In this episode, we sit down with Huntsville native Ricky Fernandez, the Marketing Promotions Director and Game Day MC for the Rocket City Trash Pandas. From producing morning radio shows to selling chicken out of a truck during COVID, Ricky shares his winding journey to becoming the voice and energy behind one of Minor League Baseball’s most exciting franchises.We dive into:The early days of the Trash Pandas and the challenge of launching during a pandemicHow Town Madison’s growth has fueled th...
Jul 22, 2025•27 min
In this re-release episode, we sit down with Dr. Nemil Shah, physician and co-founder of ApproXie Urgent Care, to revisit one of our most inspiring conversations to date. Dr. Shah shares his journey from growing up in Huntsville to building one of the area’s most innovative healthcare brands—starting with a buggy app idea, $5,000 in the bank, and a leased former Dairy Queen. We dive into how ApproXie began as a software solution to reduce patient wait times, how he and his wife bootstrapped thei...
Jul 15, 2025•35 min
In this episode of Beyond Rockets , host Clark Dunn chats with Kamerra Liles, Assistant General Manager at The Orion Amphitheater and operations lead for the newly revived The Lumberyard in Huntsville. Kamerra shares her journey from community events in Hawaii to shaping Huntsville’s hospitality scene with TVG Hospitality. She dives into the transformation of The Lumberyard—from historic lumberyard to vibrant event space—and how it’s now home to live music, pop-ups, cocktail classes, and more. L...
Jul 08, 2025•22 min
In this episode, Emily Jones shares how she went from nursing to launching The Dirty Olive, Huntsville’s popular new bar and lounge. She talks about starting with a mobile tap trailer, transforming a former downtown space into a photogenic cocktail spot, and the lessons she’s learned as a first-time business owner. We cover growing a brand through social media, balancing creativity with operations, and tips for anyone ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship.https://www.thedirtyolivetap.comh...
Jul 01, 2025•21 min
In this episode, I sit down with Victoria Pittman, Marketing Manager for Power Brands Hospitality Group, to talk about the launch of their newest concept: One Eleven, a refined and experiential restaurant located in the heart of downtown Huntsville. We explore the fast-paced six-month journey that transformed the former Heritage Club into a vibrant destination known for its upscale atmosphere, innovative cocktails, and thoughtful menu design. Victoria shares her background in restaurant consulti...
Jun 24, 2025•25 min
Originally released in 2023, this episode features a conversation with Dennis Madsen, Manager of Long-Range and Urban Planning for the City of Huntsville. As we revisit this insightful discussion, you'll hear about the vision, strategy, and development shaping Huntsville's rapid growth. From key projects in the pipeline to the challenges of balancing supply and demand in the housing market, Dennis offers a comprehensive look at where the Rocket City is headed. Whether you’re new to Huntsville or...
Jun 17, 2025•55 min
In this episode, we reconnect with Maddie and Tom Watkins, owners of Moon Bakeshop in downtown Huntsville. Since opening their doors in 2019—just one week before welcoming their first child—the couple has built more than just a bakery. They've built a community staple.We talk about the early days of Moon, the challenges of starting a business with no prior experience, and how they weathered the uncertainty of COVID-19 through grit, creativity, and the support of their loyal customers. Tom shares...
Jun 10, 2025•42 min
In this episode, we sit down with Tennessee Valley Living host Payton Walker to hear how a high school broadcast team sparked a passion that turned into a career in front of the camera. Originally from Charlotte, Payton shares how her love for storytelling and theater led her to UNC, early sports reporting, and eventually anchoring the weekend news in Huntsville right out of college. She opens up about the tough realities of 3 a.m. news shifts, launching a brand-new show during COVID, and how Te...
Jun 03, 2025•33 min
In this episode, we sit down with Brandi Edmonds, owner of The Wine Cellar in Huntsville, Alabama. Brandi shares her remarkable journey from protein crystallography and a career in healthcare to chronic migraine recovery and eventually owning one of Huntsville’s most iconic wine shops. We explore how The Wine Cellar has grown into a welcoming, unpretentious space for wine lovers of all experience levels. Brandi opens up about the transition from customer to owner, the role of community in wine e...
May 27, 2025•27 min
In this special re-release episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with Mike Wicks—Huntsville native, fourth-generation rocket scientist, and serial entrepreneur. Mike takes us through his journey from mechanical engineering at Auburn to co-oping with the Army, launching and selling multiple defense contracting firms, and building I³ into one of the nation’s fastest-growing government contractors. He shares insight on leadership, company culture, and how forward-thinking strategy helped him ...
