Greater Conversations: Recent Episodes
Greater Winston-Salem, Inc.
Greater Conversations showcases our local businesses, our community, and the stories of the people that live, work, and play in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. As you immerse yourself in each episode, you'll understand why our team at Greater Winston-Salem, Inc, is excited to share these stories and why this area attracts new development, sparks innovation, and draws people from all walks of life to plant roots here. This is where it starts. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Truliant.
"We want businesses to learn how to work on their business rather than in their business. That's the goal – for a business owner to not be in the daily grind, if at all possible, but to be able to strategically plan, and to look at the future." Martha Larson, Director of the Forsyth Tech Small Business Center, has been in business development for over 20 years. With three degrees focused on business, including a law degree, specifically a JD in Banking, Corporate, Finance, and Securities Law, she and her team at the Small Business Center support small businesses in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County by providing business education, one-on-one counseling, and resources free of charge. Martha joins us to discuss programming, mentoring, and incoming events for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"We have a duty ... to equip them and give them tools and skills they need to go to the next level." Since 2021, Alesia Hilton, Director of Career Readiness at Greater Winton-Salem, Inc., has led the creation and development of the ASPIRE WS internship program, serving high school juniors and seniors in Title I schools throughout the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools district. Alesia joins us to share how the program has grown, the workforce skills and credentials students receive, and the impact the program is making. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Stephanie Miles and her sister Cherese Blue launched a joint venture to offer direct primary care and mental health services – a first in Winston-Salem. In 2022, they opened Smith's Primary Care & Wellness to ensure their community is cared for physically, mentally, and emotionally, all in one location. Stephanie, a board-certified primary care Nurse Practitioner, joins us to chat about the practice and its services, their team's emphasis on patient education, and how even the spouses of her patients "are noticing the change and how they feel about themselves and their health." Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Imagine your preschooler reading your shopping list and then asking you to add their favorite snack because it wasn't on the list. Children are learning to read as early as age three at Bailey Preschool, recognized as one of the best preschools in Winston-Salem by Kid-Friendly Triad. The preschool utilizes a whole-child approach addressing child health, nutrition, and mental well-being to prepare students for success in kindergarten and beyond. Denette Bailey, owner and director of Bailey Preschool and the author of the children's book, "Big Dreams, No Fears," joins us to share the importance of safe and nurturing environments and tailored curriculums for children to learn. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
We recently lost a pillar in our community, Mr. William Alexander McClain, lovingly known as Mr. Bill. In memory of someone who gave so much to our community, we'd like to share this episode with you again. Please enjoy the conversation. // At the age of 16, with 8-track tapes of James Brown, BB King, and Aretha Franklin in hand, Bill McClain fell in love with the idea of becoming a deejay. Spinning tracks on the ones and twos at events throughout high school and college, his passion for the industry grew. Fast forward, Mr. Bill's Productions has been in business in Winston-Salem for over 30 years, providing entertainment for events, from small backyard BBQs and family reunions to weddings, corporate events, and stadium concerts. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
In part two of our conversation with Christy Cox Spencer, president of JKS Incorporated, we chat about her passion project, Robert Hall, a private event space with an eclectic, urban vibe in the Industry Hill neighborhood of Winston-Salem. Christy shares the challenges during the renovations, the story of the authentic 1920s mahogany bar said to have come from one of Al Capone's hangouts, the motivation behind her extensive community involvement, and her advice to young women. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
