Atlanta Born & Brand
By Connext Media
Atlanta Born & BrandMar 05, 2020
Billy Kramer: NFA Burger (VIDEO)
“The best burger in the world is the burger you think is the best burger. Not the burger someone else thinks is the best burger.” Check out our video feature with Billy Kramer, owner and founder of NFA Burger — a small but mighty burger joint located INSIDE a Chevron gas station in Dunwoody.
Ardy Arani: Big Green Egg (VIDEO)
Ed Fisher opened the Big Green Egg store in Atlanta in 1974, where he was selling the domed clay cookers. He had discovered them while serving overseas in World War II and was impressed with how well they worked. 50 years and several iterations later, Big Green Egg has become a global phenomenon with a very loyal and dedicated fan base.
The Big Green Egg isn’t like other kamado cookers. When you own a Big Green Egg, you become part of the EGGHead community, a group of passionate and well-fed people who host events each year in the Atlanta area and all around the world. The product line has grown to include seven sizes of the Egg, with hundreds of accessories.
Tune in as we sit down with Ed Fisher and current CEO of Big Green Egg, Ardy Arani. They share a bit of the Egg’s history with us and where the company is today!
Jay Cranman: Hands On Atlanta (VIDEO)
Over 30 years ago, 12 friends sat down and came up with an idea that would make volunteering in their community easier and more accessible, from there Hands On Atlanta was born.
Hands On has become a one-stop shop to bring together Atlanta volunteers and nonprofits. Their organization supports over 150 nonprofits in the Atlanta area and has daily opportunities for volunteers. From one time micro-volunteering, to a full year program with AmeriCorps there's something to fit everyone's schedule.
April Stammel: South Downtown, Newport (VIDEO)
South Downtown, the very streets where Atlanta began! In 2016, Newport opened its Atlanta office and began investing in the future of South Downtown. Through 26 transactions, their team purchased 48 historic buildings and 4 acres of parking lots. The area’s first renovations started with historic Hotel Row and 222 Mitchell.
We sat down with Senior Vice President of Newport, April Stammel, to hear about their current and future projects — including plans for two residential buildings — and hopes to create a walkable, livable, inclusive and connected neighborhood.
Adam Rosenfelt: Pullman Yards (VIDEO)
Watch as Atlanta Born and Brand heads to Pullman Yards, an enchanting piece of Atlanta's history. We spoke with the current owner of Pullman Yards, Adam Rosenfelt, who shared invaluable insights into the site's history -- including the remarkable history of the Pullman Porters and their significant role in the civil rights movement -- and the ambitious revitalization efforts that aim to transform this historic gem into a vibrant, mixed-use community. Witness the awe-inspiring industrial architecture that has withstood the test of time and we chat with Adam about what they have in store for the third act of this site.
Adam Rosenfelt: Pullman Yards (Season 6 | Episode 12)
Join us as we head down to Pullman Yards, an enchanting piece of Atlanta’s history. We sat down with one of the current owners, Adam Rosenfelt, who shared insight into the site’s history — including the remarkable history of the Pullman Porters and their significant role in the civil rights movement — and the ambitious revitalization efforts that aim to transform this historic gem into a vibrant, mixed-use community.
Listen as we talk with Adam about the industrial architecture that has withstood the test of time and what they have in store for the third act of this site.
Head on down to the Pratt-Pullman District and enjoy their many exhibitions and family fun activities. Be sure to share with us if you check out Dailies and Sides, AlcoHall, or play a game of pickleball! For more information head to their website pullmanyards.com.
Rebekah Black: Jambos Donates (VIDEO)
The journey of children in foster care can often be a stressful and sudden situation. Too many children arrive at their new foster homes with very few possessions, some with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Stay tuned for an in depth conversation with Rebekah about the inception of Jambos, and why she feels it’s important for all of us to focus on heart beat versus heartbreak language.
For more information on how to get involved with this awesome cause head to jambosdonates.com. There are hundreds of volunteer opportunities at their warehouse located in Buford, GA – bring your friends, colleagues and even the kiddos! And be sure to follow Rebekah and the Jambos team on Instagram @jambosdonates.
Mario Cambardella: ServeScape (VIDEO)
Founder and CEO, Mario Cambardella sits down with us today to talk about how ServeScape is using their technology to connect under-marketed landscape designers and plant growers with homeowners.
Kate Rosenow: Business Meets Baby (Season 6 | Episode 11)
There’s no “right way” to run a business or raise a child. Both can be incredibly rewarding and challenging at the same time, and are made a whole lot easier when you have support from a community. That’s where Dawn Richardson + Kate Rosenow from Business Meets Baby comes in.
