The Best of LKN

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Kyle Cerminara, owner of Lake Norman Golf Club, and Gavin Arseneau, the club’s general manager, for a wide-ranging conversation about the rebirth of one of Lake Norman’s most talked-about golf properties. Kyle shares his journey to Lake Norman, his background in asset management, and why preserving and elevating the course—rather than developing it—was central to his vision. Gavin brings decades of experience turning around country clubs, including Rock Barn, Trump National, and elite coastal clubs, and explains how that long-term, steady approach is shaping Lake Norman Golf Club’s future. Together, they outline a clear philosophy for the club: affordable, casual, and elegant. The conversation covers planned course improvements, a village-style clubhouse, public dining options, membership strategy, and the broader impact the club will have on the Brawley Peninsula and surrounding communities. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how thoughtful ownership, experienced leadership, and a people-first mindset can transform a local landmark into a thriving, family-friendly community asset. Lake Norman Golf Club 185 Mallard Way Mooresville, NC 28117 (704) 664-7031 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Jen Campbell Boles, founder of Explore More Travel Co., for a wide-ranging conversation about intentional travel, customization, and building a relationship-driven business. Based in the Lake Norman area, Jen shares how her agency designs highly personalized trips—from Europe and Asia to safaris, cruises, and luxury resorts—by truly understanding how her clients like to travel. The conversation dives into river cruising, bucket-list destinations like Iceland and Japan, and why slowing down often leads to a better travel experience. Jen also pulls back the curtain on scaling a service business, delegating with intention, and what most people misunderstand about working in the travel industry. The episode wraps with details on the first-ever Lake Norman Luxury Travel Expo, happening Wednesday, January 14, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Cain Center. The free, community-focused event brings together luxury travel brands, cruise lines, and destination experts—all designed to inspire people to explore more. Learn more and register at LKNLuxuryTravelExpo.com or visit ExploreMoreTravelCo.com to follow Jen’s work and weekly travel inspiration. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

In this episode of The Best of LKN, Jeff sits down with Dr. Henry Wilson, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Lake Norman Plastic Surgery, to talk about his journey, his new practice, and why Lake Norman felt like the right place to put down roots. Dr. Wilson shares his path from Arkansas to Harvard and Vanderbilt, extensive surgical training along the East Coast, and leadership experience within large healthcare systems—before ultimately launching his own private practice in Huntersville. He explains why personalized care, direct physician involvement, and a patient-first experience were the driving forces behind opening Lake Norman Plastic Surgery. The conversation covers the full scope of services offered—from facial aesthetics and body contouring to breast reconstruction, skin cancer reconstruction, and non-surgical treatments like fillers and Botox—all performed directly by Dr. Wilson. He also discusses emerging trends in plastic surgery, including more natural results, fat grafting, advanced 3D imaging, and minimally invasive options. Dr. Wilson opens up about the realities of starting a medical practice, the unexpected administrative challenges, and the rewards of building something intentionally from the ground up. The episode wraps with a thoughtful discussion on what makes the Lake Norman region such a special place to live, work, and serve the community. Learn more about Lake Norman Plastic Surgery: 🌐 lknplasticsurgery.com 📍 Huntersville, NC (Kinsley Ave, near Novant Huntersville Hospital) If you’re interested in personalized, private aesthetic and reconstructive care—or simply enjoy hearing from professionals shaping the Lake Norman community—this episode is worth a listen. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

Paper Skyscraper has been a Charlotte favorite for decades—and now it’s officially part of the Lake Norman community. In this episode, Jeff sits down with Bill Godwin, owner of Paper Skyscraper, to talk about the brand’s long history, its cult-favorite status, and what inspired the opening of the new Davidson location. Bill shares how a shop he loved growing up became the most joyful business he’s ever owned, and why Paper Skyscraper has always been about more than just gifts. They dive into what makes the store so special—from 30,000+ thoughtfully curated products to deep partnerships with local and regional makers, including several right here in the Lake Norman area. Bill also opens up about his background in banking and finance, how that experience shaped his approach to customer service, and why “delighting the customer” is the guiding principle behind everything they do. The conversation wraps with a look at the Davidson opening, the importance of community involvement, and why the Lake Norman lifestyle feels like such a natural fit for the Paper Skyscraper brand. If you love local businesses, unique gifts, and places that simply make people smile, this is one you won’t want to miss. Paper Skyscraper - Davidson 610 Jetton St STE 110 Davidson, NC 28036 paperskyscraper.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

