Welcome to the Pep Talk Podcast, where positivity meets practicality! Join me for empowering discussions, motivational interviews, and actionable insights that inspire growth and resilience. Whether you're seeking personal development, career advice, or a boost of confidence, our episodes are packed with the fuel you need to conquer challenges and unleash your full potential. Tune in for a weekly dose of motivation, self-improvement, and the tools to turn your aspirations into achievements. ...
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The Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce is proud to bring you PEP TALK, a weekly discussion about exciting things happening in and around Ellijay, Georgia. Host Asa Jones dives into what makes the people and businesses of Ellijay tick.
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What would an alternative to capitalism actually look like? A Participatory Economy (also known as Parecon) is a model for a new democratic, fair and green economic system based on democratic planning of the productive commons by self-managing workplaces and neighbourhoods. It describes how a modern economy of millions of people can be organised around solidarity and cooperation instead of competition and greed. In this podcast, co-creator and economist, Robin Hahnel, is joined by fellow adv ...
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As a former beauty queen, all I've ever wanted was world peace. (And harsher punishment for parole violators, let's be real.) So I've put a lot of thought into it this - what if we're the problem? What if the person looking at us in the mirror is the one that needs to change? What if we all took responsibility for ourselves and vowed to behave bett…
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I'm gonna need you guys to trust me on this episode and stay with me to the very end. It's tough to hear but Taylor Swift isn't your bestie. Beyonce isn't taking you to brunch. Jennifer Aniston is not coming over for dinner on Friday. And that's okay. It's time we stop letting ourselves feel peer pressure from people who are not our peers. If you'v…
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In this empowering episode of the Pep Talk Podcast, "How to Jump When You're Not Sure There's a Net" we explore the transformational power of acting, even if we're afraid.
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In this empowering episode of the Pep Talk Podcast, titled "Building Confidence Through Small Victories," we explore the transformational power of celebrating even the tiniest achievements. Join us as we discuss how recognizing small wins can lead to greater self-esteem and motivation. This episode is packed with insights to help you embrace every …
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When Life Hands You Lemons, Squeeze Them Back - How to stay positive when nothing is going your way.
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10:12In this episode of the Pep Talk Podcast, titled "When Life Hands You Lemons, Squeeze Them Back - How to Stay Positive When Nothing is Going Your Way," we delve into the art of resilience in the face of adversity. Join us as we share uplifting stories and actionable strategies for maintaining a positive mindset, even during life's toughest moments. …
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We've all been there - we want to say no but we don't. We feel bad or we fell guilty for putting our needs first. Let me tell you, we've left that feeling in 2024. If 2025 is going to be the year we want it to be - it's time to try something new - saying "No" and meaning it.
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We all have those well intentioned friends, family members or random internet strangers who try to tell us how our goals are too big or how we'll never achieve them. If you've ever struggled with how to put them in their place - this episode is for you.
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Turning Comparison Into Self Compassion
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10:45You've been beating yourself up for decades and where has that gotten you? Are you any closer to achieving that big goal or are you still beating yourself up every day because you haven't accomplished it...? If any of this sounds familiar, this is the episode for you.
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Start 2025 off right with the perfect mini pep talk to put you in the mood to conquer your 2025 goals.
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Planning for 2025? Do this one thing first.
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15:12If you want to set yourself up for success in 2025, this is the podcast episode for you. It's not glamorous or cool to talk about it but it's time we cut the nonsense and got out of our own way. If you're finally ready for 2025 to be "your year" start here and let's make it happen!
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In this episode, Caitlin Neal from the Gilmer Chamber joins host Asa Jones to discuss three exciting New Year’s events in the area. They dive into The Butcher and Bottle’s Best of Atlanta Comedy Show, Mountain Vineyard’s Sip, Savor, and Celebrate, and Ellijay’s first-ever speakeasy, “The Door.” Tune in for a preview of these fun and festive ways to…
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I got tired of people telling me they want to be more like me. No. You don’t. You want to be more like you, you just don’t know it yet. This podcast episode could change your life.
