Benchmark Happenings

Cindy Ketron joins us on this special Christmas Day episode of Benchmark Happenings to reveal the deeper meanings of the holiday, going far beyond the usual trappings of gifts and decorations. Together, we explore the roots of Christmas in the biblical narrative, tracing back to Genesis and the original sin of Adam and Eve. This sets the stage for a larger discussion on the need for redemption, a theme that resonates strongly with believers in Jesus Christ. Christmas, we assert, is a beacon of hope, reminding us of the promise of salvation and a return to a state of grace akin to the Garden of Eden. Through this lens, the holiday becomes more than a celebration of Jesus' birth; it's a profound reminder of the gospel's promise to restore what was lost.
We also share a moving story of faith, following a young boy's transformative journey to accepting Jesus Christ as his Savior. This narrative serves as a powerful testament to the role of the Holy Spirit as a guide and teacher, helping us to understand biblical truths and assuring us of our salvation. Cindy and I emphasize the concept of being "born again" and the responsibility of believers to live out and share their faith as guardians of the gospel. The episode underscores the miraculous nature of faith, the importance of pro-life beliefs in the Christian doctrine, and the conviction that Jesus is the sole path to eternal life. Join us as we reflect on the calling to embody the hands and feet of Christ in the world, carrying the hope and joy of Christmas beyond the festive season.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Discover the essential strategies for first-time homebuyers with our guest, Steve Reed, owner-proprietor of Benchmark Home Loans. We promise to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the tricky terrain of the 2025 housing market with confidence. Steve and I discuss the vital importance of selecting the right realtor and lender, steering clear of the common pitfall of relying solely on advertised interest rates or limited research. Rising interest rates have many potential buyers on edge, but with our insights, you can make informed decisions that work in your favor.
As we look ahead to the broader housing market trends of 2025, expect a refreshing shift toward more traditional home price appreciation, offering hope for increased affordability. Steve and I explore the intersection of interest rates, inflation, and wage growth, and how these elements might be influenced under a new presidential administration. We shed light on the wage growth disparity between job changers and stayers, offering a nuanced view of the economic landscape and its implications for home affordability.
Our conversation wouldn't be complete without addressing real estate market concerns, particularly the rising insurance premiums in disaster-prone regions like Florida. We stress the importance of engaging with insurance agents early in the homebuying process to avoid unexpected costs. Lastly, we proudly share our expertise in residential mortgage lending across Southeastern states, extending an invitation for personalized guidance. Reach out to us for support as you embark on your homebuying journey, and remember to like, rate, and review our podcast if you find our insights helpful.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Jenny Rogers, a certified life elite coach and dynamic creator, joins us for an episode brimming with inspiration and authenticity. Known for her vibrant journey of dreaming big, Jenny shares how the steadfast support of her family fueled her ambition to live a life untethered by fear. Her engaging storytelling reveals how experiences as a music teacher, author, and speaker have shaped her into a formidable force for creativity and empowerment. Jenny opens up about her book, "Mama Bear Meditations," which offers poignant messages of strength and courage, resonating deeply with communities facing collective challenges. Through her outreach work in Africa and her holistic coaching approach, she exemplifies how embracing one's dreams can lead to a fulfilling and transformative existence.
Journey with us as Jenny unravels how life's trials, such as trauma and divorce, can become catalysts for profound personal growth. She candidly discusses writing her meditation books as a pathway to connection and self-discovery, and how this endeavor tied into her coaching philosophy. Encouraged by success coach Mitch Matthews, Jenny transitioned into success coaching, empowering others to find clarity and focus amidst life's transitions. Her insightful methods emphasize individuality and personal growth, inviting listeners to recognize their unique gifts and explore new paths. Join us to uncover the powerful narratives that have shaped Jenny's path and be inspired to rediscover your dreams.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

Discover the incredible power of granting wishes to children with critical illnesses as we're joined by two special guests from the Make-A-Wish Foundation in East Tennessee - Garrett Wagley, president and CEO, and Hayley Relford, chair of the board of directors and realtor. What if you could bring hope, joy, and a touch of magic to the lives of these children and their families? Find out how the Make-A-Wish Foundation does just that, with over 1,750 wishes granted in the past 30 years.
Hear the heartwarming tale of Evan, a child whose wish of a red carpet premiere was made a reality, and learn about the psychological impact of making dreams come true for not just the child, but for their entire family. Uncover the inspiring stories that keep Garrett and Haley motivated and the processes involved in qualifying for and granting wishes to these incredible children in need.
But how can you get involved and help make a difference? Garrett and Haley are here to guide you through the many ways you can contribute, from the Grandstand Classic and the Magical 5K to the Make-A-Wish Night at the Ballpark. So grab your running shoes, your baseball cap, or simply open your heart and wallet, and join us in granting more wishes for these amazing children and their families.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.

How do you navigate the treacherous waters of transitioning leadership in an organization? And how can a founder's exit be a catalyst for growth, rather than a hindrance? Join us as we explore these riveting questions with Dave McCauley and Matt Overby, the dynamic duo at the helm of Summit Leadership. Through intimate conversations around their unique approach to leadership, they give us a keyhole view into the four pillars of their service - connecting, consulting, coaching, and caring - all aimed at fortifying communities and shaping leaders.
Discover in our candid chat, how McCauley, in a deliberate move, stepped down after a 10-year tenure at the organization he founded. He speaks about the necessity of succession planning, the value in finding the right successor, and creating a system that lives beyond the founder. Overby, the torchbearer, speaks about the importance of a seamless handoff and how to avoid becoming a tragic Olympic relay team - a story that is sure to pique your interest.
As we round off our enlightening conversation, we delve into the power of collaboration and the concept of a 'three-way win'. McCauley and Overby speak passionately about a business model where the business community isn't just a bystander but a primary funder, generating services for nonprofits and churches. We also touch upon the 'abundance mentality' and the significance of connecting the right people with the right resources, at the right time. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and insights, sure to leave you motivated, inspired and raring to make a difference in your own leadership journey.

To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.