Brought to you by, Jonathan Tipton & Steve Reed of Benchmark Home Loans, Benchmark Happenings is a podcast that is a biweekly discussion about living in and moving to Northeast Tennessee along with the local real estate market. Join your host Christine Reed as she interviews Jonathan & Steve, local business owners, sought-after industry experts, Veterans, Realtors, Benchmark clients, and more. Benchmark Happenings focuses on discussing all things related to mortgages and Northeast Tennessee. ...
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Jonathan Tipton Steve Reed Amp Christine Reed Podcasts

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The Art of Color: Elevating Your Natural Beauty
27:46
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27:46Discovering your authentic style isn't just about looking good—it's about reconnecting with your natural beauty and finding confidence that radiates from within. In this enlightening conversation, Christine Reed welcomes Shelli Holchek, owner of House of Color in Johnson City and Bristol, who reveals how color analysis is transforming lives across …
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From Passion to Profession: Suzanne McKinney's Jewelry Journey
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24:29What happens when creative passion meets entrepreneurial spirit? Suzanne McKinney's journey with Beauty in Stone Jewelry provides a masterclass in turning artistic talent into a thriving business. Suzanne believes jewelry is the essential finishing touch that completes any outfit. "Even if you're wearing just a T-shirt and jeans, when you add beaut…
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Behind the Lens: Tina Wilson's Journey from Photographer to Business Maven
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27:24Ever wonder what happens when you release your white-knuckle grip on what seems "too good to let go"? Tina Wilson's remarkable journey from portrait photographer to business maven reveals the surprising gifts that come from open hands and divine timing. From finding her cordless phone in the freezer as an identity-starved new mom to hearing a myste…
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Beyond The Hype: A Professional's Guide To Skincare That Actually Works
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22:02The quest for healthier, more youthful skin can be overwhelming with contradictory advice and miracle promises flooding social media. Kelli Rogers from Performance Medicine cuts through the noise in this enlightening conversation about what truly works in skincare. Kelli reveals why your daily skincare routine forms the essential foundation upon wh…
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From Renting to Owning: How Land to Homes Makes It Possible
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26:09
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26:09Looking for an affordable path to homeownership in today's challenging market? Steve Reed returns to Benchmark Happenings to dive deeper into Land to Homes, a pioneering solution for would-be homeowners struggling with sky-high housing costs and limited options. While apartment renters face $1,200-$2,000 monthly payments with nothing to show for it…
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Land2Homes: Creating Affordable Housing Solutions in Northeast Tennessee
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21:03Steve Reed, Co-owner of Benchmark Home Loans, shares the story behind his new venture Land2Homes, which provides affordable turnkey manufactured housing solutions for buyers priced out of the traditional market. • Land2Homes developed after seeing first-time homebuyers priced out by high interest rates and rising home prices • The company purchases…
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A Trip of a Lifetime: How the Honor Flight Program Changes Veterans' Lives
23:04
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23:04Freedom isn't free—a truth Michelle Stewart and the Honor Flight program understand deeply. As president of Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands, Michelle has dedicated herself to giving veterans the recognition they earned through their service and sacrifice. What began as a Facebook message from a high school friend in 2021 has transformed i…
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What Makes Every Woman's Beauty Uniquely Worth Celebrating?
