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Our Town w| Troy Bye

Our Town w| Troy Bye

By Our Town Podcast

The Our Town podcast shines a bright spotlight on all that is great in the many great towns of Alabama. We will interview a wide range of guests from all areas of the community: business, technology, education, public service, and entertainment, etc.
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EP 37 | Rachel Sullivan, LMFT, CFLE-P | Founder, Solid Ground Counseling Center

Our Town w| Troy ByeNov 29, 2022

00:00
02:33:34
EP 84 | Mayor Tommy Battle | Mayor, Huntsville, AL

EP 84 | Mayor Tommy Battle | Mayor, Huntsville, AL

Mayor Tommy Battle is a native of Birmingham, AL and moved to Huntsville at the Age of 24 to assume ownership of a restaurant. He also worked in real estate, food and beverage, and served on the City Council before being elected Mayor in 2008. We talked about the new Soccer team, the renovation of Joe Davis Stadium, the Music Audit, hidden gems for Food, what makes Huntsville the Best City, and so much more! For more information visit https://www.huntsvilleal.govEpisode Timeline:00:00 Start00:10 9/11 Ceremony05:18 Restaurant Business11:26 Preparing to be Mayor14:35 City Council19:05 Joe Davis Stadium22:45 Huntsville City FC27:45 Downtown34:34 State of the City41:46 Best City51:38 Favorite Restaurants54:38 Fun Questions01:01:19 HSV in Next 10 Years01:05:13 Conclusion Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Sep 26, 202301:06:37
EP 83 | Tory | Radio Personality, 104.3 WZYP

EP 83 | Tory | Radio Personality, 104.3 WZYP

Tory is a member of the ZYP Radio Family, and is on the air Monday-Friday from 10a-3p. She does the ZYP Throwback Lunch every weekday at 12 noon! Tory is a Pittsburgh, PA native with a deep love for the Pittsburgh Steelers! She enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, the beach, movies, Barre and Pliates. Tory is a cupcake connoisseur, loves live music, red wine, and she falls in love with every dog she meets. Say hi and follow Tory on Twitter and Instagram @ToryOnTheRadio! 00:00 Start 01:27 Updates 03:25 All Things Madison 08:34 Engagement News 16:18 Wedding Plans 21:52 Pet Cremation 24:17 Tory's Puppy Maggie 36:11 *NSYNC 42:34 Suits & Tuxedos 48:30 iPhone 55:44 Zoom Spin Class 01:00:28 Bucee's 01:08:30 Wine River 01:11:06 Coach Prime 01:21:36 Golf is Broken 01:28:31 F1 | Phil Mickelson | Premier League 01:36:01 Conclusion Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/
Sep 19, 202301:39:58
EP 82 | Rosalie Holcombe | Madison Arts Alliance, Board President

EP 82 | Rosalie Holcombe | Madison Arts Alliance, Board President

Rosalie Holcombe is an Artist who has allowed her talents to expand into her work as a Real Estate Professional, as well as the non-profit work she does for the Madison Arts Alliance. As the President of the Board Rosalie and I discuss the MAA's successes, challenges, upcoming events, and a very interesting topic on the business of murals and graffiti. The City is doing many things in which Art is at the forefront and/or the catalyst. A native of Birmingham and graduate of Bob Jones HS, Rosalie offers some tremendous insight into our community. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 02:30 Real Estate & Art Roots 07:09 New Build vs Existing 13:59 Madison Arts Alliance 18:42 Getting Involved 24:06 Pitch & Mission 33:07 Upcoming Events 39:50 Underrepresented Art 47:29 Art Inspiration 51:34 Business of Murals & Graffiti 57:52 Picture Pack 01:05:51 Rosalie's Dogs 01:11:50 Madison Visionary Partners 01:15:45 Madison Street Festival 01:19:31 MAA Board 01:24:47 "The Six" 01:34:34 Final Thoughts For more information on the Madison Arts Alliance visit https://madisonartsalliance.org Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Sep 12, 202301:35:34
EP 81 | Part 2 | Huntsville Magazine - Takara Swoopes & CJ Byrd

EP 81 | Part 2 | Huntsville Magazine - Takara Swoopes & CJ Byrd

The Power Couple -- Takara Swoopes & CJ Byrd -- have taken the city by storm in their first year of producing the Huntsville Magazine. They have an amazing journey having met in Japan, growing and selling their own businesses in Hawaii before deciding to come back to Takara's native Alabama. They have enjoyed great feedback on their magazine and were recently recognized with (6) awards from the Alabama Press Association. Enjoy the two-part episode and subscribe today and receive 30% off your subscription by using the code "OurTown".


For more information on Takara & CJ visit https://huntsvillemagazine.com

Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast

Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z

Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Follow us on social media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/

Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:20 Huntsville Magazine Roots 04:30 Seasonal Model 07:55 Stars Aligning 11:30 Secondary Markets 18:10 Pitching Businesses 24:30 The Role of Transplants 28:25 Awards 36:00 Warm Welcome 40:38 Near Term 44:42 Digital Issues 48:00 BBQ Favorites 52:00 Urban Living

Sep 05, 202301:08:06
EP 81 | Part 1 | | Huntsville Magazine - Takara Swoopes & CJ Byrd, Co-Founders

EP 81 | Part 1 | | Huntsville Magazine - Takara Swoopes & CJ Byrd, Co-Founders

The Power Couple -- Takara Swoopes & CJ Byrd -- have taken the city by storm in their first year of producing the Huntsville Magazine. They have an amazing journey having met in Japan, growing and selling their own businesses in Hawaii before deciding to come back to Takara's native Alabama. They have enjoyed great feedback on their magazine and were recently recognized with (6) awards from the Alabama Press Association. Enjoy the two-part episode and subscribe today and receive 30% off your subscription by using the code "OurTown".


For more information on Takara & CJ visit https://huntsvillemagazine.com


Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast

Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z

Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Follow us on social media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/

Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:20 Huntsville Magazine Roots 04:30 Seasonal Model 07:55 Stars Aligning 11:30 Secondary Markets 18:10 Pitching Businesses 24:30 The Role of Transplants 28:25 Awards 36:00 Warm Welcome 40:38 Near Term 44:42 Digital Issues 48:00 BBQ Favorites 52:00 Urban Living

Sep 05, 202356:56
EP 80 | Part 2 | Ranae Bartlett, President, Madison City Chess League & Chair, Madison City Council

EP 80 | Part 2 | Ranae Bartlett, President, Madison City Chess League & Chair, Madison City Council

Ranae Bartlett has done some amazing work in her time as a resident of Madison City. In addition to serving on the School Board and presently as the Chair of the City Council, Ranae started the Madison Chess league back in 2013. The league just celebrated its 10th anniversary and has grown each year since inception. There are many exciting tournaments that Madison City will be hosting. Getting girls interested in Chess has been a major push for Ranae and, as you will hear in this episode, that objective has been more than achieved! For more information on the Madison Chess League visit https://madisonchess.com For more information on the City of Madison visit https://madisonal.gov Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 00:10 Transparency 04:45 What Have You Learned 10:00 Getting into Town Madison 13:19 Madison On Track 2045 18:20 Getting Involved 21:52 Biggest Cheerleader 27:30 New Chess Gear/Non Profit 31:10 Picture Pack 46:13 Free Chess 48:12 Shoutouts

Aug 29, 202351:57
EP 80 | Part 1 | Ranae Bartlett, President, Madison City Chess League & Chair, Madison City Council

EP 80 | Part 1 | Ranae Bartlett, President, Madison City Chess League & Chair, Madison City Council

Ranae Bartlett has done some amazing work in her time as a resident of Madison City. In addition to serving on the School Board and presently as the Chair of the City Council, Ranae started the Madison Chess league back in 2013. The league just celebrated its 10th anniversary and has grown each year since inception. There are many exciting tournaments that Madison City will be hosting. Getting girls interested in Chess has been a major push for Ranae and, as you will hear in this episode, that objective has been more than achieved! For more information on the Madison Chess League visit https://madisonchess.com For more information on the City of Madison visit https://madisonal.gov Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 02:40 Chess Kids 10:00 Tournaments 12:27 Teaching Kids Chess 20:34 Madison Chess Club 23:50 Strategies 28:30 Popularity of Chess 33:30 Timed Games/Cheating 39:00 Draws 48:30 Girls Playing Chess 54:30 Bucket List Item

Aug 29, 202357:52
EP 79 | Jared Hudson | Founder, Covenant Rescue Group

EP 79 | Jared Hudson | Founder, Covenant Rescue Group

Jared Hudson is a former Navy Seal, serving in Team 3, before being medically retired after contracting Type 1 Diabetes from the Anthrax vaccine. Jared and his wife started Covenant Rescue Group to fight human trafficking. https://www.covenantrescue. From Jared Hudson's website https://jaredhudsonforsheriff.com : My name is Jared Hudson, and I am running for Jefferson County Sheriff. I have served my country as a U.S. Navy SEAL and Alabama Law Enforcement Officer. Today, I believe I can best serve my community as your Sheriff. For the past 13 years, I have used my expertise to train police departments from around the nation, including departments from the five largest cities in America. Now, I feel called to provide those services of leadership and skill to my own community, which I share with you. As a Christian, husband, father of three daughters, and member of this community, I am ready to protect this community and make it a safe place for all of our families to thrive without fear. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 03:13 Anthrax & Type 1 06:09 Covenant Rescue Group 12:50 Tim Ballard 19:30 Costs for Operations 24:10 Probable Cause 28:39 State by State Laws 32:25 Smart Criminals 36:30 Identifying Perpetrators 43:25 Targeting Kids 48:04 Be a Threat 55:07 Undue Scrutiny 58:33 Conclusion Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/
Aug 22, 202301:02:41
EP 78 | Part 2 | Fred Wiersig, CEO & Founder, Gaming Oasis & Wiersig Enterprises

