“Filling the Gaps: How Local Experts Are Serving the Overlooked”

“Perspective & Planning: Building a Stronger Financial Future”

Success in business and life often comes down to two things—having the right perspective and having the right plan. In this episode of The Upstate Conversation, host Terry Palma highlights two Upstate professionals helping individuals and businesses move forward with greater clarity and confidence. First, we meet Salena Mulliken, CPA and Growth Consultant with The Sage Perspective, a company focused on helping business owners better understand their numbers, strategy, and opportunities for growth. Then we turn to Helena “Lena” Erman, Wealth Advisor with Jacobi Capital Management, who works with individuals and families to create long-term financial strategies designed to support both present goals and future security. From business growth to wealth planning, this episode explores how thoughtful guidance and trusted relationships can help people make smarter financial decisions with confidence.

“Built on Integrity: The Story Behind High Caliber Solutions”

Sometimes businesses are built from opportunity—and sometimes they’re built from a moment that changes everything. In this episode of The Upstate Conversation, host Terry Palma highlights High Caliber Solutions and the story behind co-founder Wil Herrera and Chief Operations Officer Kya Hazzard. What began as a commitment to help a struggling friend evolved into a company focused on integrity, honest service, and helping customers feel taken care of—not taken advantage of. From HVAC maintenance and customer education to community support and intentional growth, this episode explores how High Caliber Solutions is building its reputation one relationship at a time.

“Safer Sooner: A Different Approach to Personal Safety”

What if self-defense wasn’t really about fighting—but about awareness, confidence, and making it home safely? In this episode of The Upstate Conversation, host Terry Palma highlights Joe Borovicka, owner of Safer Sooner – Self Defense in Greer, South Carolina. Joe’s approach goes far beyond traditional self-defense training. Through one-on-one coaching, public speaking, youth programs, and practical real-world strategies, he teaches people how to recognize danger, avoid conflict, de-escalate situations, and protect themselves when necessary. This episode explores the deeper side of personal safety—one rooted in awareness, preparation, confidence, and understanding human behavior.

“Changing the Money Conversation: Financial Education with Krystale Conley”

Financial independence means different things to different people—but understanding how money truly works can change everything. In this episode of The Upstate Conversation, host Terry Palma sits down with Krystale Conley of Primerica to talk about financial education, protecting families, and helping middle-income households build a stronger future. Krystale shares what inspired her to enter the financial industry, how Primerica’s approach differs from traditional financial institutions, and why education—not just products—is at the center of her mission. From life insurance and financial planning to building authentic relationships in the community, this conversation explores how knowledge and guidance can help people make smarter financial decisions for themselves and their families.

“Dressing Windows, Designing Life: A Creative Journey with O-Drapes”

Creativity has a way of shaping not just what we do—but how we live. In this episode of The Upstate Conversation, host Terry Palma sits down with Olena Petyurenko, owner of O-Drapes in Greenville, South Carolina. From her roots in Ukraine as a fashion designer to building a custom window treatment business in the Upstate, Olena shares her journey of creativity, family, and entrepreneurship. O-Drapes specializes in custom window treatments, bedding, pillows, and more—bringing warmth, personality, and beauty into homes one project at a time. This conversation explores what it means to follow your passion, build something meaningful, and create a life that balances work, family, and creativity.