What does it take to transform a childhood passion into a thriving beauty business? Shamail McKenzie's journey from practicing on Barbie styling heads to becoming an award-winning hair and makeup artist reveals the perfect blend of artistic talent, business savvy, and genuine care for clients.

Shamail opens up about her 15+ years in the beauty industry, sharing how she built her business from the ground up without any entrepreneurial role models in her family. Her mother's unwavering support—encouraging her daughter to pursue her passion and even ensuring she had Brown Barbies that reflected her own appearance—laid the foundation for a career celebrating women's unique beauty.

What truly sets Shamail apart is her philosophy of personalized beauty. "Don't be cookie-cutter," she emphasizes, explaining how she adapts techniques for different face shapes, bone structures, and features. Through training at MAC Cosmetics and cosmetology school, she developed a keen eye for how to enhance rather than mask individual beauty. Her approach transforms not just appearances but confidence—helping clients see themselves through a lens of celebration rather than criticism.

Now pivoting toward coaching other beauty professionals, Shamail aims to fill a gap she encountered herself: guidance on the business aspects of beauty artistry. From contracts to pricing to client experience, she's passionate about helping others avoid the trial and error that marked her early career. Her practical advice for aspiring makeup artists—practice on yourself before bed, work at makeup counters to experience diverse faces, and continuously revisit educational resources—offers a roadmap for success in this competitive field.

Listen in as we explore Shamail's inspiring story and gather valuable insights about beauty, business, and the art of celebrating what makes each person uniquely beautiful. Connect with Shamail at ShamailMcKenzie.com or TheArtOfBeautiful.com to learn how she can transform your special day or help you build your own beauty business.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Judge Jim Goodwin lifts the veil on what recovery courts really are—not programs for first-time offenders as commonly misunderstood, but rather the last line of defense before long-term incarceration for those caught in addiction's grip. As Criminal Court Judge for the Second Judicial District in Sullivan County, Goodwin has transformed the landscape of rehabilitation in East Tennessee through innovative court programs that break the cycle of addiction and crime.

Goodwin's journey began during his 15 years as a prosecutor, including work with child abuse cases that left him seeking something positive to balance the emotional weight. This experience, coupled with his early exposure to the judiciary during law school, planted the seed for his eventual role as a judge. Taking office in 2014, he wasted no time establishing the region's first recovery court, accepting their first participant by spring 2015.

What makes this story particularly compelling is the evolution of recovery court services under Goodwin's watch. The original outpatient program has expanded to include a compliance docket for lower-risk individuals and residential programs housing up to 85 men in Roan Mountain and 12 women in Johnson City. The most striking testament to the program's effectiveness? Among 30-40 graduates over nearly a decade, only two participants have relapsed—an extraordinary success rate in addiction recovery work.

Behind the statistics lie powerful human stories, including a woman who was contemplating suicide in her jail cell while applying for the program. After initially going through the motions, something clicked, and she committed fully to recovery. Today, she's a regional manager who has regained custody of her children, helped her husband and sister overcome their own addictions, and even established support meetings in her community. As Judge Goodwin notes, many participants have never before had authority figures tell them they have value or recognize their achievements—something that proves transformative when combined with structure, support and accountability.

Ready to hear more inspiring stories of redemption through East Tennessee's innovative approach to addiction and criminal justice? Listen now and discover why Judge Goodwin calls his recovery court sessions "the best part of my work week."

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

What happens when tourism expertise meets a passion for pageants and photography? Something magical, as Krishna Goodwin demonstrates in this captivating conversation about professional imagery, personal branding, and finding your true path.

Krishna pulls back the curtain on her journey from Sullivan County Tourism Director to sought-after photographer, revealing how her husband's hobby unexpectedly launched her into a specialized career capturing stunning headshots for pageant contestants and professionals alike. With remarkable emotional intelligence and 30 years of pageant experience, Krishna has developed an uncanny ability to identify and minimize insecurities, helping clients present their best, authentic selves to the world.

"We look in the mirror and see something different than maybe what everybody else sees," Krishna explains, sharing her philosophy that exceptional photography isn't just technical skill—it's understanding people. Through her work with beauty queens, realtors, and corporate professionals, she demonstrates why professional headshots matter more than ever in our digital-first world, where first impressions often happen before you walk through the door.

Beyond photography techniques, Krishna offers wisdom about career pivots, finding mentors, and embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth. Her faith-centered approach to business—"When I gave my business to God, it brings me the clients He wants me to have"—provides a refreshing perspective on professional success that prioritizes meaning over volume.

Ready to upgrade from backyard selfies to images that truly represent your personal brand? Listen now and discover why Krishna believes your headshot is more than just a photo—it's your calling card to the world.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Navigating today's mortgage market doesn't have to be overwhelming. Steve Reed of Benchmark Home Loans joins us to cut through the confusion with straightforward talk about what's really happening with housing inventory, interest rates, and smart loan shopping in 2024.

The real estate landscape has noticeably shifted from the frenzy of 2021-2022. We're seeing about 20% more inventory compared to last year, with homes typically staying on market for 30-90 days instead of hours or days. While this feels dramatically different after the pandemic market, Steve explains it's actually a return to historical norms. Properties priced right and in good condition still move quickly, while overpriced homes or those needing significant repairs linger longer.

Interest rates present perhaps the biggest source of consumer confusion. Steve dismantles the myth of "the rate" by explaining how your personal mortgage rate depends on at least 27 different factors including credit score, down payment, property type, location, debt-to-income ratio, and intended use. While average rates currently hover between 6.5-6.75%, the good news is they're trending downward as inflation stabilizes.

