Growth by Insight podcast artwork

PODCAST · education

Growth by Insight

Growth by Insight is a podcast rooted in resilience and community. Through honest conversations with people who’ve overcome adversity, we explore what it means to rise above life’s toughest challenges and grow from them. The stories not only inspire but remind us of the power of connection, courage, and community. Whether it's surviving natural disasters, navigating a difficult childhood, or building something meaningful after hardship — these stories are meant to motivate you to keep going, get involved, and appreciate the strength in yourself and those around you.

  1. 52

    The Helene Series | Episode 51 - Solo

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.This episode brings the Helene series to a close. I want to sincerely thank everyone who listened, shared, and supported these stories, and especially the guests who trusted me with their experiences. You are the reason this series exists. I will be taking a short break before launching the next series, so stay tuned for what comes next.https://www.growthbyinsight.com/

  2. 51

    The Helene Series | Episode 50 - Jenifer Evans and Jill Queen, Hendersonville NC

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Jenifer and Jill have been fighting for months to get a major road in their neighborhood repaired, with no clear answers and no real progress. The Davis Mountain Road closure is hurting local businesses, making daily travel difficult, and delaying emergency response times. In this episode, they talk about the impact on their community and their ongoing search for accountability and solutions.

  3. 50

    The Helene Series | Episode 49 - Wayne Allred, Operation Mountain Relief

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Wayne is no stranger to helping people in need. Through his YouTube channel, he shares knowledge on suburban farming and self sufficiency. When Helene hit, he took action by delivering life sustaining supplies across Western NC. In this episode, we talk about the ongoing needs in the region and how local and federal government support fell short during the disaster.Guest's sites:https://www.youtube.com/@deepriverfarm3615https://operationmountainrelief.com/Prince Gas Company:https://www.facebook.com/princegascompany/This episode is sponsored by the McDowell Tech Small Business Center.https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center

  4. 49

    The Helene Series | Episode 48 - Sara Lowery, Essential Waters Counseling and Consulting

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.As a therapist, Sara brings a unique and insightful perspective on how people handle adversity. In this episode, we talk about resilience and how to maintain it under stress. Stress is something many people face every day, even outside of disasters. Sara also shares how she personally navigated Helene and how she helped her patients work through the emotional impact.Guest's site:https://www.essentialwaterscounseling.com/

  5. 48

    The Helene Series | Episode 47 - Sonny Carter, Big Yummy Feed The People

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Sonny and his team run the nonprofit Feed The People, whose mission is to fight hunger in Western North Carolina, an issue that has only grown since Helene. To date, they’ve served more than 77,000 hot meals. IIn this episode, Sonny talks about why feeding people is such a challenge, what his organization still needs, and what they have planned moving forward.Guest's site:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561978828280&locale=en_GB

  6. 47

    The Helene Series | Episode 46 - Stephanie Pitman, Mitchell County Long Term Resilience Group

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Stephanie from the Mitchell County Long Term Resilience Group is focused on connecting residents with support that is local, trustworthy, and tailored to their needs. Her organization partners with more than fifteen vetted nonprofits that formed committees for construction, volunteer coordination, wellness and spiritual care, communications, case management, and fundraising. Stephanie and her team are committed to creating real, long lasting impact in Mitchell County.Guest's site:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=mitchell%20county%20long%20term%20resilience%20group

  7. 46

    The Helene Series | Episode 45 - Mike Laws and Freddie Calloway

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Freddie and Mike have served with the Green Valley Volunteer Fire Department for years, and Helene became one of the toughest challenges they have ever faced. In this episode, they talk about the frustration of dealing with local authorities, the overwhelming support that poured in from their community and from people across the country, and how they managed to get into the local school cafeteria to keep everyone fed.Guest's site: https://www.facebook.com/100091574871634/mentions/