EP 78 | Part 2 | Fred Wiersig, CEO & Founder, Gaming Oasis & Wiersig Enterprises

Fred Wiersig recently graduated from the University of Alabama at Huntsville (UAH). He also was commissioned as a 2nd Lt in the Army National Guard. However, Fred has been hard at work under the parent company he founded, Wiersig Enterprises, since his high school days- focusing on Esports and working to take the industry to the next level. At the top of Fred's list is attracting the attention of investors to build an Esports arena in Huntsville, which would further cement our prized city as the Esports capital of the Southeast. Fred is passionate and you will hear that passion come through as we take the journey and take everything Esports in this episode. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 00:20 Attracting Investors 08:35 Competition Focus 12:05 ROI Discussion 19:20 Arena Rendering 25:38 Stats & Perspective 29:04 Mental Performance 35:00 Cyber Concerns 44:21 Red Bull Sponsorship 50:06 The Quick 6 Plus 1 01:04:00 College Choices 01:07:58 Doubling Down on HSV 01:13:20 Shoutouts For more information on Fred and his company Gaming Oasis, visit https://wiersigenterprises.com/our-companies/ #rocketleague #rocketleagueclips #gamers Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Aug 15, 202301:14:37
EP 78 | Part 1 | Fred Wiersig, Founder & CEO, Gaming Oasis & Wiersig Enterprises

EP 78 | Part 1 | Fred Wiersig, Founder & CEO, Gaming Oasis & Wiersig Enterprises

Fred Wiersig recently graduated from the University of Alabama at Huntsville (UAH). He also was commissioned as a 2nd Lt in the Army National Guard. However, Fred has been hard at work under the parent company he founded, Wiersig Enterprises, since his high school days- focusing on Esports and working to take the industry to the next level. At the top of Fred's list is attracting the attention of investors to build an Esports arena in Huntsville, which would further cement our prized city as the Esports capital of the Southeast. Fred is passionate and you will hear that passion come through as we take the journey and take everything Esports in this episode. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 00:20 Attracting Investors 08:35 Competition Focus 12:05 ROI Discussion 19:20 Arena Rendering 25:38 Stats & Perspective 29:04 Mental Performance 35:00 Cyber Concerns 44:21 Red Bull Sponsorship 50:06 The Quick 6 Plus 1 01:04:00 College Choices 01:07:58 Doubling Down on HSV 01:13:20 Shoutouts For more information on Fred and his company Gaming Oasis, visit https://wiersigenterprises.com/our-companies/ #rocketleague #rocketleagueclips #gamers Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Aug 15, 202355:55
EP 77 | Part 2 | Tim Knecht, Singer & Songwriter

EP 77 | Part 2 | Tim Knecht, Singer & Songwriter

Timothy Knecht may look familiar to you if you have frequented the restaurants and bars where he performs. Inspired by his California and Wyoming roots, Tim's signature style sporting a Cowboy hat and Hawaiian shirt make him recognizable not to mention his talent. Tim excels with his own, original music as well as playing covers in a unique mix of Blues, Country, and Folk. He can play and sing just about anything! We had a great conversation as well as he played several songs in the studio in this two-part episode. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 00:09 Business Model

05:59 Cover Songs

11:15 Balance

14:34 Song Performance

18:25 Poetry/Writing

25:09 Song Performance

29:13 New Songs

34:10 Covers

41:25 Song Performance

49:30 Shoutouts For more information on Tim visit: https://www.timknech.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Aug 08, 202346:10
EP 77 | Part 1 | Tim Knecht, Singer & Songwriter

EP 77 | Part 1 | Tim Knecht, Singer & Songwriter

Timothy Knecht may look familiar to you if you have frequented the restaurants and bars where he performs. Inspired by his California and Wyoming roots, Tim's signature style sporting a Cowboy hat and Hawaiian shirt make him recognizable not to mention his talent. Tim excels with his own, original music as well as playing covers in a unique mix of Blues, Country, and Folk. He can play and sing just about anything! We had a great conversation as well as he played several songs in the studio in this two-part episode. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 02:10 Intro 04:35 Drawing People In 09:15 Originals vs Covers 13:50 Pleasing People 16:22 Struggles 22:05 Nagging Feeling 28:30 Song Performance 34:40 Playing Too Much 40:34 Getting Gigs 44:53 Songwriter 48:30 Getting Established For more information on Tim visit: https://www.timknech.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Aug 08, 202354:47
EP 76 | Part 2 | Keith Overholt, CEO, Downtown Rescue Mission

EP 76 | Part 2 | Keith Overholt, CEO, Downtown Rescue Mission

Keith Overholt is a 2nd generation CEO of the Downtown Rescue Mission (DRM), after taking over the Mission from his father "Doc". A native of Buffalo and staunch Bills fan, Keith has been in Huntsville for many years now as he has continued his calling - to serve our community through his passion for being a force of good for those that are homeless. Keith provides some amazing insights into the operation of the DRM, funding & partnerships, the successful Thrift stores, challenges, community involvement, and his faith and the testimony of others that have been blessed by the ministry. For more information on Keith and the rescue visit https://downtownrescuemission.org Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:21 College & Early Career

07:10 Exemplar Rescue Missions

09:56 Taking Over

13:11 Thrift Stores

20:05 Pandhandling

26:30 Mentality & Legalities

31:55 Transitional Program

34:05 The Quick 6

42:11 Conclusion =============================================================================== Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Aug 02, 202350:19
EP 76 | Part 1 | Keith Overholt, CEO, Downtown Rescue Mission

EP 76 | Part 1 | Keith Overholt, CEO, Downtown Rescue Mission

Keith Overholt is a 2nd generation CEO of the Downtown Rescue Mission (DRM), after taking over the Mission from his father "Doc". A native of Buffalo and staunch Bills fan, Keith has been in Huntsville for many years now as he has continued his calling - to serve our community through his passion for being a force of good for those that are homeless. Keith provides some amazing insights into the operation of the DRM, funding & partnerships, the successful Thrift stores, challenges, community involvement, and his faith and the testimony of others that have been blessed by the ministry. For more information on Keith and the rescue visit https://downtownrescuemission.org

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Start

01:21 Intro

03:04 Takeaway

07:39 Career Path

11:41 Impact of "Joe"

14:59 Cause and Effect

20:12 Primary Donors

23:48 Mission Campus

27:38 Women's Campus

35:18 Scope of Services

41:22 Faith Based Center

46:35 Funding

51:41 Coalition

56:45 Pursuing Options =============================================================================== Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Aug 01, 202359:38
EP 75 | Ellen Didier | Founder & President, Red Sage Communications

EP 75 | Ellen Didier | Founder & President, Red Sage Communications

A proud, long-time resident and community supporter of Decatur, AL, Ellen Didier and her husband Tom have grown their company, Red Sage Communications, into the Regions' largest integrated marketing firm. We talked at length about their work with Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, the Huntsville Botanical Gardens, Drake State University, with the highlight being hired by the city of Decatur and launching a fresh and exciting campaign, which has launchd as "Positively Decatur". Ellen is at a very desirable stage in her life and career and she imparts that wisdom and so much more in this episode. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:01 Red Sage Beginning 05:49 First Client 09:40 Marketing Evolution 14:58 Threads 18:00 Stage of Life & Career 20:11 Amazing Mother 27:04 Red Sage Team 33:15 Integrated Marketing 36:30 Mazda Toyota 47:50 Positively Decatur 01:09:30 Botanical Gardens 01:17:30 HH Health 01:22:18 Drake State 01:29:05 Picture Pack 01:33:38 6 + 1 Game 01:44:42 Conclusion For more information on Ellen and Red Sage Communications, visit: https://www.redsageonlline.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jul 26, 202301:58:09
EP 74 | Part 2 | Dr. TC Fuller, Retired FBI Interrogator, Combat Veteran, Author

EP 74 | Part 2 | Dr. TC Fuller, Retired FBI Interrogator, Combat Veteran, Author

Here is Dr. Fuller's Bio from his website https://theoldgrayman.com

My name is T.C. Fuller. I am originally from California. I grew up in some occasionally rough places, in a shattered family, and was out on my own at 16. I put myself through prep school and college, got a degree and a Regular Army commission as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry, then headed off into the world. After my initial training at Fort Benning, Georgia, with all the “usual” infantry officer schools, I was off to the races.

Over the next decade, I served in a variety of jobs. Most notably, I was an mechanized infantry platoon leader in the First Gulf War, then an Explosive Ordnance Disposal company commander twice, first in the Sinai Desert, Egypt as part of the Multinational Force and Observers, then at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.After that, I was fortunate enough to be selected as a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). I served in various capacities in the FBI, working just about every investigative area in the Bureau’s jurisdiction at one time or another during my 20 year career. Lots of street level criminal investigations, several years of counter-terrorism investigations, and even the occasional counter-intelligence case. There were other jobs in the FBI as well, including interrogator in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, time doing all kinds of stuff in Afghanistan, Firearms Instructor (both in the field and at the FBI Academy), Defensive Tactics Instructor, and Congressional Liaison up on Capitol Hill. In my spare time, I added a Master’s of Education and a Doctorate of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, as well as publishing a book under a nom de plume. Once I retired, I opened my own firm, doing private investigations, executive protection, and consulting (www.thehorusgroup.net).

I have lived and worked in all kinds of places, doing all kinds of things. Importantly, that includes living and working across the U.S. and overseas, including war zones. And I have survived this long not only based on luck, but by being a Gray Man. By passing unnoticed when possible, seeing trouble before it sees me and leaving, escaping trouble when it finds me despite my best efforts, and, when all else has failed, by forcing the issue in my favor.I know what has worked for me, what has allowed me to survive long enough to earn my gray, to become an Old Gray Man. I want to use that knowledge and experience to help you, should you want to pursue a low profile approach in your own life.Be safe and stay low!

