Gallatin, TN June 2023

The Power of Influence and Responsibility

In today’s rapidly-changing world, local men around Gallatin and our surrounding areas continue to make an impact and a difference in the lives of others. Highlighting those stories and the individuals who are doing just that is equally important. In this issue, our Gentlemen’s Issue, we celebrate those stories, achievements and impactful moments that deserve recognition.

We believe that true influence goes beyond wealth or fame. It encompasses men from all walks of life who have used their skills, talents and passions to create positive change, inspire others and make a meaningful impact on their communities, industries and the world at large.

In this issue, you’ll read about the remarkable men who have risen to prominence in various fields. From business leaders and entrepreneurs who are disrupting industries and creating innovative solutions, to philanthropists who are shaping culture and inspiring others, to some true masters of motivation. This issue is packed with stories that highlight the diverse and dynamic nature of our men of influence who should be celebrated and recognized.

Through thought-provoking insight, inspiring anecdotes and practical advice, we aim to provide you with tools, lessons and inspiration that can help pave a path to becoming influential in your own ways. All of us have countless other people with whom we contact on a daily basis and many times, even a single interaction can prove to be powerful if we choose to use it for good and see it as an opportunity. This month, we showcase the journeys, challenges and successes of the men who have overcome obstacles and made a positive impact in their respective fields in hopes that their stories will inspire and motivate you to dream big, set audacious goals and pursue your passions with unwavering determination.

To all of our local men, fathers, friends and neighbors who continue to be role models for us now and for generations to come, thank you for all that you do and for the examples well set.

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Nicole Bell | nicole.bell@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Scott Bell | scott.bell@citylifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Stacey Norman | stacey@plumpoppyphotography.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nicole Bell, Scott Bell, Patti Gordon

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lyndsey Sayles Photography, Plum Poppy Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Photography: Lyndsey Sayles Photography, Nicole Bell

L to R (top row): Allan Blain, Scott Bell, Steve Moore; (bottom row): Dakota Cady - Gallatin Barber Co., Dr. Justin Moseley, Nick Bishop, Esq., Eric Blankenship, Erik Thornton

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @gallatinlifestyle

Sense of Taste Ribbon Cutting in Gallatin

Gallatin has a new eatery that showcases a unique blend of culinary creations that draws its inspiration from various rotating menu options. Whether dining in or carrying out a to-go order, some of their menu options include proprietary coffee concepts, vegan lifestyle options, children’s menus and originally-crafted desserts. Enjoy an experience and a taste that will enhance all of your senses.

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Gallatin

Unveiling New Brushstrokes of Fun

The perfect spot where creativity and fun collide is open in Gallatin! Painting Squared combines art and music with adult-themed paint and drink events, family painting game nights and kids’ events. Along with open painting and private parties, they offer splash rooms and pouring sessions for those looking for a more interactive experience. Whether you want to drop in, take part in one of their classes or plan a private event, there’s something for everyone!

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Gallatin High School’s New Sensory Garden

Gallatin High School students have a new way to stimulate their emotions and help them manage stress with the creation of an outdoor sensory garden. The garden was an idea presented by Mariah Beddingfield, a student member of the GHS Student Council, and came to fruition when Comprehensive Development Class (CDC) Teacher, Tabithia Graves, won two different grants: one from the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce and another from the Tennessee Valley Authority.

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GALLATIN GENTLEMEN ON A MISSION

TELLING THE INSPIRING STORIES OF OUR LOCAL MEN OF INFLUENCE

Men of influence are the individuals who have made significant contributions to the betterment of our local area and even across the globe. They are the leaders who inspire and motivate others to take action and their impacts can be seen in all areas of life. They are true examples of giving back and those who continue to do what’s right even when no one is watching. Their influence extends beyond their immediate surroundings and inspires others to follow in their footsteps, creating a ripple effect of change throughout the community to serve as an inspiration for future generations.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYNDSEY SAYLES PHOTOGRAPHY

NICK BISHOP

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND REGIONAL CENTERS, VOLUNTEER STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND?

I’m a native of East Tennessee (Go Vols!) and an 11th generation Tennessean. I was raised in a small rural town in Morgan County called Sunbright. I obtained my bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and received my law degree from Nashville School of Law. I joined Vol State in 2018 and currently serve as Vice President for Economic Development and Regional Centers. I’m married to my beautiful bride Mika and we’ll celebrate our seventh anniversary this summer.

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START THE JOURNEY YOU’RE ON?

