FXBG Neighbors Podcast

Stepping into the world of wellness with authenticity and purpose, Jennifer Craig-Ford shares the compelling story behind Kül Contour Studio, a med spa nestled in the growing Spotsylvania Courthouse area. Her journey from California lawyer to Virginia wellness entrepreneur reveals how personal health challenges became the catalyst for a business focused on honest, supportive approaches to body contouring and self-care.

Jennifer's candid discussion about her own struggles with fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis, and weight management in her 50s provides the emotional backbone to her business philosophy. Having experienced firsthand how conventional approaches to health can fail women, p...

What happens when a philosophy major picks up a saw for the first time after college? For Nick Covert, it sparked a passion that grew into Dream Builders, a thriving 19-year business specializing in custom decks, screened porches, and sunrooms throughout Fredericksburg.

Nick's unexpected journey from academic to entrepreneur forms the heart of this engaging conversation. Unlike many in his field who grew up with tools in hand, Nick discovered construction after completing his degree, finding immediate satisfaction in creating tangible structures and watching projects take shape daily. This fresh perspective gives Dream Builders its distinctive approach...

Tired of sifting through piles of unqualified resumes? Meet Kirstin Purcell, founder of Handshake in Heels, who's revolutionizing how businesses approach talent acquisition in Fredericksburg and beyond.

Kirstin joins the Fredericksburg Neighbors Podcast to shatter the biggest myth in recruiting: that posting a job online is enough to attract quality candidates. "The best candidates aren't actively looking—they're being pursued," she explains, highlighting why strategic recruiting requires much more than a well-written job advertisement. As a talent consultant rather than just a recruiter, Kirstin helps businesses build teams that align with their mission, culture, and long-term vision.

Artistic passion meets professional integrity in this fascinating conversation with Cat Johnson, owner of Dark Horse Tattoos in Fredericksburg. With over 20 years of experience tattooing and 17 years running her own studio, Cat takes us behind the scenes of an industry often shrouded in misconceptions.

The journey begins with an unexpected spark of inspiration—an HBO movie watched by an 11-year-old Cat that featured a full-body tattoo that captivated her imagination. That moment of fascination developed into a lifelong passion and eventually a thriving business that has earned its reputation "one client at a time."

Cat ex...

Mark Perry never imagined his journey would lead from military aviation to craft beer innovation, yet his Red Dragon Brewery has become a cornerstone of Fredericksburg's evolving cultural landscape. When Virginia changed its brewing laws in the early 2010s, Perry saw an opportunity not just for business, but to give something back to his hometown. Alongside partners with deep local connections, he transformed a warehouse into what would eventually become one of the nation's top-ranked craft breweries.

What distinguishes Red Dragon isn't just its location or atmosphere, but its pioneering approach to craft beer. Under brewer Cody...

Buying a home shouldn't feel like deciphering an ancient language, yet terms like "amortization," "debt-to-income ratio," and "loan-to-value" often leave potential buyers feeling overwhelmed and underprepared. That's exactly why Julie Birt from Mortgage Network Solutions is stepping in with a solution for the Fredericksburg community.

Julie joins us to announce her upcoming Mortgage 101 seminar at the Fredericksburg Library on August 9th at 10am. This free event promises to strip away the confusion surrounding the homebuying process. As Julie explains, the rising housing market makes informed preparation more crucial than ever for first-time buyers. Understanding who does what—fr...

Ever wondered what it takes to build a brand that truly stands out? Marie Linne von Berg, owner of Stratifi Creative, pulls back the curtain on effective brand building and website development in this engaging conversation.

Marie shares her unexpected path to entrepreneurship after graduating from VCU with degrees in creative and strategic advertising. When faced with a job offer that would relegate her passion to a "side responsibility," she boldly declined—unknowingly setting herself on the path to founding a thriving marketing agency. What started as a simple contract agreement blossomed into Stratifi Creative, now a si...

What happens when personal crisis meets entrepreneurial spirit? For Sha’ahn Williams, the answer was Body Thief Body Sculpting – a haven for non-invasive transformation that's changing lives across Northern Virginia.

