Podcast
Bottled Up
Hosted by Andrew Allen · EN
Bottled Up focuses on where the beverage business meets local business by sharing the stories, talents, and business savvy of some of the owners, staff, regulars, and musicians of the best bars, nightclubs, restaurants, music venues, and attractions on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Host, Andrew Allen, will sink his teeth into some of his favorite places while he uncovers the secret formulas that make these incredible places so popular and some legendary.
23episodes
Episodes
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Surviving & Thriving in the Restaurant Game with Will Sams
3w ago00:30:15Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew Allen interviews Will Sams, owner and head chef at Pearl restaurant in Fairhope, Alabama. Will Sams shares his journey from working his first deli job in Starkville after Hurricane Katrina, through culinary school at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, to cooking in New Orleans and Orange Beach. He explains how he developed Pearl's seafood-focused menu, sources fresh ingredients from local and regional suppliers, and maintains a family atmosphere at his small but popular restaurant. He also talks about the challenges of building a business, keeping quality high, and retaining employees. The episode wraps up with recommendations for first-time Pearl diners and where to find the restaurant online. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Diverse Culinary Journey and Education Will Sams shared his path from his beginnings at Bulldog Deli in Starkville after Hurricane Katrina, through finishing his business degree at Southern Miss while working nights in restaurants, to attending and graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in New York. His hands-on experience, including working both front and back of house during school, built the foundation for his later success. 2. The Importance of Adaptability and Understanding Local Markets Throughout his career, Will Sams highlighted the significance of adapting to customer needs and local demographics. While building menus for restaurants like Playa, he learned to balance creative themes with customer expectations, such as including well-loved staples like burgers even in themed spaces, and always considering what will actually sell. 3. Community and Relationships Drive Business Success Will Sams emphasized the role of strong relationships, both with local ingredient purveyors and with staff, in the ongoing success of his restaurant, Pearl. He described leveraging existing relationships with suppliers for quality ingredients and running a hands-on, supportive, and family-like work environment to retain employees and provide great customer experiences.
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Growing Together: The Story Behind Building the Reform Pilates Brand
Apr 1600:47:39Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew Allen interviews Reform Pilates studio owners Brandon Pike and Christina Pike. Christina shares her journey from nursing to running three Pilates studios on the Gulf Coast, beginning with nutrition coaching before expanding into fitness instruction. Brandon explains his role handling business operations and design, while Christina leads client relationships and classes. The conversation covers the studios' growth, how they balance client experience with expanding capacity, and the importance of building a supportive, tight-knit instructor team. They also discuss their approach to competition, why each location offers different fitness modalities, and their organic, passion-driven business philosophy. The episode closes with advice for listeners who want to join classes and a look ahead at what's next for their family and business. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Organic Business Growth Fueled by Passion and Community Needs Christina Pike and Brandon Pike described how their Pilates business started organically and unintentionally. Christina Pike began by helping friends with nutrition and accountability coaching, something that sprang from her own background in nursing and love of fitness. Her transition into opening a Pilates studio was driven not by a grand business plan but by client requests and her own desire to continue helping people. Their growth to multiple locations came from responding to community demand, referrals, and staying attentive to what their clients wanted, rather than aiming for rapid expansion. 2. Intentional Culture Centered on Relationships and Experience The Pikes put heavy emphasis on building a welcoming, intimate, and relationship-driven environment at their studios. Class sizes are deliberately kept small to maintain an individualized and friendly feel, allowing instructors to truly get to know and support their clients. Brandon Pike stressed how this atmosphere drives strong retention and sets them apart from bigger, impersonal studios. They also emphasized the positive, non-competitive culture among instructors, which, in turn, supports a happy, supportive client community. 3. Adaptation, Balance, and Staying True to Core Values The growth of their business, from one-on-ones to three studios, required adapting and trusting the opportunities that came their way. However, Christina Pike emphasized the importance of avoiding distractions from industry competition or trendy new fitness offerings. Instead, they focus on delivering what they do best and staying true to their vision and core values. Future expansion will only happen if it fits with these principles and their ability to maintain quality, rather than chasing growth for growth's sake.
