Shows
The Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Joan HerlongThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the owner and CEO of Herlong Sotheby's International Realty herself, Joan Herlong! Joan invited Griffin out to walk the grounds of one of her beautiful real estate listings while she shares what brought her to the Upstate, building her real estate business, and watch Greenville "grow up" alongside her own family.
2025-07-2339 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Alex StalveyThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, we are talking all things safety, what to do in the case of a collision on the trail, and how to best prevent them! Griffin is joined by Alex Stalvey, a partner at a GVL lawfirm with experience of personal injury cases involving accidents on the trail. We hope you never need this advice but definitely want you to hear it!
2025-07-0236 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Scout MechanicalThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin chats with Bishop Scott, CEO of Scout Mechanical, a new mechanical, electrical, plumbing company formed from succesful, longtime, local trades businesses here in the Upstate.This week's sponsor is WYLDSTAY Greenvile at Serenity Lake Farm: Book your stay with 15% off with code TRAIL. https://www.wyldstaygreenvillesc.com/Join our newsletter: https://theupstatetrailtalks.com/
2025-06-2542 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Greenville Sports FoundationThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin joins Jack Bacot to hear all about his successful career creating and building magazines for wide range of clients before starting on this new adventure - Greenville Sports Foundation, an organization hoping to create and manage annual sporting events in the Upstate that drives economic development.This week's sponsor is WYLDSTAY Greenvile at Serenity Lake Farm: Book your stay with 15% off with code TRAIL. https://www.wyldstaygreenvillesc.com/Join our newsletter: https://theupstatetrailtalks.com/
2025-06-1836 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Mayor Knox WhiteThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, we celebrate Episode 100 with Mayor of the City of Greenville, Knox White! Griffin and Mayor White walk and talk their way through his GVL roots, what inspired him to run for local office, and the story behind projects like Unity Park and the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
2025-06-1142 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Poe Mill MusicThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin strolls through Unity Park with Brice Smith, co-founder of Poe Mill Music - a new space for veteran and emerging musicians alike with recording studios, practice rooms, and a live music venue. Brice shares his vision for what Poe Mill Music can be for young musicians in the area and how a Nashville designer helped create this unique space.
2025-05-2128 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Marion CrawfordThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin strolls through downtown with Marion Crawford, CEO of her own full service marketing firm, Crawford. Marion shares her story of growing up here, her path to starting her own business, and her passion for making the Upstate an amazing place to be!
2025-05-1438 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Southern TideThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin chats with Carey Ann Campbell, CEO of Southern Tide in their new HQ located just steps away from the Swamp Rabbit Trail! Carey Ann shares her story of working in the retail/apparel industry and why coming to Southern Tide and The Upstate checked all her boxes.
2025-05-0723 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Gail DePriestThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin learns a wonderful lesson from Gail DePriest, professor at Clemson's MBA program and entrepreneur/executive coach! Gail talks about using her skill set to help her students see the creativity in their work and help guide them on the next chapter of their career.
2025-04-3023 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Incora HealthThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Theresa Gevaert, co-founder of Incora Health, a health technology company focused on develeoping wearbables specifically for women! Theresa shares what brought her here to the Upstate, how the idea of Incora Health's earrings started, and what they hope to accomplish in the field of women's health.Check out their website - https://incorahealth.com/Ways to get involved: Join the Incora Community.Anyone interested in early access to the Incora earrings can sign up at IncoraHealth.com. A simple email address unlocks behind‑the‑...
2025-04-2333 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: TOWN MagazineThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin attempts a tall task of interviewing a journalist! Executive Editor for TOWN Magazine, Leigh Savage, hits the trail with us to discuss her time with the magazine covering the Upstate's favorite businesses from restaurants, to the arts, to travel, and fashion.Sign up for our newsletter by visiting theupstatetrailtalks.com and scroll to the bottom to subscribe!This week's sponsor is Wimp Decaf Coffee Company! Listeners get 10% their first order with promocode TRAILTALKS at wimpdecaf.com. Check it out!