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25:39What does it take to transform a childhood passion into a thriving beauty business? Shamail McKenzie's journey from practicing on Barbie styling heads to becoming an award-winning hair and makeup artist reveals the perfect blend of artistic talent, business savvy, and genuine care for clients. Shamail opens up about her 15+ years in the beauty indu…
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Beyond the Gavel: A Judge's Mission to Transform Lives
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25:49Judge Jim Goodwin lifts the veil on what recovery courts really are—not programs for first-time offenders as commonly misunderstood, but rather the last line of defense before long-term incarceration for those caught in addiction's grip. As Criminal Court Judge for the Second Judicial District in Sullivan County, Goodwin has transformed the landsca…
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What happens when tourism expertise meets a passion for pageants and photography? Something magical, as Krishna Goodwin demonstrates in this captivating conversation about professional imagery, personal branding, and finding your true path. Krishna pulls back the curtain on her journey from Sullivan County Tourism Director to sought-after photograp…
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The Great Rate Debate: Navigating Today's Mortgage Market
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24:06Navigating today's mortgage market doesn't have to be overwhelming. Steve Reed of Benchmark Home Loans joins us to cut through the confusion with straightforward talk about what's really happening with housing inventory, interest rates, and smart loan shopping in 2024. The real estate landscape has noticeably shifted from the frenzy of 2021-2022. W…
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Fast-Pitch Revolution: Tina Gale's Impact on Northeast Tennessee
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33:50Join us for a dynamic episode where we explore the incredible impact of youth fast-pitch softball on the Northeast Tennessee community, featuring special guest Tina Gale. With nearly two decades of experience, Tina has transformed local sports by creating the Diamond Classic tournaments, bringing together families and young athletes in exhilarating…
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The Journey to Wellness: Kevin Corbett's Vision
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30:25Discover how Thermodynamic Health, led by Kevin Corbett, is revolutionizing wellness in Northeast Tennessee. In this engaging episode, Kevin candidly shares his battle with chronic pain, revealing how it motivated him to create a holistic health center that emphasizes natural therapies over conventional medication. From innovative modalities like c…
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Chasing Dreams and Wellness: Karen Hubbs on Transforming East Tennessee's Fitness Community
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29:48Join us as we sit down with the inspiring Karen Hubs from Goose Chase, a visionary who is turning a wild idea into a transformative movement for the fitness community in East Tennessee. Discover how Karen, inspired by the metaphor of a 'wild goose chase' from Mark Batterson's "The Circle Maker," left a 15-year career at the Chamber of Commerce to c…
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AI's Promise and Peril: Austin Ramsey on Revolutionizing Industries, Privacy Challenges, and Empowering Businesses
31:17
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31:17Could AI be the hammer that builds or the hammer that breaks? Join us as we venture into the transformative world of AI with Austin Ramsey, the innovative CEO of Point Tech. We explore the promise and peril of artificial intelligence, from its potential to revolutionize industries like real estate to its role in medical breakthroughs and the ever-p…
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Transforming Spaces and Lives: Kylie Wade on Visual Victories and the Future of Home Organization
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33:24Kylie Wade from Organizing for Life joins us to share her incredible journey from project management and marketing to transforming cluttered spaces into serene havens. Discover how her unique concept of "visual victories" empowers her clients to achieve remarkable organizational results in just six hours. Whether you're a busy parent or feeling ove…
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Empowering First-Time Homebuyers: Steve Reed on Navigating the 2025 Housing Market and Avoiding Common Pitfalls
29:08
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29:08Discover the essential strategies for first-time homebuyers with our guest, Steve Reed, owner-proprietor of Benchmark Home Loans. We promise to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the tricky terrain of the 2025 housing market with confidence. Steve and I discuss the vital importance of selecting the right realtor and lender, steering clear of …
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Revitalizing Health: Dr. Tom Rogers on Transformative Nutrition and U.S. Healthcare Reform
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35:06Transform your understanding of modern healthcare and nutrition as we welcome the esteemed Dr. Tom Rogers from Performance Medicine. Dr. Rogers brings his wealth of knowledge in functional and integrative medicine to our discussion, emphasizing how lifestyle choices like nutrition, exposure to toxins, stress, and inadequate sleep play a critical ro…
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Embracing Faith and Hope: Cindy Ketron on the Deeper Meaning of Christmas and the Journey to Salvation
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34:56Cindy Ketron joins us on this special Christmas Day episode of Benchmark Happenings to reveal the deeper meanings of the holiday, going far beyond the usual trappings of gifts and decorations. Together, we explore the roots of Christmas in the biblical narrative, tracing back to Genesis and the original sin of Adam and Eve. This sets the stage for …
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Safeguarding Communities and Values: Adam Momberger on Firefighting Excellence and Home Safety in Johnson City
27:46
27:46
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27:46Discover the compelling journey of Adam Momberger, the Administrative District Chief of the Johnson City Fire Department, as he reveals what drew him from Ohio to the vibrant community of Johnson City. Learn about the department's unwavering commitment to their core values—Honesty, Empathy, Loyalty, and Professionalism—through the HELP acronym, set…
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Kelly Rogers on Aesthetic Mastery and Holistic Skincare at Performance Medicine
32:05
32:05
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32:05Unlock the secrets to maintaining a youthful appearance as Kelly Rogers from Performance Medicine shares her transformative journey from marketing to mastering aesthetics. Discover how Botox can serve as a preventative ally rather than a quick fix, and why a consistent skincare routine is essential. Kelly passionately discusses the increasing inter…
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Dreaming Big and Embracing Growth: Jenny Rogers' Journey from Music Teacher to Empowerment Coach
35:24
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35:24Jenny Rogers, a certified life elite coach and dynamic creator, joins us for an episode brimming with inspiration and authenticity. Known for her vibrant journey of dreaming big, Jenny shares how the steadfast support of her family fueled her ambition to live a life untethered by fear. Her engaging storytelling reveals how experiences as a music te…
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Styling Success and Empowering Communities: Carlina Alder and Azlinn Edwards on Running Azlinn Hope Boutique and Raising Breast Cancer Awareness
30:17
30:17
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30:17What if you could turn your passion for fashion into a powerhouse boutique that doubles as a force for good? Join us as we catch up with Carlina Alder and Azlinn Edwards, the mother-daughter duo behind Tennessee’s beloved fashion haven, Aslan Hope. Fresh off a dazzling fashion show that not only showcased the latest trends but also raised over $5,0…
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Sam Taylor and Steve Reed on Building Trust and Lasting Relationships
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35:09
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35:09Join us as Sam Taylor, visionary entrepreneur and owner of Property Experts, takes us on a journey from his beginnings at Cheers Restaurant to his successful transition into the tech world and finally, to his thriving career in real estate. Alongside Steve Reed of Benchmark Home Loans, Sam shares invaluable insights into how adaptability and innova…
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Legacy and Innovation in Family Pharmacy: Gina and Spencer Pinney's Story at Pinney’s Prescription Shop
33:19
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33:19How do you keep a family pharmacy thriving in today’s fast-paced world? Discover the secrets behind Penny’s Prescription Shop as we chat with Gina Pinney and her son Spencer, the dynamic duo carrying forward a legacy of personalized, community-focused service in Northeast Tennessee. Gina shares her heartfelt journey of following in her father Carl …
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Community Care and Legacy: Colton and Catherine Marcum's Journey with Marcum’s Pharmacy in Kingsport
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34:11Ever wondered what sets a local, family-owned pharmacy apart from the big chains? Join us as we sit down with Colton Marcum, the passionate owner and pharmacist of Marcum's Pharmacy in Kingsport, Tennessee. From heartwarming stories about his grandfather, Carl, who founded the pharmacy in 1962, to the challenges faced by small business owners today…
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Navigating Realtor Commissions: Jonathan Tipton and Steve Reed discuss the NAR Settlement
15:48
15:48
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15:48Are seller-paid commissions affecting your closing costs? Not at all! Tune in to Benchmark Happenings for an eye-opening conversation with Jonathan Tipton and Steve Reed from Benchmark Home Loans. They unravel the complexities of the National Association of Realtors Settlement and clarify its impact on real estate transactions. Discover the recent …
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Harnessing the Future: Austin Ramsey's Insights on AI Integration and Data Privacy in Today's Digital Landscape
35:22
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35:22Prepare to have your perspective on artificial intelligence turned upside down by Austin Ramsey, the trailblazing entrepreneur who challenges us all to "crush the box." We uncover how AI is already shaping our daily lives, from the unseen algorithms on social media to the geospatial mapping that guides our commute. Austin also gives us a sneak peek…
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Reclaiming Life Through Fitness: Aaron Grunke's Journey from Cancer Survivor to Founder of Survivor Fitness
