The Art of Storytelling

The Art of Storytelling

Lee Hunsaker is the founder of Hoot and Holler Stories, a sold out weekly story telling performance where she coaches normal people to tell their stories in front of a live audience. It started with 8 people in a living room and has grown into a live performance with adoring crowds. It's packed with honesty, empathy, the challenges, and the transformational power of sharing stories.

Homelessness in Bristol

There's a lot of conversation around increasing homelessness, and today's episode is with Major Brooks Gilliam of the Salvation Army. Brooks provides a valuable perspective from the front lines, where his organization houses nearly 1,000 unique individuals every year in Bristol. He dispels many myths, clarifies the real problems, and offers insights into how Bristol might solve this important problem.

Coaching Leaders and Building Cultures

An extraordinary leader who happens to be a youth volleyball coach, Dale Casey shares what she's learned about building confidence, developing leaders, building culture, and creating healthy environments. Her honesty on how her own leadership style has evolved is both instructive and inspiring. I learned so much about the game and how she's doing so much more than just coaching volleyball.

Leading King University

Dr. Andy Tooley, the new president of King University, shares his approach to leadership along with the opportunities and challenges of leading a university. Dr. Tooley draws on his experience in leadership at Belmont University, one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, and how he's building a unique vision for King.

The Amazing Story of Isaiah 117 House

Author and founder of Isaiah 117 House, a national non-profit network of houses built to transform one of the most traumatic days of a child's life, the day foster care begins.

From cleverly tricking her husband into foster care classes in rural Carter County to building houses around the country to ensure kids are surrounded by love and hope on "removal day". Ronda's story is about leadership, the unbridled power of a small community, and changing the trajectory of children's lives throughout the country. 

Hollywood Actor to Tennessee Real Estate Mogul

Derk Cheetwood, Hollywood Actor to Tennessee Real Estate Mogul. Derk Cheetwood on becoming a professional actor, losing out to Matthew McConaughey for a part then later working together, life on major sets like The Postman, numerous television shows including 90210, and a long run as Max Giambetti on General Hospital. Derk describes moving to Tennessee, starting over, and reinventing himself into a successful real estate developer with a New Again Houses franchise. 

The Culture of Excellence at Tennessee High

In this episode, Matt engages in an insightful conversation with Kim Kirk, the award-winning Principal of the Year in the East Region.

The discussion highlights the beautiful architecture and nurturing culture of Tennessee High, underscoring the role of community involvement and the collective effort to maintain educational standards. 

Inside Healing Hands: Leadership and Community Outreach

In this episode, Helen Scott, the long-time Executive Director of Healing Hands Health Center, shares her journey from growing up in Bristol to leading one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations in the area.

From Tennis Player to Pickleball Pro

Rob Nunnery shares his remarkable journey from tennis to becoming a professional pickleball athlete. He delves into his competitive childhood, playing college tennis, initial struggles, and the discovery of pickleball.

Tune in to learn how Rob leveraged his tennis background to excel in pickleball, focusing on strategy and intelligent play over physical size.

Building a Musical Legacy in Bristol

Leah Ross shares her journey and the growth of the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Festival.

A Bold Approach to At-Risk Students

Kelly Vance dives into the inspiring efforts of Viking Academy, a groundbreaking alternative education program in Bristol, Tennessee.

Developing Excellence In Leadership

John Wright tells his own story of the decisions and mindset that led him to break a generational cycle of low expectations to become a business leader and coach.

A Career In Building Relationships

Mark Pate discusses his professional career in acquisitions and how he chose to step away to pursue teaching and founding Alta Capital, a 24 million dollar private lending tund.

Standup Comedy and Entrepreneurship

Shawn and Sarah Carter talk standup comedy and the unpredictable journey that led them to open a comedy club together in the small town of Bristol, TN.

Originally from Boston, this couple played a huge part in bringing comedy as a new form of entertainment to the Tri-Cities area in East TN.

On Leadership

Join Jim Powell as he unravels the secrets to effective leadership.

4-Time National Championship College Soccer Coach’s Perspectve on Youth Sports: with Matt Yelton

Matt Yelton, 4-time national championship college soccer coach, discusses his perspective on youth sports, the growth of the game, and coaching.

The Challenges of Real Estate Investing and Hard Money Lending

In an engaging conversation covering the dynamic world of real estate financing, host Matt Lavinder welcomes Derik Young to discuss the nuances of real estate investment lending and the critical role lenders like Vontive play in the real estate ecosystem.

Former corporate professional transitions to flipping houses: Erica Vasquez’s Story

Join us in exploring the inspiring journey of Erica Vasquez, originally from Chicago. With experience in corporate supply chain and customer service, Erica has shifted her focus to real estate investment and house flipping. We'll delve into her competitive nature shaped by her passion for volleyball and family influence, highlighting her seamless transition to a new professional endeavor driven by passion and determination.

From Sales Expert to Real Estate Broker: Alex DeLaRosa’s Story

Get ready to meet Alex DeLaRosa, a New Yorker celebrating his 30th anniversary in 2023. With diverse sales experience, he's now a licensed Real Estate Broker in Florida, eager to explore real estate investment while enjoying a life of travel and adventure.

Empowering Communities: The Lentz Real Estate Journey

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Ryan and Katy Lentz, franchise owners of New Again Houses in Spartanburg, SC. Discover their journey in creating a thriving real estate franchise business and positively impacting communities through home renovations.

From Non-Profit to Real Estate Entrepreneur: Phil Dunbar's Journey

Get inspired by Phil, an experienced general contractor who took his business to new heights with a New Again franchise. His exceptional customer service, communication, and leadership skills drive business growth.