2025-04-1625 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: John JeterThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by local writer, owner of a legendary music venue, and most recently, playwright of the new musical comedy, "Waiting For You," John Jeter! Tune in to hear more about his time owning The Handlebar and more about the new musical debuting this upcoming weekend April 11th-13th at the Chapman Cultural Center in Spartanburg!This week's sponsor is Wimp Decaf Coffee Company! Listeners get 10% their first order with promocode TRAILTALKS at wimpdecaf.com. Check it out!
2025-04-0939 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Bonnie PapajohnThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Bonnie Papajohn, a certified health and nutrition coach who helps clients work towards and overall healthy lifestyle. Bonnie shares about launching her new business and what her time in the Upstate has been like over the years.This week's sponsor is Wimp Decaf Coffee Company! Listeners get 10% their first order with promocode TRAILTALKS at wimpdecaf.com. Check it out!
2025-04-0226 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Greenville Uptempo SportsThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin hits the trail with the owners of Greenville's newest running apparel comany - Greenville Uptempo Sports aka "GUTS" - Nick and Kristine Dibos! The husband and wife duo share their story of how they moved to the Upstate all the way from Oregon, becoming so passionate about this community so quickly, they started this business to not only celebrate it, but to give back as well.This week's sponsor is Wimp Decaf Coffee Company! Listeners get 10% their first order with promocode TRAILTALKS at wimpdecaf.com. Check it out!
2025-03-2639 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: City Council Candidate Tina BelgeThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin walks and talks with City Council Candidate Tina Belge has she launches her campaign for the election this November! Tina shares her story about falling in love with the Upstate visiting as a kid to now her involvement and passion for local government. Take a listen to hear what she hopes to accomplish if elected!
2025-03-1930 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Joshua TroutThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin hits the trail with the CEO of Encompass Health, local author, (and fellow Pittsburgher) Joshua Trout! Joshua's personal story, as well as his experience with Emcompass Health, shaped his unique outlook on what leadership should look like, and inspired his recently published book, "Transformative Leadership."
2025-03-1228 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Hey AmyThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by another Greenville native and maker of high quality, handmade bags, Amy Burka, owner of Hey Amy! She shares her story of multiple career changes that ended up with her starting her own business sewing fashionable, durable bags for all the Upstate to enjoy.
2025-03-0535 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Amy ThomasThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Amy Thomas, real estate agent and Greenville native! Amy shares her love for her hometown and how she loves making the Upstate other people's new hometown too!
2025-02-2632 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Oasis Animal HospitalThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Dr. Atticus Mabry, founder and director of Oasis Animal Hospital. Atticus grew up right here in Greenville, attended Clemson University and then later Univeristy of Georgia for veterinary school, eventually leading him to start his own practice here back in the Upstate - where the combination of being a family vet practice with an emergency component really set Oasis apart.
2025-02-1942 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Max Stewart, CEO of Greenville Area Development CorporationThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Max Stewart, who is the CEO of the Greenville Area Development Corporation. Max shares what he and GADC look for when bringing in new businesses and helping current ones expand in Greenville County in hopes they are a good fit and bring value to our community.
2025-02-1225 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: ScoundrelThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin hits the trail with Greenville native and owner of Scoundrel, Chef Joe Cash! Chef Joe recounts his early days in the food industry here in the Upstate before taking on some of the emost acclaimed restaurants in NYC and abroad until he decided it was time to come home to make something his own.
2025-01-2930 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Cancer Survivors Park AllianceThis week on The Upstate Trail Talk, Griffin gets a tour from Executive Director, Kay Roper, and boardmember, Michael McCullough, of Cancer Survivors Park. The two share the history of the park and why its a place of hope and healing to some many of those here in the Upstate.
2025-01-2251 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: FUELThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by CEO and Head of Creative at FUEL branding agency, Mary Church Cornette. Mary shares what her experience was like sharpening her skills in the branding industry during her time in LA and New York City before bringing her talents here to the Upstate. FUEL has helped build up some of the most well known brands here in the Upstate!
2025-01-1533 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Wimp Decaf Coffee Co.This week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is introduced to what the decaf life is like by Matthew Smith, owner of Wimp Decaf Coffee Co. Matthew shares why he has embarked on this journey to bring high quality decaf coffee to the world!