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30:35Ever wondered how fitness could be the key to reclaiming life after a cancer diagnosis? Meet Aaron Grunke, the founder of Survivor Fitness, who transformed his harrowing battle with cancer into a beacon of hope for other survivors. Aaron shares the raw and emotional journey from being a 21-year-old college student facing the stark realities of canc…
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From Love to Legacy: Jamie Jackson's Journey in Wedding Planning and Community Service
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32:05What happens when a young woman from the Tri-Cities area channels her marital bliss into a full-fledged career? Meet Jamie Jackson, the dynamic founder of Jamie Events, who turned her post-wedding enthusiasm into a thriving business. Jamie's story is one of passion and perseverance, starting from her humble beginnings to becoming a sought-after wed…
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Resilience and Innovation in the Beauty Industry: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Terry Kazmaier and Shanoa Pruitt
37:05
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37:05Discover the incredible journey of Terry Kazmaier and Shanoa Pruitt as they share their entrepreneurial story in the beauty industry. From launching Sugar Mama amidst the economic downturn of 2008 to forming a transformative partnership in 2014, their narrative is a testament to resilience and innovation. Terry's need for beauty services beyond sta…
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Supporting Children's Emotional Well-being: Insights from Counselor Cindy Ketron on Mental Health Challenges and Counseling Strategies
35:04
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35:04What if your child’s emotional challenges could be better managed with the right tools and support? Join us in this eye-opening episode where we speak with Cindy Ketron, a licensed counselor with 36 years of experience, to uncover the pressing issues surrounding children's mental health today. Cindy's extensive background in clinical social work, f…
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Anchoring Dreams: Aiden and Lauren Moore's Voyage to First-Time Homeownership with Benchmark Home Loans
39:37
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39:37Embarking on the journey of first-time home ownership can feel like navigating a maze without a map. But fear not, as our latest episode brings you the compelling story of Aiden and Lauren Moore, who, with the aid of Benchmark Home Loans, transformed their high school romance and pirate-themed pickup lines into a partnership for life. Celebrating f…
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Leadership Beyond the Uniform: Rob Campbell's Journey from Military Service to Entrepreneurship
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32:04When the uniform comes off and the echoes of a disciplined military life fade into the background, what's left? For Rob Campbell, it's a wealth of leadership prowess and a true passion for guiding others. We're honored to have Rob, a 27-year military vet turned author, coach, and entrepreneur, join us to unpack his exceptional journey from the bask…
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Unveiling the Power of Functional Integrative Medicine with Dr. Tom Rogers
32:48
32:48
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32:48Embarking on a transformative health journey can be bewildering, but Dr. Tom Rogers of Performance Medicine charts a course that's as revolutionary as it is enlightening. With his own family's health challenges as the catalyst, he takes us through his evolution from a traditional family physician to a trailblazer in functional integrative medicine—…
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Navigating Personalized Healthcare: Andy Rogers on Tailoring Wellness and Hormone Therapy
30:55
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30:55Embark on a transformative journey through the world of personalized healthcare with guest Andy Rogers from Performance Medicine, as we peel back the layers of conventional treatment to reveal a tailored approach to wellness. In a discussion rooted in the philosophy of patient-centered care, we uncover the essence of what makes Andy's father, Dr. T…
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Crafting Dreams into Reality: The Art of Custom Homebuilding with Patterson Homes
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33:08Embark on a journey through the world of custom homebuilding with Travis Patterson and Aiden Moore of Patterson Homes, the masterminds turning dreams into doorsteps in Northeast Tennessee. This episode peels back the layers of their entrepreneurial story, from Travis's leap of faith into the industry to Aiden's strategic financial steerage as CFO. …
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Honoring Service and Sacrifice: The Legacy of Mountain Home National Cemetery with Sue Jehlen and Joey Stewart
31:14
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31:14As the golden hues of sunrise touched the gravestones at Mountain Home National Cemetery, I couldn't help but feel the weight of history and valor that surrounded me. Today's podcast is a commemorative journey with Sue Jehlen, the esteemed director, and Joey Stewart, as they share the profound stories embedded in the hallowed grounds of this Tennes…
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Presence and Purpose: Houston Kitts on Nurturing Faith in Youth with Young Life
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33:29When Houston Kitts, area director for Young Life in Bristol, Virginia, stopped by our podcast, he didn't just bring stories—he brought a testament to the power of presence in the lives of young people. The thread of our conversation wove through the heart of Young Life's mission, to introduce the love of Jesus Christ to every teen, reaching far bey…
