ConnectTheKnox

Connecting Knoxville to the Nation, one interview at a time.

The Point of Supporting Local Restaurants with Dan Goss 12/18/2024

The Joys of Living East Tennessee with Amber Carroll 12/04/2024

What You Aught to Know with Erika Biddix 11/20/2024

Going from Farm to Table with Charlotte Tolley 11/06/2024

Life on the Farm with Colleen Cruze 10/23/2024

Fighting to Keep Energy Clean with Cortney Piper 10/09/2024

Letting Her Speak with Catherine Porth 09/25/2024

Beginning Within with Wil Davenport 09/11/2024

Decking the Vols with Santa Vol 08/28/2024

The Growth in East Tennessee’s Tech Industry with Travis Howerton 08/14/2024

Inspiring the Next Generation of Female Athletes with Dana Hart 07/31/2024

The Essential Role of IT in Business with Brian Strong 07/17/2024

Homesteading with the “Chicken Librarian” Kristin Webber 07/03/2024

Elevating Knoxville’s Young Professionals with Sam Elliott 06/19/2024

Elevating Knoxville’s Young Professionals with Sam Elliott Sam Elliott, the Vice President of Development for the Young Professionals of Knoxville (YPK), shares his journey from a pilot to a pivotal community leader, detailing the impact of YPK in fostering a vibrant network for young professionals in Knoxville. Discover how YPK's connections, development, and service initiatives are crafting a promising future for the city’s young talent and how young professionals can get involved, grow their skills, and contribute to their community. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction. (01:07) Sam's background in aviation and community leadership. (02:17) Exploring volunteer opportunities and community involvement in Knoxville. (03:23) How the city supports a community-driven mindset. (03:51) Overview of Young Professionals of Knoxville and their activities. (05:22) Professional development events hosted by YPK. (06:27) Leadership experiences within YPK. (07:34) YPK’s affinity groups and personal connection opportunities. (08:10) Discussion on Knoxville’s transformation into a tech and educational hub. (09:28) Retaining young talent in Knoxville with strategic initiatives. (10:33) YPK’s expansion into surrounding areas. (14:05) Community service projects and their impacts. (16:32) Regional expansion plans into Oak Ridge. (17:11) Future partnerships and growth for YPK. (18:44) Importance of community and professional development. (25:13) Closing remarks and appreciation for Sam Elliott. Links Referenced: Young Professionals of Knoxville website: Reach Sam via Email: Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts FM - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/31792677

Laying the Foundation for Knoxville's Growth with John Ewart 06/05/2024

Laying the Foundation for Knoxville's Growth with John Ewart In this episode, we meet John Ewart, the dynamic leader of the Knoxville Chapter of the Associated General Contractors. John shares his inspiring journey from his early days in the Navy to playing football at the University of Tennessee and how these experiences led him to a significant role in shaping Knoxville's construction scene. He discusses the importance of skilled trades like electric work and carpentry, the impact of the Women in Construction initiative, and how he is helping to grow the next generation of leaders in the construction industry. Tune in to discover how John's leadership is building a stronger community in Knoxville. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction. (01:00) John recounts his early experiences. (02:31) Explanation of what AGC stands for and its significance in the construction industry. (03:24) Details on the membership composition of AGC and its community impact. (05:33) The role of AGC in workforce development, focusing on the Apprenticeship Program. (06:04) Explanation of what a journeyman is and the value of the apprenticeship. (07:09) Strategies to combat the workforce shortage in skilled trades. (09:18) Insights into the Women in Construction initiative and its goals. (11:00) Discussion on large-scale projects and the importance of blueprint skills in construction. (13:36) The pivotal role of mentorship and networking in professional growth. (16:00) The importance of community involvement and service in John's career. (18:45) How AGC connects with legislation and the broader construction industry at the national level. (20:43) The impact of social media and networking on professional relationships. (22:35) Closing thoughts on leadership, community impact, and the future of Knoxville's growth. Links Referenced: Connect with John on Facebook: Connect with John on LinkedIn: The Associated General Contractors Of Tennessee: Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts FM - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/31602812

Orange to a "T" with George Bove Children’s Book Author 05/08/2024

Insights Into Knoxville’s Commercial Real Estate Scene With Justin Cazana 04/24/2024