2025-01-0847 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Nate LipscombThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets the chance to chat with the former Executive VP of the Greenville Drive! Nate Lipscomb shares his story about bringing the team here to Greenville along with some of his favorite memories over the year. Go Drive!
2024-11-2736 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: BikeWalkGVL + Upstate Greenways and Trail AllianceThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Mary McGowan (BikeWalkGVL) and Sam Davis (Upstat Greenways and Trails Alliance) to talk about the amazing clean up effort of the Swamp Rabbit Trail after Hurricane Helene. Plus some insight on some other trail projects!
2024-11-2027 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Blair Knobel & VSSL MagazineThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by founder of Vessel Magazine, Blair Knobel. As a native to the Upstate, Blair shares her unique experience of growing up here, moving to New York to work on her publishing craft, only to answer her calling to come back home. Blair worked for a decade as editor in chief for TOWN Magazine before starting her new venture of VSSL.
2024-11-1355 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Avryn Co.This week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin hits the trail with Kate Gaffney, founder of Avryn Co. Kate shares her story of how making a leather wristlet out of necessity turned into launching her own business that hand crafts these products right here in Greenville!Sponsor: WYLDSTAY Greenville. https://www.wyldstaygreenvillesc.com/Enter promo code TRAILTALKS for 15% your stay!
2024-11-0631 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Jianna Pt. 2This week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the amazing duo behind Jianna - Chef Michael Kramer and GM Andrea Royko. New to the show, Andrea shares a bit about her story and then the pair dive into the making of the new Jianna Cookbook! Available now!Jianna Cookbook: https://c7b93c-86.myshopify.com/products/jianna-cookbookSponsor: WYLDSTAY Greenville. https://www.wyldstaygreenvillesc.com/Enter promo code TRAILTALKS for 15% your stay!
2024-10-3031 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Abby Moore KeithThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by local writer, Abby Moore Keith! Abby shares what led her to be a writer as well as what led her to the Upstate.
2024-10-2324 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: GVL County Soil and Water Conservation DistrictThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by GVL County's Stormwater Programs Coordinator and GVL native, Abbi Greer! Abbi shares a bit about her time growing up here as well as what we can do as residents to help conserve The Upstate's wonderful natural resources!DISCLAIMER: This interview was recorded prior Hurricane Helene - otherwise we would've had a lot more questions for our expert!
2024-10-1632 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Zach SuggsThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by local photographer whose work captures a unique side of the Greenville community - Zach Suggs! Zach's recent work focused on capturing the history and personalities that make up the Greenville skateboarding community at the Poe Mill Skatepark. He's also been a representative of that community working with the city on the new public skatepark that was just approved recently.
2024-09-2546 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Loaves and FishesThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Daneen Schatzle with Loaves and Fishes, a food rescue organization that aims to reduce hunger and food waste here in Greenville County! Join us to hear all about this incredible non-profit and how you can get involved!
2024-09-1828 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Sully's SteamersThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Sully - as in Steamers! Robert Sullivan shares about his journey to the Upstate and starting his delicious sandwich shop which can now be found in towns throughout the Southeast!
2024-09-0444 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Andrea BeamThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Greenville native and local author, Andrea Beam! Andrea discusses her new book, "Tyler Goes to School" as well as what it was like growing up here in the Upstate!
2024-08-2817 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Victory Garden StudioThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the creative husband and wife duo that make up Victory Garden Studio: Jesse and Carissa Bowser! They share what its like working on designs, illustrations, and murals as a team as well as talk about their new children's book they published recently: Adventure Through the Alphabet.
2024-08-2138 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Sum Bar + Bridge City CoffeeThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, we have a very exciting double interview for you - Griffin hits the trail with Khailing Neoh, owner of Sum Bar, and Greg Ward, owner of Bridge City Coffee. We get to hear each of their stories of starting their businesses here in Greenville and how they strive for much, much more than simply running a restaurant and coffee shop, and how they hope to have an impact here in the Upstate.
2024-08-1456 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: The StationThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is back up in Travelers Rest to hear all about the trailside boutique hotel, The Station, from founder Brice Bay! Brice shares his vision for the hotels future on the trail and gives a little insight into what he was up to before founding The Station.