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Caitlin Neal and Nohemi Reynoso of the Gilmer Chamber join host Asa Jones to spread some holiday cheer and share all the exciting festivities still to come in the community! From tasty treats at the Charcuterie Chalet at Mountain View Artisanal to heartwarming church services at Autumn Ridge Community Church and East Ellijay Baptist Church, there’s…
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Stop Apologizing: Owning Your Space in The Room
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18:30Why do we keep saying ‘sorry’ for things that don’t need an apology? In this episode, we’re diving into the habit of over-apologizing and how it holds us back from owning our power. Learn how to replace unnecessary ‘sorrys’ with confidence, set boundaries without guilt, and take up space in every room you walk into. It’s time to stop shrinking your…
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In this festive PEP Talk episode, host Asa Jones sits down with Nohemi Reynoso of the Gilmer Chamber to chat about all the exciting holiday events happening in Ellijay this season! From twinkling lights to fun community gatherings, this episode highlights everything you need to know to make your holiday season merry and bright in Gilmer County. Tun…
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Setbacks happen—but they don’t define you. In this episode, we’re talking about how to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and rebuild your confidence after life throws you a curveball. Whether it’s a job rejection, a failed relationship, or a goal that didn’t pan out, this episode is your roadmap to turning things around. With practical tips, per…
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This week, Caitlin Neal and Nohemi Reynoso of the Gilmer Chamber are getting into the holiday spirit as they dive into the best local Christmas celebrations happening in the community! From festive traditions to exciting events, they share all the details on what’s coming up. Tune in to hear about The Tabor House Museum’s Turn of the Century Christ…
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Caught in the comparison trap? You’re not alone. We all know that sinking feeling when someone else’s success feels like it’s stealing our shine. In this episode, we’re diving deep into why we compare ourselves to others, especially on social media, and how to stop letting jealousy and self-doubt get the best of us. From reframing your mindset to p…
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The One Where Everyone Got Called 'Stupid'
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13:16Sharon Stone, Alec Baldwin, and other celebs might think calling people ‘ignorant’ or 'uneducated' is the way to win an argument—but spoiler alert: it’s not. In this episode, we’re diving into why name-calling shuts down conversations instead of opening minds. Whether you’re gearing up for a Thanksgiving dinner debate or just trying to keep the pea…
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The holiday season is officially here in Gilmer County! This week, host Asa Jones is joined by Caitlin Neal and Nohemi Reynoso with the Gilmer Chamber to give you the inside scoop on upcoming festivities! From dazzling light displays to heartwarming performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy, including: Holiday Lights of Ellijay – A walk…
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The One Where We Break Up
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16:00It’s official: we’re breaking up with burnout. We’ve been dragging through this exhausting, one-sided relationship for too long, and it’s time to take back our energy and peace of mind. In this episode, we’re spilling the tea on how to recognize burnout, uncover the root causes, and start setting boundaries that actually stick. Think of it as the b…
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This week, host Asa Jones is joined by Caitlin Neal and Nohemi Reynoso from the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce for a deep dive into the some of the best local spots to shop for your Thanksgiving feast. From sourcing the finest meats and fresh produce to discovering the perfect desserts and must-have ingredients, they share expert tips on where t…
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Is it really self care or is it an excuse?
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10:52In this episode, we’re getting real about the difference between truly restorative self-care and habits that might actually be holding you back. We’ll dive into how to spot the difference, why “treating yourself” sometimes isn’t the answer, and practical ways to build habits that genuinely recharge you—so you can feel more balanced, focused, and re…
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Host Asa Jones chats with Caitlin Neal and Nohemi Reynoso from the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce about all the festive fun coming to Ellijay this holiday season! Tune in to learn about Light Up Ellijay, Holiday Lights of Ellijay, Downtown Light Nights, and the Christmas Market—four can't-miss events that will make this a magical holiday in the …
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Navigating Change When The World Feels Scary
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13:56Feeling overwhelmed by change? You're not alone. With the election behind us and the world still feeling unpredictable, it's easy to feel paralyzed by fear and uncertainty. In this episode, we dive deep into how to keep moving forward, even when the world feels like it's in chaos. From managing anxiety about the future to finding small ways to crea…