  8. 45

    The Helene Series | Episode 44 - Suzanne and Cody, Avery County

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Suzanne’s campground was destroyed during Helene, and Cody works with the Green Valley Volunteer Fire Department located right across the street. When the storm hit, Cody and the team helped evacuate people from the campground, an effort that saved many lives. In this episode, Suzanne and Cody talk about their frustration with local authorities, the way their community pulled together, and how Helene strengthened the bonds between them.Guest sites:https://www.mtnriverwnc.com/https://www.facebook.com/p/Green-Valley-Volunteer-Fire-Department-100091574871634/This episode is sponsored by the McDowell Tech Small Business Center.https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center

  9. 44

    The Helene Series | Episode 43 - Solo

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.My editing software had other plans this week, so the scheduled episode will be released at a later time.In this episode I give an update on upcoming guests and share details about a new project I am working on.https://www.growthbyinsight.com/

  10. 43

    The Helene Series | Episode 42 - The Dellingers, Avery County

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Christy Dellinger witnessed her neighbor’s home being taken out by a massive landslide, knowing he was inside but powerless to warn him. She shares what it felt like to face that kind of fear and uncertainty, and how helplessness can weigh on you long after the moment passes. The Dellingers each had their own experience, Helene strengthened their family and gave them a deeper appreciation for each other, their community, and the people who stood by them.Tasha Ann's sites:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/p/Tasha-Ann-Music-61560457334983/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tasha_ann_music_/?hl=en

  11. 42

    The Helene Series | Episode 41 - Tim Beatty, Maryland Helicopter Aquatic Response Team (HART)

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Tim Beatty from the Maryland Helicopter Aquatic Response Team and his crew had to learn mountain rescues on the fly since they were used to operating in cities. After Helene, they were busy rescuing people across Western North Carolina. Although Tim wishes it had been under different circumstances, he says the experience introduced him to incredible people and lifelong friends.Guest's site:https://www.instagram.com/md_hart_1/?hl=en

  12. 41

    The Helene Series | Episode 40 - Kristen Watson, Mountain Aid Project

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Kristen Watson leads the Mountain Aid Project, a community hub that provides both immediate relief during crises and long-term support for recovery. Their work focuses on people, art, environment, and education, driving meaningful change across Western North Carolina. What makes Mountain Aid Project special is its flexibility. Kristen and her team adapt to the community’s shifting needs, pivoting quickly to meet people where they are and provide the support that matters most.Guest's site:https://www.facebook.com/MountainAidProject/This episode is sponsored by the McDowell Tech Small Business Center. https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center

  13. 40

    The Helene Series | Episode 39 - Tami Krell and Carmen Jones, Appalachian Reclamation Koalition (ARK)

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.The Appalachian Reclamation Koalition is dedicated to improving life in Western NC, rebuilding private bridges, repairing homes, and reducing human suffering. After Helene, hundreds of bridges need repair or replacement, and many homes have been lost to landslides or ruined by mold. Tami, Carmen, and their network are working tirelessly to change that. They’re the kind of leaders every community needs.Guest's site: https://arkoalition.com/

  14. 39

    The Helene Series | Episode 38 - Andy Tait, EcoForesters

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.In this episode, Andy Tait from EcoForesters talks about the current state of our forests, how invasive plant species have spread after Helene, and why fire hazard awareness is more important than ever. With so many dead and drying trees across Western NC, Andy emphasizes the importance of taking action now to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect your home.Guest's site:https://www.ecoforesters.org/

  15. 38

    The Helene Series | Episode 37 - Carol Wolfenbarger, McDowell Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.When Hurricane Helene hit Western North Carolina, chaos and uncertainty followed. Carol, a healthcare and incident management professional, joined the McDowell Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to help locate missing people. Her team’s persistence and ability to cut through conflicting information ensured that every missing person in McDowell County was accounted for.Carol discuses what it takes to find people after a disaster, and the emotional resilience behind the work.

