About Our Guest:

Mindy Bess is the founder and CEO of the James Bess Foundation. This foundation is a unique organization that grants a fervent wish to adults (21-65) living in the United States and struggling with a terminal illness with a life expectancy of eighteen months or less. After spending nearly five years watching her father struggle with terminal brain cancer, Mindy knows that having hope and joy in that situation is needed for survival and recovery. By granting a fervent wish to a terminally ill adult, Mindy is helping to give back hope and joy to both the person and their family.

Over the last twenty-plus years Mindy has been building her leadership abilities. At the age of sixteen, Mindy had to become the second adult in her house as her father suffered from terminal brain cancer. She ran the house, took care of her two younger siblings and her father all while her mother went to nursing school. Even though Mindy had a lot of extra responsibilities, she still managed to go to school and work – graduating high school at the top of her class and going on to become the first person in her family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree.

As an Event Coordinator, Mindy has coordinated several events, including a large community event for low-income families and several fundraiser events. In 2016, Mindy started the James Bess Foundation and has since built and run the organization to what it is today. In 2019, Mindy coordinated the first annual James Bess Foundation Fishing Tournament. Finally, in 2019, Mindy partnered with a Dove and Grammy Nominated producer to produce a music CD for an ongoing fundraiser project.

Mindy has the heart to serve and love others in any way she can. She also understands that hard work and perseverance are what it takes to lead and run a successful business. Lastly, because of her upbringing, Mindy has learned to be fiscally prudent and carries that into her personal and professional life.

Mindy holds a BS in hospitality management – with a course emphasis in event coordinating – from the University of Central Florida.

About James Bess Foundation:

James Bess was an incredible man, devoted to his family, faith, and a passion for music, especially Garth Brooks. His life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer in 1998, but his unwavering spirit and faith carried him through three and a half years beyond the given six months to live. He remained firm even in the face of adversity, inspiring his family and friends to fight alongside him. Sadly, he passed away in 2002, but his legacy lives on through his family and the James Bess Foundation.

This foundation honors his memory by fulfilling the dreams of adults facing life's challenges, encouraging them to rediscover lost dreams, and bringing them to fruition. James's lasting impact resonates through his wife, Donna, and his children, Mindy, Jarred, and Jenna, as they continue to embody his legacy in their lives. He was extraordinary, and his legacy inspires others to dream again.

Connect:

jamesbessfdn@gmail.com

https://www.jamesbess.org/

https://www.facebook.com/James.Bess.Foundation

Hidden Gems:

Ole Red

300 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201

https://olered.com/nashville/

Legendairy Milkshake Bar

171 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201

https://www.legendairymilkshakebar.com/

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What is Nashville 2?

Nashville 2 is a podcast series that showcases interviews with the everyday people in Nashville who are making an impact in their communities. Learn about Non-Profits, Business Leaders, and Community-Minded individuals in the Nashville Metro Area. Are you looking for a way to raise awareness about your business or nonprofit? We want to share your story! Join Edward Fox on Nashville 2 to share how you are making a difference.

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