Between the two of them, Dawn and Kate have three kids and 10+ years of experience running businesses. Today, we’re chatting with Kate about her journey as a female entrepreneur, navigating pregnancy, post-partum and motherhood as a CEO and how they can offer support to those wanting to take the plunge into being a business owner.
Be sure to give Kate and the Business Meets Baby crew a follow on their social channels and check out the website www.businessmeetsbaby.com.
Nate Hybl: gusto! Fresh Bowls and Wraps (VIDEO)
Listen in as we chat with Nate about his transition from professional athlete to business owner, how gusto! hopes to continue to disrupt the quick-service food industry and what the next few years hold for the restaurant.
Head to whatsyourgusto.com to find a location near you!
Atlanta Born and Brand is a production of Connext Media. Make sure and follow the show on social media @atlborn on Instagram and like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page.
Atlanta Born and Brand is a production of Connext Media. Make sure and follow the show on social media @atlborn on Instagram and like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page.
This year we have another new video series to coincide with the “Our City, Our Story” theme, which can be found on all our social media platforms. Subscribe to the Atlanta Born and Brand YouTube channel for that content and more.
Lastly, if you love the show please spread the word. Share it with your friends and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps make sure that more and more people hear the stories of all those folks doing great things all over the city.
Nate Hybl: gusto! Fresh Bowls and Wraps (Season 6 | Episode 10)
Nate Hybl, is an ex-NFL quarterback-turned CEO of gusto!, a quick serve, fresh bowls and wraps brand with 13 restaurants in the Atlanta area and counting. After hanging up his helmet, Nate started on a mission to find his new gusto and quickly became enamored with food, going through a “culinary awakening”. He eventually perfected his own concept that combined grains and greens, grilled chicken flavored a million ways, sauce and whole ingredients.
Listen in as we chat with Nate about his transition from professional athlete to business owner, how gusto! hopes to continue to disrupt the quick-service food industry and what the next few years hold for the restaurant.
Head to whatsyourgusto.com to find a location near you!
Ford Fry: Rocket Farm Restaurants (VIDEO)
Ford Fry has cemented himself as an integral part of the Atlanta dining scene, as a chef and owner of over 20 restaurants between Atlanta, Houston, Charlotte and Nashville — like JCT, Superica, St. Cecilia, BeetleCat, The Optimist, and Little Rey to name a few.
From his childhood in Texas, to studying at the New England Culinary Institute – find out why Ford decided Atlanta was the place to put down roots and start his career as a restaurant owner.
Ford Fry: Rocket Farm Restaurants (Season 6 | Episode 9)
We’re sitting down today with Ford Fry, chef and owner of several iconic Atlanta restaurants like Superica, St. Cecilia, BeetleCat, The Optimist, Little Rey. He has cemented himself as an integral part of the Atlanta dining scene, opening up over 20 restaurants between Atlanta, Houston, Charlotte and Nashville.
From his childhood in Texas, to studying at a culinary institute in New England and eventually making his way to Atlanta to work as a corporate chef – we hear why Ford decided Atlanta was the place to put down roots and start his career as a restaurant owner.
Be sure to stop by the new Superica locations in Dunwoody and West Midtown for some incredible grub. And follow Ford + the teams behind his restaurants on social media @fordfry and @rocketfarmfaces.
Billy Kramer: NFA Burger (Season 6 | Episode 8)
Our guest today is Billy Kramer, owner and founder of NFA Burger, a small but mighty burger joint located INSIDE a Chevron gas station in Dunwoody.
Billy started his career in sales & marketing, and one day decided to take up a new passion: burgers. He explored, tested, and came up with his perfect recipe, and started slinging burgers around Atlanta as a pop-up, “Billy’s Burgers.” After lots of trial and error, he found a brick-and-mortar spot and opened in the gas station in December 2019.
With a handful of accolades under their belt – being voted Best Burger in Georgia by Food and Wine is just one – NFA Burger is just getting started. Follow NFA Burger on social media @nfaburger and be sure to let us know if you stop in for a bite to eat!
Aaron Fisher: Atlanta Rescue Dog Cafe (Season 6 | Episode 7)
Atlanta Rescue Dog Cafe is a non-profit with a unique mission; keep your pets from ever becoming rescues. Our guest today is Aaron Fisher, CEO and founder of ARDC. Aaron spent many years working as an elementary school teacher and volunteering and working in animal welfare. You’ll hear in our episode today how each of these experiences led him to start, Atlanta Rescue Dog Cafe. Their aim is to promote responsible pet ownership through community engagement, and keep our pets out of shelters.
