Mount Juliet, TN March 2024

Home & Design, Nobility Home

RenovationsThe Dynamic Duo Your Home has Been Waiting for

HOME + DESIGN BROOKE’S ON MAIN- MEET THE WOMAN BEHIND ONE OF MOUNT JULIET’S FAVORITE HOT SPOTS FOR HOME AND DECOR

REAL ESTATE MELISSA KING- LIVE LIFE ON THE LAKE! MARCH 2024

Our goal is to provide top-notch care to all of our patients. We’re a locally owned, family business who pride ourselves on cutting edge technology and training so that we can bring the best care available to you and your family.

Photo Credit: Leigh Ann Remke Photography

A practice set apart from the rest.

We are not your typical law firm. We’re here to help with special needs trusts when your elderly family member might have special medical care needs or is placed in hospice. In addition, we offer more specialized services to make sure children are protected in all situations not only when parents die but if they ever become incapacitated; ensuring children are completely and confidently taken care of should a tragedy occur. We truly care.

March Home & Design Issue

Home. So much contained in that little four letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.”As we thought about home - we wanted to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That of course includes the food and drinks, the aesthetic and design, but most importantly - the people.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your city, neighborhood and most all of - your home. Be inspired by two local business owners that merged together creating Nobility Home Renovations, after praying for one another to create their ultimate vision of something greater they knew they could not do alone. Discover Mount Juliet's most unique Home store dazzled with the most elegant and modern lighting fixtures, furniture, and gifts! Learn about what our hometown sweetheart, "Weather Heather " is doing to make waves of change in her industry and for the betterment of our community and the greater Middle Tennessee.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

Happy March!

KIMBERLY THOMAS, PUBLISHER @MOUNTJULIETLIFESTYLE

March 2024

PUBLISHER

Kimberly Thomas | kimberly.thomas@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Cassidy Polman | cassidy.polman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kourtney McComb | kourtney.mccomb@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Courtney Stockton, Ed Atlas, Lisa Valentine, Cassidy Polman, Leslie Thompson, Melissa King

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kimberlee Brooke Photography, Lisa Valentine, Alan Adkins, House on a Hill Photography, Weston Sparks, Jeremy Cowart, Hannah Brown

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

DESIGNER Antanette Ray

business monthly

The Sugar Pea Fashion Exchange

Locally owned, The Sugar Pea Fashion Exchange is a proud member of the Chamber of Commerce and voted once again as the number one resale and consignment store in Wilson County by Main Street Media!

This local favorite is a “Ladies and Junior upscale resale shop specializing in selling designer clothing, handbags, jewelry and shoes at a fraction of retail!”

Location: 3384 N. Mt. Juliet Rd, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122

The Volunteer Network

TN Joins BridgeBuilding Collaboration

The Volunteer Network TN, First Baptist Lebanon, Compassionate Hands, and Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency (MCHRA) have all joined together to collaborate in a new Jobs Bus pilot program! “This initiative, which will begin on Feb. 5, provides guests from Compassionate Hands with reliable transportation to job opportunities right here in Lebanon!”- Volunteer Network TN. MCHRA is looking for dedicated drivers to make this vision a reality. Visit www.mchra.com to learn how you can help.

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Mt. Juliet Welcomes Sami Kincaid as Public Information Officer

The City of Mt. Juliet proudly welcomes Sami Kincaid as its new Public Information Officer (PIO), where she will serve alongside newly promoted Communications Director Justin Beasley. Following the appointment of Tyler Chandler to Deputy Police Chief, Kincaid will work in lockstep with the Mt. Juliet Police Department admin to continue to build upon the nationally respected MJPD brand that Chandler spearheaded more than a decade ago.

Photography provided by City of Mt. Juliet

DCA Announces Coach Jay Pierce as New Head Football Coach

Donelson Christian Academy is excited to announce the naming of Coach Jay Pierce as the next Head Football Coach for the Wildcats. Coach Pierce, a DCA graduate from the class of 2000, is excited to return to Joe Patterson Field and Ken Redmond Stadium. Visit www.dcawildcats.org for more information.

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Photography

World Class Care Right Where You Live

Where a patient starts their cancer journey matters. And here, that means Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Wilson County, where you will find the same world-renowned expertise and care of our Nashville campus without the drive. From screening and diagnosis, to treatment and recovery, patients receive all the care they need at one convenient location, close to home and family.