What do NASCAR, music festivals, bowl games, and Industry Hill have in common? JKS Incorporated – an experiential marketing company based in Winston-Salem with clients across the US. Christy Cox Spencer, president of JKS, joins us to share the excitement of celebrating the company's 40th anniversary and the lessons in resiliency she has learned as a leader and business owner. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Shayna Smith and Tevin Swinson grew up together in Winston-Salem. Years later, they started their careers just days apart at The Winston-Salem Chronicle. Shayna, the marketing communications manager, and Tevin, a senior reporter for The Chronicle, join us to share the history of this multi-award-winning periodical as it marks its 50th anniversary. We discuss the dynamics of print and digital for this local paper, how it sets itself apart, and its upcoming events to connect and celebrate the community. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Banks Shepherd fell in love with college sports at an early age. His parents told him some of his first words as a toddler were related to college sports! Today, Banks is the General Manager for Wake Forest Sports Properties in Winston-Salem and is living his dream. He joins us to share what his team does behind the scenes to create a great fan experience and how they help brands locally, regionally, and nationally to engage Wake Forest fans, alums, and students. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"Transportation is access – and it's access to opportunity." Courtney and Gregory James, co-owners of Support Systems of Forsyth County Transportation, join us to share their entrepreneurial journey. What started as an idea for a supportive service in Winston-Salem has become an award- and multi-grant-winning business in four years, growing its fleet from two to 10. Learn why this industry in this community is dear to Courtney and James, the steps and resources they used to grow, the innovations they're currently using, and their plans for an eco-friendly future. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"To create the ideas and then for them to see the ideas actually work ... puts people in a different place to take their business to the next level." Micah Ray launched D4 Concepts with his business partner and lifelong friend Mike Witt. These Winston-Salem natives use their talents and experience to help strengthen small businesses with people development, strategic planning, and innovation process. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Winston-Salem has had a history of professional ice hockey since 1973, when the Polar Twins played in the Southern Hockey League. Now, fans are supporting the Carolina Thunderbirds in its eighth season with the Federal Hockey League. Co-owner Cary Ross, Head Coach Steve "Harry" Harrison, and Assistant Coach Jon Buttitta, join us to share the team's love of the community, what's coming up this season for fans, and a new program being launched in collaboration with the City of Winston-Salem and the police department to advance the sport of hockey to kids in underserved communities. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Carol Davis, Executive Director of SG Atkins Community Development Corporation, joins us to share the historic connection between the organization and Winston-Salem State University. In this pivotal role, Carol is on a mission for equity and social justice to increase the homeownership and business ownership rates in East Winston-Salem. For more than two decades, SG Adkins CDC has worked to revitalize communities near the campus with affordable housing, supported entrepreneurs launching small businesses and increasing job creation in the area, and helped to develop leaders in neighborhood organizations. Sierra Palmer, Shared-Use Kitchen Manager and Business Counselor for the Women's Business Center at SG Atkins CDC, joins us to discuss those initiatives. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"They have this well-deserved, well-earned feeling of accomplishment that they can learn and tackle these new challenges. They're capable, and they're ready." Dan Wellman, Program Director for Moji Coffee + More, joins us to share his excitement and the mission of Winston Salem's only nonprofit coffee shop that provides meaningful employment and enriching workforce development to adults with differing abilities. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"The main thing is that they have autonomy and ownership over the destiny of their economic futures." Luke Hoffman, Regional Director, based in Winston-Salem, and Lauren Tudor, Executive Director of the North Carolina Employee Ownership Center, join us to talk about employee participation when they have a stake in a business and are involved in decision-making. They also share how employee ownership contributes to strengthening economies and living wages and how business owners can create access to a lasting legacy through an employee ownership opportunity. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"We search for a 'yes.' We look for ways to make deals work." Jamarkus Swinson is a yes-maker – in business and his personal life. He was part of the inaugural cohort of the Piedmont Federal Savings Bank GPS Program, an on-the-job training curriculum meant to recruit candidates of diverse backgrounds to become commercial bankers. In three short years, Jamarkus has rapidly climbed the ladder to become a Business Development Officer and Branch Manager at Piedmont Federal's ROAR location in Winston-Salem. Recognized as an emerging leader, he has recently been honored as a Winston Under 40 Leadership Award Winner. Jamarkus joins us, along with colleagues Ginger Salt, Chief Experience Officer, and Ned Erickson, Director of Community Impact, to discuss his career journey and Piedmont Federal's social investment strategy – people, place, and planet. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Hasani Mitchell, Community & Economic Development Program Administrator for Forsyth County Government, joins us to discuss his team's strategic work – from business recruitment and tax incentives to job creation. Hasani identifies and supports opportunities to increase economic development incentives, affordable housing, infrastructure development, and grant funding activities in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. We dive into all of that and discuss how ARPA funding led to the creation of the county's Microenterprise IDA Program for small businesses. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"Our core values are to put people first, listen then respond, innovate continuously, and give back to our community." Founded in Long Island, New York, in 2016, Darrell and Abbey Garner wanted to bring awareness of specialty coffee and loose-leaf tea to the area. During the height of the pandemic, the husband and wife duo relocated their small-batch roastery to Winston-Salem. Darrell and Abbey join us to discuss the transition and their connections to the area. Plus, they give us a coffee education in part one of this conversation. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
In part two of our conversation with Darrell and Abbey Garner, founders of ByGood Coffee in Winston-Salem, we dive into their entrepreneurial background and how Abbey's heritage sparked the creation of ByGood specialty loose-leaf teas. They also "spill the tea" on the next big thing they're working on to build community. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"If it goes on your floors, it’s in our stores." Blake Cook, District Manager, and Emily Winfrey, Store Manager and Design Consultant for USA Flooring, join us to chat about the meaning behind their motto and why selecting flooring isn't something to jump into lightly. USA Flooring is a full-service flooring retailer with five brick-and-mortar stores in North Carolina. Its Winston-Salem location has 8,000 square feet of space with a 3,000-square-foot showroom. From solid and engineered hardwood to luxury vinyl planks and carpets, homeowners, renters, contractors, and property managers can find everything under one roof and expert guidance throughout the decision-making process. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
The two Aarons of a/perture join us to chat about the art house cinema in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem. Aaron Botts is the theatre manager, and Aaron Kepley is the deputy director of this unique, nonprofit cinema founded by Lawren Desai. A/perture features diverse programming and award-winning films on its screens through partnerships with Sundance, the National Black Theatre Festival, National Theatre Live, and more. Creating a retro and engaging audience experience, it offers intimate theatre sizes and films that share compelling stories. Through its a/ mobile outdoor series, a/perture brings films to the community to enjoy for free, under the stars, at Bailey Park, MUSE, and Crossnore. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Identifying challenges and setbacks that cause stress and anxiety is the goal of Counseling with a Purpose. Founded in 2018 by Winston Under 40 Leadership Award Winner Shawanna Nicole Moore-Geter, her team uses advanced modalities such as brainspotting to help people facilitate change and achieve their goals. "Our real job is to ask the next best question ... to help you find insight." Shawanna and Counseling with a Purpose's COO Christopher Geter join us to share their entrepreneurship journey of helping others become the best version of themselves. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"We all go through things in life, and sometimes you need someone to help you filter through that information." At age 18, Mark Steele, executive director of Solutions for Independence, was paralyzed from his chest to his cervical five level. It was from this point of view, sitting in a wheelchair, that led him into the field of counseling. Mark joins us along with Adrian Boone, director of operations, to share more about this Winston-Salem-based disability advocacy organization that started in 1993. From providing services that lead to greater independence for individuals with disabilities to basketball, tennis, and other adaptive sports, Solutions for Independence has been serving Davie, Davidson, Forsyth, Stokes, Surry, and Yadkin Counties. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"Every brand is unique and should be presented in a unique way." The ability to think differently about brand creation and design is a concept that Elephant in the Room prides itself on. Chad Cheek, the owner of the award-winning firm, joins us to share ideas on brand design and strategic marketing, collaboration, and his passion and involvement in the arts – from serving on numerous boards such as the Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County and the North Carolina Arts Council to teaching Introduction to Arts Management at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"Small, small steps will add up to big results in your health." Alice Smith, registered dietitian and founder of Alice Approved, joins us to share ways everyone can fuel their bodies for success. A regularly featured expert on television and stage, she enthusiastically shares actionable steps to achieve wellness goals. Alice's philosophy is simple – simplify what you're eating, your nutrition, and your diet to "the fewer ingredients, the better" for health, vitality, energy, and "life" in your years. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