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Start

01:30 FBI Beginning

05:32 Burlington, VT

08:44 Guantanamo Bay

14:30 Law Enforcement Intel

19:30 Afghanistan

24:00 Kid with a Gun

31:30 FBI Overseas

38:16 Desensitized

42:10 Bureau Reaction to Return

48:15 Mental Health

51:21 Sept. 12th

55:49 Conclusion ===============================================================================Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8zAudio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media:LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTtFacebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jul 19, 202301:03:11
EP 74 | Part 1 | Dr. TC Fuller, Retired FBI Interrogator, Firearms Instructor, Author

EP 74 | Part 1 | Dr. TC Fuller, Retired FBI Interrogator, Firearms Instructor, Author

Here is Dr. Fuller's Bio from his website https://theoldgrayman.com My name is T.C. Fuller. I am originally from California. I grew up in some occasionally rough places, in a shattered family, and was out on my own at 16. I put myself through prep school and college, got a degree and a Regular Army commission as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry, then headed off into the world. After my initial training at Fort Benning, Georgia, with all the “usual” infantry officer schools, I was off to the races. Over the next decade, I served in a variety of jobs. Most notably, I was an mechanized infantry platoon leader in the First Gulf War, then an Explosive Ordnance Disposal company commander twice, first in the Sinai Desert, Egypt as part of the Multinational Force and Observers, then at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. After that, I was fortunate enough to be selected as a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). I served in various capacities in the FBI, working just about every investigative area in the Bureau’s jurisdiction at one time or another during my 20 year career. Lots of street level criminal investigations, several years of counter-terrorism investigations, and even the occasional counter-intelligence case. There were other jobs in the FBI as well, including interrogator in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, time doing all kinds of stuff in Afghanistan, Firearms Instructor (both in the field and at the FBI Academy), Defensive Tactics Instructor, and Congressional Liaison up on Capitol Hill. In my spare time, I added a Master’s of Education and a Doctorate of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, as well as publishing a book under a nom de plume. Once I retired, I opened my own firm, doing private investigations, executive protection, and consulting (www.thehorusgroup.net). I have lived and worked in all kinds of places, doing all kinds of things. Importantly, that includes living and working across the U.S. and overseas, including war zones. And I have survived this long not only based on luck, but by being a Gray Man. By passing unnoticed when possible, seeing trouble before it sees me and leaving, escaping trouble when it finds me despite my best efforts, and, when all else has failed, by forcing the issue in my favor. I know what has worked for me, what has allowed me to survive long enough to earn my gray, to become an Old Gray Man. I want to use that knowledge and experience to help you, should you want to pursue a low profile approach in your own life. Be safe and stay low! Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 04:56 Bios 08:42 Kerry Straub Intro 10:55 Active Shooters 13:41 KT Construction 22:18 Author of 2 Books 29:26 Left at Birth 34:57 Examples in Learning 37:46 Leaving Home at 16 41:10 Renting Rooms 46:10 Keeping a Low Profile 52:01 Tax Benefit 54:12 Finding the Army 57:06 Active Duty Commission 01:00:55 Ford Mustang 01:03:52 Manheim & Deployment 01:08:14 EOD School =============================================================================== Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jul 18, 202301:18:48
EP 73 | Part 2 | Cinder Girl, Christina Meredith, Miss California 2013

EP 73 | Part 2 | Cinder Girl, Christina Meredith, Miss California 2013

Empowering others with her inspiring life story, Christina Meredith survived sexual, mental and emotional abuse, trauma, aging out of foster care, poverty and homelessness to forge a life committed to helping others. Through strong faith, hard work, and creativity she went on to become Ms California, found her own nonprofit foundation, and pursue the path to becoming a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. As told in her book, CinderGirl: My Journey Out of the Ashes to a Life of Hope, during appearances on the Today Show and before speaking audiences nationwide, Christina’s story celebrates the transformative power of education, and the potential within all of us triumph over adversity. "My entire story is about hope, faith, hard work, achieving the God given dream and purpose that you have been given in this life, and not allowing things to deter you, because circumstances change," she says. "With hard work and a little faith, you can make them change."


Episode Timeline:

00:00 Start

05:27 Good Friends | Work Ethic

09:09 Get Involved

13:53 Aging Out of Foster Care

16:15 Homelessness

20:35 Moving to CA

25:22 Talent Scout

29:01 Winning Miss California

38:30 Jeb Bush

41:14 Brentwood Mansion

46:47 Army Officer

50:40 Christina's Law

54:31 Conclusion

For more info on Christina and her book "Cindergirl", visit her website https://christinameredith.org

Follow Christina on Instagram @theamericanunderdog

Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast

Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z

Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Follow us on social media:

LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt

Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jul 13, 202358:34
EP 73 | Part 1 | "Cinder Girl" The Memoir of Christina Meredith, Miss California 2013

EP 73 | Part 1 | "Cinder Girl" The Memoir of Christina Meredith, Miss California 2013

Empowering others with her inspiring life story, Christina Meredith survived sexual, mental and emotional abuse, trauma, aging out of foster care, poverty and homelessness to forge a life committed to helping others. Through strong faith, hard work, and creativity she went on to become Ms California, found her own nonprofit foundation, and pursue the path to becoming a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. As told in her book, CinderGirl: My Journey Out of the Ashes to a Life of Hope, during appearances on the Today Show and before speaking audiences nationwide, Christina’s story celebrates the transformative power of education, and the potential within all of us triumph over adversity. "My entire story is about hope, faith, hard work, achieving the God given dream and purpose that you have been given in this life, and not allowing things to deter you, because circumstances change," she says. "With hard work and a little faith, you can make them change."

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Start

00:09 Intro

04:56 Christina Intro

08:25 Cinder Girl

12:10 Mother's Abuse

17:30 Own Your Junk

19:55 Levels of Abuse

24:40 Full Blown Rejection

29:00 Dad

38:18 Move to Florida

43:05 Father's Arrest

47:03 State Assessments

49:39 Herman and Corruption

52:45 Talmon & Sexual Abuse

57:30 Christina's Law

59:30 Abuse Stats

01:04:45 How Can it Change

01:07:52 Worst of Abuse

01:12:18 Attempted Suicide For more info on Christina and her book "Cindergirl", visit her website https://christinameredith.org Follow Christina on Instagram @theamericanunderdog Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jul 11, 202301:12:42
EP 72 | Roger Kitchen, Jr. | Founder, Power Mental Performance

EP 72 | Roger Kitchen, Jr. | Founder, Power Mental Performance

EP 72 features Roger Kitchen, Jr. of Power Mental Performance. Athletics is arguably 90% mental and Roger takes us inside his passion for helping athletes of all ages tap into the power of the mind. Controllable vs. Uncontrollable, mastering the mundane, understanding feelings of anxiety, gaining confidence through positive talk, and focus are just a few of the things we tackle in this conversation. Roger is the 10th ranked power lifter in the country for his age and weight class and he was his own successful first client!


Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:04 Bio | Intro 04:49 Foundational Teaching 08:10 Test Anxiety 10:10 Controllables | Uncontrollables 15:38 Process/Results Mindset 24:20 Master the Mundane 27:41 Testimonials Difference 32:39 Gaining Confidence 38:34 Positive Talk 43:14 Practice Focus 47:40 Going Forward 51:54 Mental Health Professionals 01:04:17 LeBron Breathing Example01:11:40 Final Thoughts For more information on Roger visit https://www.powermentalperformance.com Follow on Instagram @Roger_kitchen_jr Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jul 04, 202301:23:46
EP 70 | Part 2 | Erica Despain, Founder, All Things Madison

EP 70 | Part 2 | Erica Despain, Founder, All Things Madison

Erica Despain is the Founder of All Things Madison. In short, she helps businesses to make money with her unique approach to marketing and advertising. In part 2 of this episode, you will hear about her describe her upbringing in Madison, AL to include hanging with her friends and holding down jobs, her time at Alabama and the unique way she spent her first date with her future husband, married Jamie 18 months earlier than expected, her love for writing, and the episode concludes with the amazing experience she had on the speaking circuit for Rachel's Challenge. 00:00 Start 02:45 Early Years 06:12 Rural Living 11:29 HSV Culture 15:24 Passion for Writing 19:40 Jamie | College | Humility 23:50 MTV 26:20 Dad's Letter 33:40 Picture Perfect 37:44 Clarksville, TN 41:56 Coach Despain 45:10 Developing Routine 47:20 Rachel's Challenge For more information on Erica and All Things Madison visit https://allthingsmadison.com Follow on Instagram @allthingsmadisonal OR @ericaodespain Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jun 28, 202357:46
EP 71 | Tim Knox | President, Leading Edge Real Estate Group

EP 71 | Tim Knox | President, Leading Edge Real Estate Group

BREAKING NEWS! In EP 71 Tim Knox announces the merger of Revolved Realty with Leading Edge Real Estate Group. Tim will be President of the newly formed company and Danny Sullivan will be the CEO. Tim was the founder and President of Revolved Realty in which he used our podcast to announce the merger with Danny & Charlene Sullivan of Leading Edge. Tim shares his thoughts on the merger, what this means for his former company and agents, and the strength that the new company will provide as Leading Edge quickly becomes the #3 largest Real Estate Brokerage in North Alabama. Episode Timeline 00:00 Start 01:16 Mr. T 02:36 MAJOR Announcement 04:40 Roles & Responsbilities 07:02 Need to Change Biz Model 10:36 Strengths of Revolved 12:40 Agent Attrition 17:33 Experience & Learning 19:50 Social Media Strategy 22:56 Competitive Landscape 25:10 Market Leaders 29:30 Message to Revolved Agents 32:40 Confidentiality 38:30 Work Ethic 41:47 Danny's Background 43:14 Final Thoughts For more information on Leading Edge visit their website https://https://www.leadingedgeal.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jun 27, 202348:13
EP 70 | Part 1 | Erica Despain, Founder, All Things Madison

EP 70 | Part 1 | Erica Despain, Founder, All Things Madison

Erica Despain is the Founder of All Things Madison. In short, she helps businesses to make money with her unique approach to marketing and advertising. In part 1 of this episode, you will hear about how it all started, the progression of the company, insights into her strategy and business operation, and how she handles feedback. We end the episode with Erica opening up about her daughter's near drowning experience and what she and her husband have done since that event.

Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 03:29 Big Break 07:58 Hitting a Stride 10:00 Progression 14:04 Branding & Website 18:26 Social Media Strategy 21:00 Gift Card Promotions 26:30 Negative Feedback 29:45 Hiring a COO | Selection Process 35:55 "Picture Pack" 48:40 Zoo involvement 51:58 Near Drowning Incident | ISR 56:57 CPR & PTSD 01:02:21 Typical Day 01:07:13 Final Thoughts For more information on Erica and All Things Madison visit https://allthingsmadison.com Follow on Instagram @allthingsmadisonal OR @ericaodespain Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jun 26, 202301:08:16
EP 69 | Part 2 | Donna Ehart, Managing Director, Huntsville Gener8tor

EP 69 | Part 2 | Donna Ehart, Managing Director, Huntsville Gener8tor

Donna Ehart is the Managing Director for Huntsville Gener8tor. Gener8tor is a VC firm with several programs/cohorts to help small business to reach scale. Donna discusses each program, the expectations of the VC, how Gener8tor is marketing themselves in HSV, rounds of funding, why she joined, and some of the exciting events on the horizon. 00:00 Start 01:53 Huntsville Gener8tor/Entrepreneurs 07:57 Gener8tor Business Model 13:05 VC Expectations 18:10 Website Tour 23:30 Cohort Programs 29:58 Zaden Technologies 34:34 Joining Gener8tor 38:08 Marketing Gener8tor in HSV 41:10 Launch Tank/Mentoring 44:21 Collaboration / Education 48:06 VC Funding Rounds For more information on Donna Ehart and Gener8tor visit https://www.gener8tor.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jun 21, 202301:10:36
EP 69 | Part 1 | Donna Ehart, Managing Director, Huntsville Gener8tor

EP 69 | Part 1 | Donna Ehart, Managing Director, Huntsville Gener8tor

Donna Ehart is the Managing Director for Huntsville Gener8tor. Gener8tor is a VC firm with several programs/cohorts to help small business to reach scale. Donna discusses each program, the expectations of the VC, how Gener8tor is marketing themselves in HSV, rounds of funding, why she joined, and some of the exciting events on the horizon. 00:00 Start 01:53 Huntsville Gener8tor/Entrepreneurs 07:57 Gener8tor Business Model 13:05 VC Expectations 18:10 Website Tour 23:30 Cohort Programs 29:58 Zaden Technologies 34:34 Joining Gener8tor 38:08 Marketing Gener8tor in HSV 41:10 Launch Tank/Mentoring 44:21 Collaboration / Education 48:06 VC Funding Rounds For more information on Donna Ehart and Gener8tor visit https://www.gener8tor.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net

YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3HJWfe9 Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jun 20, 202351:54
EP 68 | David Anderson | Founder & CEO, Invariant Corporation

EP 68 | David Anderson | Founder & CEO, Invariant Corporation

David Anderson is the co-founder & CEO of Invariant Corporation. When you think of companies that are truly creating solutions and capabilities for their customers, Invariant should be at the top of the list. Bullwinkle, Loki, FireFly, and Mule are just some of their main products that Invariant has evolved, many of which date back to their collective experiences with the Javelin missile program. Invariant recently celebrated reaching the 100 employee milestone and David and his management team are actively working to create an employee owned company. I was particularly impressed with the work they are doing through the Crime Gun Intelligence Technologies (CGIT), which is literally helping police to determine where gunshots were fired in their city and then identifying the shooter. Amazing Technology! A native of Arab, I learned a lot from David and his thoughts on restaurants, sports, the arts, and so much more. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 05:02 Intro/Flourish Shoutout 09:25 Tale of the Tape 11:05 Start of Invariant 17:04 Employee Benefits | Culture 21:36 Custom Hardware | Development Process 25:00 CWS 29:35 CGIT 35:38 Applied Learning | Dave's Wheelhouse 39:40 Products Overview 50:15 Employee #007 53:45 Family & Father's Influence 58:38 Sports | Trail Talk 01:09:47 Spouse Career | Vacation Spots 01:13:05 Employee Perks | Parties 01:22:23 Final Thoughts For more information on David Anderson and Invariant Corporation visit https://invariant-corp.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Company, LLC Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jun 13, 202301:30:31
EP 67 | Joey Ceci | President, Breland Companies

EP 67 | Joey Ceci | President, Breland Companies

EP 67 is up! Joey Ceci is the President of Breland Companies, which has developed the widely recognizable and popular Clift Farm and Town Madison areas. Joey takes us behind the scenes for many of the initial meetings and conversations that took place in considering the plans for Town Madison as a mixed-use project with Toyota Field as the flagship property. Additionally, Joey has been active in politics for many years in North Alabama and discusses his role on election campaigns for now Congressman Strong, Mayor Battle, and former Mayor Truloch. We talk at length about the special nature of the Greater Huntsville community, which welcomes involvement and participation from any that have a desire. The proud father of Triplet boys, Joey beams as we talk about each of his son's accomplishments and their unique skills, interests, and accomplishments. 00:00 Start 03:39 TPG Shoutout 05:48 Intro - Breland Companies 10:01 Land Development 14:00 Town Madison 19:25 Baseball Comes to Town 24:30 Community 29:30 Atlanta's Battery Example 31:34 Nothing to Do 37:40 Living in HSV 41:13 Young Professionals 45:00 Space Command 51:30 Triplets 01:00:23 Racing Stories 01:06:45 Growing Up Years 01:09:19 Why Tulane 01:13:24 Political Science 01:19:15 Academic Questions 01:24:00 Value of Degree 01:29:50 Career Politicians 01:34:31 Music Interests 01:37:41 Get Involved 01:41:41 Campaign in Local Politics 01:45:00 Conclusion For more information on Joey Ceci and Breland Companies visit https://www.linkedin.com/company/breland-companies-llc/about/https://cm.hsvchamber.org/list/member/breland-companies-huntsville-256-713-3636-8740 Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Jun 06, 202301:48:60
EP 66 | Carla Stiles | Owner, Designedbycarla

EP 66 | Carla Stiles | Owner, Designedbycarla

EP 66 is up! Carla Stiles' took her father's advice to include her name in the official name of her business.  Thus, "Designed By Carla" was born 25+ years ago and Carla has not turned back since. Carla believes in strategy-driven marketing to help companies create marketing strategies based on their business goals and objectives and then design the right plan to get them there. In addition, Carla is the host of her own podcast called "Coffee & Hustle" in which Carla has candid conversations featuring other successful business owners and sharing tips and tricks. Carla shares some amazing stories and experiences from her life that have shaped her into the person and business woman that she has become.  We talk Banana sandwiches, her pet deer, and so much more!

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Start

00:10 TPG Shoutout

03:05 RISE

07:00 Carla

10:00 Anchoring Design/SEO

18:08 Boundaries & Effort

26:05 Vacation

30:01 Troy University | Early Computer Experience

37:21 Computer Literacy 

44:50 Work Travel

47:26 Intro to Web Design

51:00 Father's Legacy

01:02:14 Mindset of College

01:07:15 Broken Van

01:13:20 Grandma "GG"

01:19:15 Dad's Passing

01:28:10 Full Scale Marketing

01:36:00 Picture Pack

01:55:48 Giving More

02:02:40 Alexander Shunnarah

02:06:53 Conclusion


For more information on Carla Stiles and Designed by Carla visit https://designedbycarla.com Follow Designed By Carla on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

May 30, 202302:08:28
EP 65 | Lauren Mills Marsh | President, Ridgeline Construction

EP 65 | Lauren Mills Marsh | President, Ridgeline Construction

Are you ready to be inspired? Lauren Mills Marsh has more than made her presence felt in the construction industry as she is the President of Ridgeline Roofing & Exteriors. While she certainly did not plan to have her first child during her senior year of high school, Lauren channeled her competitiveness and stubbornness to begin her career in the male-dominated industry of construction where she met her husband Terry. Not long after getting married, Terry decided to go off on his own and start Ridgeline, in which Lauren would soon join forces with him and now operates as the company's President. The proud parents to 4 children, Lauren shares the incredible story of their youngest, adopted from China, and the miracles that have transpired thus far in her young life. Lauren is heavily involved in giving back to her hometown community and providing an opportunity for women to succeed in construction. 00:00 Start 01:00 Born and Raised | Family 04:45 All-In 08:03 Kids Names 15:00 Teenage Pregnancy 18:33 Internship | Terry 23:08 Foundation Story 26:52 Dancing Career 33:00 Starting Ridgeline 36:52 Roofing Specialty 40:05 Website | Video 45:27 Expansion Plan 50:30 Becoming President 57:04 Branding/Architecture Styles 01:05:04 Size of Company | Subs 01:12:52 Diversity Inclusion 01:15:04 Quality Control 01:19:00 Roof Styles | Network 01:24:00 Shooting the Video 01:29:42 Anniston's Story 01:38:45 Birth Parents 01:43:00 Picture Pack 01:53:12 Conclusion For more information on Lauren and Ridgeline Construction visit them at https://ridgelineconstructionhsv.com Follow Ridgeline on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