May 20, 2025•43 min
🎶 We get it—not every band will be your favorite. But that’s not the point. The After 5 Concert Series at Campus No. 805 is all about the experience. Good food, local vendors, great drinks, and a laid-back spot to hang with friends—even if you’ve never heard the band before, you might walk away with a new favorite.
May 13, 2025•26 min
In this episode, we sit down with Alka Chain, owner of Vintage Cigar Lounge and Nitro Tails , to explore her journey as a Huntsville native and lifelong entrepreneur. From growing up in the iconic Madison Square Mall to building Huntsville’s first cigar lounge, Alka shares how her family's deep roots in small business shaped her passion for hospitality and experience-driven retail. We talk about the evolution of cigar culture in Huntsville, the rise of bourbon and cigar pairings, and how Vintage...
May 06, 2025•22 min
In this episode, we sit down with Chef Kristen, Executive Chef and General Manager of The Poppy & Parliament and The Salty Cod. She shares her journey from getting her start in a small New York restaurant at 14 to building two standout culinary destinations in North Alabama. We dive into her unexpected path through food science and government research, how she landed in Huntsville during the height of the pandemic, and the grit it took to open The Poppy & Parliament in 2020. Kristen walk...
Apr 29, 2025•40 min
This episode originally aired in 2021. We sat down to talk with Bill Roark co-founder of Torch Technologies which is a 100% employee-owned system engineering, applied science, modeling & simulation, and information technology business. We discuss his background before Torch, the early years of Torch, and the ways in which Torch is looking to give back to the community for years to come.
Apr 22, 2025•1 hr 5 min
In this episode, we sit down with Tim and Oscar, the duo behind Nicas Grill , a Nicaraguan-American fusion food truck that’s become a favorite across Huntsville and Madison. Tim and Oscar share how they transitioned from full-time careers to building a family-run business that’s now a regular at NASA, Research Park, and The Orion Amphitheater. They discuss their culinary roots, the evolution of their menu, and how they tailor their offerings to different events and audiences. From meeting music ...
Apr 15, 2025•18 min
In this episode, we sit down with Cody Morgan and Jamie Muñoz, the powerhouse duo behind Octo Hospitality and Blue Oak BBQ in Huntsville’s MidCity District. Originally from New Orleans, Cody and Jamie share how their early roots in the restaurant industry shaped their approach to hospitality, community, and culture. We dive into their journey from Bourbon Street to North Alabama, their first impressions of Huntsville, and the serendipitous meeting that led to their now-signature events at The Ca...
Apr 08, 2025•38 min
Huntsville’s history is full of fascinating stories—some well-known, others nearly forgotten. In this episode, we sit down with SuAnne Griffith, creator of Lily Flagg's Signal Podcast , to talk about her passion for uncovering the city’s past. From growing up in small-town Gurley to earning multiple engineering degrees and even teaching as a professor, Su Ann’s journey eventually led her back to Huntsville, where she now shares local history through podcasting, social media, and community storyt...
Mar 27, 2025•29 min
In this episode, we sit down with Ashli and Michaela of AM Collective to talk about their journey from childhood friends to business partners, growing their creative space from a small shop in Clinton Row to their expansive new storefront in South Huntsville. They share how their impulsive decision to start a business, their deep-rooted connection to the Huntsville community, and a few unexpected twists along the way led them to where they are today. From navigating business growth during the pa...
Mar 20, 2025•25 min
In this episode, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle shares his journey of calling Huntsville home for over 40 years and reflects on the city’s growth and transformation. He discusses the unique blend of lifelong residents and newcomers who contribute to Huntsville’s dynamic community. Mayor Battle highlights how the city thrives when everyone, from planners to everyday citizens, plays a role in shaping its future. We explore how ideas from other communities help drive progress while preserving what m...
Mar 05, 2025•44 min
The craft beer and spirits scene in Huntsville is thriving, and Yellowhammer Brewing is right at the heart of it. In this episode, Ethan Couch shares how the rise of bourbon and barrel-aged spirits is shaping their taproom experience—because what’s ‘smooth’ for one person might be something completely different for another. But it’s not just about what’s in your glass—it’s about the whole experience. That’s where Campus 805 After 5 comes in. Ethan dives into this exciting, free concert series ki...