One of our most valuable discussions centers on rate shopping and the potentially deceptive practice of advertising rock-bottom rates without disclosing required points. Steve breaks down how paying points works mathematically - showing that on a $300,000 loan, the difference of 1/8% in rate equals merely $24 monthly (or "two Starbucks lattes"). This perspective helps frame the true value proposition of working with knowledgeable local lenders versus chasing marginally lower advertised rates from big-box lenders.

First-time homebuyers receive special attention as Steve emphasizes their need for education, certainty, and guidance through the biggest purchase they've likely ever made. When every dollar counts, having clear expectations about down payments, closing costs, and monthly obligations becomes crucial. The value of working with experienced professionals who provide transparency and personalized service far outweighs potentially saving a few dollars monthly.

Ready to explore your mortgage options with professionals who prioritize education and transparency? Connect with our team today to discuss your specific situation and goals.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Join us for a dynamic episode where we explore the incredible impact of youth fast-pitch softball on the Northeast Tennessee community, featuring special guest Tina Gale. With nearly two decades of experience, Tina has transformed local sports by creating the Diamond Classic tournaments, bringing together families and young athletes in exhilarating competition each year.

Dive into the story of how Tina began her journey, fueled by a passion for empowering young girls through sports. She shares valuable insights into the economic benefits of these tournaments, highlighting how they attract hundreds of families and generate substantial revenue for local businesses, from hotels to restaurants. But it isn’t just about the numbers; Tina emphasizes the life skills and self-esteem these young players gain from competing and collaborating on the field.

Learn how parents can help their children take their first steps into softball, whether starting at recreational leagues or transitioning to travel teams. This engaging discussion also features heartwarming anecdotes about young athletes who have transitioned from these tournaments to collegiate-level play, showcasing the nurturing environment Tina has cultivated over the years.

As we reflect on the importance of fostering community through activities and sports, tune in to discover how you can get involved and support local softball. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review if you find value in our work—your engagement helps us to continue shining a light on the amazing stories within our community!

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Discover how Thermodynamic Health, led by Kevin Corbett, is revolutionizing wellness in Northeast Tennessee. In this engaging episode, Kevin candidly shares his battle with chronic pain, revealing how it motivated him to create a holistic health center that emphasizes natural therapies over conventional medication.

From innovative modalities like cryotherapy and contrast therapy to essential discussions on the role of community in health, this episode delivers compelling insights into reclaiming wellness intertwined with personal experience. Explore the science behind therapies designed to reduce inflammation and boost cellular health.

Thermodynamic Health aims to be a sanctuary for those seeking alternatives to traditional medical routes, providing a varied, integrative approach to healing. Whether you’re struggling with chronic issues or simply want to optimize your overall wellness journey, Kevin offers practical advice and encouragement.

We invite you to connect with these ideas while taking the first steps toward understanding your health better. For listeners curious about natural treatment options and collaborative care processes, this episode serves as an essential guide to navigating today's complex healthcare landscape.

Join us for an enlightening conversation and connect with us further by checking out Thermodynamic Health’s website and social media. Your health journey is waiting—let's embark on this path together!

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Join us as we sit down with the inspiring Karen Hubs from Goose Chase, a visionary who is turning a wild idea into a transformative movement for the fitness community in East Tennessee. Discover how Karen, inspired by the metaphor of a 'wild goose chase' from Mark Batterson's "The Circle Maker," left a 15-year career at the Chamber of Commerce to create her own path in the world of health and wellness. Learn how she spearheaded Fit Fest, a vibrant festival encouraging everyone to find joy in physical activity, from pickleball to taekwondo, and the overwhelming success of her community walking program. As we gear up for the next Fit Fest at the Memorial Park Community Center, Karen shares insights on how this initiative is reshaping East Tennessee’s approach to health, aiming to lift the state from its historical health rankings.

Karen’s journey isn't just about fitness; it’s a story of passion, faith, and entrepreneurship. She takes us behind the scenes of Goose Chase, revealing the deeply personal experiences that spurred her collaborations with Make-A-Wish and Ronald McDonald House. We explore her latest venture, Run 423, a local clothing brand celebrating the legacy of the area’s original area code, and the creative ways she’s expanding into new markets. Karen’s story is a testament to the power of stepping outside comfort zones, revisiting childhood interests, and aligning with one’s true calling. Whether you're looking to be inspired by Karen’s entrepreneurial spirit or eager to find your own path to wellness, this episode promises insights and stories that resonate deeply with anyone ready to pursue their passions.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Could AI be the hammer that builds or the hammer that breaks? Join us as we venture into the transformative world of AI with Austin Ramsey, the innovative CEO of Point Tech. We explore the promise and peril of artificial intelligence, from its potential to revolutionize industries like real estate to its role in medical breakthroughs and the ever-present threat to privacy and data security. Austin shares his insights from recent trips and collaborations, painting a vivid picture of how AI is reshaping the business landscape.

Dive into the heart of Northeast Tennessee's vibrant business climate under the new administration, where optimism meets action. Austin reflects on the swift governmental response to recent devastations and the emphasis on transparency in governance. We also examine the significant investments in AI by giants like OpenAI, Oracle, and Microsoft, setting the stage for AI's thrilling yet daunting evolution. The journey isn't just about technology—it's about the human connection that Austin fosters through Point Tech, empowering businesses to navigate these changes with confidence.

As the competition heats up, we look at the dynamic landscape where tech titans like Elon Musk are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. From the historical context of AI's rapid advancement to navigating cybersecurity threats, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge. Austin's unique approach integrates the human element into technology, ensuring that businesses can focus on their passions while leaving their tech worries behind. This engaging discussion is a must-listen for anyone eager to understand the intersection of technology, business, and personal connection.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.