  16. 37

    The Helene Series | Episode 36 - Bud McCall, Appalachian Navy

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.After the storm, Bud McCall stepped up, delivering essential supplies across Western NC to families in need. What started as relief work soon opened his eyes to deeper issues: housing shortages and food insecurity that continue long after the immediate crisis. In this episode, Bud shares his perspective on the challenges still facing Western NC and why raising awareness is a critical first step toward recovery.Guest's YouTube and Facebook:YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Budf14Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1313538693422362This episode is sponsored by the McDowell Tech Small Business Center.https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center/

  17. 36

    The Helene Series | Episode 35 - Donna Cobb, Maw-Maw's Cheer

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Donna’s passion is caring for children in need within her community. Through her nonprofit, Maw-Maw’s Cheer, she provides food and clothing to kids who need it most. After Hurricane Helene, the struggle for families to put food on the table became even harder, and the emotional toll on children grew deeper. In this episode, Donna shares the challenges families are facing, how Helene has impacted kids mentally, and why her mission matters now more than ever.Guest's Facebook and website:Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1129671557991141Sitehttps://mawmawscheer.com/

  18. 35

    The Helene Series | Episode 34 - Andrew Chambers, Excel College

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.While the national news cycle has moved on, Western NC is still in the long process of rebuilding. Hurricane Helene damaged more than 6,000 miles of road, 100,000 homes, and 2,500 private bridges.Andrew from Excel College is on the team that launched the Better Together Coalition, a partnership committed to rebuilding over 300 homes in the Swannanoa Valley within the next two years. Their mission is clear: to rebuild Western NC, one home at a time.Guest's site:https://www.excelcollege.com/disaster-reliefThis episode is sponsored by Native Roofing.https://www.nativeroofing828.com/My listeners receive $500 off a roof replacement, or 10% off a roof repair when you use the code TYE.

  19. 34

    The Helene Series | Episode 33 - Caitlin Trew-Johnson, AMY Wellness Foundation

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Caitlin and her team at the AMY Wellness Foundation have raised millions for Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Their work goes beyond rebuilding homes, they’re partnering with other organizations to provide financial services and long-term support to ensure families truly succeed. This rare and innovative approach is exactly what Appalachia needs for lasting recovery.This episode is sponsored by the McDowell Tech Small Business Center:https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center/Guest's site:https://amywellnessfoundation.org/

  20. 33

    The Helene Series | Episode 32 - Trevor and Kat Rudisill, Peri Social House

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Kat and Trevor, owners of Peri Social House, a boutique hotel in Black Mountain, share their story of resilience after Hurricane Helene. When the storm hit, Trevor was stranded at the hotel, unable to return to his family. In the midst of uncertainty and limited resources, he transformed a difficult situation into something unforgettable, hosting a wedding reception that brought joy and hope to the community during a scary time.Guest's sites:https://www.perisocialhouse.com/https://www.goldrivercamp.com/This episode is sponsored by Edwards Family Farms NC:https://www.edwardsfamilyfarmsnc.com/My listeners get $10 off their first order with Edwards Family Farms when you use the code TYE10 at checkout

  21. 32

    The Helene Series | Episode 31 - Alyssa Hughes, Barefoot Baby

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Alyssa is the founder of Barefoot Baby and the Barefoot Baby Foundation, two organizations dedicated to bringing nature and family back to childhood, one memory at a time. In this episode, Alyssa shares how Hurricane Helene impacted her family, especially her daughter, and why it’s so important to check in with our kids when their behavior shifts. We also dive into why we love country living and the resilience it builds in families.Guest's site:https://www.barefootbabyfoundation.org/https://www.facebook.com/barefootbabyclothing/

  22. 31

    The Helene Series | Episode 30 - Star Thompson, Emerald Springs Network

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.When Hurricane Helene hit, Star started by checking on neighbors, delivering water, and cooking meals for her neighbors. What began as feeding 1,000 people in five days grew into a relief hub supplying farms and entire communities across multiple states. Now, nearly a year later, she has purchased storage containers, applied for nonprofit status, and is setting up for long-term recovery and disaster relief. Her story is one of resilience, service, and how ordinary people can rise to meet extraordinary challenges.Guest's site:https://www.facebook.com/esfgreenhouse/This episode is sponsored by Native Roofing:https://www.nativeroofing828.com/My listeners receive $500 off a roof replacement, or 10% off a roof repair when you use the code TYE.

