Voices of Inspiration Podcast

12/20/2024

A week before Thanksgiving, I sat down with Erin Smith, owner of Humanité Boutique in Bryson City, Swain County, North Carolina to hear her powerful story of navigating challenges as a small business owner during Hurricane Helene. Her story is one I won’t forget. Grab your tissues! We talk about overcoming those challenges, how the community came together in powerful ways , and the many things that make Bryson City such a special place to visit—especially during the holiday season. 🎄✨

🎧 Like this episode? Subscribe for more inspiring conversations, and don’t forget to leave a review on your favorite podcast platform—it makes a big difference! Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch the full video now!

https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/humanite-boutique-hurricane-helene-and-the-power-of-community/

Visit North Carolina

Discover how Humanité Boutique and Bryson City, NC united after Hurricane Helene, showcasing the strength of small businesses and the power of community

11/21/2024

🎙️ New Episode!
Bryson City, Swain County, North Carolina is a small town with a big heart. Sarah Conley, Executive Director of the Swain County TDA, shares how the community came together after Hurricane Helene to make sure everything was ready to welcome visitors this winter.

With the Polar Express rolling into town and the Smoky Mountain Christmas Light Spectacular lighting up the season, Bryson City is the perfect spot for holiday cheer. 🏔️🚂✨

🎧 Tune in to hear more about this mountain town’s resilience, charm, and why it’s a must-visit this winter. https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/bryson-city-ncs-resilient-spirit-and-holiday-traditions/

Visit North Carolina
N.C. Transportation Museum

Discover Bryson City, NC’s resilience and holiday magic. From the Polar Express to festive lights, explore this charming mountain town’s unforgettable traditions.

11/14/2024

🏔️ New Episode is Live! 🏔️

In September, Hurricane Helene hit Western North Carolina, deeply impacting our mountain communities. This episode kicks off a series highlighting voices from these resilient areas. Today, we’re joined by Armando Garcia, Tourism Marketing Director of Beech Mountain, who shares how the town came together after the storm and is now ready to welcome visitors for an unforgettable winter season. From local support to what’s in store on the slopes, Armando shows us what makes Beech Mountain so special. ❄️

If you’re inspired by stories of community strength or planning a winter getaway, this one’s for you. What’s the first thing you’d do in Beech Mountain this winter?

🎧 Catch the episode here 👉https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/beech-mountain-winter-travel-hurricane-helene/



Visit North Carolina
Town of Beech Mountain

08/08/2024

I’m thrilled to announce that I am a nominee in the Women in Podcasting Awards!

Please vote for Voices of Inspiration in the TRAVEL category. Your vote would go a long way in helping me gain visibility and get my message out into the world.

Instructions:

Step #1: Go here to vote now until October 1st: https://www.womenpodcasters.com/vote

Step #2: Find Voices of Inspiration under the Travel category, and cast your vote!

There is no fee for voting, but there is a double opt-in to prevent fake traffic or votes. The person with the most votes will win the category. There is one vote per person per podcast, so your support is much appreciated!

There are some incredible nominees across different categories. You can check them all out here -> https://womeninpodcasting.net/awards/nominees/

Thank you for being apart of this passion project of mine. Sharing stories of people and places from around the world brings so much light to my life. And your support means so much to me!

07/16/2024

🌟 New Episode Alert! 🌟

Join me as I chat with John Murray, the passionate owner of 96 Pecan Company in Ninety-Six, South Carolina. 🏡🌳

In this episode, John shares:

🔹 His shift to pecan farming after retirement
🔹 Applying football lessons to business
🔹 Navigating the challenges of agriculture and food production
🔹 Expanding into candy-making at 96 Pecan Company
🔹 Creating a welcoming, family-farm atmosphere
🔹 Building customer loyalty through generosity

John's story is a testament to how retirement can open new doors. Discover how he’s turned his business into a community gathering place and a beacon of support. 🌟

For those visiting Ninety-Six, SC:
✨ Why 96 Pecan Company is a must-visit
✨ What visitors can experience at the store
✨ A glimpse into small-town Southern hospitality

🎧 Tune in now! Audio and video versions are available on all major platforms. 📺

https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/john-murray-96-pecan-company/

Audio and Video: Melanie L**h Multimedia
Special Thanks: Old 96 District Tourism

John Murray's 96 Pecan Company: From football to farming in Ninety-Six, SC. Discover his retirement venture and impact on local community

07/09/2024

Happy Tuesday!! In this episode, I chat with Chef Erica McCier, owner of Indigenous Underground and 2023 South Carolina Chef Ambassador. From middle school art teacher to culinary trailblazer, McCier's journey was sparked by a life-changing health crisis. Learn how she overcame a near death experience, embraced cooking as therapy, and transformed her passion into a thriving restaurant in Abbeville, SC.

Audio and Video: Melanie L**h Multimedia
Special Thanks: Old 96 District Tourism

Discover Erica McCier's journey from art teacher to celebrated chef at Indigenous Underground in SC. Learn how a near-death experience led to her culinary success.

07/02/2024

🌟 New Episode Alert! 🌟

Ever wondered what it takes to turn a historic 1920s schoolhouse into a charming bed and breakfast? 🏫✨ Join us as we chat with Benita Chupp, who shares the incredible story of Sharon Manor in Abbeville, SC. From an unexpected auction win to a cozy B&B, discover the renovation journey, family teamwork, and the joys of small-town hospitality. 🛏️❤️

Perfect for history buffs, renovation enthusiasts, and travel lovers alike! Don't miss this heartwarming story of family entrepreneurship and community spirit. 🌟🏡

🎥 Watch or listen now->
https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/sharon-manor-historic-bb/

Available on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, or wherever else you may catch your favorite podcast!

