Made In Mississippi

In this episode of the Made in Mississippi podcast, host Shelly Janous interviews Dr. Lance Dillon, a passionate dentist with an inspiring career journey. Dr. Dillon delves into the importance of family support, the evolution of cosmetic dentistry, and how technology, particularly artificial intelligence, is transforming the dental field.

In this episode of the Made in Mississippi podcast, host Shelly Janous interviews Paula Jackson, the owner of Jackson Street Gallery in Ridgeland and at the Mulberry in Vicksburg. Paula shares her journey of selling original art for over 25 years and her deep pride in representing Mississippi artists. Highlighting the abundance of local talent, she discusses the importance of nurturing young artists and the personal connections she's formed with the artists she represents. Paula also speaks about her gallery locations, the significance of building relationships, and the unique experiences offered at both galleries. Tune in to learn about the vibrant art scene in Mississippi and the inspiring story of Jackson Street Gallery.

Join Shelly as she hosts Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture, Andy Gipson.  The Mississippi State fair will open October 3rd and go through Columbus Day, Monday October 14th. You don't want to miss it!  Learn the details that include all the events, live music,  food, fun, and fellowship to be had by all. For additional information, visit the official website-  https://www.msstatefair.com

Gia Matheny, Director of Community Development for the City of Hernando, talks about popular festivals in Hernando. Shelly & Gia discuss the details of the events and marketing tools used to promote each event.  Gia also shares her wisdom & experience with community leaders across the state to spark ideas and opportunities for Economic Development.

In this episode of the Made in Mississippi podcast, host Shelly Janous interviews Brett Kenyon, also known as Papa Mississippi on TikTok. Brett shares his personal journey from Pittsburgh to Mississippi, his unexpected love for the state, and his diverse career experiences. Shelly and Brett also explore the strong sense of community in Mississippi and the joy of discovering its hidden gems. The episode captures the essence of celebrating and promoting Mississippi through storytelling and social media.

In this episode of the Made in Mississippi podcast, host Tanner Bennett interviews Dr. Nelson, a board-certified ophthalmologist and owner of Southern Eye Center. Dr. Nelson shares his journey from growing up in Yazoo City, Mississippi, to becoming an ophthalmologist and innovator in eye care. He discusses the advanced technologies and procedures offered at Southern Eye Center, including LASIK and light-adjustable lenses, and how they have improved patients' lives. Dr. Nelson emphasizes the importance of building a strong, values-driven team and staying current with medical advancements.

This episode features an enlightening conversation with Angie Stevens, Owner of White Oak Realty in Amory, Mississippi. Join us as we delve into her journey in the real estate industry, from agent to business owner, and insights on building a successful team. Angie opens up about her favorite business moments and the challenges of educating the public on the benefits of homeownership. Our chat ends on the significance of community and nurturing relationships for business prosperity.

Joining us today is Annie Squire, the trailblazing owner of Crumbl Cookies in Mississippi. Hear about the origin of Crumbl, why she and her partners chose to bring a new exciting franchise to Mississippi, and the importance in establishing your business within the community. Stay tuned till the end of the podcast to find out how to get a FREE SWEET TREAT in Flowood, Madison, Tupelo, Oxford, and Meridian!

You don't want to miss this inspiring story of how Johnny and his best friend Brandon teamed up to create great coffee for a great cause! Tanner interviews the owners of Johny Packer Coffee Company, a local coffee delivery service that provides fresh roasted coffee of many varieties strait to your door. The only thing better than the coffee is the mission behind it. Johnny Packer Coffee owner John Packer has suffered from Cystic Fibrosis his entire life, so he dedicated his life to helping raise money for Cystic Fibrosis research through his business venture johnnypacker.net

Tanner interviews Angela Mitchell, Director of External Affairs for the Mississippi Children's Museum. The Museum has been voted in the Top 3 Children's Museum in the Nation, and is a major attraction to visitors all around the world. We discuss her new role, the history of the Museum, the importance of play-based learning for children, and all the upcoming events this year! 

Tanner talks to Dana Robertson, Owner and CEO of True Rest Float Spa in Starkville, Mississippi. Dana and her husband Steve Robertson took a leap of faith and followed their passion for health and wellness by bringing a new innovative therapy treatment option to their hometown of Starkville, MS. In the podcast, Dana reveals what Float Therapy is, what are the benefits of it, and why you don't have to wait to follow your dreams!

