The Best of LKN

In this episode of The Best of LKN, Jeff sits down with Amy from The Christian Mission to spotlight the nonprofit’s 85 years of service in southern Iredell County. Amy shares her journey from ministry and development roles to leading impactful programs at the Mission.  Listeners will learn about the organization’s wide range of services—from crisis assistance, food pantry, and resource store to li...

In this episode of the Best of LKN podcast, Jeff interviews Mike Yarbrough, the founder of Rustic & Main, a unique jewelry business specializing in handmade rings.  Mike shares his journey from being a software developer to becoming an entrepreneur, detailing the inspiration behind Rustic & Main, the growth of the business, and the importance of community connections.  He also discusses th...

In this episode of The Best of LKN podcast, Jeff welcomes Ellen from Vine by Viridien, a new concept store focused on outdoor living spaces.  They discuss the importance of outdoor living, the products and services offered, and the design consultation process.  Ellen shares insights about community engagement through events and the unique lifestyle in the Lake Norman area.  The conversation also t...

In this episode of The Best of LKN, Jeff sits down with Ty Martin, a recent transplant to the Lake Norman area who has quickly immersed himself in the local community. Ty shares his background in commercial real estate, his move from the Northeast to Mooresville, and how he’s building a thriving career with Keller Williams Commercial. Beyond real estate, Ty introduces his passion project: Nightclu...

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Laura and John Tice, the husband-and-wife duo behind TICE Studios, a Lake Norman–based video, photography, and audio production company. They share their journey from musicianship and agency work to launching a full-service production studio that helps small businesses and nonprofits tell compelling stories. Tice Studios Books mentioned: Start With Why  by Simo...

In this episode of The Best of LKN , Jeff welcomes Katelyn Graham, founder and CEO of The Admin Effect, a Cornelius-based firm serving independent financial advisors nationwide. Katelyn shares her journey from broadcasting to financial services, and how a life-changing experience inspired her to launch her own agency. She explains how The Admin Effect supports advisors with virtual operations, tea...

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In this episode of The Best of LKN Podcast, Jeff sits down with Sara Lynn Brennan, founder and CEO of Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors.  Sara shares her journey from teaching biology to building one of Charlotte’s premier luxury interior design firms.  She opens up about her organic start on Instagram, the pivotal role COVID played in her business growth, and the importance of authentic storytelling in...

In this episode of The Best of LKN , Jeff sits down with Mariano Doble, owner of the Davidson Village Inn and founder of Vine Society.  Mariano shares the inspiring story of how he and his wife turned a lifelong dream of owning a boutique inn into reality, their instant connection with Davidson, and the philosophy of “true hospitality” that keeps guests returning year after year.  He also introduc...

Jeff sits down with Valerie Mano, owner of Fully Promoted Lake Norman in Cornelius, NC.  Valerie shares her journey from France to the Caribbean to Lake Norman, and how she transitioned from a career in physical therapy to running a thriving promotional products and embroidery business.  They discuss the services Fully Promoted offers—custom embroidery, branded apparel, promotional items—and how V...

In this episode of The Best of LKN , Jeff Hamm chats with Chelsea Kowalski, the creative force behind two standout Instagram accounts: @LakeNormanExploring and @FollowOurCompass.  Chelsea shares how she transitioned from a career in accounting to content creation, her journey into social media management, and the growth of her local and travel brands. Topics Covered: Chelsea’s move from upstate NY...

In this episode of The Best of LKN , Jeff visits Skybrook Golf Club in Huntersville to chat with General Manager Matt Hill, a PGA professional with deep roots in the golf industry.  Matt shares his journey from aspiring pro to club leader, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at Skybrook’s vibrant community, semi-private model, and exciting new amenity: Toptracer. Skybrook Golf Club 14720 Northgree...

In this episode, Jeff welcomes Morgan Bernard (Store Manager) and Sloan Adler (Assistant Manager) from PostNet Cornelius.  As long-time collaborators and community champions, Morgan and Sloan share how PostNet serves as a one-stop-shop for local businesses—offering everything from shipping and mailboxes to graphic design, printing, and marketing support. The conversation dives into their personal...

