Messages of Positivity

Empowering Women in Home Inspections: A Conversation with Kimi McBurney

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1264904/open_sms] In this episode of the Messages of Positivity podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kimi McBurney, a dynamic member of our BNI group and co-owner of a home inspection company in Western North Carolina. Kimi brings a wealth of experience to the table, having grown up in a construction family and transitioned into the home inspection industry alongside her husband. We began our conversation by exploring Kimi's background and how her upbringing in a construction environment naturally led her to start her own home inspection business in 2017. She shared insights into the importance of offering comprehensive services, including radon mitigation, to create a one-stop shop for clients. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also reduces costs and potential delays associated with subcontracting. As we delved deeper, we discussed the gender dynamics within the home inspection industry, which is traditionally male-dominated. Kimi candidly addressed the challenges she faces as a female home inspector and how she has surprisingly received more requests for female inspectors than she anticipated. This led to a broader discussion about the importance of detail-oriented work in home inspections and how her team, which includes both men and women, collaborates effectively. We also touched on the significance of marketing in today's digital age. Kimi emphasized the necessity of having a strong social media presence and how it plays a crucial role in staying top of mind for potential clients. She shared her experiences with networking, referrals, and the unique challenges of building a home inspection business primarily through word-of-mouth rather than paid leads. In light of the recent challenges posed by Hurricane Helene, Kimi recounted how her business adapted to serve the community during a time of crisis. By offering storm damage assessments and water testing, they were able to support clients while maintaining their business operations. Her commitment to helping others was evident, as she shared how they raised over $30,000 to provide at-cost services to those in need. As a mother of two and a business owner, Kimi discussed the balance between her professional and personal life. She highlighted the importance of having a support system and leveraging resources to manage her responsibilities effectively. Her insights into homeschooling and the flexibility of being self-employed resonated with the challenges many face in balancing work and family life. To wrap up our conversation, I asked Kimi to share a piece of advice for high school students. Her response focused on the importance of financial literacy and saving money, a lesson she wished she had learned earlier in life. This episode is filled with valuable insights on entrepreneurship, community involvement, and the importance of adaptability in the face of challenges. I hope you enjoy listening to Kimi's inspiring story as much as I enjoyed having her on the show.

Navigating Business Growth: My Journey with BNI and Medicare Sales

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1264904/open_sms] In this episode of the Messages of Positivity podcast, I, Norman Morris, take a different approach by sharing my journey in Medicare sales and how a networking group called Business Network International (BNI) has significantly impacted my business growth. I begin by providing a background on my career, which started in 2015 selling Medicare products, including Medicare Advantage plans and supplements. I reflect on the challenges I faced before the COVID-19 pandemic, detailing the traditional methods of generating leads, such as cold calling and door knocking. These methods were often frustrating due to inaccurate lead lists and the grind of reaching out to potential clients with little return on investment. As the pandemic hit, the sales landscape changed dramatically. With restrictions on in-person meetings and heightened fears around door-to-door interactions, I found myself struggling to connect with clients. I recount a humorous yet telling experience of how my size could intimidate potential clients, especially during these uncertain times. In search of a solution, I turned to networking as a way to build connections and grow my business. Despite being naturally shy and having Asperger's, which presents its challenges in social situations, I was encouraged by a friend to join a BNI group. I explain how BNI operates, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration among members, and how it provided a more intimate setting for networking compared to larger organizations. Initially, I joined a developing chapter that, unfortunately, dissolved after a year. However, I was later invited to join another BNI chapter called Mountain Synergy, which turned out to be a welcoming and supportive environment. I share how the group helped me build relationships and trust, which are crucial in my niche market of Medicare sales. Despite the slow start in generating referrals, I persevered and learned the value of patience and networking. After a year and a half, a breakthrough occurred when a fellow member referred me to a potential client, leading to a significant opportunity to work with a local office. This connection not only helped grow my business but also allowed me to provide referrals to other members of my BNI group, creating a mutually beneficial network. Throughout the episode, I emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, being open to learning, and the value of community support in business. I encourage listeners, especially those who may feel shy or uncertain about networking, to consider joining a group like BNI. I conclude with a heartfelt message about pursuing one's passion and the importance of doing what you love, as it leads to a fulfilling life. I remind everyone that time is a precious commodity, and when spent on something you are passionate about, it never feels wasted. Thank you for tuning in, and remember, the choice to make it a great day is yours!

