Get 'N' Your Business Podcast

🎙️ EPISODE 96 – SHOW NOTESIn this episode of the Get In Your Business Podcast, host Alison Shores sits down with Josh Hickman, owner of J Hickman Home Furniture, to share the story behind the transition from Badcock Furniture to a locally owned brand in Kingsland, Georgia.After a sudden corporate shutdown, Josh was faced with a major decision — walk away or rebuild. Within just a few months, he relaunched the business under his own name, keeping the same team, values, and commitment to the community.They discuss the challenges of rebuilding, the importance of employee loyalty, and how J Hickman Home Furniture continues to offer a wide range of products, custom options, and a low-pressure shopping experience for every customer.This episode is a powerful look at resilience, local business, and turning uncertainty into opportunity.📍 J Hickman Home Furniture1975 Commerce Drive, Kingsland, GA🌐 https://jhickmanhf.com🎯 Mention this podcast in-store for 10 percent off your purchase

Get In Your Business Podcast – Episode 95Zombie Customs | Turning Old Into Custom, Show-Quality BuildsIn this episode, host Alison Shores sits down with Joe Gardner and Matthew Manning of Zombie Customs to talk about how a simple idea turned into a growing custom coating and restoration business in Camden County.What started with a small setup and a desire to customize a motorcycle has evolved into a full operation transforming everything from kitchen appliances to automotive parts and vintage restorations. Zombie Customs specializes in powder coating and Cerakote, offering durable, high-quality finishes with endless customization options.If you’ve ever wondered how everyday items can be completely reimagined, this episode breaks down the process, the possibilities, and the mindset behind building something from the ground up.In This Episode How Zombie Customs started from a small DIY setup What powder coating is and how it works The difference between powder coating and Cerakote Why durability and finish quality matter Unique projects, including a restored vintage gas pump Working on everything from mixers to vehicles to firearms The importance of detail and “show-quality” standards Growing a business through word of mouth Getting involved in the local Camden County communityAbout Zombie CustomsZombie Customs is a custom coating and restoration shop specializing in powder coating and Cerakote. Their work focuses on bringing new life to metal items through durable finishes, custom colors, and high-end craftsmanship.From small personal items to large-scale projects, their goal is simple: create results that look as good as they perform.Connect with Zombie Customs📍 3266 Colerain Rd, St. Marys, GA📞 (912) 729-2222📱 Facebook: Zombie Customs📸 Instagram: @zombiecustomsllcCall to ActionHave something you want to restore or customize?Bring it by Zombie Customs or reach out on social media to start your project.Subscribe & SupportIf you enjoyed this episode: Follow the podcast for more local business stories Share this episode with someone who would enjoy it Leave a review to help support local entrepreneurs

🎙️ Episode 94: A New Approach to Healing with Equine Therapy in Camden CountyIn this episode of the Get In Your Business Podcast, host Alison Shores sits down with Molly McHugh of Camden Behavioral Wellness to discuss an innovative mental health approach now being introduced to Camden County — Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy.This experiential form of therapy combines traditional mental health practices with the presence of horses, creating a unique environment that helps individuals process trauma, regulate emotions, and reconnect with themselves in a powerful way.Molly explains how trauma is stored in both the brain and the body, and how EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) works to help individuals reprocess those experiences. She also shares how combining EMDR with equine therapy enhances grounding, emotional awareness, and healing outcomes.The conversation highlights the growing need for alternative therapy options in the community and how this program could make a meaningful impact — especially for veterans, trauma survivors, and foster children.🔑 Key Topics Covered:What Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy is and how it worksThe difference between traditional talk therapy and experiential therapyHow trauma is stored in the brain and bodyUnderstanding EMDR and its role in trauma recoveryWhy horses are effective partners in the therapeutic processWho can benefit from equine therapy (veterans, foster youth, trauma patients)What a typical session looks like (no horseback riding required)How this program is being introduced in Camden CountyOpportunities for community support and donations https://camdenchamber.com/donate-equine📍 Resources & Contact:📞 Camden Behavioral Wellness: (912) 825-8488🌐 Camden County Chamber: https://camdenchamber.com🌐 Learn more about Eagala: https://www.eagala.org🎯 About the Podcast:The Get In Your Business Podcast, hosted by Alison Shores and produced in partnership with the Camden County Chamber of Commerce, highlights local businesses, leaders, and initiatives making an impact in the community.📢 Call To Action:If you found value in this episode, be sure to:Subscribe to the podcastLeave a reviewShare this episode with someone who could benefitAnd if this conversation resonated with you:💬 Would you try equine-assisted therapy? Why or why not?#GetInYourBusiness #CamdenCountyGA #MentalHealth #EquineTherapy #EMDR