Roadmap to Grant Funding in Knoxville with Lisa Shiveler 04/10/2024

Transforming Knoxville into a Tourism Triumph With Kim Bumpas 03/27/2024

Crafting Knoxville's Workforce for the Future with Stephanie Vozar 03/13/2024

Crafting Knoxville's Workforce for the Future with Stephanie Vozar This episode of ConnectTheKnox features a conversation with Stephanie Vozar, Director of Corporate Philanthropy at the University of Tennessee, focusing on her role in forging connections between the university and corporate partners to prepare students for the future workforce. Julia Hurley and Stephanie discuss the impact of these partnerships on retaining young talent in Knoxville, Stephanie's vision for the growth of corporate philanthropy at UT, and her personal journey from Flint, Michigan, to her beloved Knoxville. The discussion offers insights into how education and philanthropy are pivotal in shaping a vibrant, economically robust community. Show Notes (00:00) - Introduction to the episode and welcoming Stephanie Vozar (00:55) - Stephanie's journey from Flint, Michigan to Knoxville, Tennessee (01:31) - Stephanie’s Transition from Young Williams Animal Center to the University of Tennessee (02:48) - Overview of Stephanie's role in corporate philanthropy at UT (05:10 ) - Addressing workforce needs through innovative educational programs (10:47) - Efforts to retain young talent in Knoxville and the importance of internships (14:10) - The evolving demands in key industries (16:33 ) - Future directions for corporate philanthropy at UT and potential team growth (21:26) - Connecting students with industry opportunities (24:06) - Stephanie's personal connection to Knoxville and her favorite aspects of the city (27:57) - Closing remarks Links Referenced: Visit Knoxville Website: University of Tennessee Foundation: Young Williams Animal Center: Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/30347453

Your Knoxville Guide with Kristen Combs 02/28/2024

Brewing Community Connections with Zack Roskop 02/14/2024

Volpe's Vision: Unpacking Remote Area Medical's Impact and the Power of Giving 01/31/2024

Savoring Change: A Culinary Legacy and the Future of a Family-Owned Business with Elise Collier Massey 01/17/2024

Savoring Change: A Culinary Legacy and the Future of a Family-Owned Business with Elise Collier Massey Elise Collier Massey is the owner of Collier Restaurant Group in Sevierville, Tennessee. On this episode of ConnectTheKnox, Julia and Elise discuss the immense growth that Knoxville County has seen over the last 40 years, the generational differences in the restaurant industry that Elise sees as a third-generation restaurateur, and why being local is so important to her community and success. Elise also shares some exclusive information on her new restaurant, Roma Table, and Julia and Elise praise Buc-ee’s for its empowering effect on Tennessee. Show Notes 00:00 Intro 00:21 Julia introduces today’s guest, Elise Collier Massey 00:56 Elise gives her family history and how she got started in the restaurant business 05:15 Julia and Elise reminisce over the Pigeon Forge staple, Magic World 06:48 How Elise moved from opening pancake houses to national chains 07:47 The growth Tennessee has seen over the last 40 years 09:56 What it’s like working in a family business 11:29 Elise’s vision for the future including opening her own original restaurant, Roma Table 14:18 Balancing the desire to change and move forward with people’s desire for consistency 15:20 Ad - Just Homes Group 15:56 How the restaurant landscape is different for Elise than it was for her father and grandfather 21:06 New developments coming to the area 23:57 The power of Buc-ee’s in Tennessee 25:30 Why being local is so important to the community 27:06 A rundown of all the restaurants the Collier Restaurant Group owns 28:51 What to look out for from Elise in 2024 29:31 Elise’s must-go place for anyone visiting Knoxville 30:49 Outro Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/29504388

Keeping Tennessee Competitive with Its Peers with Marc Gibson 01/03/2024

Keeping Tennessee Competitive with Its Peers with Marc Gibson Marc Gibson is the Associate Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. On this episode of ConnectTheKnox, Julia and Marc sit down to talk about what Tennessee is doing to stay competitive with its peer states including tackling issues of mobility, leveraging AI to keep their workforce competitive, and proper curriculum around farming and finance. Marc shares how capturing funding from large national grants is going to be his greatest opportunity (and challenge) for pushing the state forward especially at a time when a growing retirement population threatens the current status-quo. Show Notes 00:00 Intro 00:22 Julia introduces Marc Gibson, Associate Vice Chancellor for Research at University of Tennessee, Knoxville 00:55 Marc discusses how he works to keep Tennessee competitive with its peer states 03:42 How UT is connecting with small business to help them build and stay in Tennessee 05:40 Why capturing funding from large grants is Marc’s greatest opportunity and challenge 09:28 The value that technology and AI provide to the state’s future 13:40 An example of how ChatGPT can be integrated into schooling 15:56 Ad - Just Homes Group 16:30 Marc gives his thoughts on preparing the next generation to tackle tough issues around policy and technology 17:55 How failing to plan for the future can set the state and workforce back indefinitely 20:02 Leveraging Tennessee’s greatest economic drivers to create a vibrant future 24:04 Julia raises concerns around Tennessee’s growing retirement population 26:32 Marc shares his ideas for the state’s future growth including mobility and curriculum 29:13 Ways for people to connect with Marc 29:55 Outro Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/29320028

