About the Guest:

Rebecca Russell, known fondly as Becky among friends, is an accomplished author and holistic wellness mentor with a penchant for personal development. Having published traditional romance novels with Harlequin Silhouette and contributed to empowering anthologies like "Uncover Your Light," Rebecca's literary journey reflects her multifaceted interests and relentless spirit. Her advocacy for female professional growth leads her to preside over the Femm City chapter, a networking group aimed at encouraging business and personal development for women. With a storied background transitioning from holistic health enthusiast to doTERRA wellness advocate, Rebecca's wisdom spans multiple spheres, including emotional, physical, spiritual, and financial well-being.

Episode Summary:

In this heartwarming episode of Johnson City Living, host Colin Johnson introduces us to Rebecca Russell, a beacon of inspiration with her profound impact on personal wellness and women's empowerment. The conversation uncovers the blossoming of Johnson City in spring, the transformative powers of essential oils, and the undeniable strength of community found within FemCity.

The episode beckons you into the scenic vistas of Johnson City, as Rebecca and Colin share their adoration for the mountains and nature's ceremonious display of renewal. Rebecca's narrative encapsulates not only the beauty of the locale but also her journey into business at the unconventional age of 58, demonstrating that true passion knows no boundaries. These summaries offer a glimpse into Rebecca's holistic approach to wellness, her adroit stewardship of FemCity, and her literary contributions that shed light on conquering adversity with grace.

Key Takeaways:

• Johnson City offers a unique juxtaposition of flourishing flora and seasonal allergies, inspiring both awe and conversation about regional experiences.
• Rebecca Russell leads FemCity with the aim of fostering strong, supportive networks for professional women at various stages of their lives and careers.
• Essential oils play a pivotal role in Rebecca's journey to wellness, and she describes their emotional healing properties, citing doTERRA's approach to ethical sourcing and community contribution.
• Rebecca emphasizes the importance of sleep and advocates for broadening the conversation around holistic health practices for emotional well-being.
• Through storytelling and shared experiences, Rebecca is penning a nonfiction book that aims to equip readers with resources and wisdom for holistic wellness.

Notable Quotes:

• "The mountains, absolutely. You can hear them calling, can't you?"
• "It is a mastermind slash networking group for female professionals. And it's really open to all levels."
• "Every oil has an emotional component, which a lot of people don't know."
• "If you're not dealing with some emotional trauma that is why you put on the weight in the first place, you're not going to last long at the gym."
• "I do want to say the oils alone are not enough. You have to create or I do a nighttime routine that gave my brain time."

Resources:

• Book: "Uncover Your Light: Empowering Stories of Hope and Resilience"
• https://femcity.com/

Tune in to the full episode for a deep dive into Rebecca Russell's insightful perspectives on personal development, the potent power of essential oils, and the mission of Femm City. Stay connected with us for more riveting discussions and enrich your understanding of holistic health and community empowerment.

About the Guests:

In this episode, we're introduced to Vik Vatarana and Kartik Kumar, the entrepreneurial duo behind the lively Diablo Bar and Grill located in Johnson City. Vik, who hails from a small town near the Himalayas in north Punjab, India, moved to Johnson City from New Jersey in 2005. With over two decades of experience in the restaurant and real estate industry, Vik has successfully run Sahib Indian Restaurant since 2006 and has expanded into local hotel ownership.

Kartik Kumar grew up in the bustling capital of India, New Delhi, before moving to Johnson City under the mentorship of Vik. With a background in managing family hospitality businesses back in India, Kartik has adapted and thrived in the local restaurant scene, now co-owning Diablo Bar and Grill and bringing his dream of a nightlife spot to life.

Episode Summary:

In this lively episode, we dive into the inspiring journeys of Vik Vatarana and Kartik Kumar, two passionate entrepreneurs who have introduced vibrant dining and nightlife experiences to Johnson City. These industry veterans share their stories from early beginnings to the recent successes of opening and managing Diablo Bar and Grill.

Starting with a nod to the beloved golf Masters weekend, the conversation quickly transitions to the entrepreneurial ventures of Vik and Kartik. We learn about the inception and growth of Sahib Indian Restaurant, a cornerstone of Johnson City's culinary scene, as well as the birth of Diablo Bar and Grill, which brings Mexican cuisine and exciting nightlife to the forefront.

