In this episode of Spectruss Speakeasy, Sam sits down with Austin Webster, third-generation president of The Barn Nursery, to explore how a humble $1,500 roadside fruit stand grew into one of the top nurseries in the country. Austin shares fascinating insights about the plant industry—from seven-year topiary growing processes to managing over a million plants annually—and reveals how Chattanooga's unique biodiversity creates the perfect environment for their business to thrive.

Austin takes us behind the scenes of running a 60-year family business, including how they pivoted during COVID (turning challenges into unexpected efficiencies), their approach to customer service, and why small businesses can outmaneuver corporate giants. He also discusses The Barn's deep community roots through their nonprofit work with Lana's Love, supporting families affected by childhood cancer.

Whether you're a plant enthusiast, business owner, or Chattanooga local, this conversation offers valuable lessons on growth, adaptation, and the power of staying true to your roots while embracing change.

Luke, founder of Big Sky Landscapes, shares his journey from personal training to running an Inc 5000 landscaping company, exploring how taking risks and maintaining high standards drove his remarkable five-year growth.

• Found success by exceeding the industry's low expectations – simply returning calls and showing up when promised
• Began with just two part-time helpers and has grown to over 40 full-time employees
• Implemented a performance review system giving employees multiple opportunities per year to earn raises
• Secured a major client through extraordinary persistence – following up 12-15 times over a full year
• Learned to expect challenges and embrace conflict as evidence of having high standards
• Created a culture that rewards effort – even celebrating employees who "face plant" trying to carry extra mulch
• Transitioned from residential lawn maintenance to commercial contracts and installation projects
• Made the Inc 5000 list by refusing to "pull off the throttle" at convenient stopping points
• Values people over financial gain, a lesson learned from previous mentors and bosses
• Only regret is not taking bigger risks sooner – "once you take that risk, just freaking swing"

In this episode of Spectruss Speakeasy, Sam Silvey sits down with John Wiygul, founder and president of High Point Climbing and Fitness. From explaining what rock climbing even was to skeptical bankers 12 years ago to now operating eight facilities across three states, John shares the remarkable journey of building the Southeast's premier climbing gym brand.

A lifelong climber who used to skip elementary school to hit the rocks with his older brother, John discusses how he transformed his passion into a thriving business while maintaining an authentic, non-corporate culture with over 150 employees. He reveals the challenges of the early days, the strategic partnerships that fueled growth, and his vision for High Point's continued expansion.

Beyond business, John opens up about his competitive triathlon career, training alongside Olympians, and how he balances intense athletic pursuits with running a growing company. Whether you're an entrepreneur, climber, outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about building a lifestyle business around your passion, this conversation offers valuable insights into turning what you love into what you do.

#RockClimbing #Entrepreneurship #OutdoorBusiness #Triathlon #ChattanoogaBusiness