Beyond Rockets

This episode originally aired in 2021. We sat down to talk with Bill Roark co-founder of Torch Technologies which is a 100% employee-owned system engineering, applied science, modeling & simulation, and information technology business. We discuss his background before Torch, the early years of Torch, and the ways in which Torch is looking to give back to the community for years to come.

In this episode, we sit down with Tim and Oscar, the duo behind Nicas Grill, a Nicaraguan-American fusion food truck that’s become a favorite across Huntsville and Madison. Tim and Oscar share how they transitioned from full-time careers to building a family-run business that’s now a regular at NASA, Research Park, and The Orion Amphitheater. They discuss their culinary roots, the evolution of their menu, and how they tailor their offerings to different events and audiences. From meeting music legends to supporting local festivals, this conversation is packed with stories, advice for aspiring food truck owners, and a glimpse into what’s next for Nicas Grill—including their plans to build a commissary and expand their community footprint.https://nicasgrillcafe.comhttps://www.instagram.com/nicasgrillcafe/SponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

In this episode, we sit down with Cody Morgan and Jamie Muñoz, the powerhouse duo behind Octo Hospitality and Blue Oak BBQ in Huntsville’s MidCity District. Originally from New Orleans, Cody and Jamie share how their early roots in the restaurant industry shaped their approach to hospitality, community, and culture.We dive into their journey from Bourbon Street to North Alabama, their first impressions of Huntsville, and the serendipitous meeting that led to their now-signature events at The Camp. From the explosive success of their first Mardi Gras Day celebration to Crawfish Fest and the WhistleStop BBQ Festival, they talk about building experiences that go beyond food—and the “gumbo effect” that makes it all feel special.You’ll also hear about the launch of Blue Oak in MidCity, their plans for the restaurant inside the new Hotel Indigo, and how they’ve built teams that live and breathe hospitality. Plus, they reflect on how a single book—Unreasonable Hospitality—helped shape their leadership style and guest philosophy.Whether you’re in the restaurant industry or just love good food and great stories, this episode is packed with insights on growth, grit, and giving people more than they expect.SponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

Huntsville’s history is full of fascinating stories—some well-known, others nearly forgotten. In this episode, we sit down with SuAnne Griffith, creator of Lily Flagg's Signal Podcast, to talk about her passion for uncovering the city’s past. From growing up in small-town Gurley to earning multiple engineering degrees and even teaching as a professor, Su Ann’s journey eventually led her back to Huntsville, where she now shares local history through podcasting, social media, and community storytelling.We dive into the research behind her episodes, the challenges of separating fact from legend, and some of Huntsville’s most intriguing historical figures and landmarks—including the Russel Erskine Hotel, the Times Building, and the surprising backstory of Alabama A&M’s founder, Dr. William Hooper Councill. Whether you're a lifelong Huntsvillian or new to the city, this conversation will change the way you see the streets, buildings, and history all around you.Tune in to learn more about Huntsville’s hidden past and find SuAnne’s work at Lily Flagg's Signal Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and social media!SponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

In this episode, we sit down with Ashli and Michaela of AM Collective to talk about their journey from childhood friends to business partners, growing their creative space from a small shop in Clinton Row to their expansive new storefront in South Huntsville. They share how their impulsive decision to start a business, their deep-rooted connection to the Huntsville community, and a few unexpected twists along the way led them to where they are today.From navigating business growth during the pandemic to building a thriving creative hub for local artists, Ashley and Mikayla discuss the challenges, wins, and the importance of having a landing space for creatives. Plus, they reveal their plans for 2025, including upcoming markets, artist collaborations, and a secret event in the works.Discover more about AM Collective:🌎 Website: amcollectivehuntsville.com📷 Instagram: @amcollectivehuntsvilleTune in now to hear their story and what’s next for Huntsville’s growing creative scene!

In this episode, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle shares his journey of calling Huntsville home for over 40 years and reflects on the city’s growth and transformation. He discusses the unique blend of lifelong residents and newcomers who contribute to Huntsville’s dynamic community. Mayor Battle highlights how the city thrives when everyone, from planners to everyday citizens, plays a role in shaping its future. We explore how ideas from other communities help drive progress while preserving what makes Huntsville special. Tune in for an insightful conversation about leadership, collaboration, and the magic that happens when a city comes together. SponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

The craft beer and spirits scene in Huntsville is thriving, and Yellowhammer Brewing is right at the heart of it. In this episode, Ethan Couch shares how the rise of bourbon and barrel-aged spirits is shaping their taproom experience—because what’s ‘smooth’ for one person might be something completely different for another.But it’s not just about what’s in your glass—it’s about the whole experience. That’s where Campus 805 After 5 comes in. Ethan dives into this exciting, free concert series kicking off in May, designed to showcase the best of Huntsville’s nightlife, from breweries to late-night bars and a refreshed green space. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a bourbon lover, or just looking for a great night out, this episode is for you!Check out the first time we had Ethan on the pony checking out the episode belowhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/73CcyWi0KR9ijOmGpZZhZi?si=V50BcFFzSfSk24GShC1k1QSponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

What if a simple box of Kleenex or a stack of Expo markers could change a classroom? 🏫✏️ In this episode, Alison Kling, CEO of Free 2 Teach, shares how this incredible organization is equipping educators with the supplies they need—completely free of charge. From giving away 32,000 books last year to fostering a culture of joy and hospitality, Free 2 Teach is bridging the gap between teachers and the resources they deserve. Tune in to hear how teacher-driven initiatives are shaping classrooms, easing burdens, and making public education stronger. https://free2teach.orgSponsorYellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.MusicAny Day by Them Damn Dogs⁠⁠⁠ https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

Mental health care is at a turning point, and innovation is leading the way. In this episode, we sit down with John Schmitt, CEO of iXpressGenes, to explore how his company is pioneering a groundbreaking test that could revolutionize mental health treatment in Alabama as early as February or March. With PTSD affecting 7-12% of the population and mental health costs soaring to $230 billion in the U.S., early intervention is more critical than ever. John shares how iXpressGenes’ technology has the potential to identify risks sooner, cut healthcare costs, and, most importantly, prevent years of suffering. https://www.ixpressgenes.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmittjm/ Sponsor Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805. Music Any Day by Them Damn Dogs ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w

The creative community in Huntsville is buzzing with energy, and Sugar Pusher is right in the middle of it all. In this episode, she shares her journey of staying true to her creative vision while navigating the ever-evolving world of Instagram and balancing growth with authenticity. We dive into Huntsville’s artistic rise, the ripple effect of community-driven success, and how local talent is finding the courage to turn their passions into thriving careers. Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur or simply curious about the forces shaping Huntsville’s creative scene, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. https://www.instagram.com/sugarpusher/ Sponsor Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website ⁠⁠⁠https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com⁠⁠⁠ or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805. Music Any Day by Them Damn Dogs ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w