VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul

On this episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul podcast, host Lisa Marie Burwell, VIE’s CEO/editor-in-chief spoke with photographer, filmmaker and creative, Mark Little. Lisa and Mark reflect on his start into photography which came when Mark's first child was born. He's had a hand in all types of photography such as food, portrait and architecture. The transition into videograp...

In this episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, our host, VIE Editor-In-Chief Lisa Burwell, sits down with Stephanie Harlowe. Stephanie is a documentarian and a true crime YouTube creator who began her journey in 2017. Stephanie's goal from the very beginning was to give a voice to those who were silenced. Her passion first manifested in the interest of learning about history an...

In this episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, our host, VIE editor Jordan Staggs, sits down with Brett Whitcomb. Brett is part of a documentary filmmaker team with Bradford Thomason. Brett's catalog oscillates between archive-rich nostalgic portraits of pop culture, compelling stories of female empowerment, and observational snapshots of under-explored cultures. Brett's film "...

In this episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, our host, VIE editor, Jordan Staggs, sits down with Dayna Reggero. Dayna is a listener and award-winning documentarian whose first film effort was a tour of California’s sustainable farms with Discovery Communications and Chevy Volt. Then, Dayna collaborated with the Sierra Club on the Emmy Award-winning series “Years of Living Dan...

In this episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, our host, VIE editor-in-chief/founder Lisa Marie Burwell, sits down with Rebecca Sirmons, General Manager & Head of NASA+, and Megan Cruz, Public Affairs Specialist at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, at Redfish Film Festival. As part of Redfish Film Fest’s programming over the past two years, NASA+ has shared exciting docuseries and p...

In this special Redfish Film Festival episode of VIE Speaks, host and VIE editor-in-chief Lisa Marie Burwell sits down with documentary filmmaker Carrie Lederer to discuss her recent film, Wild Horses at the Door. As part of the Redfish Film Fest 2025 lineup, this movie brought the heartfelt and harrowing story of John Wayne Smith to the screen. Thank you, Carrie, for sharing this story and bei...

VIE Speaks was thrilled to host a special podcast pop-up studio at the Redfish Film Festival in Downtown Panama City, Florida, on April 26, 2025. In this special episode, VIE Speaks host/ VIE founder and editor-in-chief Lisa Marie Burwell sits down with Redfish Film Fest founder/director Kevin Elliott to discuss all things Redfish! This documentary film festival, celebrating its second year in ...

In this very special conclusion to Season 4 of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, we had the pleasure of hosting Pastor Jane Hamon, an international minister, pastor, apostle, author, and speaker. She and her husband, Tom, are the founders of Vision Church in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida—which also functions as the headquarters for Christian International, a network of over five thousand...

In this inspiring episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, host Lisa Marie Burwell sits down with visionary Dave King, the Chief Vision Officer at SOWAL House. From the world of tech and finance to the vibrant arts scene, Dave’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention. He opens up about how he blended his love for art with his expertise in technology to create SOWAL House, a dyn...

True creative spirits at heart, twin brothers Joshua and Jared Thompson belong to a musical family and began playing piano at a young age. Jared later picked up the saxophone as his chosen specialty, and both have become revered within their home city of Indianapolis and around the US. Known onstage as "Sock Joplin," Joshua Thompson is a pianist, music sociologist, and lecturer recognized nati...

Allan Branch, a third-generation entrepreneur from Bay County, Florida, has continued his family's legacy of business success initially built on restaurants and car washes in the 1940s. As a graduate and division one football player at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Allan excelled in athletics, academics, and many other hobbies before founding his online accounting platform, LessAccou...

As the founder of Stock & Trade Design Co. and a father of three, Michael Carey shares his life story and what led him to where he is today. This conversation includes everything from the inspiration for the founding of Stock & Trade to the idea and plans for the Harlan’s Place Foundation. Named after Michael and Marina Carey’s cherished son Harlan, who was born with Down syndrome, this foundat...

