Explore the strength and unity of Bryson City, North Carolina, as Erin Smith, owner of Humanité Boutique, shares her journey as a small business owner during challenging times. Learn how the community came together after Hurricane Helene, the lessons that shaped their recovery, and the impact of supporting one another. Erin’s story reveals the importance of connection, resilience, and creating a meaningful legacy, all set against the backdrop of Bryson City’s natural beauty and holiday charm.

Bryson City, NC, is a mountain town in Western North Carolina that blends resilience, community spirit, and festive traditions. In this episode, Sarah Conley, Executive Director of the Swain County TDA, shares how Bryson City navigated the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. From using social media to keep residents informed to preparing for winter visitors, the town demonstrates its strength and ability to adapt in every situation.

As the holiday season approaches, Bryson City transforms into a cozy winter retreat. Highlights include the Polar Express train ride, a family favorite that brings holiday stories to life, and the dazzling Christmas Light Spectacular that lights up the town. Visitors can enjoy warm hospitality, stunning mountain views, and countless opportunities to make unforgettable holiday memories.

This episode dives into what makes Bryson City truly special—its resilience, holiday magic, and the way it welcomes visitors with open arms, no matter the season.

https://www.explorebrysoncity.com/

Beech Mountain, North Carolina, Tourism Marketing Director Armando Garcia shares the story of how this resilient mountain community responded to Hurricane Helene, with heartfelt support from both locals and visitors. As winter approaches, Beech Mountain is prepared to welcome travelers to its snowy slopes and scenic trails. In this episode, Armando provides valuable travel tips on how visitors can support nearby North Carolina communities, making for a winter getaway filled with both adventure and community spirit.

John Murray, owner of 96 Pecan Company in Ninety-Six, South Carolina, discusses pecan farming and candy-making. Learn how his college football experience at Clemson and desire for a meaningful retirement led him to create a thriving business that's become an integral part of his community.

In this episode, John talks about:

• His shift to pecan farming
• Applying football lessons to business
• Navigating challenges in agriculture and food production
• Starting 96 Pecan Company and expanding into candy-making
• Creating a welcoming, family-farm atmosphere
• Building customer loyalty through generosity

John explains how his business has become a place of support for those seeking empathy. We also explore the local community that's supported John's success. Discover:

• How he's turned his store into a gathering place for locals
• The impact of word-of-mouth in a small town
• How he uses his business to give back to the community

For travelers visiting Ninety-Six, SC:

• Why 96 Pecan Company is worth a stop
• What visitors can experience at the store
• A glimpse into small-town Southern hospitality

John's story shows that retirement can open new doors. This episode offers insights for those nearing retirement, considering career changes, or interested in stories of reinvention.

Listen to how John's post-retirement venture led to a beloved local business, and discover the charm of Ninety-Six through its pecan-centered enterprise.

Audio and Video: Melanie Lech Multimedia

Special Thanks to Old 96 District

Erica McCier, owner of Indigenous Underground in Abbeville, South Carolina, and 2023 South Carolina Chef Ambassador, shares her remarkable journey from middle school art teacher to celebrated chef. Discover how a near-death experience became the catalyst for McCier's transformation, propelling her from the classroom to the kitchen and ultimately to culinary stardom.

In this episode, Erica dishes on:

• Her surprising transition from teaching to cooking
• Overcoming health challenges and personal obstacles
• Opening Indigenous Underground
• The whirlwind experience of becoming a SC Chef Ambassador
• How her nomination boosted business and opened new doors
• Building lasting friendships with fellow chef ambassadors

Get ready for some heartwarming moments as Erica shares how her new role has touched both her life and her customers'. You'll hear firsthand how she's adapted to sudden fame and embraced her expanded responsibilities.

We'll also explore Abbeville's tight-knit community that's been crucial to Erica's success. Learn about:

• Her favorite local hotspots
• Organizing a massive Thanksgiving meal for 500 residents
• Getting involved with the Chamber of Commerce
• How community support fuels her passion

Erica's journey proves that food is more than sustenance – it's a way to nourish the soul and bring people together. Whether you're a foodie, an aspiring chef, or simply love a good comeback story, this episode serves up inspiration by the plateful.

Tune in to hear how one woman's leap of faith led her to the forefront of South Carolina's food scene, and why following your passion can lead to the most unexpected and rewarding places.

Audio and Video: Melanie Lech Multimedia
Special Thanks to Old 96 District

Welcome to our latest episode featuring Sharon Manor, a unique bed and breakfast in Abbeville, South Carolina. This former 1920s schoolhouse has been transformed into a cozy inn by the Chupp family.

This episode offers insights for history enthusiasts, small-town charm seekers, and those interested in renovation projects. We also share useful tips for aspiring B&B owners.

Join us to learn about the journey of Sharon Manor, from its days as a schoolhouse to its current status as a welcoming inn. You'll hear about the challenges and rewards of preserving a piece of local history while creating a comfortable retreat for visitors.

Listen now and discover how an old school became a beloved bed and breakfast in the heart of South Carolina.

If you enjoyed this episode, hit that subscribe button to catch more stories about hidden gems and travel inspirations!

Audio, Video, and BTS: Melanie Lech Multimedia

Special Thanks to: The Old 96 District

Join us as we dive deep into the world of culinary excellence with Chef Darren Smith, a renowned restaurateur and culinary maestro. In this episode, Darren shares his inspiring journey from his early days in the kitchen to becoming a successful restaurant owner. Discover the secrets behind running a thriving restaurant, including the importance of hiring great talent and fostering a positive work environment.

Darren reveals the core values that guide his restaurant's success: creating an inviting atmosphere, serving exceptional food promptly, and maintaining menu integrity. Aspiring chefs will gain valuable insights as Darren offers advice on learning from seasoned professionals, exploring cookbooks, and embracing family food traditions.

We also explore Darren's personal life, from cherished memories of his grandparents' frugal yet delicious meals to his own tradition of cooking for family and friends. Learn about his passion for local ingredients and the strong relationships he's built with farmers and fishmongers.

Darren takes us behind the scenes of his experience on ChefSwap and the thrill of competing on a cooking show. Plus, get insider tips on hidden culinary gems in Conway and the surrounding area.

Don't miss this captivating episode filled with culinary wisdom, personal anecdotes, and invaluable advice for food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs alike.

Rivertown Bistro
Bonfire- A Smokin' Taqueria

Special Thanks:
Visit Myrtle Beach

In this episode, Shawn Askinosie, founder of Askinosie Chocolate, shares his journey from being a criminal defense lawyer to pursuing chocolate.

Takeaways:

• Tragedy can lead to finding one's life purpose.
• Rising cocoa bean prices pose challenges for chocolate makers.
• Building relationships with farmers is crucial in the chocolate industry.
• Profit sharing can have a positive impact on farmers and their communities. Askinosie's bean-to-bar chocolate company pays cocoa farmers a higher price and provides them with advance payments, improving their lives and communities.
• The company has funded projects such as metal roofs for homes, making a significant impact on the communities they work with.
• The Chocolate University program offers transformative experiences for students, teaching them about the impact of their work and the importance of human connection.
• Shawn highlights the challenges of technology and the need for in-person connections and authentic experiences in today's world.