North Georgia Life Podcast: Recent Episodes
North Georgia Life Podcast
This podcast is created for the sole purpose of helping connect people in the North Georgia region with lifestyle components (ie restaurants, activities, and organizations) -- and the people and stories behind them -- to hopefully make life a little better. We want to unearth some hidden gems in our area to our audience, give you ideas on family fun days, and venues to reconnect with the people you love to spend your life with! If you'd like to be more involved in what we're doing, or have ideas for featured podcasts/episodes, please email is at northgeorgialifepodcast@gmail.com
Your day-dream of having your own farm, a healthier life, & eating food that heals vs hurts you may not be as far away as you think! Hopewell Farms GA is a regenerative farm in North Georgia that is 100% organic, non-GMO, pesticide-free, chemical-free... all the free! The farm started with a former commercial banker who had a dream of helping heal the land, feed local families high-quality, healthy, nutritient-rich food -- and figuring out a lot of the details along the way.
Whether you're looking to get tips for things specific to farming itself, or have your own business and want the answer to the age-old question "What's the one thing that fixes every other thing in my business?" THIS. IS. FOR. YOU!
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A lot of us wish life had a little more 'with' in life, but that's especially true for one group of people; families caring for someone with special needs and/or a disability. FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) saw a need, a place & a way to come alongside families in this population -- and the FCA All-Abilities Camp was born. Regardless of your faith, background, or current place in life, there is something to encourage every heart and every family in this story of hope, help, and loving our neighbor -- and it's FREE.
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It's a store, it's a brand, it's a vibe, but even more than that, it's a great story! Nestled in downtown Clayton, Wander is a location that sees thousands of feet through it's doors every year and sends even more out with a smile and a renewed love for all-things North Georgia.
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Tucked away in North Georgia is NoGa Wild... a 60ac property featuring all-things-animals is a great stop for a variety of animals enthusiasts. There are almost more functions of NoGA Wild than there are animals at the property, but don't take our word for it... go see it yourself! A great stop for enjoying beautiful North Ga!
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Every coffee shop has a unique story; Because Coffee in Dawsonville has that and then some! A group of friends has found a way to not only start a business together, but that business is growing, expanding, and helping change lives both locally and around the planet. With multiple locations already open and more expansion on the way, the owners and partnership of Because Coffee not only still like each other, they are changing lives for the better along the way. How? Because... Coffee.
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We've been wanting to get this episode launched for months because it may very well be THE episode that radically transforms your health -- and thus, your life. In this episode, WellBeings founder, Blake Godbee shares what brought him into the wellness space from a life, health, & career perspective, as well as some of the stories of health transformation that are already happening for those in North Georgia simply by 'just showing up'. No push-ups, no coordination classes, no schedule interruptions. Just showing up. I expect this will be one of the most shared episodes we've ever done. Enjoy!
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Looking for the 'easy button' that will build friendships, help preserve the beauty of North Georgia, and give you some fresh air with great stories to tell? Look no further that Georgia ForestWatch! A unique non-profit in our North Georgia area that has a mission to preserve & protect the natural beauty that we call 'home', specifically the national forest🌳. Have a listen and check out their upcoming events at https://gafw.org/
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While Bryan is not related to the champ Evander, he has built a system for helping pretty much anyone, pretty much anywhere, become a champion of their health, fitness, and lifestyle. Bryan is relatively new to the North Georgia area, but has found a unique niche to helping people in all stages of life close the chapters of frustration and failing and begin writing a better story of life, health, and fitness in a way that actually works with the rhythm of their busy lives. And have a listen to his podcast "Winning Small with Bryan Holyfield"
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A "hidden gem" doesn't begin to describe this property or the operation that is Project Chimps. Nestled in the outskirts of Blue Ridge, GA., this wildlife sanctuary is unlike any you'll have experienced before and is one of those experiences you'll be talking about for years to come. We share a few laughs, a few marking moments, and a few stories from the properties past, present, and future that will make you look at your calendar and begin planning a visit yourself!
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If you wish some version of the sitcom "Cheers" came back to life in the modern era, enter Blue 42 in Dahlonega, GA. Situated walking distance from the historic Dahlonega Square and University of North Georgia, this is what I have dubbed a "new staple" in the North GA landscape. Great coffee, locally grown cannabis products sold responsibly to help those who need the healing side of the plant-properties, and a sweet treat at 4:20 on the regular. Have a listen and come back to "Norm!".