Listen in to hear us chat about Aaron’s background, how the non-profit got started, some of their outreach programs and more!
Follow the ARDC team on social media @atlantarescuedogcafe or visit their website (therescuedogcafe.org) to stay up to date on the latest events and volunteer opportunities.
William Warren: The Sketch Effect (Season 6 | Episode 6)
Ever sit in a meeting and think “I have no idea what is going on?” or look back at your notes and feel like you’re trying to decipher a secret code? Well our guest today, has got you covered.
The Sketch Effect is s visual communications business, whose goal is to make ideas understandable with the help of graphic recorders. Sketch Effect’s team of artists will come to your virtual or in-person live events and help synthesize the content by drawing out the big ideas using engaging visuals, typography, color and design elements.
Listen in today as we chat with the founder and CEO of Sketch Effect, William Warren. He shares with us his journey from loving to sketch and doodle as a kid, to studying at SCAD here in Atlanta, and conceiving the idea that would eventually turn into The Sketch Effect! We also dive into his brand new book, "The Conquering Creative" which is all about helping creative people overcome fear and build the creative business or career of their dreams.
Follow William and his team on social media @thesketcheffect and visit their website www.thesketcheffect.com to book your very own Graphic Recording Artist!
Ardy Arani: Big Green Egg (Season 6 | Episode 5)
Ed Fisher opened his Big Green Egg store in Atlanta in 1974, where he began selling the domed clay cooker. He had discovered them while serving overseas in World War II and was impressed with how much better the food tasted using these kamado cookers, versus a typical charcoal or gas grill.
50 years and several iterations later, Big Green Egg has become a worldwide sensation with a loyal and dedicated fan base. When you own a Big Green Egg, you become part of the EGGHead community, a group of passionate and well-fed people who host events each year in the Atlanta area and all around the world. The product line has grown to include seven sizes of the Egg, with hundreds of accessories, to help you cook absolutely everything.
Tune in as we sit down with current CEO of Big Green Egg, Ardy Arani as he shares a bit of the Egg's history with us and how the company turned these grills into the global phenomenon we know today!
Head to their website biggreenegg.com to find a local retailer and join the EGGHead community!
Atlanta Born and Brand is a production of Connext Media. Make sure and follow the show on social media @atlborn on Instagram and like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page.
This year we have another new video series to coincide with the “Our City, Our Story” theme, which can be found on all our social media platforms. Subscribe to the Atlanta Born and Brand YouTube channel for that content and more.
Lastly, if you love the show please spread the word. Share it with your friends and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps make sure that more and more people hear the stories of all those folks doing great things all over the city.
Jay Cranman: Hands On Atlanta (Season 6 | Episode 4)
Hi y’all! It’s me, Kathryn, back on the podcast because this week I’ll be taking over the intro as well as the interview today. My first go round at this, and I got to have an incredible and enlightening conversation that I can’t wait for y’all to hear.
Over 30 years ago, 12 friends sat down and came up with an idea that would make volunteering in their community easier and more accessible, from there Hands On Atlanta was born.
Hands On has become a one-stop shop to bring together Atlanta volunteers and nonprofits. Their organization supports over 150 nonprofits in the Atlanta area and has daily opportunities for volunteers. From one time micro-volunteering, to a full year program with AmeriCorps there's something to fit everyone's schedule.
Listen in as I sit down with Jay Cranman, President and CEO, of Hands On Atlanta to hear about the good work they're doing and how we can each step up to help meet the needs of others.
Follow the Hands On team on social media @handsonatl and be sure to visit their website handsonatlanta.org to see volunteer opportunities near you!
Atlanta Born and Brand is a production of Connext Media. Make sure and follow the show on social media @atlborn on Instagram and like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page.
This year we have another new video series to coincide with the “Our City, Our Story” theme, which can be found on all our social media platforms. Subscribe to the Atlanta Born and Brand YouTube channel for that content and more.
Lastly, if you love the show please spread the word. Share it with your friends and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps make sure that more and more people hear the stories of all those folks doing great things all over the city.
April Stammel: South Downtown, Newport (Season 6 | Episode 3)
South Downtown, the very streets where Atlanta began! In 2016, Newport opened its Atlanta office and began investing in the future of South Downtown. Through 26 transactions, their team purchased 48 historic buildings and 4 acres of parking lots. The area's first renovations started with historic Hotel Row and 222 Mitchell.
