Benchmark Happenings

As the golden hues of sunrise touched the gravestones at Mountain Home National Cemetery, I couldn't help but feel the weight of history and valor that surrounded me. Today's podcast is a commemorative journey with Sue Jehlen, the esteemed director, and Joey Stewart, as they share the profound stories embedded in the hallowed grounds of this Tennessee landmark. We traverse the cemetery's origins, the architectural sp...

When Houston Kitts, area director for Young Life in Bristol, Virginia, stopped by our podcast, he didn't just bring stories—he brought a testament to the power of presence in the lives of young people. The thread of our conversation wove through the heart of Young Life's mission, to introduce the love of Jesus Christ to every teen, reaching far beyond the church walls. As a freshly minted father, Houston brought a deeply ...

Unlock the secrets behind expanding a mortgage business with the dynamic father-daughter duo, Steve Reed and Brittany, from Benchmark Home Loans. This episode gives you an exclusive peek into their strategic expansion into Knoxville, revealing why the right person at the helm is more crucial than market potential alone. Brittany, with her fresh perspective and networking expertise, has taken the Knoxville market by storm, exemplify...

Have you ever wondered what happens when childhood ambition meets tech innovation? Tune in for an exhilarating chat with Austin Ramsey, the mastermind behind Point Tech, whose journey from a kid running a DJ business to launching a thriving tech company embodies the entrepreneurial spirit at its best. Ramsey's tale is a tapestry woven with threads of youthful ingenuity, financial savvy from an early age, and the indelible infl...

As we usher in a fresh chapter with the turn of the calendar, Steve Reed from Benchmark Home Loans joins us to unravel the enigma of goal setting in our latest heart-to-heart. Promising to transform the way you approach your aspirations, this episode is a deep dive into why that ambitious list might just be the compass you need to steer through the year's tumultuous seas. Steve doesn't shy away from the fact that a mere h...

Forget everything you know about non-profit organizations, because Leslie Walker from Agape Women's Services is here to share an inspiring tale of unconditional love and community support that is simply too incredible to pass up. Imagine a place where both men and women receive much-needed assistance throughout a pregnancy journey, a place that not only offers medical services but also aims to educate and mentor. That's w...

Ever wondered how burnout can affect those in high-stress roles such as ministry leaders, first responders, and nurses? Well, this episode aims to shed light on this critical issue, with the help of our special guest, Christine Hensley. As a licensed counselor and a crucial part of Seat of Hope Ministry, Christine shares the intriguing story of how her family's retreat property, Indigo Heels, came to be. This unique retreat an...

Curious about how the home loan process is managed behind the scenes? We had a fascinating conversation with Ashley Stewart, a production partner at Benchmark Home Loans. Ashley has worked tirelessly to make sure that each client feels comfortable and informed throughout the home loan process. Her approach is centered around understanding the client's individual goals and situations to provide the best service possible.

You'd think that being a part of a movement revitalizing an entire town would be an overwhelming task, but not for Emily Champagne. As the Associate Director of Believe In Bristol, she's been part of this transformative journey from the get-go, starting out as an intern in her high school days! In our chat with Emily, you'll learn about the evolution of Bristol, the tremendous progress the organization has made since...

Meet Mark Isaac, a seasoned personal trainer and the driving force behind "Hit the Mark Personal Training". This episode is an enlightening journey through Mark's world of fitness and health, revealing how his unique approach and insights have helped countless individuals attain their fitness goals, all while enjoying the food they love. We discuss the significance of resistance training, shattering a few myths along...

Ever thought about how to juggle the intricate dance of mortgages, parenthood, and business? Join us as we sit down with our very own loan officers, Brock and Lauren, who are pirouetting through this exact scenario. They open up about the monumental changes brought on by new parenthood and how that translates into their professional life in the mortgage industry. They also delve into the importance of trust-building in the business...

How far can affordable housing go in transforming communities and fostering true independence? Join us as we navigate this intriguing terrain with our esteemed guest, Laura Kelly, the Executive Director of Holston Habitat for Humanity. Laura unpacks the impressive work of Habitat for Humanity, explaining their three-pronged role as a builder, lender, and retailer for homes that cater to lower-income families. Her insights into the ...