Episódios

  • Professional photographer Carol from Asheville joins us for a conversation filled with resilience and creativity. She opens up about the daunting challenge of rebuilding her business after Hurricane Helene, turning adversity into an opportunity for rebranding in 2025. Carol’s journey from her high school photography days to a successful career in concert photography is inspiring, and her current focus on bringing out the unique personality of businesses through comprehensive branding packages is a testament to her visionary approach. Whether capturing a massage therapist’s tranquil setting or a real estate agent’s friendly aura, Carol’s work goes beyond mere headshots to tell compelling stories.

    Entrepreneur's Bio:


    The best compliment Carol could receive is someone saying, ‘I usually hate having my picture taken but instead, I enjoyed every minute of it!” She is a true people-person who loves pumping others full of confidence, and was drawn to her art form for that very challenge: to help more people enjoy it. By supporting clients and bringing positive energy, she gives them a natural high that comes from taking and seeing a beautiful image of themselves. In the studio or workout class, she is always rooting for others so they can achieve their goals. It’s hard to be our own biggest cheerleader, which is why she uses optimism to uplift and support others.

    Looking for someone to change your headshot experience into a positive one? Carol not only takes headshots but specialize in creating them. Being an expression coach, she'll guide you through the whole process to get the look you want while keeping your genuine personality in mind. From guiding you on what to wear to giving detailed instructions in front of the camera, you not only walk away with a headshot you can be proud of but an experience you will want to tell your colleagues and friends about.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • Tim and Leslie Grotenhuis join us for a remarkable exploration into the world of race directing and entrepreneurship. After moving to Asheville in 2005 and immersing themselves in the running community, this passionate pair transformed their volunteer work into Kick It Events, a flourishing business birthed in 2014. They reveal how Leslie's production coordination skills and Tim's web design expertise paved the way for their success, and how they turned the challenge of directing races such as the Thomas Wolfe 8K and the Hot Chocolate 10K into a thriving enterprise. Their journey underscores the unpredictable paths that hobbies can take, shaped by creativity, community involvement, and a shared love for running.

    Join us for an inspiring conversation that challenges you to keep an open mind and push the boundaries of your ventures.

    Kick It Events Management is a small, family owned business producing outstanding events in Asheville and the surrounding Western NC area. The company launched in 2014, but their journey of becoming running event production coordinators begins much earlier.
    Originally, they donated our time as volunteer race directors to the Asheville Track Club for the Thomas Wolfe 8k and to the Isaac Dickson Elementary School PTO for the Hot Chocolate 10k (now the Hot Chocolate Races) from 2006 to 2013. After many requests for help with other events they launched the race direction side of the business in 2014 and became professional event producers. In 2020, as the world screeched to a halt they used that lull in the event schedule to add race timing to our list of services as well as adding some event marketing skills to their resume.

    Leslie and Tim currently produce over 15 races a year and have a handful of race timing only clients. They also work with and help support through partnerships over 15 local non-profit organizations.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

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  • Imagine transforming your passion for craftsmanship into a thriving business. That's exactly what Houston Trim did, and today, he's sharing his inspiring journey from the workshop to founding Innovex Renovations in Asheville. We promise you'll glean priceless insights as Houston recounts his transition from working with his father in the trades to mastering the nuances of running a business. He candidly reveals how his move to Asheville, spurred by his wife’s career, became a turning point that tested his resilience and business acumen.

    Houston's story is a testament to the power of delegation and the importance of work-life balance. Overwhelmed by long hours and family commitments, he faced the critical need to adapt when a chance encounter with a business coach changed his perspective. Discover how embracing the 80-20 rule and trusting others not only improved his business operations but also enhanced his personal well-being. Through mentorship and learning from experienced professionals, Houston highlights the necessity of recognizing one's limits and finding strength in teamwork.

    We also dive into the essence of business growth and leadership through the lens of the BE EPIC framework: Bring the Energy, Education, Planning, Inspiration, and Commitment. Houston illustrates these pillars with personal anecdotes and practical strategies that have driven his company’s success. We explore the significance of embracing change, making tough decisions, and adapting to new circumstances—essential moves for any entrepreneur balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Join us for this enriching conversation that not only celebrates entrepreneurial spirit but also equips aspiring business owners with valuable lessons for growth and transformation.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • Unlock the secrets to transforming your organization's visibility and credibility through the power of public relations with insights from our guest, Kyle Parks of Parks PR. From Asheville, NC to the Tampa Bay area, Kyle shares his expertise on how PR has evolved beyond traditional media, utilizing platforms like social media and e-newsletters to craft impactful strategies tailored to any budget. Whether you're navigating the B2B or B2C landscape, discover how understanding your unique value proposition and target audience can shape a compelling PR approach. Kyle explains the importance of discovery calls and strategic planning, ensuring that your message resonates with the right people.

