Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast

John Myers of Alliance Family Services joins Jim to talk candidly about faith, church hurt, and the hard conversations around abortion and real-world ministry.

They dive into John’s journey from missionary kid to youth pastor to working with Alliance Women’s Clinic, why honesty and trust matter more than polished church branding, and how men must step up in the pro‑life conversation. Jim shares deeply personal stories about grief, divine nudges, and what it really means to hear from God in everyday life.

If you or someone you know is facing an unplanned pregna...

Jim McCarthy sits down with Babcox Media’s Brian Ankney to talk about how a 106-year-old automotive media company keeps reinventing itself with video, AI search, and niche-focused content. They dive into the real future of car dealerships, F&I, EVs, and what “good” selling actually looks like in 2026.

If you’re in automotive, real estate, or any small business that lives on leads and relationships, this episode is loaded with practical perspective and stories from the trenches.

Highlights
00:00 Sales vs “being pushy”: reframing what selling really is
03:30 E-bikes, safety, and 50-year-old-gu...

Phillip Cantrell went from running a family printing business to building Benchmark Realty into a multi-state brokerage closing over $5 billion a year in sales. In this episode, we talk about pivots, faith, hard times, and why real estate is facing its own “2008 moment” with AI and industry lawsuits.

Phillip shares what he learned from brutal commercial printing, how he rebuilt during the 2008 crash, why he sold Benchmark, and what agents and business owners must do to survive the next wave of change. If you’re an entrepreneur, real estate pro, or anyone grinding through a tough season...

On this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, Jim McCarthy sits down with longtime Middle Tennessee realtor and 615 Podcast host, Nick Woodard. They dig into what it really takes to stand out in a crowded real estate market, how authenticity online can quietly build a powerful client pipeline, and why Middle Tennessee keeps attracting families from all over the country.

Nick shares stories from 22 years in real estate, from viral influencer-parody videos that accidentally drove new business, to ethical nightmares with other agents, to helping out-of-state clients find not just a house, but a whole...

In this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim McCarthy sits down with Greg Oliver and Abigail Garrett of GOA Speakers to unpack the business of booking faith-based speakers, comedians, and artists.

Greg shares how he went from running a massive Christian nightclub in Texas to building a Nashville-based agency that represents some of the biggest names in Christian speaking and leadership, including John Maxwell, Lisa TerKeurst, Scott Hamilton, Lee Strobel, and Willie Robertson. Abigail walks through how GOA leverages social media, email marketing, and content to champion their speakers and grow demand.<...

Jim sits down with legendary live-event entrepreneur Scott Scovill to unpack how a kid who flunked out of college, battled crippling fear of failure, and waited tables at Howard Johnson’s ended up pioneering concert video, touring with the biggest acts in the world, and building Moo TV.

Scott shares the true origin story behind his career, the life-changing U2 moment that set everything in motion, the loss of his mentor that pushed him into entrepreneurship, and why he wrote a self-help book for people who hate being told what to do.

If yo...

In this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, Jim McCarthy sits down with mediator and veteran civil litigator Tamara Gauldin to explore what it really means to stay neutral in a polarized world. They discuss mediation, control, apologies, faith, parenting, and how our idea of “good” is often a matter of perspective.

Tamara shares how she left corporate America to start her own mediation practice, why she’s more open-minded now than ever, and what she’s learned watching people fight over everything from legal disputes to kids’ toys.

Timed Highlights:
0:00 Le...

From classic trucks and exotics to private car clubs and social lounges, this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast dives into the story behind 111 Motorcars in Franklin, TN. Host Jim McCarthy sits down with executive assistant and car enthusiast Taylor Qualls to unpack how 111 is blending high-end automotive storage, sales, service, hospitality, and private membership into a “Four Seasons of the automotive world” experience.  

Taylor shares how growing up around tools, construction, and cars led her into this unique role, how competitive golf shaped her mindset, and why Middle Tennessee has become a new...

Executive coach, author, and lifelong entrepreneur Marc A. Wolfe joins Jim McCarthy to break down the “Yeah, but…” excuses that keep leaders and business owners stuck. From college vs. alternative paths, intrapreneurship vs. entrepreneurship, and failing forward, to fake gurus, AI, and the power of being a “certified human,” Marc shares straight‑talk insights on creating real options in your career and business—without pretending everything’s perfect.

Key Highlights
The “Yeah, but…” trap – The three most common excuses Marc hears (“no time,” “what if I fail,” “what will people think?”) and how to reframe them.

College vs. outcomes – Why nobo...

Entrepreneur Ander Sevilla, founder of Black Light, joins host Jim McCarthy to share how he went from selling duct tape wallets in 4th grade to building a fast-growing marketing and private equity hybrid based in Nashville. Ander talks about losing everything (twice), moving cross‑country to start over, turning an Antioch house into an incubator, and raising capital to scale Black Light into multiple markets.

