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JOS H SPEARS

Brings Flavor and Community Together

LIFE + CULTURE FROM FOOD TRUCK BEGINNINGS TO LOCAL FAVORITE, CAJUN CORNER DELIVERS FLAVOR, MUSIC, AND CONNECTION DAILY.

JUNE 2026

From Foundation to Innovation: A Decades-Long Family Journey in

Stone

The story of Emerald Coast Fabrication is a masterclass in American entrepreneurship, charting a thirty-year journey from a family-run startup to a regional powerhouse Founded in 1994 by Jim and Wendy Tatanish after relocating from North Carolina, the company began as a modest shop on 23rd Street in Panama City Built on a foundation of uncompromising quality, the operation has blossomed over the decades into the Florida Panhandle’s premier destination for luxury custom stone surfaces.

Today, under the leadership of General Manager Jared Tatanish, the company is redefining the intersection of luxury and technology To serve the sophisticated demands of high-end 30A developments, Emerald Coast Fabrication recently invested between $4 million and $8 million into its expansive 25,000-square-foot facility on Panama City Beach Parkway This expansion marks a pivotal shift from traditional hand-cutting to a future defined by world-class automation.

While the machinery is cutting-edge, the soul of the company remains rooted in "old-world" craftsmanship Jared Tatanish is doing more than modernizing a business; he is preserving a legacy. By blending foundational masonry skills with industrial robotics, Emerald Coast Fabrication ensures it remains the undisputed standard of excellence for generations to come.

17756 PANAMA CITY BEACH PARKWAY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL 32413

The facility now boasts a production line that rivals advanced automotive plants The centerpiece is the BACA Robo SawJet, utilizing KUKA robotic arms the same technology used to manufacture high-end electric vehicles—to deliver laser-guided accuracy. This is paired with digitized vein matching software, allowing artisans to align the natural patterns of stone slabs with flawless continuity.

Men in Business Issue

This issue centers on leadership rooted in purpose, resilience, and connection—highlighting men shaping business, culture, and community across the Emerald Coast. From public service and hospitality to real estate, brewing, finance, service, and creative expression, each story reflects a shared commitment to building something meaningful and lasting.

Along the vibrant waterfront energy of Santa Rosa Beach, Josh and Nanci Spears have built more than a restaurant-they’ve created a gathering place rooted in flavor and connection. What began as their humble food truck, Sports to Geaux, has evolved into Cajun Corner Sports Bar & Grill, now known for its bold Cajun cuisine, lively atmosphere, and strong sense of community. From rich, slow-simmered gumbo to high-energy crawfish boils and live music, every detail reflects their passion for bringing people together. At the center of it all is their signature alligator BBQ, smoked low and slow for seven hours, delivering a deep, unforgettable flavor that perfectly captures the spirit of the Gulf Coast. It’s this dedication to craft, culture, and genuine hospitality that has turned Cajun Corner into a local staple where every visit feels like coming home.

Nearby, Lawless Coast Brewing reflects persistence and craftsmanship. Founded by Josh Nesius and Chris Lane, it grew from homebrewing passion into a community destination rooted in friendship and heritage. Each beer represents patience, quality, and authenticity.

In Destin, Steven Franco is reshaping commercial real estate through Rodos Realty Advisors and Beachworx. He blends investment strategy with modern workspaces, creating flexible environments where businesses can adapt, collaborate, and grow in a changing economy.

Aaron Marsh of Marsh Lending brings a relationship-driven approach to mortgage solutions across 34 states, offering tailored strategies for investors and entrepreneurs focused on long-term financial stability and growth.

Joshua Yirkovsky advances mission-driven work through Angel Force Foundation and Angel Force Protection, focusing on proactive safety, education, and support for children, veterans, and first responders while expanding platforms that elevate community voices.

In financial markets, John McHugh of Wealth Trust Asset Management applies a disciplined, data-driven investment philosophy centered on risk management, adaptability, and long-term performance.

Artist Jonathan Kattine contributes a visual narrative through painting, photography, and mixed media, exploring memory, emotion, and perception across the Emerald Coast and beyond.

Together, these men reflect a broader movement across the region—where leadership is defined not by title, but by impact, vision, and connection.

June 2026

PUBLISHER

Carmen Foster | carmen.foster@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Maria Serondo | destincitylifestyle@gmail.com

MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR

Michele Pavlich | Covenantcookiecreations@gmail.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Ernalyn Ruda | er.photography20@gmail.com

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Navigating Today’s Real Estate Market With Confidence

In today’s uncertain market, buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming—but the right strategy makes all the difference. Whether you’re stepping into homeownership, expanding your investment portfolio, or preparing to sell, understanding current conditions is key to making confident decisions.