Key Takeaways:

• Vik Vatarana and Kartik Kumar share a deep passion for the restaurant industry, which led them to open Diablo Bar and Grill alongside Sahib Indian Restaurant in Johnson City.
• Despite the challenges of COVID-19, their resilience and commitment to their businesses have led to thriving establishments that add vibrancy to the local community.
• Diablo Bar and Grill offers a unique combination of Mexican cuisine and a nightlife experience, filling a niche in Johnson City.
• The significance of family and connections shines through their journey, as both Vik and Kartik emphasize the role of their cultural background and familial support in their entrepreneurial paths.
• Both guests highlight the opportunities and the welcoming nature of America, expressing gratitude for the chance to succeed and grow in their adopted city.

Notable Quotes:

• "Life, you'll have challenges, and we just have to overcome and work hard and just, you know, and just keep moving forward." — Vik Vatarana on overcoming obstacles.
• "You show up every day and try to, you know, get things done and life, life is not easy. But if you work hard and you're focused, it's the easiest thing." — Vik Vatarana on hard work.
• "Now I'm grateful, to be honest. Yes. Blessed." — Kartik Kumar reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey.

Resources:

• Sahib Indian Restaurant
• Diablo Bar and Grill - Located at 216 East Main Street, Johnson City.

Tune into this episode for a full plate of inspiration, served with a side of entrepreneurial spirit that is sure to engage food enthusiasts and business-minded listeners alike. Stay tuned for more captivating stories and insights from industry leaders in our future episodes!

About the Guest:

Brian Mullin is an experienced tattoo artist and snake charmer known for his expertise in the field. He has made a significant mark in the tattooing community with his impressive work that spans various styles, with a particular affinity for Japanese style and traditional tattooing. Originally hailing from the Pacific Northwest and having a professional background in automotive painting, Brian brings a unique blend of skills and aesthetic to his craft. Now a Johnson City resident, he co-owns and operates Snake Charmer Tattoo Parlour located on North Roan Street. Brian is not only known for his artistry but also for the deep, personal connections he establishes with his clients.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode, listeners are introduced to Brian Mullin, a tattoo artist with a passion for self-expression and the intricate art of tattooing. With his move to Johnson City and the purchase of a house, Brian has embraced the community and the beauty of East Tennessee's natural landscape.

The conversation with Brian Mullin delves into the intricacies of the tattooing profession, exploring both the personal and artistic dimensions of this unique form of self-expression. From discussing the impact of weather on viewing the eclipse to the soothing pastime of bonsai tree care, Brian offers insight into his life and passions outside of his tattooing career.

• Key Takeaways:
  • Tattooing is not only an artistic expression but also a tradition with a rich history, requiring expertise and an understanding of the craft.
  • Selecting a tattoo artist involves more than just evaluating their work; it's about personal connection and trust between the artist and client.
  • Tattoos are personal decisions often representing memories or important aspects of an individual's life, and their permanence is a major consideration.
  • Aftercare is crucial for the longevity of a tattoo, with hydration, skincare, and protection from the sun being vital.
  • The journey of tattooing is as much about the relationships built along the way as it is about the final piece of art.

Notable Quotes:

• "Tattooing is like, it's tattooing and when it comes down to it, there's a right way and a wrong way to do it."
• "I get paid to do what I love."
• "People often call it therapy because we'll take the time."
• "Nothing better than a good session where the client’s happy, you’re happy, everything works out, everybody wins."
• "A cover up is like something that you take time."

Resources:

• Brian Mullin's Instagram: @tattoosby.brian
• Snake Charmer Tattoo Parlour Location: 1210 North Roan Street, Suite 2, Johnson City

For anyone intrigued by the art of tattooing or considering their first or next tattoo, this conversation with Brian Mullin provides not only a behind-the-scenes look at the tattooing process but also the philosophy and personal connections that make it significant. Tune in to the full episode to absorb more of Brian's passion and stories from the world of tattooing, and stay connected for more episodes that tap into the fascinating experiences of diverse individuals.