  23. 30

    The Helene Series | Episode 29 - Ted and Kaila Thomas, Newland NC

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Kaila’s husband, Ted, is a firefighter and after Helene, she lost all communication with him.Not knowing if he was alive left her worried and scared.While his family waited, Ted was using his swift water rescue training to save lives, navigating dangerous floodwaters and bringing people to safety. But once the rescues were done, his next mission was getting home…a battle against mudslides, downed trees, and impassable roads.In this episode, Kaila and Ted share their powerful story of separation, service, and the fight to reunite after disaster.This episode is sponsored by McDowell Tech Small Business Center:https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center/

  24. 29

    The Helene Series | Episode 28 - Tammy Potter, Best Buy Metals

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Tammy witnessed the fear, panic, and emotional toll that Hurricane Helene left behind.Many were unprepared for the devastation, and the mental weight of what they saw.Despite the overwhelming negativity, Tammy also saw something powerful: communities coming together to help each other in their darkest hours.Today, she dedicates much of her time to helping her community recover and rebuild. In this episode, Tammy shares her experience, her perspective on resilience, and what it truly means to support one another after disaster.This episode is sponsored by Edwards Family Farms NC:https://www.edwardsfamilyfarmsnc.com/My listeners get $10 off their first order with Edwards Family Farms when you use the code TYE10 at checkout.

  25. 28

    The Helene Series | Episode 27 - Drew Crawford, Private Pilot

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Drew Crawford is a private pilot who didn’t hesitate to step up during Hurricane Helene, flying critical supplies into devastated areas when others couldn’t.In this episode, Drew shares what it was like navigating chaotic skies with increased air traffic, limited resources, and emotional weight from the destruction below.He offers a rare perspective on the mental toll and risks of being a private pilot in the middle of a disaster, and what kept him going.Operation Airdrop:https://operationairdrop.org/JAARS:https://www.jaars.org/

  26. 27

    The Helene Series | Episode 26 - Jim Artman, Resilient Recovery NC

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Jim Artman is a former Army sniper with a new mission: building stronger, more resilient communities in Western North Carolina.Through his work with Resilient Recovery NC, Jim is focused on sustainable disaster recovery and long-term environmental restoration.In this episode, Jim shares how his organization is making a real impact and why community resilience and connection are more important than ever in the face of disaster.Guest's site: https://resilientrecoverync.org/This episode is sponsored by McDowell Tech Small Business Center:https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center/

  27. 26

    The Helene Series | Episode 25 - The McDowell Chamber of Commerce

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Kim and Portia from the McDowell Chamber of Commerce share how they stepped up to support their community after Hurricane Helene.They discuss the devastating impact the storm had on local small businesses, many of which were destroyed or severely crippled.In this episode, they highlight why shopping local is crucial for community recovery and why connecting with your local Chamber of Commerce can be a lifeline for small business owners during both good times and disaster recovery.Guest's site:https://www.mcdowellchamber.com/This episode is sponsored by Native Roofing:https://www.nativeroofing828.com/My listeners receive $500 off a roof replacement, or 10% off a roof repair when you use the code TYE.

  28. 25

    The Helene Series | Episode 24 - Mike Boone, Little Switzerland NC

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Mike shares the incredible story of being swept away while inside his cabin during Hurricane Helene.Badly injured and alone, he faced the terrifying possibility that he might not survive.This episode is raw, eye-opening, and a powerful testament to human resilience in the face of disaster.This episode is sponsored by Edwards Family Farms NC:https://www.edwardsfamilyfarmsnc.com/My listeners get $10 off their first order with Edwards Family Farms when you use the code TYE10 at checkout.

