The Best of LKN

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...

In this episode of The Best of Lake Norman podcast, Doak Turner shares his inspiring journey from feeling lost after high school to discovering his passion in the music and radio industry.  He discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the influence of music, the importance of identity, and the therapeutic process of writing his book, 'A Crazy Journey.'  Doak emphasi...

In this episode, Jason Julian, founder of Reign Moving Solutions, shares his journey from a corporate job to entrepreneurship in the moving industry. He discusses the importance of customer service, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the growth of his business through referrals.  Jason emphasizes the significance of building trust with clients and maintaining personal connections as the...

In this episode of The Best of LKN podcast, Jeff interviews Dominick Thompson, the founder of Watershed Builders. They discuss the growth of the Lake Norman area, Dom's unique journey from the automotive industry to construction, and the impact of his military experience on his business.  Dom shares insights on launching his company and the importance of adapting to the local economy. He also...

In this episode of The Best of LKN podcast, Jeff interviews Katie Moscovitch, the owner of Pure Barre in Birkdale Village.  Katie shares her journey from a love of fitness and physical therapy to opening her own Pure Barre studio. She discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the importance of community, and what newcomers can expect from a Pure Barre class.  Katie also offers valu...

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Elza Spaedy, founder of Healed and Restored, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women and girls recover from trauma.  Elza shares her personal story of overcoming childhood abuse and how it led her to create a supportive community for victims of domestic violence, trafficking, and other forms of trauma.  The conversation emphasizes th...

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Annsley and Amelia, the owners of Whit's Frozen Custard in Lake Norman, North Carolina. They share their backgrounds, the unique offerings of their custard shop, and the challenges and rewards of business ownership.  With a focus on fresh ingredients and community engagement, Whit’s has become a beloved local franchise. The conversation highlights the impo...

In this episode of the Best of LKN podcast, Dr. Sophia Dalabakis shares her journey as a physical therapist specializing in Parkinson's care. She discusses her background, education, and the importance of quality patient care.  Sophia highlights her work with the nonprofit Up Ending Parkinson's, which focuses on rock climbing as a therapeutic activity for patients. She expresses her pass...