Founded in a spare bedroom during the height of COVID while navigating an unexpected divorce, Body Thief emerged from Williams' recognition that marginalized communities – including stay-at-home mothers, older women, and LGBTQ+ individuals – lacked safe, judgment-free options for body transformation. Drawing on her expertise as a master aesthetics instructor, she developed proprietary techniques including the "Hayes Freeman method" and her signature "Three Strikes" treatment, which combines three different modaliti...

Ever been handed a diet plan by your doctor with no real guidance on how to follow it? Chelsea John knew this frustrating gap all too well from her healthcare background, which is why she created Clean Eatz Fredericksburg. 

Chelsea joins us to reveal how her thriving business serves as the crucial missing link between medical advice and practical implementation. Her passion for helping others achieve their health goals shines through as she explains the Clean Eatz concept: perfectly portioned, macro-balanced meals that take the guesswork out of nutrition. "Everything is weighed out," Chelsea explains, "so it's p...

Downsizing a lifetime of memories isn't just about moving furniture—it's an emotional journey filled with tough decisions. Alan Sack, owner of Caring Transitions of Fredericksburg, brings clarity and compassion to this process, sharing how his personal experience helping his distant parents downsize sparked his entrepreneurial journey.

Alan pulls back the curtain on one of the biggest misconceptions families face: the true value of cherished possessions. Those dining room tables and china cabinets that were once forbidden territory for small children? They rarely command the prices families expect in today's market. With refreshing honesty, Alan explains how th...

Ever wonder if there's an alternative to costly roof replacement? Nick Roberge of Roof Maxx reveals a game-changing approach that's saving homeowners thousands while extending roof life by 5+ years.

Drawing from his 20-year background in Marine Corps aircraft maintenance, Nick explains how the same preventative maintenance principles apply to your home's most important protective barrier. The revolutionary process uses a soybean-based oil treatment that restores flexibility to brittle asphalt shingles – much like hand lotion revitalizes dry skin. At roughly 20% the cost of roof replacement, this solution addresses both financial and environmental concerns.

The conversation debunks co...

Step into the warm, welcoming world of Hair Revival with founder Cassandra Matus, whose 24-year journey through the hair industry has culminated in a boutique salon experience that's changing how clients view professional stylists.

Cassandra takes us behind the scenes of her four-chair studio, explaining why the intimate setting creates a calming environment where guests can truly relax. "It's very chill," she shares, differentiated from the chaotic energy of larger salons. With specialties in custom color blonding and their own hybrid weft extension line, Hair Revival combines technical expertise with personalized attention.

The conversation dives...

What happens when a mother's attempt to stay connected with her child during travel transforms into a beloved children's book series? Meet Mora Soan, a local legend in the Fredericksburg area who turned a small traveling gnome into the star of captivating stories that teach children about kindness, respect, and courage.

During our conversation, Mora reveals how a 2019 trip to Cambodia after 37 years away from her homeland became the unexpected catalyst for her writing career. With a layover in Japan and missing her children, Mora brought along a small green gnome at her daughter's request, snapping photos...

What happens when you decide to pursue your dream career at age 50? Amanda Blalock's compelling story proves that reinvention is possible at any stage of life.

Amanda shares her remarkable journey from dabbling in real estate-adjacent roles to becoming a successful realtor and property manager with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services in Fredericksburg. "I had always dabbled in working for builders and things real estate and always had that little bug and interest," she reveals, "but it wasn't until my life sort of took a turn... that I decided it was now or never." Her message resonates powerfully: "...

Andrew Montgomery's journey into electrical work began with a newspaper classified ad in 2013. Though his first position was short-lived, it sparked a passion that would eventually lead him to establish Upstate Electric, a residential electrical contracting business serving the Fredericksburg area. "I'm very fortunate right now to be doing something that I'm so passionate about," Andrew shares, reflecting on the rewarding nature of his chosen trade.

Behind Andrew's dedication to electrical safety lies a deeply personal motivation. As a child, his family home was destroyed by an electrical fire, a traumatic experience that taught him resilience and...

