About the Guest:

Josh Cook is a former police officer and the founder of Enter the Lion, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to supporting first responders and military personnel. After experiencing personal struggles with trauma while working as a police officer, Josh was inspired to create a community that offers spiritual and emotional support to others in similar positions. He now focuses full-time on this ministry, running retreats and programs aimed at healing and equipping those in service fields. Josh is also pursuing a degree in counseling to further enhance the support he offers through Enter the Lion.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode, Colin Johnson welcomes Josh Cook, the founder of Enter the Lion, to the Johnson City Living podcast. Despite the frigid winter weather, they delve into Josh's inspiring journey from being a police officer in Maryland to leading a nonprofit ministry based in Johnson City focused on supporting first responders and military personnel. With a focus on healing and faith, Josh shares the motivation behind his transition and the events that spurred the establishment of Enter the Lion, a nonprofit organization that helps service members with their mental and spiritual health through retreats and community support.

Colin and Josh explore the nuances of hearing the calling of God and the steps of obedience that led Josh to move to Johnson City and start the ministry. Josh highlights the unique challenges that come with trauma experienced in law enforcement and service roles, emphasizing the importance of community and faith in overcoming such hurdles. The episode touches on Josh's personal experience with trauma, the community built around Enter the Lion, and the life-changing impact it has on participants. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the call for supporting first responders through prayer and participation in local ministries.

Key Takeaways:

• Josh Cook transitioned from a fulfilling career in law enforcement to establish Enter the Lion, a ministry aimed at helping first responders cope with trauma.
• The organization's name embodies their mission of encouraging service members to embrace their calling with courage and boldness.
• Enter the Lion offers free retreats across the country, providing spiritual support and community to first responders and military personnel in need.
• Josh is furthering his understanding of trauma and healing by pursuing a degree in counseling, which complements his ministry work.
• Community support, through prayer and resources, plays a crucial role in sustaining the ministry and helping it reach more individuals.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The Lord would ask us to be obedient and just submit to him, and then he would reveal kind of the next piece."
2. "Because Christ died on the cross and was resurrected, he defeated our greatest enemy, which is death."
3. "My husband's come home a different man. He's come home a different dad."
4. "Every time you say yes to something, you say no to something else."
5. "It's not my job to reach the nation, and I never will. But I can reach a few people for sure, and they can reach people."

Resources:

• Enter the Lion Website
• Enter the Lion on Social Media: Search for "Enter the Lion" for more information and engagement opportunities.

Encourage listeners to tune into the full episode for a comprehensive insight into Josh Cook’s impactful journey and the transformative work of Enter the Lion. Stay tuned for future episodes bringing more inspiring stories and discussions.

Sentimental Journeys and Downtown Antiques: An Interview with Cam McAllister

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson speaks with Cam McAllister, the proud owner of Sentimental Journey Antiques, a massive 21,000 square foot antique store located in downtown Johnson City. Cam shares the sentimental story behind the store's name, its rich family history, and the journey of opening a new business amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. They delve into the vibrant community atmosphere of Johnson City, the upcoming store opening, and plans for a grand opening event. Cam passionately discusses his love for antiques, the importance of mental health, and his commitment to supporting small businesses. Tune in to learn more about this exciting new addition to downtown Johnson City and the inspiring story behind it.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:38 Favorite Thing About Johnson City
01:21 The Story Behind Sentimental Journey Antiques
03:51 Challenges and Progress
07:06 Opening and Vendor Opportunities
12:52 Personal Background and Influences
18:00 Jose and the Support System
18:16 Business Challenges and Upgrades
19:07 Booth Pricing and Customization
21:19 Day Jobs and Work Ethic
23:30 Johnson City and Personal Growth
25:02 Overcoming Anxiety and Promoting Mental Health
27:40 Podcasting Journey and Community Connection
33:04 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

About the Guest:

Gary Ellis is a dedicated coffee roaster and entrepreneur with four years of experience in the coffee industry. He started roasting coffee from his porch with a simple setup and has grown his passion into a successful business. Gary is passionate about hospitality and loves serving others through his coffee ventures. Previously, he was associated with Summit Leadership.

Tyler Mackie has a diverse professional background with 20 years of experience in insurance and financial services. He sold his agency in 2019 and transitioned to working with C12, where he focuses on executive development for Christian business owners and CEOs. Tyler has a calling to create spaces for community and has joined Gary in their coffee venture to realize this vision.