They dive into:

Why he left law school plans for entrepreneurship

How Black Light takes equity stakes in businesses instead of just fe...

In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, Jim McCarthy talks with Rob Steier about his unconventional journey from pulling cable in his dad’s Wisconsin security business to firefighting, exotic car brokerage, and now commercial real estate and private equity.

Rob shares the freeway accident that pushed him into firefighting, what he learned serving as an EMT, and how he parlayed trust with high-net-worth clients into brokering ultra-rare Ferraris and other supercars. Jim and Rob also dive into dealership culture, Nashville’s booming luxury car scene, and how being a connector can unlock million-square-foot real...

In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, Jim McCarthy talks with Jarod Goenner from USA TODAY / USA TODAY Network about how AI, personal branding, and digital marketing are changing the game for local businesses.

They cover Jarod’s journey from Navy nuclear reactor operator to media and marketing, how legacy newspapers are adapting to digital and AI, and what actually works now for home services, dealerships, and local pros trying to grow.

You’ll hear real talk on:

Why no one truly has AI “figure...

In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim McCarthy sits back down with Jim Morris—speaker, entrepreneur, and co-owner of Music City Work Club—for an honest conversation about what entrepreneurship really looks like behind the social media veneer. They dig into how vulnerability can be powerful and dangerous, why discernment about who you open up to matters, and how contracts, expectations, and culture shape business relationships. They also talk about loneliness in fast-growing towns, comparison on social media, and Jim’s vision for a work-and-wellness community where entrepreneurs and creators can actually belong. Along the wa...

In this dynamic episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, Matt Rogers, announcer and entrepreneur, joins us for an unfiltered conversation spanning from the locker rooms of the Tennessee Titans to the electric world of Live Golf and the realities of running a business in Middle Tennessee.

Matt shares hard-won lessons about the importance of being authentic—both in business and behind the microphone. Hear how deeply local connections, a willingness to help others, and a little audacity led him from auditioning at Chick-fil-A to energizing crowds at Nissan Stadium. We also dig in...

In this inspiring episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with licensed psychotherapist and mindset mentor Dilyse Diaz for a deep dive into the power of positive thinking, resilience, and intentional living. Dilyse shares her compelling journey from a challenging upbringing in California to building a thriving practice and wellness retreat in Tennessee. Together, they explore strategies for pausing and pivoting during adversity, harnessing the law of attraction, and cultivating gratitude and mindfulness for long-term success in life and business.

Highlights include:
How to pause, pivot, and choose purposeful responses when...

Join us for a compelling episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, featuring local realtor and entrepreneur Art Kelly of Realty One Group. Art and host Jim dive deep into how genuine relationships and authenticity are the bedrock of success in Middle Tennessee’s ever-evolving business landscape.

Key highlights include:
Art’s candid business journey: from various odd jobs to thriving in real estate.

How the pandemic forever changed the Middle Tennessee housing market—and how both buyers and agents have adapted.

Sage advice for business owners and sales professionals on nurtur...

Teaching, Trades & College Myths w/ Greg Svihlik :: Ep 267 Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast

Podcast Title: "Teaching, Trades & College Myths"

What happens when a veteran Middle Tennessee teacher gets brutally honest about grades, test scores, college, and what kids actually need to succeed? In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with Williamson County educator Greg Svihlik for a raw, wide‑ranging conversation on modern education—and why it matters to parents, business owners, and the next generation of workers.

Gr...

What can a career that spans space‑shuttle electronics, cell towers, and corporate hypergrowth teach us about small business, culture, and entrepreneurship in Middle Tennessee? In this wide-ranging episode, host Jim sits down with business coach Craig Whipperman of Music City ActionCOACH for a candid conversation on how businesses grow, break, and reinvent themselves—and what that means for everyday owners and solopreneurs.

Together, they trace Craig’s unconventional path from engineering and accounting to auditing NASA contractors, then into the exploding wireless and cell tower industry, where he helped Crown Castle grow from hundreds to thousands of tow...

Podcast Episode Title: "A Human Touch in Music”

Show Description: How is artificial intelligence changing the face of songwriting—and what does it mean for artists, songwriters, and music fans across Middle Tennessee and beyond? In this thought-provoking episode, host Jim sits down with acclaimed songwriter Regie Hamm for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on the rapid evolution of the music business.

Together, they explore the difference between a “hit” song and a “great” song, how AI models like Suno are disrupting the industry, and why authenticity and imperfection still matter. The episode dives into the challeng...

