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The Best of LKN

Business & Economics Podcasts

Welcome to The Best of LKN podcast! Here you’ll find a collection of interviews with the owners of Lake Norman’s favorite businesses. Small business is the heart and soul of a community, and The Best of LKN is here to shine a spotlight on the small...

Location:

United States

Description:

Welcome to The Best of LKN podcast! Here you’ll find a collection of interviews with the owners of Lake Norman’s favorite businesses. Small business is the heart and soul of a community, and The Best of LKN is here to shine a spotlight on the small businesses that are making the biggest impact here in the Lake Norman region of North Carolina.In addition to featuring exceptional small business owners, we’ll also be interviewing the most influential professionals that serve the LKN community. From bankers and realtors, to teachers and coaches, we look forward to introducing you to the best Lake Norman has to offer!We hope you enjoy these episodes. Thank you for following The Best of LKN!

Language:

English


Episodes
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395: Jenny Curran - My Gym Lake Norman

4/24/2026
Meet Jenny Curran, the brand-new owner of My Gym Lake Norman — the children's fitness center tucked into the plaza by the Harris Teeter on Sam Furr Road (yes, right by Birkdale, and yes, the parking is actually easy). Jenny shares the wild full-circle story of how she went from My Gym South Park director in her early twenties to buying the Lake Norman location when her baby daughter was literally five days old. We chat about everything the gym offers — parent-child classes starting at three months, ninja and gymnastics programs, sibling dual classes, the new Preschool Prep program, summer camps, those Friday Parents Night Outs we all desperately need, and birthday parties where the staff handles literally everything (cake service included). Plus, Jenny drops some serious wisdom from her five summers selling educational books door-to-door — a job that, it turns out, is excellent preparation for basically anything life throws at you. My Gym Lake Norman 16610 W Catawba Ave Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 689-4470 Book mentioned: Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success by Rory Vaden Support the show

Duration:00:33:49

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394: Jim Gordon - Inside Peninsula Prime

4/23/2026
In this episode, Jim Gordon, owner of Peninsula Prime in Cornelius, joins the podcast to share how 2025 became a pivotal turnaround year for the upscale steakhouse. After taking full operational control in January 2025, Jim and his wife Robin rebuilt the restaurant from the ground up — starting with aesthetics, modernizing systems and processes, and redefining the brand's identity. Jim opens up about the three pillars now guiding Peninsula Prime: hospitality, quality, and community. He shares how the book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara shaped his approach, why he spent six months listening to guest feedback before rewriting the menu, and how new GM Dawn Serens is helping elevate the entire team. Whether you're a longtime Peninsula Prime guest or new to Lake Norman, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn around a beloved restaurant — and do it with heart. Visit Peninsula Prime: 18665 Harborside Dr, Cornelius, NC https://www.peninsulaprimelkn.com/ The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm https://lknreal.com/ Powered by: https://aidawerks.com/ Support the show

Duration:00:44:51

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393: Mike Feehley - Lake Norman Luxury Real Estate

4/15/2026
Mike Feehley is a luxury real estate broker with Ivester Jackson Distinctive Properties, a Christie's International Realty affiliate, and a career firefighter and chief with the Charlotte Fire Department. In this episode, Mike shares how a spontaneous road trip to Charlotte at age 20 launched a dual career that now spans over two decades – 22 years on the fire department and 21 years in real estate, where he currently ranks in the top 250 agents out of 17,000 in the Charlotte area. He opens up about reverse-engineering his career around the lifestyle he wanted, surviving the brutal 2008–2010 housing crash, and the decade-long grind it took to land his first million-dollar transaction. Mike also talks about his move to Ivester Jackson five years ago and how the Christie's global network has opened doors to off-market luxury deals and out-of-state buyers relocating to Lake Norman. He makes a compelling case for the west side of the lake – particularly the Denver and Sherrills Ford areas – and shares his thoughts on what the northward expansion of Charlotte's light rail could mean for local home values. MIke Feehley | Ivester Jackson Christie's International Real Estate 350 Morrison Plantation Pkwy Suite C1 Mooresville, NC 28117 (704) 799-5233 https://mikefeehley.com/ Mike’s interview on the Epic Agents Podcast: https://epicagentspodcast.com/002-mike-feehley-real-estate/ The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm https://lknreal.com/ Powered by: https://aidawerks.com/ Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:36:23