Why Community, Fans, and Donor Support are the Pillars of Vols Baseball with Chad Zurcher 12/20/2023

Why Community, Fans, and Donor Support are the Pillars of Vols Baseball with Chad Zurcher Chad Zurcher is the Director of Baseball Operations at the University of Tennessee. On this episode of ConnectTheKnox, Julia sits down with Chad to talk about the Volunteer’s incredible connection with the community, the 95 million dollar upcoming stadium renovations, and the powerfully positive impact that NIL deals are having on the players. Chad goes in-depth on the numerous ways that fans can support the team on, and off, the field. Plus, the rippling positivity of Tony Vitello, and a brief glimpse into fatherhood as Chad talks about his new baby boy, Warren. Show Notes 00:00 Intro 00:22 Julia introduces Chad Zurcher, Director of Baseball Operations at the University of Tennessee 00:50 Chad gives an overview of his position and how the Vols are growing 02:11 What stadium renovations are planned in the next 2 years 03:52 How NIL deals impact players on the baseball team 06:08 The power of fundraisers and connecting players with donors 09:32 Describing how scholarships work and why community support is so crucial 11:41 Julia details her love for Vols baseball 13:05 Ways in which the community can support the team 14:02 How to connect with Chad if you’d like to help out 15:36 Ad - Just Homes Group 16:11 Continuation of how to connect with Chad 16:57 Chad talks about his new baby boy, Warren 18:55 What the players’ schedules look like and how to get more involved as a fan 21:58 Discussing the effect of former pro athletes who have moved to Tennessee 23:16 The impact of Tony Vitello 25:06 Getting the community involved behind the scenes 26:03 Julia asks Chad where he brings people who have never been to Knoxville 27:08 Chad’s parting words 27:07 Outro Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/29156773

UFOs and the Pentagon’s Ridiculous Need for Secrecy with Rep. Tim Burchett 12/06/2023

UFOs and the Pentagon’s Ridiculous Need for Secrecy with Rep. Tim Burchett Representative Tim Burchett is a Republican Congressman serving the 2nd district of Tennessee. In this episode of Connect the Knox, Julia interviews Burchett about America’s complicated history with UFOs, the Pentagon’s ridiculous need for secrecy and spending, and how well-intentioned officials can quickly become corrupt or compromised. Rep. Burchett also gives listeners an in-depth look into his family history, how he went from disposing of yard waste to devoting his life to serving the people of Tennessee as a national Congressman, and what he believes are the biggest issues facing our country today. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:20 Julia introduces Tim Burchett, Republican Congressman for the 2nd district of Tennessee. 00:52 Rep. Burchett goes over his family history and early life 05:23 The journey from local mayor to national congressman 08:33 Using social media to keep his constituents informed 09:27 Tim’s relationship with Matt Gaetz and other colleagues 10:54 Why people love Tennessee and their state legislators 12:05 UFOs and how the government profits from endless wars 20:52 Ad - Just Homes Group 21:27 The damaging effect of keeping secrets from the American people 23:11 Burchett’s ongoing battle with the Pentagon 24:27 Honeypots and compromised elected officials 26:25 How money helps congresspeople advance up the chain of command 29:02 Homelessness, drug cartels, and other important issues facing America today 32:43 Knoxville’s greatest assets: its food and its people 36:36 Outro Links Mentioned in this Episode: Rep. Burchett’s website: Rep. Burchett’s Twitter: @RepTimBurchett Rep. Burchett’s 2nd Twitter: @TimBurchett Rep. Burchett Facebook: Rep. Burchett Instagram: @RepTimBurchett Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/28945403

The Importance of Tennessee in Creating a World of Green Energy with Dr. Hash 11/22/2023

