Archives: Episodes

In this episode, I chat with Andrew Ford and Jay Nelson, the owners of Bogey’s At Capitol Market, about their journey in the restaurant business. They recently celebrated the grand opening of their second location at the Capitol Market in Charleston, drawing a crowd of around 150 people. Andrew shares their seven-year history at the original spot in Tornado, where they host events like concerts and pig roasts. Jay reflects on his past in the restaurant industry and how he returned to it despite his initial reluctance. Both emphasize the long hours and hard work required to succeed, highlighting the passion that fuels them and their team. They stress the importance of loving what you do and being ready for challenges, offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace failure and stay committed. Their story is a testament to the hustle that drives small business owners in our community.

In this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I chat with Jacob Holmes, a local filmmaker and videographer, about his latest project. Jacob’s film, Two, created by his company Eagle Eye Productions, explores infertility through the real-life experiences of couples and doctors. It premiered in Teays Valley and then Charleston’s Floralee Hark Cohen Cinema, with potential for more screenings. Jacob talks about the challenges of independent filmmaking, including funding and marketing, and the support he’s received from his network. The film is inspired by his cousins’ infertility journey, aiming to raise awareness and empathy for those facing similar struggles. Jacob plans to take a break from production to focus on his business and nonprofit, the Horizon Foundation. He invites listeners to check out Eagle Eye Productions’ website https://www.eagleeyeprods.com for updates on the film’s availability.

Today on the Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I chat with Scotty Stone from Goodwill Industries of Kanawha Valley. Scotty is an employment specialist dedicated to helping people overcome barriers to reentering the workforce. He explains that while many think of Goodwill as just a thrift store, the revenue from these stores supports mission services, including resume building, application help, interview preparation, and more. Scotty’s role involves crafting effective resumes and preparing individuals for interviews, with a focus on boosting confidence and showcasing unique traits. He also highlights the Suited for Success program, which provides professional attire for job interviews. Scotty works with anyone needing assistance, from mid-career professionals to those reentering the job market. To learn more about Goodwill’s services, you can call (304) 346-0811, extension 1030.

I’m chatting with Kerry-Ann Wilkinson in Dunbar, where she’s opening the Fab Institute of Beauty. Kerry’s hustle is all about beauty, something she’s been passionate about since childhood. After 20 years in the industry and running her own salon for eight years, she’s now starting a beauty school to train future hairstylists, makeup artists, and wax specialists. Originally from Jamaica, Kerry moved to the U.S. for college and pursued her dream of working in beauty. She encourages people to just start when building a business, emphasizing that mistakes are part of the process. Her school’s curriculum is state-accredited, and she’s committed to giving students the tools they need to succeed in the beauty industry. Kerry’s story is one of determination, and she’s excited to help others follow their dreams.

I sit down with Tiara Brown, the Community Development Coordinator at EnAct Community Action, to discuss her work supporting low-income communities in West Virginia. Tiara explains how EnAct Community Action helps individuals become self-sustainable through programs like two-year degree assistance, vehicle repairs, and rental or utility support. We talk about how small setbacks, like a broken car, can be devastating for someone living on the poverty line, and how EnAct fills those gaps by partnering with other organizations. Tiara also shares her responsibilities, including event planning, fundraising, and securing grants to keep their programs running. She encourages anyone in need of help or looking to partner with EnAct to reach out and reminds us to share resources with others who may benefit.

In this episode, I talk with Lori McNabb, the owner of Spotlight Dance and Acrobatics. Lori shares her journey of turning a lifelong dream into reality. She always wanted to open a dance studio, but she initially pursued a career as a counselor and administrator. After praying for guidance, she received a call about a building for rent, which she took as a sign to follow her passion. Lori opened her studio in 2009, and now her daughters and longtime dancer Brooke are helping to keep the dream alive by teaching a variety of dance and fitness classes. Lori explains the challenges of leaving a stable job to start her own business and emphasizes the importance of following your passion, working hard, and having a strong support system. She encourages others to pursue their dreams, even if it means putting in long hours and juggling multiple jobs.