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Host Asa Jones welcomes Ellijay Bacon Fest organizers Abby Prieto and Irene Witt. Ellijay Bacon Fest was created gather the community for the love of bacon and local restaurateurs while helping raise awareness and money for local charities and organizations. In 2023 the festival raised over $10,000 for local charities and collected 1,447 pounds of …
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PEP Talk: Farm Fun with Ellijay Mushrooms
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10:04Host Asa Jones welcomes Howard Berk, Briana Nunez, and Elizabeth Starr of family-owned sustainable mushroom farm Ellijay Mushrooms to the studio to talk all the fall things—from the farm store to mushroom coffee to art, food, and more. Plus, check out the farm’s scavenger hunt and U-Pick flowers this season as well! Social Media Facebook Instagram…
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This week, Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis and Nohemi Reynoso from the Gilmer County Chamber join host Asa Jones to discuss the core details of the 2024 Georgia Apple Festival. Experience this annual festival happening two weekends in October—October 12-13 and October 19-20—kicking off with a parade on Saturday, October 12, starting …
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PEP Talk: Fall Fun With Cress Creeks Farm
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10:19This week, Mindy and Lee Forbes from Cress Creeks Sheep Farm and Event Center join host Asa Jones to discuss upcoming fall fun on the farm! The Forbeses also divulge the many Cress Creeks specialties, including locally-raised, farm-fresh goodies and the farm’s Airbnb. https://cresscreeksfarm.com/ https://www.facebook.com/CressCreeksFarm/ https://ww…
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School is back in session in Gilmer County! This means the mornings are getting busy for parents, kids, and educators. Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis joins host Asa Jones to talk about some of the best places for grab-and-go breakfasts. Discover new businesses and iconic restaurants in this episode. Chef In A Box URL Chef In A Box F…
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PEP Talk: Discover the Cartecay River Experience
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11:34Float through the details of the Cartecay River Experience in this week's episode with host Asa Jones and tubing experts Tripp and Micalah Jansen. Listen now to learn more about the well-loved Ellijay escapade and its two floating experiences: the Adventure River Experience and the Lazy River Experience. Social Media Facebook Instagram…
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Don't go chasing waterfalls just yet, as this week, host Asa Jones welcomes Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis back into the studio to talk all about waterfalls, rivers, and lakes in and around Gilmer County, including Amicalola Falls, Cartecay River Experience, and Carters Lake. Interested in checking out these waterways yourself? List…
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PEP Talk: The Great Outdoors
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11:19This week, host Asa Jones welcomes Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis back to the studio to discuss Ellijay’s family hiking trails, including Bear Creek Trail, Carters Lake, Fort Mountain State Park, and The River Loop on the Cartecay River. Listen now and get ready to explore the great outdoors. Gilmer Chamber Gilmer Chamber Facebook…
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PEP Talk: Summer Harvest
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10:27This week, host Asa Jones welcomes Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis back to the studio. Listen now to learn about Gilmer County’s summer harvest at Aaron Family Orchards, Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, and Ellijay Mushrooms, all where you can pick flowers, blueberries, and more. Aarons Family Orchards: “Come hang out with us when you’re…
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Fourth of July is coming up! Host Asa Jones welcomes Caitlin Neal from the Gilmer County Chamber and Pam Burns from Gilmer Arts Playhouse to discuss the upcoming Fourth of July festival and parade. Applications to participate in the parade will be open until July 1 at 5:00 p.m. Participants can pick up a physical application at the Gilmer Arts Gall…
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Host Asa Jones welcomes Caitlin Neal and Nohemi Reynoso from the Gilmer County Chamber to discuss the ongoing Ellijay Treats Trail. The Treats Trail is Ellijay's way to find the best orchards, bakeries, and other sweet food in town. This episode will delve into the newly introduced mobile pass along with what it takes to put together a trail, desti…
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This week’s PEP Talk episode features Bobby McNeill, owner of Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery in Talking Rock. Bobby and host Asa Jones chat about the Ellijay Songwriters Festival as it continues through Sunday, June 2, and how Chateau Meichtry will keep the music going throughout the summer! The chateau’s annual summer concert series w…
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PEP Talk: Ellijay Songwriters Festival: Crystal Henson
