PODCAST · business
BrandBuilders
by The Dunstan Group
The Brandbuilders Podcast with your hosts Scott Dunstan and Brian Young is brought to you by The Dunstan Group, Charlotte’s premier provider of branded merchandise and logo’d apparel. Brandbuilders is produced in partnership with well-run media + marketing. Got an idea for the podcast? Email us at [email protected]
Episodes
-
473: Thomas Girdwood, Kingdom Demolition
Thomas Girdwood is Senior Estimator and Project Manager at Kingdom Demolition, a Charlotte-based demolition company founded in 2016 that specializes in commercial and residential demolition, selective and total demolition, and concrete cutting services across the Carolinas. Thomas has been with…
more -
472: Brent Schepel, Replay Sports Cards
Brent Schepel is co-founder of Replay Sports Cards, a full-service sports card retailer offering buying, selling, trading, and grading. Brent’s expertise in card grading is what launched the whole venture — he and his partner opened their first shop in Charlotte in 2021 under the name One Stop...
-
471: Lynsea, singer/songwriter
Lynsea is a Charlotte-based singer, songwriter, and performer whose music blends acoustic folk, indie pop, and alternative rock. Raised in Texas, she began writing songs as a kid, studied at Berklee College of Music, and later worked as Record Label Manager for Elevation Worship Records before...
-
470: Jason Watson, Dog Wizard/Recon K9, etc.
Jason Watson is a for-real serial entrepreneur. His career reads like a highlight reel of reinvention: He started in business development at American Woodmark and Bridgeway Media before founding Dublin Dog in 2006. He eventually sold that to Remington Outdoor Company in 2012. There, he launched...
-
469: Trent Bailey, Par Walker
Trent Bailey is the co-founder of ParWalker, a Charlotte-based startup that makes premium accessories designed specifically for walking golfers. Trent spent years in the marketing world — at NASCAR, at Ingersoll Rand, at Club Car, and most recently as Digital Marketing Director at Training The...
-
468: Skip Norris, The Building Center
Skip Norris is the President of The Building Center, one of the largest privately held lumber and building products companies in the United States. The company was founded in Charlotte in 1977 by his father, Ed Norris. And what started as a single building supply operation has grown into a...
-
467: Andrea Swope, Blueprint Financial Advisors
Andrea Swope is a founding force behind Blueprint Financial Advisors — a Charlotte-based registered investment advisor that launched in 2021 with a single advisor and a little over $20 million in assets. Fast forward to the end of 2025, and Blueprint is managing $1.4 billion. That’s not a typo.…
more -
466: Shay Gilchrist, Wine & Vibes, LLC
There’s a new generation of wine professionals out there, replacing intimidation with invitation, and gatekeeping with genuine hospitality. Shay Gilchrist is one of those people. She’s the founder of Wine & Vibes, a wine consulting and experiential brand built on four pillars: food, wine…
more -
465: Eleanor Shell – Resilient Magnolia
There are two kinds of resilience stories. One is the kind where someone overcomes something hard and comes out the other side stronger, more polished. Like in the movies. The other kind is messier. It’s told from inside; or what our next guest calls “the long middle.” It’s nowhere close to a...
-
464: Laurie “Nez” Donato, Nez & Pez
Next time you’re on your computer, look at the last five brand websites you visited. How many of them looked exactly like each other? Same stock photography, same font, same promise to “transform your business.” Marketing has a sameness problem, and most people in the industry have just accepted...
-
463: Chris Green – Schneider Tree Care
Charlotte is practically famous for its trees. They line the parking lots of office parks, anchor the corners of apartment complexes, shade the walking paths of neighborhoods we love. We trim them back when they get inconvenient, and sometimes — only when they fall — do we finally reckon with how...
-
462: Ryan F. Platt, Founder, A Special Needs Plan
There’s a question that lives in the back of the mind of nearly every parent raising a child with special needs. It doesn’t announce itself — it just sits there, quiet and heavy. What happens to my child when I am no longer here? For a long time, that question had no good answer. Families…
more -
461: Ryan Self, Chain Business Manager, Carolina Premium Beverage
In 2009, Charlotte had the distinction of being the largest city in the United States without a single brewery. Most people would look at that and see opportunity. Ryan Self did, and built his entire career from that moment forward. He spent thirteen years at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery — from...