Podcast Episode Title: 
“Navigating the Shifting Landscape w/ Tessa Tubbs”

Show Description: 
In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host and guests gather at the Tremont Mansion during TEDx Old Hickory for an insightful conversation with leadership expert Tessa Tubbs. Explore the life transitions from snowy New York to Dallas, shifting generational values in the workplace, and what it takes to lead (and follow) in an era defined by change and technology. Tessa shares her personal journey, leadership philosophy, and practical tips on developing self-awareness and adaptability. 

Episode Highlights:
The imp...

Podcast Episode Title: "Pinning Down Success"

Show Description: In this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with Michael Hatcher, a dynamic entrepreneur who seamlessly blends his passion for wrestling with a thriving custom apparel business. Michael shares his unique journey from collegiate wrestler to wrestling coach and business owner, revealing how his experiences on the mat have shaped his approach to life and entrepreneurship.

Episode Highlights:

From Iowa Wrestling Mat to Tennessee Business Owner

Podcast Episode Title: 
From Exotic Cars to Canines w/ Ali Hemyari

Show Description:
In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, the host dives into an inspiring conversation with Ali Hemyari—a dynamic entrepreneur, pilot, police officer, author, and founder of Nashville K-9, one of the nation’s largest dog training facilities. Ali shares his unique path from building an exotic car brokerage as a college student to scaling businesses organically based on market needs.

Episode highlights:
Ali’s early ventures in high-end car brokerage and advertising while still in college...

Join us on this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast as we sit down with Irenka—musician, entrepreneur, and creator of Allegra, an intuitive CRM solution designed specifically for small business owners. Discover how a leap of faith from Europe to Nashville and an independent music career led to a unique approach to technology, automation, and business relationships.

Highlights:
Irenka’s multicultural background and her unconventional journey into the business world

The challenge of building a user-friendly CRM in a market dominated by tech giants

Why small businesses struggle with trad...

Podcast Episode Title:

"Customer Loyalty"

Show Description:

In this compelling episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jason Miller sits down with Howard Morgan, a seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist, to explore the secrets of building successful businesses. Howard shares his extensive experience from founding multiple companies and consulting with major corporations like American Express. 

Highlights:

The critical importance of customer satisfaction and loyalty

Strategies for developing and retaining top talent

Podcast Episode Title:

"Neighborhood Navigator"

Show Description:

In this engaging episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, local realtor Matt Bogosian shares his innovative approach to real estate marketing through social media and video content. 

Highlights:

Strategies for building a personal brand in real estate

Insights into Thompson's Station's growth and development

The power of niche marketing and local content creation

Navigating social media c...

Podcast Episode Title:

"Reputation and Recognition"

Show Description:

In this engaging episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim talks with Beth Polish, a seasoned tech entrepreneur and innovator. Beth shares her fascinating journey from anthropology to technology, discussing her passion for building collaborative networks, the importance of meaningful recognition, and navigating the rapidly evolving world of AI and digital reputation.

Highlights:

Beth's career trajectory from Dun & Bradstreet to founding tech companies

Insights...

Podcast Episode Title:

"Pedaling Progress"

Show Description:

Join host Matt Wilson as he sits down with Vinny Tavares, owner of Mule Town Bikes in Columbia, Tennessee. Discover how this Brazilian-born bike enthusiast transformed a local bike shop, embraced the e-bike trend, and is building community through cycling. 

Highlights:

Vinny's journey from mountain bike racing in Brazil to owning a bike shop in Middle Tennessee

The rising popularity of e-bikes and their potential t...

Podcast Episode Title: 
"From Paintbrushes to Podcasts w/ CW Meekins" 

Show Description: 
Join host Jim McCarthy as he sits down with Carl Wayne (CW) Meekins, a multi-talented entrepreneur who's mastered the art of remodeling, music, and maintaining a positive mindset. In this candid conversation, CW shares his journey from a musician chasing the Nashville dream to a successful remodeling business owner, discussing: 

Navigating entrepreneurial challenges with resilience

The importance of falling forward and learning from failures

Insights into sales, marketing, and building a unique brand

Balancing music, busi...

"Hammering Out Success"

Show Description:

In this compelling episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, Hilson Merrill of Merrill Construction Group shares his inspiring journey from a hands-on carpenter to a successful business owner. Discover how he transformed challenges into opportunities, learned the art of sales, and built a thriving construction company in Nashville's rapidly evolving landscape.

Highlights:

Navigating the construction industry's challenges as a small contractor

The importance of communication and customer experience in business<...

Podcast Episode Title:
"Radio Reinvented w/ Ron Allen"

Show Description with Highlights:
In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim McCarthy sits down with Ron Allen, veteran broadcaster and leader at Midwest Communications (Jack FM, Y’all 106.7). Together, they dive deep into the ever-evolving world of radio, exploring how AI is transforming the industry, the enduring power of local radio, and the challenges and opportunities facing today’s broadcasters.