For sellers, pricing your home correctly from the start is critical to attracting strong, serious buyers. Presentation matters more than ever, as first impressions can directly impact your bottom line. For buyers, staying informed on local trends, costs like insurance and taxes, and long-term value helps you make a smart, secure investment. Even in shifting markets, opportunities are everywhere. With the right guidance, you can navigate uncertainty, protect your investment, and move forward with confidence—no matter which side of the transaction you’re on.

The Emerald Coast offers a unique mix of opportunities - from waterfront homes to investment properties and housing for military families relocating to the area. Having experienced professionals by your side to navigate pricing, negotiations, and market strategy helps you protect your investment and achieve the best possible outcome.

ARTICLE BY CARA VOSS

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From a humble food truck to a beloved Santa Rosa Beach destination, Cajun Corner brings Louisiana flavor,community spirit, and unforgettable experiences to the Emerald Coast

Mr. Gumbo’s

Home

On a lively stretch of Santa Rosa Beach, Cajun Corner Sports Bar & Grill feels like a gathering place where everyone belongs. Founded by Josh and Nanci Spears, the journey began with their food truck, Sports to Geaux, serving authentic Cajun flavors across the Panhandle. Today, known for award-winning gumbo, crawfish boils, and live music, Cajun Corner blends bold Louisiana taste with a welcoming atmosphere that turns first-time visitors into lifelong regulars.

Josh Spears -Owner

That same spirit defines Cajun Corner today. The restaurant is intentionally unpolished, warm, and deeply personal. Guests come for the bold flavors—award-winning gumbo, fresh crawfish boils, and classic Southern favorites—but stay for the atmosphere. With live music, sports on screen, and even a poolside setting, every visit feels like a celebration.

Community remains at the heart of it all. From “Hook & Cook” partnerships with local fishing captains to walls filled with photos and memorabilia, the space reflects the people who have become part of its story. It’s a place where strangers become friends, and friends become family.

More than a restaurant, Cajun Corner is an experience—one built on risk, resilience, and a deep love for sharing Louisiana culture in Florida Panhandle. Discover more at: https://cajuncornersrb.com

The story of Cajun Corner Sports Bar & Grill begins long before its doors opened. After years spent traveling in the oil and gas industry, Josh Spears was ready for a different pace of life. Leaving behind the constant motion, he and his wife Nanci followed a simple idea—“I hear Florida is nice”—and made their way from Louisiana to the Emerald Coast.

What started as a leap of faith quickly became a labor of love. Their food truck, Sports to Geaux, spent seven years building a loyal following across the Panhandle. Serving authentic Cajun dishes rooted in family recipes, they created more than meals—they created connections. Customers returned not only for the food, but for the feeling.

A view from the Cajun Corner Sports Bar & Grill

Nancy & Josh Spears

Mission-Driven Leadership Focused on Child Safety

CREATING SAFER COMMUNITIES THROUGH SERVICE, PROTECTION, AND YOUTH-FOCUSED LEADERSHIP

Joshua Yirkovsky is a leader who believes action always speaks louder than intention. After more than two decades of service in the United States Navy, he brought that same mission driven mindset to the Emerald Coast first and now the nation, where he focuses on building stronger systems of protection, leadership,and impact across the villages.

Joshua Yirkovsky

As the founder of Angel Force Protection and President of Angel Force Foundation, Joshua has dedicated his work to advancing proactive protection in schools and creating meaningful support systems for kids, veterans, first responders, and educators. His approach is grounded in real world experience and a clear belief that safety is not something you react to, it is something you build into the culture before it is ever needed. He has become known for challenging traditional models and pushing conversations forward, especially when it comes to how communities think about protecting children.

Joshua’s leadership style was not developed in theory. It was forged in high pressure environments where accountability, clarity, and trust were non negotiable. Today, he applies those same principles to his organizations, leading teams, building partnerships, and driving initiatives that are designed to actually work in the real world. He is direct, solutions focused, and not afraid to ask the uncomfortable questions if it leads to a better outcome.Beyond his work in protection and philanthropy,Joshua has expanded into media and storytelling as a way to amplify voices that often go unheard. He is the owner of Streetlight Angels Productions, a company built to give youth a voice in professional media resources at no cost.He is also the creator of the Streetlight Angels Podcast and Equilibrium Effect Podcast. He serves as the voice behind these two very

“Everything I build is rooted in action, not intention. My mission is to create real protection, empower youth,and strengthen communities by building systems that make safety and opportunity part of the culture.”

different projects, using these platforms to highlight leadership, personal growth, and real conversations that matter.His work in this space reflects a deeper belief that giving people a voice can change the trajectory of their lives.