Episode Summary:

In this energizing episode, host Colin Johnson is joined by coffee aficionados Gary Ellis and Tyler Mackie to usher in the New Year with inspiring entrepreneurial stories and visions. Taking the audience back to the grassroots of his coffee journey, Gary discusses the modest beginnings from his front porch setup to a growing business in the coffee roasting scene. Meanwhile, Tyler shares his zeal for fostering community through coffee, applying lessons from his rich career in insurance and executive development to their joint venture.

Throughout the conversation, listeners are treated to Gary and Tyler's shared enthusiasm for creating a welcoming, high-quality coffee experience at Open Doors Coffee House, a well-loved local coffee spot they recently acquired. The duo dive deep into their entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing their commitment to quality, community engagement, and ethical business practices. SEO keywords such as "coffee roasting," "community business," and "entrepreneurial journey" are woven through the insightful episode, highlighting the importance of passion and vision in business. As both guests candidly discuss their aspirations for Open Doors, including potential expansion and fostering strong connections with patrons, the episode becomes a testament to the power of community-driven business models.

Key Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurial Vision: Gary and Tyler embody the spirit of entrepreneurship, drawing on their varied experiences to drive their coffee business forward, fostering community and hospitality.
• Commitment to Quality: The meticulous approach to coffee roasting and ethical sourcing reflects their dedication to offering exceptional products and preserving the integrity of their business.
• Community Focus: The core mission of Open Doors Coffee House is to serve as a gathering place for community interaction, encouraging deep conversations and memorable experiences.
• Collaborative Growth: Gary and Tyler highlight the importance of collaboration and shared vision in building their business, aiming to expand and impact more people with their coffee.
• Authentic Connections: The episode emphasizes creating genuine connections with customers and employees, nurturing an environment of trust and excellence.

Notable Quotes:

1. "There's something sacred about a coffee shop. The conversations, the gathering place in the community." – Tyler Mackie
2. "The better the coffee, the more it seemed like the Lord gave me a knack for it." – Gary Ellis
3. "You don't know what bad things you thirst for until you go into a desert and you're thirsty and you're looking for everything to drink." – Gary Ellis
4. "Slow down, enjoy the cup, and the people you're enjoying it with." – Tyler Mackie
5. "Seeing people into where they're gifted, that's kind of the thing that excites me." – Gary Ellis

Resources:

• Open Doors Coffee House: Explore more about their coffee offerings and community space online.
• Gary Ellis on Social Media: Engage with Gary and learn more about his coffee journey.
• C12 Group: Learn about Tyler Mackie's work with executive development.
• Book Reference: Unreasonable Hospitality – A recommended read mentioned during the episode.
• Social Media: Gary Ellis and Tyler Mackie’s presence on Facebook and Instagram for updates and community engagement.

For an inspiring deep dive into the world of coffee, community, and entrepreneurial passion, make sure to listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enriching conversations and insights from the podcast series!

About the Guest:

Dr. K. T. Moyer is the founder and leading physical therapist of Homefront Physical Therapy, based in Johnson City. With a background originating from Cleveland, Ohio, and an educational journey through ETSU, K. T. transitioned from city living to embracing the outdoorsy lifestyle of Johnson City. Her professional expertise spans over 13 years, specializing in musculoskeletal issues, and she holds certifications in McKenzie therapy and dry needling. K. T. is also noted for pioneering concierge physical therapy services, integrating personalized care by providing in-home services, and expanding into massage therapy offerings.

Episode Summary:

This dynamic episode introduces Dr. K. T. Moyer of Homefront Physical Therapy, highlighting the innovative ways she merges her love for patient care with her passion for tackling healthcare inefficiencies. K. T. sheds light on her journey from Cleveland to establishing her practice in Johnson City and how her city roots impacted her transition to a more outdoor-oriented lifestyle. This enriching discussion presents a mix of K. T.’s professional insights and personal anecdotes, giving listeners a comprehensive view of her philosophy in healthcare and life.