2024-08-0723 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: M. Judson BooksellersThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin chats with the owner of one of Greenville's landmark businesses: June Wilcox, owner of M. Judson Booksellers. She talks about what is what like growing up here in the Upstate and how everyone's favorite bookstore came to be.
2024-07-2426 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: DaydrinkersThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, we are walking and talking with a cup of coffee! Griffin hits the trail with Daydrinkers co-owner, Katie Capelli, to hear how a spur of the moment suggestion of "Let's start a coffee shop!" to her best friend, turned into one of Greenville's favorite coffee spots in a matter of months!
2024-07-1727 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Hollowed Earth PotteryThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets a lesson in pottery from Hollowed Earth co-owner, Sarah Batory. Sarah talks about what it's like running a business with her husband, the different pottery tecchniques, and what they hope learning this craft can mean to people, even beginners!
2024-07-1023 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Holistic CitiesThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin ia joined by April Economides, founder of Holistic Cities. April comes to the Upstate bringing decades of experience transforming neighborhoods into those that promote health and wellness through multi modal transportation and green urban design!
2024-07-0343 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: N Patel CommunicationsThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Nisha Patel, founder of N Patel Communications. Nisha talks about her past in journalism and how that helped her transition to the world of marketing and public relations.
2024-06-2628 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Another Round GreenvilleThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin heads to Gower Park for "another round" of disc golf with Cory Wickline, owner of Another Round Greenville. The pair tee off by talking about the early success of the new franchise and the growth of the sport here in the Upstate.
2024-06-1948 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Chef Michael SibertThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by SC Food Ambassador and Head Chef of White Wine and Butter, Michael Sibert! Chef talks about his love for cooking at a young age, his experience filming on a Food Network show, and what being an SC Food Ambassdor means to him.
2024-06-1235 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: PKL ParkThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets some insight from the gentlemen bringing America's fastest growing sport to one of America's fastest growing cities. Not sure if either is true, but it sure feels like it! Griffin gets the chance to walk the site of the new PKL Park Greenville where folks will eventually be able to enjoy pickleball, delicious food, live music and more!
2024-06-0520 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: YoProKnowThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Kamber Parker Bowden, founder of YoProKnow! Kamber shares how YoProKnow started originally as a blog trying to connect with young professionals in the business world and has now grown it into a consulting company that helps other businesses hire and retain young professionals.
2024-05-2230 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Lacey DoesThis week on The Upstate Trail talks, Griffin is joined by Lacey Hennessey, or as you might know her @lacey_does! Her impressive murals can be found all over the Upstate and beyond and she shares her story of becoming a muralist began.
2024-05-1524 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Lib Ramos (Indie Craft Parade + Good Printed Things)This week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by a force in the Upstate's creative community - Lib Ramos! Lib is one of the founders of Indie Craft Parade as well as Good Printed Things, a small publishing company here in the Upstate. They chat about the makers market as well as some of the projects Good Printed Things has in the works.
2024-05-0837 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: GVL Liberty Head Coach Julie CarlsonThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by GVL Liberty women's soccer team head coach, Julie Carlson right before they "kick off" their season this summer! Julie shares her journey of coming to the Upstate to be involved with a number of programs as well as how she hopes to grow the community of womens sports here in Greenville.
2024-05-0136 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Glenis RedmondThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets to hit the trail with the City of Greenville's first poet laureate, Glenis Redmond. Glenis has been a pioneer in the Upstate's poetry and creative community for years and hasn't slowed down yet with the debut of her new book "The Song of Everything."
2024-04-2442 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Amend MarketThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Kendall Daly, owner of Amend Market in the West Village of Greenville. Kendall's passion for sustainability has inspired her to make it easier for individuals to make these decisions by bringing Greenville's first sustainable refill shop to life.
2024-04-1742 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Defender Creative + Homespun MerchThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin celebrates the podcast's first birthday by joining Brando Zellars on HIS birthday! Brando is an illustrative designer with a passion for branding the Upstate. We get to hear his story about finding his way back home to the Upstate in hopes to help Greenville find it's identity with his work.