Stay tuned for our conversation with Senior Vice President of Newport, April Stammel, to hear about their current and future projects -- including plans for two residential buildings -- and hopes to create a walkable, livable, inclusive and connected neighborhood.
Check out their account @southdwntn on Instagram for more details on these upcoming projects.
Rebekah Black: Jambos Donates (Season 6 | Episode 2)
Almost exactly two years ago, we sat down with Rebekah Black, founder of the non-profit Jambos Donates. Jambos’ mission is to bring a sense of comfort through providing essential items to children in foster care, like pajamas. Since our initial conversation Rebekah has grown her team, upgraded their warehouse and expanded their distribution efforts. Today, we’re bringing you an updated conversation about the progress Jambos has made thanks to the support of those in the Atlanta community and how you can get involved and help them continue to grow.
For more information on how to get involved with this awesome cause head to jambosdonates.com. There are hundreds of volunteer opportunities at their warehouse located in Buford, GA – bring your friends, colleagues and even the kiddos! And be sure to follow Rebekah and the Jambos team on Instagram @jambosdonates.
Atlanta Born and Brand is a production of Connext Media. Make sure and follow the show on social media @atlborn on Instagram and like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page.
This year we have another new video series to coincide with the “Our City, Our Story” theme, which can be found on all our social media platforms. Subscribe to the Atlanta Born and Brand YouTube channel for that content and more.
Lastly, if you love the show please spread the word. Share it with your friends and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps make sure that more and more people hear the stories of all those folks doing great things all over the city.
Mario Cambardella: ServeScape (Season 6 | Episode 1)
ServeScape is Georgia's online landscape marketplace delivered. "From inspiration to installation", ServeScape offers beautiful, resilient landscapes that are locally grown, designed just for you, and delivered to your home or job site.
Founder and CEO, Mario Cambardella sits down with us today to talk about how ServeScape is using their technology to connect under-marketed landscape designers and plant growers with homeowners. To get started on your very own dream landscape head to servescape.com, and follow them on social media @ServeScape to stay up to date!
Atlanta Born and Brand is a production of Connext Media. Make sure and follow the show on social media @atlborn on Instagram and like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page.
This year we have another new video series to coincide with the “Our City, Our Story” theme, which can be found on all our social media platforms. Subscribe to the Atlanta Born and Brand YouTube channel for that content and more.
Lastly, if you love the show please spread the word. Share it with your friends and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast app. Your support helps make sure that more and more people hear the stories of all those folks doing great things all over the city.
The Fox Theatre (Season 5 | Episode 14)
The Fox Theater opened in 1929, originally as a movie palace. Almost 100 years later it is now a registered National Historic Landmark and hosts a variety of cultural events in Atlanta; from broadway musicals to concerts to the Atlanta Ballet.
In its long history The Fox Theater has had to close three times. This most recent being during the COVID-19 pandemic where the theater remained closed for 19 months. VP of Sales & Marketing, Jamie Vosmeier talks with us about the grand history of the Fox, how they navigated closures and how the Atlanta community has come out in full force to support the theater's reopening.
For more information and to see upcoming events visit foxtheatre.org.
LEAD Center for Youth: Part 2 (Season 5 | Episode 16)
If you missed part one of our special episode with Kelli and CJ be sure to go back and give it a listen. We spoke about each of their personal journeys and how CJ made the jump from private coaching, to laying the foundation to start LEAD. In this episode, we’ll dive into getting LEAD off the ground, the decline of Black players in the Major Leagues and how Kelli and CJ are supporting their boys beyond the sport of baseball.
For more information about how you can get involved visit leadcenterforyouth.org
LEAD Center for Youth (Season 5 | Episode 15)
L.E.A.D. Center for Youth is a nonprofit, sport based youth development program. Their mission is to empower an at-risk generation to lead and transform their city of Atlanta by using the sport of baseball to teach Black boys how to overcome three curveballs that threaten their success: crime, poverty and racism.
We spoke with co-founders Kelli and CJ Stewart about LEAD's inception, their vision for the future of the organization and so much more. We want to share every nugget of wisdom these two fearless, relentless, and absolute bosses have to share so this will be the first of a two part episode. Kelli and CJ are making Atlanta a better place and leading a new generation of change makers. We hope you feel just how special their organization is. Tune in next week for the second part of our conversation!
For more information about how you can get involved visit leadcenterforyouth.org
Jashaun Lowery: Grub Truck Stop (Season 5 | Episode 13)
Our guest today is Jashaun Lowery. Jay and his wife Lauren are the team behind Grub Truck Stop, where they are cooking up creative and delicious dishes. What started as a venture into the food truck business has grown into a brick and mortar space located in Chattahoochee Food Works, Atlanta’s newest food hall on the Westside.