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10:15PEP Talk host Asa Jones welcomes singer-songwriter Crystal Henson to the studio to chat about the Ellijay Songwriters Festival, happening now through June 2 at venues throughout Gilmer County. A native of nearby Woodstock, Crystal performs an eclectic blend of tunes from the 80s and 90s along with original acoustic songs. See her perform live at Ca…
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PEP Talk: Summer Kick-Off
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10:19Gilmer's got it going on! Dive into three major upcoming events in this week’s episode with Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis, Gilmer Chamber President and CEO Jennifer Grimmer, and host Asa Jones. The Ellijay Mushrooms Fungi 5K is this Saturday morning, May 18, followed by the Ellijay Songwriters Festival kicking off May 20 and contin…
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PEP Talk: Ellijay Songwriters Fest Press Conference
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12:59This special episode of the Pick Ellijay Podcast is a part of the Ellijay Songwriters Fest Press Conference. Ray Green of Ray Dog Productions gives details about the festival this year including performance locations, new additions, and opening night at the Gilmer Arts Playhouse. Tickets for the opening night at the Playhouse are Click here to secu…
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Stop, shop, and browse at the Ellijay Farmers and Artisans Market, opening this weekend! Host Asa Jones welcomes Downtown Welcome Center Catherine Weis back to the studio to discuss the seasonal market—open every Saturday, May through September, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.—and what to expect, including fresh foods, local goods, live music, and more.…
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This week’s PEP Talk episode takes a dive into the new Gilmer Visitors Guide with Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis, Gilmer Chamber Marketing Director Caitlin Neal, and host Asa Jones. The Gilmer Visitors Guide covers everything from Ellijay's apple business to mountainside getaways to local favorites. Gilmer's got it goin' on! Gilmer …
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This week's episode includes a discussion between Caitlin Neal, Catherine Weis, and host Asa Jones about the upcoming Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival, happening April 26-28 at the Gilmer County Civic Center. The festival will feature plenty of vendors and special classes, open to knitters of all skill levels. Give them a follow on Georgia Mou…
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This week's episode of PEP Talk dives deeper into Gilmer County Restaurant Week, happening May 13 through 18. Catherine Weis, Caitlin Neal, and host Asa Jones discuss Restaurant Week voting, which is now open on the Gilmer Chamber website. Categories include Best Burger, Best Date Night, Best Breakfast, and more!…
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This week, host Asa Jones welcomes Robert Ferguson, president and CEO of the Georgia Mountain Trails Partnership, to the studio. Get the scoop on the 2024 Georgia Mountain Trail Fest, coming soon on Saturday, April 20. From hikers, mountain bikers, kayakers, and trail runners to equestrians, campers, Jeep and RV enthusiasts — everyone is welcome! T…
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PEP Talk: Ellijay Restaurant Week
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11:01Host Asa Jones welcomes back Gilmer Chamber President Jennifer Grimmer and Downtown Welcome Center Manager Catherine Weis to discuss the upcoming Ellijay Restaurant Week, a celebration of local dining happening from May 13-18. Plus, the Gilmer Chamber is dishing out People's Choice Awards for local businesses. Tune in for all things Ellijay restaur…
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PEP Talk: The Future of Downtown Ellijay
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13:25In this episode Gilmer Chamber President & CEO Jennifer Grimmer and host Asa Jones welcome Catherine Weis, the new Downtown Welcome Center Manager. Catherine discusses some new ideas for the welcome center and what the year might hold. Afterwards Jennifer reviews exciting accomplishments for Pick Ellijay from 2023 and upcoming developments for 2024…
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Asa and Ron welcome Linda Lancaster, representing Friends of Harrison Park, to discuss the upcoming Sasquatch Strut on April 27 and to talk about the Friends of Harrison Park's progress and accomplishments. The goal of the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit is to provide a place for friends and families to gather without spending too much money. Through upcoming…
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PEP Talk: Cartecay Bike Shop Brewery
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12:10This week, the PEP Talk podcast crew welcomes Dondi Fontenot, co-owner of Cartecay Bike Shop Brewery on North Main Street in Ellijay. Asa, Ron, and Dondi discuss the newest addition to the shop: the brew room, serving small-batch craft beers, including ales, IPAs, pilsners, wheats, and seltzers made in-house. With over 45 years of experience in the…
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PEP Talk: North Georgia Vineyard Tours
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12:11This week hosts Asa and Ron welcome Benjamin Grimmer of Ellijay Excursions, Patrick Hagler of A Grape View Tours, and Noble Zuschlag of North Georgia Wine Trips to discuss the ins and outs of guided vineyard touring and what you can expect when booking one of these convenient touring services in the beautiful wine country of Ellijay and North Georg…
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