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The Blueprint for Thriving in Mortgage Markets with Expert Insights from Benchmark Home Loans
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31:50Unlock the secrets behind expanding a mortgage business with the dynamic father-daughter duo, Steve Reed and Brittany, from Benchmark Home Loans. This episode gives you an exclusive peek into their strategic expansion into Knoxville, revealing why the right person at the helm is more crucial than market potential alone. Brittany, with her fresh per…
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Navigating Change in the Digital World with Pointech's Founder, Austin Ramsey
33:17
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33:17Have you ever wondered what happens when childhood ambition meets tech innovation? Tune in for an exhilarating chat with Austin Ramsey, the mastermind behind Point Tech, whose journey from a kid running a DJ business to launching a thriving tech company embodies the entrepreneurial spirit at its best. Ramsey's tale is a tapestry woven with threads …
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Navigating the Year with Purpose: A Masterclass in Goal Setting with Steve Reed
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24:35As we usher in a fresh chapter with the turn of the calendar, Steve Reed from Benchmark Home Loans joins us to unravel the enigma of goal setting in our latest heart-to-heart. Promising to transform the way you approach your aspirations, this episode is a deep dive into why that ambitious list might just be the compass you need to steer through the…
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Empowerment and Community Support with Agape Women's Services
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31:23Forget everything you know about non-profit organizations, because Leslie Walker from Agape Women's Services is here to share an inspiring tale of unconditional love and community support that is simply too incredible to pass up. Imagine a place where both men and women receive much-needed assistance throughout a pregnancy journey, a place that not…
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Indigo Hills Retreat: An Oasis for Pastors with Kristy Hensley
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27:14Ever wondered how burnout can affect those in high-stress roles such as ministry leaders, first responders, and nurses? Well, this episode aims to shed light on this critical issue, with the help of our special guest, Christine Hensley. As a licensed counselor and a crucial part of Seat of Hope Ministry, Christine shares the intriguing story of how…
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The Homeowner's Guide: Insights from Ashley Stewart of Benchmark Home Loans
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26:03Curious about how the home loan process is managed behind the scenes? We had a fascinating conversation with Ashley Stewart, a production partner at Benchmark Home Loans. Ashley has worked tirelessly to make sure that each client feels comfortable and informed throughout the home loan process. Her approach is centered around understanding the clien…
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Revitalizing Bristol: An Inside Look with Emily Champagne from Believe In Bristol
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29:02You'd think that being a part of a movement revitalizing an entire town would be an overwhelming task, but not for Emily Champagne. As the Associate Director of Believe In Bristol, she's been part of this transformative journey from the get-go, starting out as an intern in her high school days! In our chat with Emily, you'll learn about the evoluti…
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Mark Isaac's Secret to Fitness: Strength Over Cardio
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32:27Meet Mark Isaac, a seasoned personal trainer and the driving force behind "Hit the Mark Personal Training". This episode is an enlightening journey through Mark's world of fitness and health, revealing how his unique approach and insights have helped countless individuals attain their fitness goals, all while enjoying the food they love. We discuss…
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From Diapers to Deeds: A Mortgage Industry Perspective
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17:39Ever thought about how to juggle the intricate dance of mortgages, parenthood, and business? Join us as we sit down with our very own loan officers, Brock and Lauren, who are pirouetting through this exact scenario. They open up about the monumental changes brought on by new parenthood and how that translates into their professional life in the mor…
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Empowering Communities through Accessible Housing: Insights from Laura Kelly
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31:00How far can affordable housing go in transforming communities and fostering true independence? Join us as we navigate this intriguing terrain with our esteemed guest, Laura Kelly, the Executive Director of Holston Habitat for Humanity. Laura unpacks the impressive work of Habitat for Humanity, explaining their three-pronged role as a builder, lende…
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Shaping a Compassionate Future for Animals - Sullivan County Animal Shelter
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29:21Have you ever wondered how you could make a difference in the life of a shelter animal? Join us as we sit down with the tireless Brandi Perky, director of Sullivan County Animal Shelter, and unravel her remarkable 10-year journey in animal welfare. From the cat room to the kennels and finally the office, Brandy recounts her experiences with passion…
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