Grub Truck Stop is serving up fresh and unique seafood dishes that are, in their words, “so comforting you’ll wanna take a nap after.” We talk with Jay about starting the business, taking a leap of faith from food truck to physical space and more.
Follow the Grub Truck crew on Instagram @grubtruckstop and visit them at Chattahoochee Food Works.
Jesslyn Rollins: Biolyte (Season 5 | Episode 12)
Biolyte was created by Dr. Rollins, an Anesthesiologist and Pain Specialist in Atlanta, GA. In 2005, Dr. Rollins’ wife, Jeannine, was diagnosed with breast cancer. During her treatment, he began to realize that IV hydration therapy, while extremely effective, is often inaccessible and too expensive to those who need it most – and more accessible options like sports drinks are not as effective for severe dehydration.
Dr. Rollins set out to create a product that would “bring the IV bag home”. It was from this need that Biolyte was born. Today we sit down with Jesslyn Rollins, CEO of Biolyte, to hear how their company has grown and is helping everyone from athletes to flu patients to new mothers.
For more information about the product or to find local retailers that carry Biolyte head to drinkbiolyte.com.
Georgia Aquarium (Season 5 | Episode 11)
We’ve got a fun episode for you today with VP of Sales for Georgia Aquarium, Will Ramsey. Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and houses hundreds of species in over 12 million gallons of water.
Like so many businesses, Georgia Aquarium had to close its doors at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the unique challenge of still having to care for the numerous animals that call the aquarium home. We talk with Will about how they navigated those closures, their new shark exhibit and the excitement now as they welcome back guests.
For tickets and more information about Georgia Aquarium head to georgiaaquarium.org.
To watch the full Bounce Back video feature, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuA58VR0h_w
Skinny DeVille and Fish Scales: Atlantucky (Season 5 | Episode 10)
The craft beer scene in Atlanta has exploded in recent years, yet there are few breweries in town that have the distinction of being Black-owned. Nappy Roots members Fish Scales and Skinny DeVille are hoping to shake that up. Earlier this month the duo opened Atlantucky Brewing, a brand new brewery situated in the heart of Castleberry Hill – and very aptly in a building owned by Atlanta icon Herman J. Russell’s family.
Check out our latest Bounce Back episode to hear how they’re hoping to continue the legacy of the historic neighborhood and bring craft beer to hip-hop. You can find the video feature here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0zpLInbnQw&t=123s
Be sure to follow @atlantucky on social media and let us know if you visit the brewery. They’re also allowing local artists to use the space to display and sell their work, so head down to Castleberry Hill and support local creators!
Gene Kansas: Gene Kansas Commercial Real Estate (Season 5 | Episode 9)
Our guest today is cultural developer, Gene Kansas. Gene Kansas leads a commercial real estate brokerage, but his business stretches so far past the norm in that industry.
With company accomplishments like preserving the Atlanta Daily World Building in Sweet Auburn and establishing the civic and socially based coworking space, Constellations; Gene Kansas — as a company — is about the development of culture through transformative ideas, knowledge, and the sharing of it.
Head over to genekansas.com to learn more about the work they’re doing in the Atlanta community.
Kareem Manuel: We.Society (Season 5 | Episode 8)
Social media can be a double edged sword. There’s both good and bad to the instant access we have to others via these platforms. Today, we’re sitting down with someone who is using this powerful tool to make a positive impact in our community and around the globe.
Kareem Manuel started We.Society as a way to get his music out into the world. This led to selling t-shirts on Instagram, promoting a message of hope and acceptance, and in true grassroots fashion people latched on to the message and the movement grew.
Listen in as we talk through the highs and lows of growing a business via social media and how it became a full fledged apparel brand. Head to wesociety.co to purchase your We.Society gear and join the movement!
College Football Hall of Fame (Season 5 | Episode 7)
The College Football Hall of Fame was established in 1951 and officially made the move to Atlanta in 2014. Whether it’s taking the kids out for the day, entertaining friends in town or even date night -- there’s over 50 interactive and educational exhibits for everyone. The Hall also hosts the College Football awards, dozens of media days, and more!
Listen in as we chat today with College Football Hall of Fame CEO, Kimberly Beaudin, to talk more about the unique experience they’re creating for fans and how we can help as they bounce back from the pandemic shutdown.
Be sure to check out the College Football Hall of Fame in downtown Atlanta! For more information or to purchase tickets go to cfbhall.com.
