The Community

Swilled Dog is a majority woman-owned, leading craft beverage producer providing the Southeast with quality, approachable beverages that are flavorful & refreshing. While crafting delicious beverages, they also aim to make a significant impact for our favorite animal causes. At Swilled Dog, the ciders and ready to drink cocktails are trail, sand, and cliff ready, while our small batch craft spirits and infusions are perfect to sit back and relax after a day of play. From the mountain to the beach and everywhere in between, Swilled Dog is Best Served with Adventure. Visit their tasting room to enjoy the full Swilled Dog experience in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia: 28 Pendleton County Industrial Park Rd | Upper Tract, WV 26866. Phone: (304) 358 - 0604 Email: info@swilleddog.com Tasting Room: Fridays, 2 - 8pm & Saturdays, 12 - 8pm

Back in 2005, the Finn Family moved to West Virginia to start this incredible journey for a place for family restoration, where boys can enjoy school again, and all can experience positive family values - It wasn't all sunshines and rainbows at the inception; or even roads to the property. Chestnut Mountain Ranch modeled their vision after the 25+ year program called Eagle Ranch. Located in Georgia, Eagle Ranch is nationally recognized as one of the best programs in the country, and has been featured on notable programs such as CNN News. Now CMR is on a 225 225 beautiful acres outside of Morgantown, WV - A Christ-centered safe haven for boys and families in crisis. The story from beginning of CMR to today is inspirational, even though at one point everything seemed impossible. Visit cmrwv.org for more information on how to get involved ! Check out their newest video about the Ranch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFZwN0NvMng

Morgantown, West Virginia has been growing like a weed for the past few decades - But what all goes into it? Why have people been flocking to the area and what are the overall benefits? This week, Zech and Aaron sit down and talk with Jeffery Arnett, one of Monangalia County Commissioners and owners of Arnett Law, to discuss the inner workings of Morgantown's growth in commercial and residential development as well as the red hot real estate market. They break down some of the anomalies in the North Central West Virginia real estate and what you should know in certain situations. If you are in commercial developing or real estate industry, don't miss this episode !

Everybody notices the house on the side of the road that could use a pressure wash. This week, Aaron an Zech sit down and talk with Joey Voithofer, the operations manager at Morgantown's Window Butler, and discuss the ins and outs of commercial and residential window cleaning. They get the scoop on the business' (and Joey's) personal history and discuss the importance of keeping the squeaky appearance of any building.

What is a botanic garden, anyway? Zech and Aaron sit down with Philip Smith, executive director at the West Virginia Botanic Garden, and get the scoop. Philip talks shop on the variety of plant life they support — including some of the state's rare virgin timber — as well as the future of the garden and their upcoming events center.

This week, Aaron and Zech take a hard dive into the world of fine dining. Sponsored by this week's guest, "The Intangible Ingredient" shines its spotlight on Noah Meyers, the executive chef at Stefano's in Morgantown, and his industry insight that spans for more than a decade. Aaron gets a chance to talk shop about his own restaurant expertise, and Zech takes a stab at the dessert menu.

Zech and Aaron take some time to talk to Dr. Ivan Misner, the father of BNI, and explore the history of his international referral marketing success. Dr. Misner talks about places he's been — Antarctica, to be specific — as well as the places he and the industry are headed in the future.

We're chatting about the ocean today - but no need for a swimsuit or sunscreen. This is an ancient ocean in West Virginia. The Iapetus Ocean! Zech & Aaron are on the Mic with Joe Woods. Owner of Appalachian Mercantile (General Store & Cafe). Joe tells us about the Iapetus Ocean, J. Q. Dickinson Salt-Works and the unique business opportunity this brought to Morgantown, WV. Info On The Iapetus Ocean Appalachian Mercantile J.Q Dickinson Salt

Zech & Aaron sit down in the office of Sparks Productions — a full service Morgantown video production company that's spent the last couple years thriving. Company founder Anthony Sparks shares his industry insights and predictions for the future alongside co-producer Jeffrey Boggess and intern Seth Nardo. With almost a decade of small business ownership under his belt, Sparks preaches the importance of client relations and the key to successfully staying afloat in a wave of rapidly evolving technology.

