Conversation Mill

On this week’s episode of The Conversation Mill, Lieutenant Mike Austin of the Greenville, SC City Police shares powerful insights on community policing—emphasizing the importance of listening to citizens to build trust and connection.We dive into:✅ The role of community partnerships in effective policing.✅ The emotional challenges faced by officers.✅ The unique bond and responsibilities of K9 handling and an emotion story of how these dogs save lives.This conversation highlights the heart behind the badge. Join us in conversation and learn more at Conversationmill.com

In this episode, we have one of the most valuable conversations you’ll hear as a small business owner. Joining us is Courtney Epps, the founder of OTBTAX, a renowned tax strategist, international speaker, and author of More Relaxing Less Taxing and What’s Your Plan B?.It’s no secret that every small business owner shares the common goal of keeping more money in their pockets and reinvesting it into their business. Yet, despite this universal aim, many small business owners lack even the foundational step of categorizing their expenses, let alone having a robust tax strategy to prevent overpaying taxes.Courtney shares her expert insights and actionable tips that can empower business owners to start taking control of their finances and stop leaving money on the table. Her experience in working with businesses of all sizes has given her a unique perspective on how to legally and ethically free up money through effective tax strategies.Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your business journey, this conversation is your sign to find a tax strategist and take back control of your financial future.Follow the show on Instagram Visit conversationmill.com

Today we honor and thank our veterans I think one of the many ways we can say thank you is by preserving history, learning our history and learning from our history so… Today’s episode is a history lesson. We are in desperate need of learning more of our history and the history that leads us to where we are now. Yet, we often fail to truly understand our history or appreciate the broader scope of world history. With so many agenda-driven retellings, misunderstandings, or outright disregard for history, I aim to bring more historical context to the podcast when it makes sense. With this episode releasing on Veterans Day, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to begin incorporating more history into the show.To learn more about the history of Veterans Day, including the year all federal holidays were moved to Mondays, check out the links below. How WWI Changed America: America Goes to War   https://wisconsinfirstnations.org/ho-chunk-nation/African American Women and WWI | National WWI Museum and Memorialhttps://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/world-war-iConversationmill.com

In this episode of Conversation Mill, host Rebecca Dehl sits down with Brian Beitler, the visionary founder of Sune, a new mobile app that’s redefining the way we shop for handcrafted goods. From the people behind QVC and HSN comes Sune—a virtual craft fair where you can discover, shop, and sell unique products made by talented makers across the United States. Tune in as Brian shares the story behind Sune, the inspiration for creating a digital craft fair, and how the platform brings makers and buyers together through immersive video experiences.Links and Resources:Visit Sune's Website: sune.comBecome a Seller on Sune: Sign Up HereFollow Sune on Social Media: Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @shopsuneJoin us for an inspiring conversation on how Sune is making handcrafted shopping more accessible and connecting buyers with the stories behind the products they love.

In this episode of the Conversation Mill, we sit down with Mitch Vazquez, founder of Heroes' Harvests, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing therapeutic outdoor experiences to our nation's service members. Mitch, a veteran himself, shares the story behind Heroes' Harvests and its mission to support active duty military members, reservists, National Guard members, veterans, and Gold Star families through exclusive hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities.With nearly 20 million veterans and around 2 million active duty, reserve, and National Guard Soldiers in the United States, Heroes' Harvests was founded on the belief that time spent in nature can be a powerful form of healing. Mitch discusses how the nonprofit's dynamic events create therapeutic environments designed to help service members cope with the physical and emotional stress they have endured, whether from combat-related injuries, PTSD, or the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.Tune in to learn more about the incredible work Heroes' Harvests is doing to improve the lives of those who have served our country. Mitch’s passion for the outdoors and dedication to giving back is inspiring, and his insights offer a glimpse into how nature can play a vital role in the healing process.Learn how you can get involved- Here. conversationmill.comFollow us on Instagram

