• 262. Building Community Through Film at ETSU with Shara Lange
    Feb 20 2026

    summary

    In this engaging interview, Colin Johnson sits down with Shara Lange, head of the Radio, TV, and Film program at ETSU, to discuss media education, community projects, and the future of film and digital media. Discover how students gain hands-on experience, the impact of local events, and the evolving landscape of media technology.


    Connect with Shara: https://www.etsu.edu/cbat/media-communication/facstaff/langes.php

    Learn more about Radio, TV, and Film program at ETSU: https://www.etsu.edu/cbat/media-communication/academics/undergraduate-programs/radio-tv-film.php

    Shara's Documentary Film, Banjo Romantika: https://dc.etsu.edu/etsu_books/83/

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    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    48 mins
  • 261. The Heart Behind Jeremiah Cafe with Jennifer Sweet
    Feb 13 2026

    Summary

    In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson interviews Jennifer Sweet, the founder of Jeremiah Cafe. They discuss Jennifer's journey to Johnson City, the inspiration behind her cafe, and how it serves as a bridge for autistic individuals to gain employment skills. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, changing perceptions of autism, and the personal growth Jennifer has experienced through her service-oriented business. Listeners are encouraged to visit the cafe and support its mission of providing opportunities for those with autism.

    Takeaways

    Jennifer Sweet is the founder of Jeremiah Cafe in Johnson City.
    The cafe aims to provide job opportunities for autistic individuals.
    Community support is crucial for the success of local businesses.
    The cafe offers a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu.
    Jennifer's journey to starting the cafe was inspired by her daughter's experience with autism.
    The cafe operates as a service-oriented business, not focused on profit.
    They provide training and support for autistic employees to thrive in the workplace.
    The cafe has partnerships with local organizations and schools.
    Jennifer emphasizes the importance of patience and kindness in the workplace.
    The vision for the cafe includes expanding opportunities for autistic individuals in the community.

    Connect with Jennifer & Jeremiah Cafe:
    Facebook: Jeremiah Cafe
    Instagram: @jeremiahcafe
    Website: jeremiahcafe.com

    Buy your next home, or list your current home with us!

    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    38 mins
  • 260. Samara Private Wealth with Andrew Julian
    Feb 6 2026

    Andrew Julian is the founder of Samara Private Wealth in Johnson City, where he works with individuals and families navigating retirement and major financial transitions. As a CFP® professional and fiduciary, his focus is on clarity, thoughtful judgment, and long-term stewardship. He lives in the Tree Streets with his wife and two boys and is active in the Johnson City community.

    Connect with Andrew: Samarawealth.com
    Andrew Julian, CFP® | LinkedIn
    https://www.facebook.com/andrew.julian.92
    Andrew Julian (@andrew_julian_) • Instagram photos and videos

    Buy your next home, or list your current home with us!

    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    51 mins
  • 259. Advocacy, Healing, and Community with Willow Clerici
    Jan 30 2026

    Summary

    In this engaging conversation, Willow Clerici shares her journey from real estate to holistic health coaching, emphasizing the importance of advocacy for special needs children, her personal battle with breast cancer, and the power of community involvement. She discusses her book 'Special Forces', which reflects on her experiences as a mother and advocate, and offers insights into mindfulness and mental health strategies. Willow's story is one of resilience, hope, and the importance of connection in both personal and community contexts.

    Takeaways

    Willow is an advocate for special needs children and their families.
    She emphasizes holistic health approaches over traditional medication.
    Her book 'Special Forces' is a memoir of her journey as a mother.
    Willow's experience with breast cancer shaped her perspective on health.
    Mindfulness practices are essential for managing anxiety and stress.
    Community involvement is a key part of Willow's life and work.
    She co-owns a jujitsu school to empower others, especially women.
    Willow encourages parents to be advocates for their children's needs.
    She believes in the healing power of food and lifestyle changes.
    Willow's story highlights the importance of resilience and hope.

    Connect with Willow:
    IG: @willowpaige
    FB & LinkedIn: Willow Clerici

    Buy your next home, or list your current home with us!

    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    55 mins
  • 258. Personality Pool: Insights on Personality and Hiring with Lauren Glass Mullins
    Jan 23 2026

    Summary

    In this engaging podcast episode, host Colin Johnson speaks with Lauren Glass Mullins about her journey from Kingsport to Atlanta, her entrepreneurial ventures, and the creation of Personality Pool, a platform designed to enhance hiring processes through personality assessments. They discuss the importance of community, faith, and the impact of AI in business, as well as the significance of giving non-traditional hires a chance. Lauren shares her insights on personal growth, the role of personality in hiring, and her aspirations for the future.