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From Small Towns to Big Impact: The Story Behind CTR Response Agency
Mar 1800:48:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, host Andrew Allen chats with Clay Tyler and Ryan Meisch, co-founders of CTR Response, a digital ad agency in Southern Alabama. Ryan Meisch, originally from Illinois, shares how he moved from film school to advertising, driven by a desire for better career options. Clay Tyler talks about growing up in rural Alabama, his fascination with technology, and his journey into digital marketing. The two explain how they met, teamed up, and eventually launched CTR Response right before the pandemic hit. Together, they break down how digital advertising has changed, the importance of transparency and data, and how they've helped local businesses compete with big agencies using cutting-edge tools. If you want to understand digital marketing from the ground up, and hear some great entrepreneurial stories, this episode is for you. 3 Episode Key Takeaways The Power of Complementary Partnerships The origin story of CTR Response highlights how Ryan Meisch and Clay Tyler brought together complementary skill sets, Ryan's business and sales background and Clay's technical expertise. This "yin and yang" dynamic is emphasized throughout their journey, showing how their collaboration filled each other's gaps and ultimately laid the groundwork for their agency's success. The Shift from Traditional to Digital Advertising Both guests reflect on their careers, starting in traditional media (like TV and radio), and on how they witnessed the rapid evolution and growth of digital advertising. Ryan Meisch shared how he was initially more drawn to digital because of its transparency and measurable results, a clear advantage over traditional channels. Their story illustrates the broader industry transformation and how adapting to digital trends unlocked new opportunities for both themselves and their clients. Advertising Education Before Implementation A major part of CTR's philosophy is their focus on educating clients before jumping into execution. Clay Tyler explains that helping clients truly understand what digital advertising is (and isn't) empowers them to make better decisions and sets realistic expectations. This "education before implementation" approach aims to build trust and long-term relationships, and it's one of the key differentiators they bring to their boutique agency.
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Lisa Engel: A Lifetime Prepped For The Jump To The Gulf Coast Winter Classic.
Feb 1800:40:23Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew Allen talks with Lisa Engel, Director of Sponsorship and Marketing for Classic Company, about her journey into equestrian sports and event marketing. Lisa Engel shares how she went from growing up on a family farm in New Jersey to running major show jumping events across the Gulf Coast, including the Gulf Coast Winter Classic. She explains what makes show jumping unique, the variety of events at the Gulf Coast Winter Classic, and how the community gets involved. They discuss her career pivots from corporate America to full-time horse show management, balancing family life, and the passion behind these events. Listeners also get tips on attending the Gulf Coast Winter Classic, which runs from February 12th to March 22nd and is free and open to the public. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Deep Roots in Equestrian Sports: Lisa Engel has a lifelong connection to horses and equestrian events, starting from her childhood in New Jersey. Her family was not originally horse people, but after getting a free (unbroken) pony, riding became a central activity. This upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a passion that shaped her career and continues to drive her involvement in equestrian events. 2. Versatile Experience and Unique Skillset: Lisa Engel has worked in almost every role within the horse show world, from competitor to barn owner, trainer, and event producer. She also brings marketing and corporate experience to her current role as Director of Sponsorship and Marketing for Classic Company. This combination allows her to effectively bridge the gap between sponsors, vendors, and the riding community, something she believes is key to her success and "staying power" in the industry. 3. The Gulf Coast Winter Classic is a Community Hub: The Gulf Coast Classic horse show in Gulfport, Mississippi, is a major event running for six weeks, welcoming riders of all levels—from beginners to Olympic athletes. The event is open to the public with free admission, offering family-friendly experiences and a chance to witness world-class show jumping in a unique setting. Lisa Engel emphasized how the local community has become invested in the event, creating lasting traditions and connections between competitors and spectators.