The conversation centers around K. T.’s entrepreneurial journey in physical therapy, detailing her transition to a concierge model that provides personalized care right at the patient's home. K. T. shares her thoughts on the inadequacies of traditional healthcare systems, the advantages of scheduling flexibility, and the reasons behind her decision to operate beyond network insurance systems. By offering both physical therapy and massage therapy, Homefront Personal Therapy provides holistic approaches to wellness. The episode also explores engaging themes like the benefits of various therapeutic methods, the importance of community networking, and the need for a holistic approach to health care, echoing her hopes for future expansions that focus on patient-centered care.

Key Takeaways:

• K. T. Moyer integrates concierge services in physical therapy, blending personalized patient experiences with high-quality care right at home.
• Homefront Physical Therapy ventures beyond standard methods by not accepting insurance and focusing on superior, affordable services.
• K. T.’s expertise includes McKenzie therapy, specialized in diagnosing and treating neck and back pain by targeting root causes rather than symptoms.
• The holistic approach and community-based networking are integral elements in Homefront's mission to transform healthcare perceptions.
• Innovatively combining dry needling with massage therapy offers an all-inclusive healing process for various physical ailments.

Notable Quotes:

• "The way I treat, I really dive into, like, the mechanics and the root cause of what's going on."
• "If you help enough people get what they want, you’ll get what you want."
• "I wanted to make sure that a, I can still provide a living for myself but also like I'm accessible."
• "Don't forget to ask God. After all, he is a manufacturer."
• "Our backs love to move. That's when you're going to be the healthiest, the strongest."

Resources:

• Homefront Physical Therapy Website
• Social Media: @DrConciergePT on Facebook and Instagram

Immerse yourself in this enlightening episode to discover more about K. T.’s path to revolutionizing physical therapy with personalized care. Stay tuned to indulge in more insightful conversations on health, wellness, and innovative business practices in upcoming episodes.

About the Guest:

Laura Kelly is a dedicated leader in the nonprofit housing sector, currently serving as an integral part of Holston Habitat for Humanity. With a rich professional history, including eight years at the Appalachia Service Project, Laura brings deep expertise in housing development and policy advocacy. Her work focuses on creating affordable housing solutions and fostering community development. She is actively involved in civic life, contributing to Johnson City's Planning Commission, where she helps shape the city’s strategic growth plans.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the podcast, Colin Johnson sits down with Laura Kelly to delve into the inspiring world of Habitat for Humanity and her impactful role within the organization. As they navigate through the nuances of housing challenges and opportunities, Laura shares her journey and passion for serving the community. Listeners gain insight into the strategic efforts of Holston Habitat for Humanity to address housing needs in the Tri-Cities area, unveiling upcoming projects like the new residential neighborhood development.

The conversation also covers Laura's background, her career progression from ASP to Habitat, and her active role in the Johnson City Planning Commission. Discussing these roles, Laura highlights the community's involvement in urban development and the importance of proactive planning for sustainable growth. With a unique blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, the episode sheds light on the power of collaborative efforts in addressing systemic housing issues, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how nonprofits can lead socioeconomic change.

Key Takeaways:

• Affordable Housing Advocacy: Laura Kelly emphasizes the critical role of Habitat for Humanity in providing zero-interest mortgages to working-class families, enabling their journey to homeownership.
• Community-Centric Development: The episode highlights the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in developing new housing areas, such as the upcoming residential neighborhood in Johnson City.
• Personal and Professional Growth: Laura shares her experiences and the influential mentors who have shaped her career in the nonprofit housing industry.
• Proactive Urban Planning: As a member of the Planning Commission, Laura discusses the Horizon 2045 plan aimed at managing Johnson City's strategic growth and preserving cultural integrity.
• Importance of Volunteering: The discussion underscores the personal and communal benefits of volunteering, showcasing how individual contributions can lead to meaningful societal impacts.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Our mission is to put God's love into action by building homes, communities, and hope."
2. "Volunteering is so personally satisfying…you think, 'I gave a kid a bedroom and that's so tangible.'"
3. "We have strong churches in this area truly walking the walk and making a difference."
4. "I'm really interested in planning and policy…we have a chance to shape our region's future."
5. "Everybody deserves a shot at having a safe place to live."

Resources:

• Holston Habitat for Humanity
• Laura Kelly's Projects and Initiatives at Holston Habitat for Humanity
• Johnson City Planning Commission and Horizon 2045 Growth Management Plan

Listeners are encouraged to explore these resources for more detailed information on topics discussed in the episode. Tune in to the full episode to experience these rich discussions and stay tuned for more insightful episodes from the podcast series.