    Kyle Parks, principal of Parks PR LLC, has a combination of high-level journalism, corporate and public relations agency experience. Parks PR, which specializes in helping clients get visibility for what they do while enhancing their credibility, has a wide range of clients in Asheville and in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. In Asheville, clients include the Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks, and the Land of the Sky Association of Realtors. Parks PR has also done work for the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Asheville. In the community, Kyle is on the board of Blue Ridge Public Radio, and is a member and volunteer with The Cathedral of All Souls and the Rotary Club of Asheville. • Prior to launching Parks PR, Kyle served as: o Business reporter and editor for the Tampa Bay Times in Florida. o Director of corporate communications for Walter Industries, a Tampa-based Fortune 1000 company at the time, which had seven subsidiaries and over 7,000 employees. o Director of marketing/PR for two real estate organizations – Jim Walter Homes and the residential land development division of Plum Creek. o Principal and co-founder of B2 Communications, a St. Petersburg agency that has worked with such organizations as Colliers, Valley Bank, Lennar Homes, SPCA Tampa Bay, and the University of Tampa.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • This episode centers on the innovative design agency 40 Hearts, exploring its founders' collaborative approach to overcoming challenges in the design industry. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, work-life balance, and how their unique business model redefines success beyond traditional hustle culture.

    • Overview of 40 Hearts and its founding partners
    • The importance of community engagement in design projects
    • Challenges and opportunities in transitioning from solopreneur to partnership
    • Defining individual strengths and roles within the agency
    • Embracing remote work dynamics as a modern collaboration tool
    • Focus on community impact through creative collaborations
    • Personal reflections on the journey toward partnership and success

    Reggie's Bio:

    Reggie is an award-winning, multi-disciplinary graphic designer and photographer. He received his BFA in Graphic Design in 1997 from Maryville University in St. Louis.

    After 23 years of success running Curve Theory, a design and branding business, Reggie recently founded 40 Hearts with 2 partners. Their hope is to retain big design projects in Asheville and garner business from other markets across the country.

    Reggie is considered a design leader in his industry. He created the multimedia class at Washington University as part of the Visual Communications curriculum.

    A believer in community service, Reggie has served in many key Board roles in the community. Currently, he serves as the Professional Services Chair on the Art Coalition for Arts AVL. He is also the founding president of the Asheville chapter of the 111-year-old national, professional design association, AIGA. He currently serves on the organization’s National Board.

    Reggie has dedicated his career to helping small and large businesses and organizations effectively connect with their audiences.

    https://www.40hearts.com/

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this episode, we sit down with Adam Knapp, founder of Knapp Creative Coaching, to explore how you can unlock your full potential through personal and professional transformation. Adam shares his inspiring journey from decades as an educator, implementing holistic and collaborative teaching methods, to becoming a transformational coach.

    We dive into the Five Elements of Transformation – communication, accountability, clarity, awareness, and action – which form the foundation of his work. Adam explains how to identify barriers, recognize past successes, and take meaningful steps toward achieving your goals. He also highlights the importance of asking questions, building healthy habits, and embracing a mindset of curiosity to overcome challenges.

    If you’re looking to unlock your potential and take the next step in your personal or professional journey, this episode is packed with practical and powerful insights!

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this podcast, we explore key business insights from Jay Baer’s impactful presentation at BizX. As a 7th-generation entrepreneur and marketing expert, Jay outlines six actionable strategies to harness speed as a competitive advantage in business. Whether you're looking to improve customer satisfaction or streamline operations, these tactics can transform how you run your business and meet customer demands.

    Discover how to:

    -Conduct a "Got It Audit" to improve response times.
    -Answer customer questions before they even ask.
    -Set clear speed expectations to build trust and satisfaction.
    -Close uncertainty gaps to prevent misunderstandings.
    -Offer a fast pass to prioritize high-value customers and boost profits.

    These business-focused strategies can give you a two-year advantage over competitors and set you apart in your industry. Don't miss out on learning how speed can redefine success for your business!