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392: Matt Venuti - The AmeriCosmos Experience (Cain Center)

4/10/2026
Matt Venuti is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and national touring artist who began his musical journey as a trumpet player before discovering the electronic valve instrument (EVI) in a Boston jazz club. That chance encounter launched a decades-long career of exploring groundbreaking instruments – from the hang drum he sourced from makers in Bern, Switzerland, to Himalayan bowls and custom sound-scape instruments – which he layers live on stage using a sophisticated looper he operates with his feet. His touring career began about 16 years ago following the passing of his wife, an experience that drew him inward and shaped the deeply expressive, improvisational style he performs today. Matt will be bringing his AmeriCosmos multimedia experience to the Cain Center for the Arts in Cornelius, NC on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 (doors at 6pm, show at 7pm). The performance pairs live improvised music – performed on his full array of acoustic and electronic instruments – with a stunning visual reel of landscape footage shot across the United States, including national parks, canyons, and coastlines, alongside imagery from NASA's Webb telescope. His goal is to leave audiences with a sense of expansiveness and shared appreciation for the country's natural beauty. Learn more at mattvenuti.com or find him on social media at @mattvenuttimusic. Get Your Tickets Here! Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:25:54

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391: Karen Schmidt - Freshwater Shoppe on Brawley (Mooresville, NC)

4/8/2026
Karen Schmidt of Freshwater Design Build returns to the Best of LKN Podcast to share exciting news: Freshwater Shoppe, a retail design studio that opened in October 2025 on Brawley School Road in Mooresville. Located next to their full-service design and build studio, the shop brings the same high-quality upholstery, rugs, window treatments, and accessories Karen's team uses in their professional designs — now available to anyone, no full design engagement required. A team of professional designers is on hand to help with everything from furniture selection to bookshelf styling, and appointments are available for more in-depth consultations. Karen also shares a standout offer for Lake Norman realtors: a $300 Freshwater Shoppe gift card available for just $150, making it a creative and locally meaningful closing gift for clients settling into their new homes. The shop is open Monday–Friday 9–5 and Saturday 10–4, and now offers online shopping at freshwaterdesignbuild.com. Whether you're furnishing a new home, looking for styling advice, or just curious what's inside that beautiful new building on Brawley, Karen and her team want you to come see what they've built. Freshwater Shoppe Freshwater Design Build The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm https://lknreal.com/ Powered by: https://aidawerks.com/ Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:19:16

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390: Christy Martin - Boxing Legend & Survivor

4/4/2026
Boxing Legend Christy Martin on Surviving Domestic Violence and Building Christie's Champs Boxing legend and domestic violence survivor Christy Martin joins the podcast to discuss her nonprofit, Christie's Champs, and her whirlwind 2025 — which included the release of her biographical film Christy, starring Sydney Sweeney. Christy shares how the organization empowers survivors through practical support like laptop computers in boxing gyms, backpack drives, safe house visits, and helping victims transition into independent living. She also opens up about her personal mission to break the cycle of domestic violence, particularly for at-risk youth, and reminds listeners that abuse can take many forms — physical, financial, and emotional. Christy previews two upcoming Charlotte-area events: an appearance at the Charlotte FC match on April 4th and a fundraiser at Eleven Lakes Brewery on April 11th (1–7 PM), featuring the signature "Christy Martini" cocktail, raffles, and a portion of all sales benefiting Christie's Champs. She also reflects on her 2026 goals, including a stronger presence in the Charlotte community and continued work in her home state of West Virginia. To learn more or donate, visit christyschamps.org. The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm https://lknreal.com/ Powered by: https://aidawerks.com/ Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:19:50

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389: Joe Meehan - Optima Vita Consulting