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If you need a day to slow down, breathe deep over some divine scenery with your adult beverage of choice, you'll be hard-pressed (that's a vintner pun) to find a better place than Living Water Winery & Vineyard in Blairsville, GA. Then again, if your flavor is turning the dial up a little on the festivities with a glass of wine -- or craft beer -- or a wine-cocktails... this is also the place! If you don't believe me, check out our social media for a sneak peak... you will be planning a stop within days, I can pretty much guarantee it. And btw... there's some INSPIRING lessons about life, family, and following your calling... PLUS the best Lighting-Round answer I think we've ever had!
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If you're looking to make your day better, Dahlonega Healing Herds is the 'easy-button' in North Georgia. As one of the newer non-profits, this organization is already helping heal both donkeys and people in ways that will continue to blossom over the coming years. And our TikTok handle is @there_is_good_realtors :)
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Good coffee is one thing. REALLY good coffee that REALLY helps people -- well, that's in a class of it's own. Phoenix Roasters started out with a mission to help hurting people, morphed into a world-class coffee company, and has been doing both for years now -- not just here in North Georgia, but around the world as well! Get inspired to 'make a living' through making it more about a life worth living and a legacy worth leaving!
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Ever wanted to know where honey producers get started? This is your behind the curtains look at how a former pastor and his wife became one of the faces of local honey in North Georgia. Such a great story about the power of one relationship and one conversation helping shape life for the better!!
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This is a recorded session of me answering questions from current college students at the University of North Georgia surrounding all-things-real-estate-and-economy . Even if you're not in college, there's something here for everyone... I can pretty much guarantee!
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As Fall rolls in, everyone is looking for that North Georgia 'hole-in-the-wall' location to stop in at going to/from the scenic views for authentic, local handcrafted everything. This-be-that! Cowboy Bob's has just about everything for your taste buds to put the exclamation mark on a perfect day in North Georgia!
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With multiple locations in the North Georgia area, NoFo is a small business that's making big waves... and doing it in and through what has been a extremely challenging time for a lot of small businesses. Not only is NoFo making headlines in their creations behind the bar, they have built their business and brand focused on excellence in something else that's worth taking notes on... 'community'. This episode is one you'll thank me for later!
Our family has made Wildwood Outfitters an annual tradition for the last 6-7yrs... and if you go, you probably will too! A chance to slow down, make some great memories, reconnect with whoever you're with, & enjoy the beauty that is 'North GA' from one of our famous waterways... The Chattahoochee River! We're always glad we went and we're always excited to go back! Â
If your soul feels like it's in need of a little fresh air & refreshment from the beauty that is North GA, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better group of people to build friendships alongside, all while making life better for all who call this place 'home' -- both above and below water. Â
Take a look into a non-profit that goes beyond the banks of the trout stream in serving our community & has a number of chapters/locations to connect with here in the North GA area. Today's episode features the Georgia Foothills Chapter of Trout Unlimited with special guest Jimmy Harris.
What's easy to get to, easy on the knees/joints, and fun for literally all ages? Fort Yargo State Park! Come on a quick tour of one of the most convenient State Parks to get to.
Looking to unwind, relax, and enjoy not just a great glass of wine, but a gorgeous setting... enter Cloudland Vineyard & Winery! Today we delve into the background and story that brought about one of the fastest growing secrets in our North Georgia area... you won't be disappointed at the wine, the story, or the business/life take-aways for anyone looking to start a business or chase a dream!
Interested in changing the way your brain functions without Tony Robbins or a pill? Then this episode is for you. This is a unique, non-invasive solution to a host of issues that are affecting our 21st century world and there's a North GA solution. Enjoy!
In this episode we dive into how Care Portal is changing lives, and saving families in our local communities.Â
Looking for a great location to explore the outdoors, golf with incredible scenery, book a long weekend getaway, or support North Georgia non-profits while having an amazing time yourself? This is the ticket you never knew you needed, but once you have been, you'll be back!!!
Join me as I dive into an amazing story on doing business with family and the love of outdoor adventures. Blue Ridge Adventure Park is the place to be this summer, enjoy listening to this on your way there and you'll know exactly what to expect!