Episode 2 - A look into the unknown side of Morgantown. Zech & Aaron are on the mic with Geoffrey Fuller and Sarah James McLaughlin. Geoff and Sarah take us through a true crime discussion of the happenings associated with the murder of Mared & Karen. A time when GPS wasn't on every device, ring doorbells didn't exist, and social media didn't give us nearly instant updates on people's adventures and whereabouts. Geoff & Sarah have dedicated years and years into their work and have laid out much of their findings in their new book, "The WVU Coed Murders Who Killed Mared And Karen?" More info at: https://www.coedmurders.com/

Zech & Aaron are back for a new 2022 season! Kicking off the year with Dave McCormick of Omega Commercial Interiors. The McCormick name has a lengthy history in the West Virginia furniture business. Not always in the commercial arena however. Zech & Aaron chat with Dave about the growth of his (Co-Owned with Peggy Lovio) company, Omega Commercial Interiors. Dave is a true WV entrepreneur with a successful and growing business. Dave attributes that success to treating people fairly and not being afraid to make mistakes. On a side note, they'll chat about Aaron's new kayak and brief outro to 2021.

Zech & Aaron are on the mic with Morgantown's Chief of Police: Eric Powell. Powell has spent 20+ years serving the Morgantown Community and as of early 2021, he serves as the COP. Powell provides some insight on impact his department has on the area, practical tips for staying safe (especially during the Christmas season). We'll also hear about the "Coffee With A Cop" program. Where citizens can enjoy some face-to-face time with a local officer for some direct connectivity.

On this episode, Paris Winfrey, Morgantown's Experience Coordinator for the Ascend WV programs, chat with Zech & Aaron about the ins and outs of the Ascend program and the generosity of Brad and Alys Smith who made this all possible. 7000 plus applications and only 50 initially selected individuals awarded the opportunity to participate in the newly established remote worker program. They also had a brief conversation with one of those individuals on what attracted him to come back - the $12k was just a bonus on-top of all WV has to offer. https://ascendwv.com/

After a brief break to get caught up with real estate work, Zech & Aaron are back on the mic! They are chatting with Chirag Desai & Edmund Wagoner. Co-founders of Wagoner | Desai, PLLC in Morgantown, WV. From oil and gas litigation to injury cases, they seek to represent their clients with a people-first approach. Always keeping the clients goals top-of-mind. Moreover, we learn about Chirag's pursuit and accomplishment of the "American Dream" and the opportunities / freedoms we are quickly failing to appreciate.

It's an International Podcast Day - BONUS Episode feature a special guest - JFlow - John Flowers! Zech & Aaron are talking to WV Super Star, John Flowers. He made time to fit in a podcast 2 days before heading to Uruguay. He's a hardworking, self-driven individual with an entrepreneurial spirit. He's found great success in professional basketball and is aiming to put is sights on a blooming career in real estate. They'll finish out with some fun facts - 100 ways to cook and egg? Special thanks to this episodes sponsor, Sparks Productions in Morgantown.

Zech & Aaron are on the mic with Brent, owner of Sportsman's Emporium (and sponsor of today's episode) right here in Morgantown, WV (on Greenbag Road). They'll chat about the locally owned and operated Sportsman's shop and later be joined by Oliver Classen. Oliver is an avid outdoorsman with a passion for conservation. So much so, that he started the WVU Back County Hunters & Anglers (BHA) chapter and currently serves as President for the chapter. He has a lot to share - so much so that we'll have a part 2 coming soon!

We're on the mic with Loren and Erica Metzner, owners of & Yoga. They're all about helping you find that space in your day to be organically you. Whatever it is you do or where you are "and yoga". They are right here in Morgantown, WV at the Suncrest Towne Centre. We touch on the being part of the community, "yuj", yoga, their community wall, and have some good laughs!

