Episodes

Explore the strength and unity of Bryson City, North Carolina, as Erin Smith, owner of Humanité Boutique, shares her journey as a small business owner during challenging times. Learn how the community came together after Hurricane Helene, the lessons that shaped their recovery, and the impact of supporting one another. Erin’s story reveals the importance of connection, resilience, and creating a meaningful legacy, all set against the backdrop of Bryson City’s natural beauty and holiday charm.

In this episode, I sit down with a leader who helps shape the story of one of North Carolina’s most beloved mountain towns. Bryson City, nestled in the Smoky Mountains, is known for its small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and holiday traditions—but recently the community faced an unexpected challenge when Hurricane Helene swept through Western North Carolina. In our conversation, we talk about the spirit of Bryson City, the resilience of its people, and how a tight-knit community came together ...

In this episode, I speak with the Tourism and Marketing Director of Beech Mountain, North Carolina, about what the High Country has experienced in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. While some communities faced devastating losses, Beech Mountain and surrounding areas have been working tirelessly to recover, support neighbors, and prepare to welcome visitors back for winter season. We talk about the uncertainty during the first days after the storm, when roads were washed out, communication was d...

In this episode, I visit 96 Pecan Company and sit down with owner John Murray, whose story blends farming, faith, football, and community. What started with the purchase of a historic southern property—complete with pecan trees planted in the late 1800s—turned into a full-time commitment to preserving tradition and sharing the experience of farm life with visitors. John shares how the orchard, the store, and the tasting experience were all built around one simple idea: when people walk through t...

In this episode, I sit down with Chef Erica McCier at Indigenous Underground in Abbeville, South Carolina—a restaurant built from courage, creativity, and an incredible personal journey. Erica shares how her life changed after developing a serious kidney disease that left her hospitalized for months and forced her to rethink everything she thought her future would look like. What began as a hobby while sitting through dialysis treatments—watching cooking shows and enrolling in culinary classes—s...

In this episode, I visit Sharon Manor in Abbeville, South Carolina, and sit down with owner Benita Chupp to learn the story behind this beautifully restored historic building. What was once a rural schoolhouse from the early 1920s has been transformed into a charming bed and breakfast—but the path to creating it wasn’t something Benita and her family had planned. After discovering the building through an online auction, they took a leap of faith and stepped into a renovation project that would e...

In this episode, I sit down with Chef Darren Smith, the chef and owner behind two successful restaurants, to talk about what it really takes to build a lasting career in the restaurant industry. Darren shares how his journey into cooking began unexpectedly while attending college to play soccer, and how the craft of cooking—along with the camaraderie and creativity of the kitchen—quickly became a lifelong passion. Over the years, that passion has grown into a career defined by mentorship, strong...

In this episode, I sit down with Shawn Askinosie, founder of Askinosie Chocolate, whose journey from criminal defense lawyer to chocolate maker is as powerful as it is unexpected. After nearly two decades of handling serious felony and murder cases, Shawn found himself at a crossroads when the emotional toll of the work began affecting his health and perspective on life. What followed wasn’t an overnight transformation but a slow search for purpose that eventually led him to the world of craft c...

History isn’t just something you read about—it’s something you can step into and experience for yourself. I had the chance to sit down with Rachel Knight, Tourism Director of Berkeley County, South Carolina, and uncover the powerful stories woven into this region—from Revolutionary War legends to the cultural roots that continue to shape the community today. We explore how Berkeley County became a key player in the American Revolutionary War, the incredible historic sites you can still visit, a...

Some places feel like a hidden escape—and Swan Lake Iris Gardens is exactly that. I had the chance to walk through this beautiful spot in Sumter, South Carolina, with Chrissy Milan and Colette Daniels, learning how a simple fishing retreat turned into one of the most unique gardens in the country. We talk about the unexpected story behind the famous Japanese irises, what makes this park so special—from all eight swan species to its peaceful, storybook feel—and how the community has come togethe...

There’s something special about traditions that bring people together—and shag dancing is exactly that. I sat down with local shag experts in North Myrtle Beach to talk about the history, evolution, and heart behind South Carolina’s state dance, and what it means to the people who live it every day. From first discovering the dance at the old Myrtle Beach Pavilion to the lifelong friendships, community, and even love stories that have grown from it, this conversation dives into how shag is so m...