  29. 24

    The Helene Series | Episode 23 - Daniel Wageman, Marion NC

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Most people weren’t prepared for what came after the storm, and that’s understandable. But then there are those who are ready for almost anything. Off the grid. Growing their own food. Equipped with the mindset to not just survive, but thrive in the face of disaster.Daniel and his family are those people. In this episode, Daniel shares what life was like after Hurricane Helene, and how he stepped up to help his community when they needed it most.

  30. 23

    The Helene Series | Episode 22 - Grey Hawk Bar and Gardens

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.After Hurricane Helene swept through Western North Carolina, Lake Lure was left unrecognizable.Silt, sediment, propane tanks, mattresses, refrigerators…debris from entire homes filled the water.In this episode, George shares what it was like to witness Lake Lure in the aftermath: surreal, unbelievable, and deeply disturbing. He’s joined by his partner Adam, and together they talk about how Helene didn’t just change the landscape, it impacted their lives, their livelihood, and their business in ways they never expected.This is a story about what the flood left behind, and what it couldn’t wash away.Guest's site:https://www.greyhawklakelure.com/

  31. 22

    The Helene Series | Episode 21 - Ryan, and Levi, Disaster Relief Haulers (DRH)

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.If you’re a farmer during a disaster, who do you turn to when you can’t feed your animals?What if nearby farms are struggling too, and no one has extra to give?That’s where Disaster Relief Haulers steps in. They deliver critical farm supplies to disaster zones, making sure those hit the hardest get the help they need, and don’t lose hope in humanity.Ryan and Levi detail what they experienced during Helene. Guest's sites:https://www.facebook.com/disasterreliefhaulershttps://www.disasterreliefhaulers.org/

  32. 21

    The Helene Series | Episode 20 - Bat Cave Wade, Bat Cave NC

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Imagine evacuating after Hurricane Helene… only to return and find strangers camping near your home, trashing the river, and denying locals essential supplies.In this episode, Bat Cave Wade shares how he and his neighbors dealt with the outsiders and how they faired after Helene.This episode is sponsored by McDowell Tech Small Business Center:https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center/

  33. 20

    The Helene Series | Episode 19 - Cody Bradford, Yancey County

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.You’re cut off from the world—no power, no cell service, and every road around you is impassable.What’s the first thing you do? Who do you rely on?In this episode, Cody shares what he and his family went through during Hurricane Helene—floating caskets, heartbreaking loss, and what it means to survive when everything falls apart.

  34. 19

    The Helene Series | Episode 18 - Dael and Mike, V-Twin Foodies

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Dael and Mike, founders of V-Twin Foodies, started out riding their motorcycles across the region chasing good food and great eats. But when Hurricane Helene hit Western NC, everything changed.They shifted gears—from restaurant stops to relief routes—delivering supplies to communities in crisis. In this episode, they share what it was like navigating devastated roads, helping strangers, and why they believe you shouldn’t wait for a disaster to start supporting your community.This episode is sponsored by McDowell Tech Small Business Center:https://mcdowelltech.edu/small-business-center/

  35. 18

    The Helene Series | Episode 17 - Amanda Watts, Burnsville Field Hospital

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Imagine being a nurse, volunteering at a field hospital after Helene. You're prepared to treat injuries—but nothing can prepare you for the emotional weight of what people are carrying.Amanda didn’t just tend to wounds—she listened to stories of loss, held space for grief, and did what she could to help people start healing, inside and out.In this episode, she shares what it was like to show up for others while holding back her own heartbreak.Guest's site:https://www.mountainstrong828.com/field-hospital-project

  36. 17

    The Helene Series | Episode 16 - Ivan Barnes, Bee Log Community & Relief Center

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Ivan and his neighbor were trapped at a local fire station—floodwaters made it impossible to leave. When the water started rising inside the station, they had no choice but to escape.In this episode, Ivan shares his near-death experience, how the community came together during Helene, and what’s next for the Bee Log Community & Relief Center.Guest's site: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bee-Log-Community-Relief-Center/61573149122344/?_rdrThis episode is sponsored by Edwards Family Farms NC:https://edwardsfamilyfarmsnc.com/My listeners get $10 off their first order with Edwards Family Farms when you use the code TYE10 at checkout.