-
460: Matt Donato – Partner, Echelon Risk + Cyber
Every business runs on data. Every data breach costs money, erodes trust, and — in some cases — ends companies. The question isn’t whether cybersecurity matters. It’s who you trust to protect you when the stakes are that high. Today’s guest built his career on that question. Matt Donato spent...
-
459: Jimmy McQuilkin – Executive Director, UrbanPromise Charlotte
What does it look like when someone builds their entire life around a question — not “what can I get?” but “what can I give?” Today’s guest has been quietly answering that for over a decade, and the results speak for themselves: hundreds of young lives redirected, a nonprofit that has become a...
-
458: Kenny Barnes – FRM Lighting and Controls
The right lighting can transform a space—from how it feels to how it functions—and behind every smart system is someone who understands both the technical side and the relationship side of the business. Our guest today is Kenny Barnes, General Manager of FRM Lighting & Controls, based right here…
more -
457: Fred Griffith – Charlotte Golf Carts
When you think “golf carts,” you might picture country clubs and fairways—but in Charlotte, golf carts are becoming a lifestyle, a way to move, connect, and have fun. At the center of that movement is Charlotte Golf Carts, led by entrepreneur and owner Fred Griffith. Fred’s journey hasn’t been a...
-
456: Todd Collins – Red Hill Ventures
Charlotte is growing fast, and a lot of that growth is being shaped by people who don’t just build projects, they build communities. One of those leaders is Todd Collins, CEO and founder of Red Hill Ventures, a Charlotte-based real estate firm and investment platform focused on innovative,...
-
455: Jinnie Austin, Fractional CMO
Today we’re talking about what it really takes to align brand, marketing, and revenue in a world where channels change daily but fundamentals still matter. Our guest, Jinnie Austin, is a Marketing and Ecommerce Strategic Advisor and fractional CMO who helps growing brands connect the dots between...
-
454: Claire Lechtenberg, Independent Picture House
Charlotte’s movie scene has something truly special — and it’s not your average theater popcorn experience. The Independent Picture House isn’t just a cinema; it’s a community hub for film lovers, artists, and idea seekers. As Charlotte’s only nonprofit community cinema, IPH is building something...
-
453: Alejandro Cerrudo, Charlotte Ballet
Today’s guest has gone from dancing in some of Europe’s most respected companies to becoming one of the most distinctive choreographic voices in contemporary ballet. Alejandro Cerrudo, danced professionally before he became Hubbard Street Dance Chicago’s first‑ever resident choreographer in 2008....
-
452: David Beam, Insulate America
Today’s guest helps power a national network you may not know by name, but you’ve almost certainly lived with their work. Insulate America is a nationwide group of independently owned insulation contractors that serves builders, remodelers, and homeowners all across the country. At the center of...
-
451: Michelle Castelloe, Moxie Mercantile
Today’s guest has built one of Charlotte’s most beloved “shop local” destinations by turning a little bungalow in Plaza Midwood into a treasure hunt of vintage‑inspired gifts, home decor, and local makers. Michelle Castelloe is the owner and operator of Moxie Mercantile, a community‑centric,...
-
450: Chuck Kistler, TIAA, Vaulted Oak Brewing
Today’s guest wears two very different hats that actually fit together perfectly. Chuck Kistler is the co-owner of Vaulted Oak Brewing, the popular neighborhood brewery on Monroe Road, known for its community vibe, big patio, and eclectic tap list. When he’s not pouring into the local beer scene,...
-
449: Carly O’Brien – Product leader, designer, creative project manager
She’s a strategic marketing pro, brand storyteller, and customer experience expert with more than two decades of experience driving growth for top organizations. Carly O’Brien is also the founder of Carly O’Brien Consulting, where she helps businesses refine their marketing, transform their...
