In this episode, Grant and Crystal, co-owners of Summit Pickleball in Boone, share the real story behind starting a pickleball space rooted in community, connection, and place. From deciding to take the leap and build something local to learning what it actually takes to run a recreation-based business, they talk openly about the challenges, the risks, and the moments that made it worth it. More than just pickleball, this conversation explores why Boone matters to them, how community shows up when you build something with intention, and what it means to create a place where people genuinely want to be.

When Emily Brinker and her husband opened The Speckled Trout in Blowing Rock, they had no restaurant experience just grit, a love for Appalachian food, and a deep belief in community. In this episode, Emily shares how risk turned into reward, how hospitality became a mission, and why authenticity tastes better than perfection. From wild trout to fresh cocktails and long nights that shaped a dream, this story captures what happens when you say yes before you’re ready and build something real along the way.

Join us for a conversation with Daniel Law, a regenerative agriculture practitioner who's implementing innovative farming solutions in the remote Democratic Republic of Congo. Daniel shares his insights on the broken food system in America, the principles of regenerative agriculture, and how these practices are transforming communities in one of the world's most challenging environments. From soil health to food sovereignty, this episode explores what it takes to build truly sustainable food systems both at home and abroad.

http://Www.sankururegen.com

In this episode, we sit down with Boone-based Thai cook and community creator Sherri Pengjad, whose kitchen is filled with more than just flavor it’s full of heart, heritage, and connection. Sherri shares how her love for Thai cooking became a bridge between cultures, a way to celebrate her roots while building community right here in the High Country. From the lessons she learned growing up to the joy she finds in sharing meals with others, Sherri’s story reminds us that food is one of the most beautiful ways to tell our stories.

https://thai-foodie.com/thai-cooking-classes-in-boone-nc/

In this episode, Aaron shares his story of grit, curiosity, and community from growing up on a gravel road, up in a holler to becoming a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne and later co-founding Center 45 Climbing & Fitness. His reflections on risk, purpose, and the High Country climbing scene reveal how passion and perseverance can shape a place and the people around it. This episode celebrates the energy of Boone, the joy of climbing, and “being active and having a really, really fun time doing it.”

In this episode Jaco shares his wild story of adaptation and perseverance across continents, revealing how his commitment to hard work and genuine human connection has shaped both his life and career. This episode is a testament to the power of building deep relationships and embracing new communities, no matter where life takes you.

We dive into the world of software development, AI, and more as it relates to Boone!!

Today we dive into Scott’s story of building a manufacturing business here in town, how tariffs are changing the game, and what it takes to design something new! This is a great one you won’t want to miss.