4/1/2026
Jeff sits down with Joe Meehan, founder of Optima Vita Consulting, whose path to wellness coaching wound through pre-med studies, a professional basketball career in Switzerland, nine years coaching Division I ball at Bucknell University, and ultimately a master's degree in medical physiology and aging from the University of Florida School of Medicine. Joe shares how all of those experiences converged into a one-on-one wellness coaching practice built around four pillars – nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management – and why neglecting even one of them tends to unravel the others. The conversation quickly becomes a candid, practical deep-dive into sleep, as Jeff opens up about his own struggles and Joe walks through the science behind why late-night meals, sugar, alcohol, and blue light are quietly sabotaging recovery for so many busy professionals. Beyond the science, Joe outlines how Optima Vita's six-month programs work – combining personalized meal plans, tailored exercise protocols, and daily coaching support through a dedicated app – and why accountability and consistency matter just as much as having the right plan. He also shares quick-win nutrition tips, breaks down intermittent fasting, and touches on 2026 goals including helping 100 individuals transform their health and expanding corporate wellness partnerships. Joe will also be joining Jeff's monthly real estate luncheon as a guest speaker, bringing his peak performance insights to a room full of high-achieving professionals. Optima Vita Consulting Special thanks to: Ashley Richardson | Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm https://lknreal.com/ Powered by: https://aidawerks.com/ Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:38:50

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388: Stephen Grotz - Architecture, Renovation & Timeless Design

3/27/2026
Stephen Grotz, founder of Stephen Grotz Architecture PLLC, joins the podcast to talk about his path from Culpeper, Virginia to building a multi-state residential architecture firm. Stephen shares how his love of home design started early — sketching houses as a young child — and traces his career through firms in Chicago and Charlotte before launching his own practice two years ago. The conversation centers on a stunning full-home renovation on the south end of Lake Norman in Huntersville, a project Stephen led while serving as in-house architect at Simonini Homes. He walks through how the team reimagined the home's floor plan — transforming a dysfunctional P-shaped layout into a linear great room connecting the kitchen, dining, and living spaces with sweeping lake views and a long deck. Stephen details the creative and structural challenges involved, from navigating tight setback lines to marrying old and new construction seamlessly. Stephen also discusses the value of early collaboration between architects, interior designers, and builders; his in-house interior design division led by Kristin Stevens; and his philosophy of designing timeless homes that age gracefully rather than becoming dated. Stephen Grotz Architecture, PLLC Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter: The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm https://lknreal.com/ Powered by: https://aidawerks.com/ Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:51:24

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387: Alongside Families - Meet Meghan Macy & Mary Kay Portaro

3/25/2026
In this episode, Jeff welcomes Meghan Macy, COO of Alongside Families, and Mary Kay Portaro, board member and former staff volunteer, to share the story behind this Charlotte-based nonprofit. Founded in 2017 by Emily Kemmann, Alongside Families works to prevent unnecessary foster care placements by providing temporary child hosting and wraparound support for families in crisis — with a track record of 100% family reunification across 350 child hostings and nearly 5,000 nights of care. Meghan and Mary Kay walk through the real-life situations the organization steps into — from single moms facing medical emergencies to families experiencing homelessness — and explain how anyone in the Lake Norman area can get involved, whether by hosting, volunteering, championing through financial support, or connecting their church as a partner. To learn more or attend a free online interest meeting, visit alongsidefamilies.org. Special thanks to: Mary Kay Portaro Ivester Jackson | Christie’s Real Estate https://marykayportaro.com/ Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter: The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:28:26

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386: Real Massage LKN - Therapeutic Massage in Denver/Sherrills Ford

3/20/2026
Cindy and Eric are the husband-and-wife team behind Real Massage LKN, a new therapeutic massage studio located at 5206 Slanting Bridge Road in the Denver/Sherrills Ford area of Lake Norman. Cindy brings over two decades of experience as a massage therapist, having built and grown a successful practice in Myrtle Beach from 2007 to 2020 before relocating to the area and coming out of a brief retirement. Eric draws on a lifelong career in hotel management and hospitality to handle the business and operations side of the studio. Together, they've built a space from the ground up that prioritizes a calm, personalized experience — complete with a relaxation area overlooking a neighboring horse farm. Real Massage LKN sets itself apart by offering full hands-on time for every session, customized treatments designed by experienced therapists, and a membership model starting at $85/month that includes add-ons like cupping, hot stones, and assisted stretching. Cindy discusses the wide-ranging benefits of therapeutic massage — from improving range of motion and posture to calming the nervous system and managing overuse injuries — and shares her vision of building lasting relationships with clients in the community. Real Massage LKN 5206 Slanting Bridge Rd Denver, NC 28037 (704) 966-0303 Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter: The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:41:51