-
448: Chad Jenkins – SeedSpark
Our guest today is a serial entrepreneur and growth-minded leader who’s built an entire ecosystem around helping other business owners think bigger. Chad Jenkins is the Owner and CEO of SEEDSPARK and the creator of SEEDSPARK CoLAB, a collaboration-focused platform that helps entrepreneurs…
more -
447: Mandi Boedicker – Dry Ink Designs
Our next guest is a visual brand storyteller who helps businesses look as good as they really are. Mandi Boedicker is the founder of Dry Ink Designs, a Charlotte-based studio specializing in logo design, visual branding, and websites that tell a clear, compelling story. From new launches to...
-
446: Mike O’Kelly – Surviving Outside Sales
Today’s guest has spent two decades in the trenches of outside sales, from pharmaceuticals and medical devices to capital equipment and beyond. Mike O’Kelly is the founder and host of the Surviving Outside Sales Academy – and podcast, where he helps sales professionals navigate a chaotic,...
-
445: Tammy Morath – Soho Therapy Group
She’s built a career around helping people find peace, balance, and real tools for navigating life’s challenges. Tammy Morath is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the founder of Soho Therapy Group — a practice built on compassion, collaboration, and community. From individuals to families…
more -
444: Dean Otto
Some stories are so improbable that if they weren’t true, you’d never believe them. Dean Otto’s story is one of them. A lifelong athlete, sales leader, and dad, Dean was out for a Saturday morning bike ride in Charlotte when he was hit from behind by a Ford F-150, paralyzed from the waist down…
more -
443: Jay McElveen, Goosehead Insurance
If you’ve ever tried to shop for home or auto insurance alone, you know it can feel confusing, rushed, and a little bit like guesswork. The McElveen Agency and Goosehead Insurance flips that script. Led by agent and agency president Jay McElveen, the Charlotte-based firm uses cutting-edge...
-
442: Tiffany Vandemark, Workhorse Media
Tiffany VanDeMark believes your brand is felt before it is understood — and she has spent her career helping people and organizations make that feeling count. From launching global experiential marketing and wellness initiatives at Chobani, to leading brand and revenue growth for health and…
more -
441: Wes Martin, Carolina Realty Signs
If you’ve ever bought or sold a home around the Charlotte area, you’ve probably seen the work of our next guest — even if you didn’t realize it. Those crisp, professional real estate signs that pop up on lawns and properties all over town often come from Carolina Realty Signs. Behind those signs…
more -
440: Kristi Martin – Feast for Good
Food has a unique way of bringing people together, especially in life’s hardest moments. Feast for Good does exactly that for cancer patients in the Charlotte area — organizing meals from local restaurants and food partners for folks braving treatment. By tapping into Charlotte’s culinary...
-
439: Sarah Hayes Harkins – the Long Room and Tango CLT
A former first company dancer with Charlotte Ballet, Sarah spent 15 seasons on stage before pivoting into teaching Argentine tango and helping run one of the city’s most versatile, artist-friendly event spaces. From weddings and live performances to weekly tango sessions and brunches, The Long…
more -
438: Todd Smith – Bechtler Museum
Charlotte’s arts scene continues to thrive, thanks to institutions that make creativity accessible and inspiring for everyone. At the heart of that movement stands the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art — a cultural landmark known for its stunning architecture, world-class collection, and inclusive...
-
437: Tanner Natzke — Attitude, Effort, Results
There’s a lot of talk about “grind” and “hustle” in the marketplace. But how exactly does that translate to “success” in sales, sports, and business?? Attitude, Effort, Results was built to change that. Through coaching, speaking, and the Attitude, Effort, Results Podcast, the brand gives…
more -
Kayla Haase, Charlotte Living Realty
In a booming city like Charlotte, real estate isn’t just about selling homes — it’s about building communities, telling stories, and helping people find their place. At Charlotte Living Realty Group, that philosophy is at the heart of everything they do. Known for hyper-local expertise and...
-
Angie Bush, Hospitality House of Charlotte
Few things are more powerful than the feeling of being cared for when you need it most. That’s exactly what the Hospitality House of Charlotte provides — a welcoming “home away from home” for patients and families traveling to the Charlotte for medical care. Since 1985, the organization has…
more -
434: Mary Ware, Carnegie Wealth Management
When it comes to securing your financial future, confidence and clarity make all the difference. Carnegie Private Wealth is a SouthPark-based wealth management firm, where Mary Ware and her team are proving that financial planning is about more than just numbers—it’s about tailoring strategies to...
