UNRESERVED with TJ Callaway

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ Callaway sits down in Charleston with Trey McMillan, founder of Lowcountry Oysters, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, the working waterfront, and what it takes to build a business from the ground up. Trey shares how growing up in Mount Pleasant’s Old Village and spending his childhood in the creeks and marshes eventually led to nearly 15 years as a professional fisherman—and, ultimately, an entirely new career farming oysters. 

Trey recounts walking away from professional fishing at 30, leveraging his house to fund a new venture, and entering the oyster business with little formal knowledge of aquaculture. What began as an idea sparked by seeing an oyster farm on the Chesapeake Bay became Lowcountry Oysters, a business built around premium raw-bar oysters, demanding production schedules, and an appreciation for the unique coastal environment that makes the product possible. Along the way, Trey and TJ dig into the realities of oyster farming—from permitting and harvesting to refrigeration, traceability, sustainability, and the surprising amount of manual labor behind getting food from the water to the table. 

The conversation also gets candid about the side of entrepreneurship that rarely makes it onto social media. Trey recalls sleeping on a cot at the farm because he couldn't afford the gas to drive home, worrying whether his credit card would clear at an early trade show, and learning that success doesn't eliminate problems—it simply changes their scale. Trey and TJ reflect on risk, persistence, family sacrifice, failure, and why the polished version of entrepreneurship often leaves out the most important part of the story: the years of uncertainty and hard work required to build something that lasts. 

Filled with humor, hard-earned perspective, and a deep connection to the Lowcountry, this episode is a conversation about betting on yourself, staying transparent about the journey, and building a business without losing sight of the people, communities, and natural resources that make it possible.

-Growing Up in Mount Pleasant’s Old Village (00:00:50)

-From Professional Fishing to Starting Over at 30 (00:02:52)

-Betting the House and Becoming an Entrepreneur (00:05:16)

-How an Oyster Farm on the Chesapeake Sparked an Idea (00:07:23)

-Family, Sacrifice, and Life with an Entrepreneur (00:09:26)

-Raising Kids Around the Oyster Farm (00:10:46)

-What Makes a Great Oyster (00:13:16)

-Permits, Regulations, and the Business of Oyster Farming (00:15:31)

-Finding the Raw Bar Market and Scaling Production (00:17:53)

-How Oysters Are Grown, Harvested, and Shipped (00:19:19)

-Farm-to-Table Traceability and Knowing Where Your Food Comes From (00:22:00)

-Why You Have to Learn Entrepreneurship by Doing It (00:25:39)

-The Truth About Eating Oysters in Months Without an “R” (00:26:26)

-Conservation, Regulation, and Protecting Coastal Ecosystems (00:29:00)

-The Struggles Behind Building a Successful Business (00:33:39)

-Sleeping at the Farm and Surviving the Early Years (00:37:11)

-Social Media, Influencers, and the Value of Showing the Struggle (00:41:11)

-Why Strangers Sometimes Become Your Biggest Supporters (00:44:48)

-ShrimpGate, Local Seafood, and the Importance of Transparency (00:47:16)

-The Future of Oyster Farming in Georgia and the Southeast (00:49:35)

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ Callaway shares a conversation with Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Gunner Stockton about football, leadership, and life between the lines. Joined by Hammy Culpepper from Bulldog Illustrated and the Hammy Show, the discussion explores Gunner’s journey from Tiger, Georgia, to Athens, the lessons learned from his father and Coach Kirby Smart, and the mindset that keeps him grounded amid the spotlight of SEC football.

Gunner reflects on his roots in small-town Georgia, the transition from high school standout to leading one of college football’s most storied programs, and the importance of staying humble, faithful, and focused through it all. He talks about learning from mentors like Stetson Bennett, building chemistry with teammates, and handling pressure moments from the SEC Championship to the roar of Neyland Stadium.

Filled with insight, humor, and authenticity, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what drives one of Georgia’s rising stars on and off the field.

Follow Gunner on Instagram

TJ Callaway⁠ is the Founder and CEO of ⁠Onward Reserve⁠, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.  

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ Callaway chats with rising country star Dylan Marlowe at the iconic Georgia Theatre in Athens. Dylan shares his journey from small-town Georgia to Nashville, opening up about his early love for baseball, discovering songwriting through Eric Church, and chasing his music dreams with his dad’s support. He reflects on the impact of going number one with “Boys Back Home,” collaborating with artists like Hardy and Connor Smith, and navigating the music industry with authenticity. The two also dive into stories about deer hunting and balancing fame with faith and marriage.

Early Tour Memories (00:01:01) 

Growing Up in Georgia and Discovering Music (00:01:29) 

First Steps into Songwriting and Open Mic Nights (00:03:08) 

Going Number One with “Boys Back Home” (00:04:35)

Writing Trips, Collaboration Culture and Connor Smith (00:06:49) 

Navigating Nashville and Mentorship from Other Artists (00:10:55) 

Touring with Hardy and Signing a Publishing Deal (00:12:08) 

Returning to Georgia Venues and Career Milestones (00:17:44) 

Balancing Faith, Marriage, and the Demands of Touring (00:21:11) 

Advice for Young Musicians and Staying Authentic (00:24:55) 

Deer Stories, Burned Tractor, and Taxidermy Tales (00:30:23) 

Reddit Thread Rumors (00:33:43)  

TJ Callaway is the Founder and CEO of Onward Reserve, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.  

Dylan Marlowe's Website

Dylan Marlowe on Instagram

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ is joined by former NFL player and Georgia Bulldogs star Mohamed Massaquoi to discuss his journey through football, life-changing challenges, and personal growth. Mohamed shares stories from his college and NFL career, reflecting on pivotal moments, rivalries, and lessons learned on and off the field. He opens up about his 2017 ATV accident, which resulted in the loss of his hand, and how it transformed his perspective, leading him to a new path of coaching and motivational speaking. Through resilience and adaptability, Mohamed reveals how sports and business share parallels in teamwork, strategy, and seizing opportunities. 