Joshua also serves as a board member of the Production Services Association of Northwest Florida, supporting the growth of the regional production and creative industry.He is a graduate of Leadership Okaloosa Class 25-26 and a two time recipient of Who’s Who in America. Locally,he continues to invest in relationships and collaboration through organizations like the Crestview Kiwanis Club and 100 Men Who Care Emerald Coast.He is also the founder of the “Who’s Who of Crestview,” a networking group built to connect leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries who believe that collaboration will always outperform competition.

Through Angel Force Foundation,Joshua has helped lead initiatives that go far beyond traditional nonprofit work.From large scale events like the Heroes on the Waterfront Winter Ball and Palooza to the development of programs focused on child education, protection, and mental health and wellness, his focus remains consistent. Create real impact that people can see and feel.nAt his core, Joshua is driven by something simple and personal.Everything he is building is about creating a better future for his family to live in.And if you spend enough time around him, you will hear it in his own words.

“Let’s make big waves and smart moves. Be safe.”

Men Shaping Business and Community

Showcasing entrepreneurs and leaders whose vision, resilience, and dedication are transforming business and community across the Emerald Coast.

ARTICLE BY CARA VOSS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

STEVEN FRANCO

RODOS REALTY, AND BEACHWORX IN DESTIN, FLORIDA

In Destin, Steven Franco has established himself as a key figure in commercial real estate and business innovation. As Managing Partner of Rodos Realty Advisors, he provides brokerage and advisory services focused on acquisitions, asset optimization, and long-term investment strategy. His work emphasizes helping clients maximize value while adapting to changing market conditions along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Beyond traditional real estate, Franco is also the founder of Beachworx, a coworking and executive office concept designed for today’s flexible workforce. By transforming commercial property into a shared workspace environment, Beachworx offers private offices, collaborative areas, and meeting facilities that support entrepreneurs, remote professionals, and growing businesses.

This dual approach reflects a broader evolution in commercial real estate. Rather than viewing properties solely as static assets, Franco’s ventures focus on creating dynamic spaces that encourage productivity and connection. Beachworx, in particular, highlights the growing demand for flexible work environments that blend professional functionality with a sense of community.

As Destin continues to expand as both a tourism destination and business hub, Franco’s leadership through Rodos Realty and Beachworx contributes to shaping a more adaptive and forward-thinking local economy, one that supports both investment growth and modern work lifestyles.To secure your office space or schedule a tour, visit Beachworx and experience a modern workspace designed for entrepreneurs and growing businesses along the Emerald Coast.Located in: Shoppes at Paradise Isle ,34990 Emerald Coast Pkwy #300, Destin, FL 32541 ,Phone: (850) 974-3435.

Destin, FL, April 14, 2026 – John McHugh, founder of Wealth Trust Asset Management, was featured on the Marquis Masters Podcast, a series highlighting leaders and innovators shaping modern industries. Hosted by Ryan Estes, the show explores personal journeys behind professional success, emphasizing resilience and discipline.

McHugh traces his path from oil and gas auditing in West Texas to corporate accounting and financial reporting leadership. These experiences shaped his investment philosophy: long-term success depends on companies’ ability to exceed earnings expectations.

He highlights earnings revisions as key market signals, noting downward revisions often precede weakness, while upward revisions suggest strength. Over 23 years, his “numbers-first” approach has guided strategy and driven outperformance versus the broader market.

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“Markets are not driven by headlines, but by changing earnings expectations. When revisions turn downward, risk is already building beneath the surface. Successful investing requires discipline, early recognition of deterioration, and a systematic approach to selling before consensus catches up. That is where consistent long-term advantage is created for investors.”

He contrasts this with traditional timing-focused investing, prioritizing disciplined selling and risk control. In 2007, his models flagged General Electric as a sell, before its 2008 collapse, reinforcing early warning signals.

The podcast also covers McHugh’s use of artificial intelligence for momentum screening and trend analysis, supported by strict quantitative oversight to ensure reliability.

Risk management is achieved through sector rotation using AI and sentiment data, adjusting exposure across major equity sectors based on macro conditions.