Growing up in rural East Tennessee I saw firsthand the struggles that people faced and learned that education and jobs were often the common denominator. A community’s ability (or inability) to provide a structure for education and workforce and economic development determines the quality of life for its people. Communities lacking quality education systems, infrastructure, jobs and workforce opportunities unfortunately experience drug epidemics, high crime, poor health and despair. I felt led to try and help both communities and individuals become self-sufficient and succeed at creating a better quality of life. Community college is one of the greatest avenues to help communities and individuals do exactly that.

ERIK THORNTON

REALTOR AT EXP REALTY

WHO HAS BEEN A SIGNIFICANT INFLUENCE OR ROLE MODEL IN YOUR LIFE?

My grandfather was an incredibly hard worker who built a successful plumbing business in our hometown. His work ethic has stuck with me my whole life as well as the way he treated people. He worked on holidays to ensure his customers were taken care of. He’d commonly forgive invoices if customers didn’t have the ability to pay. He built his business on service to others.

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY?

Each quarter we select a different non-profit and support them by asking our B3 (Business, Bonding & Beer) community to donate items, money and time to that non-profit. I serve as a Habitat for Humanity board member and Gallatin Young Professional advisory committee member. I have also started a Living in Gallatin video series where we share information about the community as well as highlight different businesses and business owners around town.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR COMMUNITY?

Growth here seems inevitable. The secret is out and people are falling in love with Gallatin! I’d like to see a healthy growth that embraces our existing charm and history, while finding a way to do it even better so everyone continues to win!

DR. JUSTIN MOSELEY

FOUNDER OF MINDSHIFT

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START THE JOURNEY YOU’RE ON?

I have been passionate about personal growth since I read my first Tony Robbins book at age sixteen. That opened my mind to the fact that if you change your mindset, you can change your life. After a near-death accident in 2018, I shifted from changing lives in our clinic, to changing lives around the world. I began speaking and running mastermind groups to help people become the best version of themselves and to live their best lives. I have been blessed to speak all over the U.S. and internationally and I’m also a TEDx Speaker.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER ASPIRING BUSINESS OWNERS WHO ARE JUST STARTING OUT OR LOOKING TO GROW THEIR BUSINESSES?

Focus on serving others! I built multiple businesses off of this: Jesus didn’t come to be served but to serve, and then also, a Zig Ziglar quote, “You can get anything you want in life, if you help enough other people get what they want.” Your business will grow in direct proportion to the amount of service you provide.

WHO HAS BEEN A SIGNIFICANT INFLUENCE OR ROLE MODEL IN YOUR LIFE?

My dad has been a great role model and he’s where I got my entrepreneurial spirit from.  I remember going to work with him when I was younger and dreaming about running a business of my own.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME AND GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF ANY ADVICE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Enjoy the journey! Life isn’t about the goals you hit or the success that you achieve, it’s about the person you become along the way. If you truly want to walk out the calling that God has on your life, you have to exchange your comfort for your calling.

“THE MINDSET DOCTOR”

CO-OWNER & FOUNDER OF MUSIC CITY HEALTH CENTER

ERIC BLANKENSHIP

PRESIDENT, CO-OWNER OF ALL ACCESS COACH LEASING

WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND?

I was born and raised in the Dallas area. I started singing at an early age and pursued a singing career which is how I ended up in Tennessee. My wife and daughter moved to Sumner County in 1992 and I took a job in June of 1992 traveling with Ricky Skaggs. I sold T-shirts and then later obtained my CDL license to help drive their tour bus. I ended up driving until 1998 when I came off the road and started leasing buses for the company I drove for. In 2002, my business partner Jim Borelli and I decided to open our own business and the rest is history! My wife Rhonda and I have a son, Dallas, who also works with me now. We are also proud grandparents of our 12 year old granddaughter Lizzy!

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY?

Our company is a big supporter of the schools in Gallatin. We are proud of the Pedal Park at Miracle Park that we sponsor and we support our local non-profits that give back to our community. We are proud to be a part of this community!

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR HOBBIES OR INTERESTS OUTSIDE OF YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE?

I still enjoy singing and writing music and spending time with friends and family. I love to travel, I’m a big foodie and I’m always posting food pictures under #eatinwitheric.

WHO HAS HAD A SIGNIFICANT INFLUENCE OR BEEN A ROLE MODEL IN YOUR LIFE?

