In this inspiring episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with licensed psychotherapist and mindset mentor Dilyse Diaz for a deep dive into the power of positive thinking, resilience, and intentional living. Dilyse shares her compelling journey from a challenging upbringing in California to building a thriving practice and wellness retreat in Tennessee. Together, they explore strategies for pausing and pivoting during adversity, harnessing the law of attraction, and cultivating gratitude and mindfulness for long-term success in life and business.

Highlights include:
How to pause, pivot, and choose purposeful responses when facing challenges

The role of disciplined thoughts and beliefs in shaping your reality

Real stories about building a business through vision, self-care, and empathy
Actionable advice on setting meaningful goals, overcoming setbacks, and fostering daily gratitude

The importance of self-compassion, growth mindset, and connecting authentically with others

Plus, Dilyse offers exclusive access to a complimentary masterclass for listeners who mention the podcast. Tune in for practical tools and heartfelt inspiration to create the business—and the life—you truly want.

Follow Dilyse:
https://www.dilysediaz.com/

_____________________________________________________________________
****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos
__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________
If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!
https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668
___________________________________________________________
***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:
https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip
_________________________________________________________________
The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:
Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org
______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co

Episode Title: "Real Estate & Real Connections w/ Art Kelly"

Show Description & Highlights: Join us for a compelling episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, featuring local realtor and entrepreneur Art Kelly of Realty One Group. Art and host Jim dive deep into how genuine relationships and authenticity are the bedrock of success in Middle Tennessee’s ever-evolving business landscape.

Key highlights include:
Art’s candid business journey: from various odd jobs to thriving in real estate.

How the pandemic forever changed the Middle Tennessee housing market—and how both buyers and agents have adapted.

Sage advice for business owners and sales professionals on nurturing a referral-based business, the “Friend Maker Challenge,” and the long-term benefits of authentic, recurring connections.

Open discussion on overcoming market fear, volatility, and industry misconceptions.

Why empathy, trust, and friendship—not just sales tactics—lead to lasting community impact.

The importance of personal touch and imperfect human connection amidst a digital, AI-driven world.

Tune in for inspiring stories, local wisdom, and practical strategies to help your business thrive in today’s Middle Tennessee marketplace.

Follow Art:
https://artkellyrealtor.com/

_____________________________________________________________________
****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos
__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________
If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!
https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668
___________________________________________________________
***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:
https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip
_________________________________________________________________
The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:
Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org
______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co

Teaching, Trades & College Myths w/ Greg Svihlik :: Ep 267 Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast

Podcast Title: "Teaching, Trades & College Myths"

What happens when a veteran Middle Tennessee teacher gets brutally honest about grades, test scores, college, and what kids actually need to succeed? In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with Williamson County educator Greg Svihlik for a raw, wide‑ranging conversation on modern education—and why it matters to parents, business owners, and the next generation of workers.

Greg shares the seventh‑grade moment that changed his life, when a math teacher told him he’d be “flipping burgers” for not understanding algebra. That wound became a mission: never making a student feel small as a person, even while being brutally direct about effort, responsibility, and results. From there, Jim and Greg dig into the pendulum swings of education—test retakes, grade inflation, and the pressure to chase test scores while trying to build actual humans.

Together, they unpack the stigma around blue‑collar work, the push that “everyone must go to college,” and why Greg believes we’re failing kids by not championing trades, vocational paths, and real‑world skills. They also explore how AI, social media, and declining trust in institutions are reshaping how students see work, authority, and truth—and why Greg calls his social studies class a “life skills class in disguise.”

If you’re a parent wondering how to guide your kids, a business owner frustrated with the workforce pipeline, or a young person trying to figure out your path, this episode offers perspective, challenge, and a lot of heart. From propaganda and the American Revolution to college debt, trade school success stories, and parenting in the age of iPads, Greg and Jim cover the hard questions most people avoid.

Episode Highlights:

The brutal comment from a seventh‑grade teacher that pushed Greg into education

Why Greg insists on seeing students as people first, kids second, students third

How test retakes, safety nets, and grade inflation changed student motivation

Greg’s case for failing early and safely in middle school instead of in college

Why he tells parents that state standards are low on his priority list

The argument for trade schools, HVAC, mechanics, and blue‑collar paths

A former struggling student now flipping cars and making more than many grads

Why Greg believes AI can’t replace teachers: the irreplaceable human element

Teacher burnout, stress, pay—and why 100+ kids’ lives are on your mind at night

How social media and 24/7 news drive cynicism and distrust in the next generation

Teaching propaganda through the American Revolution and modern media examples

Greg’s budgeting project using his real paycheck to teach money and life

How parents unintentionally rob kids of struggle by over‑protecting them

The difference between working hard and “working smart” as an excuse for laziness

Why Greg calls his classroom a place to build confidence, communication, and grit

_____________________________________________________________________

****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos

__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________

If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!

https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668

___________________________________________________________

***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:

https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip

_________________________________________________________________

The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:

Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org

______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co

What can a career that spans space‑shuttle electronics, cell towers, and corporate hypergrowth teach us about small business, culture, and entrepreneurship in Middle Tennessee? In this wide-ranging episode, host Jim sits down with business coach Craig Whipperman of Music City ActionCOACH for a candid conversation on how businesses grow, break, and reinvent themselves—and what that means for everyday owners and solopreneurs.

