Summary In this episode of Meet Me In Tennessee, host Jenna explores the vibrant hospitality scene in Northeast Tennessee with guests Joel Dalhauser from the Carnegie Hotel and Ramona Jackson from MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center. They discuss the unique offerings of their hotels, share personal experiences with guests, and highlight local attractions and festivals. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry and upcoming events in King...
May 23, 2025•32 min•Ep. 30
Exploring Northeast Tennessee's Outdoor Wonders with Naturalist Connie Deegan In this episode of 'Meet Me in Tennessee,' hosts Jenna Lafever and Lara Potter welcome guest Connie Deegan, a renowned naturalist and Tennessee Wildlife Federation's Conservation Educator of the Year. Connie shares her journey from Connecticut to Johnson City, TN, and talks about her passion for the outdoors, hiking, and her love for snakes. The discussion covers favorite hiking spots, the importance of outdoor educati...
Apr 04, 2025•33 min•Ep. 29
Uncovering the True Origins of the Long Island Iced Tea In this episode of the Season Three premiere, hosts Lara and Jenna take listeners on a journey through Tennessee's rich history with a surprising twist—the true origins of the Long Island Iced Tea. Joined by award-winning bartender Shane Winegar, they uncover the drink's Prohibition-era roots in Kingsport, Tennessee, not in New York as commonly believed. The team discusses the evolution of the recipe, competitions between Tennessee and New ...
Feb 17, 2025•33 min•Ep. 28
About the Guest: Jose Castillo is a dynamic host, emcee, speaker, and entrepreneur based in Johnson City, Tennessee. With a rich background that includes hosting NASCAR races, making salsa on stage for business audiences, and recently serving as a host for Team USA during the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, Jose inspires others with his mission to "add flavor, connect people, and change the world." Known for his love of spicy ideas and eccentric activities, Jose is a well-respected figure in...
Jan 10, 2025•44 min•Ep. 27
About the Guests: Chapel Hart : Chapel Hart is a dynamic country music trio hailing from Mississippi, featuring sisters Danica and Devynn Hart, and their cousin Trea Swindle. They gained widespread acclaim after being named to CMT's Next Women of Country in 2021 and have been recognized internationally, earning titles like International Group of the Year. Their notable performances include an appearance on America’s Got Talent and frequent shows at the Grand Ole Opry, a testament to their talent...
Dec 06, 2024•37 min•Ep. 26
About the Guest: Josh Mancuso is a Tennessee-based actor, comedian, and social media sensation known for his hilarious college sports videos and Coach Lance character. With a background in marketing and video production, Josh has leveraged his comedic talents into a growing career in the entertainment industry. His viral videos have earned him millions of views and opportunities to collaborate with notable figures in sports and entertainment. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "Meet Me...
Nov 01, 2024•39 min•Ep. 25
About the Guest: Chris Stipo is the Operations Manager at Tri Cities Airport, where he is responsible for airfield compliance, wildlife management, snow removal, and future development planning. With a Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management from Jacksonville University and a Master's in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Chris has a diverse background in the aviation industry, having previously worked in various roles in airports across San Antonio, Ashe...
Sep 06, 2024•35 min•Ep. 24
About the Guest: Dr. Rene Rodgers is the Head Curator for the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. With an extensive background in history, culminating in a Ph.D., Rene has a profound understanding and passion for the story of early commercial country music, particularly the 1927 Bristol Sessions, which hold a significant place in American music history. Her experience in museum education and curation is evident in the impactful exhibits and programs she leads at the museum. Episode Summary: In t...
May 17, 2024•46 min•Ep. 23
About the Guest: Emily Thompson brings a festive spirit to her vital role as the Director of Funfest and Special Events with Visit Kingsport. Born and raised in Kingsport, Tennessee, Emily has a deep-seated love for the community event that she has been part of since her childhood. With her profound commitment and enthusiasm, she orchestrates the intricate details of organizing the celebrated festival, ensuring it remains a beacon of community unity and joy. Her contributions have been vital in ...
May 03, 2024•24 min•Ep. 22
About the Guest: Courtney Bean serves as the Main Street Director for Main Street Elizabethton, working under the auspices of the City of Elizabethton, Tennessee. With a commitment to downtown revitalization and community engagement, Courtney has been at the forefront of steering the city towards a unified vision for development. Main Street Elizabethton is part of the national Main Street program, which focuses on enhancing the quality and economic potential of small-town Main Streets. Her role...
Apr 26, 2024•42 min•Ep. 21
About the Guest: Heather Watson is the Vice President of Education and Exhibits at Hands On Discovery Center, located in Northeast Tennessee. Heather holds an essential role in the institution, overseeing the educational aspects, exhibits, and community events at the center. With an emphasis on creating an engaging environment that blends fun with learning, Heather has been instrumental in helping visitors of all ages to explore and enjoy the wonders of science. Under her leadership, the center ...
Apr 19, 2024•38 min•Ep. 20
About the Guests: In this episode, we dive into the world with Jared Collins and Garrett Ware, the dynamic duo behind Motion Creative Media, based out of Greeneville, Tennessee. Hailing from childhood friends to professional collaborators, these two have transformed their passion for photography and videography into a thriving business. Along the journey from sports enthusiasts to media mavens, they rediscovered their common interest which led to the accidental inception of their company — start...
Apr 12, 2024•50 min•Ep. 19
The Wonders of Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium This episode of the 'Meet Me in Tennessee' podcast features a discussion with Tyler Wicks, the Chief Ranger, and Adam Thanz, the Planetarium Director, from Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium in Kingsport, Tennessee. They detail the park's attractions, including a 44-acre lake, hiking and mountain bike trails, a nature center, a state-of-the-art planetarium theater, and animal habitats. The dialogue covers the park’s history, conservation efforts,...