"Give everyone what you've got and teach it, and they'll be great." From helping his mom in the kitchen growing up to becoming a corporate trainer to help young chefs hone their craft, Brian DePaulis has had a lifelong love of food. He joins us to share his journey of opening Elevated Catering in Winston-Salem, the story behind the name, and his approach to crafting an elevated menu for any occasion – including their signature pork belly bites. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Cyrus Bush, a coach and mentor based in Winston-Salem, specializes in helping professionals, business owners, and entrepreneurs achieve success in relationships, business, and life through emotional freedom techniques or EFT. Cyrus joins us to share how EFT or tapping can help release negative emotions and limiting beliefs to break down barriers that stand in the way of success in relationships, business, and life. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Kathy Carr, executive director of SECU Family House, joins us in a conversation about this unique non-profit that serves adult patients and their caregivers when they travel to Winston-Salem for medical care. SECU Family House is a compassionate, comfortable alternative to a hospital waiting room or an expensive hotel. For over a decade, thousands of guests have depended upon the affordable lodging and supportive care of the 45-bedroom facility convenient to both Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center. Follow GWSI on social media, or email us at info@winstonsalem.com.For additional resources, information, and membership, visit winstonsalem.com
Ben Schwab, partner and architect at STITCH Design Shop, joins us to discuss the award-winning architectural and interior design firm that started in Winston-Salem. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary in the City of Arts and Innovation with a recent expansion into Greensboro, Ben shares how the business started and expanded with focuses on commercial, adaptive reuse, modern residential, and interior design. Inspired by modernist principles, STITCH's strong team of architects and designers create through the lens of context and sustainability.
The CARes Project is a nonprofit social enterprise and CDFI that offers vehicle financing for those with low and moderate incomes "because it's important for people to be able to get to work." Participants of the program become financially self-sufficient. Clients receive a low-interest car loan, money management skills, a personalized household budget, and financial confidence. Partnerships with dealerships, such as Flow Automotive, give participants access to assistance in choosing a car that fits their needs, a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty, and routine car maintenance for the life of the loan. The CARes Project's CEO, Scott McLaughlin, and Director of Strategic Initiatives, Melinda Beauchamp, join us to share more about the program, how to apply, and the life-transforming impact on its clients in Forsyth, Davie, and Davidson counties.
Growing up in a single-parent home, Jeff Davids witnessed his mother work three jobs to make ends meet. He realized that he must do something different to secure his financial future. So, he began building a retirement portfolio. "Everybody starts at zero," says Jeff. The more he learned, the more compelled he was to help his co-workers, especially young people, do the same. After 20 years in retail management, Jeff's passion led him to become a financial advisor in Winston-Salem with Edward Jones. Every day he helps people from all walks of life go from zero to making strides in the right direction.
After a long and rewarding 20-year career with Forsyth County Social Services, Wyomie Watson decided to jump into the world of entrepreneurship. Inspired by her grandmother's love of baking, Wyomie and her husband Eric launched RubyG's Buttercreme Sensations in 2019. The business has grown from a kiosk in Marketplace Mall in Winston-Salem to its own storefront on Peters Creek Parkway with online ordering and shipments available all over the country. Unique treats like banana pudding cake, bourbon pecan cookies, red velvet cream cookies, deep-fried cinnamon rolls, and custom wedding cakes, are just a few of the favorites on the menu connoisseurs crave.
In 2019, one month after his 22nd birthday, Mack Long took over the reins of Piedmont Disposal, the company his father, Kevin, started in 1999 with just one truck and a couple of dumpsters. Piedmont Disposal has expanded exponentially since its humble beginnings as a site solutions company specializing in commercial dumpster rental, portable restrooms, storage boxes, and consultative services for various industries across the southeast. Mack joins us to share the company's history, his father's battle with ALS, and the plans for continued growth and efficiency of this Winston-Salem-based company.
"When there's someone in need, and they don't have a voice, then you step in and help out." This philosophy shaped the life of Frank Cardenas, Co-Founder of FEDlogic, a federal benefits consulting firm. Growing up as a first-generation Mexican American, he helped his parents navigate and acquire the federal and state benefits they needed for his sister, Alex, who was born with a severe mental disability. Today, Frank and his team work with companies across America to help their workforce and human resource departments understand everything related to federal benefits, including social security, Medicaid, Medicare, VA benefits, and unemployment.