Have you ever wondered about those elegant horse-drawn carriages that transport wedding parties and tourists through historic Fredericksburg? Christine Kovacs, owner of Olde Towne Carriages, pulls back the curtain on this charming yet demanding business in our latest episode.

Christine reveals how her lifelong equestrian passion evolved into a unique carriage service that does far more than simple tours. From romantic anniversary rides through Fredericksburg's most beautiful streets to elaborate South Asian Baraat wedding processions - where grooms arrive on white horses amid drums and celebration - her business preserves traditions while creating magical moments. What started...

Ever wondered how personal challenges can transform into meaningful business ventures? Andie Ayers' journey from elementary school teacher to bookstore owner will inspire you to find purpose in your own struggles.

Andie's story begins with founding the Fairy Godmother Project, supporting families of children with cancer. After stepping away as executive director, she faced her own breast cancer diagnosis, which shifted her perspective on how people connect during difficult times. This experience sparked the creation of Novel, a bookstore that goes beyond selling books to build genuine community connections.

Novel isn't just a place to...

Natural hair gets the spotlight in this illuminating conversation with Marie Williams, founder of Insure Beauty salon in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Marie shares her journey from a biracial child experimenting with hair techniques on dolls to a successful entrepreneur creating a sanctuary for chemical-free hair care. Her story resonates with authenticity as she describes feeling voiceless in the beauty world growing up, which ultimately fueled her passion for creating inclusive spaces.

What makes Insure Beauty stand out is its holistic approach to beauty. Marie eloquently explains how the pandemic revealed a deeper truth about hair care – it's not ju...

From scratch-made bagels to a secret speakeasy with family roots dating back to Prohibition, Galvin's Delicatessen and Rivers End Speakeasy represent a culinary adventure unlike anything else in Fredericksburg.

Meet Emma and Paul Stoddard, whose passion for authentic, handcrafted food led them to open this dual-concept establishment at 216 William Street. After nearly 18 years in the restaurant business, including co-ownership of the beloved Sunken Well Tavern, Paul brings seasoned expertise to their new venture. Emma's design sensibilities transform the historic space into something both nostalgic and fresh.

What makes Galvin's truly special? Everything – and we mean ev...

What happens when childcare ends at age 12? For most families, it creates a critical supervision gap during the most challenging years of adolescence. Meet Arline Gause, the visionary behind GAD Youth Center, who's tackling this problem head-on in Spotsylvania County.

After 22 years as a military spouse with 13 relocations, Arline witnessed firsthand how difficult transitions impact young people. Watching her children struggle with new schools, curriculum differences, and social challenges taught her the importance of creating a supportive community. "It was the village we created and surrounded them with that helped them become who and what they are...

From military service to fitness leadership, Christina Hudson's journey embodies discipline, community, and transformation. As owner of F45 Training Stafford, this 23-year Marine Corps veteran brings a revolutionary approach to fitness that extends far beyond physical results.

The F45 difference lies in its 45-minute team-based sessions combining functional movements, circuit training, and interval work in an energetic, supportive environment. Christina dismantles the common misconception that you need to "get fit first" before joining, emphasizing how every workout is scalable for both beginners and experienced athletes. "You show up and we do the rest," she explains, highlighting the...

What happens when a finance and economics graduate navigates the rocky job market of 2009-2010? For Brian Beck, it became the unexpected gateway into the world of construction that would eventually lead to founding FXBG Construction, a premier residential contractor in Fredericksburg.

Brian's journey unfolds as a masterclass in building a business with integrity. From his early days working for someone flipping houses to establishing his own construction company with his wife as partner, Brian shares how values shape business decisions. "I'd rather spend more money to have it done right the first time," he explains, revealing...

From a hammer at age twelve to owning a thriving renovation business, Chris Romero's journey exemplifies what happens when passion meets craftsmanship. As owner of Kitchens For You, Chris brings decades of hands-on experience to every kitchen and bathroom renovation in Stafford and surrounding areas.

Growing up in small-town Ohio, Chris discovered his calling early when his father, a Whirlpool retiree who took on weekend construction jobs, put tools in his hands. This early exposure blossomed through trade school, where he split his days between classrooms and building houses. His path took a unique turn when he...