2024-04-1040 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Dapper Ink's Jen MoreauThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is making T-Shirts! Well, kind of. Griffin is joined by Jen Moreau, co-owner of Dapper Ink and co-founder of the Landmark project, and she gives Griffin the rundown on how she and her husband's company takes creative designs from an idea all the way to a screenprinted shirt.
2024-04-0340 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Junior League of GreenvilleThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin attempts his first TRIPLE interview with three members from the Junior League of Greenville! Tune in hear hear more about this incredible organization of women leaders and their impact on the Greenville community.
2024-03-2730 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Lauren NewtonThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Greenville native, photographer, nurse, and friend, Lauren Newton! Tune in to hear her insight on pursuing a passion of hers in photography all while maintaining her career in nursing at Greenville Memorial Hospital!
2024-03-2025 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: City of Greenville Parks, Recreation, and TourismThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the city's Tourism Administrator, Anna Catherine Miller, to talk about all of Greenville's amazing events coming up this spring in summer! From the concert series, to Jazz Fest, to the Farmer's Market, there's always so much to look forward to. Pull out your calendars!
2024-03-1333 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: VotiveThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Griffin. WHAT? Griffin Duffey that is, owner of Votive, a new elevated non-alcoholic beverage business focusing in teas, kombuchas, and other specialty drinks.
2024-03-0641 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Mountain GoatThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Chrissy and Ryan McCrary: business owners and podcast co-hosts together! The couple shares their story of starting their coffee shop, Mountain Goat, and how running a small business as a couple inspired them to start a podcast, Business Partner Partners, to talk about the rewards and challenges that come with it.
2024-02-2837 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Dr. Bernarducci and Clemson ChoirsThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin heads back to Clemson University to meet up with with former choir director, Dr. Anthony Bernarducci. Dr. B shares about how he made his way to Clemson and all the exciting things happening with Clemson Choirs.
2024-02-2131 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Carlton OwenThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Carlton Owen, one of the pioneers in the development of the Swamp Rabbit Trail! Tune in to hear this episode about the trail while we walk on the trail.
2024-02-1441 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: ReCraftThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the founder and executive director of ReCraft, SC's first creative reuse center: Grant Cothran! Grant shares his story of pursuing this idea of a creative reuse center during his time at Clemson MBA and making it a reality right here in the Upstate.
2024-02-0747 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: GVL Triumph Head Coach Rick WrightThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin heads up to Furman University with newly named head coach of Greenville Triumph SC, Rick Wright! Rick shares his very funny story about joining the Triumph's staff in 2019 and what he's seen in the soccer community in the Upstate through the years.
2024-01-2440 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Your Host, Griffin DonleyThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by his lovely wife, Elizabeth, as she takes the mic to interview Griffin for a change! Tune in to hear about Griffin and what his life's like off the trail.
2024-01-1724 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Carmella's Cafe and Dessert BarHappy New Year! It's officially 2024 and we are back! This week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin kicks off the year with Brian Solari, owner of Carmella's Cafe, new to the Upstate! Brian shares where his passion for cooking and baking began and how he hopes to bring the European café idea to downtown Greenville.
2024-01-1024 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: The Whiskey Hat CoThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Cam Bolton, owner of The Whiskey Hat Co. Cam shares his passion for shaping custom fur-felt hats and why he chose to bring his unique craft to the Upstate!
2023-12-0633 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Rebel Without a Car (Mary McGowan)This week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the "Rebel Without a Car" Mary McGowan. Mary discusses what it's been like giving up her car in order to navigate her commute, and life, by bike! She's also the Board Chair of BikeWalkGVL and discusses projects they've been working on.
2023-11-2925 minThe Upstate Trail TalksSpecial Edition Episode: A Greenville History Tour with Michelle ShainOn this special edition of The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets a little walking history tour of Greenville's parks! Back during Michelle Shain's interview, she gives a little background on some iconic places in downtown that deserve to be highlighted in their own episode - check it out!
2023-11-2215 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: The Mailroom Barber CoThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Mailroom Barber Company's owner, Robert Watkins. Together they talk about Robert's passion for precision haircutting, the barbering experience at the Mailroom, and the importance of education and technique in this industry!
2023-11-1529 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: GVLtodayThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin goes behind the scene's with Greenville's favorite newletter: GVLtoday. Editor Stephanie Freeman shares her story of growing up here in the Upstate and what it's like being a part of writing and representing GVLtoday!