Inspired by his father’s ceramic tile business, McHugh emphasizes adaptability as essential, noting that even strong businesses fail without it. He also compares active and passive investing, highlighting efficiency in boutique management while acknowledging tax considerations.

On cryptocurrency, he remains cautious due to volatility, favoring infrastructure investments such as data centers and energy providers.

He also emphasizes transparency and education through weekly market recaps designed to simplify complex market dynamics and support investor confidence and long-term disciplined wealth management outcomes for clients consistently. To learn more about disciplined, data-driven investment strategies and long-term wealth planning, connect with Wealth Trust Asset Management, check out their website http://www.wealthtrustam.com or call/ email at Cell: 314-504-4379, john@wealthtrustam.com.

JOHN MCHUGH

CHAMPIONS NUMBERS-FIRST WEALTH STRATEGY

AARON MARSH

Marsh Lending Aaron Marsh is the president and founder of Marsh Lending, a boutique mortgage firm built to help clients navigate complex financial situations with clarity, confidence, and a more customized approach to lending. Backed by decades of experience in corporate finance operations, investment strategy, and organizational leadership, Aaron launched the firm with a clear vision: to create a more relationship-driven lending experience for borrowers who need more than a one-size-fits-all solution. Today, from its home base along the scenic beaches of 30A, Marsh Lending serves clients across 34 states, including all of Florida.

Aaron’s path to lending is rooted in both lifelong exposure to real estate and a strong financial foundation. Raised in Dallas, he developed an early understanding of the industry and later paired that knowledge with an MBA in Strategy and more than 30 years of leadership experience in finance and business operations. That blend of real estate familiarity, strategic thinking, and financial expertise now shapes the way he leads Marsh Lending and advises clients through some of their most important decisions.

At Marsh Lending, Aaron and his team specialize in helping individuals, entrepreneurs, and investors whose financial profiles may not fit neatly inside traditional bank underwriting models. Rather than viewing loans as simple transactions, Aaron approaches lending as a strategic partnership. His firm works with a wide range of financing solutions, including DSCR loans for investment properties, bank statement loans, no income verification options, portfolio loans, 1031 exchanges, and other specialized products designed to meet the realities of today’s personal and commercial markets. The goal is not just to get deals done, but to help clients find the right structure for long-term financial growth.

Education is also a major part of Aaron’s mission. He is passionate about helping investors and everyday buyers better understand the lending landscape, particularly the opportunities that exist beyond conventional financing. He believes that when people are given the right guidance and access to the right tools, they are better positioned to build wealth, create passive income, and make more confident real estate decisions.

Outside of work, Aaron enjoys spending time with his family, watching football, and golfing whenever he can. He is also passionate about giving back to the community, serving as an Ambassador for the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce, volunteering for local events, and supporting youth sports and charitable causes. Whether he is helping a seasoned investor secure financing or guiding a buyer through a more complex path to ownership, Aaron brings a steady, strategic perspective to every relationship—one built on trust, transparency, and a genuine commitment to helping others move forward.

To explore tailored lending solutions or discuss your next investment strategy, connect with Aaron Marsh at Marsh Lending and experience a more personalized, relationship-driven approach to financing built around your goals. Visit: http://marshlending.com, Aaron Marsh, President, cell 214-729-3180.

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Jonathan Kattine is a multidisciplinary visual artist based along Florida’s Emerald Coast whose work moves fluidly between painting, mixed media, and photography. His practice is rooted in observation, storytelling, and a desire to explore the emotional and psychological layers of everyday life. Drawing inspiration from coastal environments, human interaction, and imagined realities, his work blends elements of abstraction, surrealism, and texture to create pieces that feel both grounded and otherworldly.

At the core of Kattine’s approach is a refusal to be confined to a single medium. He views each form, whether painting, sculptural material, or photography, as a distinct tool with its own language and ability to communicate. For him, different mediums allow for different kinds of expression. Some moments call for the depth and physical presence of layered paint, while others are best captured through the immediacy and honesty of a photograph. This openness allows his work to evolve naturally and continuously without limitation.

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see my work as a way of observing life and translating emotion into visual form. Whether through paint, mixed media, or photography, I am always trying to capture something honest about human experience and the world around us today.”

That mindset fuels a constant output and a deeper connection to his audience. His work is exhibited throughout the Emerald Coast and in exhibitions across the United States and internationally, creating opportunities for viewers to engage with his work on multiple levels visually, emotionally, and conceptually.