What’s more, we are the only cancer provider in the area that offers a full array of multi-disciplinary services, and the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center for both adults and children in Tennessee. So having the best care team and most advanced treatments is now closer than ever. Visit VanderbiltIngramCancerCenter.com or call 615-936-8422.

Making Personal Cancer Care

ARTICLE BY CASSIDY POLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Snow Days!

OUR PARNTERS SHARE THEIR SNOWIEST PICS FROM THIS YEAR’S FIRST SNOW

of Moss’ Flower Shop & Flower Delivery. Did you know this 3rd generation, family-owned flower shop has been serving Mt. Juliet for over 70 years?

Third Coast Salt owner, Shari Arnold, shares a photo of her children, Magnolia and Jack Ryman. Magnolia is a WCHS senior, and Jack Ryman is a WCHS sophomore.

Cumberland University’s Nokes-Lasater Field sits under a blanket of snow.

Top photo is the University’s iconic Memorial Hall. Fun Fact: The clocktower of Memorial Hall is Lebanon’s tallest landmark!

Cows from the iconic Knobblehurst Farm in Mt. Juliet brace for the snowy weather. Knobblehurst Farm has been in the Moss family since the early 1900’s, the same Moss Family that has owned Moss’ Flower shop for more than 7 decades!

An icy photo

Melissa King Group of Benchmark Realty’s Melissa King shares the snowy view from her home on Old Hickory Lake in Mt. Juliet. Fun Fact: Melissa King was born and raised in Nashville!

Photo provided

Photo

Pho

Photo credit: JoeyClark

Jamie Tyner of Volunteer Network TN snapped a snowy pic of her precious kiddos, Walker and Lindsay! Volunteer Network is a vital resource in connecting community volunteers to those in need.

Lifestyle photographer Leigh Ann Remke shares a pic of her adorable twins, Addie Kate and Caroline. The top photo is of Remke’s sweet horse, Blitz!  Remke makes it her job to capture life’s sweetest moments, even the snowy ones!

The amazing Lawns by Luke crew hard at work cleaning commercial lots in the snow! Did you know Lawns by Luke was named after owners John and Allison’s son, Luke?

Antonakos,

Brooke’s On Main, enjoying the snow with her family- husband, Tyler and two daughters, Callie and Ryann.

Brooke’s On Main in Mt. Juliet even looks good in the snow! The locally owned furniture and home decor store sets the standard for the latest home designs.

Brooke

owner of

Photo credit:LeighAnn

Photo

Photo credit: LeighAnnRemke

We sat down with Mt. Juliet local and MTSU alumna, Brooke Antonakos, to learn more about her journey to finding her true calling as owner of one of Middle Tennessee’s favorite hot spots for home decor and design, Brooke’s On Main.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO OPEN A FURNITURE STORE THAT FOCUSES ON AESTHETICS AND INTERIOR DESIGN?

My husband and I took a chance and invested in our first Airbnb in Florida during Covid. We did an entire flip in 6 days. (I do not recommend a 6 day flip EVER. We were crazy and worked 18 hour days to get the job done.) But what doesn't kill you makes you stronger right? It was a fun project that led to designing a Nashville Airbnb and requests for more design work. Designing spaces was creatively fulfilling but I thought of it more as a hobby than a career path at first.

After my second Airbnb, I had enough experience with online shopping and the inconsistencies that came with that. I remember getting one green velvet chair that the back literally slid into place and was held on with 1 screw. I knew I was done with buying things that way.

So, I decided I was going to start a warehouse business and sell furniture to people a few times a month so that I could get great deals for those Airbnb clients. And then it sort of snowballed. I ended up finding a space I loved on

the Lebanon Square (That’s where “On Main” came from.) But another business beat us to the punch. We looked at some other spaces but eventually reached out to Mark Lineberry and he had the perfect spot. The building already matched my logo and aesthetic, and I just knew it was where I was meant to be. We decided to add lighting, and then wallpaper, and accents, and gifts, and well…you get what I mean by snowball.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST MOTIVATOR?

