About the Guests:

Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt are the dynamic duo behind Jenny Lea Academy and Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa in Johnson City, Tennessee. Terry Kazmier, originally from Washington, DC, is a Milligan College graduate with a degree in accounting and a former pharmaceutical rep. She transitioned into the beauty industry with a focus on spas. Chenoa Pruitt, a licensed esthetician and a graduate of Jenny Lea, has a strong management background and a passion for the skincare aspect of the beauty industry. Together, they are devoted to expanding educational opportunities in aesthetics and building successful beauty businesses.

Episode Summary:

In this riveting episode, Colin Johnson sits down with Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt from Jenny Lea Academy and Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa. The conversation kicks off with a warm introduction to the lovely guests who bring their unique journeys and professional backgrounds to light. Terry and Chenoa share their affection for Johnson City and delve into their respective paths that led them to take on leadership roles in the beauty and wellness industry.

The episode explores the core of Jenny Lea Academy's educational ethos and the expansive services offered at Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa. Through engaging narratives, Terry and Chenoa highlight the importance of accessibility, innovative business models, and comprehensive training programs tailored to the beauty industry. They fervently discuss the lucrative opportunities available for graduates and underscore the misconception surrounding beauty trades versus traditional college degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• Accessibility & Community: Terry emphasizes the ease of access and community-driven support in Johnson City, making it an ideal location for business growth and personal fulfillment.
• Holistic Education: Jenny Lea Academy provides extensive training programs in cosmetology, aesthetics, barbering, and nail technology, ensuring students receive hands-on experience and are job-ready upon graduation.
• Economic Viability: The beauty industry offers significant financial rewards, with graduates often starting out earning between $40,000 to $60,000 annually, emphasizing the strong return on investment.
• Growth & Expansion: Both Terry and Chenoa express aspirations of expanding Jenny Lea Academy to new locations, aiming to increase educational opportunities and support more students in the trade.
• Mentorship & Influence: The conversation sheds light on the profound impact of mentors and community support in achieving entrepreneurial success.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I love the accessibility of Johnson City. Someone knows somebody and can do an introduction. It's like one degree of separation.” - Terry Kazmier
2. "The road to college is not for everyone. You can come out with a 4-year degree and not make that kind of money at all." - Terry Kazmier
3. "I was always managing people, working with people. I knew that was my thing, and it’s why I wanted to own my own business.” - Chenoa Pruitt
4. "For every esthetician we employ at Sugar Mama, it affects our bottom line." - Terry Kazmier
5. "We are not putting out a hobby job; this is a career where you can buy houses, buy cars, and affect the economy." - Terry Kazmier

Resources:

• Sugar Mama Waxing and Spa
• Jenny Lea Academy (contact via phone for services and tours)

For full insights into the compelling journey of Terry Kazmier and Chenoa Pruitt, and to grasp the scope of opportunities within the beauty education sector, tune into this enlightening episode. Stay updated with future episodes that continue to showcase inspiring stories and practical knowledge to fuel your entrepreneurial spirit.

About the Guest:

Craig Charles is the entrepreneurial force behind Crown Cutz Academy, having established a significant presence in the barbering and beauty education industry. With a Caribbean background and a journey that took him from Boston to East Tennessee State on a football scholarship, Craig's passion for cutting hair began at an early age. After a stint in NFL football with the San Francisco 49ers, Craig pivoted back to his barbering roots, starting his own business in Johnson City in 2004. Craig's dedication to the craft extended to founding barbering schools and becoming an advocate for mental health training, positioning him as a notable figure both locally and nationally.

Episode Summary:

In this exchange, Colin Johnson warmly welcomes Craig Charles to his podcast, where listeners are invited to discover the multifaceted trajectory of a former NFL player turned barber and educator. The episode opens on a sunny day in Johnson City, setting a relaxed tone for an in-depth look at Craig's contributions to the community, including the inception of Crown Cutz Academy.

Delving into Craig's background, we learn about his start in barbering, his dedication to improving mental health awareness, and his recognition by the state of Tennessee. The conversation flows effortlessly, covering Craig's journey from cutting hair in his youth to addressing mental health in his current work. Social initiatives like training women in jail to become nail technicians are also highlighted. In weaving these narratives, key insights are shared about the importance of living your passion, community involvement, and crafting a fulfilling career path.