I sat down with Cheryl Luckett, founder and principal designer of Dwell by Cheryl Interiors, for a much-needed round two—this time in person after a tech issue cut our first conversation short. Cheryl’s story is a masterclass in the kind of disciplined pivot most people dream about but rarely execute. She grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and built a successful corporate career as a registered dietitian at a Fortune 500 company in Charlotte. She was good at it—really good—but over time she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was “faking the passion.” That honesty led her to explore a creative pull she’d felt for years, starting with a single design class at a community college. One class turned into a blog (launched January 1, 2012), which turned into real clients, and eventually a side business she couldn’t ignore. What stood out most was how intentional she was about leaving corporate. Cheryl created “Project 36,” a 36-month exit strategy that gave her time to build savings, tighten her systems, level up her marketing, and mentally let go of “security” before taking the leap on December 30, 2016. We also dug into what makes her work different: the belief that a beautiful home is the baseline—the process is the luxury. She shared her “home build trinity” approach (builder, architect, interior designer) and why designers aren’t just picking finishes—they’re protecting the end vision of how a home will actually be lived in. And when we hit design trends, Cheryl kept it real: forget chasing what’s “in.” Choose what you love, and you’ll never be out of style. Dwell by Cheryl Interiors dwellbycheryl.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

In this episode, Jeff finally sits down with Lake Norman marketer and serial entrepreneur Ryan Webber to talk about the real work behind great content—and why most small businesses are overcomplicating it. Ryan shares his journey from teacher and gym owner to running Webber Marketing and helping build The Real Estate Lawyer YouTube channel to nearly 100K subscribers with simple, value-first videos. Jeff and Ryan dig into why clarity beats clever branding, how FAQs and client stories can fuel an entire content strategy, and why an iPhone and a clear message usually beat overproduced, “flashy” video. They break down how consistent video builds awareness, trust, and easier sales conversations, plus the power of showing up on camera in the local community you serve. Ryan also shares his philosophy of giving away all the tips and selling the implementation—and his vision for local business masterminds that help owners grow together. @ryanwebbermarketing - Instagram @ryanwebber - YouTube Special mentions: @therealestatelawyer StoryBrand --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

In this episode of The Best of LKN Podcast, Jeff sits down with Matt Phillips, owner of Next Horizon Homes — one of Lake Norman’s most trusted renovation and custom-home builders. Matt shares his winding journey from Army flight medic to home-services entrepreneur, to now leading a Denver-based design-build firm known for transforming challenging lots, reimagining dated lake houses, and guiding clients through complex projects with clarity and confidence. He also dives into his new book, “Building Your Next Horizon,” a resource written specifically to help Lake Norman families understand the real math behind renovating vs. building new, what to look for in land, and how lifestyle should always drive design. Jeff and Matt unpack the realities of land scarcity on Lake Norman, the rise of teardown opportunities, and why truly great builders start with vision long before they talk numbers. Matt also shares his passion for community — from coaching local baseball to raising his family in Denver — and the craftsmanship, transparency, and relationship-first process that has shaped Next Horizon Homes into a local favorite for both major renovations and custom builds. Whether you're a homeowner, a real estate agent, or just fascinated by what it takes to build on one of the hottest lakes in the Southeast, this episode is filled with insight, great stories, and plenty of Lake Norman pride. Next Horizon Homes --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

In this episode, Jeff sits down with mortgage expert Matt Doyle of Guild Mortgage—a longtime Lake Norman local who grew up in Sherrills Ford and has watched the region transform over the past three decades. Matt shares his journey from studying marketing and economics at Appalachian State to becoming a top 1% loan officer and now the Sales Manager for Guild’s North Charlotte region. He opens up about the moment he realized how confusing the mortgage process can be for buyers and how that experience shaped his passion for full transparency, education, and empowering clients at every step. Jeff and Matt dive into today’s mortgage landscape—interest rates, market volatility, and the “Twilight Zone” era of ultra-low rates—as well as bigger conversations around home affordability, misconceptions fueled by HGTV-style glamor, and how buyers can realistically navigate their first purchase. Matt also highlights why Lake Norman remains such a desirable place to live, from its four true seasons to its balance of affordability, lifestyle, and economic opportunity. Whether you're a homebuyer, a real estate pro, or simply curious about where the market is heading, this conversation is full of clear insights and genuine local perspective. Matt Doyle | Guild Mortgage Text: 704-881-3308 IG: @mattdoylemortgage --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Adam Wilson, founder of Learn Music in Cornelius, to unpack the inspiring journey behind one of Lake Norman’s most beloved creative organizations. Adam shares how a childhood split between Charlotte and Southern California shaped his musical roots, how a leap of faith brought him back to the Lake Norman area, and why Cornelius felt like a place full of possibility. From teaching his first lessons in a borrowed room at Oak Street Mill to now serving more than 475 students each week, Adam reveals how Learn Music grew into a community cornerstone built on passion, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of local arts. Adam also opens up about Learn Music’s unique teaching philosophy, their performance-driven approach, and how programs like Learn Music Live and the Legends rock band experience are shaping young musicians well beyond the classroom. He shares updates on upcoming showcases, new programs for early learners, and his team’s ongoing commitment to making music accessible in partnership with the Cain Center for the Arts. Packed with local shoutouts, community pride, and a shared love for the Lake Norman region, this conversation highlights why Learn Music isn’t just a school—it’s a movement that continues to elevate and connect the local creative community. Learn Music 20823 N Main St F Cornelius, NC 28031 (704) 557-6941 Facebook + Instagram --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

