The Southern Shmooze

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze , Grant sits down with Savannah, founder of Halo House. They talk about creating beautiful, intentional spaces that truly feel like home, the power of thoughtful interior design, and how great design can improve the way we live every day. Savannah shares how she got started, her design philosophy, and what it’s like building a business centered around helpin...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze , Grant sits down with Charlie Mancini , founder of C. Grain Furniture . They talk about the art of handcrafted furniture, what goes into building heirloom-quality pieces, and why solid wood craftsmanship still matters in today’s world. Charlie shares how he got started, his approach to custom design, and what it’s like turning a passion for woodworking into...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze, Grant sits down with Ben Morris, owner of Rescue Restoration of Atlanta. They talk about what it takes to restore homes and businesses after water damage, fire damage, mold issues, and other unexpected disasters. Ben shares stories from the field, explains how homeowners can prepare for emergencies, and offers practical advice for navigating the restoration...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze, Grant sits down with Bentley Hudgins. They talk about grass-roots community organizing, human rights, the power of standing up for our neighbors, and how everyday people can make a lasting positive impact right here in Atlanta. Bentley shares their journey as a community builder and advocate, discussing how we can work together to support local working fami...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze, Grant sits down with Taylor Schultz of Native Scapes. They talk about sustainable landscaping, native plants, creating beautiful outdoor spaces that support local ecosystems, and how homeowners can make a positive impact right in their own backyards. Taylor shares how Native Scapes helps people transform traditional lawns into thriving, environmentally frie...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze, Grant sits down with Brendon Ford of YourHandymanAtlanta.com . They talk about the world of handyman work, home repairs, what goes into delivering reliable service, how Brendon got started with Your Handyman Atlanta, and what it takes to build a trusted business through strong customer relationships and quality work. It’s a great conversation about entrepre...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze, Grant sits down with Colton of Old Pine Decks. They talk about the world of deck building, screen-in porches, what goes into creating beautiful outdoor spaces, how Colton got started with Old Pine Decks, and how to run 6 crews as a side job! It’s a great conversation about craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and building a business through quality work and str...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze, Grant sits down with Ashton Walker of FOCUS Atlanta—who also leads Loaves & Fishes , a local soup kitchen serving the Atlanta community by feeding, clothing, and supporting the unhoused. They talk about the day-to-day reality of running a soup kitchen, the impact of showing up consistently for people in need, and how Ashton got involved with FOCUS Atlan...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze , Grant sits down with Michelle Parravani of Designing with Less, an Atlanta-based professional organizer helping homeowners simplify their spaces and create more functional, stress-free homes. They talk about what it really looks like to declutter, how Michelle got started, and practical ways to make your home feel more manageable without getting overwhelme...

In this episode of The Southern Shmooze , Grant sits down with Lane Thurman of ESO Projects, an Atlanta-based builder focused on thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and custom residential work. They talk about what goes into a successful build, how Lane approaches projects differently, and what homeowners should know before starting renovations or construction. From planning and budgeting to...

In this first episode of The Southern Shmooze, Grant sits down with Forrest Smith of Smith Home Services, a local Atlanta handyman helping homeowners tackle everything from small repairs to bigger home projects. They talk about what it’s really like running a local service business, how Forrest got started, and what homeowners should look for when hiring someone they can trust. If you’ve ever need...