Jonathan Baker: Monday Night Brewing (Season 5 | Episode 6)
In this episode, we’re sitting down with Jonathan Baker, co-founder of Monday Night Brewing. Monday Night is a local Atlanta brewery, which started back in 2006 when a couple of friends got together and decided to give homebrewing a try. Today in 2021, they’ve got multiple locations in the ATL, as well as Nashville and Birmingham. Stick around to hear us chat about where the Monday Night name and logo originated and how the Atlanta community rallied around yet another well loved business when they were down during the pandemic.
If you’re local to Atlanta be sure to check out the Monday Night locations in West Midtown and the historic West End. Or buy their beer in the grocery store! It’s seriously good. https://mondaynightbrewing.com/
Robert Montwaid: Chattahoochee Food Works (Season 5 | Episode 5)
Today, we’re sitting down with co-owner of Chattahoochee Food Works, Robert Montwaid. Chattahoochee Food Works is a brand new 31-vendor, 25,000 square-foot foodhall featured at the center of The Works, one of Atlanta’s newest mixed-use developments on the Upper Westside.
Opening a new business at any time is difficult, let alone in the middle of a pandemic. Robert talks us through those challenges and what it is he loves about the food culture in Atlanta.
Be sure to stop by Chattahoochee Food Works over on the Westside. A great spot for lunch with friends or dinner with the family, there’s something for everyone!
Blake Canterbury: Purposity (Season 5 | Episode 4)
We’re sitting down today with Blake Canterbury, co-founder and CEO of Purposity. Purposity is an app, using the power of technology to connect those in need with people who want to help others, but aren’t quite sure how or where to start.
Purposity works with nonprofits and local schools to identify specific needs and facilitate help from those in the community. Blake talks with us today about how Purposity got started and their plans to expand and continue meeting needs, not just in Atlanta but all around the US.
Download Purposity today on the App Store or Google Play and start living on purpose today!
Kitti Murray: Refuge Coffee Co. (Season 5 | Episode 3)
Today we’re sitting down with Kitti Murray, founder and CEO, of Refuge Coffee Co. Refuge Coffee opened up in Clarkston, GA back in 2014. Clarkston is located just outside Atlanta and is well known for its diverse and vibrant refugee community.
Refuge’s goal is to provide employment, mentorship, job training, and a livable wage to refugees who have resettled in Georgia. Listen as we talk with Kitti about Refuge Coffee’s inception, purpose and how they hope to continue growing and empowering their community.
Visit Refuge Coffee Co. at their Clarkston or Sweet Auburn locations!
Jonathan and Justin Fox: Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q (Season 5 | Episode 2)
Little introduction is needed for our guests this week… unless maybe you’re new to Atlanta or have been living under a rock. In 2007, twin brothers Jonathan and Justin Fox opened their first barbecue joint.
Fourteen years later, Fox Brothers BBQ and their Dekalb Ave location have become Atlanta staples. Today we talk with Jonathan and Justin about how this thing got started, creating their unique spin on Texas-style barbecue and opening a second location mid-pandemic.
Check out the new Fox Bros. location at the Works off Chattahoochee Ave! You can find some of your favorites and a few new items only available at the new location.
Zoo Atlanta (Season 5 | Episode 1)
Today, we’re talking with Shawn Whitman, VP of Membership and Guest Experience at Zoo Atlanta. For over a century the zoo has been a mainstay in the city, but just like everyone else they faced massive challenges dealing with the CoVid-19 pandemic. Shawn tells us more on this episode of Atlanta Born and Brand.
For more information or to buy tickets to the zoo, head to zooatlanta.org.
ATLumni: Kevin Cregan, Atlanta Sport & Social Club (Season 4 | Episode 30)
Today we're catching up with ABB alumni, Kevin Cregan. Kevin is the founder of Atlanta Sport & Social Club, an organization that aims to connect adults in Atlanta through sports leagues and other social events. We first talked with Kevin back in February of 2020, just before our worlds were turned upside down. Tune in to hear how ASSC navigated COVID-19 and how they plan to continue finding ways to connect people and foster community in the city.
Check out the ASSC website www.atlantasportandsocialclub.com or follow them on social media @atlantassc.
ATLumni: Jesse Grossman and Jacey Lucus, Community Bucket (Season 4 | Episode 29)
Today, we’re catching up with Jesse Grossman and Jacey Lucus from Community Bucket. We first spoke back in October of 2020, while the team was still in the thick of navigating COVID-19. Now as the world begins to open up Community Bucket is ready to continue making an impact and serving the communities they’re in!