We're at Dayspring Camp Ground in Shinnston, WV. We are chatting with Curt Moore on his work with IMPACT WV. Curt is a Short-Term Missions Specialist with MNA (Mission to North America). IMPACT focuses on helping the widow, orphan and others with needs. Curt's work takes place throughout the country and part of that work brings him to West Virginia 1-2 times per year. Curt also has his own podcast starting up soon, "The Rabbit Hole Recordings - Stay tuned for that!

On this episode, Zech & Aaron are chatting with Mallory Moholt (aka, Mal) with Mal's Fresh Produce. They'll touch on alien life insurance, the first use of the bleep button, and the success she's accomplished through many long long days of selecting produce, coordinating with farms, hours on the road and plenty of face-time with customers. It doesn't always require thousands of dollars to start and grow your own business and Mal is an example of that!

On this episode, Zech & Aaron are chatting with Lauren Kayal. Lauren is the owner of the SUGAR BAR - Sweets + Coffee in Morgantown, WV. Sugar Bar is one of the many restaurants under the HARMA umbrella which is owned by Lauren's husband Bron Kayal. We chat about the variety of eateries - especially the Sugar Bar. What it means to work in the service industry and what gave HARMA the edge to reimagine the industry and both succeed and grow during a slowdown.

We're chatting with Melissa Hornbeck & Stephanie Lemley. The Morgantown Board of Realtors® (MBOR) past and current presidents. Getting a behind the scenes look at some of the things that MBOR does to support and build our community. Both of these individuals have dedicated numerous years of volunteer service and have been great examples in our community.

Zech & Aaron are onsite at Nonno Carlo's, talking with owner, Nick DeMedici. Nonno Carlo's is a new Italian Market & Deli in Morgantown. Specializing in grab-and-go style food, including, Neapolitan Pizzas made onsite in their wood-fired oven! Nick chats with us about his journey through life that allowed him to dedicate his time and efforts into creating the restaurant and market. The characteristics of the food and the overall ambience of the space is unlike anywhere you've been. Find them at: www.nonnocarlo.com

On this long-time in the making episode, Zech & Aaron are chatting with Vincent Kitch and Jeff Grable. Vincent it Director of Arts and Cultural Development in Morgantown, WV. He oversee's much of happenings in the downtown area. He plays a vital role in keeping Morgantown entertained. On that note, Jeff Grable is a local Morgantown music legend. Jeff has been playing in WV and the surrounding states for many years. During his 2020 (COVID days), he opted to use his time to recharge and write a new album. Find Jeff's Music at: https://jeffgrable.bandcamp.com/

Zech & Aaron are joined with Grant Stewart. The founder and owner of Performance Matrix & Co-Founder of Strategic Partners International with business partner, Ray Overdorff. On this episode, we're talking about leadership. Think you have it all figured out? Grant dives into the power of certainty, the importance of clear exceptions, and the things that get you to your goals. We also get a brief preview of Grant's upcoming book - You'll have to listen to find out the title.

Zech & Aaron are chatting with Cat West, owner of Star City Nutrition. She's motivated Morgantown entrepreneur who's proven her skills with 2 successful years in business and more growth on the horizon. She takes her customers wellness very seriously and promotes a product gear toward a healthy lifestyle. Car shares with us her ups and downs on business and the ideas that have helped her continue to grow. On Instagram: @starcitynutrion @catwest24

Zech & Aaron chat with Angelica Mokuahi & Matt Adams about their new business adventure in luxury picnics. They call themselves, The Picnic People! On-site, fully setup and catered luxury style picnics. Zech also chats one-on-one with Aaron about his own longtime business in personal defense - Critical Response. Where he instructs a multifaceted course in personal preparedness and safety. IG: @thepicnicpeople_wv

Zech and Aaron are on site at MannCave Distillery, located in Weston, WV. MannCave is winner of the Double Gold award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021. Stephen Mann chats with us about the unique process he takes to create these award winning spirits. On-site artesian water, local corn, and the careful hands on process that makes each batch award winning. Best of all, it's all right here in West Virginia. Website: www.manncave.com

We're chatting with Joe DeGroff, a true West Virginia entrepreneur. Owner of DeGroff Financial, The Healing Tree (CBD Store), Morgantown Box and Ship, and CFO at Mountain Craft Productions. Joe doesn't have a simple black and white path - he's a creative guy ready to break out of the norms. There is a lot to digest on this episode - We're already setting up a second visit to figure out what we missed!