Well, I have a few motivators. A spiritual motivator, I truly feel BOM is a calling. And callings have various sides to them. I tried to talk myself out of it, out of the risk and all the work that goes into starting a brick and mortar. But there was a voice inside that kept pushing me...pushing me to share in creativity with others, to build community, and to use the success to help others. I want to help our clients create spaces they feel joy in, and spaces that highlight what is important to them. From a coffee table book that highlights a hobby to a sofa that's custom-made for family movie nights. We all have different desires, and it is important for me to help clients identify what speaks to them and inspires them.  That is when you know furniture is worth the investment.

My motivator in human form would absolutely be my husband, Tyler. He is an entrepreneur in every sense of the word, and my

greatest champion. He has always pushed me to bet on myself, something that does not come naturally to me. BOM would simply not exist without him.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE BOM?

A breath of fresh air. I love seeing the smiles on people's faces when they enter the store. I love it when I hear, "This makes me want to redo everything." What I think people mean by that is, they love the way intentional design makes them feel. And the truth is, you don't have to redo everything to get a great look.

Great design is all in how it makes you feel. For example, I have customers that come in and want EVERYTHING in velvet. I too share that same affection. But I have just as many people who come in and say they cannot stand the thought of touching velvet. And they are both right. We all have unique styles & different ideas of the perfect space.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE LOOKING TO ADD TO THEIR HOME'S INTERIOR STYLE?

My hope is that when someone thinks of redesigning a space they think of BOM as their first stop. That they would want to start and end with us. We are here to serve as a trusted source for design inspiration, product knowledge, and fair pricing on high-quality pieces.

Don't spend a ton of time looking at designer images, just focus on what you need piece by piece. Every addition should feel good and exciting. It's important to not look at it like a big project you have to finish.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADD ANYTHING ELSE?

I’d be lying if I said that pulling this business off hasn’t been the biggest test of my endurance and courage. My background was in developing artists and songwriters in the music industry. My identity was wrapped up in that. Humbling myself enough to start over in a new industry was a huge test for me. I’m a perfectionist and no matter how hard you work, you are not perfect out of the gate. But the same voice inside that pushed me here feels like it’s saying, “There is something great ahead.” And I want to be bold enough to follow that.

I’M A PERFECTIONIST AND NO MATTER HOW HARD YOU WORK, YOU ARE NOT PERFECT OUT OF THE GATE. BUT THE SAME VOICE INSIDE THAT PUSHED ME HERE FEELS LIKE IT’S SAYING, “THERE IS SOMETHING GREAT AHEAD.” AND I WANT TO BE BOLD ENOUGH TO FOLLOW THAT.

Photo credit: Brooke Antonakos

Photo credit: Hannah Brown

LOCAL LIMELIGHT | HOME + DESIGN

ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STOCKTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Perhaps it’s because she’s of the community, that she fights for the community. You may know Heather Mathis as, “Weather Heather,” host of Talk of the Town for NewsChannel 5! What you may not know about her, is that she’s a community advocate and has effectuated change that will save an immeasurable amount of lives. Not many meteorologists can put that on their resume.

How “Weather Heather” helped make Mt. Juliet a safer place

Mathis in Clarksville covering the recent December tornado aftermath.

Photo credit: Alan Adkins - WTVF

“I have always had a fascination with tornadoes.”

And she’s one of our very own. “I am very proud to be a Mt. Juliet native,” Mathis says, as she recalls the local schools that shaped her. She attended both Stoner Creek Elementary and West Wilson Middle School, which sadly, were both decimated by the tornado in March of 2020. Spending one’s childhood in a town where extreme weather occurs can be, perhaps unsurprisingly, formative. “I have always had a fascination with tornadoes. I was in elementary school during the April 1998 tornado that hit Nashville, and I can still remember watching NewsChannel 5’s coverage of the storm and the aftermath.” Mt. Juliet did not simply prepare her for professional endeavors by being a hotbed for inclement weather – she recalls a ‘wonderful’ broadcasting class that she took at Mt. Juliet High School, which she credits with making her, “fall in love with live television” and ultimately lead her to pursue a career in broadcast meteorology.

Though she spent some time working in Huntsville, Alabama, she eventually returned home to join NewsChannel 5. The time she spent in Huntsville would prove to be impactful as well. As Mathis explains, “Alabama had a very well-defined community shelter program in place that was created after the deadly 2011 tornadoes. I was so used to directing my viewers in Huntsville to their local shelters during tornado coverage, that I was surprised when I came back home to Tennessee that we didn’t have any community storm shelters in most of our counties.”

