ConnectTheKnox Julia Hurley

In this exciting episode of Connect the Knox, host Julia Hurley speaks with Justin Cazana, one of Knoxville's leading commercial real estate brokers and developers. With over 20 years of experience, Justin shares stories about his experiences in real estate, his family’s history in the business, and some projects he's proud of, like improving old buildings and developing new ones. Justin also discusses how Knoxville's commercial spaces have evolved and what he sees for the city’s future. The episode highlights how important local knowledge and connections are in the real estate industry.
Show Highlights: (00:00) - Introduction to the episode and guest, Justin Cazana
(00:43) - Justin describes his role and history in Knoxville's commercial real estate
(04:30) - Justin’s reflection on his early experiences and the evolution of his career
(07:00) - Discussing favorite projects and their impact on Knoxville
(09:59) - Key transformations in downtown Knoxville and future projections
(14:09) - Insights into Justin’s family legacy in Knoxville’s real estate
(17:13) - The process and vision behind turning The Tennessean into a luxury hotel
(23:09) - Upcoming projects and the current state of office spaces in Knoxville
(28:21) - Personal recommendations for first-time Knoxville visitors
(30:24) - How to find Justin and closing remarks
Links Referenced:
Justins LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincazana/
Justin’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/jcazana?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Avison Young: https://www.avisonyoung.com/professionals/-/ayp/view/justin-cazana/in/knoxville
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In this episode of Connect the Knox, Julia Hurley engages with grants expert Lisa Shiveler. From her journey to Knoxville to her pivotal role in transforming local educational and community initiatives through grant writing, Lisa offers an insider's perspective on navigating the competitive world of grants. Learn about the opportunities that grants unveil for nonprofit organizations and community projects within the Knoxville area, extending from Crossville to Cocke County. Lisa's insights provide a roadmap for harnessing the power of grants to foster growth and development across East Tennessee.
Show Highlights:  (00:00) - Introduction to the Episode
(00:27) - Lisa Shiver Introduces Grants and Their Impact on Knoxville
(01:21) - Lisa's Move to Knoxville and Why She Loves It
(02:51) - An In-depth Look at Grant Writing and Its Challenges
(10:12) - Explaining the Difference Between a Grant and a Foundation
(13:44) - Tips on Grant Research and Utilizing Resources
(16:24) - How Walter State Community College Benefits from Grants
(23:53) - Encouraging Community Engagement and Utilizing Local Resources
(27:22) - Lisa’s Favorite Knoxville and Morristown Spots
(31:05) - Closing Remarks and Encouragement for Grant Seekers
Links Referenced:
Visit Knoxville Website: https://www.visitknoxville.com/
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Julia is joined by Kim Bumpas, the president of Visit Knoxville, to discuss the transformation of Knoxville into a must-visit destination. They explore Kim’s journey in the tourism industry, the revitalization of iconic landmarks like the Sunsphere, and the initiatives that have put Knoxville on the map. Their conversation also touches on future projects, the impact of tourism on the local economy, and how to attract and retain young talent in the city. Tune in for the vision and passion driving Knoxville's growth as a vibrant, welcoming community!
 
(00:00) - Introduction to the Episode
(01:14) - Kim Bumpas shares her journey and introduction to tourism
(05:58) - Sunsphere's revitalization and its importance to Knoxville
(09:55) - How Visit Knoxville put the city on the map as a premier destination
(14:00) - Starter pack recommendations for families visiting Knoxville
(18:25) - Changes in Knoxville's tourism over the last 20 years
(23:22) - Upcoming events and initiatives from Visit Knoxville
(26:15) - Strategies to retain young talent in Knoxville and the role of Visit Knoxville
(29:40) - Where to find internships, volunteer opportunities, and Visit Knoxville resources
(30:23) - The best place to start planning your Knoxville vacation
(31:10) - Closing remarks
 
Links Referenced:
Visit Knoxville Website: https://www.visitknoxville.com/ Connect with ConnectTheKnox
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Just Homes Realty Group: www.justhomesgroup.com Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: https://linktr.ee/thejuliahurley

This episode of ConnectTheKnox features a conversation with Stephanie Vozar, Director of Corporate Philanthropy at the University of Tennessee, focusing on her role in forging connections between the university and corporate partners to prepare students for the future workforce. Julia Hurley and Stephanie discuss the impact of these partnerships on retaining young talent in Knoxville, Stephanie's vision for the growth of corporate philanthropy at UT, and her personal journey from Flint, Michigan, to her beloved Knoxville. The discussion offers insights into how education and philanthropy are pivotal in shaping a vibrant, economically robust community.
 