The wellness journey can be challenging, especially when quality services require a long commute. Brian Lam, owner of Collage Spa, recognized this gap in Fredericksburg and created something extraordinary - a sanctuary where premium spa experiences typically found in major cities became accessible locally.

When Brian moved from New York in 2010, he brought with him not just expertise in massage and skincare, but a vision for what self-care should feel like. "There were things I enjoyed that were further away, and I felt like I could bring that here," he shares. Today, Collage Spa operates three thriving...

Ever wonder what drives someone to become a dentist? For Dr. Andrew of Embrey Mill Dental Care, it started with a childhood fear of dental visits that evolved into a genuine passion for improving people's health and confidence through exceptional oral care.

Dr. Andrew takes us behind the scenes of his thriving Stafford practice, where accessibility is a cornerstone of their philosophy. Accepting most insurance plans and offering a comprehensive range of services under one roof—from routine cleanings to advanced Invisalign treatments—Embrey Mill Dental Care has positioned itself as a true one-stop solution for families thro...

Craftsmanship meets community in this enlightening conversation with Steve Buchanan, co-founder and director of B&G Construction, one of Northern Virginia's premier remodeling companies. Steve's journey from sweeping construction site floors to managing complex residential and commercial projects reveals the authentic path of a passionate builder who combined forces with his business partner to create something extraordinary in the Fredericksburg area.

What sets true professionals apart in the construction industry? Steve candidly addresses the misconceptions many homeowners have about general contractors. He explains how proper planning—often unseen but crucial—creates the foundation for successful renovations and new...

Attorney Bennie Wall cuts through legal complexity to make estate planning accessible and understandable for everyone. Drawing from his unique journey as the first in his family to attend college, Bennie shares how his small-town roots shaped his approach to law—prioritizing clear communication over complicated legal jargon. 

A common misconception Bennie encounters is that estate planning must be intimidating or that simple beneficiary designations are sufficient. He explains how these shortcuts often lead to unintended consequences, sharing real examples where families faced complications because their loved ones hadn't developed comprehensive plans. When beneficiaries pass away before acc...

Ever wondered what it really takes to succeed in real estate beyond the glossy exterior? Kevin McGrath of Coldwell Banker Elite shatters the common misconception that realtors simply "buy sports cars at every closing" by revealing the 24/7 commitment behind the potential rewards.

Having transitioned from the building supply industry at age 40, Kevin's journey proves it's never too late to reinvent your career path. His candid account of surviving—and unexpectedly thriving—during the 2007 housing market crash delivers a powerful message about perseverance. "2008 turned out to be my best year in real estate ever," he shares, challenging listeners to r...

Julie Birt isn't just another mortgage officer—she's on a mission to transform how homebuyers experience the mortgage process in Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania. After 30+ years as a federal employee, Julie brings her lifelong passion for housing and construction to help locals navigate what's likely the biggest financial decision they'll ever make.

"When you buy a house, that's one of the biggest purchases most people will experience in their life, and it's very daunting for some," Julie explains. That's why she chose to work with Mortgage Network Solutions, a small family company that prioritizes customer education over hi...

Ever feel like insurance is just a costly necessity without real value? Patricia Grant, owner of Patricia Grant Agency Farmers Insurance, challenges this notion with warmth and wisdom in our latest conversation. 

Patricia's journey from receptionist at Chubb Insurance Company to agency owner spans decades of industry experience. What began as curiosity blossomed into genuine passion as she moved from the carrier side to running her own agency. Her expertise covers an impressive range - from home and auto insurance to business protection, recreational vehicles, and life insurance policies.

The conversation tackles common insurance myths h...

Ever wondered what happens when military precision meets artistic vision in the world of beauty? Meet Aubry, the former Army nurse who now transforms lives through her boutique medical spa, Thistle Medical Aesthetics.

Nestled in Stafford, Virginia, Thistle isn't your typical medical spa. Drawing from her unique background—caring for wounded soldiers at Walter Reed before studying at the Art Institute of Portland—Aubry has created something truly special: a warm, welcoming space where aesthetic treatments are both science and art.

"You're still you, but better" isn't just a catchy phrase at Thistle; it's their guid...

