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.

Episode nine of the For the Love of Gatlinburg podcast, featuring Junior Watson, Store Manager of Food City, Gatlinburg's sole full-service grocery store, offers a rich exploration of Gatlinburg's history, community spirit, and future prospects. Junior's family has deep roots in the area, dating back to the 1700s when they settled in White Oak Flats, now known as Gatlinburg. The Watson family's seven-generation legacy in the town exemplifies the enduring connection many residents feel to this charming Smoky Mountain community.

Junior's personal experiences growing up in Gatlinburg, from enjoying local treats at the Donut Fryer to encountering wildlife, paint a vivid picture of the town's evolution. The transformation of Gatlinburg from a quiet mountain town to a bustling tourist destination is discussed, highlighting the positive economic impacts and the nostalgic sentiments of some locals. The episode also delves into the significant role of Gatlinburg Pittman High School in shaping the community, boasting impressive academic and athletic achievements.

Food City, under Junior's management, has become a cornerstone of community support, particularly during challenging times like the 2016 fires. The store's involvement in disaster response and community aid underscores the tight-knit nature of Gatlinburg's residents. Junior's active participation in the local Rotary Club further demonstrates his commitment to service, with initiatives ranging from flag-raising events to scholarships and community projects.

This episode also touches on the resilience of Gatlinburg's community, especially in the face of tragedies like the 2016 fires. It emphasizes the unified efforts to rebuild and support affected residents, showcasing the town's strong community spirit. Looking to the future, Junior expresses hope for Gatlinburg's continued flourishing while preserving its natural beauty and community values. The episode concludes with a call to maintain pride in local heritage and community bonds, ensuring that Gatlinburg's unique charm endures for generations to come.

Susie Greengold, a 71-year-old lifelong Gatlinburg resident, embodies the town's rich heritage and evolution. Her family's roots in the area date back to the 1700s, with ancestors like William Ogle and Jane Husky Ogle among Gatlinburg's earliest settlers. This deep connection is reflected in Susie's education, which included attending Gatlinburg Pittman High School and PI Beta Phi, a unique K-12 school funded by a sorority from Monmouth College, Illinois.

The Greengold family has played a significant role in Gatlinburg's development. Susie's great-great-grandfather owned the land where the Ober Mountain Tramway now stands. This tramway, built about 50 years ago, was instrumental in transforming Gatlinburg into a year-round destination by introducing winter activities and expanding its appeal beyond the traditional summer and fall seasons.

Today, Susie continues her family's entrepreneurial legacy through two main businesses. She operates The Maples' Tree store on Gatlinburg's main street, offering handmade quilts, custom T-shirts designed by her daughter Carrie, and engraved items. Additionally, Susie manages Far Horizon's Lodge, a unique rental property featuring two restored cabins from the national park, preserving a piece of local history.

Susie's experiences provide valuable insights into Gatlinburg's transformation from a small, seasonal tourist town to a vibrant year-round destination. Her perspective encompasses changes in local entertainment, wildlife conservation efforts, and the delicate balance between modernization and preserving cultural heritage. Through her businesses and community involvement, Susie Greengold continues to shape Gatlinburg's identity, offering visitors authentic experiences that honor the town's rich history while embracing its future.

Randy Watson, the General Manager of Gatlinburg SkyPark, was born and raised in the area. Watson's family has deep roots in the region, with his grandparents having worked for the Little River Lumber Company before the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Watson discusses beginning his career at the Gatlinburg Skylift at age 14 and eventually following in his father's footsteps to become the general manager. Throughout the conversation, he recounts witnessing the evolution of SkyPark from a single-chairlift attraction to a major tourist destination featuring the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.

Watson also addresses the impact of the 2016 wildfires on SkyPark and the subsequent rebuilding efforts, which led to significant improvements and expansions. The fire devastated the top of the mountain where SkyPark is located, destroying the original SkyLift infrastructure. However, the rebuilding process transformed SkyPark into a reborn attraction with improved facilities.

His stories highlight the resilience of the Gatlinburg community, the importance of family in local businesses, and the ongoing commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains while enhancing visitor experiences. Watson emphasizes the focus on stewardship and creating lasting memories for visitors, all while maintaining the integrity of the environment.

Mark Adams, President and CEO of Ober Mountain, has been a transformative force in Gatlinburg's tourism landscape for over eight years. With a background in managing major venues in Atlanta, Adams brought fresh perspectives to Gatlinburg, navigating challenges like wildfires and the COVID-19 pandemic with innovative strategies. His leadership during crises fostered community unity and resilience, exemplified by increased marketing efforts and adaptive messaging.

Adams played a crucial role in rebranding Obergatlinburg to Ober Mountain, honoring its legacy while introducing new attractions. Under his guidance, Ober Mountain has expanded its offerings to include enhanced ski lifts, an observation deck, zip lines, and mountain biking trails. A wildlife rescue area has also been added, emphasizing education and conservation efforts.

His focus on authentic storytelling and preserving multi-generational experiences has been key to maintaining Gatlinburg's charm. Adams' approach balances tradition with innovation, ensuring the destination remains appealing to both long-time visitors and new generations. He encourages visitors to experience both the vibrant downtown area and the serene nature trails, highlighting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park alongside urban attractions.

Throughout his tenure, Adams has successfully integrated into the community, overcoming initial perceptions as an outsider by contributing fresh ideas and building strong relationships with local leaders and residents. His commitment to Gatlinburg was solidified during the wildfires, demonstrating the community's resilience and collaborative spirit.

Adams' vision for Gatlinburg emphasizes authenticity, sustainability, and enhanced visitor experiences. His strategic approach to tourism, focusing on genuine family stories and diverse attractions, has significantly contributed to Gatlinburg's growth as a premier family-friendly destination in the Smoky Mountains. Under his leadership, Ober Mountain continues to evolve while honoring its rich history, ensuring it remains a cherished part of Gatlinburg's tourism legacy for generations to come.

In this podcast episode, Jackie Leatherwood, General Manager of Greystone Lodge in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, shares her deep connection to the area and insights into the local community. With 28 years at Greystone Lodge and roots in Sevier County, Jackie discusses her family history and childhood experiences that shaped her understanding of Gatlinburg.

The episode also highlights Jackie's active involvement in local and state-level organizations, including her roles on the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce board and the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association board. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for the community's interests.

Jackie recounts the community's resilience during the 2016 Gatlinburg fires and the formation of the Mountain Tough Recovery Team. She shares her passion for hospitality, focusing on building personal connections with guests and creating lasting memories.

The podcast concludes with Jackie's reflections on raising her family in Gatlinburg and her hope to be remembered for her kindness and love for the community. She encourages others to appreciate and contribute to Gatlinburg's supportive, community-driven spirit.