About the Guest:

Jesus Rodriguez is the founder of Coyote Tactical Solutions, a company specializing in manufacturing tactical gear. Originally hailing from South Florida, Jesus moved to the more serene environment of Johnson City to pursue a lifestyle that supports his family's homesteading aspirations. With a professional background that spans nursing and architecture, and experience in the film and video game industry, Jesus has leveraged his diverse skills to design and produce high-quality tactical products. His unique journey includes a strong interest in medical training and preparedness, which inspired him to enter the tactical gear manufacturing sector.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, host Colin Johnson converses with Jesus Rodriguez, founder of Coyote Tactical Solutions, about his transition from a career in nursing to leading an innovative company in tactical gear manufacturing. As they delve into Jesus's multifaceted background, listeners will grasp the significant challenges and triumphs he's faced along the way. With Christmas approaching, the atmosphere is congenially festive as they discuss everything from the essentials of tactical gear to living in Johnson City.

Jesus elaborates on his journey from South Florida to Tennessee, emphasizing the importance of affordability and seasons in choosing a new home. His company, Coyote Tactical Solutions, stands out by offering durable and essential tactical accessories such as medical pouches and plate carriers. He highlights the importance of having a medical kit not just for tactical use but also for everyday emergencies, a reflection of his background in healthcare and commitment to safety and preparedness. Through their engaging dialogue, Colin and Jesus touch on broader topics like the influence of technology, market challenges over recent years, and the ethical responsibilities associated with carrying firearms.

Key Takeaways:

• From Vision to Reality: Jesus Rodriguez navigated a diverse career path, eventually founding Coyote Tactical Solutions to bring his design ideas to life.
• Strategic Relocation: The move from South Florida to Johnson City allowed Jesus's family to enjoy a more affordable and picturesque lifestyle.
• Business Challenges and Adaptations: The tactical gear industry has faced significant challenges over recent years, influenced by supply chain issues and broader economic factors.
• Importance of Preparedness: Beyond selling tactical gear, Jesus emphasizes the necessity of having a proper medical kit for emergency situations.
• Ethical Reflections on Defense: Jesus reflects on the responsibilities involved in carrying weapons and the importance of life-preserving skills.

Notable Quotes:

• "I've always been just kind of my own lone person."
• "I'd rather have and not need, than need and not have."
• "Bleeding is the number one cause of death that you can actually prevent."
• "I love designing—I wish I could just design and not have to do business."

Resources:

• Coyote Tactical Solutions Website: coyotetacticalsolutions.com

For listeners intrigued by the creative fusion of skills and industries or those interested in the practical aspects of tactical preparedness, this episode promises a wealth of insights. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Jesus Rodriguez's journey and the enriching possibilities his products bring to those seeking a functional and prepared lifestyle. Stay connected with the podcast for more enlightening discussions and expert insights.

About the Guest:

Nathan Brand is a seasoned culinary expert and entrepreneur known for his transformative contributions to the restaurant industry. As a former chef and partner at the renowned Timber! restaurant, Nathan has established himself as a figure of innovation in modern dining. Currently, he embarks on a new business venture, launching a retail food and wine shop focusing on charcuterie, cheeses, wines, and gourmet products. His commitment to sourcing quality ingredients and offering unique gastronomic experiences underscores his reputation as a pioneer in the local culinary landscape.

Episode Summary:

Join Colin Johnson as he sits down with Nathan Brand for an engaging discussion about culinary passions, entrepreneurship, and creating a balance between work and family. In this enlightening episode, Nathan returns to the podcast to share insights about his new venture—a retail food and wine store that aims to bring gourmet experiences to Johnson City. Throughout the conversation, Nathan reveals his journey from being a partner at Timber to stepping into the world of retail with a focus on specialized, regional products like Benton's ham, unique cheeses, and natural wines, catering to discerning palates.