    Takeaways

    Community found in church is beautiful and essential.
    Inspiration can come from unexpected places, like movies.
    Starting a nonprofit can lead to entrepreneurial ventures.
    Personality Pool helps companies screen candidates by personality.
    AI can enhance hiring processes but should not replace human intuition.
    Retention rates improve significantly with the right hiring tools.
    It's important to give non-traditional hires a chance.
    Personal experiences shape our understanding of others.
    Building a business requires collaboration and support.
    Mentorship is vital for aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Check out Personality Pool: https://personalitypool.com/

    Buy your next home, or list your current home with us!

    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    47 mins
  • 257. You're Not From Around Here: The Art of Storytelling with Judy Donley
    Jan 17 2026

    Summary

    In this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson welcomes Judy Donley, a local author, artist, and storyteller. Judy shares her journey from growing up in a large family in Massachusetts to serving in the Air Force and eventually settling in Johnson City. She discusses her passion for storytelling, which she attributes to her upbringing and the influence of her parents. Judy's book, "You're Not From Around Here, Are You?" reflects her experiences and adventures across various locations, including her time in the military and her artistic endeavors. Throughout the conversation, Judy emphasizes the importance of creativity, community, and the joy of sharing stories that connect people.

    Takeaways

    Every life holds a story worth telling.
    The sure way of failing is to not try.
    If life begins at 40, then I'm a native Tennessean.
    I want to encourage people to be themselves.
    You can have a list, but if you want it to be true, you have to write it down.

    Connect with Judy: https://www.artistwriterteller.com/

    Buy your next home, or list your current home with us!

    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    39 mins
  • 256. From News Anchor to Community Advocate with Josh Smith
    Jan 9 2026

    Summary

    In this engaging conversation, Josh Smith shares his journey from a trusted news anchor to an adjunct instructor and entrepreneur. He discusses the evolution of journalism, the challenges of rural healthcare, and the importance of gratitude and community service. The dialogue also touches on the future of media consumption, the role of education, and personal reflections on family and faith.

    Takeaways

    Josh Smith has transitioned from journalism to teaching and consulting.
    The erosion of trust in media has been exacerbated by recent events.
    Gratitude is a powerful tool for maintaining positivity.
    The future of media consumption is shifting towards digital platforms.
    Teaching young minds offers fresh perspectives on communication.
    Healthcare in rural America faces significant challenges.
    Starting a new business can be a fulfilling venture.
    Public service is essential for community development.
    Family plays a crucial role in personal happiness and fulfillment.
    Maintaining a positive mindset is a choice that can lead to a better life.

    Buy your next home, or list your current home with us!

    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    55 mins
  • 255. Building a Thriving Startup Ecosystem in Johnson City with David Nelson of Founders Forge
    Jan 2 2026

    Summary

    In this episode, David Nelson, the executive director of Founders Forge, discusses the evolution of entrepreneurship in rural America, particularly in Johnson City. He shares the journey of Founders Forge, a nonprofit startup hub that empowers underestimated and first-time founders. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the diverse business landscape, and the growth of a startup ecosystem in the region. David also reflects on his personal entrepreneurial journey, the significance of validation for new ideas, and the future vision for Founders Forge and its initiatives like Avante, a pre-accelerator program aimed at helping aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Takeaways

    Founders Forge aims to empower underestimated and first-time founders.
    Community support is crucial for fostering entrepreneurship.
    The startup ecosystem in Johnson City has seen significant growth.
    David's journey reflects the challenges and successes of entrepreneurship.
    Validation of business ideas is essential before launching.
    The culture of helping each other drives innovation in the region.
    Founders Forge organizes events to connect entrepreneurs and resources.
    Avante is a new program designed to help entrepreneurs from idea to launch.
    The grit of the local community contributes to entrepreneurial success.
    David envisions Johnson City as a model for startup ecosystems.

    Connect with David: https://foundersforge.com/

    Buy your next home, or list your current home with us!

    https://www.thecolinandcarlygroup.com/

    Be a guest on the Johnson City Living Podcast: https://www.johnsoncityliving.com/guests?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf_qLsH2l73s8fTV40Oebx8kSAGlIFS_y50ij7CRneeNX3I6NzzfQMUKP-7hw_aem_xHCpTZ5r_cOfc22X1DNvmw

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    51 mins