My parents taught me work ethic from an early age. I’ve had people who taught me about the music business, Tim Dillman who taught me about the bus business along with my business partner, Jim Borelli, who makes my part easy. My Wife Rhonda has supported me in all the CRAZY things I’ve tried!

*A special thanks to Gallatin Barber Co.

Influential Living and Intentional Success

Allan and Nicole Blain Embrace Adversity to Create a Ripple Effect of Positivity

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYNDSEY SAYLES PHOTOGRAPHY

Success doesn’t come easily. For Allan Blain, Gallatin author, podcast host, entrepreneur and lifestyle coach, success was the only option when faced with challenges and life-altering decisions in his own life. Out of obstacles and adversities that were overcome, success became both the bedrock of his family and the driving force that still keeps him motivated personally and professionally. Throughout all of the hardships encountered, Allan has been able to turn trials into testimony to help, impact and inspire others.

Alongside Allan, and his true partner in life’s success, is his wife Nicole. A large challenge they faced early on was when Nicole started experiencing serious health concerns in her twenties. With three young children at the time, Allan and Nicole searched for answers. Over the two years that followed, and after trying many medical and natural recommendations that did

not yield results, Nicole made some dietary changes and implemented a supplement program that consisted of whole-food concentrated extracts that helped her repair and heal. The transformation that the simple changes made became a catalyst for Allan and Nicole to use their knowledge and experience to coach others along the way on the same journey. From their own story of healing, a true heart for helping others was magnified and they made it their mission to help others through any means or medium necessary.

As a first step, Allan and Nicole immersed themselves in becoming oriented and experts in fitness and nutrition coaching. As Allan recalls, the first few years in this space was considered a hobby, but they used every moment in learning to find ways to grow and improve their own capabilities to serve others. As momentum continued and other opportunities presented

themselves, it became clear that this once hobby had evolved into something bigger that was going to allow them to pass on their own knowledge to others who were similarly looking for effective solutions applicable to their own lives.

“We love coaching from practical experience, not theory. I coach from 30 years of mistakes and lessons learned as a husband, father, police officer, general contractor, real estate broker, investor and the past eight years in our current nutritional business,” Allan says. Coaching is a lifestyle that the Blains have embraced and they continue to expand their reach and influence locally and nationally.

As Allan and Nicole continued helping those with various nutritional, health and life struggles as nutrition and leadership coaches, they realized that this area of life that they enjoyed doing “on the side” had grown to the point of generating a full-time income for their large family.

BEGINS

Continuing to find and evolve that passion for helping others find their own passions and solve various issues in life came naturally. Simply by doing the right things and having a heart for people, they were able to combine their own different skill sets in a way to connect and coach multiple people from various walks of life and they have enjoyed every moment of it.

The Blains have become great resources and leaders in the wellness space. They have created a community and ecosystem of positivity for those looking to change and better their own health. They are active across all their social media platforms, regularly interacting and openly helping those who are looking for related answers to common issues. Their websites continue to be helpful tools, they have a book in the works to be published and released at a later date, plans to launch their first Couplepreneurs Luxury Beach Retreat as well as an online course and mastermind for couplepreneurs.

As another way of expanding reach and impact, Allan also began a weekly podcast in September 2022 with the mission of sharing stories of success to encourage others who are looking for ways to succeed in their own relationships, finances, businesses, careers and health challenges. Each week includes an interview with a well-known guest who has faced some of the same relatable challenges in life and how they were able to overcome them and succeed anyway! These interviews focus on having the right mindset, winning strategies and powerful techniques that successful people must have in their lives. For the Blains, these very tools that have helped them to flourish in their

career and life personally, are shared as tangible ways to give back from so many lessons learned. Currently, the podcast Life’s Hard, Succeed Anyway is ranked in the top 3% of all podcasts globally and regularly features interviews with both locally and nationally-renowned guests.

Through their own personal stories, heartaches and triumphs, Allan and Nicole have been able to take back the power in their lives and share with others how to arm themselves with the winning mindset and strategies for success. Allan and Nicole are pushing to help others thrive in the most important aspects of life and helping people have a proper perspective in their own challenges so they can view and use those as assets rather than liabilities.

Keeping a clear vision for what they were called to do in helping others, Allan and Nicole still maintain that their daily relationship with each other and their six children is always their number one priority. Understanding the importance of investing not only in health but also in relationships with each other is key to being effective with a healthy work life balance and is the only way to be effective personally in the relationships they cultivate and professionally in the business they continue to build.

Together, Allan and Nicole Blain continue to be a formidable team and such a valuable resource of motivation and lifestyle to help people everywhere succeed. What once started as a hobby of necessity has proven to grow into a realm that has helped so many people from all walks and seasons of life.

"SUCCESS

WITH BELIEVING THAT WE ARE CAPABLE OF ATTAINING THE GOALS THAT WE SET OUT TO ACCOMPLISH."

-ALLAN BLAIN

HITTING THE MARK

On Target Shooting Sports hits the bullseye on education, training and safety

For someone who has never stepped foot into a gun shop before, the simple act of walking in can actually be quite the intimidating task. The unknowns of where to begin can be daunting. While this doesn’t have to be everyone’s experience, many gun shops out there simply perpetuate the tough guy image and reinforce the negative stereotypes. On Target Shooting Sports in Hermitage certainly works hard to break those stereotypes. When designing their new facility which opened in November 2022, they focused an immense amount of resources on ensuring new and seasoned gun owners had a warm and welcoming location that they felt could benefit everyone.

When you think about a gun shop or shooting range, safety, training and education may not be the first things that come to mind either. But for OTSS, these things are the foundation of every interaction and are the focus and priority every day as they work to instill these same characteristics into every individual who walks through their doors.

The mission of On Target Shooting Sports amplifies those very actionable items

as well. OTSS encourages gun ownership and strengthens the Second Amendment through support and education beginning with a person's firearm purchase. The team at OTSS encourages gun owners to learn and expand their knowledge and skills regarding firearms and personal protection in order to equip gun owners for personal protection and to be better advocates in the community in support of the Second Amendment.

OTSS sets the bar high compared to other ranges in the area with their professionalism, expertise and making sure each individual who steps foot in their store has a great experience. First-time gun ownership, particularly among women, has been on the rise for the last several years at a record pace. There’s a lot of misleading information readily available and for a new shooter, at times it’s difficult to weed out the bad from the good. The team at OTSS works hard to earn the trust of new and seasoned customers and strives to be the go-to source of information and offer expert guidance for each individual in a non-judgmental way.

In the retail store, you can find a wide range of standard and specialized firearms, ammunition, optics, accessories and gear. Accompanying the store is the in-house, indoor, state-of-theart range. The range truly is the standard of indoor ranges in our area and beyond. In designing and building it, no expense was spared and it shows from the lighting to the ventilation to even the noise dampening; all items come together for one of the most enjoyable range experiences in the country and we are lucky enough to have it in our own backyard!

On Target Shooting Sports also hosts multiple competitions, organizations and leagues as well. OTSS hosts IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) matches twice a month and they’re home to two chapters of A Girl and A Gun women’s shooting league. In addition to recreational leagues, OTSS offers many educational classes like the Tennessee Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit class and a Basic Firearms Safety class that is free and essential for every gun owner. OTSS also recently launched their comprehensive Defensive Shotgun and AR (ArmaLite) introduction classes.

As Kristin Benton from OTSS explains, “we want to make firearm ownership approachable and easy for everyday Americans and then walk side-by-side with our customers as gun ownership becomes a part of their lifestyle through training and education.”

As On Target Shooting Sports continues to grow, Kristin and the team say they’re looking forward to connecting with more organizations and companies in the area to offer the chance for teams to learn and grow through shooting sports and personal protection. Aside from education and doing all they can to promote safe and responsible gun ownership, OTSS will continue to offer the best retail and range experience around while upholding the highest quality training from instructors who are dedicated to the continuation of their own development. Being a responsible gun owner takes much more than simply showing up or just owning a gun. It requires an ongoing commitment to knowledge, training and staying up to date with current trends in industry safety. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, first-time gun owner or somewhere in between, we are fortunate to have On Target Shooting Sports as our advocate for advice, services, firearms and educational courses in our area. By providing a welcoming environment that isn’t always the focus of other ranges around us, OTSS is a place where those negative stereotypes are broken and where taking that first step through the door will make you feel right at home.

@ontargetshootingsports; 4803 Old Hickory Blvd, Hermitage

Smokin' with Steve

TIPS TO HELP MAKE YOUR BACKYARD SUMMER BBQ THE TALK OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD

For Gallatin resident Steve Moore, backyard BBQing has become somewhat of a religion in his circle. It’s become a way to bring friends and neighbors together for fun and fellowship as well as a creative outlet to try to perfect various dishes that deserve attention and elevation. Steve, a United States Marine Corps Veteran, takes pride in his

creations and shares with us a few pointers for your next outdoor BBQ. Whether you’ve been smoking and grilling for years, or even if you’re looking for your first smoker, Steve shares a few stories of his own experiences and other helpful tips to make sure your next BBQ is the talk of the next neighborhood gathering.