Collectors and clients can explore and purchase available work directly through jonathankattine. com and follow his ongoing studio and photographic practice on Instagram at @jonathankattine_studio. For original works, commissions, and photography services, inquiries can be made directly at jonathankattinegallery@gmail.com.

Through both his studio practice and photography, Kattine aims to create not just images, but moments of recognition that encourage viewers to pause, observe, and find meaning in both the extraordinary and the everyday.

JONATHAN KATTINE

LAWLESS COAST BREWING:COASTAL CRAFT LEGACY

LOCAL ROOTS, BOLD BEER, AND A REBELLIOUS COASTAL SPIRIT

ARTICLE BY CARA VOSS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

As you travel just between Highway 98 and Scenic 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, Lawless Coast Brewing welcomes you with a blend of tradition, quality, and community. Founded by locals Josh Nesius and Chris Lane, the brewery is built on decades of friendship and a shared vision brought to life through persistence. What began as a passion for homebrewing evolved into a destination where every detail matters. From classic lagers to hop-forward IPAs, each pour reflects craftsmanship, authenticity, and a commitment to creating a space where locals and visitors alike can gather and connect.

Founded by longtime locals Josh Nesius and Chris Lane -Lawless Coast Brewing stands as a reflection of dedication, friendship, and a deep respect for the art of brewing. The brewery represents a vision years in the making—one that began with a childhood friendship and grew into a shared pursuit rooted in passion and purpose. Their journey officially took shape in 2019, when they began experimenting with homebrewing in Destin, turning a long-held idea into something tangible.

Bringing that vision to life came with no shortage of challenges. From pandemic-related shutdowns to construction delays and navigating licensing requirements, the path forward required patience and resilience. Rather than slowing them down, each obstacle strengthened their commitment to doing things the right way. Today, those experiences are part of the foundation of Lawless Coast Brewing, shaping a brand that values authenticity as much as quality.

The taproom itself reflects that same philosophy. Designed to feel open and inviting, the space features a long bar, comfortable seating, and an easygoing atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and stay awhile. Whether you’re stopping in after a day on the water or meeting friends for an evening out, the environment feels approachable and genuine—an extension of the community it serves.

At the heart of the brewery is a beer program grounded in tradition. Drawing inspiration from classic brewing styles, the lineup includes German-inspired lagers, English ales, and Irish stouts, all crafted with balance and precision.

Favorites like Rosco’s Hazy IPA bring bold, hop-forward flavor, while lighter selections such as Dune Lake, a coastal golden lager, offer a clean and refreshing finish. Each beer is thoughtfully developed, prioritizing quality ingredients and proven techniques over passing trends.

The story behind the name adds another layer of depth. In the late 1700s, settlers in what is now Walton County resisted outside authority following the transition from British to Spanish control. Refusing to conform, they were labeled ungovernable—a spirit that continues to inspire the identity of Lawless Coast Brewing today.

That sense of independence is woven into every detail, from the brewing approach to the welcoming atmosphere. Lawless Coast Brewing is more than a place to enjoy a drink—it’s a destination shaped by heritage, driven by perseverance, and defined by a commitment to excellence.

Stop in, grab a pint, and experience the spirit of the Lawless Coast for yourself at 350 S. Co. Hwy. 393, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459.

AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST

Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short

Creative Director: Jen Birn

Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill

Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX

MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.

After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.

Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?

A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”

THE QUIET STANDARD:

MIKE JOHNSON

“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”

— Mike Johnson

Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?

A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”

Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?

A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”

This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

MIKE JOHNSON

GIVE YOUR MAN

A Look at The Man Cave

ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS

Ok ladies, for those of you that live with your man and are not too keen on his collection of deer heads or affinity for all things Chicago Blackhawks, then let me help you create his very own man cave, that you and he can be proud of.

CONTINUED >

HIS SPACE

With how a man cave is usually done in mind, there are plenty of ways to make this hideaway both agreeable and full of style. I always start with what is most important to your man and 9 out of 10 times it is comfortable seating. So, with that in mind, I start with smart seating. Do we need a sectional? Can we get away with a cool reclining chair? Do we need Barstools? Comfortable, durable, and stylish seating is my jumping-off point.

COMFORTABLE SEATING

THE RIGHT TELEVISION

Next, of course, there will need to be a TV for gaming and/or sports watching. Try and get him the size he wants, if it can work in space and not be too obnoxious (ladies, you’ll thank me later) because this is all men truly care about. He gets his big TV, then you have more of an opportunity to get what you want in the rest of the house. It’s a win-win.

