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In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with C. Anthony Parker about his work in the short-term rental space through Revive B&B. He tells me he manages 25 properties across Charleston and nearby areas, all designed to feel like home with everything from cookware to toiletries already in place. He handles the decor himself and lets the vibe of each space guide the theme—one unit even has a beach house feel overlooking the Kanawha River. C. Anthony says guests include traveling nurses, families relocating for work, tourists, and people meeting halfway from different states. Most of his places are pet-friendly, and he always encourages visitors to support local businesses. He believes in helping others, whether that’s through employment, travel comfort, or simply showing off Charleston through a native’s eyes. You can see his work at revivebnb.info

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I visit the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center in South Charleston and talk with Mike Friel about their machinist technology program. It’s a two-year program offered with BridgeValley Community and Technical College, where students earn industry credentials and an associate degree. Mike shows me the computer-controlled machines students train on, including CNC machines, which use subtractive manufacturing to create precision parts. He explains how students learn programming, computer-aided design, and math, along with hands-on skills like blueprint reading and measuring within thousandths of an inch. The program isn’t just for recent grads—many students are adults changing careers, like a grandmother who became a machinist and opened her own shop, or a former hairdresser who now leads manufacturing at a major facility. Classes are split between BridgeValley and the Tech Park, and many students land jobs or internships before they graduate. Mike emphasizes that it’s about building real skills that lead to real work.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Scotty Stone, board secretary of the Clay County Business Development Authority. He explains that Clay County is part of the Charleston metro area, so it qualifies for many of the same grants and programs. We talk about new public transportation coming to the area thanks to a partnership with Mountain Transit Authority, helping people access food, jobs, and healthcare. Food security is a top concern, and transit gives residents access to grocery options in nearby towns. Scotty also shares updates on recreation, including new pickleball courts, improved soccer fields, and efforts to promote youth sports for better community health. We discuss the Elk River Trail and how the county supports outdoor development, but the focus is shifting toward small business growth. Clay saw the highest per-capita business startup rate in the state recently, especially with food trucks taking advantage of the central location. Looking ahead, Scotty sees more family-friendly experiences and outdoor opportunities on the way. He invites everyone to visit, ride the Rail Explorers, and try the pepperoni rolls at Legacy Foods, which he says are Facebook-famous.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I run into Mike Wynn from Greens during First Tuesdays at Short Story. Most people know the name Green’s Feed and Seed, but Mike explains that Greens has grown into much more, including Ace Hardware, power equipment, and full contractor support through partnerships like Thomas Do It Center. They’ve expanded their services to include building materials, roofing, windows, and more, all under the Greens Group umbrella. Mike started in landscaping and now focuses on outside sales, visiting customers directly to help with whatever they need on-site. He tells me about their new Green’s Supply Depot in Parkersburg, located in the old Kmart, offering everything from hardware to firearms. Other locations include Big Chimney and Ripley, which will soon become another Greens Ace Hardware. When I ask about sales advice, Mike keeps it simple—show up, network, and meet people. I agree. It’s not called net-sitting or net-standing—it’s networking.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I explain the difference between outcome goals and process goals and why that shift matters. Outcome goals—like hitting a revenue target or gaining followers—are outside our control and can lead to burnout when we don’t meet them. But process goals—like posting two videos a week or making five prospect calls a day—are within our control and help us build daily wins. I talk about how tying your identity to outcomes can damage your mindset, but focusing on consistent actions keeps you grounded and moving forward. I recommend books like Atomic Habits, The Compound Effect, and How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big to go deeper. My advice is to pick a process goal this week, track it, and celebrate it every day. That’s how you protect your mental health, stay consistent, and build a business that lasts.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Roy Bird, a boiler mechanic with over 30 years of experience. He explains his work, which involves maintaining boilers that generate steam for industries like hospitals and oil processing plants. Roy shares how he got into this field at 14 and transitioned from HVAC to working with boilers after realizing he wasn’t keen on crawling through attics. Nine years ago, he started his own business, Olson Boiler HVAC Services, and talks about the fears he faced when leaving a steady job. He emphasizes the challenges of being your own boss, particularly having hundreds of bosses—your clients—and the long hours that come with building a business. Roy’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to prepare thoroughly before starting—make sure you have the necessary licenses, insurance, and financial support. His motto is simple: treat others well, and good things will come back to you.