We're talking with Nick Lambie, owner of Morgantown's Vet & family owned, Ziebart. - (A Bonus Special Offer - Listen For It) - Nick takes us through some auto maintenance tips, vehicle longevity, and what Ziebart is all about. We also touch on the U.S. Super Slam (Turkeys), the Cricut, a little Greek mythology and… is handing washing bad for your car... What?

In this episode, Zech & Aaron chat with 4 noteworthy guests: Amber Wotring, Jamie Summerlin, Paul Kokoska & Ryan Bashour or some upcoming community events. Events we can all get find a way to get involved with actively participate in our great state and communities. Zech & Aaron also touch on a current and favorited by many, outdoor activity, Morel hunting! This is an episode you don't want to skip.

We've got big news for West Virginia and we've said it many times, you often don't have to look further than your own backyard for inspiration! Our guest, Lisa Argiro chats with us about WV's official state food, the pepperoni roll. Aaron & Zech talk with Lisa about the history of this illicit and unlawful food. First commercially baked & sold by Lisa's Grandfather, Giuseppe Argiro at the Country Club Bakery in Fairmont, WV. but oddly enough, is still illegal to produce in some states.

On episode sixteen, we are visited by Hannah Lenhart. Owner and primary artist of Hannah's Clay Creations. Her work can be found throughout the state of West Virginia and is all made locally in Fairmont, WV. Zech & Aaron chat with Hannah about the nitty-gritty of clay making, her “normal” 12 hour days, her unique perspective on becoming an entrepreneur and her future in teaching. Sparks Production Video > YouTube On Instagram: @HannahsClayCreations Hannah's Website: https://www.hannahsclaycreations.com/ Traveling? Find Hannah's Work At These Locations: https://www.hannahsclaycreations.com/where-to-buy-1 Buy Online: https://www.hannahsclaycreations.com/new-products Want More - Find Us On Instagram: Zech, @zechbeard_realtor Aaron, @criticalresponsetrainigwv The Podcast @the_communitypodcast

Zech & Aaron are chatting with Barbara Alexander. A champion of our town and Owner / Broker of Howard Hanna Premier Properties by Barbara Alexander (were friends with our competition). We touch on the crystal ball of real estate, growth in Morgantown and the good ole days - Lebanese food, kibbeh nayeh & tabbouleh and the blooming opportunities Realtors® generate for the towns and cities they serve.

A riveting conversation with John Deskins, Ph.D. John shares his passion for WV and his expertise on the economic forecast for our great state. We touch on bluegrass music, entrepreneurship, WVU's entrepreneurial programs, the short-run/long-run divide, breweries and a quick look at Morgantown's real estate absorption rate. Episode Links: --> Encova Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship: https://business.wvu.edu/research-outreach/encova-center-for-innovation-and-entrepreneurship --> WVU Launch Lab: https://launch.wvu.edu/

Look at your town through the eyes of a visitor - We're talking with Susan Riddle, President and CEO of Visit Mountaineer Country CVB. It's been said many times, if you need inspiration, you often don't have to look further than your own backyard. Next time you're looking for that weekend getaway, checkout the CVB website - turns out, staying one more night and spending one more dollar goes a long way for your community. https://www.visitmountaineercountry.com/ https://www.community-podcast.com/

Do you know how to solve a rock? Did you even know a rock was a problem to be solved? Matt Hulet at Gritstone in Morgantown, WV will teach you the all about how to solve a rock. If you haven't already experienced the rush and moreover, sense of accomplishment from a day on the wall - Gritstone offers your the opportunity! In this episode we chat about our experience, the Yosemite number system, indoor vs outdoor climbing and all things Gritstone.