To keep up with the latest from the Community Bucket team and “Make An Impact Where You Live” head to communitybucket.com. Make sure to also give them a follow on social media @communitybucket.
ATLumni: Joel Byars, Comedian, Hot Breath Podcast (Season 4 | Episode 28)
Atlanta Born and Brand is a show all about businesses built right here in the capital of the South. But more importantly, it’s a show about their founders. We wanted to find some of the city’s most interesting entrepreneurs and creators, hear about their challenges, successes and how they built a brand that will last.
Today on the show, we’re catching up with Atlanta Born & Brand Alumni, Joel Byars. We’ve had our pal, Joel, on the show a few times now and know we’re always guaranteed a laugh. Tune in as we talk about life as a comedian during a pandemic and how Joel has pivoted during a time without live performances.
Follow Joel on Instagram @joelbyarscomedy or @hotbreathpod.
Jen Hidinger-Kendrick: Giving Kitchen (Season 4 | Episode 27)
Today we’re sitting down with Jen Hidinger- Kendrick, co-founder of the non-profit Giving Kitchen. The story of Giving Kitchen’s beginnings is one of community, compassion and the best of humanity. When Jen’s late husband, Ryan, was diagnosed with terminal cancer back in 2012 the response and outpouring of love from friends within the restaurant community kick started something special.
Nine years later, Jen and the team at Giving Kitchen are dedicated to providing emergency assistance to food service workers through financial support and a network of community resources. In the words of Jen, “While Giving Kitchen’s story started with the fight to save one life, now our story is the fight to serve thousands.”
To learn more about Giving Kitchen and the resources they offer or to make a donation head to thegivingkitchen.org. You can also follow the team for updates on Instagram @givingkitchen.
Karen Anderson Singer: Tiny Doors ATL (Season 4 | Episode 26)
By now, there’s hardly anyone in Atlanta that doesn’t know what Tiny Doors ATL is. In case you’ve been living under a rock the last few years; Tiny Doors ATL is an art project bringing magic to spaces around the city.
The miniature doors are sculpted by artist Karen Anderson Singer and transform what was once just a wall into a community space of intrigue and wonder. Today we talk with Karen about why she felt inspired to start this project and how it’s bringing our city together.
Follow Karen on Instagram @tinydoorsatl and head to tinydoorsatl.com to find more information about each of the doors, their locations and even commission your very own tiny door!
Phil Sanders: Citizen Supply (Season 4 | Episode 25)
In 2014, Phil Sanders founded Foster, a community space where artists, creatives and entrepreneurs could gather and support one another. From here the idea of Citizen Supply was born. Citizen Supply officially opened in Ponce City Market in 2015, as one of the first tenants on the second floor. Today the shop offers a plethora of handmade goods and serves to connect the community with local makers and artists. Listen in as we talk with Phil about making the leap from Foster to Citizen Supply and the highs and lows of growing a retail business.
You can find Citizen Supply on the second floor of Ponce City Market. Head on in and support these local Atlanta entrepreneurs and artists. Can’t make it out? No worries. You can shop on their website citizensupply.com!
Maddie Morden and Tammy Lopez: Personify Shop (Season 4 | Episode 24)
In the bustling downtown of Duluth you can find a variety of restaurants and shops, among them is a modern and whimsical boutique called Personify. Today, we’re sitting down with the mother-daughter duo who founded the shop, Maddie Morden and Tammy Lopez. Listen as we talk about the process of curating their brand and unique shopping experiences for customers, as well as the challenges faced during the retail COVID-19 shut down.
If you find yourself in downtown Duluth, be sure to stop in to Personify! You can also check out their website personifyshop.com.
Bhargava Chiluveru: Fourofour (Season 4 | Episode 23)
Atlanta is full of so many amazing creatives and as the city continues to evolve, more people flock here in hopes of fulfilling their dreams. As we’ve seen this year, community and the ability to connect with others is vital to us as human beings. Our guest today is Bhargava Chiluveru, founder of FourOFour. FourOFour’s mission is to empower artists through community engagement, partnership and entrepreneurship. Stay tuned as we chat about the future of FourOFour post-pandemic, Chil.Studios and more.
Follow Bhargava and the team on Instagram @b.chil, @chilstudioS and @fourofour.co
Rebekah Black: Jambos Donates (Season 4 | Episode 22)
The journey of children in foster care can often be a stressful and sudden situation. Too many children arrive at their new foster homes with very few possessions, some with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Today, we’re sitting down with Rebekah Black founder of the non-profit Jambos Donates. Jambos’ mission is to bring a sense of comfort through providing essential items to children in foster care, like pajamas. We’re talking about the importance of heart beat versus heartbreak language and what we can each do to help bring comfort to children in need.