Wanting to make your landscape or garden better in 2022? Want to turn your brown-thumb into a green-thumb? Enter the world of Lanier Nursery! With a wealth of knowledge and plant life, you'll find just about anything you're looking for and help grow a local community resource that is on the rise!
Special-needs is a growing segment of the population in our world & with so many resources for these children and families through grade-school, there is little focus on how to facilitate a meaningful life for them as they transition to adulthood. This episode highlights one of those places in our community that is doing something special in the realm of adult special needs... and your taste buds will thank you for it later!!
Prior to 2020, the internet was almost a life-necessity for in-home use. With life after 2020, it is even more so. While not a small, local business, we thought it beneficial to take a look into some of the projects to expand high-speed internet and fiber in our North Georgia region, as this is becoming increasingly vital to thousands of newly established 'home offices' in residential properties, not to mention growing commercial corridors.
Want to put some great close-to-home trips on your 2021 calendar? This is your ticket to an awesome year ahead!
Need great ideas for the gift-giving seasons that's upon us? Listen in... you can thank me later!!
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a selfie-loving-hipster, there's something profound about experiencing a wild animal up close and in-person... and this is absolutely no exception! Listen in on our conversation atop Georgia's highest point that's just a launching pad for these raptors.
When does a car run its best? When it is well-maintained & has all the components for all the systems it needs, right? For many people, we have taken the route of medicating to mask problems and/or symptoms instead allowing our bodies to heal and regain our health naturally. Regardless of your age or current health, there's something for everyone at The Wellness Way.Â
Michael has been a community staple in the Athens area for decades now. In this episode, we talk about a lot of the what & how with his life. In the midst of life's most trying circumstances, Michael shares why he presses on & gives a little bit of encouragement to all of us in the midst of a tough year for a lot of people.
Know anyone that's dramatically improved their overall health through hormone therapy? If you don't, you will in the years to come. As people look for natural ways to improve their health, physique, and lifestyle, we give you an inside look into a location in North Georgia that has been helping people do that very thing for years.
Think this is 'just another corn maze'? WRONG! What an amazing story of family heritage, modern day entrepreneurism, and family-focused passion... and your bonus feature this episode is adding something unexpected to your Bucket List. Listen in & come on out to the Buford Corn Maze!
Heartfelt, practical, and inspiring... and this episode came from something we all do: mindlessly scrolling on Facebook! It only takes a moment to change your life, and it can only take a bed to keep a family together. Listen in on the great work that Sleep in Heavenly Peace is doing all around our community and country!
Looking for low-cal, energy, deliciousness, and some inspiration amidst your life in 2020? Spend a few minutes listening to this episode and we'll check all those boxes together!
Want to hear a really cool origin story that sounds like something from the Hobbit? Check out the story behind Brasstown Bald and get a glimpse of one of the most sought after tourist locations in the North Georgia region.
If MacGyver had a wilderness counterpart, it'd be Mark Warren. The story of Mark's love for nature and how Medicine Bow came to be what it is today is nothing short of fascinating!
Looking for a short drive to a beautiful location with a ton of surrounding activities and restaurants to enjoy as well? Anna Ruby Falls may be exactly what you're looking for! Today's episode shares a little bit of the history and what Anna Ruby Falls has to offer in our North Georgia region.
Today's episode is a little break from the norm, but you'll absolutely love the final product... a pie that everyone will be talking about for a long time coming!
This episode has both a great story in the business, but also will give you some REALLY practical insights to apply to your next encounter with a snake, as well as a free resource for easy snake identification if you call North Georgia 'home'. And if you have a snake that needs to be removed from your property, you now have a resource for that as well!
Frogtown Winery is some-kinda-special in the North Georgia region. Get ready to be absolutely blown away by what you're about to hear... this North Georgia vineyard is going to change... well, everything! From the origins, to the awards, to the benefits of being one of their Citizens... just get ready is all I can say!
Want to explore some of the places we're sharing on the podcast, but can't seem to get ahead of your yard and things around the house? Here's a few tips that will give you some time back in your schedule & keep everyone safe in the process!
Regardless of what your interests are, Cloudland Canyon State Park has both the natural beauty & the variety of activities for every interest and activity level. This is one spectacular hidden gem in North Georgia and without fear of overselling it... it's a MUST for any outdoor enthusiast!Â
Possibly one of the most insightful & timely messages for our current day... not to mention crazy-awesome ambience & cuisine, right in downtown Winder, GA. Bistro Off Broad is a MUST!