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Making Small Business Big News: Marketing Lessons from Brooke Million O'Donnell
Jan 1400:40:11Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew Allen sits down with Brooke Million O'Donnell, owner of Millimedia, to discuss her journey in advertising, family business legacies, and the ever-changing world of marketing. Brooke shares how her grandmother founded Millimedia, her own unique career path (including time in the Virgin Islands), and her role helping both small and large companies boost their visibility. They talk about the shift from traditional to digital advertising, best practices for building a strong online presence, and how tools like AI are changing the industry. Brooke also offers advice to local businesses on how to get started with marketing. Tune in for great stories, practical tips, and lessons on adapting to new technology while staying true to your roots. 3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. The Importance of Evolving in Marketing and Advertising Brooke Million O'Donnell and Andrew Allen discuss how both of their family businesses have had to adapt to rapid industry changes, especially over the past 15 years. Transitioning from traditional methods (like dropping off tapes for TV ads) to emphasizing digital marketing, content creation, and maintaining an online presence has been crucial for their continued success. 2. Family Legacy and Personal Growth Shape Business Values Both speakers reflect on their roots as third-generation owners in their respective companies. Brooke Million O'Donnell shares how her grandmother's pioneering spirit in media, combined with her father's experience in marketing, inspired her path. Their shared experiences in family businesses highlight the value of commitment, adaptability, and a deep sense of responsibility to employees and the community. 3. Staying Ahead with Innovation and Best Practices Throughout the episode, Brooke Million O'Donnell emphasizes the importance of businesses of all sizes keeping up with digital trends—such as updating websites, using social media, and tracking analytics. She underscores that agencies like Millimedia provide comprehensive services to help local businesses compete and remain visible in a digital-first world, and she encourages even small business owners to prioritize having a strong online presence.
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Balancing Family, Business, and Pizza at Tony's Brick Oven Pizzeria with the Caldwells
Dec 1700:47:14Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Bottled Up, Andrew Allen sits down with Savannah Caldwell and Danny Caldwell, co-owners of Tony's Brick Oven Pizzeria in downtown Gulfport. They share their backgrounds in hospitality, how they became involved with Tony's, and what it's like to run a busy restaurant while juggling other careers and family life. The Caldwells talk about employee retention, creating a family-like atmosphere, upgrades to the restaurant, and starting their own food truck. They also discuss booking events at Tony's, what makes their space unique, and their passion for fostering great experiences for customers and staff. Whether it's classic pizza, a revamped sidebar, or supporting local events, Savannah and Danny give a behind-the-scenes look at building community through good food and genuine care. 3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Employee-Centered Management Creates a Strong Team Culture Both Savannah Caldwell and Danny Caldwell emphasized the importance of treating their staff like family, rather than just employees. They prioritize respecting schedules, valuing feedback, and fostering a supportive environment. This approach helps with employee retention, encouraging team members to stay and even return if they leave. 2. Continuing and Honoring a Local Legacy Taking over Tony's Brick Oven Pizzeria was about more than business for Savannah Caldwell and Danny Caldwell. They were motivated by respect for Mr. Tony and his long-standing commitment to the community. Their goal was to maintain Tony's legacy, serving loyal customers and building on the restaurant's reputation as a cornerstone of Gulfport. 3. Adaptability and Continuous Improvement as Core Values The new owners are committed to learning and evolving. Whether it's tweaking the menu, renovating the space, or optimizing event offerings, Savannah Caldwell and Danny Caldwell demonstrate flexibility and a growth mindset. They actively seek feedback, reflect on their daily operations, and aren't afraid to make changes that benefit both their customers and their business.
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The Art Of The Jingle With Paul Loomis
Nov 1200:40:02Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, host Andrew Allen sits down with Paul Loomis, founder of The Loomis Agency and partner at Luminous Sound Studios. Paul Loomis shares his journey from growing up in Washington, D.C., with a musical family to writing iconic jingles, such as "Stanley Steemer." He discusses his switch from dreaming of film composition to building a successful career in advertising music, working fast under tight deadlines, and creating memorable brand music for companies. Andrew Allen and Paul Loomis also discuss how jingles are crafted, the impact of AI on the industry, and offer advice for young musicians. Plus, listeners get to hear the debut of a new jingle for Allen Beverages. 3 Key Takeaways 1.The Evolution and Impact of Jingle Writing: Paul Loomis offers fascinating insight into the craft of jingle writing, discussing its evolution into "brand music" and how catchy, memorable tunes paired with effective brand positioning can drive remarkable business success. He shares notable examples, like the Stanley Steemer jingle, explaining how such work requires both creativity and an understanding of marketing psychology. 2. Adapting to Changes in the Music Industry: The conversation dives into how technology and artificial intelligence are changing the music and advertising landscape. Paul Loomis acknowledges using AI as a tool but warns about its potential to replace traditional human creativity in the future. He also touches on the challenges modern artists face with revenue due to streaming platforms, and the shift away from traditional band instruments toward computer-assisted music. 3. Music as a Multifaceted Career: Paul Loomis's journey demonstrates how a strong musical foundation can lead to diverse opportunities, from writing for jazz ensembles and collaborating with legends like Gil Evans to producing jingles and working on projects like Barney and Vanilla Ice. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both the creative and business sides of the industry, highlighting his experience building a successful agency and launching a record label that's finding success with new acts.