In 2009, some people thought the co-founders of Sightsource were out of their minds for launching a custom software development company in the middle of a financial crisis. "Regardless of the overall economic conditions, it's just a good space to be in." Sightsource's CFO and co-founder, Balint Gaspar, joins us to share the story behind this Winston-Salem-based company and their Empower program – a free, 8-week course where participants learn to code and launch their tech career.
As a young man growing up in Winston-Salem, Lou Baldwin would walk around downtown with its empty buildings and dusty streets and dream about what it could be. After graduating from UNC, he returned to Winston-Salem and purchased the real estate business his grandfather started in 1928. Lou then began a journey to get involved from a civic standpoint in redeveloping old buildings, preserving history, and bringing downtown Winston-Salem back to life.
The spirit of entrepreneurship continues to thrive in Winston-Salem, with new businesses opening their doors in unique spaces across our community. Aubrey Linville, owner and partner at Linville Team Partners Commercial Real Estate, sits down with us to reflect on his experience watching downtown come alive and Linville Team's first ten years supporting buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords with their commercial real estate needs.
Winston-Salem: the city of arts, innovation, and made-to-order bagels! We chatted with Marc Singer and Amy Singer Douglass, siblings and two of the three current owners of Bagel Station, which first opened its doors on Oakwood in 1990. Taking over the business in 2016, Amy describes themselves as "stewards" of the business, keeping everything quintessentially Bagel Station, down to the name and menu items - while expanding in size, location, and flavorful options.
Youth, college, and semi-professional soccer have been part of the Triad's sports scene for a long time. We now have even more reason to get excited about the sport with the addition of professional men's soccer. Carolina Core FC, an independent club, will join MLX Next Pro for the 2024 season. Managing Partner Megan Oglesby, President Andy Smith, Chief Operating Officer Evan Mitz, and Chief Sporting Officer Eddie Pope, join us to discuss bringing the highest level of competitive soccer to the region and how the Carolina Core Soccer Foundation will reduce barriers to access to the sport to lift the community on and off the field.
Some listen to their inner voice for guidance when launching a business. For Tim Beeman, president of Such-N-Such Limited, Inc, the sound of his voice inspired him – from voice-overs and sound effects to podcast hosting and production. "There's an art to saying the right thing at the right time." There's also an art to making what is said become an exciting audible experience. Known as "The Podfather," Tim does just that for clients and listeners in his downtown Winston-Salem studio, the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza. The broadcast and media company touts the production of over 3,100 podcasts and recently launched Camel City Radio, an internet radio station that plays "a bit of everything all the time."
Brittany Todd, CEO of B Balanced Counseling & Wellness in Winston-Salem, founded the practice with a clear mission of community and collaborative care, spreading mental health awareness, and bringing people together in health and wellness. "Mental health does not start or stop with a counseling session. It's just a small percentage of what it takes to be the best versions of ourselves." As a former Olympic hopeful, chronic overachiever, recovering perfectionist, and someone who suffered from her own mental health obstacles, Brittany uses her experiences and expertise in psychology and clinical counseling to support clients' balance and wellness goals.
Plakous Therapeutics, a biotech start-up in Winston-Salem, is pioneering regenerative healing from traditional stem cell therapies. Using proteins from the human placenta, the company is developing medicine to combat necrotizing enterocolitis, also known as NEC. NEC is a condition that affects premature babies weighing less than three pounds and between 22 to 33 weeks of age. Rob Boyce, CEO of Plakous Therapeutics, joins us to discuss product development and his career path from naval aviation and marketing to biotech.
In 2017, Toni Truno accepted the challenge to answer "... the one question no artist wants to be asked – how do you monetize that?" She founded Visual Index, a woman-owned art gallery in the downtown arts district of Winston-Salem. Formally educated as a photographer, Toni uses her photography skills to curate contemporary craft and fine art in a range of mediums, with a focus on representing "living makers" from all 50 states.
