Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Collin Johnson sits down with Joseph Beardshear and John Dewberry, from Do It Right Remodel. They share how the story behind their launch of their remodeling business, and offer real-world advice on everything from renovation costs to financing options. Whether you're dreaming of a home makeover or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode is full of practical tips, personal stories, and local pride. Tune in to hear how John and Joe are building more than just homes—they're building community.

Takeaways

The people in Johnson City are friendly and welcoming.
Moving from a big city to Johnson City offers a refreshing change.
Do It Right Remodel specializes in kitchens, bathrooms, and decks.
Understanding remodeling costs is crucial for homeowners.
Financing options are available for remodeling projects.
Setting realistic expectations with clients is essential.
Choosing a contractor requires careful consideration and research.
Homeowners should start with small projects to gauge contractor reliability.
Having a clear budget helps in planning renovations effectively.
Personal connections and community involvement are important in business.

Resources:

• Do It Right Remodel - Gray, TN - Nextdoor
• (1) Facebook (Do It Right Remodel FB)
• DO IT RIGHT REMODEL - Updated June 2025 - 50 Photos - Gray, Tennessee - General Contractors - Phone Number - Yelp
• Do It Right Remodel (@doitrightremod) • Instagram photos and videos

• Google Page
  • https://g.co/kgs/dJ1nRxh
• Website
  • Home Remodeling Contractor | Do It Right Remodel

Summary

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Collin Johnson engages with Ben Christian, Chief Strategy Officer at Price and Ramey. They discuss the vibrant community of Johnson City, the importance of insurance in people's lives, and the role of local businesses. Ben shares his journey from sales to strategy, his experiences growing up in Gate City, and the significance of faith and community involvement. The conversation also touches on the challenges of the insurance industry and the future of technology in this field, emphasizing the value of trust and personal connections.

Takeaways

Diversity and vibrancy in Johnson City are notable.
The role of a Chief Strategy Officer involves blending various departments.
Insurance is a noble profession that helps people in crisis.
Building trust is essential in the insurance industry.
Local businesses contribute significantly to the community's economy.
Coaching youth sports is a way to invest in the next generation.
Faith plays a crucial role in personal and professional life.
Rejection is a common challenge in sales and requires resilience.
The future of insurance will involve more technology and automation.
Community engagement and local connections are vital for success.

Summary

In this episode of Johnson City Living, hosts Colin Johnson and Carla welcome Randy and Tanya Bonnette, owners of Sweeter Than Sweet Candy Company. The conversation explores their journey from Florida to East Tennessee, the charm of Johnson City, and the unique offerings of their candy business. They discuss the importance of community engagement, their plans for the future, and the challenges of running a small business while balancing family life. The Bonnettes share their passion for creating joyful experiences for their customers and their commitment to giving back to the community.

Takeaways

Johnson City offers a small-town vibe with everything you need.
Randy and Tanya moved from Florida to East Tennessee for a fresh start.
They started Sweeter Than Sweet Candy Company during the pandemic.
The candy store focuses on unique, imported products not found elsewhere.
Community engagement is a core value for their business.
They aim to create joyful experiences for customers in their store.
The couple balances running their business with family life.
They have plans to expand their candy business further.
Randy and Tanya emphasize the importance of giving back to the community.
Their journey reflects resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurship.

Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sweeter_than_sweet_greeneville/?hl=en

Summary

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Collin Johnson welcomes Evan Harr, the director of business development for Rearview Rentals. They discuss the charm of Johnson City, local favorites, and the growth of the community. Evan shares insights about the business he works for, which specializes in 15-passenger van rentals, emphasizing a customer-centric approach and innovative business model. The conversation also touches on the importance of building relationships within the community and the potential for future growth in the area.

Takeaways

Evan Harr emphasizes the importance of community connections in Johnson City.
Rearview Rentals offers a unique, contactless rental experience.
The business model focuses on customer satisfaction and guaranteed reservations.
Evan's background in business development enhances his approach to growth.
The local community is experiencing growth with new businesses and opportunities.
Building relationships is crucial for personal and professional success.
The podcast highlights local favorites, including Rock's Pizza.
Evan discusses the potential for expansion into new markets.
The conversation reflects a shared passion for helping others and community involvement.