Together, they trace Craig’s unconventional path from engineering and accounting to auditing NASA contractors, then into the exploding wireless and cell tower industry, where he helped Crown Castle grow from hundreds to thousands of towers and employees. Craig shares what it’s really like to “build the plane while flying it,” how culture gets stretched and diluted at scale, and why he ultimately left a public company to help business owners one-on-one.

The episode dives into the mindset shift from employee to owner, the limits of traditional education, and why coaching, mentoring, and “guru culture” are not the same thing. Jim and Craig explore how AI, automation, and economic cycles are reshaping work, why trades and entrepreneurship are on the rise, and how faith, perspective, and continuous learning can turn crises into solvable problems. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about disguised cell towers, economic “pendulums,” George Carlin, and why the next generation may be the most cynical yet—and maybe that’s not all bad.

Episode Highlights:

How Craig went from space‑shuttle audit work to managing cell tower networks and obstruction lighting
What it means to “build the plane while flying it” inside a fast-growing public company
How rapid growth can transform—and sometimes fracture—company culture
The difference between owning a job and owning a true business
Why college often trains “obedient workers,” not owners and builders
How ActionCOACH and “business re‑education” help fill the gaps schools don’t cover
Coaching vs courses: real mentoring and questions vs one‑size‑fits‑all “guru” programs
Why AI and automation may hit white‑collar work like NAFTA hit manufacturing
The coming shortage in the trades and why many hands‑on jobs are more AI‑resistant
Economic and cultural cycles: insights from Ray Dalio, The Fourth Turning, and Pendulum
Social media, deepfakes, and the rise of a highly skeptical, disillusioned generation
Immigration, struggle, and what happens to a society that’s had it “too good for too long”
Craig’s “there is no crisis” philosophy—and how systems, preparation, and faith support it
Why continuous learning matters: “When you’re green, you grow. When you’re ripe, you rot.”
Where to find Craig online and why Jim wants him to get his own podcast going again
Whether you’re a small business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply rethinking your career in a changing world, you’ll find perspective, practical insight, and a reminder that growth, resilience, and good questions never go out of style. Listen, share, and be part of the conversation.

_____________________________________________________________________
****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos
__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________
If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!
https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668
___________________________________________________________
***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:
https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip
_________________________________________________________________
The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:
Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org
______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co

Podcast Episode Title: "A Human Touch in Music”

Show Description: How is artificial intelligence changing the face of songwriting—and what does it mean for artists, songwriters, and music fans across Middle Tennessee and beyond? In this thought-provoking episode, host Jim sits down with acclaimed songwriter Regie Hamm for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on the rapid evolution of the music business.

Together, they explore the difference between a “hit” song and a “great” song, how AI models like Suno are disrupting the industry, and why authenticity and imperfection still matter. The episode dives into the challenges independent artists face, the changing economics of streaming, the power of direct-to-fan connection, and the legacy songwriters hope to leave. Regie shares insights from decades in Nashville, personal stories of resilience in the creative life, and the importance of storytelling in music.

Plus, discover details about Regie’s latest project, "Beautiful Tragedy," his Kickstarter campaign, and why the human element in music will never go out of style. Stay tuned for honest takes, laughs, and a celebration of the enduring craft of songwriting.

Episode Highlights:

When songwriting became “all about dopamine hits”—and what AI gets right and wrong
Can technology ever replace the personal stories behind great songs?
Why live music and “certified human” bands may have a renaissance
The untold financial realities behind streaming and record deals
Personal tales of adaptation, resilience, and legacy from Nashville pros
Supporting indie projects: Regie’s “Beautiful Tragedy” Kickstarter and more

Whether you’re a longtime fan, an aspiring songwriter, or simply curious about where the industry is headed, you’ll find inspiration, insight, and a reminder that authentic stories never go out of style. Listen, share, and be part of the conversation.

Follow Regie:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/562389442/regie-hamm-beautiful-tragedy-project/community

Jim's dad's memorial video as mentioned in the podcast: https://youtu.be/XdRH-i5wt6A?si=z_GTgKIdHT6L7ARf
_____________________________________________________________________
****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos
__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________
If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!
https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668
___________________________________________________________
***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:
https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip
_________________________________________________________________
The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:
Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org
______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co

Podcast Episode Title:
“Navigating the Shifting Landscape w/ Tessa Tubbs”

Show Description:
In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host and guests gather at the Tremont Mansion during TEDx Old Hickory for an insightful conversation with leadership expert Tessa Tubbs. Explore the life transitions from snowy New York to Dallas, shifting generational values in the workplace, and what it takes to lead (and follow) in an era defined by change and technology. Tessa shares her personal journey, leadership philosophy, and practical tips on developing self-awareness and adaptability.