Welcome to another episode of Conversation Mill, where we discuss the heartbeat of communities—small businesses, local leaders, and the organizations working to make a difference. Today, we’re excited to welcome our special guest, the Mom and Pop Alliance of South Carolina, an organization dedicated to championing the needs of family-owned and small businesses across the state.About the Mom and Pop Alliance:Small businesses are the backbone of South Carolina's economy, yet their voices often go unheard in the development of government policies. The Mom and Pop Alliance was founded to change that. As a business owner herself, Diane Hardy, the founder understands the challenges faced by small businesses—especially when it comes to the ever-increasing influence of state government on business operations.This organization was created and is run by volunteers who are committed to serving as a bridge between family-owned businesses and state government. They work diligently to advocate for solutions and policies that support the "mom and pop" businesses that form the economic foundation of South Carolina. Diane, knows these challenges firsthand as the owner of a franchise bakery in Greenville, SC. Her experience fuels the alliance’s mission to ensure that small businesses have a strong voice in shaping policies that affect their success.Upcoming Event – Annual Dinner:The Mom and Pop Alliance Annual Dinner is just around the corner, and you won’t want to miss it! Ticket sales are now live for this year’s event, taking place on October 28th in Greenville.Last year's dinner was a sold-out success, so be sure to purchase your tickets early. This year's event will be emceed by radio personality Joey Hudson, promising an evening full of inspiration, networking, and celebration. Attendees will enjoy a chef-prepared meal, wine, and dessert in the stunning open-air dining room at Hotel Hartness.Why You Should Attend:Connect with fellow small business owners, advocates, and leaders.Gain insights into current policies impacting small businesses in South Carolina.Support the efforts of the Mom and Pop Alliance to create a business-friendly climate in the state.Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Conversation Mill, where we explore the stories that shape our communities. Remember, when small businesses thrive, so do the places we call home.

Andrew Reina, Founder of The Ragnar Group, joins me in conversation in this episode about insurance (personal & business), liquor liability, and solutions to help small businesses in South Carolina, but potential across the US. The Ragnar Group Inc. was formed with a singular goal in mind, to disrupt the insurance and financial services industries. For far to long this industry in our opinion has been built not with the client in mind but with what benefits the company’s, agents and advisors most. The result has been a frustrating relationship between financial professionals and the general public in which they strive to help.To learn more about the show, or to explore sponsorship or networking options visit: conversationmill.com Need business solutions? Financing? Lower CC rates? Coaching or Planning Services? Silverside Consulting + Creative founded and operated by your host Rebecca Dehl provides local and national services for businesses from start-up stage to large-scale companies preparing for a sale. Don't wait reach out today.

Laurel Harrop, founder of Busty Lush, joins the conversation to share what inspired her to start this line of non-alcoholic malt beverages that celebrate women. This female forward brand, delivers great taste with style. But entering the beverage space is not for the faint of heart. You have to be willing to take risks and create a great brand story to get the attention of buyers. Join Laurel and I in conversation as we discuss Laurels history as an entrepreneur, her advice to young entrepreneurs and more. conversationmill.comsilversidecreative.com

Replay, Original Episode Aired 9/23/2023.Mountain Care first opened its doors in 1986 as "Mountain Geri-Care". Over the years the name, location, and capacity have changed, but their goal has remained the same: to provide high-quality, community-based care for older adults and their caregivers.  Mountain Care is a nonprofit, located in Buncombe and Henderson county in North Carolina. But the topic of caring for aging adults is one that will continue to impact us all, and as Elizabeth explains in this episode there is not enough support to meet demand. Consider supporting Mountain Care with a donation or by volunteering: Learn More HereConversationmill.comsilversidecreative.com

Christopher Smith, Executive Director of the South Carolina Bar and Tavern Association joined me remotely to fill us in on the latest happening with liquor liability laws in South Carolina. More venues and bars continue to close or struggle to afford liability insurance and the SC Justice Acts continues to be stalled. With special sessions coming up and the June 11th South Carolina primaries around the corner I decided to release this episode a day early so more people could hear it and get out to the primaries to let our lawmakers know where we stand with our vote. This might seem like just a South Carolina issue, but could very well happen in any state and in any industry. Small business owners across the country already sacrifice, scrap and give blood, sweat and tears to make their dreams come true, provide for their families, and employee members of the community, that they should not be put out of business by personal injury attorneys, legislators and insurance companies. It is time to bring some personal responsibility back to our communities and country. Please share with your friends and family here in South Carolina and beyond! South Carolina Bar and Tavern AssociationConversation MillSilverside Consulting + Creative