Making a Difference: The Impact of Feeding the Multitude with Nikki Gasperson

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1264904/open_sms] In this episode of Messages of Positivity, I had the privilege of interviewing Nikki Gasperson, the coordinator of Feeding the Multitude in Canton, North Carolina. Nikki shared her inspiring journey of transitioning from a career in law and the mortgage industry to dedicating her life to running a nonprofit food distribution organization. Nikki's story is one of resilience and compassion as she navigates the challenges of caring for her family while managing the day-to-day operations of Feeding the Multitude. She shared how the organization started as Rose of Sharon in response to devastating floods in the county and later evolved into Feeding the Multitude, a nonprofit focused on providing food to those in need. Throughout the episode, Nikki highlighted the importance of volunteers in making the organization successful and emphasized the impact of community support in helping those facing food insecurity. She discussed the increase in demand for food assistance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the challenges of sourcing and distributing food to meet the growing need. Nikki's dedication to serving others was evident as she described the annual Christmas event, where thousands of families are provided with food and essentials. She also shared her outreach efforts in multiple states, showcasing the organization's commitment to helping those in need beyond their local community. The episode concluded with Nikki's powerful advice to approach every situation as if it were your last, leaving a lasting impression of kindness and compassion. Overall, Nikki's story serves as a reminder of the impact one person can make in the lives of others through selfless acts of generosity and care.

Embracing Change: Transitioning from Theater to Education

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1264904/open_sms] In this episode of Messages of Positivity, host Norman Morris sits down with his former teacher, Ryan, to delve into Ryan's inspiring journey from aspiring actor to dedicated educator. Ryan, a native of Western North Carolina, shares how his initial passion for acting in high school led him to pursue a career in theater. Despite his father's initial resistance, Ryan followed his heart and switched his major to theater education in college. Through engaging anecdotes, Ryan reveals how his love for theater and performance not only provided him with a sense of fulfillment and confidence but also served as a therapeutic outlet for overcoming personal challenges like bullying and insecurity. As Ryan navigated the transition from actor to educator, he discovered a newfound passion for teaching and connecting with students. His experiences in education classes and practice lessons at rural schools highlighted his natural ability to engage and inspire students, even in challenging environments where others struggled to make an impact. Throughout the episode, Ryan's journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of following one's passion and embracing unexpected opportunities. Listeners are left with a message of resilience, determination, and the importance of finding fulfillment in one's chosen path, no matter the obstacles faced along the way. Tune in to this episode of Messages of Positivity to be inspired by Ryan's story of personal growth, professional evolution, and the profound impact of pursuing one's true calling.

Building Community Through Radio: An Interview with Terryll Evans

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1264904/open_sms] In this episode of Messages of Positivity, I had the pleasure of interviewing Terryll Evans, the co-owner of WPTL Radio Station [https://wptlradio.net/] in Canton, North Carolina. Terryll shared her family's rich history in the radio industry, spanning three generations, starting with her grandfather's radio station in Orlando, Florida, in 1945. Terryll's journey into radio ownership was unexpected, as she initially had no intention of following in her family's footsteps but eventually found her calling in the industry. Throughout the interview, Terryll discussed the challenges of owning a radio station, including the unpredictability of daily operations and the importance of balancing various forms of advertising to reach a wider audience effectively. She emphasized the value of radio as a medium for connecting with listeners and providing a sense of community, especially in rural areas like Canton. Terryll also highlighted the community events and initiatives she organizes through WPTL, such as Mama T's Halloween extravaganza and Mama T's Summer Celebration, aimed at bringing joy and unity to the town following the closure of a local paper mill. These events showcase Terryll's commitment to serving the community and fostering connections among residents. As the conversation continued on the future of radio, Terryll expressed her belief in the medium's enduring relevance, citing its ability to provide companionship and information even in times of crisis. She emphasized the importance of human connection in a digital age and encouraged listeners to prioritize meaningful interactions with others. Listeners were also provided information on how to tune in to WPTL Radio through their website or mobile app, allowing them to access the station's programming anywhere. Terryll's passion for radio and dedication to serving her community shone through in this insightful and inspiring interview, reminding us of the power of communication and connection in spreading positivity and unity.