2023-11-0829 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Mayoral Candidate Michelle ShainThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin takes a stroll through downtown with Michelle Shain in the final week of her campaign for Mayor. They talk a lot about Michelle's experience and impact in Greenville over the years and what she hopes for in the future if elected.
2023-11-0144 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: City Manager, Shannon LavrinThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Greenville's City Manager, Shannon Lavrin. Shannon talks about growing up around the corner in Asheville, what she learned while working in city government in Tennessee, and how she quickly ascended to be Greenville's first female city manager!
2023-10-2528 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: City Councilwoman Dorothy DoweOn this week of The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin chats with City Councilwoman Dorothy Dowe in the final weeks of her re-election campaign! She shares about finding her way to Greenville, several career transitions, and what led her to join city council.
2023-10-1858 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: City Council Candidate Randall FowlerThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets on a new kind of trail - the campaign trail! With the city council election coming up, Griffin got the chance to chat with candidate Randall Fowler about what he loves about Greenville and why he wants to be a part of city government.
2023-10-1129 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Rebel RabbitThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by one of the co-owners of Rebel Rabbit, Billy Goldsmith. Billy talks about the idea of Rebel Rabbit seltzers as an alternative to alcohol, the science behind their Delta-9 infused beverages, and what the company's hope for the future is as they strive to grow with Greenville's manufacturing industry.
2023-10-0422 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Jay BakerOn this episode of The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets the day started at Unity Park with Jay Baker, a long time Greenville resident, photographer, athlete, and entertainer. Listen in to see how Jay combines his love of photography with his love of running here in the Upstate!
2023-09-2718 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Grant CoxThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin hits the trail with Grant Cox - former Clemson Baseball player, motivational speaker, and Greenville native. Grant shares his powerful story about overcoming struggles and how that has impacted him today.
2023-09-2028 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Kite Hill BrewingThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin walks and talks with Bryon Leggett, one of the owner's of Clemson's first brewery - Kite Hill Brewing. Bryon shares how he met his business partner Bobby while they were students and how years later they decided to head back to Tiger Town to open up a brewery.
2023-09-0620 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Flying Rabbit AdventuresThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin flies high on the Flying Rabbit Adventures ropes course with owner Jonathan Simmons to talk about the aerial park, conservation, and keeping the "Green" in Greenville!
2023-08-3027 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Parker GroupThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks: Griffin is joined by Drew Parker, founder of the Parker Group, whose real estate business and development work on projects throughout the city have made it "a great place to live, work, and play!"
2023-08-2323 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Reagan DavisThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Reagan Davis to learn all about her nutrition and training business based here in the Upstate. Reagn talks about achieving and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle as well as discusses her experience competing in Hyrox races!
2023-08-1628 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Brooks DixonThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Greenville native and local musician, Brooks Dixon, to discuss his new album "Rhododendron Highway." Brooks also shares what it was like growing up in Greenville and how that inspires his songwriting.
2023-08-0940 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Scout's DoughnutsThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin chats with JP and Ryland Rainsford, owner's of the Greenville favorite - Scout's Donuts! Listen as JP and Ryland share what brought them to Greenville, how they decided to build a business as a family, and of course, how they make their favorite donut flavors. You won't want to miss this sweet episode!
2023-08-0254 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Daylight BurritoThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks: Griffin meets up with Richie Mata'afa, owner of Daylight Burrito, on the Trail. Richie shares how cooking was his way of connecting with his family, and how he wants to continue creating a sense of community to Greenville - in the form of a San Diego style burrito!
2023-07-2655 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Jianna Head Chef/Owner Michael KramerThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the owner and head chef of one downtown Greenville's favorites: Jianna. Michael talks about his past experiences learning from some of the best chefs around, what brought him here to Greenville, and what inspires him now!
2023-07-1929 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Anna Katherine CreativeThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is back on the Greenline Extension with Anna Bullock - a Greenville native, brand strategist, and photographer - to hear about how she uses her talents to help make people's creative vision happen.