What does it really take to buy a home in Camden County, Georgia?In Episode 93 of the Get In Your Business Podcast, host Allison Shores sits down with Michelle Gemmell and Tony Gemmell of Guaranteed Rate Affinity to break down the realities of today’s housing market and what buyers need to know before getting started.Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, military family, or someone who feels like homeownership is out of reach, this episode delivers clear, practical insight into the mortgage process and the options available to you.Michelle and Tony share their journey from South Africa to building a mortgage business in the United States, while also highlighting their work across Camden County and beyond. They explain how many buyers are closer to owning a home than they think — and why waiting for the “perfect time” may actually work against you.The conversation also dives into VA loans, one of the most powerful tools available to eligible buyers, especially in a military-driven community like Camden County.If you’ve been unsure where to start, this episode is designed to give you clarity and direction.🔑 What You’ll LearnWhy you don’t need 20% down to buy a homeHow VA loans work and why they are a strong option for military familiesThe difference between renting and building equity through ownershipWhy waiting for interest rates to drop could cost you moreThe “buy now, refinance later” strategy explainedHow to start the homebuying process, even if you’re not ready yetWhat lenders actually look for when helping buyers qualify📍 About the GuestsMichelle Gemmell and Tony Gemmell are mortgage professionals with Guaranteed Rate Affinity, serving clients across Camden County, Georgia and beyond.They specialize in helping first-time homebuyers, VA loan clients, and individuals with unique financial situations find the right path to homeownership.📞 Get in TouchGuaranteed Rate AffinityMichelle GemmellAssociate VP of Mortgage LendingNMLS ID: 1957379📞 (954) 331-8819📧 [email protected] GemmellOriginating ManagerNMLS: 1174856📞 (786) 654-6769📞 (786) 384-9929📧 [email protected]🎧 Listen, Share, SubscribeIf you found this episode helpful, be sure to follow the podcast and share it with someone who’s thinking about buying a home in Camden County.

Porch & Patio | Outdoor Furniture That Lasts in Coastal GeorgiaGet ’N Your Business Podcast – Episode 92In Episode 92 of the Get ’N Your Business Podcast, host Alison Shores welcomes Sissy Blanchard & Becky Derrick from Porch and Patio, a locally owned outdoor furniture store serving Camden County for more than 20 years.Located in Three Palms Plaza in Kingsland, Porch and Patio specializes in high-quality outdoor furniture designed to withstand the coastal Georgia climate. From patio sets and fire tables to umbrellas, outdoor rugs, and even in-pool furniture, their showroom offers a wide range of options for homeowners looking to upgrade their outdoor spaces.In this episode, Sissy & Becky shares insights on choosing furniture that lasts in coastal environments, the materials that perform best in heat and humidity, and why working with knowledgeable local experts can make a big difference when designing a backyard space.They also talk about the fun challenges of helping couples choose furniture together—sometimes joking that their job can feel a little like marriage counseling.Whether you're building a new home, designing a backyard retreat, or simply looking for outdoor furniture that will last more than a season, this episode offers practical advice and a behind-the-scenes look at a beloved Camden County business.In This Episode• Why coastal climates require different outdoor furniture• The four main outdoor furniture materials explained• Fire tables, umbrellas, rugs, and outdoor accessories• In-pool furniture and sun shelf seating• How Porch and Patio helps customers design outdoor spaces• The importance of supporting local businessesVisit Porch and Patio📍 Kingsland Showroom1621 GA-40 Suite DKingsland, GA 31548Also located in Redfern Village on St. Simons Island.About the PodcastThe Get ’N Your Business Podcast highlights the entrepreneurs, organizations, and local leaders shaping the future of Camden County, Georgia.Hosted by Alison Shores of the Camden County Chamber of Commerce.