You're going to want to do this... trust me! One of the most fun experiences I've had in a while. Listen in on how this came about and then get it on your calendar!
One of those things that you just need to see for yourself to be able to really take it in... and then you can take some home! The Nora Mill Granary in Helen, GA has truly stood the test of time & is still churning out product to send all over the United States.
Your taste buds will be in a full-on sprint to bring you back to The Galloping Gallette, once you've taken your first bite! Located in Downtown Braselton, this authentic French restaurant has something for every part of your taste buds to enjoy... and let's be honest... smiling is the universal language!Â
There is simply no way to go to Black Rock Mountain State Park and not say "Oh. My. Goodness?!" over and over again. The unmatched scenic views of the mountains, combined with the natural beauty of North Georgia, make this an absolute 'must' in North Georgia!
Whether you're seeking an outdoor adventure, a weekend getaway, or a trophy trout, Smithgall Woods has something for everyone. Located in the tranquil outskirts of Helen, GA, Smithgall Woods State Park is one of the more well-kept getaways in the North Georgia mountains. In this episode we share the unique history of the park along with all the park offers... there's literally an outdoor experience for people of all activity and interest levels. Â
Talk about a hidden treasure?! So many people are looking for convenient ways to eat better and FEEL better in 2020 -- and Fry Farm has what you're looking for! From humble beginnings, they have scaled to provide both local restaurants and local families with fresh, organic produce that is second to none -- and they're still growing!
If you are looking for something fun for all ages, taking a tour of an actual gold mine is going to be a great experience to go on, and it's right here in our back yard! Listen to the history of the first US Gold Rush and take a tour through a pretty incredible part of history in our nation.
Winner and finalist of multiple awards for the state of Georgia, Adriana, the owner of Alta Cucina Italia and a north Georgia resident shares her story of where all the incredible flavors in her products came from. She shares her passion for making good, healthy foods that are both delicious & versatile... you'll taste buds will give you a standing ovation!
I first went in almost a year ago because a friend owned the place and I needed lunch. I walked out from that lunch a fan-for-life. Without fear of over-selling, this is one pretty incredible place to fill your stomach and wet your whistle!
Regardless of where you come from, you'll be hard-pressed to find an organization that is doing more practical and tangible things to restore dignity, hope & a sense of community to the lives of the people they touch. Straight Street Ministries is an organization that is feeding hungry families, restoring trafficked & abused women, and even finding ways to provide birthday parties for kids in our community. Â
The story behind this business is inspiring. The concept of the business is brilliant. And the testimonials that have come from the kids, adults, and families that have come from the School of Rock in Buford, GA are nothing short of moving. This is a great story of doing what you love and building a great community in the process, no matter what your age is.
This episode is a truly incredible interview with a local business owner in Gainesville, GA. Her story of adversity, faith, and having so many things in life come full circle should be a testimony and encouragement to all of us that if we're not dead, God's not done. Â
This is the kind of story you need to share with both your kids and the person in the mirror. Anything. Is. Possible. With an idea, determination, and a community, a relatively normal wife & mom is on the road to fundamentally changing the game for both local families and local farmers. This story will inspire you & after months of trying to get this episode lined up, I am so pleased to bring you the story behind Suwanee Whole Life Co-Op. Â
Today I share some tips from my mental rolodex to make this time of year a little better & sweeter, from how to inexpensively defrost your windshield, to Christmas dinner menu planning & hiding gifts from your kids, to book recommendations for your downtime... we cover it all! Â
Here's what I want...
- Private forest
- Walking trails
- Creek/pond
- Pet-friendly
- Close to home
- Not crowded
... Welp, I've got you covered! Listen in to undoubtedly one of the best kept secrets in our area.
There are very few venues in a region of the state, much less the country, that literally have something for everyone about each and every month. From national and international championships to introductory lessons and on to community fundraisers and food-truck-Friday's, this is a North Georgia staple that is about to make a big splash with some of the upcoming renovations and improvements planned for the coming years.
If you look up The Waterfall Club online, the pictures are kind of like looking at pictures of Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon, etc. They're not photoshopped, but when you see it in person, there's just no comparison. If you're looking for the finer things in life, with a setting that will take your breath away, and without all the driving or traffic -- this is your answer!