This was the impetus for Mathis to reflect on what needed to change in the community – and she took it as a call to action. She recounts, “I get so many messages from people who live in mobile homes during severe weather, asking me what they should do or where they can go. I was tired of never having a good answer for them, so I made it my mission to find out

Mathis in Clarksville covering the recent December totrnado aftermath.

Photo credit: Alan Adkins - WTVF

why we were lacking shelters in our state and how to fix the problem.”

One of the prevailing problems, as it turns out, was liability. Mathis soon learned when she began investigating, “Most community storm shelters are churches, however, after talking with several Emergency Management offices, I learned that most churches didn’t want to open their doors because of liability and insurance concerns.” Once she understood the problem, she started discussing the issue with community leaders and through networking, was connected with Representative Jason Powell. Powell marshaled his political wherewithal to introduce the Safer Places Bill, to help eliminate liability and incentivize organizations to open their doors to the public during severe weather.

The bill was passed in April 2023, and its effects are still being realized. Nashville’s Metro Council recently passed a resolution honoring Mathis and the Safe Places program for the incredible potential it has to save lives across the community. Additionally, each metro council member has agreed to find a ‘Safe Place’ in their district that can be added to the list.

To that end, though the Safer Places Bill has passed, the battle isn’t over. The Safer Places Bill laid the foundation to create a climate in which brick and mortars could open their doors without fear of financial or reputational harm, but the process of making these organizations aware of the legislation, and persuading them to help, is still ongoing. There is a list of ‘safe places’ that are currently available on NewsChannel 5’s website, but there

Top: Mathis in Clarksville covering the recent December tornado aftermath.

Photo credit: Alan Adkins - WTVF

Bottom: Mathis in Clarksville covering the recent December tornado aftermath.

Photo credit: Alan Adkins - WTVF

“Our greatest calling is to protect people and walk them through the scary moments.”

can never be enough participants. And Mathis has her sights set on a grander scale. “Right now, our Safe Places list will help our viewers across Middle Tennessee. This is a great first step, but I would like to see more community shelters open on a statewide level. Tennessee ranks #1 in the country for nocturnal tornadoes. That factored with our high percentage of population living in vulnerable housing means we need to act now.”

It’s evident in everything Mathis does, that she cares deeply about our community — to the point that she took her civic duty to the next level. “I believe our greatest calling as meteorologists is to help protect people in storms and walk them through the scary moments,” she says. And that she did – and does. Though “Weather Heather” is a charming TV personality, she is clearly so much more than that. You might even say, she’s ‘a force of nature.’

Heather Mathis holding the Resolution passed by Metro Council honoring her work on Safe Places.

The Intersection of Vision and Execution

ARTICLE BY ED ATLAS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLEE BROOKE & CO.

“We’re a Christian-owned company and proud of our faith,” adds Amanda. “We always ask if we can bless the project and no one has ever said, ‘no.’ I love that.”

With a designer’s eye for style and function, and a contractor’s sense for efficiency and punctuality, Amanda Adams and Chris Madison have turned home remodels into well-orchestrated endeavors.

After collaborating on numerous projects, a year ago they decided to combine their vision and execution into a single entity: Nobility Home Renovations.

“I met Amanda from a referral when I was staging a flip house,” says Madison. “She staged one of my properties, and I kept thinking that it makes more sense to do this as a team. I asked if she was interested, and she told me she had been praying for a contractor she could work with!”

“I’ve had great relationships with contractors but never with one who wanted to collaborate the way Chris does,” says Adams. “Remodeling can be stressful; so much is on the line for both of us. And if Chris says he’s going to do something, he’s going to do it.”

Their respective life experiences likely prepared them for this partnership. Madison, a Mount Juliet native, attended Nashville Auto Diesel College. He was a mechanic for years before moving to the service, managing more than 115 fleet accounts. Along the way he started flipping houses and decided to become a remodeling contractor when he “got tired of hearing people say they can’t get anyone to show up to do the work,” he says. “Being a fleet manager prepared me for project management. I learned to multitask, plan and coordinate. The skillsets transferred seamlessly.”

