Created by Real Boone Studios to highlight the stories of local entrepreneurs, business owners, and creatives in the high country of North Carolina. Our goal is provide as much value as possible for our local community here in Boone.
Created by Real Boone Studios to highlight the stories of local entrepreneurs, business owners, and creatives in the high country of North Carolina. Our goal is provide as much value as possible for our local community here in Boone.
In this Episode we talk with Cat Roten, local podcaster and business coach. She walks us through the ins and outs of business, marketing, and personal time management. This one is sure to inspire for the new year!
In this episode of The Real Boone Podcast, we sit down with Don Cox better known around Boone as Bald Guy to talk about faith, failure, community, and the long road of building something that actually lasts. Don shares how he came to Boone in the ’80s “to fish” and slowly became part of the fabric of Watauga County, how a traumatic brain injury ended his career in ministry, and how coffee became both a calling and a lifeline. From roasting beans off the grid in a converted Sprinter van to losing everything in a fire and rebuilding from the ground up, this conversation is honest, funny, and deeply human. We talk about entrepreneurship as work you don’t quit, why community matters more than branding, what it means to serve without performing, and how creativity shows up in commitment rather than hype. Along the way, Don reflects on faith, legacy, resilience, and why Watauga County “wouldn’t let him go out of business.” This episode is about starting over, staying rooted, and doing the work in front of you one faithful step at a time.
In this episode, Grant and Crystal, co-owners of Summit Pickleball in Boone, share the real story behind starting a pickleball space rooted in community, connection, and place. From deciding to take the leap and build something local to learning what it actually takes to run a recreation-based business, they talk openly about the challenges, the risks, and the moments that made it worth it. More than just pickleball, this conversation explores why Boone matters to them, how community shows up when you build something with intention, and what it means to create a place where people genuinely want to be.
When Emily Brinker and her husband opened The Speckled Trout in Blowing Rock, they had no restaurant experience just grit, a love for Appalachian food, and a deep belief in community. In this episode, Emily shares how risk turned into reward, how hospitality became a mission, and why authenticity tastes better than perfection. From wild trout to fresh cocktails and long nights that shaped a dream, this story captures what happens when you say yes before you’re ready and build something real along the way.
Join us for a conversation with Daniel Law, a regenerative agriculture practitioner who's implementing innovative farming solutions in the remote Democratic Republic of Congo. Daniel shares his insights on the broken food system in America, the principles of regenerative agriculture, and how these practices are transforming communities in one of the world's most challenging environments. From soil health to food sovereignty, this episode explores what it takes to build truly sustainable food systems both at home and abroad.
In this episode, we sit down with Boone-based Thai cook and community creator Sherri Pengjad, whose kitchen is filled with more than just flavor it’s full of heart, heritage, and connection. Sherri shares how her love for Thai cooking became a bridge between cultures, a way to celebrate her roots while building community right here in the High Country. From the lessons she learned growing up to the joy she finds in sharing meals with others, Sherri’s story reminds us that food is one of the most beautiful ways to tell our stories.
In this episode, Aaron shares his story of grit, curiosity, and community from growing up on a gravel road, up in a holler to becoming a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne and later co-founding Center 45 Climbing & Fitness. His reflections on risk, purpose, and the High Country climbing scene reveal how passion and perseverance can shape a place and the people around it. This episode celebrates the energy of Boone, the joy of climbing, and “being active and having a really, really fun time doing it.”
In this episode Jaco shares his wild story of adaptation and perseverance across continents, revealing how his commitment to hard work and genuine human connection has shaped both his life and career. This episode is a testament to the power of building deep relationships and embracing new communities, no matter where life takes you.
We dive into the world of software development, AI, and more as it relates to Boone!!
Today we dive into Scott’s story of building a manufacturing business here in town, how tariffs are changing the game, and what it takes to design something new! This is a great one you won’t want to miss.
Join us for a conversation with ultrarunner John Kelly about his recent Appalachian Trail speed record attempt and why he had to stop just short of the finish. Kelly shares his thoughts on embracing discomfort, setting big goals, and how to push beyond your limits. Whether you're a runner or just looking for motivation, this episode offers honest insights on dealing with setbacks and staying driven. Get ready to step outside your comfort zone.
Meredith Davis never set out to become a designer, entrepreneur, or community builder but what started with a campus coffee shop job turned into a story of risk, faith, and deep creative purpose. In this episode, she shares how her early experiences abroad reshaped her values, how Local Lion came to life with basically no budget, how they started Venture, and how design became her language for serving people. ALSO get a sneak peek into the new bookstore they are opening this fall. From heating bathwater in a creek to creating spaces that feel sacred and welcoming, Meredith’s story is as grounding as it is inspiring.
Corrie Freeman has been a 4th grade teacher at Hardin Park for 26 years. In this episode, she will dive into the ins and outs of elementary education, community involvement, and shaping kids futures by simply being the best 4th grade teacher she can be. Corrie makes sure to love each kid to the fullest that walks through her classroom door…and it shows!
Today we explore the wild story of how Mike Boone built the go to bike shop in Boone. He tells his story of getting a DUI, riding bikes on long lost trails, and how to adapt a business in a changing world.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rachael Van Dyke, a full-time artist whose abstract landscape and figurative works are deeply influenced by her off-grid lifestyle in these Blue Ridge Mountains as well as her extensive travels abroad. In this episode, Rachael opens up about her creative process, sharing insights into how she transforms her experiences into captivating art. She also discusses her time in various artist residencies, offering a glimpse into the opportunities and challenges they present. Plus, Rachael reflects on the life lessons she’s learned through her unique journey, making this a must-listen for artists and dreamers alike.
Owner of Our Daily Builders Joe Keys discusses with us his story. We dive into the why behind ultra-running, raising a daughter, and his faith. This is a great one you don't want to miss.
Today we talk with our friend Shane who shares his experience in the food industry, how he got to Boone, and why he loves to serve people with food! Learn more about F.A.R.M. Cafe!
Today we talk all things Boone PD with our good friend Kat. She’s the community liason and used to be a detective for several years. We get into crazy stories, how to create your own role at a job, and what it takes to be a police officer.
In this episode we chat with our good friend Cacey, Ph.D Associate Professor of Mathematics Education at Appalachian State University. We dive into his story and explore topics like: why everyone seems to hate math, working through tragedy, and how to teach creatively to engage your students. Whether you are a book club leader, recovering from math trauma, or even a parent this podcast is for you.
Executive director of the Watauga Arts Council, founder of Quiet Givers, and an accomplished artist. Amber Bateman has left a tremendous impact wherever she works. We dive into her story, the current needs of the artist community in the high country, and how Cheap Joe's warehouse could be the future center for the arts.