BY SCOTT BELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE

WHAT’S YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW DID YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH OUTDOOR COOKING?

I started getting into smoking/grilling about seven years ago. I had some BBQ in Texas and soon was hooked on the idea of trying to make it at home. I went through many recipes to understand how I liked the flavor, as well as a few different smokers and equipment until I found what fit me and my cooking style. The results I saw began to support my many trials and errors and I finally had my own system that I felt comfortable replicating.

WHAT ARE SOME BEGINNER FOODS THAT YOU RECOMMEND PEOPLE TRY TO MASTER?

The most forgiving dish to try to perfect is pulled pork. It’s typically a large piece of meat that you can season as much (or as little) as you want and you won’t be able to overdo it as the meat takes a lot to absorb all the seasoning. The next item I would suggest is chicken. You can do so many variations with chicken like legs, beer can, thighs, breasts and wings.

WHAT ARE SOME GENERAL TIPS ON SMOKING AND GRILLING FOR BEGINNERS?

It’s all about time and temperature . This requires patience as meats tend to

cook differently, at different temperatures and for different times. Having a time in mind helps with keeping things as controlled as you can.

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE FOOD TO MAKE? WHAT’S YOUR MOST POPULAR FOOD PEOPLE ASK YOU TO PREPARE?

One of the most requested things I make is my smoked chicken wings, but my favorite thing to cook is brisket. It’s a more challenging cook to get right and no one piece is the same when cooked. The right piece of meat is important but time and temperature are huge variables in the taste as well. But, when you get it right, to me it’s the best taste in BBQ.

WHY DO YOU CHOOSE PELLETS OVER CHARCOAL, PROPANE OR ELECTRIC?

Mostly for consistency. It may not get as much smoke flavor as real wood or heat up as quickly as propane or electric, but you get the same consistency every time. It provides just enough smoke flavor to give anyone that woody smoke taste they are looking for while keeping temperature well-regulated and consistent.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

EVERY SATURDAY THROUGH THE END OF SEPTEMBER

Gallatin Farmers Market

160 W FRANKLIN ST, GALLATIN | 9:00 AM

Open seasonally on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. through the end of September. Offering the season's best fresh produce, fresh baked goods, local honey, jams & jellies, goat milk products, farm fresh eggs, homemade pet treats, gourmet popcorn and locally grown plants. The market brings you items straight from the makers and farmers to your shopping bag.

JUNE 9TH & 10TH

Bold Enough Rodeo Challenge

TRIPLE CREEK PARK, 240 CHAMPION DRIVE, GALLATIN | 7:00 PM

Come join us for this two-night event of barrel racing, calf roping, bronc riding, bull riding, pony rides for the kids, food trucks and more family fun! Tickets are required, but cowboy boots and hats are optional!

JUNE 10TH

Kids Fishing Derby

LOCK 4 POINT PARK, GALLATIN | 8:00 AM

Calling all local kids ages five to 16! You're invited to test your fishing skills, win awards and participate in prize giveaways at this fun, free event on the Gallatin waterfront at Lock 4! Anglers of all ages, come support our future anglers in this fun outdoor event.

JUNE 14TH

The Movement Shop's One Year Celebration

1647 NASHVILLE PIKE, GALLATIN | 9:00 AM

Join us in celebrating our one-year anniversary at our Open House event! We want to thank our community for their support over the past year by inviting everyone to come and enjoy light refreshments, giveaways, chair massages and more. Meet The Movement Shop's team and learn more about what we offer as we mark this exciting milestone at TMS!

JUNE 15TH

3rd Thursday on Main

DOWNTOWN GALLATIN

SQUARE | 6:30 PM

Come out for some great food and entertainment and support your local downtown businesses. Bring your lawn chairs, friends and the entire family for a great night on the downtown Gallatin square.

JUNE 18TH

2023 Juneteenth CommUNITY Festival

536 BLYTHE AVE, GALLATIN | 2:00 PM

Join us as we celebrate the freedom that Juneteenth represents. This year's celebration also happens to be Father's Day, so grab your dad and/or kids and come enjoy some CommUNITY Fun. We will have a variety of vendors, a kids zone, local history displayed, local entertainment and so much more!