Community Remembrance preserves truthful historic narratives, but also is working to emphasize the resilience of the Black community. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Pamela Adams and Charnise Mangle to learn more about the Community Remembrance Project and what led them to their contributions to this Project. We also discuss the impact of trauma across generations, and how the history of civil rights is or is not being taught here in the Upstate of South Carolina or across the country. To learn more about Community Remembrance Project please visit: https://www.remembranceprojectgvlsc.org/andhttps://eji.org/

James (Jim) J. Hennigan, Esq joins the show in conversation today, to discuss GOAL Justice of Greenville, human rights, and more.  Jim currently runs his own LLC providing in-house counsel services on a wide range of subjects. His career has primarily been in corporate law, after receiving his B.A. from the University of Notre Dame, and his law degree from Emory University. School of Law. Jim and I ask and try to answer some of the toughest questions facing our communities: What is Justice? What is affordable housing and who deserves this? What are basic human rights? Jim has been involved with GOAL here in Greenville since the beginning and felt a call to justice actions after a conversation with his son. Learn more about your host, Rebecca Dehl and the show at Conversation Mill. Ready to grow your small business and need action planning, coaching or operational organization? Silverside Consulting has 20 years of business building experience.

This week I am in Conversation with the founders of an Award-Winning local craft brewery where Greenville, South Carolina locals, families, dogs, and craft beer lovers traverse to. Tetrad Brewing Company is a true-to-style, small-batch craft brewery that started with a Mr. Beer kit, family and a pure love for high-quality craft beer. Stop into the taproom to experience the city's best local craft beer. Tetrad Brewing Co. owners Chad & John celebrate all things family and community. Listen in to hear how they Brew 4 Love. Learn more about your host Rebecca Dehl or visit www.conversationmill.com to read the latest about the show. Interested in advertising with Conversation Mill? Email chat@conversationmill.com

Heath Dillard, President & CEO of VisitGreenvilleSC joins us in conversation.  This episode is not a sales pitch to come visit Greenville, SC (though we'd love you to check it out), but an informational conversation about tourism. Heath shares his career journey to VisitGreenvilleSC, and how a career in tourism during Covid prepared him to answer community concerns about the impact of tourism. We talk the tourism impact on our cities and states, how this can be misrepresented or misunderstood. Heath is also a member of the board of directors for Travel and Tourism Research Association. He has a heart not only for the place that is Greenville but the community that is Greenville. Join us in conversation to learn more about an industry that often faces opposition. To learn more about the show visit:www.conversationmill.com

Jonathan Willis, Founder of Farm Fresh Fast, a meal prep and farm-to-table fast food joint in South Carolina joins me in conversation. Jonathan and I think it is time to get a little fired up (passionate) about where your food comes from. In this conversation, we learn about Farm Fresh Fast and some of their newest initiatives calling attention to how things are done behind the scenes, but we also get into the corporate greed of it all. But if you take only one thing away from this episode it should be... You Vote With Your Dollars; listen in and hear what I mean. www.conversationmill.comwww.silversidecreative.com

