About the Guests:

In this episode, we're introduced to Kirsten Turner and Amit Prabhakar, the dynamic duo from icode Tri-Cities. Kirsten Turner, originally from Phoenix, Arizona, has an educational background with experience in teaching and school administration. Amit Prabhakar brings a wealth of knowledge from the IT sector, having immigrated from India in 2007 with a passion for new technologies and cultures. Together, they represent icode Tri-Cities, an organization dedicated to bringing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Art) programs to young students in the Tri-City area.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging conversation with Colin Johnson, Kirsten Turner and Amit Prabhakar discuss the impactful role of STEM education and their organization, icode Tri-Cities. From the favorable community vibe of Johnson City to the nitty-gritty of education in tech and critical thinking, they explore how icode Tri-Cities brings vital educational experiences to today's youth.

The episode delves into the essential nature of STEM, often elaborated as STEAM to include art, and the urgency of preparing students for the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Kirsten and Amit unfold the various offerings of icode Tri-Cities, emphasizing summer camps and programs that extend beyond the realm of basic curriculum to hands-on, interactive learning experiences, thereby sowing the seeds for a generation of innovators and problem solvers.

Key Takeaways:

• icode Tri-Cities is pioneering a new program model to deliver cutting-edge STEM education to the Tri-City area and beyond.
• The STEAM curriculum is designed to engage students with hands-on learning experiences, including robot battles and design projects.
• icode Tri-Cities caters not only to schools but also provides programs accessible to homeschoolers and after-school settings.
• Funding and adapting to local needs are some of the logistical challenges icode Tri-Cities faced while setting up in the Tri-City area.
• Summer camps are a significant part of their offerings, featuring engaging education in robotics, drone coding, and even video game design, emphasizing both fun and learning.

Notable Quotes:

• "STEM is a very unique field where you're basically teaching a child how to think, how to troubleshoot, how to be creative, how to be innovative." - Amit Prabhakar
• "We're taking students to the other side of Roblox, and they were the ones actually building and designing, creating the games." - Kirsten Turner
• "Each year, or the topic that they choose, has a color. So at the end of the year, they will graduate to that color." - Amit Prabhakar, on the upcoming 'belt' program
• "It's not just about creating a curriculum, but also you got to test it, you got to test the code, you got to test the hardware and all that stuff." - Amit Prabhakar

Resources:

• Ico Tri city Website: icodeschool.com/tricitiestn
• Social Media: Follow icode Tri-cities on Facebook and Instagram @icode.tri.cities.

Listen to the full episode to explore the colorful world of STEM education with Kirsten Turner and Amit Prabhakar and discover how icode Tri-cities is nurturing young minds for a better tomorrow. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from this podcast series.

About the Guest:

Allie Bynum is a dedicated advocate for the promotion and sustainability of tourism in Northeast Tennessee. She serves as the Membership and Marketing Curator for the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing the region's economic and community growth. Outside of her role, Allie hosts her own podcast, "Meet Me in Tennessee," collaboratively produced by Maypop Media, where she explores activities, events, and the scenic beauty of Northeast Tennessee. Growing up in Bowmantown, Allie's passion for the outdoors was kindled by her early experiences in nature, a theme that resonates deeply with her work and personal interests.

Episode Summary:

In this enriching episode of the podcast, host Colin Johnson welcomes Allie Bynum from the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association to discuss her role in the organization and her love for the region's burgeoning arts, culture, and outdoor scenes. The conversation provides a glimpse into the vibrant life of Northeast Tennessee, as Allie shares personal anecdotes and professional insights alike.

Opening with the bustling energy of downtown Johnson City and the unique downtown art scene, Allie expresses a fondness for the local murals and the niche community that Johnson City has fostered. She emphasizes the local vibe of the merchants and farm-to-table goods and services that speak to her deeply. As the talk broadens to encompass Northeast Tennessee, Allie details her work with the tourism association, how they attract visitors, and the substantial $841 million economic impact tourism brings to the region.

Key Takeaways:

• Allie Bynum is intensely passionate about Northeast Tennessee, underscoring the region's unique art scene, community vibe, and local businesses.
• The Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association plays a crucial role in driving economic and community growth, with Allie at the helm of membership and marketing efforts.
• Hiking and the outdoors hold a special place in Allie's heart, with Roan Mountain being her top destination for its feeling of seclusion and natural beauty.
• There's an ongoing goal within the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association to increase membership and awareness, with Allie spearheading innovative marketing campaigns.
• Allie's podcast, "Meet Me in Tennessee," is a valuable resource for those looking to explore and understand the region's offerings more intimately.