May 24, 202301:58:20
EP 64 | Bill Collins | Founder, PokerCows.com

EP 64 | Bill Collins | Founder, PokerCows.com

When the pandemic hit, Bill's home poker group couldn’t meet in person to play, so he asked his fresh-out of college son to use that new computer science degree to write some software that would enable he and his buddies to play a high-low game called 7-27, along with a video interface. Within a few days, Bill and his crew were up and running playing a basic game over the internet. Seeing his group “together” laughing, playing cards, and having a great time was the spark that started PokerCows. Bill figured if his group was having this much fun with one basic game, imagine what a platform with a variety of games and options could deliver. In March of 2023, PokerCows beta-launched with 15 dealer’s choice games, including No-Limit Texas Hold ‘Em. PokerCows provides a private table environment for friends and family to play dealer’s choice poker games. You can make them as crazy as you want with options ranging from “low hole wild” to “roll your own” to “high-low split.” It’s designed for fun and to bring friends and family together along with all the laughs that accompany a home dealer’s choice poker game. Bill and I had a lot of fun talking about his new endeavor as well as plenty other topics. 00:00 Start 00:05 TPG, Inc. Sponsor 02:08 Shoutout to Bill Neiland& Active 8 05:27 Poker Cows 09:27 Platform for Friends 11:09 Split Pot Games 13:36 Promo Video 18:51 Poker Cows Interface 25:37 Software Development 27:54 Entrepreneur Background 32:13 Foundation and Team 38:50 Marketing & Promotion 42:53 Compatibility 47:50 Career & Education Lessons 51:45 Rentals in HSV 57:05 Retirees & Assisted Living 01:00:43 Father & Golf League 01:05:45 Golf Talk/Vegas 01:15:45 Pebble Beach/Bandon Dunes 01:22:15 Gambling Story/More Golf 01:33:10 2 Amazing Gambling Stories 01:36:59 Conclusion For more information on Poker Cows visit them at https://www.pokercows.com Photo credit and video clip credit to Active 8 Communications. https://active-8.com Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

May 17, 202301:39:38
EP 63 | Karen Petersen | Director of Development, Wellstone

EP 63 | Karen Petersen | Director of Development, Wellstone

Karen Petersen is an inspiration! Currently, Karen works and serves the community in her role as Director of Development at Wellstone. Karen was overcome with her own addiction to alcohol for 15 years of her life. She is now 20+ years sober and shares her story to inspire others that there is Hope! We can overcome those addictions that just seem impossible to overcome. In addition to sharing her own story, Karen talks about the many advances and improvements in Huntsville to helping those with mental health issues, addiction, and so much more where a concerted effort is being placed into bringing more treatment centers to our area. Karen is actively involved through events like the Beacon of Hope to raise the money needed to bring a much needed in-patient facility to North Alabama. We also discuss her Norwegian roots, the exciting times ahead for her family, and so much more. 00:00 Start 00:51 Intro 02:02 Shoutouts and TPG Sponsorship 04:30 Petersen Daughters 08:30 Troy Owes his Big Sister 11:02 Karen Having Kids 13:05 Wellstone & Mental Health Addiction Intro 15:38 YMCA Health Fair and State of Mental Health 19:40 Hiring on at Wellstone 23:38 Mental Health Facility 29:28 I Can't Be Diagnosed 31:53 Getting Treatment 35:26 Peer Counseling 37:41 Recharge 40:28 Embedding Professionals 44:51 Showing True Colors 47:14 Entrepreneurial Spirit 48:58 Raising Funds 51:43 Beacon of Hope 55:39 Lauren Sisler's story 01:00:39 First Stop Partnership 01:01:48 Attendance Targets & Sponsorships 01:04:48 Breaking the Cycle 01:08:49 Growth and Impact of the Event 01:14:38 Surname and Parents Story 01:22:29 Homecoming Story - Origin of Alcohol 01:29:23 Comparison to Siblings 01:31:17 College Years 01:36:37 Friends Circle/Blog Post 01:42:37 Never Lost Hope/Getting Help 01:44:30 "I AM TOO" Moment 01:47:27 Parents & Journal Entry 01:50:37 Overcoming Temptation 01:54:10 I Love You & I Am Too 01:55:39 Conclusion For more information on Wellstone visit their website at https://wellstone.com For more information on the 2023 Beacon of Hope visit https://go.wellstone.com/boh23 Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

May 15, 202301:58:08
EP 62 | Jennifer Holliday | Alabama Military Family Liaison, Alabama Military Stability Foundation

EP 62 | Jennifer Holliday | Alabama Military Family Liaison, Alabama Military Stability Foundation

Jennifer and her husband “Doc” retired to the Huntsville area after a distinguished military career. Jennifer’s service to the military and its families continues in so many ways, some of which are highlighted in this episode - Alabama Military Family Liaison and the Semper Fi Task Force - to name just a couple. Jennifer also walks us through some of her hobbies and interests, the highlight being, at least for me, a beautiful photo she took and we discuss during the “picture pack” segment. A native of New Jersey, Jennifer is yet another example of how lucky we are in North Alabama to have committed citizens to serve each other and the greater good. Episode Timeline:

00:00 Start

01:38 Purple Star Schools

04:09 Jennifer Intro

05:57 Westpoint/Meeting Doc

08:40 Sports Fandom and Growing up

15:52 Living in D.C.

17:48 Rutgers/Courtship

18:40 First Assignment

21:12 9/11

23:02 Orders for Bragg

26:15Home-based businesses

30:55 Deployments

32:31 Remaining Assignments

35:13 Carlisle/Army War College

40:34 Staying Involved

41:39 Huntsville

44:15 Semper Fi Task Force

56:37 Military Family Liaison

01:01:07 State Websites

01:09:05 Design Studio Work

01:14:00 Semper Fi New Logo

01:17:47 Conclusion For more information on the Alabama Military Family Liaison visit https://www.heroeswelcome.alabama.gov/the-alabama-military-stability-foundation-designates-military-family-liaison/ For more information on the Semper Fi Task Force https://semperfictf.org/ Follow Jennifer Holliday on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo


May 09, 202301:18:36
EP 61 | Ashley Engles-Ross | Director of Development, Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce

EP 61 | Ashley Engles-Ross | Director of Development, Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce

Ashley Engles-Ross is a treasure in the Huntsville community and North Alabama region. After supporting her husband's military career and settling into Huntsville, Ashley has put her career into full throttle and is thriving in her role at the Chamber of Commerce as the Vice President for Small Business. Ashley highlights the great team at the Chamber who work so well together and support one another in the many events that occur each year. Originally from Pittsburgh, Ashley shares many great stories and experiences from her early years like going eye-to-eye with a Deer while working a McDonald's drive thru window! Please remember to Like, Subscribe, and tell at least one other person about the podcast, which is proudly supported by our platinum sponsor, TPG Inc. 00:00 Start 01:53 Paralympics 03:33 TPG, Inc. Shoutout 05:05 Ashley Intro/Chamber 09:11 '22 Localopoly 14:50 Chamber Website/Econ Dev 20:40 Ashley Engels-Ross 25:45 PIttsburgh 28:24 Home Economics 35:44 McDonald's Drive Thru Stories 37:50 CarWash 47:27 Teslas 49:15 Fort Bliss 54:58 Meeting Jim 57:47 Military Career 01:05:48 Moving to HSV 01:13:00 The Chamber 01:18:00 Mangging with Confidence 01:25:55 Career in HSV 01:27:25 Small Business Awards 01:31:14 Picture Pack 01:38:40 Shoutouts/Conclusion For more information on the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce visit https://hsvchamber.org Follow the Chamber on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

May 03, 202301:41:42
EP 60 | Lisa DeFalco | Founder & CEO, TPG Inc.

EP 60 | Lisa DeFalco | Founder & CEO, TPG Inc.

"This call may be monitored for quality assurance purposes". That famous tag line is the brainchild of Lisa DeFalco, Founder & CEO of TPG Inc. A gutsy and determined woman raised by her grandmother in Newark, Lisa overcame the odds and the voices of naysayers to not only found her company in 1996 but, she also founded the entire industry for quality assurance for customer contact centers. For 26 years Lisa has achieved a masterful "blend" of her time and life by managing a residence in Sarasota and raising (3) children while also expanding and overseeing TPG operations in both Omaha and Huntsville. The Huntsville TPG family has created and is evolving "Anna" an AI-based communication assessment platform. You will thoroughly enjoy hearing Lisa's story. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:28 Lisa Intro 05:10 Starting the Industry 12:17 Williamsport, PA 14:15 High School Jobs 19:05 TPG Early Days 22:31 Value-Add/Six Sigma 26:34 Call Volume 29:40 Tagline is Born 32:05 Single Mother 36:50 Grace & Learning Process 45:20 Use Cases & Competitors 51:28 Lobbying Congress 55:55 TPG Locations 01:02:43 Meet "Anna" 01:09:43 Definitions of a "Good Call" 01:15:36 Realities of Expansion 01:24:10 Meaning of "Anna" 01:32:46 Managing Ups and Downs 01:41:52 Picture Pack 01:53:52 Quick 6 01:57:54 Shoutouts & Conclusion For more information on TPG Inc. visit https://tpginc.com Follow TPG Inc. on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Apr 25, 202302:00:05
EP 59 | Chad Emerson | Managing Director of Business Operations, Huntsville City FC

EP 59 | Chad Emerson | Managing Director of Business Operations, Huntsville City FC

Chad Emerson returns to the program in his new job as Managing Director of Business Operations for Huntsville's new soccer team. The Huntsville City FC competes in the MLS Next Pro league and is an affiliate of the Nashville MLS team. Chad is 6 months into this role and discusses the renovation progress at Joe Davis Stadium, season tickets, corporate hospitality, parking, marketing, food and beverage, and so much more. The season is underway but the team will not play its first home game until 19 May at the brand new Joe Davis Stadium. It's full steam ahead over the next month to put all of the remaining pieces in place as Huntsville welcomes its newest addition to pro sports! 00:00 Start 00:30 Welcome/Intro 02:45 Half Marathon Challenge 08:30 Joe Davis Stadium Rebuild 12:14 Initial Involvement 16:20 Legacy from Downtown HSV 19:03 Scope of New Role 21:30 HSV Soccer Community 23:30 MLS Next Pro Rules Experiments 26:00 Business Operations 31:15 Master Lease Agreement 36:22 Branding/Logo Design 42:58 Nashville Partnership/Hybrid Model 46:01 Food and Concessions 49:40 Pro Level Soccer 52:00 Downtown HSV 54:50 Infrastructure Improvements at Joe Davis 58:37 Picture Pack 01:09:20 State of U.S. Soccer 01:13:00 Word Association 01:16:20 Shoutouts & Conclusion For more information on Huntsville City FC visit their website at https://huntsvillecityfc.com Follow Huntsville City FC on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Apr 18, 202301:18:05
(Update) EP 58 | Mark Brazeal | Vice President, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing

(Update) EP 58 | Mark Brazeal | Vice President, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing

Mark Brazeal has a cool job within a very unique company that is doing things that are unprecedented in the auto manufacturing industry. An Alabama native, Mark started in textile manufacturing before making the switch to automotive manufacturing- first with a Tier-1 supplier and then making the move to Toyota. His career with Toyota now stretches past the 20 year mark and he is bringing his decades of expertise and experience to the first class operation known as Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. Mark takes us through every aspect of the journey for MTM to build their first-of-its-kind facility in Huntsville and the many challenges they faced and, more importantly, how they have overcome them - to include protecting two endangered fish species, endemic to Limestone County. Awesome conversation! Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:14 Baseball 03:26 Shoutouts to Jessica & Toni 05:07 Brazeal Surname 07:02 Mark w/Toyota High-Level 09:10 Endangered Fish Species 17:58 MTM Major Challenges 20:30 COVID Impact 25:00 Unique Mazda/Toyota Relationship 30:04 Auto Chip Shortage 39:25 Playbook for Challenges 46:14 Tornados 49:12 Career Start in Textiles 53:20 Family Influence 58:00 Teamwork Philosophy 01:01:00 Supplier Pace Challenges 01:07:25 Foreign Company in U.S. 01:13:50 Picture Pack 01:19:18 Buffalo, WV Assignment 01:23:27 Mazda/Toyota Partnership 01:29:15 Coopetition 01:34:54 "Team One" Concept 01:37:17 Game "Put the Pics in Order" 01:44:12 Closing For more information on Mazda Toyota Manufacturing visit their website at https://mazdatoyota.com Follow Mazda Toyota on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Apr 18, 202301:48:13
EP 58 | Mark Brazeal | Vice President, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing

EP 58 | Mark Brazeal | Vice President, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing

Mark Brazeal has a cool job within a very unique company that is doing things that are unprecedented in the auto manufacturing industry. An Alabama native, Mark started in textile manufacturing before making the switch to automotive manufacturing- first with a Tier-1 supplier and then making the move to Toyota. His career with Toyota now stretches past the 20 year mark and he is bringing his decades of expertise and experience to the first class operation known as Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. Mark takes us through every aspect of the journey for MTM to build their first-of-its-kind facility in Huntsville and the many challenges they faced and, more importantly, how they have overcome them - to include protecting two endangered fish species, endemic to Limestone County. Awesome conversation! Episode Timeline: 00:00 Start 01:14 Baseball 03:26 Shoutouts to Jessica & Toni 05:07 Brazeal Surname 07:02 Mark w/Toyota High-Level 09:10 Endangered Fish Species 17:58 MTM Major Challenges 20:30 COVID Impact 25:00 Unique Mazda/Toyota Relationship 30:04 Auto Chip Shortage 39:25 Playbook for Challenges 46:14 Tornados 49:12 Career Start in Textiles 53:20 Family Influence 58:00 Teamwork Philosophy 01:01:00 Supplier Pace Challenges 01:07:25 Foreign Company in U.S. 01:13:50 Picture Pack 01:19:18 Buffalo, WV Assignment 01:23:27 Mazda/Toyota Partnership 01:29:15 Coopetition 01:34:54 "Team One" Concept 01:37:17 Game "Put the Pics in Order" 01:44:12 Closing For more information on Mazda Toyota Manufacturing visit their website at https://mazdatoyota.com Follow Mazda Toyota on Instagram or Facebook Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Apr 11, 202301:48:13
EP 57 | Joe Carlucci | EXCLUSIVE - 2023 Pizza Maker of the Year

EP 57 | Joe Carlucci | EXCLUSIVE - 2023 Pizza Maker of the Year

Joe Carlucci, Owner of Valentina's Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Madison, AL, competed and won it all at the World Pizza Games in Las Vegas. He is the reigning World Champion in the Traditional category, and this year, he brought home both the victory in the Non-Traditional category and won Pizza Maker of the Year!! You can hear Joe's full story in his prior appearance on the Podcast - Episodes 22 & 50 Episode 57 was shot live in the Our Town Podcast studio and is posted on Facebook on the Our Town Podcast (or M. Troy Bye) page and will also be posted to our website and everywhere you watch or listen to your podcasts. For more information on Valentina's Pizzeria and Famous Joe, visit: https://www.valentinaspizzeria.com Instagram: valentinaspizzeria Facebook: Valentina's Pizzeria & Wine Bar or Joseph Carlucci Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/ Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

Apr 04, 202301:30:17
EP 56 | Kerry Straub | President, Huntsville Area Crime Stoppers & Retired FBI Agent

EP 56 | Kerry Straub | President, Huntsville Area Crime Stoppers & Retired FBI Agent

Born and raised in South Jersey, our town of North Alabama is privileged to have citizens like Kerry Straub call this home. The son of hard working parents and brothers, Kerry graduated from Rutgers, served his country in the Army before then deciding to apply to the FBI Academy and subsequently becoming an Agent. He retired after 20+ years with the Bureau working some amazing cases during his tenure. Kerry now leads the Huntsville Area Crime Stoppers organization, which encourages citizens to provide any info or tips that could lead to an arrest for any unsolved case(s). Kerry's transparency and insights are incredible and worth a watch/listen. 00:00 Start 00:20 HSV Spotlight 04:15 Intro to Kerry 06:13 P3 Tips App 10:31 Background 12:33 Life's First Thought 16:10 Mob Story 20:06 Dad/Mom/Brothers 24:09 Military Career 28:42 Fort Jefferson 32:00 FBI Academy 40:00 How The Bureau selected Kerry? 43:45 Celebrities 45:20 FBI Career 48:40 9/11 at FBI 52:00 Notorious Cases 57:30 Greatest Satisfaction 01:03:20 Bank Robberies 01:09:43 Balancing Career and Family 01:17:12 Job vs. Career 01:20:57 Retirement - Community Involvement 01:26:24 Crime Stoppers 01:48:15 TV Influence 01:58:05 40th Year Celebration/Shaq 02:03:20 Cold Cases 02:09:10 Running for Office ***Merch Store Now Open (Open until March 31) http://bit.ly/3ytRDmQ T-Shirts, Long Sleeve, Hoodies, Hats, and Tumbler. Act Fast!!** For more information on the Crime Stoppers visit their website at https://53crime.org Follow Huntsville Area Crime Stoppers: https://www.facebook.com/HuntsvilleAreaCrimeStoppers/about Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Mar 29, 202302:14:16
EP 55 | Carolyn Kimbro | Owner, Peachtree Interior Design & Peachtree Co. Home Furnishings

EP 55 | Carolyn Kimbro | Owner, Peachtree Interior Design & Peachtree Co. Home Furnishings

Don't let Carolyn Kimbro's smile and friendly disposition fool you, she is as competitive as they come. A former collegiate-level swimmer, she has taken advantage of earning her degree from Auburn's Interior Design program (consistently ranked one of the Nation's top) and being the daughter of two business owners, to create two successful businesses. Carolyn's first company is the Peachtree Interior Design Company, which has been in operation since 2016. Most recently, Carolyn opened the Peachtree & Co. Home Furnishings store located at Stovehouse's Gaslight Alley, which proudly supports only locally-owned and woman-owned businesses. Carolyn reveals the inspiration behind the company name, discusses design trends, bringing her kids to work, and also some of the realities of owning a small business. 00:00 Start 00:15 Intro/Kudos 03:20 Design Podcasts/Examples 05:50 Carolyn Kimbro Intro 08:50 Hiring & Vetting Applicants 16:03 Design Education 19:25 Value of 4-year Degree 24:40 Psychology/Color Psychology 30:51 Color Opposites & Material Aversion 33:04 Auburn Appeal 40:35 Plan B 44:46 Binge Watching 48:05 Complex College Project 54:11 Studying Aboard in Italy 57:05 Current Design Trends 01:00:25 Design Shows 01:02:42 Picture Pack 1 01:12:43 Swimming 01:20:10 Negative Influences/Competition 01:24:30 Family Examples 01:27:35 Peachtree Name 01:30:41 HSV Market 01:36:05 Digital vs. Hardcopy 01:40:38 Iron Bowl Fundraiser 01:44:58 Family Accomplishments 01:53:58 Name That Tune 02:03:39 Shoutouts 02:04:45 Signature Design Element 02:08:30 Grading the Our Town Studio 02:11:13 South & Southeast Influence ***Merch Store Now Open (Open until March 31) http://bit.ly/3ytRDmQ T-Shirts, Long Sleeve, Hoodies, Hats, and Tumbler. Act Fast!!** For more information on the Peachtree Interior Design Co. visit https://peachtreeinterior.com Follow Peachtree on Instagram: @peachtree.co & peachtree.and.co Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast" Follow us on social media: LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Mar 21, 202302:16:39
EP 54 | Nadia Niakossary | Sr. Director of Development, RCP Companies