On this episode of Conversation Mill, I welcome two friends of mine, Jordan Wong and Josh Wilson. Jordan, a personal trainer, and professional powerlifter, took the leap to open his own gym when the facility he was working at shut it doors in the post-pandemic gym landscape. During the Covid lockdowns, Jordan opened his garage to friends and training clients as a temporary gym. From this one action, he created a culture that those of us who took advantage of his garage wanted to return to post-lockdowns. Resulting in Jordan opening Showcase Strength & Fitness, in Port Charlotte, Florida.Josh, a personal trainer and powerlifter, followed not too far behind Jordan, opening his own private training studio, The Vault Strength & Fitness, in Sarasota, Florida. Bringing in other coaches looking for an elevated fitness environment to train their clients. Before becoming friends Jordan, Josh and I worked at the same 6-gym chain in Southwest Florida; until they were sold and I moved on.  We experienced changes in leadership (including my promotion and departure), booms in membership and droughts, the sale of the gyms, and ultimately Jordan and Josh experienced their locations closing. They took those experiences, their extensive knowledge of personal fitness, their skills, and their determination to work independently to create successful training facilities. Join us as we find out what their driving force is, and what makes their locations different than the big box gym down the street.www.conversationmill.com www.silversidecreative.com

In 2023, Real Estate Agent Stephanie Burger, had 61 transactions for a value of 25+ million. She is rated 5 stars and ranks in the .5% of over 3500 Greenville MLS agents. So it is not just my opinion that she is one of the best. Her ability to negotiate, be one step ahead, and bring her local expertise to the table gets her clients the home they are looking for or the sale they want. She joins me in conversation to discuss what home buyers are looking for here in the Greenville, SC market, but also what it takes to be successful in real estate, how important community is and more. www.conversationmill.comNeed to make changes in your business? Ready to get organized and prepared to take your business to the next level? Visit Rebecca's business coaching and consulting, Silverside Consulting + Creative.

Table Rock Tea Company, Ltd. is artisan tea grown in the United States, gorwning in the shadow of the Table Rock State Park, in Pickens, South Carolina. Founders, Steve and Jennifer Lorch, are also the founders of Hydromissions International, so their roots for charitable giving run deep here at the tea company.  10% of ALL sales goes to charity through their ConnectiviTea™ Fund.  Steve joins me in conversation and we talk much more than tea. Steve is an inventor, former surgical nurse, author and serial entrepreneur. His latest book All In (again): Unsolicited Advice From A Serial Entrepreneur is full of bit sized examples and stories to learn from small business success and failures. www.conversationmill.comNeed help getting your business organized? Have a growing business but haven't put processes in place? Silverside Consulting + Creative provides action planning services, coaching, templates, and more to get you and your business set up for long-term success.

Surgeon, Scott Porter, joins me on this first episode of season 4 to share how he founded Just Cause Apparel to replenish his surgery tank.  Now he is not only refilling his cup of hope but spreading that hope by giving back with the profits of Just Cause. Scott is the Vice Chair of Operations in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Prisma Health in Greenville, SC, and the Co-Founder of Just Cause Apparel. He attended the Yale School of Medicine and in the course of his career, has run a non-profit, Sarcoma Warriors. If you need some motivation to follow that dream you have always had or need some motivation to start that side business to replace your day job, this is your episode. Scott could make all the excuses regarding demands on his time, but he leveraged hiring a team that believes in his vision and his network to create a company whose mission is to give back. Want to start purchasing your company's/team's apparel from Just Cause? Click HERE to learn more. To support the show's mission of elevating our local economies and building up small businesses by advertising or sponsoring the show, visit conversationmill.com. Need help action planning, strategizing, organizing, building SOP's, or implementing within your small business visit silversidecreative.com for your small business resources.

Replay: I am lucky enough to call this guest a friend, so it was time to replay our conversation from Season 1! And if you live in the Greenville, SC area and are still looking for a perfect gift, True North has massage Gift Certificates available, trust me your loved ones will thank you! Johanna Davis strives to create a client-focused practice with her massage and yoga. Her True North Wellness brand is about delivering these individual experiences; where the individual can find healing for themselves. Johanna reminds us over and over again to keep it simple. A reminder that is much needed in our over-stimulated world. We talk about how even while she is creating this individualized experience, she is also creating community in where and how she offers her yoga classes. To see where Johanna is teaching follow her on Instagram.Want to book a custom massage or private yoga session? Visit: https://www.truenorthgreenville.com/The reading Johanna shares at the end of the episode is written by Daniell Koepke. Get full access to Conversation Mill at conversationmill.substack.com/subscribe