In this episode of Made in Mississippi, host Tanner Bennett talks with Jennifer Hopping, the Regional Excutive Director for the American Heart Association. Jennifer discusses the work of the American Heart Association in Mississippi, highlighting key initiatives including programs and policy changes aimed at improving heart health across the state. She shares experiences from her 16-year tenure with the organization and tells a poignant story about one heart-transplant recipient's journey. Find out about upcoming events, how volunteers can get involved, and ways in which the AHA is using their resources to effect change and save lives.

This week on the Made In Mississippi Podcast, I interview Cynthia Sutton, President of the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, and Visitors Bureau. Cynthia talks about the beautiful and booming town of Ocean Springs, why the community is excited to work with Made In Mississippi, and why it's Important to have an active chamber of commerce/Main Street Organization that communities support!

Made in Mississippi is proud to announce that Tanner Bennett will be our new host for our podcast.  He has actively travelled the state and met so many entrepreneurs and community leaders. In todays podcast, Shelly Janous interviews Tanner to talk about his journey, his personal and professional growth, and exciting new adventures for 2024.

Join Shelly as she visits with Dr. Samuel (Sam) Jones about Leadership and Transforming your life through change.  Dr. Jones is an inspirational leader & entrepreneur who embodies Hard Work, Perseverance, Gratitude & Faith. 

Think you know everything there is to know about Mississippi?  Then, you are in for a treat.  2 Teachers with a love of Mississippi have published a fantastic book about everything Mississippi- from day trips, eating, shopping, culture, music & entertainment.  Be sure to find a book signing near you!  Follow Brandi and Dori at Backroads and Burgers and 100 things to do in Mississippi before you Die!

Made in Mississippi is so fortunate to have partners around the great state of Mississippi!  Shelly and Daniel Lang, Director of Economic Development, Flowood, have a candid conversation about all that goes into creating a robust economic development plan.  The Key? Planning,  Partnerships, & Patience!  It takes everyone working toward the same goal! 

Everyone has a story.  Martha Donaldson McCarty has brought her story to life as she tells of her childhood in Laurel, Mississippi.  Mary has a gift for listening to stories told by others, and using her gift to also tell others stories. Join her each Friday afternoon (after she gets her hair done) on her facebook business page- Martha Donaldson McCarty THE STORYTELLER.  As Mississippians, we will all recognize and relive our best memories with the inspiration she shares. 

"I was fortunate to have the opportunity to have today's guest, Joel Bennett, give me a tour of Hotel Henderson, a phenomenal economic development project in downtown New Albany, MS.  He is a great storyteller, a creative entrepreneur, and an even better person.  It's amazing how one person can create excitement and a great economic impact for their community. "

Boots and More is celebrating its 40-year anniversary in October!  What better time to interview Jess Knight and learn the secret to Boots and More's Success.  A great interview on giving your clients the gift of an experience.  Mr. Wright left a legacy to his family.  He created a culture that matched his motto: "Top Notch Service at Rock Bottom Prices!"  Check them out at Bootsandmore.net

Our guest today is a familiar face- Steve Azar- the Music & Culture Ambassador of Mississippi.  Steve is also the author of "One Mississippi", the Official state song of Mississippi.  We are so excited to collaborate with him and "One Mississippi" as part of our weekly podcast. Steve is an award-winning singer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer.  Steve also hosts his own radio show on Super Talk MS- "In a Mississippi Minute with Steve Azar

J Parkerson Jewelers, located in College Park in Starkville, MS is more than just a Jewelry Store... It's an experience.  Jamie started his career with the Jeweler's Bench at the age of 19.  During his 30 plus years of hands-on experience, he also acquired his Graduate Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America.  Any time you talk to Jamie, you will find a recurring theme of the importance of relationships.  Jamie always says, "I have always strived to treat people the same way I would want to be treated. "J Parkerson Jewelers has a huge collection of beautiful diamonds and jewelry, does jewelry repairs, and Jamie specializes in custom and heirloom designs. 

Join Shelly as she interviews Christe' McKenzie, owner of The Vault Salon on the brick streets of Clinton.  Nicknamed "The Hairapist", Christe' inspires her team, her clients, and her community with the gift of encouragement.  She took  time to find the "perfect" location and team.  One day at a time, unrushed, in God's timing, she began her journey in entrepreneurship!  It is so exciting to see what she has, and is continuing to accomplish, and I believe it is because it is her spirit of connectivity and community! 

It's an exciting time at the Hattiesburg Country Club! Listen as Shelly Janous & Carter Calloway discuss the importance of Team Work! It's vital to your business to foster a positive work environment, empower your team, create a sense of unity, and have a vision that inspired your team! 