We're on with AJ Hammond: PR for the locally owned Citizens Bank of Morgantown & board member of MainStreet Morgantown. While chatting we get to enjoy some coffee and pastries from downtowns "Zeke's" restaurant... We'll touch on what makes downtown such a great (yet often overlooked) place, kayaking the Mon, Historic South Park, the PPP program and of course, finish up with a plug for the Cranberry Hotel.

We're chatting with Frank Vitale, founder of Forge Business Solutions & Career Readiness WV. Frank is no exception to the Morgantown community and our great state. Tomorrow is a brighter day than today and Frank is forging the path. This guy is creating a long-lasting and brighter workforce for future generations - He's motivated to do good things for West Virginia - Don't miss this episode!

In this episode we are talking with Chris DeFazio. Owner of the very well known, Morgantown Brewing Co. His incredible journey from winning a competition to opening and growing is own brewery and restaurant. He's is a true pioneer in the the state for his craft.

Born and raised in the Mountain State, including 10 years in Morgantown - a chapter of his life that paved the way for who he is today. Cam Wilson is chatting with the hosts, Zech and Aaron on his newly released album, "Finding Center." Inspired by his time in West Virginia, his family, his failures, his growth. From inception to recording. Cam gives us a detailed look at the thought and process of creating his first music album. And how about that Ford Bronco?

In this episode, we are with Pete Padula. Owner of the new Annie's Coffee & Creamery and the beloved Apple Annie's Restaurant; A menu with something for everyone. If you cannot find something to eat at Apple Annie's, you're not really hungry... We'll also touch on the upcoming Italian Market, old ideas and concepts that have been revitalized as ingenious, Dolly Sods, and Pete's outstanding involvement with the community.

Darlene Grossa with PNC - One of Morgantown's most adept lending experts, gives us the rundown on her work with the Mon Valley Habitat for Humanity projects and ReStore. We touch on PNC's loan products, BNI, freeze dried food and her seemingly love-hate relationship with the great outdoors. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

With our guest: Mon Co. County Commissioner, Tom Bloom; Chatting about our great city (Morgantown) the economic engine in the beautiful hills of West Virginia. We're pulling the curtain back on the enigmatic WestRidge Development, BassPro, Cheesecake Factory?, Broadband, the best cheesesteak, Gene's, and most importantly, "Pantry Plus More" - combating hunger and more one student at a time. An incredible program with the vision to INSPIRE, ENGAGE, and LEAD our community in ending hunger and give every child an equal opportunity to succeed in learning - education is the great equalizer in life.

Coach Collins on building a team. A man is only as good as his word and this man stands behind his. From "Coach to "Broker" - guiding the court to guiding you home. He's found success in his teams and community throughout his many dedicated years to Morgantown, WV. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Zech Beard, Aaron Marko and Ryan Bashour - In the heart of the Appalachian Basin talking about the entrepreneurial endeavors of RB: Pikewood Energy, Compass Realty Group, Golf, [Chasin' Birdies] & the great state of West Virginia. We discover that not everything you read online (good or bad) is always factual. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

There's an old African proverb that says “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together: An Average Man Takes a Not-So-Average Run Across America for Veterans. On July 6, 2012, Marine Corps veteran Jamie Summerlin dipped his feet into the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware after running 3,452 miles in 100 days. While Summerlin's inspiring transcontinental journey to honor U.S. veterans is finished and documented in his book Freedom Run,” his mission to honor veterans is not. Today, Summerlin works through Operation Welcome Home and other nonprofit organizations to provide support for veterans. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Elias Hishmeh: The voyage of a humble, yet iconic mans life from the oilfields of the Middle East to the dining tables of Morgantown, WV. His 40 years of dedicated service has filled out bellies and warmed out hearts - He's inspired us all. "Treat people right, they'll treat you the same way". --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

This is unedited - Drinking 40 Weight Coffee with RB.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app