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Charity and Podcasting with Jourdan Derouen
Sep 3000:51:46Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, host Andrew Allen sits down with Jourdan Derouen, owner of Oliver Scott Insurance, host of his own podcast, and co-founder of Carter's Champions. Jourdan shares his story growing up on the Gulf Coast, how he got into podcasting, and his passion for community service. They dive into the origins of Carter's Champions and the annual Pink Dress Run, which raises money and awareness for cancer patients. This year, thanks to years of hard work, the event will provide free mammograms through Memorial Hospital. Jourdan also opens up about overcoming personal struggles, the power of failure, and why real connections matter in both business and charity. The episode highlights the value of resilience, teamwork, and giving back to the community. 3 Key Takeaways 1. Embracing Failure and the Power of Persistence Jourdan Derouen's journey highlights the importance of embracing failure as a part of growth. Both he and Andrew Allen discuss how failure is essential to learning and success—Jourdan shares personal experiences from dropping out of school to starting and evolving his podcast, as well as co-founding Carter's Champions. They both agree that being willing to fail, learn, and try again is at the heart of any self-made success. 2. Community Impact Through Carter's Champions and the Pink Dress Run A major focus of the episode is the Carter's Champions charity and its signature event, the Pink Dress Run. Jourdan explains the organization's origins, how it has grown (raising significant funds for cancer support), and the big milestone this year—offering free mammograms in partnership with Memorial, making cancer screening more accessible for the community. The event is depicted as a true community effort, supported by local businesses, volunteers, and heartfelt collaboration. 3. The Value of Authentic Storytelling and Human Connection in Podcasting Both speakers emphasize how meaningful conversations and storytelling are at the core of podcasting. Jourdan shares that the most impactful podcast moments come from genuine, long-form conversations where guests are comfortable and open, not just chasing popularity or clicks. It's these real, sometimes vulnerable stories that build connection, inspire listeners, and serve the greater good—be it in raising awareness, building community, or simply sharing life lessons. Let me know if you want more details or quotes from the conversation! Show Overview 00:00 Self-Made and Driven 06:04 The Importance of Self-Learning 06:49 Embracing Failure Early 09:58 Forming an Online Gaming Clan 15:47 Podcasting's Spontaneous Conversations 17:29 Podcasting Without Ego 20:07 Overcoming Fears and Business Origins 24:31 Local Business Tech Support 27:29 Late-Night Routine Reflections 34:33 Viral Clip Sparks Emotional Connections 35:59 Authenticity Over Fame 39:49 Initiative for Free Mammograms 44:57 Starting a Charity: A Heartfelt Endeavor
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With David Lewis
Sep 2200:44:18Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Bottled Up, David Lewis, Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, shares his journey from growing up in Jackson to revitalizing the city's cultural spaces and leading statewide arts initiatives. David talks about his early love for architecture and community, working on projects like the Welcome to Jackson mural and the renovation of the Mississippi Planetarium. He explains how public art can change city narratives, what it takes to fund creative projects in Mississippi, and how the coast has become a hub for vibrant arts. David also highlights opportunities for artists to get involved, apply for grants, and attend events like the Governor's Arts Awards and National Folk Festival. It's a conversation about intentional design, community impact, and celebrating Mississippi's creative spirit. 3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Public Art as a Catalyst for Community Change David Lewis discusses how public art projects, like the Welcome to Jackson mural, can reshape a city's narrative and inspire civic pride. He shares how intentional, community-focused design and art can help change perceptions and energize cities that might otherwise seem stagnant, while also attracting and retaining creative talent. 