As a child in a military family, Adams grew up all over the country and was inspired by the different types of architecture she saw. “Architecture and interiors can change from state-to-state and city-to-city,” she says. “Having moved so much,

I began to understand the importance of making it a home.

“When I was little, I would get out my notebook, sketch the house, designate where furniture should go, and show it to the movers. Essentially, I was doing interior design without knowing it and certainly didn’t know that it could be a career.” She started along that path by studying interior design at Western Michigan University.

At Nobility, Amanda and Chris move together as one unit. They meet with clients for an initial consultation where ideas are exchanged, and objectives are understood. “We take detailed notes including ‘before’ pictures and I’ll do a scan of the home’s floorplan,” says Amanda. “As with any large-scale project, certain issues can arise that affect the cost. But we can provide a fairly accurate ‘guestimate’ within 24 hours.”

Once agreements are signed, their vision and execution jump to the forefront.

Except for one detail. Before the job begins, the Nobility team and their clients pause for a prayer.

“On day one of the demo, we pray for a smooth and safe process,” says Madison.

“We’re a Christian-owned company and proud of our faith,” adds Amanda. “We always ask if we can bless the project and no one has ever said, ‘no.’ I love that.”

Of course, when the remodel is complete, it’s time to celebrate with a gift basket of champagne and chocolates for the clients.

“Ninety-nine percent of the jobs we’ve finished conclude with a hug,” says Madison. “We had a lady tell us she was going to cry because she would miss us. Money is great but that hug makes for a great day.”

NobilityHomeRenovations.com

Loneliness, Isolation, Belonging, and Hobbies

LOCAL PODCAST EXPLORES HOW SHARED INTEREST FOSTERS CONNECTION IN TROUBLED TIMES.

ARTICLE BY LESLIE THOMPSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A local child aids in cleanup efforts.

Photo by: House on a Hill Photography

Photo by: House on a Hill Photography

If you’re a Middle Tennessee resident, March of 2020 is significant not only because of the COVID pandemic–it’s when an Ef-5 tornado touched down and stayed on the ground for over 60 miles.

Anyone who lived in Mt. Juliet during that time period will remember the sudden alarms waking us overnight–perhaps the scramble to the basement or windowless room–and finally, the rumble of the storm followed by silence. My family felt the weight of this tragedy, as the line was less than a mile from our home. In combination with the derecho winds in April, we lost over 30 trees. Many lost more, some even lost their lives.

It was in the surreal stillness in the days following the tornado that Mt. Juliet discovered the strength of its community through connection. Our community’s cooperation is a testament to the spirit that emerges in the face of extreme adversity…like experiencing a devastating storm on the precipice of a global pandemic.

The dichotomy of these two events has never been lost on me: one necessitated isolation and separation, and the other required connection, community, and in-person interaction over the months of cleanup. I met new neighbors at a time when others were losing connection with theirs.

Future studies of how the pandemic affected society will be telling, but we assume some of the outworkings of it: we are more isolated as a people. And yet, this loss of connection wasn’t totally due to COVID-19. In fact, a 2023 report from the Surgeon General found that loneliness had become an epidemic even before the pandemic.

The statistics on loneliness are shocking and troubling. According to a 2023 report from the U.S. Surgeon General, lacking connection results in:

• 29% increased risk of heart disease

• 32% increased risk of stroke

• 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults.

The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated existing feelings of isolation, and the situation is critical.

Our household knows this severity intimately: as a fitness coach based in Mt. Juliet, my husband works with people who want to live healthier lives—but health isn’t isolated to our physical bodies. Health is holistic: it’s inclusive of body, mind, and soul. He hears stories daily of isolated, lonely folks desperately seeking a healthier life. This is indeed a human crisis.

And what’s the antidote to this dire prognosis? Connected community, it seems. The research is clear: The more connected we are, the happier we are and the healthier we are. It’s not reductive, it’s just statistically true. The Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, is even going so far as to develop an entire national campaign encouraging social interaction to save humanity. Dr. Murthy calls social connectedness “medicine that's hiding in plain sight.” He explains, “It's what we need to take advantage of and to cultivate in this moment where too many people are struggling with loneliness.”