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this podcast, we’re diving into the concept that you are your best equipment and why it’s essential to treat yourself as your most valuable asset. Just as you wouldn’t skip maintenance on crucial tools, your own self-care can’t be overlooked if you want to reach and sustain your goals. We’ll cover three key areas for self-investment: physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

    Physically, it’s about fueling yourself with good nutrition, staying hydrated, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Your energy levels and productivity directly reflect the effort you put into these basics. Mentally, we'll explore the value of continuous learning, staying open to new ideas, and building habits that support resilience and growth. And on the spiritual side, we’ll discuss ways to find meaning, purpose, and alignment in your life—how practices like gratitude, mindfulness, or connecting with your values can add depth and fulfillment to your journey.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, many businesses in Western North Carolina face unprecedented challenges. In this video, we dive into essential strategies for business recovery and resilience that you can implement today. Learn how to communicate effectively with your team, customers, and community, manage cash flow wisely, and prioritize strategic planning to navigate this difficult period. We'll explore actionable steps like securing funding, negotiating with suppliers, and leveraging partnerships to keep your business moving forward. Whether you’re looking for guidance on recovery or strategies to grow stronger in times of crisis, these tips will help your business adapt and thrive. Let’s rebuild together, one step at a time.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this, we sit down with Tyler West, a seasoned entrepreneur who has balanced running a successful construction business while pursuing his passion for cycling. Tyler shares his journey from working in the cycling industry to taking over his family business, and how he learned that your passion and your profession don’t always have to be the same. Discover valuable insights on entrepreneurship, finding balance, and why every business deal should be a win-win. Tune in for inspiring stories and practical business tips from a true entrepreneur.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this week's episode, Bill Gilliland hosts Justin Powell from Valor Private Wealth for an insightful discussion on driving business growth and financial planning.

    Justin shares valuable insights on working with business owners, highlighting the importance of aligning personal goals with business growth. He explains Valor Private Wealth's detailed financial planning process, emphasizing the significance of quarterly meetings and annual reviews.

    A key topic of the discussion is exit planning—how to prepare your business for a successful sale and utilize profits to secure a solid financial future. Justin also underscores the importance of business coaching and its crucial role in long-term success.

    In this episode, you'll also learn why Valor Private Wealth decided to sponsor the Asheville Business Summit and how networking events can transform a business's trajectory. Additionally, Justin offers valuable advice for new entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of patience and facing challenges with a positive attitude.

    Main Topics:

    Differences in working with business ownersDetailed financial planning processExit planning strategiesImportance of business coachingAdvice for new entrepreneurs

    Learn more about the Business Summit:

    Website: WNC Summit

    Don't miss this inspiring conversation that can transform how you run your business and plan your financial future. Watch now and subscribe to the channel for more inspiring episodes of Epic Entrepreneurs!

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In today's episode, your host Bill Gilliland sits down with Brett Halsey from Halsey Media Group to dive deep into the upcoming Asheville Business Summit.

    Join us as we discuss:

    -The wide range of local publications by Halsey Media Group and their impact on Western North Carolina.

    -The significance of the Asheville Business Summit for local business leaders and decision-makers.

    -How Halsey Media Group connects businesses with their target audiences through innovative marketing strategies.

    -The role of WNC Business Magazine as the premier media sponsor for the event.

    -Exciting details about the summit, including networking opportunities, giveaways, and special offers for attendees.

    Whether you're a business owner, manager, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips on how to take your business to the next level.

    📅 Event Details:

    Date: August 20th
    Location: Embassy Suites, Downtown Asheville
    Tickets and Information: WNCSummit.com

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • Today we have an enlightening conversation with Meredith Switzer from All Souls Counseling Center.

    In this episode, we dive into the incredible work being done by All Souls Counseling Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing quality mental health counseling to uninsured and underinsured individuals in Western North Carolina. Meredith shares the mission and impact of the center, emphasizing the importance of normalizing conversations around mental health and the extensive services they offer, including individual, couples, and group counseling.

    Subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories from real entrepreneurs, business tips to help you scale up faster, and actual coaching to achieve better real-world results

    Get your tickets for the Asheville Business Summit: wncsummit.com

    If you like this episode, give us a thumbs up, leave a comment, and share it with your friends. And remember, if you or someone you know needs mental health support, don't hesitate to reach out to All Souls Counseling Center.
    Enjoy the show!

    #EpicEntrepreneurs #MentalHealth

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • Join us in this insightful episode where we dive into the inspiring journey of Jeff Makey, founder of CLearn. Discover how Jeff transitioned from a career in construction to finding his true calling in education and training design.

    In this video, Jeff shares his experiences and lessons learned along the way, including the importance of niching in business, the power of continued education, and the role of passion in achieving success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, educator, or simply looking for inspiration, Jeff's story offers valuable insights and practical tips for personal and professional growth.

    Upcoming Event:

    Join us at the Asheville Business Summit for a unique opportunity to network with top entrepreneurs and learn from industry leaders. For more information and to register, visit wncsummit.com

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this episode, we're excited to be joined by Dave Kaverman from Acuity Mergers and Acquisitions.

    Dave shares his journey into the business of buying and selling companies, sparked by his own experience with selling a bookstore he started in 1992. He dives into the common mistakes business owners make when trying to sell their businesses, such as overestimating their value and not keeping the business running smoothly during the sale process.