In this episode of The Best of LKN Podcast, Jeff sits down with Ivan Besancon, Director of the brand-new Lake Norman Pickleball Club in Mooresville, to talk about the sport that’s sweeping the nation — and now thriving right here in Lake Norman. Ivan shares how the club came to life as part of the Lake Norman Clubs family — joining the region’s tennis and golf facilities under one growing banner. With six indoor courts, a full bar, lounge spaces, shuffleboard, and a lively atmosphere, this new facility was designed from the ground up to bring pickleball enthusiasts together year-round. Jeff and Ivan chat about the sport’s explosive growth, its surprising accessibility for all ages, and why it’s become one of the most social games around. Ivan also highlights how membership works, what guests can expect, and why the community response has been so enthusiastic since opening week. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about trying pickleball for the first time, this conversation will have you ready to grab a paddle and join the fun. Learn more by downloading the LNRC app or visiting Lake Norman Racquet Club to explore open play, lessons, and upcoming events. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

Jeff welcomes entrepreneur Caleb Hannon, founder of Lake Waste, for a candid look at how a hospitality mindset is reshaping residential and short-term rental trash service around Lake Norman. Caleb shares his winding path from marketing/hospitality/sports into “the trash business,” why he built a concierge-style, full-service pickup model for vacation homes, and how that expanded into reliable neighborhood service as legacy providers are exiting. They talk about community, word-of-mouth growth, partnerships for septic, junk removal, and portables, and what’s next—including a push toward recycling options. Lake Waste 132 Joe Knox Ave Ste 102b Mooresville, NC 28117 (704) 677-8807 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

Ken Brock, co-owner of RODTEES and Your Logo Wear, joins The Best of LKN podcast to share a 37-year journey in custom apparel—from San Diego roots to building a thriving fulfillment and branding shop here in Lake Norman. He and his wife, Kim, run a true one-stop operation: in-house screen printing, embroidery, laser engraving, leather-patch hats, stickers, and banners, plus print-on-demand and drop-ship services for artists, schools, events, and brands nationwide. Their car-culture niche helped seed an online engine that still powers the business today. Listeners will hear why the couple chose North Carolina in 2010, what they love about the seasons and small-business ecosystem here, and how serving local companies creates a built-in business network. Ken also talks shop—what’s hot now (hello, laser-engraved tumblers and patch hats), why they keep production in-house, and how thoughtful product ideas and social content spark win-wins for clients. Along the way, he reflects on family, travel-soccer life, and the “80% and go” mindset that’s guided their ventures. Want to connect or order? Visit rodtees.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

Jeff welcomes restaurateur Robert Maynard, and Chef Scott Liebfried - the team behind Fontana de Vino in downtown Davidson. Scott shares how his experience with the Four Seasons and California cuisine shaped his approach to hospitality and concept creation. Robert and Scott unveil Fontana de Vino - an Italian-forward, steak-friendly concept blending “old world meets new” with an approachable vibe. Expect hand-cut, house-made pastas, prime steaks, and lively table-side activations - including a communal polenta pour inspired by Tuscan family gatherings. The wine program is rooted in Italy’s regions. They also discuss affordability by design, staff comfort and service, and why they prefer a buzzing dining room to hushed “fine dining.” Set inside Davidson’s historic former ice house at 416 S. Main Street, the build-out journey was long - and full of lessons - but the mission is simple: create a place where families and friends gather, feel seen, and leave happier than when they arrived. Listeners will hear candid talk on reviews, margins, and resilience - and why community sits at the heart of hospitality. Fontana de Vino is aiming to open by the end of November. Fontana Di Vino --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake Norman’s #1 Podcast & Email Newsletter The Best of LKN https://thebestoflkn.com/ Hosted by: Jeff Hamm www.lknreal.com Support the show

Five years after appearing on the very first episode of The Best of LKN Podcast, Mike Ratnofsky of CrossFit Cornelius returns to share how his business and community have evolved. Since that podcast in 2020, C2 has transformed from a fitness studio focused on survival into a purpose-driven operation with clear systems, stronger leadership, and an even deeper connection to its members. Mike discusses stepping back from daily coaching to focus on strategy while longtime coach Robert Yates now leads as General Manager. The gym’s popular HybridFit program continues to thrive, offering a welcoming, 45-minute option alongside traditional CrossFit classes. New initiatives include individualized nutrition coaching built around the advanced Evolt 360 body-composition scanner and a six-week challenge that pairs fitness, nutrition, and accountability in a sustainable way. Listeners also hear about Strength Lab, a new strength-based program for women navigating peri- and menopause, developed in partnership with Renew Health & Wellness in Cornelius. The program blends strength training, holistic wellness, and hormone support in a practical, empowering way. At its core, C2 remains focused on relationships over contracts, personal growth over perfection, and creating an environment where every member feels known. Enjoy catching up with Mike in this episode! Learn more or book a free consultation at crossfitcornelius.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