05/02/2026
In April, our team visited over 150 businesses across Tennessee and Virginia. From distilleries and wineries to food trucks and restaurants, we saw a lot of incredible concepts. But after reflecting on those visits, three specific places stood out, each teaching a valuable lesson about business and leadership.
First, Tennessee Hills in Bristol, Tennessee. The lesson here is simple: be passionate about your product. I have toured dozens of production facilities, and this was by far one of the most impressive I have experienced. Everything they do, from their whiskey to their food, is high-touch and exceptionally well done. Their passion translates directly into the quality of what they create.
Second, T.B. Sutton General Store in Granville, Tennessee. My biggest takeaway from them is to preserve the old while adapting to the ages. This is a historic general store in a quaint town. They preserved the authenticity of the space, but they adapted to modern times by starting a live bluegrass session on Saturday nights. Today, it has become a venue known around the world.
Third, The Farmers Storehouse in Sparta, Tennessee. Their reminder is to care deeply about your customer. They mill high-quality grains and serve incredible food, but at the end of the day, they care compassionately about every individual who steps foot into their establishment. The way you treat people will ultimately make or break your business.
Three simple but profound reminders: be passionate about your product, preserve the old while adapting to the ages, and care about your customer.
What business has inspired you recently? Comment below.
