Ricky Harris, CEO of Tennessee Voices, joins the conversation to discuss the pressing mental health issues Tennesseans face and the state's unique preventive measures. The episode delves into Tennessee Voices' mission, emphasizing collaboration and community-focused care, while also exploring the challenges of nonprofit leadership. Harris shares insights into effective self-care for mental health professionals, the importance of resilience in youth, and the critical role of parental support in improving mental health outcomes. This episode offers a deep look into the preventative strategies and leadership principles driving one of Tennessee's pivotal mental health organizations.

In this episode, Drew D'Agostino, founder and CEO of Crystal, dives deep into the realms of AI and Bitcoin. Intended for Tennesseans by Tennesseans, the discussion explores Drew's journey in the tech space, from creating a popular Chrome extension for LinkedIn to navigating ethical dilemmas in AI application. Drew also shares insights on leveraging AI for business growth, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and his unique perspective on managing company finances using Bitcoin. With a blend of relatable stories and expert analysis, this episode sheds light on the future of AI, the principles of building a tech company, and the intriguing dynamics of deflationary technology.

Brooks Herring, a Navy veteran and Nashville-based singer-songwriter, joins Spencer and Carli to share his journey from military service to the music scene. Growing up with a passion for music, Brooks discovered its power as a constant during his deployments, even mailing himself a guitar to Iraq. His time in the Navy and as a contractor in Afghanistan shaped both his perspective and his music, leading him to write deeply personal songs like “Why Me?” about survivor’s guilt and resilience. Now performing full-time, Brooks also advocates for veterans through organizations like RunPhase and CreatiVets. In this episode, he reflects on the healing power of music, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, and his decision to return to school to sharpen his songwriting skills.

In this episode, Jane Allen, founder of Counsel on Call (now Legility) and former CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, shares her inspiring journey from schoolteacher to legal industry trailblazer. Jane discusses the leap of faith that led her to law school, the founding of a company that pioneered flexible work options for lawyers, and the lessons learned from scaling and ultimately exiting her business. She reflects on balancing entrepreneurship and family life, the importance of adapting to challenges, and the power of collaboration with her husband, Greg. With relatable insights and candid stories, Jane offers a fresh perspective on risk-taking, leadership, and building a meaningful career while staying true to your values.

Adam Comer, CEO of S2L Recovery and Executive Producer of The Forgotten Pandemic documentary, joins Spencer and Carli to discuss his journey from addiction to redemption. Adam shares his powerful testimony, highlighting the transformative power of faith-based recovery and the importance of community in overcoming addiction. He delves into the challenges of addressing the opioid crisis, S2L's unique approach to breaking the cycle of addiction, and the life-changing impact on families and individuals. Tune in to hear about the hope and dignity found in recovery, the vision for S2L’s expansion, and how Adam’s personal story continues to inspire Tennesseans and beyond.

Melanie Shinbaum, Executive Director of the Nashville Early Education Coalition Fund, joins us to discuss the critical challenges facing early education in Tennessee. From systemic issues like low wages and limited accessibility to the economic and emotional toll on families, Melanie shares innovative solutions, including public-private partnerships, scalable childcare models, and the role of businesses in creating flexible, high-quality childcare options. With insights from her extensive nonprofit experience and personal stories as a mother, Melanie sheds light on why early education is essential for Tennessee’s families and economy. Tune in to explore actionable steps toward solving this pressing issue and the coalition’s efforts to bring together businesses, policymakers, and communities to make a lasting impact.

Josh Burch, Director of People at the Honor Foundation and a retired U.S. Army Green Beret, joins Spencer and Carli to share his remarkable journey from rural Tennessee to serving 16 deployments in Special Operations. In this episode, Josh discusses how the Honor Foundation helps transitioning veterans find purpose and fulfillment in civilian life by translating their military experience into valuable career opportunities. He reflects on the sacrifices of military families, the power of mentorship, and the importance of community. With stories of grit, resilience, and service, this conversation sheds light on the challenges veterans face and the transformative work of the Honor Foundation.

Sam Davidson, CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center (EC), joins Spencer and Carli to discuss how the EC empowers entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Sam shares insights into the EC’s mission to increase the success rate for startups through education, mentorship, and capital resources. He also reflects on his own entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of risk-taking, and how the EC fosters community and connection for Tennesseans pursuing their dreams. Tune in to hear how the EC is shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Tennessee.