The Importance of Tennessee in Creating a World of Green Energy with Dr. Hash Dr. H.M. “Hash” Hashemian is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Analysis and Measurement Services Corporation (AMS), a nuclear engineering consulting firm headquartered in Knoxville. In this episode of ConnectTheKnox, Julia sits down with Dr. Hash to discuss the positives of nuclear energy, how AMS is doing control systems testing around the world to make nuclear energy even safer, and why Tennessee is such a hub for green energy. Dr. Hash also describes his love for the people and scenery of Knoxville, and how that led him to building his company and personal life in Tennessee. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:22 Julia introduces Dr. H.M. “Hash” Hashemian, who is President and Chief Executive Officer of Analysis and Measurement Services Corporation (AMS), a nuclear engineering consulting firm headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee 01:24 What Dr. Hash does in the field of nuclear energy 02:19 Why nuclear energy is important 05:00 Dr. Hash explains how nuclear waste is properly disposed of 07:21 How Dr. Hash’s hires and retains talented workers in Knoxville 09:27 The importance of vocational degrees in building and operating a nuclear power plant 11:27 A description of the control systems testing that AMS does internationally 13:28 Dr. Hash’s admiration for UT President, Randy Boyd and his ability for time management 15:17 Ad - Just Homes Group 15:53 Julia dives into the technical books that Dr. Hash has written 18:08 The role that Oak Ridge National Lab plays both locally and nationally 19:52 An in-depth look at everything happening in Tennessee surrounding nuclear energy 22:03 Why Dr. Hash loves the people, scenery, and history of Knoxville 25:25 Dr. Hash answers Julia’s fire round questions about his favorite local spots 31:34 Outro Links Mentioned in this Episode: AMS Website: https://www.ams-corp.com/ AMS Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/amsknoxville AMS YouTube Channel: AMS LinkedIn: Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/28749408

Supporting Local Agriculture Through Education with Dr. Keith Carver 11/08/2023

Supporting Local Agriculture Through Education with Dr. Keith Carver Dr. Keith Carver is the Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President of the UT Institute of Agriculture, which plays a huge role in our community and the future of our local farmers. In this episode of ConnectTheKnox, Dr. Carver describes the programs that UT offers not only to students, but also to locals who want to get involved with agriculture or even just learn more about how to take advantage of the local agriculture we have right here in our area. Dr. Carver also walks us through his lifelong career at UT, and shares insights into the 5-year plan for the future of the University. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:16 Julia introduces Dr. Keith Carver, who is the Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President for the UT Institute of Agriculture 01:34 Why Keith came to Knoxville from West Tennessee 02:45 Keith describes his role at UT 05:19 Julia and Keith discuss the value of local agriculture and working with your local farmers 08:05 What Knoxville residents can do to get involved with the programs at UT Institute of Agriculture 10:38 The challenges that Dr. Carver has faced in his career at UT and what he’s focused on in his new role 13:02 Julia and Keith discuss local dairy in Knoxville 15:25 Ad - Just Homes Group 15:55 Dr. Carver’s 5-year plan for the future at UT 19:15 What Keith would do differently if he could go back to the beginning of his career knowing what he does now 21:35 The various events and classes that UT offers to local people who want to learn agricultural skills 24:40 Dr. Carver answers Julia’s fire round of questions about his favorite local spots Links Mentioned In This Episode: UT Institute of Agriculture Website: UT Institute of Agriculture Facebook: UT Institute of Agriculture Instagram: UT Institute of Agriculture X: Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - Or wherever you listen to Podcasts - Connect with Julia - Follow me on Connect with me on Find me on Follow me on - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/28549631

Serving the Local Community One Glass at a Time with Candace Viox 10/25/2023

Serving the Local Community One Glass at a Time with Candace Viox Candace Viox is the owner of local restaurant and wine bar, Water Into Wine. Water Into Wine has become a staple in our community, and in this episode of ConnectTheKnox, Candace shares the incredible story of how she decided to open the business and the choices she’s made that led to her success. Throughout our conversation, Candace reveals how she’s been able to overcome the challenges of owning a local restaurant, as well as what drives her to keep moving forward. Candace also shares the tips she gives to friends who move to Knoxville from California, and her plans for the future of Water Into Wine. Highlights 00:00 Intro 00:16 Julia introduces Candace Viox, the owner of local restaurant Water Into Wine 01:08 Candace shares why she decided to open her restaurant in West Knoxville 05:57 The choices Candace made to ensure she was creating a bar that aligned with her values and fostered a sense of community and connection 09:48 How Candace has overcome the challenges she faced as a restaurant owner 14:26 Ad - Just Homes Group 14:57 The dreams and plans that Candace has for the future of Water Into Wine 18:47 Candace shares the impact that the community has had on her, her business, and the impact she feels she has had on the Knoxville community herself 23:42 More information on the weekly events at Water Into Wine 24:53 Candace answers Julia’s lightning round of questions about her favorite local hot spots Links Mentioned in This Episode: Facebook: Instagram: Website: Just Homes Group: Dr. Joe Chiro: Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/connecttheknox/id1652701054 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Axg6Q4dJqtkUe6fTM15QB?si=BeXhYZ6oS8G32BMeYxuzMQ Or wherever you listen to Podcasts! - Connect with Julia - Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejuliahurley Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justhomesgroup/ Find me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/justhomesgroup Follow me on Facebook: - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - Just Homes Realty Group: Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: /episode/index/show/f387296c-53e7-411a-8a5a-53c7017974a3/id/28411133

ConnectTheKnox

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