2023-07-1237 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Keowee Brewing CompanyThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin gets to chat with the owners of Oconee County's first brewery: Keowee Brewing Company. Take a listen to hear Alex and Allison's story of how they got started brewing some of the finest beer in Seneca.
2023-07-0535 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Steve LeitchThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Steve Leitch, a local Ultra Distance athlete who has recently completed the first leg of the Oceans Seven challenge. Steve explains that he didn't accomplish this impressive feat for himself but to raise money and support for a local Greenville ministry. Tune in to hear more!
2023-06-2839 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Liability Brewing CompanyThis week on the Upstate Trail Talks: Griffin gets a lesson in beer brewing! Today we are joined by Kathy Horner and Liability Brewing Company to hear all about how they grew from home brewing to producing an award winning beer here in the Upstate!
2023-06-2131 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: City Councilman Wil BrasingtonThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Greenville City Councilman, Wil Brasington, who tells his story about wanting to serve others in his community. Starting as Clemson student body president to representing his neighborhood association and eventually getting involved with Greenville city government. Wil also discusses his role as the Executive Director of the Clemson Alumni Association.
2023-06-1445 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Clare's CreameryThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin heads back to Unity Park to get the inside "scoop" on Clare's Creamery with owner, Caitlin Hayes. Caitlin shares all about her passion for ice cream and how it all led to opening one of Greenville's favorite ice cream shops. Take a listen - then go get a scoop!
2023-06-0728 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Kathleen Reynolds InteriorsThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by Kathleen Reynolds at Unity Park who shares all about her love of interior design and her favorite things about living in Greenville!
2023-05-3125 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: The Boyds Pt. 2 (Salt and Paper Press)This week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin wraps up the second half of the Boyds' interview. Elyssa dives into her craft of letterpress printing and why she thought Greenville was the perfect place to launch her business, Salt and Paper Press. Take a listen to hear the rest of their story and what they love about Greenville!
2023-05-2422 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: The Boyds Pt. 1 (Pandion Games)On this week of The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin hits the trail with Andy and Elyssa Boyd, each of whom has their own unique business here in Greenville. In Part 1, we hear from Andy as he discusses his love for games and storytelling and how this lead to the creation of Pandion Games. Stay tuned for Part 2 with Elyssa!
2023-05-1723 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Ginnie FreemanThis week on The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin learns how to buy a house. Well, not really, but he does get the chance to walk and talk with award-winning Upstate SC realtor, Ginnie Freeman. Ginnie shares her story of falling in love with Greenville during her time at Furman Univeristy and her passion for connecting her clients with their perfect home in the Greenville area. Tune in and enjoy!
2023-05-1025 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Takeoff Mini GolfOn this week of The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is back on the Swamp Rabbit Trail with Megan Mishler, owner of Take Off Mini Golf. Megan shares some fun insight about starting the aviation-themed mini golf course, how she designed the unique 18 holes, and also talks about the dynamic of the downtown airport community. Tune in to hear more!
2023-05-0337 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Eric RozelskyThis week on the Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin is joined by the podcast’s first Greenville native, Eric Rozelsky. Eric grew up near downtown and has seen all the amazing changes happen right in front of him. Tune in to hear some of his favorite GVL memories and what he looks forward to in the future.
2023-04-2631 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Grace BowserOn this week of The Upstate Trail Talks, Griffin explores a part of the new Green Line Extension along with Grace Bowser, an engineer at one of the Upstate’s largest manufacturing facilities. She also shares some of her favorite places to check out downtown!
2023-04-1935 minThe Upstate Trail TalksOn the Trail with: Jordan WheelerWelcome to the inaugural episode of The Upstate Trail Talks! Griffin catches up with Jordan Wheeler, who talks about her love of photography, the transition from side hustle to full time job, and why Greenville is the perfect place for her business to thrive. Check her out @thewheelerphoto!
2023-04-1227 minThe Upstate Trail TalksIntroducing: The Upstate Trail TalksIntroducing GVL's newest podcast: The Upstate Trail Talks! Tune in each week as the show's host, Griffin Donley, interviews guests from all over the Upstate while walking on the Swamp Rabbit Trail and asks about what they do, why they love the Upstate SC, and how Greenville's rapid growth has impacted their lives.
2023-04-0300 min