Key Takeaways:

• Craig Charles' journey from the NFL to becoming a barber and business owner illustrates the value of transforming passions into professions.
• Crown Cutz Academy isn't just about teaching barbering — it's focused on mentoring students in financial literacy, mental health, and holistic life skills.
• Craig actively volunteers, providing valuable resources and mentorship to the incarcerated community — a testament to his commitment to societal change.
• The success of Crown Cutz Academy has led to the extension of services in the Tri-Cities area and ambitions to open schools in Asheville and Boston.
• A planned tour focused on mental health training showcases Craig's dedication to expand the positive impacts of his industry beyond the salon.

Notable Quotes:

• "If I just teach you how to be a barber, I have done you a diservice. I want you to be a whole person."
• "From a pair of clippers to Capitol Hill, anything could happen."
• "Take your time. Everything happens in time. If you trust your product and you cultivate it, it's going to do you well."
• "You don't have to be alone in this world. There are a lot of people who love you and you don't even know."

Resources:

• Craig Charles' Academy: Crown Cutz Academy ([Website not provided in transcript])
• Podcast: Barber College Success ([Podcast not provided in transcript])
• Mental Health Hotline: 988, the national hotline for suicide prevention
• Event: Reggae Wine and Shine in collaboration with Tennessee Hills Distillery

Encouraged by Craig Charles' engaging story and insights? Dive into the full episode to learn more about his remarkable transition from the gridiron to grooming, his community-driven initiatives, and his contagious enthusiasm for life in Johnson dynamics. Stay tuned for more inspiring content that sheds light on the threads that bind our community together.

About the Guest:

Jonathan Fields is a dynamic marketing strategist and creative advocate based in Johnson City, Tennessee. Known for his versatile skill-set, Jonathan has built a career around guiding small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs in crafting their narratives and finding the best channels for their messages. His approach to marketing is deeply rooted in relational selling, offering customized solutions rather than one-size-fits-all strategies. Besides being a marketing professional, Jonathan is also deeply involved in his community, helping forge connections and foster growth.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson sits down with Jonathan Fields, a marketing strategist and creative advocate, to delve into the world of storytelling and small business marketing. This dialogue unfolds against the backdrop of the picturesque Johnson City, with the discussion highlighting the importance of community and relational connections in marketing, all while offering practical insights into the trade.

Jonathan Fields shares his journey from growing up in Kingsport to becoming a marketing expert who now calls Johnson City home. His marketing philosophy centers on helping clients tell their unique stories to stand out in a crowded market space. The conversation covers everything from the basics of brand awareness to the intricacies of targeting the right audience. Fields touches on the significance of connecting individuals and businesses and discusses his upcoming opportunity as a speaker at TEDx Johnson City.

Key Takeaways:

• Relational Selling: Effective marketing is about building relationships and understanding the specific stories and needs of clients.
• Brand Awareness Importance: Continual brand awareness campaigns are vital for businesses to maintain a consistent presence and build trust with potential customers.
• Video Production in Marketing: High-quality video production is crucial for brand narratives, enabling businesses to communicate their unique value proposition effectively.
• Challenges of Gaining Trust: One of the major hurdles in marketing is gaining the trust of long-standing businesses reluctant to modernize their marketing approaches.
• Future Endeavors: Jonathan Fields is set to speak at TEDx Johnson City, discussing topics central to community and relationships in Appalachia.

Notable Quotes:

• "The important thing is to be able to meet small businesses, nonprofits, anything around the area that has a story to tell."
• "My clients, that's what all of us do, is we look to find answers for our problems."
• "And the only way you get to know that is to relationally, you get to know the client, you know, what's important to them…"
• "I rewrote it. What do you think about this? Being able to kind of best find, hey, I know you talked to me and you said these things are important. I know your voice."
• "The most useful way to use any of those avenues is to be able to tell what is unique to you."

Resources:

• Jonathan Fields' LinkedIn: Reachable for professional connections and inquiries.
• @jonathanfieldsofficial on Instagram: For insights and updates from Jonathan Fields.

Encourage your entrepreneurial spirit and harness the power of effective marketing by listening to the full episode, featuring the insights of Jonathan Fields. Stay tuned for more inspiring content that can shed light on the paths to success in business and beyond.

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!