Will Dottley grew up in the Mississippi Delta.  He had the opportunity to play golf at University of North Carolina.  Then, he played internationally on the PGA tour.  A natural born entrepreneur, Will is now back in Mississippi raising his family, coaching golf at MRA, and is involved in his family's company that is 4 generations strong.   When starting Screen Kings, Will listened to the needs of his customers and created a business model focused on a customized experience.   With an in-house graphic designer,  private labels and online stores for individual companies, Screen Kings is a one stop shop for quality and affordable specialty items with an emphasis on a quick turnaround time! 

This is a fun interview with siblings who own a multi-generational business that has survived and thrived in MS since the 1940's. Listen as Shelly discusses Fleetway Market's company values and a culture of excellence. Daniel & Emily care about their employees and the communities they serve.  This is a story that demonstrates that change is inevitable, but key foundational truths will stand the test of time.  

Join Shelly as she visits with Dr. Samuel (Sam) Jones about Leadership and Transforming your life through change.  Dr. Jones is an inspirational leader & entrepreneur who embodies Hard Work, Perseverance, Gratitude & Faith. 

Beans & Bananas is a brick-and-mortar retail market designed to foster a community- focused approach to sustainable living in the Belhaven community.  Beans & Bananas is a unique one-stop shop for everything from birthday gifts to all things locally made. 

Our guest today is a familiar face- Steve Azar- the Music & Culture Ambassador of Mississippi.  Steve is also the author of "One Mississippi", the Official state song of Mississippi.  We are so excited to collaborate with him and "One Mississippi" as part of our weekly podcast. Steve is an award-winning singer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer.  Steve also hosts his own radio show on Super Talk MS- "In a Mississippi Minute with Steve Azar

It's an exciting time at Made in Mississippi!  Join Shelly as she kicks off Season 14 with an update on all things Made in Mississippi. For more information, visit us at www.madeinmississippi.com.  Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @MadeinMSmedia

Laura Johns tells a powerful story about her journey in entrepreneurship.  She gives great insight on the importance of setting priorities, recognizing the seasons of your life, and seasons in the life of your business.  In addition, she shares about strategies and systems that helped The Business Growers reach over a million dollars in sales in the first 13 months! It's amazing how much has changed since she interviewed with Casey a few short years ago.  It is also very exciting and should give you hope as you continue your journey in entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Shelly sits down with Jennifer Welch do discover how Summit in Belhaven is helping create an enviorment to inspire creativity and connection for members to succed on their business journeys and their lives. At Summit, they are redifining the way people think about coworkin with a mix of communial spaces, private offices, dedicated desks, on-demand conference rooms, and more.  

William Chism grew up in Ridgeland & graduated from St. Andrews. He then attended and graduated from Yale and did the "Wall Street thing".  After being accepted and completing one year at Harvard, he took a voluntary "break" and moved back to Mississippi. Why? In the 2020 election, Mississippi stamped their overwhelming support with over 70% in favor of the Medical Cannabis ballot initiative. What does this mean for Mississippians?  What does this mean for Mississippi? Listen as William and Shelly have a candid conversation about the Cannabis industry in Mississippi. For additional information and/or education... follow River Remedy on facebook and instagram.  You can also visit www.RiverRemedyMS.com

Join us today as we talk to Stephanie Higginbotham, CPA, PLLC from Laurel, MS.   What a neat story to show the importance of developing a Niche Market in any profession... even Accounting!   Listen as she talks about growing in her profession vs. her personal life and family. Listen as she then explains how she found a work/life balance!     Once you find YOUR work/ life balance, how can you maintain it?  Ask yourself... What do I really want to do?  Then back into it, and figure out how to do it your way.  Stephanie has an inspiring story on how she did just that.

We never know what part of our story is going to change the life of someone else.  Listen as Elizabeth Casano shares her journey from leaving the "corporate world" to becoming a successful Entrepreneur. Mom.  Author.  Enneagram Coach.  Speaker.  On this week's episode, Elizabeth shares her secrets to success. Make plans to attend the inaugural Connect Mississippi Women's conference in Cleveland, MS.  November 11th- 13th.  Connect Mississippi was created to bring women together to use their talents & gifts to make a difference in the great state of Mississippi. For me details and to purchase your tickets, visit ConnectMISS.com

In this episode, Elizabeth Minchew of Buff City Soap shares her story of success.   We discuss the power of connection, and the importance of community.  She also shares her secret ingredient to increasing revenue by creating a customized experience for each customer.  Coming soon... the opening of 2 new stores in Mississippi.  Follow them on Facebook and Instagram- Buff City Soap- Jackson, MS. 