Florida native, author, speaker, wife, and Nashville resident Meghan Ryan Asbury walks us through her perceptions on life and living as one with a passion for callings from God. Throughout her time working at international ministries, college campus ministries, and Proverbs 31 ministries, Asbury wrote her first book, set to debut on September 10, 2024, titled You Are Not Behind: Building a Life...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jay Liles, a true Renaissance man who wears many hats: storyteller, musician, surfer, coach, and attorney. Jay’s positive outlook on life and his diverse career experiences make him one of our most fascinating guests. His wisdom and warmth shine through in this uplifting episode. Tune in to VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, where host Lisa ...

Join us for an insightful conversation in our latest episode of "VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul," hosted by Lisa Marie Burwell, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of VIE magazine. This episode features a dynamic duo: David Richard and Chef Tom Catherall, co-owners of Aja 30A and Lola Coastal Italian in the Scenic Highway 30-A region of Florida. Chef Tom Catherall, a certified Master Chef...

A storied career spanning nearly three decades has fostered a reputation for exquisite interior design, with projects across Dallas, Aspen, New Orleans, and the gorgeous Gulf Coast of Florida. Headquartered in what can only be described as an architectural hamlet unlike any other, Susan Lovelace and her eponymous business, Lovelace Interiors, are based in Inlet Beach, Florida, near the notable ...

Join us for an inspiring conversation in our latest episode of "VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul," featuring host Lisa Marie Burwell, Founder/Editor-in-Chief of VIE magazine, alongside Chris Burch, Founder/Owner of Grand Bay Construction, which is nearing its 20th anniversary. From humble beginnings in a one-car garage, the company has grown to a multimillion-dollar boutique business...

Join us for an engaging conversation in our latest Conversation with Heart & Soul, featuring Lisa Marie Burwell, host of VIE Speaks and Founder/Editor-in-Chief of VIE Magazine. She is joined by authors Joseph Forest Riccobono and Peter Compagno, as well as Executive Producer David Richard, to discuss their captivating graphic novel, "Days of Darkness," which they plan to transform into a compel...

Recently, Lisa Marie Burwell, the host of VIE Speaks and the founder/CEO/editor-in-chief of VIE Magazine, had the pleasure of sitting down with Lesly Simon, a former record label executive and current business owner, realtor at Colgan Simon Wright group with Corcoran Reverie, and interior designer at Colgan Simon. A seasoned music industry veteran, Lesly has worked with icons such as Garth Broo...

Join us in this special crossover episode as Lisa Marie Burwell, Editor-in-Chief of VIE Magazine and host of the VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart and Soul podcast, sits down with Jordan Staggs, Editor at VIE Magazine and host of the VIE Book Club podcast. This episode invites listeners to take an exclusive look inside VIE’s vibrant history and rejoice in key moments that built the brand and...

As a budding outdoorsman growing up in northern Virginia, Kurt Tobias never dreamed of founding a clothing brand one day. While fishing and fashion might not seem to mesh, Tobias and his team at Choona have proved that technical wear for the avid sportsman can be more than just khakis and cargos. The company’s lightweight, stylish, and functional clothing has already become a favorite among spo...

Arix Zalace, a renowned filmmaker, longtime Florida Panhandle resident, and owner of AZA Productions, joined the VIE Speaks lineup to share his creative vision for the upcoming feature film The Paper Bear. In partnership with social entrepreneur and philanthropist Sean Couch, Zalace honed a shared vision to protect and preserve the Panhandle’s natural wonders. Beyond a mere film, The Paper Bear...

Discover all that Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort has to offer as it celebrates 50 years in 2024! On the latest episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart and Soul, host Lisa Marie Burwell sat down with Sandestin Director of Marketing Communications April Sarver to reflect on all Sandestin has accomplished over the years. Sarver shares insights, from working behind the scenes on the widely r...

This week on VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart and Soul, John Wellborn, the founder of Live Well 30A, shares his life story about risk-taking in pursuit of purpose. An entrepreneur and visionary at heart, Wellborn had an epiphany on his twenty-eighth birthday while working at a corporate job in Atlanta; on the surface, he had everything, but his intuition told him to choose a different path—...

Meet a renaissance woman who created and defined her own destiny, reaching pinnacles of success and glamour usually only found in movies. High fashion and beauty icon Vicky Tiel knows all about how to live a "real" life, and she has the stories, victories, and photos to prove it. This fashion designer and renegade defied convention and crafted the world’s first miniskirt in a world of 1960s ank...