  37. 16

    The Helene Series | Episode 15 - Sue Rawls, Brooks-Howell Retirement Community

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Sue is the Executive Director at Books-Howell Retirement Community in Asheville. After Helene, her facility had no power, no running water, and a staff pushed to the limit.She shares what it was like caring for hospice residents—figuring out how to wash them, their clothes, and linens with no basic resources. But the hardest part? Staying positive while carrying the mental weight of it all.Guest's site:https://www.brooks-howell.org/

  38. 15

    The Helene Series | Episode 14 - Carol Tyner, Mountain Strong

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Carol from Mountain Strong shares how her friends stepped up in a time of crisis—helping to run a field hospital, coordinating helicopter deliveries of life-saving supplies, and treating storm-related injuries. Now, through their nonprofit, they’re focused on something just as powerful: rebuilding community and restoring hope in Mitchell and Yancey counties.Guest's site:https://www.mountainstrong828.com/

  39. 14

    The Helene Series | Episode 13 - Shane Hilliard, Yancey County Sheriff's Office

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Shane, the Sheriff of Yancey County, opens up about the immense pressure of protecting his community during Helene—while grappling with failing communications and the heartbreaking knowledge that several of his own family members had lost their homes. It was a test of duty, resilience, and heart.Guest's site:https://yanceycountysheriff.org/

  40. 13

    The Helene Series | Episode 12 - Austin Edwards, Black Mountain Fire Department

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Austin, a firefighter with the Black Mountain Fire Department, shares the challenges his team faced during rescue efforts after Helene. With communication systems down, roads blocked by flooding, and serious sanitation concerns, they had to navigate crisis after crisis to help those in need.Guest's site:https://edwardsfamilyfarmsnc.com/My listeners get $10 off their first order with Edwards Family Farms when you use the code TYE10 at checkout.

  41. 12

    The Helene Series | Episode 11 - Krissi Bracken, Toe River Children's Advocacy Center (CAC)

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Krissi, who works at a Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) in Burnsville, opens up about the emotional toll of Helene and how she copes with its lasting effects. She shares how the disaster has impacted her community—especially the children already facing challenges at home—and the ongoing efforts to support them.Guest's site:https://www.toerivercac.org/

  42. 11

    The Helene Series | Episode 10 - Jeramy Stauffer, Nanostead

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.After Helene, Jeramy stepped up to run an information hub in Marshall, NC, helping the community navigate the crisis. He shares how the small town came together in the aftermath—witnessing longtime rivals set aside their differences, forgive one another, and work side by side to rebuild.Guest's business site:https://www.nanostead.com/Guest's nonprofit:https://www.marshallrelief.org/

  43. 10

    The Helene Series | Episode 09 - Sophia Phillips, Appalachian Rebuild Project

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.I sit down with Sophia from the Appalachian Rebuild Project (ARP) in Spruce Pine. She shares what it was like to witness her community’s destruction, how she and her family began helping their neighbors, and the story behind the creation of ARP. Guest's Site:https://www.appalachianrebuildproject.org/Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/appalachianrebuildproject/?hl=en

  44. 9

    The Helene Series | Episode 08 - Stacie Edwards, Edwards Family Farms NC

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Early on during Hurricane Helene, Stacie was alone, managing a farm and caring for two young children while her husband was away working for the fire department in a neighboring county. In this episode, she shares the hardships of facing the storm on her own and how the strength and support of her community helped her get through it.Guest's site:https://edwardsfamilyfarmsnc.com/

