Benchmark Happenings

Have you ever wondered how you could make a difference in the life of a shelter animal? Join us as we sit down with the tireless Brandi Perky, director of Sullivan County Animal Shelter, and unravel her remarkable 10-year journey in animal welfare. From the cat room to the kennels and finally the office, Brandy recounts her experiences with passion and empathy, reminding us of the deep emotional connection between animals and their human counterparts.
Brandy's story is not just about caring for animals; it's about making substantial changes in their lives. Imagine reducing a shelter's euthanasia rate from a heart-wrenching 40% to a mere 3% in just four years! That's exactly what Brandy and her dedicated team accomplished through strategic protocols, community education, and robust programs. The measures not only provided immediate relief but also focused on the long-term welfare of the animals, such as low-cost spaying and neutering services. Also, get insights into the surprising benefits of microchipping and how social media plays a vital role in reuniting lost pets with their owners.
But what does it take to adopt a pet? Brandy walks us through the process, emphasizing the importance of regular veterinary care, dental health, and a solid understanding of the commitment involved. She also shares about the unique volunteer opportunities at the shelter, and upcoming events like the National Night Out in Bristol. This conversation is a treasure trove of information for animal lovers, potential pet owners, and anyone passionate about animal welfare. Join us and let's explore the world through the eyes of our furry friends!

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.

Ever wondered what sets a local, family-owned pharmacy apart from the big chains? Join us as we sit down with Colton Marcum, the passionate owner and pharmacist of Marcum's Pharmacy in Kingsport, Tennessee. From heartwarming stories about his grandfather, Carl, who founded the pharmacy in 1962, to the challenges faced by small business owners today, Colton, alongside his wife Catherine, offers a rich tapestry of insights. You’ll learn about the unique personalized services they provide, from customized packaging solutions to knowing their customers by name and going the extra mile even after hours.
Explore the importance of a strong team culture and community support in running a successful independent pharmacy. Colton shares how he and Catherine have cultivated a dedicated team and created a work environment that feels more like family. Discover the charm of the Tri-Cities area, which boasts a thriving community spirit and a surprising number of independent pharmacies. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration for anyone captivated by stories of perseverance, community involvement, and the enduring legacy of family businesses. Tune in for an intimate look at what it takes to navigate the world of independent pharmacies and the timeless value of community relationships.

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.

Ever dreamed of cracking the code to happiness as a homebuyer? This lively conversation with Steve and Jonathan from Benchmark Home Loans might just be your roadmap to success. Guiding us through the world of home buying and mortgages, they offer unique insights on how to strategize for the best outcome. Key to this is sourcing a trustworthy loan officer and planning ahead, as these can significantly enhance your mortgage experience. They also emphasize the importance of face-to-face interactions and remaining flexible, crucial factors to ensure you get the most out of your home buying journey.
Our discussion also takes a deep dive into the competitive market of East Tennessee and why having a Benchmark approval could elevate your offer above the rest. Jonathan, lending his expertise, unpacks why now might be the best time for you to buy a home. He also teases out the seemingly paradoxical notion of how higher rates could potentially open doors for buyers previously priced out of the market. Pair this with an insightful discussion about interest rates, guidelines, and home prices, and you've got a comprehensive guide to all things mortgage. Whether you're dipping your toes in the home buying market or eager to learn more about the process, this episode is an absolute must-listen.

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.