Highlights include:

The rise of AI voices and what it means for on-air talent and authenticity

The...

Podcast Episode Title:
“Innovating with Plastic Parts w/ Joe Paonessa”

Show Description with Highlights:
In this episode of The Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with Joe Paonessa, owner of Edgecroft, to explore the fascinating world of plastics manufacturing and entrepreneurship. Joe shares his journey from Canada to Tennessee, detailing how he built a thriving business that manufactures and fulfills products for major brands like Squatty Potty.

Highlights include:
The real story behind “Made in the USA” labeling and the complexities of global supply chains.

Joe’s evolution...

Podcast Episode Title:
"Sax, Stages, and Stories w/ Steve Nieves"

Show Description:
Join host Jim as he sits down with saxophonist Steve Nieves, exploring his remarkable musical career spanning decades. Discover how Steve transitioned from local bands to touring with legendary artists like Jimmy Messina, navigating the music industry with dedication and joy. 

Highlights include:

Steve's musical beginnings in San Diego

Insights into professional music performance

Transitioning to Nashville during the pandemic

The importance of band chemistry and positive culture

Personal faith and a...

Podcast Episode Title:
"Feeding Hope w/ Frank and Sasa Georgalos"

Show Description:
Join host Jim as he sits down with Frank and Sasa Georgalos, owners of Grecian Family Restaurant and Bakery in Spring Hill, Tennessee. Discover how this Greek-American couple has become a beloved community cornerstone through their authentic cuisine, incredible Thanksgiving meal program, and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Hear their inspiring journey from New York to Florida to Tennessee, their passion for scratch-made food, and how they've built a restaurant that's so much more than just a place to eat. Learn...

Show Description:

In this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host Jim sits down with professional bass player Luis Espaillat for an engaging conversation about music, technology, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. Luis shares insights into his musical journey, the challenges of being a session musician in Nashville, and his perspectives on emerging technologies like AI. 

Episode Highlights:

Luis's musical origins and transition to becoming a professional bass player

The importance of listening and collaboration in music

Podcast Episode Title:

"A Journey of Authenticity w/ Darryll Stinson"

Show Description:

In this powerful episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host sits down with Darryll Stinson, a transformative speaker who overcame significant personal challenges to become a leading voice in communication and leadership. 

Highlights include:

Darryll's remarkable journey from struggling athlete to inspirational speaker

Overcoming identity struggles, sports injuries, and mental health challenges

The true meaning of v...

Podcast Episode Title:

"Voiceover, Music, and Mindset"

Show Description:

Join host Jim and special guest Rob Ricotta as they dive deep into the world of entertainment, discussing the evolving landscape of music, voice acting, and creative entrepreneurship. Hear Rob's insights on navigating the music industry, the importance of adaptability, and his experiences as a drummer and voice actor. 

Highlights:

Rob's musical beginnings in small-town North Carolina

The art of producing yourself in voice acting

Podcast Episode Title:

"Opening Doors After Shark Tank"

Show Description:

Join host Jim McCarthy as he sits down with Clay Banks, co-founder of Haven Lock, to dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship. Discover the behind-the-scenes story of their Shark Tank experience, the challenges of launching a home security product, and valuable insights for aspiring business owners. 

Highlights include:

The nine-month process of preparing for Shark Tank

Lessons learned from pitching a high-value security product

Podcast Title: 

"Healing, Humor, and Hustle"

Show Description:

In this engaging episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, host sits down with Alex Phillips, founder of Amplify Health and Performance. Alex shares her candid journey from a small West Tennessee town to becoming a physical therapy entrepreneur in Nashville. Highlights include:

Navigating the challenges of in-network vs. out-of-network physical therapy

Building a unique business model that prioritizes personalized client care

Insights into social media m...

Podcast Episode Title:

"Anchoring Success"

Show Description:

Join host Jim McCarthy as he sits down with John Sinky and JC Henry from Anchor Roofing to explore the ins and outs of the roofing industry in Middle Tennessee. Discover how this local business navigates insurance claims, builds customer trust, and grows strategically while maintaining a family-oriented culture. Highlights include innovative marketing strategies, the challenges of seasonal roofing work, and insights into turning a small business into a community-trusted brand. Learn how Anchor Roofing goes beyond just fixing roofs to creating lasting...

Podcast Episode Title:

"College Student to Entrepreneur"

Show Description:

In this exciting episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, 24-year-old entrepreneur Dan DeGiulio shares his inspiring journey of building Junk Remedy, a thriving junk removal business in Nashville. 

Highlights:

How a family business inspired his entrepreneurial path

Overcoming challenges as a young business owner

Innovative social media strategies for small businesses

Future plans to e...