How do you start a distillery or whiskey business from scratch? In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, Randy Kerr sits down with Brandon McCraney, founder of Olde Raleigh Distillery. Brandon shares how his four years as an Air Force officer shaped his leadership philosophy, what he learned from senior officers about discipline and...
In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with Joshua Donahue, co-owner of Audrey’s Barkyard in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Joshua shares his story of growing up in a working-class household, moving multiple times as a kid, and learning work ethic early by watching his father build a career in landscaping. After...
In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with Jessica Daniels Harrison, Mayor of Zebulon, North Carolina, for an honest, non-political conversation about leadership, entrepreneurship, and growth. Jessica shares her real journey into business ownership — including starting a business before she was ready, becoming overwhelmed, and making the difficult decision to...
In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we’re joined by Graeson McGaha, a North Carolina comedian who’s built a loyal audience through viral generational humor, family-driven comedy, and authentic storytelling. This conversation goes beyond jokes. Graeson shares the behind-the-scenes reality of growing from content creator to touring comedian and business owner. We talk about...
In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with Aaron Wright, a serial entrepreneur who built and sold multiple pharmaceutical-based businesses before opening iSmash Wake Forest. Aaron shares how he knew early in life that he wanted to be an entrepreneur, why experience often matters more than formal education, and what most...
In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, Randy sits down with Ryan McEvoy, a former college hockey player turned multi-unit operator, franchise owner, and founder of a mission-driven nonprofit. Ryan’s journey started with discipline and sacrifice. When he opened his first uBreakiFix location, his business partner fronted the startup costs. Ryan moved into the...
Content Disclaimer: Some topics in this episode involve assault, grief, substance abuse, and personal loss. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with Ron Shirley, founder of Lizard Lick Towing and one of the most recognizable faces in reality television. Ron shares his full story — from...
In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, Randy Kerr sits down with Tanisha Butler, owner of Qwik Pack & Ship in Wake Forest, NC. Tanisha shares her journey from the corporate world into owning and operating a turnkey business alongside her family, and what that transition taught her about leadership, systems, and responsibility. A...
The CEO of the North Pole Santa Claus joins the Stay Broke Podcast! In this magical holiday episode, we explore how Santa leads the North Pole, manages the elves, innovates his Christmas systems, and spreads kindness around the world. Learn how he perfectly blends technology and magic to keep the whole operation going to make...
In this episode of the Stay Broke Podcast, we sit down with Jim Thompson, the new President of the Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce. Jim shares his journey from growing up in North Carolina to navigating college, switching career paths, and ultimately stepping into the world of association leadership. His career took him through multiple...