Mohamed’s Early Life and Football Beginnings (00:01:18)

Transitioning to College Football at Georgia (00:02:32)

Coach Mark Richt and Program Evolution (00:06:13)

NFL Draft and Playing for the Cleveland Browns (00:08:16)

The Intensity of SEC vs. NFL Rivalries (00:11:17)

Mohamed’s 2017 ATV Accident and Recovery (00:35:13)

Life After Football: Coaching and Motivational Speaking (00:37:17)

Lessons for Athletes: Hard Work and Long-Term Vision (00:37:58)

Seizing Opportunities and Overcoming Setbacks (00:41:11)

Closing Reflections and Advice for the Future (00:42:48) 

TJ Callaway is the Founder and CEO of Onward Reserve, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.  

Unreserved kicks off 2025 with comedian Heather McMahan and her husband, Jeff Daniels, about Heather's journey from performing in basements to selling out Radio City Music Hall. Heather reflects on her comedic roots, the challenges of breaking into the entertainment industry, and how her authenticity on social media helped skyrocket her career. The couple shares stories about their relationship, the dynamics of living with Heather’s mother, and the joys and chaos of touring. 

Heather McMahan on Instagram

Heather's website

TJ Callaway is the Founder and CEO of Onward Reserve, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.  

Jamie Shepherd joins Unreserved to discuss the inspiring story behind the Shepherd Center, one of the nation’s leading rehabilitation hospitals. Jamie shares how his father’s life-changing spinal cord injury sparked the creation of this transformative facility and reflects on the center’s mission to provide world-class care for patients with brain and spinal cord injuries. From community-driven programs like recreational therapy to groundbreaking research and support for military veterans, the Shepherd Center’s impact is truly life-changing. Jamie also offers insights into the family’s dedication to fostering hope and empowering patients to rebuild their lives. This conversation is a heartfelt testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of community.  

More information on the Shepherd Center and their incredible work can be found here.

TJ Callaway is the Founder and CEO of Onward Reserve, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.  

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ interviews legendary sports broadcaster Verne Lundquist. Verne reflects on his storied 50-year career covering iconic moments in college football, golf, and the Olympics, sharing behind-the-scenes stories of historic calls like Jack Nicklaus at the Masters and the 2013 Iron Bowl. They also explore Verne’s deep connection to the Masters, his love for classical music, and life in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Filled with humor, wisdom, and candid insights, this conversation captures the essence of a broadcasting icon. 

In this episode of Unreserved, host TJ chats with Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King, tight end Brett Seither, and tight end Jackson Hawes. The trio shares stories from their unique journeys transferring to Georgia Tech, insights into adapting to the program, and the camaraderie that fuels their team. They discuss the highs and lows of college football, reflect on their high school experiences, and touch on the differences between football cultures across regions. With light-hearted banter on topics like their favorite Waffle House orders and hypothetical battles with sharks and alligators, this episode offers an entertaining and authentic glimpse into the lives of these student-athletes.  

Chapters

Introduction (00:00:00)

Meet the Players (00:01:43)

Transitioning from SEC to Georgia Tech (00:08:22)

First King-to-Seither Touchdown (00:10:34)

The Ireland Game Experience (00:16:51)

Growing Up and College Football Favorites (00:23:58)

Georgia Tech Culture vs. Previous Teams (00:26:51)

Breaking Georgia Tech’s Touchdown Record (00:30:00)

Reflections on the First Half of the Season (00:37:43)

Coach Weinke’s Impact on the Team (00:40:49)

Life as a Graduate Transfer (00:42:12)

Life Goals Post-Football (00:57:11)

Learning to Golf (00:54:49)

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ leads a conversation with Doug Ivester, the former Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola, to discuss his incredible career journey from a bag boy at Kroger to leading one of the world’s most iconic brands. Ivester shares insights into his work ethic, the pivotal moments that shaped his path, and his experience with the global expansion of Coca-Cola. They also explore his passion project, Deer Run Plantation, and its unique blend of agriculture and recreation. The episode concludes with Ivester’s reflections on legacy, long-term vision, and the importance of community involvement.  

Chapters

In this episode of "Unreserved," TJ Callaway sits down with two of Georgia's football stars, Warren Brinson and Dan Jackson, right after a big win over Auburn. They discuss the intensity of college football, leadership on the team, and the journey from high school to the national championship stage. Warren and Dan open up about what it takes to play at an elite level, the mental toughness needed to overcome injuries, and the camaraderie that fuels their success. With stories from the field and insights into their personal lives, this episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the heart of Georgia football.

00:00 - Introduction: Meet Warren Brinson and Dan Jackson  

01:36 - Reflections on the Recent Game and NIL Impact  

04:02 - Choosing Georgia: Recruitment Stories  

07:32 - Life at IMG Academy: Transition and Experience  

13:27 - Georgia's Defense Legacy: Building a Winning Mindset  

17:18 - Overcoming Injuries: Mental and Physical Battles  

20:08 - Turning Points in Football: Resilience in Action  

28:35 - Community Impact: Giving Back with NIL Funds  

32:00 - Building Character through Volunteering  

37:20 - Memorable Moments on the Field: The Craziest Atmosphere  

47:50 - Planning for Future Games: Texas and Beyond  

56:00 - Behind the Scenes: Road Game Routines  

Follow Warren Brinson on Instagram

Follow Dan Jackson

TJ Callaway is the Founder and CEO of Onward Reserve, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.