Audio and Video: Melanie L**h Multimedia

Special Thanks to Old 96 District Tourism

Discover how a 1920s schoolhouse became Sharon Manor B&B in Abbeville, SC. Join Benita Chupp's journey from auction win to cozy B&B, with family teamwork and small-town charm

06/25/2024

🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎧

Join me for a chat with Chef Darren Smith from Conway, SC, just outside of Visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He shares his journey from his first days in the kitchen to owning Rivertown Bistro and Bonfire - A Smokin' Taqueria. 🍽️✨

Get the inside scoop on what makes a restaurant thrive, from hiring great talent to fostering a positive work environment. Darren talks about his core values: creating a welcoming atmosphere, serving fantastic food quickly, and sticking to a reliable menu. 🏆

For aspiring chefs, Darren offers advice on learning from experienced pros, exploring cookbooks, and keeping family food traditions alive. 📚👨‍🍳

Plus, discover Darren's favorite local restaurants and hidden culinary gems in and around Conway. Hear about his exciting experience on Chef Swap at The Beach and get a taste of the vibrant food scene in this charming South Carolina town.

Available on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts!

Discover South Carolina

Discover Chef Darren Smith's journey from line cook to Rivertown Bistro owner. Learn restaurant success tips, cooking advice, and Conway's culinary secrets

06/18/2024

New episode alert! Start your day with a little inspiration from Shawn Askinosie, founder of Askinosie Chocolate! Find out how this former criminal defense attorney found solace and purpose in chocolate making. This is one of my favorite episodes!

In this episode, Shawn Askinosie, founder of Askinosie Chocolate, shares his journey from being a criminal defense lawyer to pursuing chocolate.

05/22/2024

New episode available today!

In this episode, I chat with Rachel Knight, tourism director of Explore Berkeley County, SC.

Learn about current preservation efforts, how you can experience battlefield tours, and upcoming events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolutionary War.

Available on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.

Special thanks to Santee Cooper Country!
https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/exploring-berkeley-county-sc/

Discover South Carolina

Discover Berkeley County, SC's Revolutionary War history with Rachel Knight. Learn about historic sites, preservation efforts, and upcoming anniversary events.

05/17/2024

New episode alert!! In this episode, I chat with Krissy Milan and Colette Daniels about Swan Lake Iris Gardens.

Swan Lake Iris Gardens, established in 1927, began as a private pond however, a twist of fate turned this into a haven for Japanese Irises, now boasting around 120 species.

Over time, Swan Lake evolved from a private retreat to a beloved community treasure. Today, it stands as the only public park in the U.S. home to all eight known swan species. The gardens also hold the distinction of being a level 2 arboretum.

Join us as we explore the unique features of Swan Lake Iris Gardens, its impact on Sumter's identity, and the oldest festival in South Carolina-The Iris Festival.

Santee Cooper Country
Visit Sumter, SC
Discover South Carolina

Discover the enchanting Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter, SC, a botanical wonderland featuring all eight swan species.

05/08/2024

New podcast episode available today! In this episode, we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the South Carolina state dance! Local Myrtle Beach s**g experts Darrell Gaither and Lori Setzer share the history of the S**g and how this dance has changed their lives. Available on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts!

Visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum
Discover South Carolina

https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/celebrating-40-years-of-s**g-dancing-in-myrtle-beach-south-carolina

SPECIAL THANKS FOR THIS EPISODE:
VIDEOGRAPHY, AUDIO, AND BTS : Melanie L**h Multimedia

Send us a Text Message. Join Amelia Old, Darrell Gaither, and Lori Setzer as they celebrate the 40th anniversary of South Carolina's state dance at the North Myrtle…

05/03/2024

Step into the heart of Winna's Kitchen as I sit down with Chef Jess Sagun. In this episode, Jess shares the personal journey behind Winna's Kitchen, a place where community, comfort, and cuisine intertwine. Jess opens up about her path, and how these experiences have shaped the warm, inviting space that is Winna's Kitchen. Jess also opens up about the touching moments of generosity and kindness she's experienced from the community, illustrating Winna's Kitchen as not just a restaurant, but a cherished space in Visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

VIDEOGRAPHY, AUDIO, AND BTS : Melanie L**h Multimedia.

Discover South Carolina

Step into the heart of Winna's Kitchen with Amelia Old as she sits down with Chef Jess Sagun. In this episode, Jess shares the personal journey behind Winna's Kitch…

04/10/2024

In my first on location episode, I sit down with the Executive Director of the Benjamin E. Mays Historic Site in Discover Greenwood, Christopher Thomas.

Join us as we dive into the life of Dr. Benjamin E. Mays and explore his profound impact on American history and the civil rights movement. This historic site preserves and honors Dr. Mays' legacy as a great moral leader who inspired a generation to pursue higher callings in life and make a difference in the world.

Available on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.
https://www.voicesofinspirationpodcast.com/honoring-dr-benjamin-e-mays/

VIDEOGRAPHY, AUDIO, AND BTS : Melanie L**h Multimedia

Old 96 District Tourism
Discover South Carolina

Discover the legacy of Dr. Benjamin E. Mays. Join us for an insightful interview with Christopher Thomas.

02/14/2024

Join me today as I dive into the savory world of Daryl Shular, CMC, founder of the Shular Institute. Discover the ingredients of success in mentorship, diversity, and culinary excellence!

Available wherever you get your podcasts!

Explore Chef Daryl Shular's recipe for success and commitment to nurturing future chefs. Join us for a culinary journey of wisdom and passion.