Follow Rebekah and the Jambos team on Instagram @jambosdonates. For more information on how to get involved with this awesome cause head to jambosdonates.com. You can also support Jambos through Amazon Smile, just follow this link: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/82-4417283
Make sure to subscribe to Atlanta Born & Brand in Apple Podcasts or wherever you happen to be listening. If you like the show we’d really appreciate a review and a rating. And of course, share it with your friends. Keep up with the show on social media: we’re @atlbornbrand on Instagram and Twitter, and you can also like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page. Finally, you can find all the previous episodes of the show on our website atlborn.com.
Nedra Deadwhyler: Civil Bikes (Season 4 | Episode 21)
Often when we learn about history, whether it’s taking a stroll around a museum or watching a documentary, the learning process can be a one sided conversation. Our guest today is hoping to change that in Atlanta and facilitate a conversation between seekers of knowledge. So much of Atlanta’s identity and history has been shaped by the Civil Rights movement, but how much do we really know about this crucial period of history?
Today we’re sitting down with Nedra Deadwhyler, founder of Civil Bikes. The mission of Civil Bikes to bring attention to unseen and unheard stories about Atlanta. Listen on to find out more about what Nedra and her team are doing to connect the city through education.
Throughout history and even still today, Atlanta’s culture has been influenced by a spirit of justice and resistance. We hope that y’all are inspired to dive deeper into the history of this amazing, resilient city. To find out more about Civil Bikes and the work they’re doing visit their website civilbikes.com or find them on Instagram @civil_bikes.
Make sure to subscribe to Atlanta Born & Brand in Apple Podcasts or wherever you happen to be listening. If you like the show we’d really appreciate a review and a rating. And of course, share it with your friends. Keep up with the show on social media: we’re @atlbornbrand on Instagram and Twitter, and you can also like our Atlanta Born and Brand Facebook page. Finally, you can find all the previous episodes of the show on our website atlborn.com.
Zac Harrison: Fresh Harvest (Season 4 | Episode 20)
Do you know where the strawberries you just purchased from Publix were grown? Or what about those dozen eggs you picked up at Kroger? There’s nothing wrong with shopping at large grocery chains, oftentimes they’re the cheapest and most accessible option. But what if you could get fresh groceries like produce, meat, milk and more from local farmers without having to venture out to the farmer’s market? Turns out, you can!
Our guest today is Zac Harrison, founder of Fresh Harvest. Fresh Harvest is the farmer’s market you’ve been looking for online and delivered to your door. Zac and his team are creating a local food system that supports organic farms, creates jobs for refugees, and reduces food and packaging waste. Head to freshharvestga.com to get started and support local Georgia farmers!
Make sure to subscribe to Atlanta Born & Brand in Apple Podcasts or wherever you happen to be listening. If you like the show we’d really appreciate a review and a rating. Also, find additional Atlanta Born & Brand content on our new YouTube channel. Finally, you can find all the previous episodes of the show on our website atlborn.com.
Rhea Perkins: Attyre Delivery (Season 4 | Episode 19)
In an Amazon driven, on-demand world shopping local isn’t always the easiest or most convenient option. And with the ongoing pandemic so many have turned to online shopping. But small and local businesses are what give life to our communities and we know supporting these entrepreneurs is as important to y’all as it is to us.
That’s why we’re so excited to introduce you to our guest today, Rhea Perkins, founder of Attyre Delivery. Attyre is an online platform that connects you with local small and ecommerce businesses, and offers you same day delivery!
Attyre is currently offering a special deal of one free delivery service, until February 16th at 4PM. Enter the code Attyre to receive this offer. You can find more information on their website attyredelivery.com or on Instagram @attyredelivery.
Shaune Huysamen: Whitetail Bicycles & Coffee Shop (Season 4 | Episode 18)
We found ourselves in Milton, Georgia for our episode this week. Our guest… Shaune Huysamen, founder of Whitetail Bicycles. Originally from Cape Town, South Africa Shaune moved to America after high school. In 2016, after working in real estate for many years, Shaune decided it was time to take the leap and combine his dream of opening a coffee shop with his love of cycling.
Today, we talk with Shaune about everything that goes into opening a bike store and why Milton was the perfect place to start! If you find yourself in the downtown Crabapple area, be sure to stop by Whitetail Bicycles for a cup of coffee or pint of one of their four local beers on tap!
Keep up with Shaune and the team on social media @whitetailbikes or visit whitetailbicycles.com.