  45. 8

    The Helene Series | Episode 07 - Chip Conrad, BodyTribe

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Before Hurricane Helene, Chip was a gym owner in Micaville, NC. In this episode, he vividly describes the shocking aftermath—finding trees and four feet of mud inside his gym—and shares how the local “hippies and mountain folks” came together in an incredible display of community support and resilience.Guest's YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@BodytribechipGuest's Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bodytribefitness/

  46. 7

    The Helene Series | Episode 06 - Elaine Ollis, Ollis Farms

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Elaine, a dedicated farmer and owner of Ollis Farms in Newland, NC, faced devastating damage when Hurricane Helene tore through her land. In this episode, she shares how the aftermath felt almost apocalyptic and reflects on the incredible support her community—and even people from other states—rallied together to provide during the recovery.Guest's site:https://ollisfarms.com

  47. 6

    The Helene Series | Episode 05 - Michael Tingley, Homeward Bound

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Michael is part of Homeward Bound, a nonprofit committed to battling homelessness in their community. In this episode, he offers powerful insights into how the homeless population endured the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the devastating surge in overdoses that followed, and a personal account of listening to a missing client's last voicemail. His stories highlight the resilience of those facing hardship, the unseen struggles they endure, and the critical work being done to support them.Guest's site:https://homewardboundwnc.org

  48. 5

    The Helene Series | Episode 04 - Bobby Byrd, Pleasant Garden Fire Department

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Bobby Byrd, a Marion, North Carolina native and dedicated volunteer with the Pleasant Gardens Fire and Rescue Department, played a crucial role in rescuing stranded community members during Hurricane Helene. In this episode, he discusses abandoned homeless camps, the difficulties of reaching those trapped by the storm, and the emotional toll disasters take on both victims and first responders.

  49. 4

    The Helene Series | Episode 03 - Judi, Peggy, and Caroline, Local Cloth

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.Judi, Peggy, and Caroline talk about losing their studio and inventory during Helene. Their organization Local Cloth is dedicated to growing and supporting the fiber and textile arts economy in WNC.Guests' site:https://localcloth.org

  50. 3

    The Helene Series | Episode 02 - Ann DuPre Rogers, Resources for Resilience

    This episode is part of The Helene Series, focused on stories of resilience and recovery following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina.In this episode, I talk with Ann DuPre Rogers to discuss her nonprofit, Resources for Resilience, and its impact on the Asheville community. Ann shares how her organization helps individuals build resilience in the face of stress and trauma—especially those who have endured multiple disasters, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and Hurricane Helene in 2024. Guest's site:https://resourcesforresilience.com

Type above to search every episode's transcript for a word or phrase. Matches are scoped to this podcast.

Searching…

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.

Showing of matches

No topics indexed yet for this podcast.

Loading reviews...

ABOUT THIS SHOW

Growth by Insight is a podcast rooted in resilience and community. Through honest conversations with people who’ve overcome adversity, we explore what it means to rise above life’s toughest challenges and grow from them. The stories not only inspire but remind us of the power of connection, courage, and community. Whether it's surviving natural disasters, navigating a difficult childhood, or building something meaningful after hardship — these stories are meant to motivate you to keep going, get involved, and appreciate the strength in yourself and those around you.

HOSTED BY

Growth by Insight

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Growth by Insight have?

Growth by Insight currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Growth by Insight about?

Growth by Insight is a podcast rooted in resilience and community. Through honest conversations with people who’ve overcome adversity, we explore what it means to rise above life’s toughest challenges and grow from them. The stories not only inspire but remind us of the power of connection,...

How often does Growth by Insight release new episodes?

Growth by Insight has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Growth by Insight?

You can listen to Growth by Insight 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 Growth by Insight?

Growth by Insight is created and hosted by Growth by Insight.
URL copied to clipboard!