About the Guests:

Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers are the dynamic founders of "The Feisty Pigeon," Johnson City's newest wine bar. Adrian is a certified sommelier with extensive experience in the restaurant industry, having worked in multiple facets from kitchen roles to bartending, and has developed a passion for wine through years of industry exposure. Ddendyl, a musician with a rich history as a performing artist, has graced stages across the country, including a residency on the Las Vegas Strip and an appearance on NBC's "The Voice" as a member of Team Shakira. Their combined expertise in hospitality and entertainment is setting the stage for a unique business venture aimed at cultivating a cultural hub in Johnson City's vibrant downtown.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Johnson City Living, host Colin Johnson sits down with Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers, the couple behind Johnson City's latest venture, "The Feisty Pigeon." As the city recovers from recent challenges, this duo is eager to contribute to the community's cultural and social scene by opening its very first wine bar. Nestled in the heart of downtown, their establishment promises to blend fine wines, art, small plate offerings, and live music into an inviting and innovative environment.

Adrian shares his journey from the Finger Lakes region of New York to becoming a certified sommelier, highlighting his longstanding involvement in the restaurant industry. Ddendyl brings insights from her music career, including stories from her time performing in major cities and on national television. Together, they discuss their vision for "The Feisty Pigeon," aiming to create a space that combines passion, hospitality, and community engagement. This episode offers a fascinating look into launching a new business and the enthusiasm behind it.

Key Takeaways:

• Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers are introducing "The Feisty Pigeon," Johnson City's first and only wine bar, aiming to enrich the community's cultural fabric.
• The establishment will feature a harmonious blend of fine wines, small plates, and live music, with an art component offering local artists space to display their work.
• Inspired by their backgrounds, the couple combines Adrian's wine expertise with Ddendyl's musical talent to create a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere for guests.
• Emphasizing inclusivity, they plan to host events like "Pinot and Praise," integrating music and spiritual experiences in a relaxed setting.
• The Rogers' commitment to fostering community ties is evident in their approach to collaborate with local businesses and creatives to amplify Johnson City's vibrant downtown scene.

Notable Quotes:

• "We love the people. It's just been such a pleasure getting to know the community, and everyone's been so warm and receptive." – Ddendyl Rogers
• "You can open a book and a bottle and you can go anywhere in the world." – Adrian Rogers
• "We want it to be a little refined, but still fun." – Adrian Rogers
• "There’s no occasion that bubbles can’t fix." – Adrian Rogers
• "We are open, willing, and pursuing some collaborations with other local businesses." – Adrian Rogers

Resources:

• The Feisty Pigeon on Instagram and Facebook (Note: Actual URL was not provided in the transcript, placeholder used)
• The Feisty Pigeon website (coming soon)

Tune in to this episode to explore the vision and passion behind "The Feisty Pigeon" and uncover how Adrian and Ddendyl Rogers plan to bring a fresh cultural experience to Johnson City. Stay connected with us for more inspiring stories and insightful content on [Podcast Name].

About the Guest:

Thomas DeHart is a knowledgeable accountant who transitioned from roles in call centers to establishing his own firm, Insight CFO. With a profound understanding of both traditional and modern accounting strategies, Thomas offers innovative financial solutions like the "Profit First" strategy. His educational background includes a degree in Philosophy and a second degree in Accounting from East Tennessee State University. Thomas excels in focusing on service-based and construction industries, providing customized financial guidance to his clients.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson engages Thomas DeHart in an insightful discussion about accounting, entrepreneurship, and the benefits of implementing the "Profit First" approach in business operations. Sharing personal anecdotes from his journey, Thomas highlights the challenges and revelations he encountered throughout his career shift from philosophy to accounting, leading to the inception of his own firm, Insight CFO, in 2022.

Delving deep into strategies for entrepreneurial success, Thomas DeHart elaborates on using specific financial tactics tailored for small businesses. Insight CFO, with its specialization in real estate and the construction industry, offers valuable guidance on optimizing financial management through budget planning, tax strategy, and entity structuring. This episode is brimming with valuable advice for both fledgling and established entrepreneurs seeking to enhance their financial acumen and business operations.

Key Takeaways:

• Educational Path & Career Transition: Thomas transitioned from a Philosophy degree to Accounting, leading to diverse career roles that now fuel his entrepreneurial ventures.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Emphasizes cultivating humility and a forward-thinking approach to be effective in business and personal growth.
• Profit First Strategy: Discusses implementing a multi-account system to ensure businesses manage their finances effectively and with foresight.
• Industry Expertise: Focus on providing accounting solutions for the construction and real estate industries.
• Local Business Advocacy: Advocates for proper management and growth strategies tailored to local businesses in Tennessee, leveraging his extensive regional insights.

Notable Quotes:

• "I'm not afraid to fail. I'm not afraid to give it a shot and do my best."
• "The first thing is budgeting and knowing how much you need to keep the lights on."
• "The challenge is to identify what you can be so passionate about to go out and sell it."
• "Once you attach your value to your time, it clarifies how optimal approaches should be taken."
• "Real estate is what sets you up to be a financial winner in the long run."

Resources:

• Thomas DeHart's Email: thomasitecfo
• LinkedIn: Thomas DeHart on LinkedIn
• Books mentioned include: "Profit First" and "Fix This Next" by Mike Michalowicz
• Insight CFO: Thomas's accounting firm specializing in financial strategies for small businesses

Discover insightful strategies and hear more compelling stories by tuning into the full episode. Stay engaged with the Johnson City Living podcast for more enriching content.

About the Guest:

Cooper Reaves is the Director of Marketing and Government Relations at the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. With a background in advertising and public relations from East Tennessee State University (ETSU), Cooper has progressed from intern to his current full-time role, where he specializes in handling press communications and liaising with legislators at various government levels. Over his career, Cooper has been instrumental in encouraging business development and fostering community connections within the Johnson City region.

Episode Summary:

Join host Colin Johnson as he delves into a robust conversation with Cooper Reaves of the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. In this engaging episode, Cooper shares insights into the chamber's role in economic development, their active recovery efforts following the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, and the revitalization of their 'Region Ahead' initiative aimed at supporting local businesses. This episode not only highlights the chamber's commitment to marketing, workforce development, and business advocacy but also showcases the dynamic potential within the Johnson City community.

Listeners will gain an in-depth understanding of the various initiatives spearheaded by the chamber, including the impactful 'CO.STARTERS' 10-week entrepreneurial program and the 'Young Professionals of Johnson City' network designed to attract and retain emerging talent. With comprehensive discussions on economic strategies, government relations, and the fostering of community solidarity, Cooper Reaves provides a compelling narrative that underscores the vibrant growth occurring within Johnson City. Engage with this insightful episode to learn about the vital roles played by local chambers in sustaining business health and nurturing community resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• The Johnson City Chamber of Commerce has mobilized efforts, including the 'Region Ahead' initiative, to support businesses affected by natural disasters.
• 'CO.STARTERS,' a ten-week entrepreneurial development course, is pivotal in equipping budding business owners with crucial skills and resources.
• The need for event venues and family-friendly attractions in Johnson City presents opportunities for future business development.
• Workforce development and retaining young professionals are at the forefront of the chamber's strategic goals.
• Cooper Reaves emphasizes the importance of community collaboration and government relations in promoting a pro-business legislative environment.

Notable Quotes:

• "We're raising money. We've raised already over $250,000 launched on Saturday. So a couple of days, we've already raised over $250,000, which is going to be huge for our region's small businesses."
• "I love it here. All my family is here…this is where I think the best people in our country are sitting, right here."
• "CO.STARTERS is our ten-week entrepreneur development course…we'll show you. This is how you build your business."
• "We're not your granddad's chamber anymore…we say it a lot…we're just really diving into what affects businesses right now, and that's AI marketing, technology trainings."
• "Knowing that we live in a community that stands shoulder to shoulder, arm to arm, understands the definition of what a neighbor is, understands what a community is supposed to be about."

Resources:

• Region Ahead Initiative
• Johnson City Chamber of Commerce: Website
• CO.STARTERS Program
• Young Professionals of Johnson City
• Cloudwise Academy

Dive into the full episode to explore these themes and understand how the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce is making strides towards economic growth and community resilience. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the podcast series!