EXPRESSIVE DECOR

Lastly, without getting too “theme-y,” I organize what he loves and treasures into a gallery wall. I recently did one wall of really cool wallpaper for a husband that was a huge Star Wars fan. It was a black and white Star Wars print that gave this aficionado a fun way to bring his subject matter and style together.

No matter who you are or what you like, I believe every person needs a space where he or she can relax, breathe and be joyful in. Man Caves are no exception.

SCOTT STALLINGS’ WORKOUT

Like many impressionable kids with giddy enthusiasm for their favorite sport, Scott Stallings discovered his interest for golf at the young age of 3.

But it was the “aha moment” for his LOVE of the game that came in 1997 when Tiger Woods won the Masters and would forever change the entire landscape of the industry, as well as what Stallings would aspire to achieve in his future professional endeavors.

Upon realizing “that Woods wasn’t that much older than him,’’ Scott set himself into overdrive to “get it together” and tapped into his natural drive to be one of the best.

He trained his way through achieving allstate golfer and Dean’s List status in high school. He was a seven-time tournament winner and was an All-American while attending Tennessee Tech, and he has won on the PGA Tour three times as a professional golfer.

In 2016 he learned he had been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and acute adrenal fatigue. It was a result of some unhealthy nutritional habits, both of which affected his ability to continue effectively as a professional athlete.

“ GOLF IS A GRIND, BUT DON’T LET PHYSICALITY GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR GAME .”

With the guidance of doctors, surgeons, and his good friend Rich Froning, a four-time CrossFit champion, Scott developed a workout to trim 60 pounds, boasting 10% body fat, revising his daily eating habits, and sleeping healthily through the night.

“I came to the realization that it was no one’s fault but my own. The excuses and finger pointing led back to me, and once you take ownership, you take power in that,” Scott says.

“The voice within gave me some scary realizations that I always hated the doctor, and that they would tell me something was wrong. I learned a little information goes a long way, and that saved my health. Make one change today, and make another one tomorrow, and you’ll never look back.”

Had Scott not gone to the doctor because of that innate fear, he never would have known the diagnosis of sleep apnea that needed to be addressed.

“You only get one body,” he says.

Luckily for Scott, he didn’t have an overwhelming, crazy life overhaul. Instead, he was able to find one small thing, delivering simple systematic changes in his workout that led to his improvement in fitness and quality of life.

He still was driven to be one the best PGA Tour players and the best family guy he could be, and he would do all of the discovery, the surgeries, and the daily changes all over again to continue living his best life.

“I legitimately have some great people push me and stay around me,” Scott says.

Scott has traveled the world over, playing on some of the best courses around, from Augusta National twice, to courses across Asia, Europe, Australia, and the hope to cross the Middle East and more stunning destinations in New Zealand off his global travel list. His next “bucket list” trip?

Today, Scott happily shares healthy time with his wife and kids and is leading up The Scott Stallings Kids Play Free Junior Golf Initiative, a partnership with the Tennessee Golf Foundation to bring free junior golf to the Knoxville area.

THE WORKOUT BASICS :

KETTLEBELLS

Cast iron or cast steel ball with a handle attached to the top; ideal for exercises that combine cardio, strength and flexibility training.

BARS AND WEIGHTS

A long iron bar on which weight plates are placed. Weights come in a variety of styles, including weight plates, barbells and dumbbells.

DUMBBELLS

Short barbells, usually held in each hand

MEDICINE BALLS

Weighted balls roughly the diameter of the shoulders that are used for strength training and rehabilitation

STALLINGS’ PRIMARY EQUIPMENT: HIS TOP EXERCISES:

KETTLEBELL POWER SNATCH:

Uses ground force to leverage the kettlebell upward, then the shoulder, arm and back support the weight as it gets pushed overhead. Also a great cardio exercise and trains the body for a good golf swing.

KETTLEBELL HALO:

Start by holding the kettlebell upside down at chest height, then lift the weight to head height and rotate it around the head like a halo in both directions. This exercise focuses on shoulder mobility— which is important for a good golf swing— and warms up the muscles and soft tissue around the shoulder girdle.

CLEAN TO LUNGE:

First, the kettlebell is lifted from the ground to shoulder height. Then, the forward lunge loads weight into the legs one at a time, which happens from the backswing to the downswing. The exercise increases strength in calves and forearms, which is essential for a powerful swing.