Creativity meets community at Corgi Clay Art Center, where ceramics transcends mere hobby status to become a transformative artistic journey. Founder Debra Balestreri brings over thirty years of artistic experience and formal training (BA and MFA in ceramics) to this Northern Stafford studio that's quickly becoming a cultural cornerstone.

What began as Debra's response to a creative void in Stafford has blossomed into a multifaceted haven offering classes, workshops, gallery space, and artist residencies. The name—a charming nod to her lifelong love of Welsh Corgis—occasionally confuses first-time visitors expecting a pet shop, providing Debra with the...

Step into the vibrant world of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine as we sit down with Will and Maria Negron, the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind Hit the Spot Kitchen in Fredericksburg. Their story goes far beyond typical restaurant ownership—they're self-proclaimed "food alchemists" transforming everyday ingredients into memorable culinary experiences through their takeout kitchen, food truck, catering services, and private chef experiences.

The Negrons share how their business emerged from recognizing the growing Puerto Rican community in Fredericksburg had no authentic food options, especially following Hurricane Maria's displacement impact. Their mission became clear: introduce the rich Afro-Caribbean flavors of...

Ever handed over thousands of dollars to a contractor only to be ghosted? You're not alone. Shane Heath, owner of Battlefield Decks and Patios, joins us to pull back the curtain on what he calls the "wild west" of contracting. "It blows me away sometimes that people will just hand over a check for thousands of dollars to somebody they've done zero research on," Shane reveals, sharing horror stories of abandoned projects and desperate homeowners.

With generations of carpentry expertise flowing through his veins, Shane builds stunning outdoor living spaces throughout Northern Virginia—from elaborate decks and pa...

Discover the transformative power of golf through the eyes of Horace Crenshaw, a retired military officer who found his calling as a premier golf instructor. As owner of Crenshaw's Sports and Fitness, Horace brings a unique mobile approach to golf instruction throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, meeting students where they're comfortable rather than requiring them to visit traditional courses.

What makes Horace's approach special isn't just his technical expertise—it's his profound understanding that golf teaches lessons far beyond the course. "When you come for a golf lesson, you're not just going to receive a go...

Mud boots, not stilettos. Community, not transactions. Meet Ginger Walker, whose journey into real estate defied convention from the start.

When the 2008 housing market crashed, most aspiring agents ran for cover. Ginger saw an opportunity to learn the business from the ground up during the toughest economic climate imaginable. Fast-forward to today, and that foundation has created the Give Back Team at Coldwell Banker Elite - an all-female real estate group serving Fredericksburg and Stafford with a refreshingly different approach.

"It's not transactional for us, it's a relationship," Ginger explains, challenging popular misconceptions cultivated by...

Ever wondered why the hundreds of photos on your phone never make it to your walls? Carline Bon-Ami has the answer—and a solution that transforms fleeting digital moments into treasured family heirlooms. 

The founder of Bon-Ami Photography shares her remarkable journey from registered nurse to boutique photographer, revealing how her experience as a military spouse raising three children fundamentally shaped her artistic perspective. "I know what it's like to hold a family together through chaos," Carline explains, "and because of that, I value the still moments even more." This quiet strength infuses every portrait she creates, mak...

Get ready to challenge your perceptions about septic systems as David Stewart, owner of Dominion Septic, joins us for an enlightening episode. David, with a robust background in soil science, sheds light on the critical maintenance that septic systems require to function efficiently. If you’re a homeowner who thinks that once the system is installed, you're in the clear, this episode is for you! 

David discusses the most frequent misconceptions he encounters, such as the idea that septic systems don't need regular maintenance. He encourages homeowners to view their systems actively instead of treating them as for...

Dori Stewart, former high school engineering teacher turned successful entrepreneur, reveals her remarkable journey from the classroom to the helm of her own STEM education company, and ultimately, into the world of local magazine publishing. Tune in to discover how she transformed a passion for teaching into a global franchise that reached millions of students, and how she now channels that same zeal into connecting her community through storytelling. Her transition into media wasn't just a career change but a perfect fusion of her love for community engagement and business acumen.

This episode offers a treasure trove...