Workspace Podcast

Grant Paxton, Donna Klein

The Workspace Podcast, hosted at Workspace Provision Co. in Youngsville, North Carolina, showcases conversations with fascinating people from the local community and beyond. From entrepreneurs and business leaders to TV contestants and unconventional trailblazers, each episode uncovers stories of challenges, lessons learned, and the determination that drives success.

Episodes

  1. Double-Wide Surprise: Homes That Raise the Roof

    1D AGO

    Double-Wide Surprise: Homes That Raise the Roof

    Unlocking Affordable Housing: An Interview with Sean Ade about Manufactured Homes in North Carolina In this episode, Grant and Donna sit down with Sean Ade to discuss innovative approaches to solving the housing crisis through manufactured housing. Learn about land home packages, changing perceptions of double-wides, and the growth opportunities in Franklin County, NC. Main Topics: The evolution and modern upgrades of manufactured homesHow land home packages are providing affordable options in North CarolinaStrategies for navigating zoning and market growth in rural areasThe competitive landscape, including industry players like Clayton HomesEntrepreneurial advice: Focus, industry passion, and avoiding shiny object syndromeResources for prospective buyers and investorsTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and behind-the-scenes of the podcast setup 01:02 - Discussing technical challenges with audio clarity 02:19 - How Sean ensures quality audio and setup tips 04:15 - Discovering Sean's business model in manufactured housing 06:36 - Sean's background and motivation for affordable housing solutions 08:19 - The high cost of traditional homes in Wake County and market gaps 09:02 - Details on land home package projects and rural housing initiatives 10:48 - The design and quality upgrades of modern manufactured homes 12:41 - Longevity, durability, and interior updates of manufactured homes 13:53 - Customization options and size potential for double-wides 15:12 - Regional market growth and zoning considerations 16:15 - Competition insights: Clayton Homes and other dealers 17:20 - Sean's virtual office setup and showroom showcases 18:26 - Connecting with Sean for collaboration or purchase inquiries 19:27 - Entrepreneurial advice: Focus, passion, and avoiding distractions 21:36 - Opportunities for collaboration between real estate and local businesses 22:33 - Closing remarks and gratitude

    17 min
  2. Jasmine Zavala: A Voice for Wake Forest

    10/30/2025

    Jasmine Zavala: A Voice for Wake Forest

    Summary- In this episode of the Workspace Podcast, host Grant Paxton interviews Jasmine Zavala, a candidate for the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners. They discuss Jasmine's journey from growing up in Wake Forest to her current campaign, her passion for education and community involvement, and her vision for local government. Jasmine shares insights into her background in business and public administration, her work with nonprofits, and her commitment to making a positive impact in her community. Keywords Wake Forest, Jasmine Zavala, local government, community involvement, education, nonprofits, public administration, campaign, Wake Forest Board of Commissioners, Grant Paxton Takeaways Jasmine Zavala is running for the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners.She has a strong background in business and public administration.Jasmine is passionate about education and community involvement.She emphasizes the importance of nonprofits in supporting government efforts.Jasmine's campaign focuses on data, equity, and heart.She believes in the power of diverse voices in leadership.Jasmine advocates for more women in leadership roles.She highlights the role of local government in community development.Jasmine shares her personal journey and growth through the campaign.She encourages community engagement and participation in local elections. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Background00:00:00 Jasmine's Journey and Campaign00:00:00 Community Involvement and Nonprofits00:00:00 Education and Local Government00:00:01 Vision for Wake Forest

    28 min
  3. From Frosty Treats to Business Feats with Richie Veverka

    10/14/2025

    From Frosty Treats to Business Feats with Richie Veverka

    Summary- In this episode, Grant Paxton interviews Richie Veverka, the executive director of the Greater Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. They discuss Richie's journey from owning Kona Ice franchises to leading the Chamber, highlighting his experiences in business advocacy, community building, and local economic development. Takeaways Richie Veverka transitioned from owning Kona Ice franchises to leading the Chamber of Commerce.The Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization, not a government entity.Richie emphasizes the importance of community building and local economic development.The Chamber hosts events like 'Deck the Halls' to support local vendors.Richie shares insights on using AI tools for business efficiency.The Chamber helps businesses with networking and promotional opportunities.Richie discusses the growth and development in Franklin County.The Chamber's role includes advocating for businesses and providing resources.Richie highlights the challenges and rewards of running a business.The episode concludes with a focus on upcoming Chamber events. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:03:00 Richie's Journey from Kona Ice00:06:00 Chamber of Commerce Overview00:09:00 Community Building and Events00:12:00 Using AI in Business00:15:00 Networking and Promotion00:18:00 Franklin County Growth00:21:00 Business Advocacy and Resources00:24:00 Challenges and Rewards of Business00:27:00 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