Excited to Kick off Season 13! Join Erin as she interviews Mississippi's Commissioner of Agriculture about Genuine MS- The very best of everything Grown, Raised, Crafted and Made in Mississippi. You may be surprised to learn how Genuine MS can benefit you or your small business!  The Commissioner also encourages everyone to visit the 163rd Mississippi State Fair.  This years dates are October 6-16, 2022. For more information: https://www.mdac.ms.gov/fairgrounds/ms-state-fair/  

Coming soon- A new interview with Erin Fults to give us an update since the original episode.  Replay- June 15, 2020-  On this episode of Made Mississippi, Casey talks with Clinton, MS native Erin Fults about how she went from taking a few photos for family friends in high school to owning her own business that offers brand consultation in addition to her professional photography service. She also talks about how her creative instinct helped her discover her love for running a business.

This weeks Podcast is a replay from when Casey interviewd Laura Johns of The Small Town Creative. This name may sound familiar if you have listened to the podcast before. Laura has given some great advice on tackling social media and branding at the end of a lot of our episodes. We are excited to have Laura share her story.

As Made In Mississippi continues to transition, here is a replay of another fan favorite episode. Marlo Kirkpatrick is a professional storyteller who found her skill of writing. One of the unique things that Marlo does is that she helps businesses tell their story. Listen in to hear Marlo share about the importance of stories for businesses. As a writer, one of her favorite things is seeing ordinary people do extraordinary things. If you want to learn more, look at kirkpatrickporchcreative.com 

Since this episode aired in May, 2018, Robert St. John has revitalized a community and created a catalyst for economic development in Mississippi's capital city.  St. John is one of the managing partners of the development that includes The Capri, The Pearl Tiki bar, and the Highball Lanes restaurant, bar, and 10-lane bowling alley.  St. John's story is a testament to the wisdom and insight of entrepreneurship in Mississippi.

This episode marks the beginning of a new Era for Made In Mississippi. Casey Combest hosts a fun interview with Shelly Withers Janous.  Janous is originally from Starkville, MS and is a successful entreprenuer in Clinton, MS. Listen as they talk about her career, and the persistence, hard work and faith that has prepared her for "such a time as this"- Esther 4:14. Casey finishes the episode with a big reveal about the future of Made in Mississippi. 

For this episode of Made in Mississippi, we turn the tables and hear from Casey Combest, owner of Blue Sky Studios and founder of the Made in Mississippi podcast. Casey sits down with Erin to talk about how he got his start and how to build a business that's the right size for your goals. Casey also shares how he learned that that success doesn't always look like building a bigger team. 

Wyatt Waters started painting as a young child and hasn't stopped since. Listen in as he shares the story of the path he took to turn his love of painting into a successful enterprise.

Lucy Schultze runs Red Window Communications in Oxford, Mississippi. Red Window's goal is to be the agency that helps better align a client's real-life message with their online message. In this episode, we speak about the power of relationships, the unique way Lucy started Red Window, and the value of having the next generation involved in your business. 

Jon David Cole started working at The Country Squire during grad school with no aspirations to become an entrepreneur. Listen in to his story of how in an unexpected turn of events he bought the business and has grown it to be known worldwide.

Paul Lavallee of Lavallee Electric joins this episode of Made in Mississippi. Paul sat down with Erin to share about what got him started in the electrical business and how Lavallee Electric has grown today. He also breaks down the importance of leveraging the skills you have and building on them so you can aim for growth no matter your industry.

Dr. Lee Gary and Dr. Wendy Lewis join the Made In Mississippi podcast on this episode. They share what it's like to build a truly unique experience that customers look forward too, in a field that typically brings A LOT of anxiety for customers. Wendy and Lee also share about putting the customer experience first, their lessons learned, and what it takes to enjoy the journey of entrepreneurship in Mississippi. 

Vince Vavrunek is now building his second business after selling his first. Listen in to hear what drove him toward entrepreneurship in the first place and the decisions he made along the way to build a business that he was able to sell. 

On this episode, Marilyn Tinnin and Katie Eubanks join us to discuss 20 years of Mississippi Christian Living. Marilyn and Katie discuss how Katie came to own the brand, and how it has changed over time. Listen in to hear more, or check them out at www.mschristianliving.com or Facebook.com/mschristianliving

Rina White joins us on this episode to share about her journey to entrepreneurship through the acquisition of an already existing, stable business with a platform holding potential for expansion. Rina desired to be an entrepreneur, but she did not have a start up idea or team. By following an acquisition route, she was able to "de-risk" entrepreneurship. Listen in to hear more about her path to owning Laundry South. You can check out her business at www.laundrysouth.com