Originally from Charleston with a passion for sailing, Tom is a Regional Manager for SCORE here in Transylvania County and enjoys being active in our community. Listen to Tom’s commentary on what SCORE mentoring program is all about, his experience working for the local Census efforts, and the recent “Heroes and Teachers” awards program he arranged for the stars of our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Enjoy this dynamic interview with Earl where we learn about the powerful mission taking hold to encourage and include black folks and all types of folks in engaging the beauty of the outdoors, as well as the relationships we can build together. Also hear about Earl’s authoring of children’s books, his 14,000 mile, 3 month journey with his son to visit National Parks, and why he is a hugger AND a shover.

013 - Belinda shares her story of coming to Brevard, her own health challenges, the vision for a wellness center and how it developed to include a community kitchen, yoga, wellness consultants, and even "mountain moss" garden on the grounds.
Learn more about Blue Zones Brevard and how it can help you find an easier path to healthier living and longevity!

012 - Mike runs a software company, volunteers in the community through the school system, works with the rotary club and as a SCORE mentor helping businesses with a variety of needs as well as being an avid gardener, birder, and photographer.

Listen in as he describes his experience working on a PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) project during the COVID-19 Pandemic as a purchasing agent for Brevard and Transylvania County!

011 - Lauren has been a certified yoga teacher for over 10 years while studying mindfulness and meditation at an ever deeper level. Still a runner, hiker and cyclist, she has been a teacher in various settings since she completed her Undergraduate degree in Women’s Studies & International Studies at UNC Chapel Hill and her Masters degree in Education from UVA.

Lauren is passionate about connecting people to the natural world as well as helping all of us manage our stress, honor our bodies, and develop self compassion and unstoppable kindness for others.

010 - Angela has over 25 years of business experience with international corporations, small and medium enterprises, and entrepreneurs. She is passionate about living a life of purpose, meaning and success. Drawing upon her personal experience, knowledge and expertise, Angela delivers practical yet dynamic leadership development to audiences around the world.

Before returning home to the mountains of North Carolina to start her own business, Angela worked for Procter & Gamble where she held a variety of positions in manufacturing operations, business leadership, organizational development, and human resources. A dedicated wife, mother and daughter, Angela loves hiking the mountains of WNC and feels most successful when helping others discover their own success.

09 - Sarah believes that everyone should have equal access to customized health education and support. She is passionate about helping her community make informed choices that will benefit their health for a better today and tomorrow.  Sarah is an active community member and enjoys her involvement with the Pisgah Forest Rotary Club, Brevard Transylvania Chamber of Commerce, and the Blue Zones Project- Brevard.

07 - Get unique insight to creativity and our community from artist and marketing professional Joan Van Orman. Joan specializes in marketing communications and public relations for photographers, artisans, and creative businesses as well as being a volunteer for our local Blue Zone program.

Learn more about the Arts Council’s 35-year mission to enhance quality of life for all who live and work here; by celebrating and nurturing the creative spirit of artists, youth and individuals throughout Transylvania County.

06 - Colin is the TRAIN (Transylvania Resource Action Information Network) specialist for United Way of Transylvania County.  TRAIN’S mission is to provide support for nonprofits and an intersection for public, private, nonprofit, health and human services agencies to communicate and make the most of resources mainly focusing on health solutions. She has over 20 years experience working in nonprofits and social service orgs with an emphasis on education and empowerment for underserved populations.