In exploring his motivations, Nathan speaks about his new business as a returning guest on the Colin and Carly Group show. He discusses the inspiration behind his concept, touching upon the scarcity of certain high-quality products in Johnson City and his desire to make gourmet flavors accessible to the local community. The episode dives into how Nathan's background as a chef and restaurateur fuels his pursuit of innovation in the food industry. From sourcing premium ingredients to creating a space for culinary exploration, Nathan's new endeavor reflects his passion and expertise in delivering exceptional dining experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Shifting Career Paths: Nathan Brand moves from the restaurant industry to launching a food and wine retail venture.
• Regional Product Focus: The shop will spotlight regional gourmet products such as Benton's ham and North Carolina cheeses.
• Culinary Exploration: Nathan aims to make gourmet products and natural wines accessible and enjoyable for the local community.
• Balancing Personal and Professional Life: The discussion highlights Nathan's desire to spend more time with family while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams.
• Community Dynamics: Emphasis on the support and camaraderie of the Johnson City community in fostering business success.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I'm always looking at what's available here versus what I am looking for in my life."
2. "I am more interested in American products that just don't get the props that they deserve."
3. "Wine is always so stodgy… I'm really interested in making wine more accessible."
4. "I wanted to spend more time with my kids… that's a huge value for me."
5. "The more restaurants there are in an area, I think the better they all do."

Glean amazing insights on entrepreneurship and culinary expertise by listening to this compelling episode. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and expert discussions with the Colin and Carly Group podcast series!

About the Guest:

Brandon Bell is the entrepreneurial force behind Risin' Vibes Kitchen, a vibrant food truck and catering business. With roots in Miami and career stints spanning globally-renowned culinary locales like Atlanta, Texas, and Northern California, Brandon's culinary journey is enriched with diverse cultural tastes and experiences. Having built his career from dishwashing to general management in the restaurant industry, Brandon’s unique journey saw him transition from restaurant management into starting his own culinary venture, which prides itself on serving handmade, chef-prepared dishes infused with positive vibes.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the podcast, Colin Johnson sits down with Brandon Bell, founder of the Risin' Vibes Kitchen, to delve into his inspiring journey from a wide-eyed culinary enthusiast to a thriving entrepreneur. Brandon shares insights into how his experiences across various states, from Miami to California, shaped his culinary journey and led him to Johnston City, where he embraced the warm, supportive community. Tune in for an exploration of Brandon's passion for creating soul-food inspired meals and delivering them with love and rhythm, reflecting his deep ties to music and community.

Brandon Bell expresses his deep appreciation for the communal spirit of Johnson City and how it contrasts with his experiences in California. The conversation showcases Risin' Vibes Kitchen's mission — not only in serving high-quality, chef-made meals like their signature chicken and waffles with a unique arepa twist, but also in fostering positive energy and connections through food. Brandon elaborates on his business's vibrant festival presence and his and his team's commitment to nourishing people, whether they're at a music festival or in post-disaster response situations, emphasizing the powerful role of food in healing and community building.

Key Takeaways:

• Community and Connection: Brandon Bell credits the welcoming and supportive nature of Johnson City with inspiring him to open his business and feels passionately about using food as a conduit for connection.
• Risin' Vibes Kitchen: Known for their tropical-inspired soul food, Brandon’s food truck focuses on artisanal, chef-crafted meals using fresh ingredients to nourish both body and soul.
• Festival Culture Influence: Brandon's love for music festivals greatly influences his business model, bringing vibrant energy and good vibes to every event they partake in.
• Personal Growth & Mastery: Brandon discusses the importance of personal development and gratitude, which helped him overcome personal challenges and align with his life's purpose.
• Journey to Entrepreneurship: His unique journey from restaurant management to food truck ownership underscores the importance of following one's passion and taking calculated risks.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Food is a conduit; it's an opportunity to connect." — Brandon Bell
2. "We believe in rising tides raising all ships, and that what we put out comes back to us." — Brandon Bell
3. "At the very root of it, I'm grateful for this breath." — Brandon Bell
4. "Investing in myself through personal development helped me take the leap into entrepreneurship." — Brandon Bell
5. "People want to see their community win and will support those who are actively working towards their goals." — Brandon Bell

Resources:

• Connect with Brandon Bell on Facebook: Brandon Bell
• Risin' Vibes Kitchen on Facebook: Risin' Vibes Kitchen
• Learning Resource: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

For more captivating insights and behind-the-scenes stories about the culinary journey of Brandon Bell, tune into the full episode. Stay connected with us for inspiring conversations, and learn more about the thriving spirit of community and entrepreneurship.