EP 54 | Nadia Niakossary | Sr. Director of Development, RCP Companies

Nadia Niakossary is a Huntsville native who's family has been integral to the the Mid City area for decades. Nadia takes me on her journey from tripling her high school graduation money in a creative way, studying at Auburn, cutting her teeth in event planning in the Windy City, and her meteoric rise within the RCP Companies as a now Sr. Director of Development. Nadia's and RCP's portfolio of success in transforming the Mid City is nothing short of impressive with the creation of The Camp, recruiting and courting Trader Joe's, and the incredible story of the Music Audit leading to the smash hit-equivalent success of the building of the Orion Amphitheater. Nadia is the middle child of three and very proud of her Persian roots and, in fact, Nadia worked to have Mayor Tommy Battle sign a proclamation to have March 20th officially recognized as Nowruz in Huntsville each year. Nowruz (pronounced No-Rooz) is observed each year at the start of spring and signifies the Persian New Year, making the Persian calendar the most accurate in the world.
Episode Timeline:
00:00 Start
02:50 Rob Hamilton
Shout-out 08:05
RCP Companies
11:36 High School Jam Triples $$$
15:31 Growing up in HSV
21:45 Hawaii
26:15 Family Pictures
30:00 Proclamation
34:30 Persian Culture
39:40 Weddings
42:33 Soccer/World Cup
49:10 Career Start
52:30 The Camp
54:54 Start of RCP
01:01:48 The Camp
01:09:20 Trade Joe's
01:26:37 Music Audit
01:38:56 Picture Pack
01:43:50 Music Board
01:47:00 Speaking Engagements
01:50:38 UAH Class
01:58:22 Name That Tune
02:13:00 Karaoke
02:15:46 Conclusion
***Merch Store Now Open (Open until March 31) http://bit.ly/3ytRDmQT-Shirts, Long Sleeve, Hoodies, Hats, and Tumbler. Act Fast!!**
For more information on the RCP Companies visit
rcpcompanies.com
Follow Nadia on Instagram: @three6nadia
Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast
Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net
Spotify Channel: spoti.fi/3QtpT8z
Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast"
Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn: bit.ly/41rlgTt
Facebook: bit.ly/ourtownpodcast
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/
TikTok: bit.ly/3XIFsgo
Mar 14, 202302:17:24
EP 53 | Jacob Clark | Owner, Clark Holdings & Development Company

EP 53 | Jacob Clark | Owner, Clark Holdings & Development Company

A native of Hazel Green and graduate of Madison Academy, Jacob Clark is fulfilling his dream of owning his own company aptly named Clark Holding & Development Co.  An idyllic boyhood took a tragic turn when Jacob's older brother passed away in an accident just as he was starting his adulthood.  Family has always been at the center of Jacob's life and has provided the strength to overcome various challenges along the way; and to now be raising (5) children of his own.  Jacob shares the ups and downs of his career in home building and land development and now his sights are set on not only helping to bring a Zoo to North Alabama on a very large plot of land, but to bring a one of a kind, state-of-the-art sports complex at that same site.   And you will enjoy hearing some things that might surprise you -- as they did me -- while he and I talked.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Start

01:35 Downed Helicopter

06:50 Jacob Clark/Fitness Challenge

10:58 Bodybuilding

13:00 Homebuilding Career

17:30 Bankruptcy

20:43 Career post Divorce

24:50 Clark Holding & Development Company

27:15 The New Zoo

32:00 Sports Complex Option

40:15 Growth Potential

44:50 Company's Target Areas

49:50 Support of Spouse

54:42 Memorabilia/Card Collecting

01:00:15 Family/Kids

01:10:30 Growing up in Hazel Green

01:13:26 The Passing of Wes Clark

01:21:00 Faith of the South

01:24:30 "Picture Pack" walkthrough

01:29:30 Fow Wow Basketball Teammate

01:36:30 Atlanta Braves/Caray's

01:39:10 Multiple Kids

01:45:25 Madison Academy Basketball

01:47:08 "The 6"

01:59:00 Conclusion

Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast

Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z

Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Follow us on social media:

LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt

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Mar 08, 202302:00:23
EP 52 | Amy Lemley Bailey | Founder, Editor-in-Chief, City Lifestyle Huntsville Magazine

EP 52 | Amy Lemley Bailey | Founder, Editor-in-Chief, City Lifestyle Huntsville Magazine

Amy Lemley Bailey is another amazing Huntsville native that I have had the pleasure to interview.  She has been fashion and style conscious since a very early age and was hugely influenced by her grandmother.  While she attended college Montevallo and did an internship at Southern Living post graduation, she quickly found herself living and working in New York City.  Ultimately, she returned to her beloved Alabama and you will hear her amazing journey in following her dreams and passion of honing her craft as a style expert, travel writer, gardener, and recipe creator.  Amy is the owner of City Lifestyle Huntsville, which is proudly focused on delivering a monthly magazine serving as a one-stop-shop for hyper local, expertly created content for you that inspires and connects the community.  You will love this episode as we will tour both the hard copy and digital version of City Lifestyle's first issue for FEB 2023.  

Episode Timeline:  

00:00 Start  

01:38 Intro/Spring Weather  

07:31Grandmother's Influence  

12:50 High School Years  

16:00 Picking a College/Beauty Pageant Contestant  

22:09 Leaping to NYC  

27:00 US Weekly  

33:50 Roots of MyScoop  

38:00 Catalyst to Ramping Up  

44:00 Fashion Trends Commenting  

49:02 Blog Posts/Content Pressure  

53:03 Hyper Local  

59:50 City Lifestyle Magazine  

01:05:16 Magazine Debut  

01:10:20 Digital Walkthrough  

01:22:35 Mocktails  

01:27:20 Anticipating the Market  

01:33:40 Artemis Piece  

01:36:02 Name That Tune  

01:40:30 Shoutouts   

For more information on Amy and City Lifestyle Huntsville visit: https://citylifestyle.com/about-us Follow Amy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myscoop/  

Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast  

Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net 

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z 

Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast"   

Follow us on social media: 

LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt

Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/ 

TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Mar 01, 202301:45:24
EP 51 | Brandon Bishop | President, Madison County Foster & Adoptive Parent Association

EP 51 | Brandon Bishop | President, Madison County Foster & Adoptive Parent Association

Brandon Bishop grew up in Stevenson, AL, attended the University of Alabama, and established roots and raising his family in Madison. Brandon shares the interesting circumstance in which he met his wife, Trina, and how they would later become foster parents even with their own biological children.  We discuss the obstacles and myths that still prevail delaying qualified individuals and couples from starting the process of fostering or adopting a child.  Brandon shares many stories and insights from his many experiences as a foster parent, which proved to be both educational and emotional.  Brandon is a songwriter and we discussed the lyrics to a song he wrote entitled  "You're Doin it Wrong" and then watched it performed by Christina Lynn. Brandon is definitely a selfless person who leads a selfless life and you will be amazed to hear the other things he is involved with all aimed at community building.  

Episode Timeline:  

00:00 Start 

00:25 Episode Recap 

03:00 Intro 

05:53 MCFAPA Overview 

12:05 Meeting Trina 

17:04 Beginning the Foster Journey 

21:40 Re-energizing 

25:45 Myths of Fostering 

32:30 Relationship with Birth Parents 

41:28 Focusing on the Child 

50:20 Reuniting with a Former Foster 

52:39 Rules and Parenting Style 

01:01:20 Kids Opening Up 

01:05:02 Taking Care of the Host Family 

01:10:27 "You're Doing it Wrong" 

01:23:55 Personal/Solo Time 

01:28:40 Music Producers 

01:33:23 Picture Pack 

01:54:53 The Quick 6 

02:09:45 What would an Ad say? 

02:12:04 Conclusion  

For more information on MCFAPA visit https://mcfapa.life

For more information on Alabama's Foster and Adoptive Parent Association visit https://afapa.org


Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast 

Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net 

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z

Audio available on all platforms - just search for "Our Town Podcast"  

Follow us on social media: 

LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/41rlgTt

Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

TikTok: http://bit.ly/3XIFsgo

Feb 21, 202302:16:36
EP 50 | Famous Joe Carlucci | Owner, Valentina's Pizzeria & Wine Bar, World Pizza Champion

EP 50 | Famous Joe Carlucci | Owner, Valentina's Pizzeria & Wine Bar, World Pizza Champion

Reigning World Champion and original member of the World Pizza Champions, Joe Carlucci, returns to the Podcast for milestone episode 50!  Joe catches us up on the progress of the new store that will open in the summer, which requires tripling his staff and adding a Bourbon room, lessons and instruction from his mentor, handling frustrated customers and implementing quality control measures, raising a daughter in 2023, and the behind the scenes of what took place during his appearance on Hulu's "Best In Dough".  Joe is always entertaining but also very thoughtful and drops some great nuggets of wisdom that you will not want to miss.


