The Future Starts Early with Don Mueller

Behind Every Great Story

This week, we're turning the camera around. After spending the last year helping tell everyone else's stories, our director and cinematographer, Cameron Calderon, steps in front of the lens for the first time. We talk about teaching himself filmmaking, building 618 Productions from the ground up, the entrepreneurial drive that's fueled his growth, and what it really takes to build a business when you are the business. It's a conversation about betting on yourself, embracing the unknown, and discovering that sometimes the best way to learn is simply by starting.

Simply Johnny

In this episode of Heart of the City, Amy sits down with Johnny Krause—the creative behind Johnny's Home Designs and one of Chattanooga's most beloved online personalities. While many know Johnny for his beautiful gardens, seasonal decorating, baking, and home inspiration, there's much more to his story. By day, he works a full-time corporate job. Outside of work, he's built a community by simply sharing what he loves and encouraging others to find joy in the everyday. Together, Amy and Johnny talk about authenticity in a curated world, creating beauty in ordinary moments, and why making people smile has become his greatest purpose. Whether you're looking for inspiration, a reminder to be yourself, or simply a reason to smile, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

The Future Starts Early with Don Mueller

For more than 75 years, Siskin Children’s Institute has been helping children with special needs and their families navigate some of life's most important moments. In this episode, Amy sits down with President & CEO Don Mueller to discuss the power of early intervention, the evolving landscape of children's healthcare, and what it means to lead a mission-driven organization into its next chapter. Don shares the experiences that shaped his career in pediatric healthcare, the lessons he's learned leading complex organizations, and why access to care can change the trajectory of a child's life. Together, they explore the challenges families face, the importance of evidence-based care, and Don's vision for the future of Siskin and the Chattanooga community. This conversation is a thoughtful look at leadership, purpose, and the profound impact that happens when children and families receive the support they need—early and often.

Everybody Knows Shoey

Everybody knows Shoey. Or at least they think they do. As a DJ, local personality, and self-proclaimed "Mr. Chattanooga," Shoey Russell has spent years at the center of some of the city's biggest events, celebrations, and memories. But beyond the music, the following, and the familiar face around town, who is Shoey really? This week, Amy sits down with Shoey to talk about the story behind the nickname, what music means to him, the power of our community, Chattanooga's evolution, and what he's learned from spending years bringing people together and reading rooms. It's a conversation about connection, culture, and the person behind one of Chattanooga's most recognizable personalities.

More Than Skin Deep

In this episode of Heart of the City, Amy sits down with Emily Brewer, dermatology nurse practitioner and owner of The Derm Center, for a conversation that goes far beyond skincare trends and beauty routines. From skin cancer awareness and the importance of routine skin checks to sunscreen myths, sun exposure, and navigating today's overwhelming world of skincare products, Emily shares practical insights on what really matters when it comes to caring for your skin. Together, Amy and Emily discuss the rise of skincare culture among young girls, how parents can approach skincare at different ages, and the balance between healthy skin and perfect skin in today’s world. As both a provider and business owner, Emily also offers a behind-the-scenes look at leading a healthcare practice and the responsibility that comes with caring for people through every stage of life. Whether you're diligent about SPF or still figuring out where to start, this conversation is filled with practical advice, thoughtful perspective, and a reminder that healthy skin is about much more than what's on the surface.