On this episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart and Soul is Madra McDonald, the visionary/founder behind M Public Relations, a premier boutique public relations firm in Northwest Florida. With over a decade of expertise, Madra is passionate about spotlighting clients to increase and maximize their brand awareness through thoughtful and strategic social and traditional programs. Today, s...

On this episode of VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart and Soul, Derek McMahon of 4x4 Fitness, the VIE Team’s personal trainer, joined the line-up. 4x4 Fitness was founded by former NFL player and Buffalo Bills fullback, Zach Olstad to bring the gym and support to you, in the comfort of your own home or backyard; while 4x4 Fitness offers training in the Nashville area, Derek heads the company ...

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation has been connecting wine enthusiasts to raise money benefiting children in need in Northwest Florida since 2005. Recently, VIE Speaks host, Lisa Marie Burwell, sat down with Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation's (DCWAF) President, Karah Young, to talk all things wine and fundraising. Karah has been with the organization since she graduated from college ...

Discover the enchanting allure of Walton County, where both locals and tourists are captivated by the indescribable charm of its landscapes and beaches. In this engaging episode, Matt Alagrin and Kelli Carter from Walton County tourism unveil an exclusive and never-before-heard perspective on the rich history, vibrant culture, and fascinating stories that define this picturesque destination. Fr...

Northwest Florida-based real estate developer and asset manager The St. Joe Company focuses on thoughtfully planned destinations to live, work, play, shop, and vacation near the region's beautiful white-sand beaches. A diverse portfolio and responsible growth are the key drivers behind several new developments in our area. This episode with Rhea Goff, SVP and Chief Administrative Officer, offer...

Misty Parenzan graced the VIE Speaks: Conversation with Heart and Soul stage this week as she candidly shares about her life’s journey through trauma, addiction, and uncertainty to finding herself and reclaiming her connection with God. Delve into the depths of Misty's story as she opens up about her path to penning the transformative pages of "He Was Always There." A homeschool mom of nine and...

This week on VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart and Soul, Melanie Turner joined the guest line-up. Melanie is an Atlanta-based interior designer and creative behind Melanie Turner Interiors. She is known for designing beautiful homes across the Southeast, including the Santa Rosa Beach area where VIE is headquartered. This conversation highlights her design background, her recent 30A show hom...

Nationally recognized restaurateur Chef Jim Shirley sat down with VIE Speaks host, Lisa Marie Burwell, to talk all things food and stories about building his brand in Northwest Florida. Chef Jim Shirley is the owner of The Great Southern Café, The Meltdown on 30A, The Bay, Farm & Fire, North Beach Social, The C-Bar, b.f.f., and 87 Central Square in South Walton, Florida. Chef Jim uses Southern...

Meet Jennifer Steele, a long-time 30A local who has had a heart for her community since she was just five years old. Jennifer has worked with companies like The REP Theater and started her own consulting company and theater company, and eventually found herself helping out the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Walton County with its annual ArtsQuest festival. This position turned into her leading...

On this episode of VIE Speaks, host Lisa Marie Burwell sat down with the CEO of Zehnder Communications, Jeff Zehnder, whose marketing and advertising company helps businesses around the US. Jeff is also the 2023 chairman of The Seaside Institute, a nonprofit organization based in Seaside, Florida, built on sharing and furthering the mission of the New Urbanism principles of architecture, town p...

Marisol Gullo has a new point of view, and she joined VIE Speaks host, Lisa Marie Burwell, to share her full story! Sophisticated and chic, Marisol says she fell in love with the South Walton, Florida, area’s fine homes when she owned a cleaning business and always ensured she was doing the best job so she could grow her reputation and income. Marisol matter-of-factly says, "I am a very determi...

Musicians are often celebrated for their creative productivity, and Patrick Davis is no exception. Over two decades, Davis, endearingly referred to as a Southern storyteller, has made a lasting impression on the stage, in the writing room, and as a critically acclaimed solo artist. However, his most significant contribution may be nurturing Songwriters in Paradise. This intimate concert series ...

The future of beauty is regenerative, but what exactly does that mean? This week on VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, VIE Magazine Editor-in-Chief and host Lisa Marie Burwell sits down with Kim Walls, a fourth-generation entrepreneur, beauty formula pioneer, and CEO of Furtuna Skin. Kim shares her expertise on the beauty industry (and how she is radically challenging skincare as we k...