Mar 15, 2024•52 min•Ep. 18
On this episode of 'Meet Me in Tennessee,' host Allie has a conversation with Kayla Carter and Noah Naseri, two passionate outdoor enthusiasts who share their journey hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2014. Recounting their experiences, they offer insights into their unique 'backcountry bunk bed' sleeping arrangement, the importance of adapting and being kind to oneself, and the sense of community they found on the trail. Kayla and Noah also discuss the importance of being responsible stewards of ...
Feb 23, 2024•47 min•Ep. 17
In this engaging discussion with Leslie Morgan and Chris Joyner from the USDA Forest Service, the mission of the Forest Service and its multi-use approach towards the Cherokee National Forest is dissected. From timber harvesting, wildlife conservation to recreation, the conversation navigates through the involvement of volunteer groups in forest maintenance, the challenges of land management, and future plans. The term 'Disney effect' is explored noting the misconception of the reality of the ou...
Feb 16, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 16
About the Guests: Molly Boyd serves as the Tourism Director with the Greene County Partnership, which oversees a diverse array of programs, including the Chamber of Commerce, to youth and adult leadership initiatives, and economic development. Her personal interests in homesteading, hiking, and mountain biking align well with the region's agricultural and historical significance. Jesse Boswell, on the other hand, is the Marketing Coordinator at the General Morgan Inn, engaging in varied visitor ...
Feb 09, 2024•44 min•Ep. 15
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Austin Finch to discuss the relationship with tourism and economic development. He offers his unique insight into the topic through his experience working on the development of Erwin TN. Thanks for listening! To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org Produced by Mitch McGarry of Maypop Media
Dec 08, 2023•39 min•Ep. 14
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Paula Augustine and Alec Castro, both of which are involved in promoting art in the region! Alec works with Visit Johnson City and Paula owns the August Muse in Elizabethton. Thanks for listening! Links from episode: https://visitjohnsoncitytn.com/ https://www.theaugustmuse.com/ To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Oct 20, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 13
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Carley Lester to chat about the importance of education and conservation regarding the local public lands and state parks! Thanks for listening! Links from episode: https://www.rockyforkfriends.org/ https://www.appalachianboulderingcenter.com/ To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Sep 29, 2023•32 min•Ep. 12
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Matt Kyle and Jesse Cheers about the new climbing and bouldering facility The Appalachian Bouldering Center! This will be a great addition to the area, so if you are a climber or interested in climbing, go check them out! Thanks for listening! Links from episode: https://www.climbcentralappalachia.com/ https://www.appalachianboulderingcenter.com/ To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
May 26, 2023•28 min•Ep. 11
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Kayla Nichols from the Appalachian Resource Conservation and Development Council. They discuss the mission of Appalachian RC&D and how they are striving to educate and support local farmers, and improve the food system! Thanks for listening! Links from episode: https://arcd.org/ To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Apr 14, 2023•25 min•Ep. 10
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Dr. Brian Noland, President of East Tennessee State University. They discuss his background, some of the happenings at ETSU, and how the university has impacted tourism in Northeast Tennessee! Thanks for listening! Connect with Dr. Brian Noland: https://www.etsu.edu/president/bio.php To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Mar 10, 2023•39 min•Ep. 9
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Taylor Klarman of River Run Angling. They discuss the beauty of fishing in this area, and Taylor's experiences running a fishing guide business! Thanks for listening! Connect with Taylor: https://riverrunangling.com/ More Info on Tennessee Songwriters Week: https://industry.tnvacation.com/tennessee-songwriters-week To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Feb 17, 2023•41 min•Ep. 8
On today's episode, Allie sits down with Jacob Danielsen-Moore to discuss the upcoming Tennessee Songwriters Week and his musical journey as a songwriter. Thanks for listening! Listen to Jacob's Latest Music: https://jacobdanielsenmoore.bandcamp.com/ More Info on Tennessee Songwriters Week: https://industry.tnvacation.com/tennessee-songwriters-week To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Jan 27, 2023•47 min•Ep. 7
On today's episode, new host Allie, sits down with Katie Houston to discuss an app she helped develop called FytFeed. You can download FytFeed from your app store on any compatible smart device. For more information visit https://fytfeed.com/ Thanks for listening! To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Dec 16, 2022•27 min•Ep. 6
On today's episode Sabrina talks with Bob Dunn, a tour guide in Jonesborough TN. He does historical tours downtown and shares some of his experiences doing that. If you are interested in doing a historical tour, visit https://jonesborough.com/tours/ Thanks for listening! To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Nov 18, 2022•26 min•Ep. 5
On today's episode Sabrina talks with Amel Rugovac about life in his family owned restaurant, Bella Vita. Be sure to stop by if you are in the mood for some delicious Italian food! To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Nov 11, 2022•46 min•Ep. 4
Guest Matt Moses from USA Raft talks about his business, spreading stoke, and beautiful views (and we're not just talking about the raft guides). Thanks for listening! Links: https://usaraft.com/ To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Sep 23, 2022•45 min•Ep. 3
Guest Lottie Young talks about the ins and outs of owning South Holston River Rentals , which are short term rental properties. She also talks about her new business venture Historic Strides of Bristol. https://www.southholstonriverrentals.com/ https://explorebristol.com/heritage/
Aug 26, 2022•27 min•Ep. 2
On today's episode, Sabrina and Mark chat about what Mark does for FTDD, some services provided by the district, and some of the happenings in Northeast Tennessee. Enjoy! To learn more about what Mark discussed, visit www.ftdd.org To learn more about the region, visit northeasttennessee.org
Jul 29, 2022•30 min•Ep. 1