(1) He’s identified the importance of social connection as a means to combat this loneliness epidemic. The kind of connection that we found for ourselves in Middle Tennessee in the aftermath of the storms. As we worked side by side clearing debris, mending roofs, and restoring a semblance of normalcy, a tangible sense of community emerged. In the face of a real threat, we were not alone. Strangers became neighbors, loneliness transformed into camaraderie, and the isolation of the pandemic gave way to a newfound sense of belonging.

Perhaps we will find that our experiences throughout the 2020 storms and pandemic will lead to new ways of living, working, and being. Restaurant owners have adapted to new takeout and delivery methods, churches and community centers have added and maintained online offerings and found new needs in the community, schools have adopted new principles for e-learning, and many of us spend more time at home during work hours. Despite advances in technology and interactions like these, the statistics remain undeniable: we must find ways to connect with others. Even when it’s complex, dynamic, and messy.

“The more connected we are, the happier we are and the healthier we are. It’s not reductive, it’s just statistically true.”

“We must find ways to connect with others. Even when it’s complex, dynamic, and messy.”

Photo by: House on a Hill Photography

Photo by: House on a Hill Photography

My own observations in this season laid the foundation for a new creative project: a podcast born out of a desire to understand and celebrate the threads that bind us. The podcast, titled Niche to Meet You, explores the profound impact hobbies and niche subcultures have on combating our societal loneliness.

It’s easy to assume that hobbies are “little” things–unimportant, silly, frivolous. But many of us find that the “little” things in life are perhaps the most profound of them all. The “little” things that construct meaning and purpose for us don’t just provide health benefits, they remind us that we are all part of a larger whole. When we learn more about other people’s unique interests, we better appreciate the world around us and we can embrace and celebrate our differences. We find belonging in a sea of loneliness. I’ve learned that hobbies–like tabletop war games transformed into Amazon film franchises, portraying Santa, and dog sledding–not only enrich our individual experiences but also foster connection among diverse communities. It’s a reminder that, just as Nashville emerged from the debris stronger and more connected, so too can individuals find solace in the shared passions that weave them together.

Undoubtedly, the things we all learned in 2020 will lead to new ways of connectedness as we navigate the complexities of a society that, at times, feels adrift. The Surgeon General is issuing a call for societal change. He’s urging public forums, spaces, and influencers to encourage connection in real, physical ways that change the world.

But that change isn’t just for our individual selves: it certainly starts there, but it should ultimately spread. Dr. Murthy even mentions community service as one of the most powerful ways to combat loneliness. Our lives and health depend on understanding that we are not alone in this world and that we all matter. I’ve seen this to be true while I’ve worked on my podcast, as episodes and featured stories not only reflect the transformative power of shared interests–and the potential for hobbies to become catalysts for understanding, appreciation,

and connection–but explore how that connectedness helps others.

For example, in meeting folks who portray Santa and Mrs. Claus, I learned that the actual involvement in the hobby (for many, the profession!) is useless on its own–it’s only fulfilling because it helps others by bringing joy and hope to those who are in desperate need of it. Because of this, the Niche to Meet You podcast encourages connectedness one step further by partnering with a local nonprofit, My Bag, My Story, to provide bags for children in foster care who would otherwise carry their belongings in plastic bags. What good is personal health experienced in a vacuum?

Isolation is not good for us, but there is hope beyond our loneliness. Hope like what was found in 2020 in our own town as we served our neighbors selflessly. Strangers with skid-steers appeared at our house to carry logs to the pile of brush on our cul-de-sac, volunteers were sent out in droves.

In my reflection on the last two years while researching for this podcast, I found an op-ed in the Washington Post written by Danté Stewart, whose search for connection led him to a similar conclusion—that despite our bend toward individualism, we have no better weapon to fight isolation than ourselves. Stewart puts it beautifully here: “I’ve come to believe that being together — in a coffee shop, at a concert, in a church, at a bar, outside, inside, day, night — is one of the greatest tools of our resistance and defense…It is the people. It has always been the people.” (2)

In celebrating our differences and embracing the common threads that bind us, we can move beyond the wreckage of storms and disease, toward a future defined by connection, understanding, and the shared joy of being part of something greater than ourselves.

(1)https://www.npr.org/transcripts/1173418268  (2)https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/08/16/dante-stewart-post-pandemic-covid-loneliness-coffeeshop/

Leslie Thompson is a multifaceted podcast producer, writer, and creative media consultant based in Mt. Juliet. Leslie’s latest podcast, Niche to Meet You, explores little-known hobbies and niche subcultures (WWW.NICHETOMEETYOU.SHOW).

Left: Leslie Thompson, Photography by: Jeremy Cowart

Desert Décor

ARTICLE

Lisa Valentine

Home to some of the most beautiful interior décor, it’s near impossible to take a trip to Morocco without coming back with a suitcase full of exquisite treasures—believe me, I had to buy an extra bag to bring home all of my finds. Situated in Northeast Africa, the country of Morocco is made up of a variety of people groups who are known for their own styles of home furnishings. From textiles and glass to pottery and tile, the country is filled with stunning handmade pieces that add pops of color and design to any space.

It’s hard not to be left speechless, stepping into a traditional riad accommodation. Brightly colored tiles covering almost every surface, a rainbow of fabrics making up the plush seating, and interior courtyards comprised of tranquil pools and fountains typically make up this often open-air lodging.

Morocco is widely known for its finely made rugs. While the different colors and patterns of the rugs make them unique, what is equally fascinating is the materials in which they are made and how they relate to the geographical home of the artisans who make them. For instance, rugs made by people living in the Atlas Mountains tend to be softer because they are often made of cactus silk and sheep’s wool which are prevalent in the area, while rugs made in the Sahara Desert tend to be rougher because they are made from yarn made of camel hair. While these rugs are perfect on the floor of any room, they can also be hung as wall décor or even used as decorative bedding accents. Likewise, a unique green glazed pottery is created right outside of the Sahara Desert in the village of Tamegroute, and pottery items painted in black and white patterns are the signature style of the Berber people.

Weaving through the winding alleyways of the souks—outdoor markets—in cities such as Marrakech and Fes will also bring you across lamp shops brimming with colorful glass and metal lamps of every hue and shape imaginable. From hanging light fixtures to table lamps, this is a great way to incorporate beautiful Moroccan stained glass and lighting into your home.  CONTINUED >

The city of Fes is best known for its famous tannery, where they use a natural process to dye leather into bright colors. Through this natural process, pigeon droppings and limestone are used to strip the hides of their natural color and create a white base to prepare the leather to be dyed. Rather than using chemical-based dyes, the array of colors used to dye the leather at the tannery come straight from the earth. With flowers and herbs being transformed into dyes, the plain leather is then transformed into a rainbow of varying hues- shades of red derived from poppies, greens from mint, and blues from indigo.

One of the most striking features of Moroccan architecture and design is the widespread use of tile to cover any surface imaginable. From floor to ceiling, the most vibrant tiles arranged in the most intricate patterns can be seen everywhere you look in the country. In places such as Ben Youssef Madrasa, a former Islamic school, the words of the Muslim holy book are painted in decorative script on the walls becoming both practical and part of the design. Furthermore, even the wood doors are carved with intricate patterns that are simply mesmerizing.

From every rooftop view to alleyway in Morocco, there is something stunning for the eye to behold. A travel tip to anyone heading to Morocco, pack your suitcase and then take out half of your stuff and leave it at home because I can guarantee, you’ll be coming back with lots of functional souvenirs to decorate your home. It is all too beautiful to pass up!

TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE INTO A

ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

New York Times Best Selling Author and Netflix Producer, Dan Buettner, Inspires a Better Life Based on Research from the World’s Healthiest Cultures.

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!

Follow @DanBuettner and @BlueZones for full insights and visit BlueZones.com to shop exclusive products.

MELISSA KING GROUP OF BENCHMARK REALTY, LLC TAKES US TO OLD HICKORY LAKE

ARTICLE BY MELISSA KING PHOTOGRAPHY BY WESTON SPARKS, NEXT DOOR PHOTOS

Absolutely stunning Old Hickory lakefront Cape Cod home. High-end finishes and features throughout. This home has been completely renovated inside and out. Luxurious lakefront living at its finest!!

Living the Lake Life: Open House

HOME HIGHLIGHTS:

• 4496 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom

• 3 car garage

• Recent home upgrades include:Tankless gas hot water heater 2022Upstairs HVAC 2022, Downstairs HVAC 2014Spray foam insulation in attic 2022Exterior Shaker Shingle Siding 2023Second Sunroom addition 2023Outdoor lighting and Boat Dock upgrades 2023

• Open-concept kitchen/dining area with exposed beams and brick gas fireplace.  Chef’s kitchen includes commercial grade Frigidaire refrigerator/freezer, 2 drawer beverage refrigerator, wine chiller, six burner Electrolux Icon gas stove, double ovens, pantry, leather granite countertops, trash compactor, dishwasher, and double filtered sink faucets.