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385: Carol White - Impeccable Closets

3/18/2026
Carol White's road to owning Impeccable Closets wound through a corporate PR career at GTE/Verizon, a stint as a stay-at-home mom, and seven years managing sales and training at a big box organization retailer — where she discovered a passion for closet design. A chance conversation at a BNI meeting eventually led to a business partnership, and Impeccable Closets was born two weeks before COVID. She bought out her partner in 2022, opened her first showroom in Huntersville about a year ago, and is now celebrating six years in business alongside her husband Brian. The company designs and installs custom closets, pantries, laundry rooms, home offices, craft rooms, bars, and just about anything else you can dream up in a home — including, most recently, a two-story primary closet with 16-foot ceilings and a floor-to-ceiling sneaker gallery for a Charlotte-area pro athlete housing 265 pairs of shoes. Carol's approach is rooted in solution selling: she gets into the details of how clients actually use their spaces before a single shelf goes up. In 2026, the focus is on growth — expanding the showroom, adding designers and installers, and building systems that allow the business to scale beyond Carol being at the center of it all. Impeccable Closets 330 Seagle St Suite 22 Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 742-6046 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:38:14

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384: Sarah Conrad - Growth, Running & Women of Strength

3/13/2026
Sarah Conrad, owner of Clean Eatz Lake Norman, returns to The Best of LKN podcast to share updates on the brand's expansion to five Charlotte-area locations — Cornelius, Mooresville, Charlotte, and Concord — and what's new on the menu, from turkey burnt ends to lobster mac & cheese and a fan-favorite ramen dish. She also opens up about the risks of opening the Concord location post-COVID, how Clean Eatz serves the local NASCAR community through catering, and why stepping away from her phone during her daily runs has become one of her most important habits as a business owner. The conversation centers on Sarah's newest community initiative, Women of Strength — a 26-week campaign running January 4 through July 4, 2026, in which Clean Eatz gives away 26 free meals each week to a nominator and their nominee. By the end of the campaign, Sarah will have logged 676 miles and Clean Eatz will have given away 676 free meals. To nominate an inspiring woman in your community, email sarah@cleaneats.com or visit Clean Eatz on social media for the text submission line. The halfway point celebration lands on March 8 — International Women's Day. https://www.instagram.com/cleaneatzlakenorman/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:37:04

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383: Executive Women of Lake Norman - with Joanie Baker and Kellie Grutko

3/6/2026
Jeff sits down with Joanie Baker, President of Executive Women of Lake Norman, and Kellie Grutko, the organization's Director of Communications. Together they share the story of a group that's been connecting Lake Norman's women in business since 2010 — built not around leads and referrals, but around genuine education, mentorship, and community. With monthly socials and luncheons featuring guest speakers, a growing membership back in the 30s after COVID, and a flexible (not cutthroat) seat structure, Executive Women of Lake Norman is the kind of organization you actually look forward to showing up for. If you're a woman entrepreneur, founder, or professional in the Lake Norman area, this episode is worth your time. The group is actively welcoming new members and offers sponsorship opportunities as well. Find them at executivewomenoflkn.com, on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or reach out directly at executivewomenoflkn@gmail.com. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:26:21

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382: Charlene Ferrell White, DVM - Homeward Vet

2/27/2026
Jeff sits down with Charlene Ferrell White, a veterinarian with Homeward Vet, to discuss the growing demand for mobile, in-home veterinary care across Lake Norman and the greater Charlotte area. Charlene shares her path from Northern Virginia to NC State Vet School, followed by experience in emergency and general practices in Colorado and California, before discovering her passion for house-call medicine. The conversation highlights how mobile care creates a calmer, more personal experience for pets and owners alike—especially for busy professionals, work-from-home households, anxious dogs, and cats that struggle with traditional clinic visits. They also explore what sets Homeward Vet apart, including longer appointment times, concierge-level service, and comprehensive offerings such as wellness care, vaccinations, acupuncture, hospice, and end-of-life support. Charlene explains how pricing compares to brick-and-mortar practices, the convenience for multi-pet households, and Homeward Vet’s local partnerships, including referrals to Main Street Veterinary Hospital when advanced diagnostics or surgery are needed. The episode wraps with upcoming community events, service areas throughout Lake Norman and Charlotte, and how listeners can easily book appointments or follow Homeward Vet on social media. Homeward Vet @homewardvet_charlottenc | https://www.facebook.com/HomewardVetCharlotteNC Events mentioned: https://humanesocietyofcharlotte.org/pet-palooza/ https://www.tawbawalk.com/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:25:21