Book now at https://www.rearviewrentals.com/

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Dylan O'Sullivan shares his journey from New York to Johnson City, his experiences as a professional MMA fighter, and the establishment of Claddagh Combat Academy. He discusses the importance of community, personal growth through fighting, and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats. Dylan emphasizes the significance of building a supportive environment for others, especially the youth, through programs like anti-bullying. He also touches on training regimens, nutrition, and his aspirations for the future, including becoming a world champion.

Takeaways

Dylan emphasizes the unique charm and welcoming nature of Johnson City.
He shares his journey from New York to Johnson City and how it shaped him.
Dylan discusses his transition from amateur to professional MMA fighter.
He highlights the life lessons learned through fighting and personal growth.
Dylan is passionate about building a community at Claddagh Combat Academy.
He is launching an anti-bullying program for kids at his gym.
Dylan reflects on overcoming injuries and the challenges faced in his career.
He shares insights on training regimens and the importance of conditioning.
Dylan aims to become a world champion in the next five years.
He emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and nutrition for fighters.

Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/claddaghcombatacademy/?hl=en

Summary

In this episode of Johnson City Living, host Colin Johnson welcomes Veronica Alsop, who shares her journey from Mexico to Arizona and finally to Johnson City. Veronica discusses her love for the community, her experiences with recovery, and her new role as the director of the Elizabethton Chamber of Commerce. The conversation touches on the importance of community support, recognizing red flags in relationships, and the impact of addiction on families. Veronica emphasizes the need for open discussions about substance abuse and the potential for growth in the Elizabethton area.

Takeaways

Veronica loves the welcoming nature of Johnson City.
She moved to Tennessee seeking a change and a sense of purpose.
Recovery has played a significant role in her life and community involvement.
The Emmaus community has been life-changing for her.
Addiction affects not just the individual but their entire family.
Recognizing red flags in relationships is crucial for personal well-being.
Community support is vital in addressing substance abuse issues.
Veronica's career path has been shaped by her desire to help others.
She is excited about her new role at the Chamber of Commerce.
There is a lot of potential for growth in Elizabethton's dining and business scene.

Resources:

https://elizabethtonchamber.com/

Summary

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson engages with Anne G'fellers-Mason, the program manager at the McKinney Center in Jonesborough, who runs the StoryTown Radio Show. They discuss Anne's deep roots in Johnson City, her passion for storytelling, and the importance of preserving local history through oral narratives. The conversation explores the growth of Jonesborough as a cultural hub, the process of playwriting, and the significance of community engagement in the arts. Anne shares insights on the challenges and joys of storytelling, as well as advice for aspiring playwrights. The episode concludes with a look at upcoming events and the future of storytelling in the region.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Johnson City Living Podcast
00:57 Growing Up in Johnson City
02:56 The Art of Storytelling
06:02 Jonesborough: The Storytelling Capital
09:12 The StoryTown Radio Show
12:14 Theater and Playwriting in Jonesborough
14:58 Researching and Writing Plays
17:59 The Jackson Theater and Local Arts
21:10 Community Events and Growth in Jonesborough
24:07 Collecting Stories from the Community
27:04 The Future of Podcasting and Storytelling
29:48 Closing Thoughts and Future Goals

https://mckinneycenter.com/storytown

Summary

In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Collin Johnson speaks with Kemp Johnson, a barber and boxer from Johnson City. They discuss the beauty of the community, the growth of the barbering and boxing industries, and the importance of mentoring youth. Kemp shares his journey into boxing, his competitive achievements, and his goals for the future, including winning a WBC belt. The conversation also touches on personal growth, faith, and raising awareness about social injustice. In this engaging conversation, Kemp shares his journey as a boxer and the importance of community, family, and faith in his life. He discusses the challenges he faces in the ring and how he learns from every experience, whether a win or a loss. Kemp emphasizes the significance of treating others with kindness and the impact of mentorship in shaping his path. His positive attitude and dedication to his craft inspire those around him, as he aims to uplift the next generation through boxing and personal development.

Resources: https://fanetofades.com/