Notable Quotes:

• "So Johnson City was coming to town for us…we didn't have dollar generals on every roadblock corner side, so we had to drive 35, 40 minutes to get to Walmart or the grocery store." - Allie Bynum reflecting on her rural upbringing.
• "I can tell you that tourism brings in $841 million economic impact to northeast Tennessee." - Allie highlighting the importance of tourism.
• "My first vivid memory ever…is being on a backpack on my father's back overlooking a waterfall." - Allie on one of her earliest inspirations for her love of the outdoors.
• "We are so blessed and fortunate for the amount of parks and green spaces that we do have already." - Allie advocating for the appreciation of the region's natural resources.

Resources:

• Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association website: Northeast Tennessee Tourism
• Allie's Podcast: "Meet Me in Tennessee" available on Spotify, Apple Music, & YouTube

Make sure to tune in to the full episode for a deep dive into why Johnson City and Northeast Tennessee are such exceptional places to live, work, and play. Stay connected with the podcast for more fascinating conversations that bring the stories and experiences of notable individuals right to your ears.

About the Guest:

Natalie Pickering is a licensed psychologist with expertise in trauma and clinical work. With a Ph.D. in psychology, Natalie has traversed diverse professional paths including her initial career as a high school language arts teacher, serving as a counselor in Nigeria, acquiring her master's in counseling, and eventually a psychologist trained in the Enneagram and nutritional psychology. She operates her business, High Places Coaching and Consulting, where she employs the Enneagram among other tools to help individuals and teams reach their full potential.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Natalie Pickering, a skilled psychologist whose passion lies in guiding people toward their summit of personal growth. Natalie shares her journey from a farm girl to an airforce academy attendee, a high school teacher, and finally, into the field of psychology, which has become her calling.

Illuminating the conversation with her personal story, Natalie touches on how she found her path in the field of psychology, highlighting the transformative power of the Enneagram in understanding one's motivations and behaviors. This tool, she says, is instrumental in aiding personal development and steering individuals towards recognizing and overcoming challenges. The discussion also dives into the differences between various mental health practices, the nuances of the Enneagram, and Natalie's approach to intensive therapy sessions which aim to impact community health one individual at a time.

Key Takeaways:

• Natalie Pickering is an experienced psychologist with a deep understanding of trauma, who now runs High Places Coaching and Consulting.
• She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's motivations through tools like the Enneagram in personal and professional development.
• Natalie describes the educational path to becoming a psychologist and the interdisciplinary nature of her work.
• Hosting workshops and providing team coaching are some of the services offered by Natalie's practice.
• She advises young people and those considering a career in psychology to stay open to new experiences and to take time exploring different fields.

Notable Quotes:

• "So very big circuit of a route… So we lived in Nigeria for a few years, working for a faith-based not-for-profit. I was in a little over my head, so needed more training, came to Louisville, got my PhD."
• "We always have all nine [Enneagram types], but we're driving from one."
• "I honor your story… I'm bearing witness to the honoring of how this beautiful person got here."
• "Stay open. If you can take a variety of things, do that."

Resources:

• High Places Coaching and Consulting: yourhighestplaces.com
• Mentioned Enneagram assessment websites: WEPSS and the Integrative Enneagram (integrative9.com)
• Book: "Hinds' Feet on High Places" by Hannah Hurnard

Encourage your personal growth by delving into the full episode for in-depth conversations and profound insights on life and career development. Stay tuned for more enriching episodes from this series that promise to enlighten and inspire.

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.

About the Guests:

Timmy Norman and Angela Bowes are the dynamic and talented duo from Cake Buds Bakery located in Johnson City. As celebrity superstars in the baking world, they have graced several cooking shows on TV with their presence and have a strong reputation for crafting unbelievable baked creations. Timmy, with a background in graphic design and fine arts, combines his love for art and baking by specializing in sculpted cakes. Angela hails from Pennsylvania, with a rich heritage of country baking and years of experience in the baking industry, bringing passion and creativity to Cake Buds.

In this mouth-watering episode of the podcast, host Colin sits down with Timmy Norman and Angela Bowes of Cake Buds Bakery, well-known from their appearances on various TV cooking shows. The Johnson City weather sets the backdrop for a conversation that delves into the local culinary scene, Cake Buds' origins, and the secrets behind their winning streak in baking competitions.

Timmy and Angela share their personal journeys, including Timmy's leap from graphic design in the medical field to opening Cake Buds, driven by his passion for creative baking. Angela recounts her background, her move from Connecticut to Johnson City, and how she saw an opportunity to work with Timmy. The turning point was her keen eye for quality, which made Cake Buds stand out amongst other local bakeries.