Podcast Show NotesGet ’N Your Business Podcast — Episode 91Guest: Candace Pullum, St. Marys Main Street DirectorHost: Allison Shores, Camden County Chamber of CommerceIn this episode of the Get ’N Your Business Podcast, host Allison Shores sits down with Candace Pullum, the St. Marys Main Street Director, to talk about everything happening in downtown St. Marys—from supporting local businesses to organizing community events that bring residents and visitors together.Candace shares how the Main Street program works behind the scenes to strengthen downtown, assist business owners, and help connect entrepreneurs with the right resources. She also explains the city’s new online business license portal, which simplifies the process for business owners applying for or renewing their occupational tax licenses.The conversation highlights how collaboration between merchants, volunteers, city boards, and community leaders continues to transform St. Marys into a thriving waterfront destination. From markets and festivals to family-friendly events, the downtown district continues to grow while maintaining its unique coastal charm.Listeners also get a preview of several exciting spring events happening in St. Marys, including the monthly Alive After Five, the Glow-in-the-Dark Easter Egg Hunt, a Culture Driven car show, and the kickoff of the Music in the Park concert series. The episode wraps up with a reminder to grab tickets for Taste of Camden, returning to Orange Hall this April.Key Topics CoveredThe role of the St. Marys Main Street ProgramHow the city is making it easier to start and run a businessThe new online portal for business licenses and renewalsSupporting and connecting local entrepreneursThe growth and energy of downtown St. MarysHow merchants and volunteers help power community eventsEvents MentionedCommunity Yard Sale & Sidewalk Sales – March 7Alive After Five – Monthly Downtown EventGlow-in-the-Dark Easter Egg Hunt – March 21Culture Driven Waterfront Car Show – AprilMusic in the Park – Begins April 11Taste of Camden – April 19 at Orange HallResources & LinksCamden County Chamber of Commercehttps://camdenchamber.comSt. Marys Main Street (Candace Pullum)[email protected] to ActionSubscribe to the Get ’N Your Business Podcast to hear more conversations with local entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators across Camden County.If you enjoyed this episode, leave a 5-star review and share it with someone who loves supporting local businesses.Don’t forget to grab your tickets for Taste of Camden — April 19.#GetNYourBusiness #CamdenChamber #StMarysGA #DowntownStMarys #CamdenCountyGA #SupportLocal #TasteOfCamden

Summer Starts Here: Big Plans for the St. Marys Aquatic CenterGet ‘N’ Your Business Podcast – Episode 90Summer in Camden County is about to make a splash. ☀️💦In Episode 90, host Alison Shores sits down with Isabella Young, Aquatic Center Supervisor, to talk about exciting updates, new programming, and a bold vision for the future of the St. Marys Aquatic Center.From adult nights and family movie nights to water aerobics and the return of Pups in the Pool — this season is shaping up to be one of the best yet.In This Episode:Isabella’s journey from lifeguard to Aquatic Center SupervisorWhat’s already at the St. Marys Aquatic CenterRenovations & lazy river reconstructionAdult Nights (18+ themed evenings)Family Movie NightsWater Aerobics (seniors & all ages)Swim lessons for 6 months through adultsBirthday parties & private facility rentalsSeason passes, daily admission & pricing optionsThe 5-year vision (splash pads, accessibility & long-term growth)2026 Season Dates:Opens May 9 (weekends only)Full-time hours begin May 25 (11AM–6PM)Season runs through September 7Switches back to weekends-only starting August 2📍 Located behind the St. Marys Public Library🚗 Free parkingFor updates, follow the St. Marys Aquatic Center on Facebook.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who loves summer in Camden County.🎙️ Presented by the Camden County Chamber of Commerce#GetNYourBusiness #StMarysGA #CamdenCountyGA #SummerFun

