We’re joined by Austin Ray, owner of M.L.Rose and a longtime leader in Nashville’s hospitality scene. With the newest M.L.Rose (location #8!) opening soon on Medical Center Parkway in Murfreesboro, Austin sits down with us to share the story behind the brand, his roots, and what makes M.L.Rose such a beloved neighborhood spot.

In this episode, we cover:

🍔 The grand opening of the new Murfreesboro M.L.Rose on November 24th
🏙️ Austin’s Nashville + Murfreesboro family history
📚 How his hospitality journey began (and how he didn’t fit in corporate interviews)
🍻 Opening his first bar in the Gulch before it was even the Gulch
😂 Hilarious early-days stories — including Peyton Manning checking IDs at the door
🏡 What makes M.L.Rose “the heartbeat of the neighborhood”
🤝 Why community, connection, and people are the true core of their business
🔥 The smell of burgers hitting the grill for the first time in a new restaurant
🐶 The “kid & dog corral” and design choices that make guests feel at home
❤️ Love stories, friendships, and even marriages that started inside an M.L.Rose
👥 Their incredible team culture and the long-term staff who’ve grown with the brand
🍺 Supporting hyper-local brewers like Cedar Glade and offering 36 taps at every location

Whether you love local restaurants, Murfreesboro growth, or inspiring entrepreneur stories, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and great behind-the-scenes moments.

#murfreesborotn #murfreesboro #podcast #restaurant

In this powerful and deeply informative episode, we sit down with Dena O’Neal, a passionate advocate and educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, to talk about her personal and professional journey with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

From fundraising stories and family experiences to the latest breakthroughs in research and treatment, Dena shares real insight into how Alzheimer’s affects not only those diagnosed but also their families and caregivers. She breaks down the different types of dementia, the warning signs to look for, and what resources are available including free programs, state respite care, and how the Alzheimer’s Association provides support through education, research funding, and 24/7 hotlines.

You’ll also hear touching personal stories about her grandparents and other family members who battled the disease, and how those experiences drive her work today. Whether you’re a caregiver, have a loved one affected, or simply want to understand more about this complex disease, this conversation offers hope, education, and practical guidance.

*Key Topics Covered:*

* How to recognize early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia
* The difference between Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
* New breakthroughs in research and treatment options
* How to find free local and national resources for families and caregivers
* Dina’s personal story and what inspired her to become an advocate

*Helpful Links:*
🌐 Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org
📞 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900

*About This Episode:*
Filmed in Murfreesboro Tennessee, this interview highlights the importance of community education, research funding, and compassion in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

#murfreesborotn #murfreesboro #podcast #alzheimer #dementia

In this episode, we sit down with Murfreesboro City Councilwoman, attorney, business owner, and all-around powerhouse Jami Averwater, a true modern Renaissance woman. From launching one of the area’s fastest-growing title companies to serving her community as a municipal judge and council member, Jami shares how she balances it all: career, family, faith, and public service.

We dive into her journey, growing up in Eagleville, starting Hywater Title from a card table during COVID, her passion for politics, and how she manages to juggle so many roles with grace (and caffeine!). Jami also talks about marriage, motherhood, community involvement, and the importance of knowing which “balls” in life are glass and which are plastic.

👉 Topics Covered:

– Building a successful business from scratch
– The road from law school to public office
– Time management, family life, and finding balance
– Eagleville pride & serving as municipal judge
– Her philosophy on work, wellness, and life’s priorities

Grab your coffee and join us for this fun, insightful, and inspiring conversation with one of Rutherford County’s most dynamic women.

📍 Guest: Jami Averwater
🏛️ Murfreesboro City Council | Owner, Hywater Title | Attorney | Municipal Judge

#murfreesborotn #murfreesboro #podcast