Episode 12 of For the Love of Gatlinburg takes us into the heart of Gatlinburg's prestigious Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Mike Fowler, a local potter and artisan, is enriching Gatlinburg's art scene through his journey and contributions to the community. After falling in love with the area during his honeymoon in 2003, Fowler made the decision to move to Gatlinburg in 2006, inspired by the vibrant crafts community and local artisans. He now owns and operates Fowler Clay Works, which he opened in March 2015 and is approaching its 10-year anniversary.

The pottery business has gained significant popularity, ranking high on TripAdvisor for things to do in Gatlinburg, and offers interactive experiences where visitors can create their own pottery. Fowler's work is characterized by a brighter color palette and whimsical designs, setting it apart in the local arts scene.

Beyond his business, Fowler is actively involved in community leadership, serving on the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitor Bureau board and advocating for the arts and crafts community. His journey exemplifies the enriching impact of passionate artisans on Gatlinburg's cultural landscape, contributing to the area's appeal as a destination for both tourists and art enthusiasts.

Episode 11 features Kay Cox King, a 17th-generation Gatlinburg native and property manager at Mountain Laurel Chalets. Her deep-rooted connection to the area is evident through her family's significant contributions to Gatlinburg's development, including her great-grandfather Andy Huff opening the first hotel and her great-grandmother Martha Jane Husky Ogle advocating for education.

Throughout the podcast, Kay reflects on the changes Gatlinburg has undergone, from a close-knit community to a bustling tourist destination welcoming 12 to 14 million visitors annually. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining the town's charm and small-town feel amidst rapid growth and development.

Kay shares personal anecdotes, including frequent bear encounters and childhood memories of pool hopping across family-owned motels, which highlight the unique aspects of life in Gatlinburg. She also expresses her love for the area's natural beauty, particularly mentioning the Chimney Picnic Area and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail as favorite spots. Her deep appreciation for Gatlinburg's community spirit and walkable downtown area underscores her desire to preserve the town's unique character for future generations.

Looking to the future, Kay voices her hopes for Gatlinburg to maintain its magical essence and welcoming atmosphere while balancing growth with preservation. Her insights provide a valuable perspective on the evolution of Gatlinburg's hospitality industry and the challenges of preserving a small-town feel in a popular tourist destination. Through her stories and experiences, Kay Cox King embodies the generational hospitality that has made Gatlinburg a beloved destination for millions of visitors over the years.

In this captivating episode of For the Love of Gatlinburg, host Tom Goodwin welcomes Johnny Baker of Ole Smoky Moonshine to explore the charm and history of Gatlinburg. Johnny shares his deep-rooted connection to the town, from his family's post-World War II arrival to the creation of the world's largest moonshine company. He paints a vivid picture of growing up in Gatlinburg, describing it as his playground and highlighting the strong sense of community that has shaped his life and business.

Ole Smoky Moonshine, established 14 years ago, has become a cornerstone of Gatlinburg's tourism industry. The Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler entertains approximately 2.5 million visitors annually with immersive experiences including bluegrass music, moonshine samples, and storytelling. Johnny emphasizes the importance of authentic narratives and historical context in their tours, which range from exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences to group tours for motorcoaches and family reunions.

Gatlinburg's unique appeal is rooted in its rich artisan legacy and natural beauty. Johnny highlights the town's early recognition of local craftspeople, including his aunt Myrtle Connor, who showcased her weaving skills at the Smithsonian in 1963. The Arts and Crafts Community on East Parkway continues this tradition, offering visitors a diverse range of handcrafted items. The town's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and attractions like Anakeesta, Ripley's Aquarium, and the Sky Bridge further enhance its allure.

For the perfect Gatlinburg experience, Johnny recommends starting with breakfast at local favorites like Crockett's Breakfast Camp or Pancake Pantry, exploring the Arts and Crafts Community, and enjoying outdoor activities in the national park. He also emphasizes the town's resilient spirit, particularly evident during the 2016 wildfires, which demonstrated the community's "mountain tough" attitude. Johnny's stories, from hosting renowned musicians to interacting with international visitors, showcase Gatlinburg's unique blend of local charm and global appeal.