Michelle Russo made a bold business move during the pandemic — opening two franchises in two cities. She found her niche in the beauty industry, specifically in the lash extensions and brow services market. Michelle, who holds a master's degree in organizational management, joins us to discuss what makes her Deka Lash studios unique and the teams she has built at her Winston-Salem and High Point locations. "The staff is the heartbeat of the business — if they're not fabulous, we're not fabulous."
Natalie Sahloff views life through art. She grew up in a creative household with artistic parents, had a camera in her hand since she was 12, and had an entrepreneurial spirit at an even younger age. "Everything's creative. Even down to the way we communicate. The words we use, how we talk. It's all a picture." As the founder of Winston-Salem-based Sail Off Photography, Natalie is a published photographer utilizing the camera as her paintbrush to capture and create bold, vibrant, and timeless compositions.
Andrew Florence, Director of Experiential Learning, and Holly Kessler, Senior Director of Communications at Crossnore Communities for Children, join us to share the impact the organization has made in Winston-Salem and throughout North Carolina for more than 100 years. A recognized leader in helping children who have experienced abuse or other trauma, their holistic model of care allows them to care for and nurture each child’s mind, body, and spirit and reclaim, rebuild, and reimagine the essential belief in a safe, dependable home. Miracle Heights Adventures, located on the Crossnore campus, engages groups in experiential learning activities that embody the spirit of adventure, build resilience, and empower collective success. The 33-element aerial adventure park includes a 600-foot zip line and a one-of-a-kind Aerial Teams Course.
NC Fusion is a nonprofit youth sports organization that runs several programs – from soccer and lacrosse to field hockey and football. Its mission is to create intentional experiences through sport that positively impact families for life. NC Fusion's CEO Scott Wollaston and Chief Experience Officer Sarah Bridges join us to share the club's core values and how, through their foundation, they provide access to communities that lack access to sport with organized groups or in their schools. They also share the economic impact NC Fusion has on the Forsyth and Guilford Counties, with two top-level facilities in the Southeast hosting tournaments and events nearly every weekend of the year – from Ultimate Frisbee and the Triad Cup to NCAA and ACC games.
Jamie Southern has always loved being surrounded by books. As Executive Director of Bookmarks, a literary arts nonprofit in Winston-Salem launched in 2004, she loves introducing people to new authors and new worlds. Bookmarks has become a community connector through its independent bookstore, year-round events, and outreach programs. This year Bookmarks will host its 17th Annual Festival of Books and Authors. The event will have exciting activities for kids and adults and bring incredible authors, songwriters, and Tony and Grammy award-winners to the community.
President of the Winston-Salem Dash Brian DeAngelis and the Dash's Marketing and Social Media Coordinator Amanda Weaver join us and share some surprising history about our hometown team, upcoming community-focused events like 336 Day, an exciting new partnership with Marvel, and sports careers beyond the baseball diamond.
After receiving degrees in both home furnishings marketing and interior design and traveling the world with renowned companies, including Natuzzi, Cassandra Brunson launched an immersive design experience that offers more than most studios. As President and Principal Designer of Design+ by CassandraMichelle, she makes dreams of safe, functional, and beautiful spaces a reality. Located in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem and a short drive from the furniture capital of the world, Design+ by CassandraMichelle offers a hi-tech digital studio for an HGTV experience featuring 3D renderings and animation. With access to hundreds of vendors, the design team works from start to finish on commercial and residential projects – from furnishings and interiors to architecture.
After years of dealing with plantar fascitis and expensive foam orthotics that just didn't work, Mike Schmid, founder and CEO of inStryde, had an idea. Leveraging his experience in aerospace engineering, AI, and advanced 3D printing, he created his first custom foot orthotic. Working together with aerospace engineers, podiatrists, software developers, and athletes, inStryde is "super powering human movement" by making medical-grade foot orthotics more affordable, accessible, and better fitting for everyone.
No junk, just juice. That's the guiding principle and motto of The Jugo Bar. William Fulton, the owner of the Winston-Salem-based company, spent years traveling the world – from Marrakesh, Casablanca, and along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to the South of France and Italy. Those experiences intensified his interest in flavor profiles and using fruits and veggies without preservatives to create nutritious juice. Starting with one flavor when the company launched, The Jugo Bar currently offers 43 varieties in markets from Winston-Salem to Charlotte – including the menu of the luxurious Ballantyne Hotel.