Sometimes the most meaningful stories come from places built with heart—and Winna’s Kitchen is exactly that. I sat down with Chef Jess Sagan in Myrtle Beach to talk about the journey behind her restaurant, the inspiration rooted in family, and the courage it takes to chase something bigger than yourself. We dive into how food, community, and purpose all come together under one roof—from creative, elevated dishes to a powerful mission that’s changing lives. This conversation goes beyond the kitc...

Some legacies don’t just shape history—they continue to inspire generations. I had the opportunity to visit the Benjamin E. Mays Historic Preservation Site in Greenwood, South Carolina, and sit down with Christopher Thomas, Executive Director of the site, to learn more about the life, impact, and enduring influence of Dr. Benjamin E. Mays. We talk about his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global leader, mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and a powerful voice for justice and huma...

There’s something powerful about a story rooted in purpose, passion, and giving back—and Chef Daryl Shular’s journey is exactly that. In this conversation, I connect with Chef Shular, a certified master chef and visionary leader in the culinary world, to talk about what it truly means to succeed and bring others along with you. We dive into his path from early inspiration in the kitchen to becoming the first African American certified master chef, and how that achievement shaped his mission to ...

As the executive director of The Kentucky Wildlands, Tammie Nazario has been a driving force behind the region's economic pivot from coal to tourism. With over 800 waterfalls as her office backdrop, Tammie embodies the resilience and spirit of her homeland, and she's here to tell us how her team has managed to carve a trail of hope through these enchanting woods. Home to mist-shrouded mountains and ancient forests, this 14,000-square-mile wilderness is a haven for adventure, culture, and tradit...

There’s something deeply inspiring about choosing a life that feels true to you—even when it looks completely different from what’s expected. I had the chance to connect with Lisa Jansen, a New Zealand-based writer and digital nomad, to talk about her bold decision to step away from a conventional life and create something entirely her own. We explore what it really means to walk away from “what’s next” and instead ask “what else is possible?” From life on the road in a camper van to the lesson...

There’s something incredibly powerful about redefining what’s possible—and Kristen Secor is doing exactly that. Born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy, she has faced challenges that could easily limit her world, but instead, she’s expanded it—traveling across continents and proving that adventure is still within reach. We talk about how her journey into accessible travel began, the realities of navigating the world with a disability, and how she’s now helping others do the same through her...

Some stories are born out of loss—but transform into something far greater. In this conversation with Kamal X, a self-taught documentary photographer, we explore how a deeply personal experience turned into a journey of purpose, creativity, and global storytelling. We get into how travel became a path to healing, how photography evolved into a powerful voice, and what it really means to capture truth in a world that often moves too fast to notice it. From documenting life across 40+ countries t...

There’s something really special about rediscovering a place that shaped you—and that’s exactly what Mandy Volpe shares as she walks us through her journey with the Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK) in Gainesville, Georgia. From volunteering as a teenager to now leading the organization, Mandy’s story is a full-circle moment rooted in creativity, community, and a deep love for helping kids grow through play. We explore how INK brings real-world experiences to life for children, helping th...

Travel has a way of shifting something deep within us—and in this Inspirational Interlude, I explore how stepping outside of our comfort zones can completely transform the way we see the world… and ourselves. From navigating unfamiliar places to embracing moments of solitude, this episode dives into the powerful connection between travel and self-discovery. I share personal experiences, lessons learned, and simple yet meaningful ways travel can challenge your assumptions, build confidence, and ...

Travel becomes so much more meaningful when we approach it with intention—and in this Inspirational Interlude, I share how shifting your mindset can completely transform your experiences. It’s not just about where you go, but how you show up when you get there. From connecting with locals to embracing the present moment, intentional travel opens the door to deeper connections and lasting impact. I also reflect on personal experiences that highlight the beauty of cultural exchange, stepping outs...

There’s something incredibly powerful about turning your passion into a purpose—and that’s exactly what Royce Johnson’s story reflects. From growing up immersed in the outdoors to building a career in park management, Royce shares how his love for nature evolved into a lifelong mission of serving both people and the environment. His journey is one of resilience, dedication, and finding meaning in the spaces that connect us to something bigger. We also dive into the realities of balancing a dema...