-
433: Isabel Baker, Pure Commercial Cleaning
Most people don’t think twice about who cleans their office, bank, church, or car dealership… until something goes wrong. But for businesses that care about first impressions, safety, and employee experience, having the right cleaning partner isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Pure Commercial...
-
432: Daryl Larner, Larner’s Office Furniture
It’s no secret that the way we work has changed a lot in recent years—whether it’s the move to remote setups, hybrid teams, or flexible spaces that can do it all. But one thing that hasn’t changed? The need for a functional, comfortable, and inspiring workspace. That’s where Larner’s Office...
-
431: Price Litton – One Digital
Today’s guest brings a strategic mindset and a “people-first” approach to one of the most complex and important industries out there: employee benefits and insurance. Price Litton is a Client Executive at OneDigital, where he’s spent the last several years guiding companies through the...
-
430: Tim Rhodes – Novant Health Charlotte Marathon
Tim Rhodes is a guy who’s shaped one of Charlotte’s signature sporting events for over two decades. He’s the managing partner of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, now gearing up for its 21st annual running on November 15. Under his leadership, the marathon has not only shattered attendance...
-
429: Jared Londry – Point Blank, Tipsy Pickle, etc.
Our guest today is a builder in every sense of the word — of spaces, brands, and big ideas. Jared Londry is the founder of Point Blank Ventures, a Charlotte-based firm with a diverse focus that includes real estate investment, venture capital in hospitality and food & beverage, and creative brand...
-
428: Lepa Modie – SEW Balance, and author
Our guest today has spent more than 25 years helping people find balance — not just in their careers or relationships, but in their entire approach to mental wellness. Lepa Modie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based right here in Charlotte, and the founder of SEW Balance, a platform she...
-
427: Jennifer Payne, Core Innov8tions
Today we’re excited to welcome Jennifer Payne, from Core Innov8tions. With a rich background as a certified Pilates instructor, nutrition coach, and wellness educator, Jennifer is dedicated to helping clients move, improve, and transform through mindful movement and holistic health practices. At...
-
426: Amy George, By George Communications and LinkedIn Makeover
You know what they say about opinions; everyone’s got one, and they all stink. You might be able to say that about most people’s… LinkedIn profiles. Today’s guest can fix that. She’s Amy George, founder and CEO of By George Communications, a boutique public relations and storytelling agency here…
more -
425: Ashley Ausman, The Essay Architect
Today we have Ashley Ausman on the program. Ashely is founder of The Essay Architect. A former AP English teacher at Charlotte Catholic with two decades of experience, Ashley specializes in helping high school seniors bring their authentic stories to life in college application essays. She…
more -
424: Meg Fencil and Beth Suhr, Sustain Charlotte’s Biketoberfest
Welcome back to the award-winning BrandBuilders Podcast. Today on the program, we’ve got Meg Fencil and Beth Suhr with us from Sustain Charlotte. Meg Fencil is Director of Engagement and Impact… Beth is Operations Director at Sustain Charlotte. If you are one of the 157 people moving here every...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Brandbuilders Podcast with your hosts Scott Dunstan and Brian Young is brought to you by The Dunstan Group, Charlotte’s premier provider of branded merchandise and logo’d apparel. Brandbuilders is produced in partnership with well-run media + marketing. Got an idea for the podcast? Email us at [email protected]
HOSTED BY
The Dunstan Group
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does BrandBuilders have?
BrandBuilders currently has 300 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is BrandBuilders about?
The Brandbuilders Podcast with your hosts Scott Dunstan and Brian Young is brought to you by The Dunstan Group, Charlotte’s premier provider of branded merchandise and logo’d apparel. Brandbuilders is produced in partnership with well-run media + marketing. Got an idea for the podcast? Email us at...
How often does BrandBuilders release new episodes?
BrandBuilders publishes regularly with 300 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to BrandBuilders?
You can listen to BrandBuilders on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts BrandBuilders?
BrandBuilders is created and hosted by The Dunstan Group.
URL copied to clipboard!