I FOUND IT. I FOUND IT. I FOUND IT!!! Ever felt like you were Will Ferrell in "Elf" where he exclaims, "I'm in love, I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!"? That was me coming home to my wife after my first trip to Braselton Fine Bakery. Hands down, the best bread, pastry, etc. products I've had in the state of Georgia in 15yrs. For all my yankee ex-pats, you're welcome... your soul needs this place. Â
Listen in on a great story with an even better taste!
It's hard to even know what to write. Â
Coffee, good. Â
Joy, good. Â
Hugs, good.
All three... life-changing. Extra Special People (ESP) and Java Joy, on the outskirts of Athens, GA are transforming the lives of not only the special needs community they serve, but every life that they touch. Â
No longer just peaches, strawberries, and boiled peanuts, Jaemor Farms is now a destination location for schools, business departments, and even your special someone for a night out on the town! Whether it's getting lost in the Fall Corn Maze or planning a date with your special someone, you'll love the history and up-n-coming events at Jaemor!
Never set foot in the woods, but want to create memories with your spouse, kids, or extended family member? Â
Avid lake angler that's looking for a new challenge in the water?
Look no further than the world famous Unicoi Outfitters! Have a listen to how and where this world-class outfit came from and some of the great experiences waiting for you and your love-ones.
A huge part of the unseen world around us is the needs surrounding the foster & adoption community. Said differently, there's needs that children & families have in our community that they'll never share... but there are ways to help! If you have nothing other than a little 'want to' surrounding this element of life in our area, you'll want to listen!! Jean Rector with Promise 686 shares her story and some real practical ways anyone can be involved in supporting our local foster/adoption community even if just a one-time thing.
Talk about a hidden gem in North Georgia! The Planetarium is one of those things that almost to a person, everyone I've talked to about the planetarium had no idea there was something this cool right here in North Georgia, not to mention it is open to the public and FREE! Want a Friday night with the family, significant other, or group of friends you'll all remember for years to come? Look no further than Dahlonega!
Wanna freak some people out? Spend some money on giant slabs of granite that will stand the test of time. While there's no shortage of mystery and conspiracy theories surrounding this North Georgia destination, the Georgia Guidestones, it is a something to behold in person. We met on site in Elberton, GA to get some of the history from a local granite industry expert.
Regardless of what you think about the underlying 'purpose' behind America's Stonehenge, it's is aÂ
Do you have a hankering for a great variety of fresh seafood, but don't want to drive all the way to the coast? Well, look no further! Gainesville Seafood Market has brought the coast to you. With a better variety than most coastal seafood restaurants (yes, really!), this is going to be a restaurant you return to time and time again. You'll love it even more when you hear about the story and work ethic behind the owner, a true Restauranteur!
If you love coffee, the scenic north Georgia foothills, and just want to get away for a couple hours or pure bliss, you need to plan a trip to JumpinGoat Coffee Roasters! Â
In a million years I would have never expected a coffee shop in Cleveland, GA to be the home of the best coffee I've ever had in my life, but that is the reality I came across. Hands down, THE BEST COFFEE I'VE EVER HAD. How? They roast their own coffee beans! No one else does. The only thing I can compare it to is the taste difference of a tomato from your garden compared to the grocery store. Not even in the same galaxy. Â
You'll go a skeptic; you'll leave a believer.
Culture, morale, and team-focus are HUGE elements of not only gaining market share and improving profitability, but are some hallmarks for retaining great employees and leaders in your organization. Lapdog, inc. is a local business that helps you find the win-win-win for your business, your employees, and your future. Â
You'll want to have your calendar or day planner in front of you for this episode! A lot of us are looking for new and fun things to do on the weekends and/or with family... well... we found it for you!! Located on the outskirts of Helen, GA sits a 173 acres of memories just waiting on you to arrive. Â
Take a peak into some of the backstory behind a ministry and organization that seeks to help those experiencing homelessness, as well as those who are seeking help from domestic violence. NSpire Outreach shares a little of their history and some practical ways we can all help make a difference in the lives of those who are in very trying seasons of life here in our local north Georgia community.
Our podcast's maiden voyage... what we're doing with this podcast and why. Check it out!