 
Show Notes
(00:00) - Introduction to the episode and welcoming Stephanie Vozar
(00:55) - Stephanie's journey from Flint, Michigan to Knoxville, Tennessee
(01:31) -  Stephanie’s Transition from Young Williams Animal Center to the University of Tennessee
(02:48) - Overview of Stephanie's role in corporate philanthropy at UT
(05:10 ) - Addressing workforce needs through innovative educational programs
(10:47) - Efforts to retain young talent in Knoxville and the importance of internships
(14:10) - The evolving demands in key industries 
(16:33 ) - Future directions for corporate philanthropy at UT and potential team growth
(21:26) - Connecting students with industry opportunities
(24:06) - Stephanie's personal connection to Knoxville and her favorite aspects of the city
(27:57) - Closing remarks 
 
 
Links Referenced:
Visit Knoxville Website: https://www.visitknoxville.com/
University of Tennessee Foundation: https://www.utfi.org/ 
Young Williams Animal Center: https://www.young-williams.org/
 
 
Connect with ConnectTheKnox
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Just Homes Realty Group: www.justhomesgroup.com
Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: https://linktr.ee/thejuliahurley
 

Julia Hurley talks with Kristen Combs, the creative mind at Visit Knoxville and the author of 100 Things to Do in Knoxville Before You Die. Kristen's move from Michigan to Knoxville led her to promote the city's rich history, lively culture, and outdoor activities. She shares how her book 100 Things to Do in Knoxville Before You Die came to be, combining her marketing skills with her love for Knoxville's diverse attractions. The conversation covers the growth of Visit Knoxville's, Kristen's journey in selecting the best experiences in Knoxville, and how the city's growth and its community are closely linked.
 
Show Notes
(00:00) - Introduction
(00:48) Kristen shares her personal journey from Michigan to Tennessee
(05:09) Kristen discusses the inspiration behind her book 100 Things to Do in Knoxville Before You Die
(10:27) The future plans to enhance Knoxville's tourism appeal.
(16:50) Exploring Knoxville's Festivals
(20:00) Kristens Personal Recommendations and Unique Finds
(28:00) Closing Remarks
 
Links Referenced
Visit Knoxville Website: https://www.visitknoxville.com/
100 Things to Do in Knoxville Before You Die" Book Page: 
Kristen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristencombs 
 
Connect with ConnectTheKnox
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- Connect with Julia - 
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- Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - 
Just Homes Realty Group: www.justhomesgroup.com
Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: https://linktr.ee/thejuliahurley
 

Zack Roskop, the innovative mind behind Knox Brew Tours, shares his journey from uncertainty to creating a unique craft beer experience in Knoxville on this episode of ConnectTheKnox.
Host Julia Hurley delves into Zack's story of how a simple guided brewery tour in Asheville sparked the inception of Knox Brew Tours, blending his love for Knoxville, craft beer, and community engagement. Zack discusses the challenges of starting the business, the evolution of Knoxville's craft beer scene, and the adaptability and creativity that kept his passion alive during the pandemic. The episode also highlights the importance of community support and connection in enriching Knoxville's craft beer culture.
Show Notes
(00:00) Intro
(00:26) Julia introduces Zack Roskop of Knox Brew Tours
(00:50) Zack shares the origin story of Knox Brew Tours
(03:07) Adapting business operations during COVID-19
(07:00) The growth of Knoxville's craft beer scene and its community impact
(14:00) Introduction to Knox Brew Hub
(20:38) Zack's personal recommendations for experiencing Knoxville
(23:30) The future of Knox Brew Tours and the evolving craft beer landscape
(24:58) Ad - Just Homes Group
(25:34) The significance of local support and engagement for small businesses
(29:41) Zack's vision for connecting people through Knoxville's craft beer community
(30:20) Outro
Links Referenced
Knox Brew Tours: https://knoxbrewtours.com/  
Urban Wilderness: https://www.outdoorknoxville.com/play/urban-wilderness
Barley's Taproom & Pizzeria: https://barleysknoxville.com/
Connect with ConnectTheKnox
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- Connect with Julia - 
Follow me on TikTok
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- Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville - 
Just Homes Realty Group: www.justhomesgroup.com
Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: https://linktr.ee/thejuliahurley