Feb 27, 2025•31 min
What if a simple box of Kleenex or a stack of Expo markers could change a classroom? 🏫✏️ In this episode, Alison Kling, CEO of Free 2 Teach, shares how this incredible organization is equipping educators with the supplies they need—completely free of charge. From giving away 32,000 books last year to fostering a culture of joy and hospitality, Free 2 Teach is bridging the gap between teachers and the resources they deserve. Tune in to hear how teacher-driven initiatives are shaping classrooms, ...
Feb 18, 2025•46 min
Mental health care is at a turning point, and innovation is leading the way. In this episode, we sit down with John Schmitt, CEO of iXpressGenes, to explore how his company is pioneering a groundbreaking test that could revolutionize mental health treatment in Alabama as early as February or March. With PTSD affecting 7-12% of the population and mental health costs soaring to $230 billion in the U.S., early intervention is more critical than ever. John shares how iXpressGenes’ technology has the...
Feb 06, 2025•36 min
The creative community in Huntsville is buzzing with energy, and Sugar Pusher is right in the middle of it all. In this episode, she shares her journey of staying true to her creative vision while navigating the ever-evolving world of Instagram and balancing growth with authenticity. We dive into Huntsville’s artistic rise, the ripple effect of community-driven success, and how local talent is finding the courage to turn their passions into thriving careers. Whether you’re a creative entrepreneu...
Jan 28, 2025•49 min
On our newest episode, we’re joined by Ryan Diehl of Remnant Framing! Ryan shares his journey of moving from California to Huntsville, Alabama, and how his 17 years with Trader Joe's made the transition smoother. 🛒 We also dive into the upcoming gallery reception at Remnant Framing on January 25th, featuring original works by Yuri Ozaki and winter wave prints by Matt Bender of Studio 101 at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. This episode is all about art, community, and making Huntsville home....
Jan 16, 2025•20 min
Jason Fish's Links https://www.schooleymitchell.com/office/jfish/ https://vetrepreneur.com/experiences/jason-fish-from-infantry-officer-to-franchise-ownership-success/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonrfish/ https://www.facebook.com/schooleymitchelljfish Sponsor Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alco...
Jan 09, 2025•1 hr 12 min
In this episode, we sit down with Joseph Pelfrey, Director at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, to explore the groundbreaking work being done at Marshall and its pivotal role in advancing space exploration. We also dive into the exciting events planned for 2025, marking the 65th anniversary of this iconic institution. Join us as we celebrate innovation, history, and the future of space exploration. https://www.nasa.gov/marshall/ Sponsor This episode is shot and produced by Bard and Glass. Bar...
Dec 10, 2024•36 min
In this episode of the podcast, Ashley Hunt-Poole shares the inspiring story behind Mocktails for Mommy, a passion project that evolved into a movement impacting countless lives. Initially created as a personal outlet for motivation and creativity, Mocktails for Mommy has grown into a platform that empowers others, fosters community, and promotes healthy, alcohol-free living. Ashley reflects on the unexpected support she's received, the personal growth she's experienced, and the profound impact ...
Dec 05, 2024•41 min
In this episode, we sit down with Kyle Husband to explore the story behind The Little Green Store, a unique art space with deep family roots. Kyle shares memories of his grandmother, Betty Grisham, a regionally renowned artist known for her hand-painted fabrics, and how her former studio has evolved into a vibrant hub for the Huntsville community. He also talks about his mission to provide a space where people can discover unique, locally crafted pieces. Plus, with the holiday season approaching...
Nov 21, 2024•19 min
In this episode, we sit down with Maddie Cimino of Maddie’s Cookies to dive into the sweet journey of balancing college life and a growing cookie business. Maddie shares how nationwide shipping has transformed their operations, opening up new opportunities and landing them their largest corporate order yet—5,200 cookies for the holiday season! 🍪🎄 Despite the busy semester at Auburn, Maddie finds time to stay hands-on with her business, thanks to a flexible class schedule and the incredible sup...
Nov 14, 2024•21 min
Catch Amanda Deason of Barre3 Huntsville as she shares her journey of leadership and learning—empowering her team and members alike. From personalized fitness to navigating entrepreneurship, Amanda’s insights are all about growth, strength, and community. Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify! Barre3 Links https://online.barre3.com/studio-locations/huntsville https://www.instagram.com/barre3huntsvilleal/ Sponsor ReLogic is an Engineering, Aerospace, and Technology company dedicated to solvin...
Nov 05, 2024•23 min