• Spacious main-level sunroom with gas fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows with motorized roller shades provides a perfect view of the lake and the pool.  A second sunroom was added just below this one on the lower level and steps out to the pool and outdoor kitchen area.

• The main level primary suite boasts lofty ceilings, a

cozy gas fireplace, and a luxury walk-in dressing room featuring a built-in vanity. The opulent bathroom showcases a sizable jacuzzi tub, a separate double-head shower, and elegant double vanities, creating a luxurious and comfortable retreat.

• Fully finished basement (or in-law suite) with kitchenette and beautiful brick gas fireplace, newly added sunroom, bedroom, full bathroom, and additional flex space for music studio, shop, or a playroom.

• This home is complete with a private backyard oasis featuring a pool with full wrap-around composite decking that connects to the upper-level deck and the covered outdoor kitchen.

• The landscaping is beautifully lighted with gorgeous trees, partial fencing, and a fire pit.  Pack the coolers and follow the walkway to your own covered boat dock complete with water supply, electricity, and a boat lift.  You can hang in your own private Langford cove or head out to the main channel and explore all the lake has to offer.

Come visit us at Old Hickory Lake!!

FEBRUARY 29TH-MARCH 2ND

Spring/Summer MJ Kids Consignment Sale

Mt. Juliet Church of God

Gymnasium 495 N. Mt. Juliet Rd, Mt. Juliet | 8:00 AM

"After many wonderful sales at MJCA, a new season is here and we are continuing our great sale with a new name and a new location. Don't worry, almost everything else will stay the same. We can't wait to see our consignors and are excited to have a great sale once again!"- MJ Kids Consignment Sale. For consignment and sale info, visit www.mjkidsconsignment.org

MARCH 3RD, 8TH-10TH, 15TH, 23RD & 28TH

The Capitol Theatre

The Capitol Theatre 110 W Main St, Lebanon, TN | 9:00 AM

Upcoming Events at the Capitol Theatre:

• March 3rd- The Doo Wops.

• March 8th- The Sternwheelers.

• March 9th- She Will: a one-day Christian women's conference.

• March 10th- Nashville Irish Step Dancers Present: Celtic Rhythms on Fire.

• March 15th- DOMINE Pink Floyd Tribute.

• March 23rd- Audience of One Cabaret Fundraiser: A Night on Broadway.

• March 28th- Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

MARCH 9TH Nashville

Nashville, TN | 8:30

White House of Beauty

at Glow Wilco for all your aesthetic needs!

MARCH 13TH-17TH

Bridgestone Arena hosts 2024 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament

501 Broadway Nashville, TN | 12:00 PM

“The 2024 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament heads to Nashville, TN as Bridgestone Arena hosts the annual celebration of SEC hoops March 13-17! Catch all the action and be there as the conference’s top student-athletes battle it out for the tournament title. For more information on the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament visit  SECsports.com.” -- bridgestonearena.com, visit for event and ticket information.

MARCH 17TH

Sip Cocktail Co Presents Mixology ClassesSt. Patrick's Day Fun

2803 Foster Ave, 2803 Foster Avenue, Nashville | 1:00 PM

Join Sip Cocktail Co for a fun cocktail-making experience for St. Patrick's Day Fun! What’s included:

- Welcome glass of bubbly

- 3 Full-Size cocktails and Ingredients to make them

Visit www.sipcocktailco.com for more information and tickets.

- Local small bites

- Breaks in between each drink for you to enjoy your drinks, company and photobooth

MARCH 21ST

Adventure Science Center Hosts Third Thursday 18+ Special Event

800 FORT NEGLEY BLVD. NASHVILLE, TN 37203 | 4:30 PM

"Want to get crafty in the i2 Makerspace, take a spin in the motion simulator, or catch a planetarium show? This is a great opportunity to enjoy a night of adventure, learning, and fun exclusively for the 18+ crowd that knows how to engage the child in all of us."- www.adventuresci.org, visit for more information and tickets.