    Dave also provides valuable insights for potential buyers, emphasizing the importance of due diligence and understanding the industry. He discusses his role as an intermediary, ensuring confidentiality and credibility throughout the transaction process.

    Tune in to hear success stories, learnings, and essential advice for anyone involved in buying or selling a business. Plus, get a sneak peek into the upcoming Asheville Business Summit on August 20, 2024, where you'll have the opportunity to network with industry leaders and gain valuable knowledge.

    Don't miss this informative and engaging episode! Subscribe to our channel for more expert insights and entrepreneurial success stories.

    Link:
    Get your tickets for the Asheville Business Summit: wncsummit.com

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this week's episode of Epic Entrepreneurs, join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Brad Currin. After a diverse career, Brad takes a bold step into entrepreneurship by acquiring and running a franchise in Western North Carolina. Discover the strategic insights and valuable lessons he's learned from moving to a new town, starting a business, and making a significant impact in the service industry.

    Tune in to gain valuable insights from Brad's experiences that can inspire and guide current and aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you're considering buying a franchise or looking to enhance your networking skills, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories.

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • Welcome to this week's episode. I'm your host, Bill Gilliland. In this episode, we're excited to feature Kensley Hendrix from Christie's Lighting.

    Join us as Kensley shares her unique journey into Christie's Lighting, where she now thrives in business development. Discover how she transitioned from a neighboring business to becoming an integral part of Christie's Lighting, a company known for its diverse product offerings and exceptional service in the building industry.

    In This Episode, You'll Learn:
    -Real stories from real entrepreneurs to inspire your journey
    -Practical business tips to help you scale up faster
    -Actual coaching strategies to improve your real-world results

    Upcoming Event:
    Join us at the Asheville Business Summit on August 20th! Learn from the world's top business coach, Brad Sugars, and network with over 300 businesses. Get your tickets at:

    WNCSummit.com

    Subscribe for More Episodes!
    If you enjoy our podcast, make sure to subscribe for more episodes filled with entrepreneurial insights, business tips, and inspiring stories.

    Thanks for listening! Until next time, all the best.

    #businesspodcast #entrepreneurship #actioncoach #smallbusinesssuccess #networking #businessdevelopment

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • Welcome to this week's episode of Epic Entrepreneurs, brought to you by Action Coach Growth Partners. I'm your host, Bill Gilliland, and in today's episode, we have a special guest, Holly Fisher, the first repeat guest on our show!

    Holly Fisher, owner of Fisher Creative Marketing and a StoryBrand Certified Guide, joins us to share valuable marketing tips. She explains the StoryBrand framework, a powerful tool based on classic storytelling principles that helps businesses clarify their marketing messages and connect with their audience.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Real stories from successful entrepreneurs.
    Business tips to help you scale faster.
    Actual coaching to improve your real-world results.

    If you want to refine your marketing message and attract more clients, this episode is for you!

    Remember to subscribe to our channel for more insights from entrepreneurs and business growth tips. Enjoy the show!

    #entrepreneurship #marketing #businesssuccess

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • In this episode, Jay shares his journey from a small 600-square-foot office to a rapidly expanding business licensed in South Carolina. Discover how Jay and his team have grown from 6 to 24 members and the leadership lessons they've learned along the way. Jay dives deep into the importance of team culture, the shift in his leadership philosophy, and how focusing on team empowerment has driven their success.

    We also discuss practical tips on finding great team members, the impact of marine training on leadership styles, and the power of a strong organizational culture. Plus, hear about the exciting expansion plans for Semper Fi Custom Remodeling and Jay's thoughts on continuous education and growth.

    If you're an entrepreneur looking for real stories, business tips, and actionable coaching to help you scale your business and achieve real-world results, this episode is for you.

    Thanks for listening, and until next time, all the best!

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill

  • Welcome to this week's episode of Epic Entrepreneurs, brought to you by Action Coach Growth Partners. Your host, Bill Gilliland, introduces an exciting opportunity for business owners and leaders in the Asheville area: The Asheville Business Summit.

    Join Beth Lemmel, she shares the journey and vision behind the Asheville Business Summit, set to take place on August 19-20 at the stunning Embassy Suites by Hilton Asheville Downtown. This event is designed for business owners, managers, and leaders who are eager to grow, learn, and connect with like-minded professionals.

    Early Bird Special:
    Take advantage of a 40% discount on tickets before June 14th. Secure your spot now and don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your business!

    For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: wncsummit.com

    Listen, Subscribe, and Share! Enjoy the show and make sure to subscribe for more inspiring stories and practical business tips. See you at the Asheville Business Summit!

    #business #leadership #entrepreneurship #businesssuccess #businessgrowth

    Thanks for Listening. You may contact me at https://billgilliland.actioncoach.com/

    All the best!
    Bill