Shawn Jessup and Bryan Lawson of XHALE Construction discuss their journey into the construction industry, focusing on high performance homes. They emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to home building, which prioritizes health, comfort, and energy efficiency.  The conversation also covers their backgrounds, the significance of awards in the industry, and the detailed process they follow...

In this episode, we explore the journey of Lori Savio, the owner of Home, Heart & Soul, a boutique design business in Lake Norman.  Lori shares her transition from Florida to the Carolinas, the challenges and triumphs of building her business, and her commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs.  The conversation highlights the importance of community, collaboration, and the personal connecti...

In this episode, Jeff interviews Sarah Rubens, the founder of Seed to Sanctuary, a business focused on creating beautiful and edible kitchen gardens.  Sarah shares her journey from Washington State to North Carolina, her passion for gardening, and the therapeutic benefits of growing your own food. She discusses her unique approach to gardening, emphasizing the importance of integrating gardens int...

In this inspiring episode, Harold Rice shares his personal journey from growing up in Charlotte to leading one of Lake Norman’s most impactful nonprofits. As CEO of the Ada Jenkins Center, Harold explains how his background in social work and deep ties to the community have shaped his passion for service. Harold walks us through the center’s five core programs—education, economic mobility, homeles...

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Shauntae Funkhouser, a financial advisor with A4 Wealth Advisors in Huntersville, NC. Shauntae shares her journey from healthcare to finance, her passion for helping clients navigate retirement and complex financial decisions, and her unique specialization in divorce financial planning.   She discusses how A4 Wealth offers a comprehensive, in-house approach to...

In this episode, Jeff sits down on location at Town Hall Provisions, a cozy new pub nestled in the heart of Cornelius, NC, just steps from 131 Main. He’s joined by co-owner and head of kitchen operations Anthony, and marketing lead Erika, for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the area's most exciting new hospitality concepts. In this conversation, you’ll learn: The story behind Town Hall Pro...

In this episode of The Best of LKN, Jeff sits down with Whitney Dove, the founder of Bean Catcher—a retro-inspired mobile espresso business serving the Lake Norman area.  Whitney shares her journey from growing up in Washington state’s coffee culture to launching her own business in a renovated 1970s camper, lovingly towed by a vintage truck named Clementine. They discuss her background, the leap...

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Alan Beulah, the Charlotte Area President for MI Homes, to discuss the builder’s legacy, mission, and local impact.  Alan shares his journey from psychology major to homebuilding executive, the importance of culture and customer experience at MI Homes, and the company’s long-term commitment to serving families in the Charlotte and Lake Norman regions. They dive...

In this episode, Jeff interviews Jonathan Kepner, the owner of Romeo's Pizza in Davidson. They discuss Jonathan's entrepreneurial journey, the unique offerings of Romeo's Pizza, including their homemade dough and sweet sauce, and the challenges faced during the launch.  Jonathan shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of networking and community...

In this episode of The Best of LKN podcast, Kellie Grutko, founder of Purposeful Pivot, shares her journey from a corporate marketing career to establishing her coaching business aimed at helping women navigate career transitions.  She discusses the challenges she faced, the inspiration behind her business, and the services she offers, including one-on-one coaching and future retreats.  Kellie emp...

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Eileen Stoner, a seasoned financial advisor and principal of The Stoner Group at Morgan Stanley, to explore her unique journey from neonatal nursing to guiding clients through retirement and divorce financial planning. Eileen brings 28 years of experience in wealth management and a deep passion for helping individuals—especially women—gain confidence and clarit...

In this episode, Logan Sandate, founder of Girl Power Flag Football Mooresville, shares her journey of starting a youth flag football league for girls in the Lake Norman area. She discusses her athletic background, the inspiration behind creating the league, and the importance of providing opportunities for girls in sports.  The conversation highlights the community impact of youth sports, the acc...