🎙 Episode 89: Keeping Kids Reading in Camden CountyHost: Alison ShoresGuest: Mitch Blyler, Rotary Club of Camden CountyIn this powerful episode of the Get In Your Business Podcast, Alison Shores sits down with Mitch Blyler to discuss the Rotary Club of Camden County’s We Read program — a local initiative that provides children ages birth to five with a free book every month through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.The conversation highlights why early literacy is critical to long-term academic success. Children learn to read through third grade — and after that, they read to learn. If they fall behind early, it can impact their entire educational journey.Mitch shares his personal connection to the program, explaining how his own daughter participated years before he even realized Rotary funded it locally. What started as a free book in the mail became a family tradition of reading together — and a passion for supporting literacy in Camden County.But there’s a challenge.The We Read program is:100% locally fundedNot supported by Georgia state dollarsApproximately $32 per child per yearServing nearly 300 childrenFacing a growing waitlist of over 100 childrenThe Rotary Club is at a crossroads — and continued funding will determine whether the program can reopen enrollment and expand access.The episode also explores:What Rotary really does in Camden CountyHands-on service projects and local impactSponsorship opportunities for businessesHow younger professionals can get involvedWhy supporting businesses that give back mattersThis episode is a reminder that meaningful community change doesn’t require massive funding — sometimes it just takes $32 and a willingness to act.Key Takeaways✔ Early literacy sets the foundation for lifelong success✔ The We Read program costs about $32 per child annually✔ Local support is essential to keeping the program alive✔ Rotary offers flexible ways to serve — including new satellite club options✔ Businesses can sponsor multiple community events through RotaryHow to Support📚 Sponsor a child🤝 Become a business sponsor💛 Donate to help reopen the waitlistVisit: camdencountyrotary.orgAbout the GuestMitch Blyler serves with the Rotary Club of Camden County and has been a long-time advocate for community service and literacy. Through hands-on projects and fundraising efforts, he works to strengthen Camden County for future generations.Connect & Subscribe

Episode 88: For Camden — A Conversation with Pastor Jon McClarnonWhat does it mean to be “for Camden”?In this episode, Alison sits down with Pastor Jon McClarnon, Lead Pastor of Christ Church Camden, to talk about mission, community, and why church shouldn’t feel intimidating.Christ Church Camden exists to lead disconnected and unfulfilled people toward a full life in Jesus — and they believe that life can start right now, not someday.Pastor Jon shares his journey from Missouri to Camden County, the growth of the church since 2018, and why unity among churches matters. They discuss the addition of a Thursday night service, the launch of an affordable preschool, and the impact of programs like Hope 1312 Closet and Care Portal in supporting foster families and meeting real needs in real time.The conversation also explores Rooted, message-based small groups, and why you don’t need to have your life together to walk through the doors of a church.If you’ve ever felt disconnected, unsure, or hesitant about church — this episode is for you.In This Episode:The mission behind Christ Church CamdenWhy being “For Camden” mattersBuilding unity among local churchesHope 1312 Closet and foster care supportRooted and small group connectionWhy you don’t need to have it all figured out📍 Get ConnectedIf you’re looking for community, purpose, or simply a place to start — Christ Church Camden invites you to come as you are.🌐 Website:https://www.christchurchcamden.com 📞 Church Office: ((912) 405-8181) 📍 Location: 250 Lake Pointe Dr, Kingsland, GA 31548 ⏰ Sunday Services: 8:30 AM | 10:00 AM | 11:30 AM ➕ Coming Soon: Thursday Night ServiceWhether you’ve been in church your whole life or haven’t stepped into one in years, you’re welcome here.👉 Visit the website to learn more, sign up for Rooted, explore small groups, or find the right next step for you and your family.Listen, subscribe, and share with someone who may be looking for connection in Camden County.