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381: Logan Sandate - The Carolina Factory

2/25/2026
Logan Sandate rejoins the podcast to share what's happened since her first appearance last summer. Girl Power Carolinas Flag Football launched its inaugural season in Mooresville with over 80 girls, wrapped up an eight-week fall run complete with Super Bowl rings and weekly core value awards, and has already expanded into Fort Mill, South Carolina. A Banner Elk league is on the way this summer through a partnership with Lees-McRae College coach Mike Brown. Logan has also taken on a new role as Director of Development at The Carolina Factory in Cornelius, where she's helping connect the facility's growing lineup of offerings including a brand-new girls AAU basketball team. Across everything she's building, Logan's focus remains the same: creating environments where girls can fall in love with sport without the pressure and burnout that come with early-age competitive pipelines. In 2026, she's prioritizing depth over expansion — doubling down on her Lake Norman and Fort Mill families to make sure the quality of the experience stays high. You can find Logan on Instagram at @CoachLoganSandate or through The Carolina Factory. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.aidawerks.com www.lknreal.com Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:00:29:49

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380: Garrett Tichy - Seemingly Overzealous Ice Cream

2/18/2026
Garrett joins The Best of LKN podcast to talk entrepreneurship, community, and how Seemingly Overzealous Ice Cream grew from a pandemic-era experiment into one of Charlotte’s most distinctive food brands. He shares his early days in SEO and agency life, what pulled him into coworking with Hygge, and why proximity to other builders was always the secret sauce—being close enough to ask questions, share ideas, and solve problems in real time. The conversation also digs into modern small-business marketing, especially the shift toward PR and relationships over shiny, overpromised tactics. Garrett makes the case for simple visibility: sending the email, sharing the update, and refusing to let good work quietly disappear. It’s a practical reminder that many businesses don’t struggle because they lack quality — but because they hesitate to talk about what they’re doing. From there, the focus turns to Seemingly Overzealous Ice Cream — how a shared love of ice cream became pop-ups, then a first shop at Camp North End, followed by Plaza Midwood, and now an expansion into Lake Norman. What sets the brand apart is intention: a joyful, experience-driven shop paired with ice cream that’s dairy-free, egg-free, and gluten-free across the board, without sacrificing texture or flavor. The goal isn’t an “alternative” — it’s ice cream anyone would choose. For Lake Norman listeners, the headline is clear: Seemingly Overzealous is coming to Davidson, with a target opening in May near Main Street. Expect the same playful energy, a neighborhood-specific mural, and a space designed to feel local from day one. Seemingly Overzealous @seeminglyoverzealous --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.aidawerks.com www.lknreal.com Thanks to Safe harbor Peninsula Yacht Club for their support! Support the show

Duration:01:01:09

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379: Mackenzie Murphy - Eternal Elegance Salon (Cornelius, NC)

2/12/2026
Meet Mackenzie Murphy of Eternal Elegance Salon in Cornelius, NC. Learn about her personalized salon experience, entrepreneurship journey, and upcoming Lake Norman events. In this episode, Jeff sits down with Mackenzie Murphy, owner of Eternal Elegance Salon in Cornelius, to talk about entrepreneurship, intentional beauty services, and building a client experience that goes beyond hair. Mackenzie shares how growing up in a family of entrepreneurs shaped her work ethic and inspired her to launch her own salon in 2023. Rather than creating a rushed, high-volume environment, Eternal Elegance focuses on personalized consultations, face and color analysis, and a custom “prescription” approach designed to deliver healthy, long-lasting results. The conversation explores: • Mackenzie’s journey into cosmetology and early business ownership • Why intentional client experience is the foundation of her salon • The partnership with Groomed and the elevated salon environment • Marketing, networking, and collaborating with local businesses • Launching Divine Links — her luxury hair extension brand • The importance of relationships and creating a safe, welcoming space • Future plans to expand spa-style services and salon experiences Mackenzie also talks about the personal side of entrepreneurship — balancing work with travel, fitness, and downtime — and why connection and care remain central to her vision. Listeners receive a special bonus: mention this episode when booking your first appointment to receive a complimentary treatment. And don;t miss the special event at Overflow! Thursday, 2/12 @ 4-8pm Learn more or book a consultation: Website: eternalelegance-salon.com Instagram/TikTok: @eternal.elegance.salon Phone: 704-928-7454 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

Duration:00:23:26

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378: Stephen Chuilli - Lagniappe Homes

2/5/2026
There's something special about meeting a builder who actually lives next door to his clients — and means it when he says, "We build it like we own it." In this episode, Jeff sits down with Stephen Chuilli, founder of Lagniappe Homes, to talk about his family's stunning mountain-style residence on Schooner Drive in Cornelius, the story behind the company name (it's a New Orleans thing — and yes, everyone mispronounces it), and what's trending in custom home design heading into 2026. What we cover: Lagniappe Homes 19440 Zion Ave Cornelius, NC 28031 (704) 750-0540 lagniappe-homes.com Video tour of a Lagniappe Home last year by Jeff: https://youtu.be/B-73UGSiyx0?si=XEupj4TTxeXWDVLa --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

Duration:00:44:57

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377: Living in Lake Norman - Cayce Blackley on Community, Small Business & Local Impact

1/30/2026
Some people grow an audience. Others grow a community. In this episode, Jeff sits down with Cayce Blackley—the creator behind the wildly popular Instagram account Living in Lake Norman—for a warm, honest, and genuinely fun conversation about what it really means to share local life with heart, consistency, and purpose. Cayce opens up about how the account started (spoiler: her husband secretly created it), how it grew organically to nearly 8,000 followers, and why championing small businesses has always been the heart of the page. What began as casual local sharing turned into a full-scale community platform—without losing its authenticity. They also share the now-legendary “worlds colliding” story of how Cayce recognized Jeff’s voice while he was bartending at Hop Town, long before the two officially met. It’s one of those Lake Norman moments that perfectly captures the spirit of this region—connected, unexpected, and a little magical. Beyond social media, Cayce talks about her full-time role in national wellness and accountability work, her passion for rescue animals, and why volunteering is a non-negotiable part of her life. From Lake Norman Humane to The Christian Mission, Rescue Ranch, and Deepwell Athletics, this episode celebrates the people and nonprofits quietly holding our community together. They wrap with a heartfelt reflection on what makes Lake Norman special in 2026—from its growing social scene to the relationships that make this place feel like home. This episode is about more than Instagram. It’s about showing up, sharing stories, and choosing to invest in the place we call home. Shout-Outs & Local Love Living in Lake Norman (Instagram)Hoptown Brewing CompanyLake Norman HumaneThe Christian MissionRescue RanchDeep Well AthleticsIf you’ve ever discovered a favorite restaurant, nonprofit, or hidden gem through Living in Lake Norman—this episode will feel like home. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

Duration:00:28:26

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376: Brooklyn South Pizzeria - A Lake Norman Staple

1/22/2026
In this episode of The Best of LKN, Jeff sits down with Craig and Lucy, the owners behind Brooklyn South, one of Cornelius’ most beloved local restaurants and a longtime staple of the Lake Norman food scene. Craig and Lucy share their journey from Long Island, New York, to Lake Norman, and the story behind opening Brooklyn South in 1998—long before Cornelius became what it is today. They reflect on the early days of the restaurant, the challenges of building a business in a growing community, and the importance of consistency, community, and customer experience. The conversation explores what’s made Brooklyn South a repeat winner of Lake Norman’s Best Pizza, the role of long-tenured staff, and why word-of-mouth has always been their most powerful form of marketing. Craig and Lucy also discuss their other local concepts, Brooklyn Boys and Novanta Pizzeria Napoletana, including the inspiration behind each and the lessons learned from expanding—and later refocusing—close to home. They close by reflecting on nearly three decades in business, the strength of the Cornelius community, and what longevity really means as local restaurateurs. Brooklyn South Pizzeria 19400 Jetton Rd # 201 Cornelius, NC 28031 (704) 896-2928 https://www.brooklynsouthpizzeria.com/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

Duration:00:41:51