2. The Mississippi Arts Commission's Role and Impact As executive director, David Lewis explains that the Mississippi Arts Commission provides essential state and federal grant funding to support artists, arts organizations, and public art projects throughout Mississippi. Their work covers a wide range—visual arts, theater, music, cultural festivals—and aims to uplift creative communities from the coast to rural towns, enriching quality of life and boosting the state's economic and tourism profile. 3. Celebrating Mississippi's Artistic Uniqueness on a National and International Stage David highlights how Mississippi's unique cultural identity is being shared not just statewide, but internationally—such as the MSU School of Architecture's exhibit at the Venice Biennale. He also mentions upcoming events like the Governor's Arts Awards and the National Folk Festival coming to Jackson, emphasizing how Mississippi's stories, spaces, and creativity have distinctive value and resonance both locally and abroad. Show Overview 0:00 Exploring Art's Impact with David Lewis 3:10 Inspirational Art Teacher Influence 9:04 Architectural Education: Creativity and Advocacy 11:23 Returning Architectural Inspiration to Mississippi 15:52 Public Art Inspiring Civic Pride 18:49 Planetarium Renovation Vision and Strategy 21:56 Innovative Renovation and Revitalization 24:36 Mississippi Arts Funding and Support 29:52 Connecting with Mississippi's Creative Community 33:27 Southern American Novelty in Europe 35:07 Accessible Warmth of Southern Culture 39:02 Commendable Community Dedication 42:25 Supporting Mississippi's Creative Community
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From Marketing to Philanthropy: Emily Sham's Community Journey With The Red Cross
Aug 1300:36:42Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Buttoned Up, Andrew Allen talks with Emily Sham, the regional philanthropy officer for the American Red Cross in Alabama and Mississippi, and shares her journey from Madison, Mississippi, to the Gulf Coast. She discusses her background in marketing and event planning, her impactful work at Two Men and a Truck, and her passion for community engagement. Emily details the Red Cross's diverse efforts, disaster relief, home fire response, blood drives, and military family support, emphasizing the need for local involvement and volunteerism. The conversation highlights the unique spirit of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and ways listeners can give back. Here's What You'll Learn In This Episode: The surprising statistics behind local disasters: Did you know home fires are the #1 disaster the Red Cross responds to here? Emily explains why—and how you can help. Why the Gulf Coast is America's most disaster-prone region, and what that means for support and preparedness. The Red Cross goes beyond disaster relief in many ways, including free smoke alarm installation in at-risk neighborhoods, blood drives, and special support for military families. How you can make a difference: Volunteer, donate blood, or contribute financially—Emily gives you real, actionable ways to get involved locally. The story behind Two Men and a Truck's international journey and their Movers for Moms campaign helping women in need each spring. 3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. The Power of Community Involvement: Whether it's coordinating disaster relief, supporting military families, or running blood drives, engaging with your local community can make a huge difference. Emily is proof that one person's network can amplify support for entire regions. 2. Disaster Relief Goes Beyond Headlines: While the Red Cross is known for responding to hurricanes and fires, they're also working behind the scenes – most disaster calls in their region are actually home fires, not the natural disasters we typically think of. 3. Anyone Can Get Involved: From donating blood or volunteering, to simply staying informed, there are so many ways to support vital organizations like the Red Cross. 90% of their workforce is made up of volunteers, and local contributions stay local! Show Overview 00:00 Emily Sham: Local Philanthropy Insights 05:35 Franchise's First Marketing Efforts 06:17 Community-Centric Marketing Approach 11:35 Horn Island's Unique Coastal Experience 15:01 Joining Chamber, Focusing on Marketing 17:22 Red Cross: Beyond Disaster Relief 19:46 Mission-Focused Financial Efficiency 24:05 Red Cross: Certification and Military Support 28:34 Mississippi Red Cross Deficit Solution 30:45 Blood Donation App Simplifies Process 33:47 Coastal Life and Community Bonds
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