Voices of Inspiration

Bryson City, NC, is a mountain town in Western North Carolina that blends resilience, community spirit, and festive traditions. In this episode, Sarah Conley, Executive Director of the Swain County TDA, shares how Bryson City navigated the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. From using social media to keep residents informed to preparing for winter visitors, the town demonstrates its strength and ability to adapt in every situation.

As t...

Beech Mountain, North Carolina, Tourism Marketing Director Armando Garcia shares the story of how this resilient mountain community responded to Hurricane Helene, with heartfelt support from both locals and visitors. As winter approaches, Beech Mountain is prepared to welcome travelers to its snowy slopes and scenic trails. In this episode, Armando provides valuable travel tips on how visitors can support nearby North Carolina comm...

John Murray, owner of 96 Pecan Company in Ninety-Six, South Carolina, discusses pecan farming and candy-making. Learn how his college football experience at Clemson and desire for a meaningful retirement led him to create a thriving business that's become an integral part of his community.

In this episode, John talks about:

• His shift to pecan farming
• Applying football lessons to business
• Navigating challenges in agriculture an...

Erica McCier, owner of Indigenous Underground in Abbeville, South Carolina, and 2023 South Carolina Chef Ambassador, shares her remarkable journey from middle school art teacher to celebrated chef. Discover how a near-death experience became the catalyst for McCier's transformation, propelling her from the classroom to the kitchen and ultimately to culinary stardom.

In this episode, Erica dishes on:

• Her surprising transition...

Welcome to our latest episode featuring Sharon Manor, a unique bed and breakfast in Abbeville, South Carolina. This former 1920s schoolhouse has been transformed into a cozy inn by the Chupp family.

This episode offers insights for history enthusiasts, small-town charm seekers, and those interested in renovation projects. We also share useful tips for aspiring B&B owners.

Join us to learn about the journey of ...

Join us as we dive deep into the world of culinary excellence with Chef Darren Smith, a renowned restaurateur and culinary maestro. In this episode, Darren shares his inspiring journey from his early days in the kitchen to becoming a successful restaurant owner. Discover the secrets behind running a thriving restaurant, including the importance of hiring great talent and fostering a positive work environment.

Darren reveals the core...

In this episode, Shawn Askinosie, founder of Askinosie Chocolate, shares his journey from being a criminal defense lawyer to pursuing chocolate. 

Takeaways:

• Tragedy can lead to finding one's life purpose.
• Rising cocoa bean prices pose challenges for chocolate makers.
• Building relationships with farmers is crucial in the chocolate industry.
• Profit sharing can have a positive impact on farmers and their communities. Ask...

In this episode, host Amelia Old chats with Rachel Knight, tourism director of Berkeley County, South Carolina. Discover the pivotal role Berkeley County played in the American Revolutionary War, the cunning strategies of the Swamp Fox, Francis Marion, and explore historic sites like Fort Fairlawn and Biggins Church.

Learn about current preservation efforts, how you can experience battlefield tours, and upcoming events commemorating...

In this episode, host Amelia Old chats with Krissy Milan (Tourism Manager) and Colette Daniels (Tourism Development Coordinator) about Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter, South Carolina.  Swan Lake Iris Gardens , established in 1927, began as a private pond however, a twist of fate turned this into a haven for Japanese Irises, now boasting around 120 species.

Over time, Swan Lake evolved from a private retreat to a beloved community t...

Join Amelia Old, Darrell Gaither, and Lori Setzer as they celebrate the 40th anniversary of South Carolina's state dance at the North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum. Darrell and Lori share their journey from shagging novice to seasoned instructors and competitors, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of shag dancing in Myrtle Beach. Discover the tunes, debunk the myths, and explore the inclusive nature of ...

Step into the heart of Winna's Kitchen with Amelia Old as she sits down with Chef Jess Sagun. In this episode, Jess shares the personal journey behind Winna's Kitchen, a place where community, comfort, and cuisine intertwine. Jess opens up about her path, filled with moments of sorrow and triumph, and how these experiences have shaped the warm, inviting space that is Winna's Kitchen. Jess also opens up about the touc...

Dr. Benjamin E. Mays is a towering figure in the history of the civil rights movement in America. His story, a testament to the human spirit's resilience and capacity for greatness, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations. Born in the waning days of slavery, Dr. Mays emerged from the humble beginnings of a sharecropping community in Greenwood County to become a mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and an adv...

Embark on a journey through the flavors, struggles, and triumphs of a culinary mastermind as I, Amelia Old, sit down with the pioneering Chef Daryl Shular. Chef Shular pulls back the curtain on his rise from a childhood filled with the warmth of his mother's kitchen to making history as the first African American certified master chef. The aroma of resilience and diversity is rich in this episode, as we trace his steps and dis...

As the executive director of The Kentucky Wildlands, Tammie Nazario has been a driving force behind the region's economic pivot from coal to tourism.  With over 800 waterfalls as her office backdrop, Tammie embodies the resilience and spirit of her homeland, and she's here to tell us how her team has managed to carve a trail of hope through these enchanting woods.

Home to mist-shrouded mountains and ancient fores...

Meet Lisa Jansen, a fearless digital nomad who chose the open road over societal expectations. At 33, she discarded conventional norms—marriage, kids, and traditional careers—for a five-year escapade across New Zealand, chronicled on her blog, Life Done Differently. She's also the creative mind behind three books: "Life Done Differently," "The Nomad's Ultimate Guide to NZ," and "One Size Does Not ...

 Born with a rare form of muscular dystrophy, Kristen Secor, is not one to be held back. She has found joy in exploring the globe, documenting her journey on her accessible travel blog, World on Wheels. Her experiences, filled with challenges and triumphs, offer amazing insights into the world of accessible travel.

Kristin shares how meticulous planning and a keen spirit of adventure can make the world accessible for those...