in attendance, the energy was high, the conversations were flowing, and the connections were real.

I had the chance to step aside and sit down with four incredible guests to learn more about who they are and what they do:

• Elizabeth Story, real estate broker and owner of Story Estates, shares what drives her passion for helping clients find their perfect home.

• Dan Cranney, Senior VP of Growth at Third Home, gives us an inside look at the fascinating world of luxury vacation home trading—you won’t want to miss this one.

• Julie Lunan talks about her inspiring mission to minister to the unhoused and the powerful documentary she’s creating to tell their stories.

• And finally, Dr. Stacy Jagger, founder of Music City Family Therapy, shares expert insight on raising healthy kids and families right here in our Brentwood community.

Join us every Thursday from 5–7 p.m. for Bulles & Business—you’ll make great connections, enjoy delicious hors d'oeuvres, and who knows... you might just end up on the podcast!

Let’s get into it.

On today’s episode, we’re joined by Miley Barcus, the Sales Manager for Crye-Leike Realtors, located right in the heart of Brentwood! Miley shares what it really takes to succeed in real estate and offers some insight into the current housing market in Williamson County.

We talk about her longstanding love for the Brentwood community, why local knowledge makes all the difference in real estate, and—yes—they’re hiring!

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or even starting a career in real estate, Miley brings the energy, experience, and expertise you need.

👉 Follow Miley on Instagram: @mileybarcus_realestate
📬 Send her a message and let her know you heard her on Brentwood Up!

On today’s episode, we’re coming to you live from our weekly networking series Bulles & Business, recorded at the beautiful Mere Bulles in Brentwood, TN!

This week, we sat down with seven inspiring local business owners to hear their stories, insights, and what makes doing business in Brentwood so special. It’s an energetic mix of conversation, community, and connection.

Featured Guests:

• Stephanie Richardson – Owner, Unlocking Your Potential

• Elizabeth Marsch – Owner, Marsch Studios (Need a portrait? She’s incredible.)

• John Colton – Realtor, Pilkerton Realty

• Sue Richards – Known around town as “Sue-Curity”

• Ryan Reed – Owner, ICU Security

• Rebecca Jackson – Agent, HealthMarkets

• Christian McClintock – Entrepreneur (Turns the tables and interviews Brandon!)

Whether you're a local business owner or just love hearing from passionate people making an impact in our community, this episode is for you.

📍 Recorded live at Mere Bulles – where Brentwood networks and grows.