Nitika Wallace's flare for fashion began at an early age. From creating looks for her dolls and watching fashion shows on television to being mesmerized by her aunts, grandmothers, and church members in their flamboyant hats and how they carried themselves. She later gained experience in the fashion industry in New York City by styling for many designers, actors, and celebrities. After returning to Winston-Salem, Nikita created Winston-Salem Fashion Week in 2015 to allow aspiring local artists to share their creativity, expand their brands, and live their dreams without leaving the city.
Moving to a new city is always an adventure. Navigating all of the go-to places makes the journey even better. When Christy Bellis and her husband moved to Winston-Salem, she knew little about the city and began exploring – sharing her discoveries on social media. From the best places to eat and things to do for kids and families to wedding venues and where to get the best margarita, Christy fell in love with the area. Two years and tens of thousands of loyal followers later, The Go-To Winston Salem is a popular resource for locals, newcomers, and visitors.
Dr. Anna Nichols had a dream job working in her chosen field at a large hospital. After 10 years, she decided to continue doing what she loves by opening a private practice. Within 30 days of making that decision, she made it official and opened Nichols Hearing & Audiology in Winston-Salem. "Hear well, live well" is the guiding principle of the practice. Their approach is to offer personalized care to those having trouble communicating and to help keep them independent using the latest technology and advances in audiology.
When Victoria Manginas took a semester off from law school, traveling from Canada to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to help with the family business, she soon realized that being a restauranteur was in her blood. After her father passed away in 2018, Victoria traded in law school for 15- to 20-hour days at Zito! Pizzeria & Grill in Winston-Salem. At the time, this 20-year-old continued her father's legacy by taking the reins of the business and reimagining what it could be. Sourcing organic flour and ingredients for its dough and recipes, the restaurant offers a dedicated vegan menu and traditional Greek cuisine.
"All the stars aligned" for BEAM Dynamics Co-Founder and CEO David Kaszycki when deciding to bring the startup to Winston-Salem during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The award-winning company has received numerous accolades, including the PILOT Innovation Award from the National Association of Broadcasters and funding from NC Idea and the WSPR Fund. BEAM helps film and broadcast productions manage, maintain, and grow their technology infrastructure with access to a rich set of critical data to keep projects on air, on time, and on budget.
At the age of 16, with 8-track tapes of James Brown, BB King, and Aretha Franklin in hand, Bill McClain fell in love with the idea of becoming a deejay. Spinning tracks on the ones and twos at events throughout high school and college, his passion for the industry grew. Fast forward, Mr. Bill's Productions has been in business in Winston-Salem for over 30 years, providing entertainment for events from small backyard BBQs and family reunions to weddings, corporate events, and stadium concerts.
After handing over the day-to-day operations of a thriving business to take a much-needed break, Shanna Howard discovered that balance, for herself and others, would be the next step of her entrepreneurial journey. In the heart of Buena Vista in Winston-Salem, Shanna launched The Boho Depot – a Bohemian-lifestyle and home goods store that provides curated items for an inspired and adventure-filled life and home.
Sparked by a need for her kids to have summer activities to keep them happy and healthy, Crazy Running founder Robyn McElwee drew from her creativity and track and field background to design games for all kids to have fun. From there the first official program was run at Hanes Park in Winston-Salem during the summer of 2009.
Since 2005, president and co-owner Jamie Bartholomaus and the team at Foothills Brewing have made and sold craft beer to Winston-Salem residents and visitors, and around the southeast. Today, in addition to two breweries, they also roast their own coffee – responsibly sourcing the world’s top beans from three continents to provide our customers with the finest tasting coffee produced in the Carolinas.
A Pitch Over Pizza event at the Center for Entrepreneurship at Wake Forest in Winston-Salem propelled Leah Wyrick, founder and CEO of Three Strands Recovery Wear, on her entrepreneurial journey. She launched the company in 2018 after seeing first-hand the complications her mother endured after a mastectomy. Leah became inspired to help others that may have a similar experience due to the lack of advancements in today’s surgical bras.