Episode Timeline: 

00:00 Start 

01:45 EP 22 Recap 

03:00 Impact of Bucee's on Business 

05:45 Summary of Joe's Story 

08:08 Influence of Tony Gemignani 

12:43 Building a Team/Life Coach 

18:40 Plans for New Valentina's Store 

23:50 Amazing Staff 

29:43 Adding a Bourbon Room/ New Commercial 

33:15 Delivery and Pickup 

39:00 Handling Frustrated Customers/Quality Controls 

46:55 Joe's Dad 

55:50 Raising Valentina 

59:11 Appearance on Hulu's "Best in Dough" 

01:15:00 Prayer Group/YT Channel for Valentina 

01:19:30 Trends in Pizza Style 

01:22:00 Educating Staff to Differentitate 

01:28:57 The Quick 6/Empathy & Sympathy for Others 

01:37:05 Surrounding Yourself with Positive Influence 

01:44:45  Using Analogies to Teach 

01:50:55 Valentina Dating 

01:56:10 Projection for Move-In/Plan for Murals 

02:06:00 Conclusion  


For more information on Valentina's Pizzeria and Famous Joe, visit: https://www.valentinaspizzeria.com 

Instagram: valentinaspizzeria 

Facebook: Valentina's Pizzeria & Wine Bar orJoseph Carlucci  


Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net 

YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3HJWfe9

Audio available on all platforms.  Just search for "Our Town Podcast"  

Follow us on social media: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/our-town-podcast-50033a234/

Facebook: https://bit.ly/ourtownpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourtownpodcast/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCP5NjTsQ72k00C5n7ghLapA

Feb 14, 202302:11:07
EP 49 | Clay "FreakDaddy" Sanders Coleman | On-ice Personality Huntsville Havoc

EP 49 | Clay "FreakDaddy" Sanders Coleman | On-ice Personality Huntsville Havoc

Huntsville Havoc fans have endeared themselves to Clay "FreakDaddy" Sanders Coleman for the past 17 years. Originally from Western Kentucky, FreakDaddy started in the radio business in college and then established himself as a household name on the North Alabama air waves. While no longer working in radio, Clay continues to pursue his passion for announcing by volunteering his time to local Youth and High School sports, most notably for his son's teams/schools. You will learn how Clay chose the FreakDaddy moniker, watch some of the funny bits and promos he has done, and watch him show off the Havoc's championship hardware and jersey's in a show 'n tell segment. Clay is a great man and you will thoroughly enjoy getting to know him better!
00 0:00 Start
01:35 UAH Student Shout-Out
02:09 Clay Coleman Intro
06:25 Radio Industry
09:35 Western Kentucky Degree
16:20 Early Years/Dad's Influence
20:50 Podcast Resistance
25:57 Passion
32:30 Local Radio History
47:22 FreakDaddy's Passion for Broadcasting
54:30 Wimp Sanderson
58:30 FreakDaddy, FreakBaby
01:01:00 First Time seeing FreakDaddy
01:03:45 HS and Youth Announcing
01:11:49 Parent Involvement
01:17:10 Innovating HS Rivalry
01:22:09 FreakDaddy Origin
01:29:07 Minor League Sports
01:34:01 Havoc In-Game Entertainment
01:45:17 Tyler Piancentini Captainship
01:51:20 Adrenaline
01:55:49 Post Game Interviews
02:02:00 Funny Promos
02:10:45 Show 'N Tell
02:17:00 The Quick 6
02:31:09 Conclusion
For more information on Huntsville Havoc go to
www.huntsvillehavoc.com
Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast a brand of the Our Town Company, LLC
Website: www.ourtownpodcast.net
YouTube Channel: bit.ly/3HJWfe9
Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast"
Feb 07, 202302:38:03
EP 48 | Drew Gilbert | EMS Captain, Harvest Volunteer Fire Department, Assistant Director, First Stop

EP 48 | Drew Gilbert | EMS Captain, Harvest Volunteer Fire Department, Assistant Director, First Stop

Drew Gilbert is an example to the younger generation.  With the love of a caring,strong, and selfless mother, Drew was raised well in Alabaster, AL and now proudly serves the public good in his job at First Stop and as a Captain of the EMS team for the Harvest Volunteer Fire Department. He served his country in the Army National Guard and deployed to Iraq to support Operations Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn.  Through his military and fire fighting training he has received extensive training and certifications related to emergency response and tactical medicine, which he uses to save lives in the greater huntsville area on a regular basis.  This interview will simply make you feel good that our town has amazing citizens like Drew who live and work here.  

00:00 Start 

03:00 First Stop 

11:10 HSV Homeless Population 

13:52 Alabaster, AL 

17:15 Incredible Mom 

22:30 Westminster Christian Academy 

26:31 National Guard 

31:05 Military Career 

34:35 Deployment 

37:30 Bin Laden News 

40:10 Public Good 

43:10 Medical Training 

48:15 Volunteer Firefighter 

53:45 Training and Benefits 

01:00:40 Emergency Notification 

01:07:25 Scene Size-ups 

01:23:10 Cardiac Arrest Incident 

01:32:10 Mult-Injury Accidents 

01:37:58 Picture Pack & Commentary 

02:00:36 Name That Tune 

02:04:40 The Quick 6 

02:19:30 HVFD Challenge Coin and Patch  

For more information on First Stop visit https://firststop.org

For more information on the Harvest Volunteer Fire Department visit https://harvestvfd.com 

Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast a brand of the Our Town Company, LLC 

Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net  

YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/3HJWfe9

Audio available on all platforms.  Just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Feb 01, 202302:23:02
EP 47 | Alex & Darren White | Founders, Travel Hacking Bros

EP 47 | Alex & Darren White | Founders, Travel Hacking Bros

Travel Hacking Bros we will teach, guide, and plan your trips, big or small. The best part is these trips can be done for free or nearly free using points and miles! Travel Hacking Bros focuses on utilizing different credit cards and their sign up bonuses and using those points to redeem hotels, flights and all inclusive resorts all around the world. The best part is, it is all achievable with your everyday purchases and you do not have to worry about going into debt. After all, if you go in to debt then you are not really travelling for free. Travel Hacking Bros will be by your side to walk you through each step along the way to make your DREAM VACATIONS and other trips a reality. Feel free to reach out to us through our page or send us an email and we will set up a consultation to further explain the process. Consultations from Travel Hacking Bros are free to you as well! 

In this episode, you will hear from Alex and Darren White, whom are the brothers behind the THB, as they talk about how they embarked on this journey to create a travel hacking company.  They have a great relationship and we had some fun moments in watching them banter back and forth recounting fun memories and experiences.  Most of the episode is devoted to teaching you, the travel consumer, how to master the system that has been created by Credit Card companies to be hacked for your benefit. 

Episode Timeline: 

00:00 Start  

01:47 Alex & Darren White Intro 

07:05 Genesis of THB 

12:30 Collecting CC Points 

19:50 CC Sequencing Strategy 

22:30 No Escape from Taxes 

26:55 Favorite Hotel Chain 

31:00 The Masters 

36:28 Extra Benefits 

45:12 Cross Collaboration 

53:30 Travel Training Camp 

58:10 Customer Experience 

01:08:10 THB Logos and Marketing 

01:24:20 CC Myths 

01:29:00 Paradigm Shift 

01:38:00 Fescue Grass 

01:42:05 Picture Pack 

01:52:02 The Quick 6  

Follow the Travel Hacking Bros on Instagram "travelhackingbros" 

Email them at travelhackingbros@gmail.com  

Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast a brand of the Our Town Company, LLC

Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net  

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z

Audio available on all platforms.  Just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Jan 25, 202302:18:10
EP 46 | Part 2 - Sonya Bailor | Founder, The Bailor Group

EP 46 | Part 2 - Sonya Bailor | Founder, The Bailor Group

EP 46 | Part 2 - Sonya Bailor | Founder, The Bailor Group
Each of us has a story and each of us grew out of a circumstance. This week's episodes feature Sonya Bailor, Founder of the Bailor Group, in which you will hear, in direct detail, how her circumstance falls into the "exceptional" category. In EP 45 (Part I) we discuss her children and the successful business that she runs. We discuss business and marketing strategy, the psychology of consumers, and her two children, of whom she is immensely proud.. Then in EP 46 Sonya takes us into her life as a child in which she and her siblings were subject to traumas, horror, and sadness that none of us would wish on anyone. But, Sonya has triumphed and developed into a smart and strong leader, a loving mother, and is full of optimism and hope.
Episode Timeline:
00:00 Start
01:48 Anti-Victim Mentality
07:39 Assignment Gone Wrong
13:29 Kidnapped
17:10 Found
21:25 Orphanage
24:30 Foster Home Abuse
31:55 Reunited w/ Mom
39:40 Staying Optimistic
44:15 Missionettes
50:40 Core Group of Women
53:50 Feminism
58:15 DNA vs. Environmental
01:02:56 Tunnel Vision/Adjusting Triggers
01:07:45 Lessons from Personal Life
01:12:10 Personality Deficiency
01:22:08 Auto Shop
01:30:00 Name That Tune
01:40:35 Closing
For more information on Sonya Bailor, visit
www.sonyabailor.com
Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast a brand of the Our Town Company, LLC
Website: ourtownpodcast.net
Spotify Channel: spoti.fi/3QtpT8z
Audio available on all platforms. Just search for "Our Town Podcast"
Jan 18, 202301:45:51
EP 45 | Part 1 - Sonya Bailor | Founder, The Bailor Group

EP 45 | Part 1 - Sonya Bailor | Founder, The Bailor Group

Our Town Podcast - EP 45 | Part 1-Sonya Bailor, Founder, The Bailor Group.  

Each of us has a story and each of us grew out of a circumstance.  This week's episodes feature Sonya Bailor, Founder of the Bailor Group, in which you will hear, in direct detail, how her circumstance falls into the "exceptional" category.  In EP 45 (Part I) we discuss her children and the successful business that she runs.  We discuss business and marketing strategy, the psychology of consumers, and her two children, of whom she is immensely proud..  Then in EP 46 Sonya takes us into her life as a child in which she and her siblings were subject to traumas, horror, and sadness that none of us would wish on anyone.  But, Sonya has triumphed and developed into a smart and strong leader, a loving mother, and is full of optimism and hope.   

Episode Timeline 

00:00 Start 

04:00 Intro & Family 

11:56 Playground Story 

13:35 Savannah 

17:25 Shoutouts  

22:35 The Bailor Group | Core Competence 

26:45 Business Value Mix 

32:30 Power in Connections 

35:00 Inventing a Word 

36:40 Business Minds 

38:30 Focus Group/SWOT 

42:45 Marketing Illustration 

46:30 Bad Products/Bad Business 

49:30 Fashion Industry  

For more information on Sonya, visit www.sonyabailor.com  

Host/Interviewer: M. Troy Bye, Owner, Our Town Podcast a brand of the Our Town Company, LLC 

Website: https://ourtownpodcast.net  

Spotify Channel: https://spoti.fi/3QtpT8z

Audio available on all platforms.  Just search for "Our Town Podcast"

Jan 18, 202356:30