• Timmy and Angela highlight the unique warm-and-humble qualities of Johnson City and its Appalachian roots.
• The conversation leads us into the heart of Cake Buds, where Timmy and Angela unravel the bakery's offerings, including custom cakes, cupcakes, ice cream, and French macarons.

• Timmy Norman transitioned from a career in graphic design to opening Cake Buds Bakery, fueled by his love for cake sculpting.
• Angela Bowes joined Timmy to pursue her passion for baking, leaving behind a career in the medical field.
• Cake Buds stands out for its custom-designed cakes that have caught national attention, winning several baking shows on TV.
• The bakery offers an array of goodies, from flavorful cupcakes to delectable ice cream, appealing to the diverse tastes of Johnson City residents.
• Both Timmy and Angela are passionate about teaching, offering classes to share their baking skills with enthusiasts.

• "We love Johnson City weather because it's always different. Keeps you on your toes." - Colin
• "It's appalachian, and you have the warmth of southern people, but it's not the backwoods." - Timmy
• "I started googling all the bakeries that were in, like, a 30 minutes radius of me… and I came across Timmy's page, and I was like, wow, he's actually the, can I say, the only bakery in the area that I saw that really had the quality of work that I was looking to be part of." - Angela
• "I've always unsculpted cakes, and so it kind of catches people's attention when it's not a sheet cake and it's not, you know, a store bought cake." - Timmy
• "We're really trying to focus a lot more lately in doing more, like, pastry style and baked goods." - Timmy

• Cake Buds Bakery Website: mycakebuds.com
• Cake Buds on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok: @cakebuds, @cakebuds.JC

As we wrap up a delightful session of cake talks and insights into the sweet life of baking, we encourage you not to miss out on this rich and flavorful episode with Timmy and Angela from Cake Buds Bakery. Stay tuned for more episodes that promise to tantalize your taste buds and inspire your culinary adventures!

Olivia May Adkins is a seasoned fashion blogger and social media influencer known as Olivia Maybell. With a background that includes a family of medical professionals, Olivia initially embarked on a pre-med path before finding her calling in the social media world. Combining her passion for fashion, travel, and digital content creation, Olivia has built a successful online presence spanning multiple platforms. As a mother of three, she balances her bustling family life with her professional pursuits in the ever-changing landscape of influencer marketing.

In this engaging episode, Colin Johnson, host of the podcast, invites Olivia May Adkins, an old friend and fashion influencer, to share her journey, insights into influencer marketing, and her love for Johnson City's culture and charm. As they discuss various topics ranging from favorite local spots to the intricacies of social media, listeners will get an intimate glimpse into Olivia's life and the motivations behind her vibrant online persona.

Olivia opens up about how she stumbled into the world of content creation, discussing the growth of her online presence and her strategies for staying relevant in the rapidly evolving landscape of social media. From learning to code her own website to navigating the complex algorithms of different platforms, she provides a unique inside look at what it takes to be a successful influencer. As a local influencer, Olivia also shines a light on Johnson City's evolution, highlighting her favorite restaurants, parks, and community features.

• Olivia May Adkins recounts her unexpected transition from a pre-med track to becoming a fashion blogger and influencer, known as Olivia Maybell.
• The discussion delves deeply into the influencer marketing industry, including the ever-changing social media algorithms and content creation strategies.
• Olivia emphasizes the importance of starting a project yourself, learning as you go, and the value of uniqueness in establishing a personal brand.
• Johnson City's culture, including its food scene and family-friendly activities, are celebrated as Olivia shares her top local picks.
• A glimpse into Olivia's personal life and future plans reveals her upcoming move to San Diego, supported by her husband's navy career.

• "I like to associate myself with [the term blogger]… I think 'influencer' gets a bad rap to people who are not heavy in social media." - Olivia May Adkins
• "I would say, just start. That's probably the biggest piece of it." - Olivia May Adkins on how to break into content creation.
• "You never realize how, like, small-town and southern Johnson city is until you move away and come back." - Olivia May Adkins on her affection for Johnson City.

• Olivia May Adkins' social media presence can be found under the name @OliviaMaybell across various platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Facebook, YouTube, and her personal website: https://oliviamaybell.com/.

Join us in this delightful episode to hear more about Olivia's story, insider tips on becoming an influencer, and the factors that make Johnson City a special place for her and her family. Don't miss out on the full conversation for deeper insights and stay tuned for more inspiring episodes from the podcast.