Infinity and Beyond: Exploring Mississippi's Space Legacy with Michelle Anderson
Bottled Up
In this episode of Bottled Up, host Andrew Allen chats with , CEO and Executive Director of the . They discuss Michelle's background, including her education and journey to the Science Center. Michelle shares the history and development of the Infinity Science Center, starting from its early days as the Stentosphere to its grand opening in 2012. They talk about the center's relationship with NASA's Stennis Space Center, its major fundraisers, and future plans. Michelle touches on exciting new exhibits and her favorite one. They also highlight the center's role in both public education and...
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Exploring Walter Anderson's Legacy: Art, Nature, and Community with Julian Rankin
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen speaks with Julian Rankin, Executive Director of the , about the impact of coastal artist Walter Anderson. They explore Anderson's role in promoting creativity and his misunderstood vision, discuss the museum's growth over the past 30 years, and highlight recent expansions like a new restaurant and green space. Rankin also discusses the museum's educational goals, community engagement, and exciting events like the "Silent Light" festival. They reflect on the resilience shown during Hurricane Katrina and the museum's ongoing efforts to support the creative...
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Building Christmas Magic: Behind the Scenes of Gulfport's Harbor Lights Event
Bottled Up
In this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew interviews Billy Lehman and Alicia Chambless about their roles in organizing events for the city of Gulfport. Billy, the Assistant Director of Leisure Services, and Alicia, the Special Events Coordinator, share their experiences and backgrounds. They discuss the history and growth of the , a massive Christmas light display in Gulfport's Jones Park. The event has grown significantly since it started in 2015, featuring over 2 million lights, Santa's Village, and various food vendors. They talk about the planning process, which begins more than a year in...
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Transforming Main Street: Kristen Garriga's Vision for Gulfport
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen chats with , executive director of the . Kristen shares her journey from volunteering to help businesses with social media during COVID to establishing her own LLC and taking a vital role in revitalizing downtown Gulfport. We learn about her work with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce and her efforts in real estate marketing. Kristen discusses organizing events like ViewThe Coast, Gunbo Fest, and the upcoming concert series. She also highlights challenges like vacant properties and high insurance costs and outlines plans for more retail, residential...
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Halloween Magic and Green Thumbs with Kiowa Walley
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen chats with Kiowa Walley, a seasoned hair colorist, landscaper, and Halloween enthusiast. Kiowa shares his love for gardening, growing tomatoes, peppers, peas, and watermelons, and discusses the changing nature of outdoor activities across generations. He talks about running a landscaping business, stressing planning and relationships. Kiowa, who started in the landscaping field about ten years ago, also recounts organizing "WalleyWeen," a neighborhood Halloween tradition supporting local charities. He explains how the event evolved, involving themed rooms and...
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Exploring Music, Real Estate and Charity with John Carter
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen talks to John Carter about his journey from casino worker to real estate expert and charity founder. John shares heartfelt memories of his late aunt, who battled triple-negative breast cancer, inspiring him to start . The charity hosts events like the "" to support cancer patients. John also discusses his family's Blackjack Ranch, known for Wagyu beef, and his passion for music, which led him to form a band. Learn about his ventures in real estate with Century 21 and his new interest in sneaker conventions. Tune in for an impactful episode filled with community...
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Family, Friendships and Fizz With Charles Duggan and Junior Estes Graves
Bottled Up
Andrew Allen welcomes guests Charles Duggan and Junior Estes Graves in this episode. They discuss changes in work ethic and communication in today's workforce, emphasizing the need for face-to-face interaction. Andrew shares a crucial lesson about building confidence he learned on the job. The group reminisces about winning the "Bottler of the Year" award and memorable experiences in the business, especially with Andrew's father, whose legacy still inspires them. They also share humorous stories about encounters on their delivery routes, like a goat mistaken for a dog and a lady with a cow...
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Hickory Hills Tee Time Tales with Troy Guillotte
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen sits down with Troy Guillotte, a prominent figure from Gautier, Mississippi. Troy, the owner and PR/Marketing Director of shares his incredible journey of reviving a 226-acre gem along the scenic Pascagoula River. Hickory Hills features an 18-hole championship golf course, a restaurant, a bar, event venues, and condos for rent. Troy shares the story of reviving and his strong business partnership with Allen Beverages. They discuss personal stories, including playing golf with family and Troy's first job at at a fishing camp. They also cover Troy's passion for...
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Community and Creativity: The Heartbeat of Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
Bottled Up
In this episode, Andrew Allen talks with Cindy DeFrances, Executive Director of They delve into the museum's history, community impact, and new additions like a sensory tree house and Mars rover exhibit. Cindy highlights how the museum has grown from an idea in the 1960s to a beloved family destination, attracting over 120,000 visitors annually. They discuss community outreach efforts, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, including "discovery at home kits" and partnerships with local libraries and organizations. Cindy shares her thanks to the Coastal Community for their support, helping...
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Behind The Wheel Of Jeepin' The Coast
Bottled Up
In this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew Allen chats with event organizers Jennifer Moran, Kim Farve, and Julie Bradley about their annual gathering that unites Jeep enthusiasts. Since its inception in 2011, this event has grown significantly, attracting thousands to the Mississippi Gulf Coast with its family-friendly atmosphere. The conversation highlights how the event showcases an array of Jeeps and supports various community causes with impressive economic benefits for the area. Tune in to hear more about the thrilling activities like scavenger hunts, poker runs, and the...
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On this episode, Andrew Allen talks with Chuck Kelly, owner of Chuck's Salon, as he recounts his childhood upbringing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, his journey into the hairdressing industry, and the development of his successful salon business on the Gulf Coast. Chuck emphasizes the importance of providing a customer-centric experience in his salon, focusing on exceptional technical skills and personalized service for each guest. He discusses the challenges faced in the industry, such as the shift towards independent contractor models and the need to maintain high standards amidst changing trends.
Chuck Kelly reflects on transitioning to a smaller salon space, adapting to industry changes, and training the next generation of stylists. He highlights the significance of hiring based on personality rather than just technical skills, emphasizing the importance of empathy and customer engagement in the hairdressing profession. Chuck also touches on the impact of technology in the salon business, such as implementing online booking systems with strict reservation policies. Throughout the show, Chuck's dedication to maintaining quality service, fostering a positive work culture, and adapting to industry challenges shines through as key themes in his successful salon business. Enjoy the show!
3 Key Episode Takeaways
1. Importance of Personal Connection: Chuck Kelly emphasizes the significance of prioritizing the guest experience in his salon. He stresses the need for stylists to engage with clients, listen attentively, and tailor their services to individual preferences.
2. Training and Mentorship: Chuck highlights the value of apprenticeship and continuous learning in the beauty industry. He shares his approach of hiring based on personality and investing in training to develop technical skills, emphasizing the five-year path from hairdressing school to building a solid clientele.
3. Business Model Challenges: Chuck discusses the shift in salon business models towards independent contractors and the impact on traditional employer-based salons. He addresses the complexities of maintaining standards, control, and long-term viability while adapting to technological advancements like online booking.
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