Episode Highlights:
The importance of followership and why not everyone needs to be a leader

Changing expectations across generations: from Boomers to Gen Z and beyond

The evolving value of vocational training versus college degrees

How technology and AI are reshaping career paths and required skills

Tessa Tubbs’ three core leadership competencies: strategy, execution, influence—and the foundation of self-awareness

Tips on preparing for high-stakes talks by leveraging visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning

The power of empathy and authenticity in modern leadership and content creation

Honest advice for young professionals and parents navigating career and life pressures

Whether you’re interested in authentic leadership, AI-proofing your career, or understanding the multi-generational workforce, this episode offers valuable takeaways for business professionals and aspiring leaders alike.

Follow Tessa:
https://tessatubbs.com/about-us/

_____________________________________________________________________
****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos
__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________
If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!
https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668
___________________________________________________________
***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:
https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip
_________________________________________________________________
The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:
Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org
______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co

Podcast Episode Title: "Pinning Down Success"

Show Description: In this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with Michael Hatcher, a dynamic entrepreneur who seamlessly blends his passion for wrestling with a thriving custom apparel business. Michael shares his unique journey from collegiate wrestler to wrestling coach and business owner, revealing how his experiences on the mat have shaped his approach to life and entrepreneurship.

Episode Highlights:

From Iowa Wrestling Mat to Tennessee Business Owner

Building Custom Community: A T-Shirt Empire Born from Passion

The Art of Balancing Wrestling Coaching and Entrepreneurship

Life Lessons Learned Through Wrestling: "Once You've Wrestled, Everything is Easier"

Navigating Business with Flexibility and Purpose

Creating Quality Apparel and Impactful Wrestling Programs

Discover how Michael Hatcher turns his love for wrestling into a successful business, while maintaining a philosophy of personal growth, community impact, and continuous learning. Whether you're an entrepreneur, athlete, or simply curious about unique business stories, this episode offers inspiration and insights into building a life and career on your own terms.

Follow Michael:

https://www.facebook.com/share/1KU2zZwp6r/?mibextid=wwXIfr

_____________________________________________________________________

****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos

__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________

If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!

https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668

___________________________________________________________

***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:

https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip

_________________________________________________________________

The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:

Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org

______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co

Podcast Episode Title:
From Exotic Cars to Canines w/ Ali Hemyari

Show Description:
In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, the host dives into an inspiring conversation with Ali Hemyari—a dynamic entrepreneur, pilot, police officer, author, and founder of Nashville K-9, one of the nation’s largest dog training facilities. Ali shares his unique path from building an exotic car brokerage as a college student to scaling businesses organically based on market needs.

Episode highlights:
Ali’s early ventures in high-end car brokerage and advertising while still in college

The founding and growth of Nashville K-9, including breaking into law enforcement and celebrity clients

The organic creation of multiple businesses—ranging from online canine training resources to aviation and tech solutions for pet resorts

Insights on entrepreneurship: grit, risk-taking, learning from failure, and why true success is built on passion and adaptability

A discussion about business culture, customer service, and the importance of giving back to the community

The value of authenticity amidst today’s social media “success” narratives and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

Tune in for actionable lessons, memorable stories, and a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit shaping Middle Tennessee and beyond!

Follow Ali:
https://nashvillek9.com/

_____________________________________________________________________
****SUBSCRIBE/RATE/FOLLOW the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast:

www.mmtbp.com

www.instagram.com/mostlymiddletnbusinespodcast

www.instagram.com/jimmccarthyvos

Tiktok: @jimmccarthyvos
__________________________________________________________

Shoutout to Matt Wilson for lending his voice to the new intro of MMTBP.

Follow him and his podcast from which I may have borrowed the *mostly* concept:

https://linktr.ee/mamwmw

___________________________________________________________
If you like Jim's Boston Scallys, click here to shop and order yours!
https://www.bostonscally.com/a/refer-a-friend/redeem/mqgpwi3u0zgm89vaxnv5crzvlolevo82rvcygsn5/1668
___________________________________________________________
***You hear Jim mention it on almost every episode, ME vs. WE and how 2023 will be 1943 all over again….order “PENDULUM:How Past Generations Shape Our Present and Predict Our Future”:
https://a.co/d/7oKK7Ip
_________________________________________________________________
The co-author of Pendulum wrote a myriad of other books and started a non-profit 21st Century Non-Traditional Business School that you should really check out:
Wizard Academy - www.wizardacademy.org
______________________________________________________________________

Curious about podcasting? This podcast (and many others) is produced by www.itsyourshow.co