    41 min
  4. From Farm to Therapy with Kellie Syfan

    09/23/2025

    From Farm to Therapy with Kellie Syfan

    Summary-In this episode of the Workspace Podcast, Grant Paxton interviews Kellie Syfan, founder of Clove Hitch Behavior. They discuss the unique approach of using outdoor therapy, particularly with children and teens, to facilitate behavioral change and emotional growth. Kellie shares insights on the importance of understanding behavior through interactions with animals, navigating difficult topics in therapy, and the evolving landscape of mental health awareness. The conversation emphasizes the significance of aligning behaviors with personal values and the challenges of parenting in today's world. Takeaways Kellie Syfan emphasizes the importance of aligning behaviors with personal values.Outdoor therapy can be more effective for children who have had negative experiences in traditional therapy settings.Animals can provide valuable feedback on emotional states and behaviors.Understanding a child's behavior requires empathy and awareness of their developmental stage.Parents should consider the values of their family when responding to children's needs.Reinforcing positive advocacy in children is crucial for their emotional development.Self-awareness is key to breaking through self-deception in behavior.Mental health awareness has both positive and negative implications for individuals.Kellie's journey into behavioral health was shaped by her experiences and reflections on her own life.The intake process for therapy should prioritize comfort and fit for the client.Sound Bites "This is going to serve them best""I can be me and that stops at the beginning of your nose""What matters to us as the adults?"Chapters 00:00Introduction to Clove Hitch Behavior 02:25The Benefits of Outdoor Therapy 05:36Understanding Behavior Through Animal Interaction 09:40Navigating Difficult Topics in Therapy 12:30Kellie's Journey into Behavioral Health 14:26Insights on Child Behavior 18:08Strategies for Managing Child Meltdowns 24:21Breaking Through Self-Deception 34:34The Evolving Landscape of Mental Health Awareness

    37 min
  5. Episode 3 - From Mortgages to Pickleball with Matt Fries

    09/09/2025

    Episode 3 - From Mortgages to Pickleball with Matt Fries

    Summary- In this episode, Grant interviews Matt Fries, exploring his journey from a mortgage professional to a pickleball enthusiast. They discuss Matt's entrepreneurial spirit, his strategies for balancing work and personal life, and the importance of community and networking. Takeaways Matt Fries shares his transition from mortgages to pickleball.The importance of balancing work and personal life.Matt's entrepreneurial journey and lessons learned.How community and networking play a role in business success.Advice for small business owners on maintaining sanity.The role of social media in Matt's business growth.Matt's insights on real estate investment strategies.The impact of COVID-19 on the real estate market.Matt's personal hobbies and how they influence his work.The significance of having a supportive community. Sound bites "From mortgages to pickleball.""Balancing work and life.""Entrepreneurial spirit in action.""Community is key.""Advice for small business owners.""Social media boosts business.""Real estate investment insights.""COVID-19's market impact.""Hobbies influence work.""Supportive community matters."Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Matt Fries00:05:00 Transition from Mortgages to Pickleball00:10:00 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons00:15:00 Balancing Work and Personal Life00:20:00 Community and Networking00:25:00 Real Estate Investment Strategies00:30:00 Impact of COVID-19 on Real Estate00:35:00 Personal Hobbies and Work Influence00:40:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    21 min
  6. Episode 2 - Wellness Wisdom with Rita Haddad

    09/02/2025

    Episode 2 - Wellness Wisdom with Rita Haddad

    Summary- In this episode, Rita explores the world of holistic healing with a focus on ancient wellness practices. She discusses the importance of food as medicine, herbal tinctures, and essential oils, and shares insights into how these practices can transform one's health journey. The conversation also touches on the integration of traditional and modern healing methods, and the personal experiences that have shaped Rita's approach to wellness. Takeaways Sana Anima means to heal the soul in Latin.The wellness center focuses on healing outside the traditional medical model.Food as medicine, herbal tinctures, and essential oils are key practices.Healing the relationship to oneself and food is emphasized.Herbal tinctures like cat's claw are considered anti-everything.Essential oil blends are targeted for specific health issues.The importance of understanding contraindications with Western medicine.The role of energy healing and chakra balancing in wellness.The significance of personal motivation in the healing journey.The connection between emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Sound bites "Sana Anima means to heal the soul.""Food as medicine is key.""Herbal tinctures are anti-everything.""Essential oils target specific issues.""Healing the relationship to oneself.""Energy healing is part of wellness.""Motivation is crucial in healing.""Emotional health impacts physical health.""Traditional and modern methods integrate.""Holistic healing transforms lives."Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Holistic Healing00:03:00 The Role of Food and Herbs00:06:00 Essential Oils and Energy Healing00:09:00 Integrating Healing Practices00:12:00 Personal Motivation and Wellness Journey

    29 min

About

The Workspace Podcast, hosted at Workspace Provision Co. in Youngsville, North Carolina, showcases conversations with fascinating people from the local community and beyond. From entrepreneurs and business leaders to TV contestants and unconventional trailblazers, each episode uncovers stories of challenges, lessons learned, and the determination that drives success.