This week on VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, Lisa sits down with Edward San Juan, the President of E.F. San Juan, to discuss what it’s like running a third-generation family business. Now celebrating more than 45 years in business, E.F. San Juan is known for its custom architectural moulding, millwork, and cabinetry, all designed and built by a team of skilled craftsmen. Edward can...

Community is everything to Carly Barnes, Executive Director at Caring and Sharing South Walton. Founded in 1994, Caring and Sharing is a crucial resource for South Walton residents seeking crisis relief. In this episode, Lisa and Carly discuss how Caring and Sharing provide financial assistance, food, counseling, and case management, brought to life by real stories of community members Carly ha...

This week on VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart and Soul, Emeril Lagasse joined the guest line-up–a man who needs no introduction. A World-Renowned Chef, Restaurateur, TV Personality, Philanthropist, and Author, Emeril practices excellence in each facet of his life while remaining incredibly humble and authentic. This intimate conversation showcases Emeril as a culinary legend and a man, incl...

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and Anthea Knapp Turner knows what beauties people love to behold! A master in curated collections and merchandising, Anthea spent years working in the jewelry industry on cruise ships before planting herself full-time in Northwest Florida and opening her charming lifestyle boutique, Anthea Le Jardin. Located in The Shops at The Hub on 30-A, the shop is a w...

One of the most exclusive and most beautiful communities along the Florida Gulf Coast, Alys Beach is much more than just a gorgeous photo backdrop. The resort town hosts world-class events, is home to unique architecture you won’t find anywhere else, and is rooted in family history along the gorgeous white-sand Gulf of Mexico. Lisa caught up with Alys Beach’s director of public relations, Diana...

Returning to the VIE Speaks “stage” is contemporary artist Nathan Alan Yoakum, whose colorful resin sculptures and mixed-media works beautify homes and spaces across Northwest Florida, Memphis, Atlanta, and far beyond. Also a former model and actor, Nathan delves into his life struggling with undiagnosed Asperger’s syndrome, finding himself through art and good friends in the industry, and the ...

Two more VIE cover girls join the lineup for VIE Speaks Season Two! Lisa was pleased to sit down over Zoom with the dynamic duo of Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams, the founders and cohosts of spiritual wellness podcasts Almost 30 and Morning Microdose. The pair talk about their journey from traditional careers to launching their own lifestyle brand and coaching others on how to live their be...

Mushroom experts Joey Bohler and Lexi Wroten join the VIE Speaks line-up to share the secret health benefits behind the nutrient-dense superfood. Joey found his passion for mushrooms at the Telluride Mushroom Festival in 2017. On the ride back to Florida, he researched as much as he could about mycology (the study of fungi). He then studied under Eric Myers of Myers Mushrooms in El Paso, Texas,...

Our March 2023 cover girl also joined Lisa virtually in the VIE podcast studio to talk about her new book, her life and wellness journey, and much more! We’re excited to celebrate Mallory Ervin in this issue as she recently released her second book, All In: A Vision for Living Fully Every Day. This journal-like volume is a follow-up to her 2022 debut inspirational book, Living Fully: Dare to St...

Dr. Bart Precourt and his wife, Kelli—a former Olympic field hockey player—own and operate Balance Health Studio and Prema Organic Cafe in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. The pair of houses turned studio and café has become a fixture along Scenic Highway 30-A and the local wellness industry. Dr. Precourt sat down to discuss their new endeavors and hopes for the future of the community. He has also s...

Supporting music and the arts is vital to the health of a community. Music and artistic director Demetrius Fuller of the revered Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra knows this is an intrinsically important way to foster community, raise money for good, and bring joy to the people. Demetrius and Lisa talk about the storied history of Sinfonia, past VIE partnerships such as the tenth-anniversary photo ...

The real estate market is still hot! Linda Miller has been a leading realtor in the Florida Panhandle’s coastal region for twenty-five years and is celebrating the third year of her own luxury brokerage, Linda Miller Real Estate. With prominent listings through the communities along Scenic Highway 30-A, Linda is in the know on trends, tips for buyers and sellers, and predictions for where the m...