Black Tie Optional

Black Tie Optional

Black Tie Optional is a podcast focused on inspiring the masses by sharing stories from successful entrepreneurs and people who just love what they do for a living. From fortune 500 CEOs to mom and pop shops, I want to know what makes them tik.

Episodes

March 21, 2024 60 mins

Amy Connor is a Trauma Trained Occupational Therapist who founded Hesed Place located in New Bern, North Carolina.  Walking alongside survivors for over ten years, Amy recognized the necessity for progressive, trauma-informed solutions desperately needed by those who have been severely abused.

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Caroline is a Realtor located in Greenville, North Carolina with 18 years of experience under her belt in the real estate industry. We talked all things real estate in this episode of Black Tie Optional!

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February 7, 2024 42 mins

2024 marks my 12th year in business for myself as a wedding and commercial filmmaker and as they say, "All good things must come to an end"...but it's not what you think!

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January 31, 2024 57 mins

Join us in this insightful episode of Black Tie Optional with Michael Jones, founder of 360Vdrone, as we explore the world of commercial drones in construction. Michael shares his experience in obtaining a commercial drone license, the unique challenges faced in the field, and his involvement in a high-profile court case that's shaping the future of drone use in the industry. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the intersect...

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January 12, 2024 52 mins

Dive into the world of HCK Hot Chicken in this episode with Abraham Rizek, the newest franchisee, and Freddie Gilmore, co-founder and head chef. Discover the story behind the brand's success, franchising insights, and the culinary magic that sets HCK apart. Join us for a flavorful conversation that's as engaging as it is delicious.


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January 10, 2024 69 mins

Emily McAllister is a real estate agent based in Greenville, North Carolina, who has gained popularity through her TikTok channel. She started making a mark in the real estate industry through her engaging and informative videos on TikTok.

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December 27, 2023 64 mins

Kate Ker is a social media manager, PR specialist & creator of the popular "People of Greenville" project where she sits down citizens of Greenville, NC to find out what they are all about. 

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August 22, 2023 47 mins

Lawrence Behr is the founder and CEO of LBA Group, a company that has over 60 years of experience in providing technology and risk management for industrial and telecommunications infrastructure assets in the radio frequency and electromagnetic spaces. 

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July 6, 2023 33 mins

Possibly the single most positive guy I have ever met in my entire life! Cody Strickland is a self proclaimed gig worker in Wilmington, North Carolina.  After working in the corporate sector for a while he decided it was more beneficial to focus on his success rather than someone elses. You also may have seen him on the Mr. Beast YouTube channel or chugging Kombucha spreading positive vibes.  Amazing conversation sir!

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June 1, 2023 17 mins

Marcus Chalfant has been in the insurance world for over 30 years.  This interview took place at an event put on by Planright Insurance centered around "Mastering Your Craft".  Lots of incredible knowledge here from Marcus and his view on becoming a master of your craft is beyond inspiring.  To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link below and subscribe!

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May 25, 2023 31 mins

Sean Callahan is the paint shop supervisor for flyExclusive, the 2nd largest private jet charter operator in the space. He has over 30yrs experience in aviation and has worked for some of the biggest companies out there. We talk about the early days, technology, Sean's managing philosophy and what he enjoys most about his field. To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link below and subscribe!

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May 18, 2023 21 mins

Allen Hardison is the co-founder of The Holistic Company, a North Carolina Hemp and CBD boutique focused on health and healing through quality, affordable products derived from the hemp plant. To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link below and subscribe!

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For more on Phillip and Black Tie Optional follow the links below!

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May 11, 2023 32 mins

Luke Owens is a chef and restaurateur located in Greenville, NC.  He is the executive chef and owner of Julep Contemporary Kitchen and Native Fine Diner. We talk about what started his passion for cooking and what keeps his dream going. To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link below and subscribe!

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For more on Phillip and Black Tie Optional follow the links below!

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May 4, 2023 44 mins

Bret Oliverio is the owner of Sup Dogs restaurant located in Greenville and Chapel Hill, North Carolina.  He, and his wife Jenny, uprooted and moved to Greenville shortly after the passing over his brother Derek to take over the restaurant and keep Derek's dream alive. To date, Sup Dogs is a staple in the Greenville community and has won "Best College Bar" 3 times. To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link...

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April 27, 2023 24 mins

Jason Gupton is a Hollywood stunt double and stunt coordinator.  You've likely seen him on TV or in the movies but never knew it! We talk behind the scenes, getting your foot in the door and share a few interesting stories. 

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April 24, 2023 33 mins

T.C. Daniels is the senior pastor at Power Nation Church located in Greenville, NC. He is also the lead Chaplain to the Greenville, NC Police Department and has a business leadership business. To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link below and subscribe!

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For more on Phillip and Black Tie Optional follow the links below!

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April 24, 2023 26 mins

Dusty Todd is a partner with Planright Financial & North America Senior Benefits. To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link below and subscribe!

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For more on Phillip and Black Tie Optional follow the links below!

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April 24, 2023 24 mins

Bill Goode is a photographer of over more than 40 years located in Tarboro, NC. To watch the video podcast, head on over to the link below and subscribe!

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For more on Phillip and Black Tie Optional follow the links below!

Website: https://phillipbenz.com/
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