Interactions + Attractions UPLIFT NC

Join us as we get to talk with Kullen and Philip Bell, from the Coharie Tribe in Sampson County! Kullen has stepped into a leadership role within the Great Coharie River Initiative and been at the helm of the Coharie’s eco-tourism activities (Coharie River Tours), coordinating and leading kayaking tours for hundreds of individuals throughout the state. Philip is the co-creator of The Great Coharie River Initiative and oversees environmental operations in the local rivers, aquatic environs of the tribal community, and supports tribal cultural arts programs. Coharie River Tours provide residents and visitors of Sampson County a resource for guided kayak trips, history of Coharie Tribe, the exploration of nature, relaxation, adventure, self-discovery, and a greater overall connection with the outdoors. To learn more about the Coharie Tribe and book a kayak trip visit: https://coharietribe.org/ and be sure to stay updated on what UPLIFT is doing here: https://www.uplifttourism.com/.

Join us as we explore the inspiring story of STARworks, an organization dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation in rural North Carolina through ceramics, glass, and metal arts.
Our guests are Dr. David Jones and Nancy Gottovi. Nancy, the Executive Director of STARworks, holds a PhD in Cultural Anthropology and has been recognized for her leadership in sustainable business and creative place-making. David, a seasoned veterinarian and zoologist, has led the North Carolina Zoological Park and the Zoological Society of London, has worked globally in wildlife conservation and rural development, and is on the advisory board at STARworks.
Discover how STARworks has revitalized its community and learn from David and Nancy's insights on innovative rural development and the power of arts in creating vibrant communities.
To learn more about STARworks visit: https://www.starworksnc.org/ and be sure to stay updated on what UPLIFT is doing: https://www.uplifttourism.com/.

Join us as we talk with Thomas Salley! Thomas is the tourism director for Wilkesboro, North Carolina. Prior to his career in tourism with the Town of Wilkesboro, Mr. Salley worked for 12 years at Raffaldini Vineyards, managing the tasting room and marketing. Mr. Salley has had the privilege of serving more than twenty years in the customer service industry, from the bathroom to the board room, in theaters, concert and event venues, wine, and tourism. Mr. Salley also serves as the marketing chair of the NC Wine and Grape Council, and on the High Country Host Executive Board, Yadkin Valley Heritage Corridor Board, and Wilkes Healthy Action Team, Wilkes County Library Endowment Board, Wilkes Youth Life Development board, Wilkes Chamber of commerce board, among others. Check out what’s going on in Wilkesboro here https://www.wilkescountytourism.com/, and be sure to stay updated on what UPLIFT is doing here: https://www.uplifttourism.com/.

Join us as we chat with Sheila Barefoot! Sheila’s expertise lies in team management and customer relations with over 30 years of experience in office management, business development, marketing strategy, and revenue growth. As the Executive Director of the Sampson County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Sheila leverages her diverse background to promote Sampson County as a destination for meetings, events, and tourism related endeavors. In her role she also handles media inquiries and collaborates with local businesses to develop programs to support their business and grow the travel industry in Sampson County. To learn more about Sampson County (AKA The Barn Quilt Capital of North Carolina®) visit https://www.visitsampsonnc.com/ and be sure to stay updated on what UPLIFT is doing here: https://www.uplifttourism.com/.

Join us as we talk to Jennifer Everett! Jennifer is a professional runway and published print model, author of the self love book “I Choose Me: The Ultimate Act of Self Love”, minister and founder of Culture Queens amongst many other things. Culture Queens is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring women of color have access and enjoy all things arts, culture and outdoor activities. Jennifer works to create opportunities for members to showcase their talents, experience the therapeutic qualities of the outdoors and build a strong community celebrating their authenticity and culture. Today Jennifer had a very special announcement on her partnership with Tough Cutie at REI where a percentage from each purchase supports the Culture Queens mission. This partnership lasts until the end up May, so check it out here: https://www.groflo.io/tc-cqo/tc-15-cqo?dm_i=7K22,AXTC,4ZGTR9,1LDS3,1 and be sure to follow Culture Queens on social media @culturequeens_clt and @culturequeensoutdoors!

Join us this week as we talk with Susan Dosier! Susan is the President of DK Communications Group, a marketing and content company with a focus on food, film agriculture and tourism. With a background as a journalist and publishing executive for 18 years, she seamlessly transitioned into marketing, bringing a unique perspective to her work. Since 2011, when Susan and her partner, Desmond, created DK Communications Group, they have been using words and pictures, marketing, PR and digital strategies to help their publication and marketing clients reach their business goals. To learn more about DK Communications Group visit: https://www.dkcommunicationsgroup.com/ and be sure to stay updated on what UPLIFT is doing: https://www.uplifttourism.com/.