We sit down with Meghan and Harrison Barley of EMJAY Real Estate Group to hear how they built a husband and wife real estate team and why honest guidance matters in the homebuying process. We also dig into the “I can’t buy a house” mindset, what first-time buyers often misunderstand, and how strong standards and trusted partners keep deals on track.

• Meghan’s path from property management to real estate entrepreneurship
• Harrison’s background in restaurant management and insurance exposure to transactions
• How a husband and wife real estate team splits roles and serves clients
• Why COVID and health needs can reshape career choices
• Common misconceptions that keep first-time homebuyers renting
• The value of frank conversations during one of life’s biggest purchases
• Life outside work, from hiking and camping to design and house flipping
• Building a reliable network of lenders, vendors, and contractors through experience
https://emjayrealestategroup.com

We sit down with Brad Caldwell of Caldwell’s Roofing to talk about what it really takes to build roofs that last, from shingle replacements to complex metal, slate, and flat roof systems. Brad shares why training, material choices, and obsessive attention to detail are the difference between constant leaks and real peace of mind.

• Caldwell’s Roofing services across shingles, standing seam metal, flat roofs, copper, and slate
• Copper accents and custom copper work that elevate a home’s design
• Why Brad stays hands-on to protect safety and quality
• Specialized training and manufacturer education that expand what a local roofer can deliver
• Misconceptions about TPO vs PVC for flat roofing and what prevents seam leaks
• The real cost story behind metal roofs, lifespan, and reflectivity
• Entrepreneurship challenges from early word-of-mouth growth to COVID disruptions
• Practical marketing moves like websites, signs, chambers, and sponsorships
• Why skylights and flat roofs do not leak when installed correctly
https://caldwells-roofing.com/

We sit down with Tipi Miller of United Way of Lee County and get clear on how they help families in crisis through funding, direct support, and resource connections. We also dig into where donations go, what’s happening during campaign season, and easy ways to volunteer locally.

• United Way’s mission as a short-term bridge for families in crisis
• Three ways help happens: funding local organizations, direct services, connecting people to resources
• Audit results and why 85% going to community support matters
• Why giving to United Way strengthens multiple nonprofits at once
• The reality of nonprofit leadership and learning to ask for help
• Coat drive timeline, how donations work, and why buyer’s choice matters
• Campaign season goals and the role of year-end giving
• How to volunteer and ongoing opportunities matched to your passions
https://www.unitedwayofleecounty.com/

We talk with Steffani Bryant from Autosport Body Works about what “no shortcuts” looks like in real-world collision repair and why safety has to come before convenience. We share how to navigate the insurance claim process with more confidence, using your policy and the manufacturer’s repair procedures as your guide.

• Autosport Body Works’ history from 1979 restorations to full collision repair after a hailstorm
• “No shortcuts” as a quality and safety standard using OEM parts and manufacturer repair procedures
• Common misconceptions about insurance claims and the fact that vehicle owners have a choice
• Reading your insurance policy to understand your contract and push back when needed
• Why modern vehicles are complex systems with safety features that work together
• Personal lessons on building confidence through knowledge and serving others
334-745-2166

www.betterfasterrepairs.com

We talk with Kitchen and Bath designer Jere Bowden about how thoughtful planning, strong trade partners, and clear communication turn inspiration into a home that feels cohesive. Jere also shares the personal resilience that shaped her business and why timing matters if you want a remodel you still love after the holidays.

• pivoting from dietetics to kitchen and bath design through a love of how people use kitchens
• learning old-school craftsmanship in a cabinet shop and why quality installation still matters
• designing kitchens and baths as the most complex rooms with plumbing, lighting, HVAC, and tight spaces
• building better outcomes through teamwork with builders, electricians, plumbers, and architects
• correcting internet-driven misconceptions by scaling ideas to ceiling height, layout, and structure
• using a concierge design model that meets clients where they are and stays detail-focused
• planning early around October, holidays, weddings, and babies so decisions are not rushed
• overcoming a house fire while managing client work and leaning on community support
www.jerebowden.com

We sit down with USA Wheelchair Handball Head Coach Ford Dyke to hear how a program built in the Auburn Opelika area grows into a gold medal winning team on the world stage. We break down what wheelchair handball actually looks like, why people underestimate para-sports, and what it takes to get ready for possible Paralympic inclusion.

• the Auburn Opelika roots of USA Wheelchair Handball and the early push for staff, sponsors, and partners
• the gold medal win in France and how medals drive visibility and momentum
• the timeline for Paralympic inclusion and why Brisbane 2032 is closer than it sounds
• common misconceptions about wheelchair sports and why performance chairs change everything
• how recruitment works by pulling top multi sport athletes from other wheelchair sports
• a clear explanation of team handball and wheelchair handball rules, pace, and gameplay
• the 24 Fund and the practical goal of lowering barriers like travel and training access
• obstacles like early silence, plus the payoff of watching athletes develop into medal winners
• upcoming training camps, community support, and the next chance to defend gold in Lyon

info@the24fund.org

We sit down with Sam Sorrell of Shepard Construction to talk about what really drives a great remodel, from planning and problem-solving to clear communication. Sam shares how he built his construction business in Opelika around relationships, quality work, and a reputation he is proud to stand behind.
• Shepard Construction’s focus on home construction, remodeling, and renovations in Opelika
• Sam’s background in custom homes and the leap into starting his own company in 2025
• The mental load of small business ownership and why the freedom still makes it worth it
• Why remodeling is more than physical labor, including planning, coordination, and creativity
• How “lowest price” can miss the real value of good workmanship and communication
• Common homeowner projects, from leaks that spark upgrades to full personalization updates
• What Sam wants clients to know about care, accountability, and being easy to reach with questions
www.builtbyshepard.com

We talk with Rachel Mowery of Firefly Pages about opening a bookstore in Dadeville, Alabama when the nearest shop is miles away in every direction. We share what it takes to jump into entrepreneurship fast, serve readers well, and create a safe, cozy space that feels like home.

• Why Firefly Pages opens in Dadeville and what the shop carries
• The quick-start origin story sparked by a family challenge
• Where the store is located and how locals can stop by
• The biggest misconception about bookstores and why no shop can stock everything
• How special orders work and what fast ordering looks like
• What Rachel does outside the store as a band booster president
• The real obstacles of working for someone else and choosing flexibility for family life
• The vision for a welcoming atmosphere with seating and community comfort
Facebook: @fireflypages

Instagram: @ fire.flypages

220 N Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL