The Hitstreak

Episode 208 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by Artist, Songwriter & Advocate, Struggle Jennings!Episode in a Glance:Check it out! In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to engage in a deep conversation with Struggle Jennings, a multifaceted artist and advocate. We discuss the importance of pursuing dreams, the challenges of navigating the music industry as an independent artist, and the influence of family legacy. Struggle shares his personal journey, including his experiences with addiction, recovery, and the impact of his music on others. This episode also highlights the work of Smiles for Recovery and Dollars for a Heart, emphasizing the power of community support and the ripple effect of kindness in transforming lives.Key Points:- Always pursue your dreams despite obstacles.- Navigating the music industry requires resilience and creativity.- Storytelling in music connects deeply with audiences.- Community support is vital for recovery and growth.- Independent artists can thrive without major labels.- Personal growth is a continuous journey.- The ripple effect of kindness can transform communities.- It's never too late to change your life.About our guest: Grandson of the legendary Waylon Jennings, Struggle Jennings has built his own legacy by turning hardship into hope. His journey—from battles with addiction and prison time to becoming a voice of resilience—shows that redemption is always possible. Beyond the music, Struggle is dedicated to giving back. Through Smiles For Recovery, he helps restore dignity and confidence by providing dental care and support to those in recovery. He also partners with Dollars With a Heart, an organization fighting hunger and responding to urgent needs. Together, they bring both immediate help and long-term healing to those who need it most. Struggle’s mission is simple yet powerful: break stigmas, restore hope, and use his platform to change lives.Follow and contact:Instagram: @iamstrugglestrugglejennings.com**Once the goal of 2.5 million members is met, 1,000 limited-edition T-shirts and the unreleased song will be sent, along with the first 1,000 full dental care awards!**Subscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 207 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Founder of Real Branding and Lead Editor at The HitLab Creative Studios, Cole Thurman!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to discuss the evolving landscape of social media and content creation with Cole Thurman, the lead editor here at HitLab Creative Studios. We explore the importance of storytelling, the power of short-form content, and the strategies behind successful social media engagement. Our conversation emphasizes the need for brands to own their content, leverage their hits, and understand their audience's needs to drive engagement and sales. With insights on the role of AI in editing and the balance between quality and quantity, this episode serves as a guide for anyone looking to enhance their digital presence and connect with their audience effectively. We emphasize the value of strong client relationships, the challenges faced in the journey, and the necessity of having a clear strategy in social media marketing. We end the episode with the impact of integrity and consistency in business practices, as well as the excitement for future developments in our content strategy.Key Points:- Winners find a way to succeed in their endeavors.- Short-form content is crucial for social media success.- Reposting successful content can significantly increase engagement.- Quality content is essential for standing out in attention media.- Understanding your audience is key to effective marketing.- AI tools can enhance content creation but require skill to use effectively.- Frequency of posting can lead to greater brand recognition.- Growth often comes with challenges and growing pains.- A clear strategy is essential for effective content creation.- The future of content strategy is bright and full of potential. -Social media is a powerful tool for business transformation.About our guest: Cole Thurman, often called the “Kobe Bryant of video editing,” is the founder of Real Branding and Lead Editor at The HitLab Creative Studios. With a track record of generating hundreds of millions of views for clients, he has become a trusted partner for entrepreneurs, influencers, and thought leaders such as Brad Lea, Jessie Lee Ward, Gabby Bernstein, and Nick Hiter.Cole is known for creating high-quality edits and captivating content that doesn’t just entertain—it converts. His approach blends creativity, strategy, and precision, helping brands grow their influence and revenue online. Based in Marceline, Missouri—the boyhood home of Walt Disney—Cole draws inspiration from storytelling and legacy while raising his three children.Follow and contact:Instagram: @mrcolethurmanhitlabstudio.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 206 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by Singer, Songwriter, Speaker & The Overall Attraction, Bigg Vinny!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to welcome back Bigg Vinny, who shares his journey through music, DJing, and personal transformation. Bigg discusses his experiences on The Biggest Loser, the evolution of Nashville's music scene, and the importance of health and fitness. He emphasizes the value of movement, creativity, and community support in achieving personal goals. Our conversation highlights Bigg’s resilience and the power of second chances, making it an inspiring listen for anyone looking to improve their lives. In this engaging episode, we talk about his creative process behind his music video, the collaborative efforts with friends and family, and the exciting events planned at the Buffalo River Resort. We end with reflections on his career journey, emphasizing personal growth and the desire to provide for his family while pursuing his passions.Key Points:- Nashville's music scene is evolving with new opportunities for performers.- The Biggest Loser changed Big Vinny's life- Health and fitness journeys are personal and vary for everyone.- Creativity in music can come from spontaneous moments and collaborations.- The importance of sleep and recovery in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.- Big Vinny's journey reflects resilience and the power of second chances.- The importance of kids knowing the value of earning.- The importance of being an active dad in my kids' lives.- Power of owning landAbout our guest: Bigg Vinny’s life is proof that resilience rewrites destiny. From escaping an abusive childhood and surviving homelessness to co-founding Trailer Choir and touring with Toby Keith, his story has always been about beating the odds. America watched him transform on NBC’s The Biggest Loser, where he lost 242 pounds, overcame diabetes, and discovered the power of self-love and perseverance. Today, Vinny is busier than ever. He’s releasing new music, including his latest single “Walmart Drip”, while also keeping crowds moving as DJ Bigg Vinny. As co-host of The Refined Life Podcast, he brings real, unfiltered conversations about growth, faith, and humor to listeners everywhere. Off stage, he’s an investor in the Buffalo River Resort, creating a destination for relaxation, nature, and community. He continues to perform with the Nashville Cartel and captivate audiences in the Shriners Nashville Variety Show, blending his love of music with his gift for entertaining. A storyteller, entrepreneur, and motivator, Vinny’s mission is simple: to inspire others to face life’s challenges with courage, creativity, and joy.Follow and contact:Instagram: @biggvinnyofficialbiggvinnyofficial.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 205 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Founder & CEO of Unblurred Media & Founder of POTSies, Kristen Kukta!Let us know in the comments what YOU want to hear about next!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of the Hitstreak, I get to welcome back Kristen Kukta, founder of Unblurred Media and POTSies. We discuss the importance of authenticity in marketing, the challenges of living with POTS syndrome, and the evolving landscape of public relations in the digital age. Kristen shares her personal journey with POTS, the significance of community support, and the realities of the supplement industry. The episode emphasizes the need for education and awareness around invisible illnesses, as well as a call to action for listeners to support those with invisible illnesses and to seek out reliable information and community resources.Key Points:- Authenticity is crucial in marketing and branding.- POTS syndrome is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed.- The supplement industry is filled with challenges and regulations.- Community support is vital for those with invisible illnesses.- Education on POTS is essential for both patients and healthcare providers.- Holistic approaches can complement traditional medical treatments.- The media landscape has changed, affecting how PR works today.About our guest: Kristen Kukta is the founder and CEO of Unblurred Media, a Nashville-based PR and marketing agency, and the creator of POTSies, a supplement brand supporting those with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Diagnosed with POTS in 2016, Kristen turned her personal health journey into a mission, developing POTSies alongside medical experts to provide real solutions for patients. Through Unblurred Media, she’s helped businesses nationwide cut through the noise with bold PR campaigns, e-commerce growth, and high-impact storytelling. Beyond business, Kristen supports community initiatives like Change the Stars, an annual event benefiting children in Haiti. Her work bridges health, entrepreneurship, and empowerment—giving both people and brands the tools to be seen, heard, and supported.Follow and contact:Instagram: @kkukta | @unblurredmedia | @potsies.counblurredmedia.com | potsies.coCheck it out! For a limited time, use the keyword “Hitstreak” for 20% off your order at potsies.co!Subscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 204 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Chief Operating/Credit Officer at Citizens Savings Bank & Trust Company & the Founder of The Hammonds Group, Corey Hammonds!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Corey Hammonds, Chief Operating and Credit Officer at Citizens Bank and Trust, discussing the importance of banking relationships, financial literacy, and the impact of community banking. We explore Corey's journey in the banking and real estate sectors, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's financial needs and the value of investing in real estate. The episode also touches on the evolution of banking, the importance of trust, and the need for financial education in today's society.Key Points:- Understanding your banking needs is crucial for success.- Building relationships in banking can open doors to opportunities.- Financial dignity is essential for empowering communities.- Investing in real estate is a key strategy for wealth building.- Teaching financial literacy to the next generation is vital.- Trust is a fundamental aspect of banking relationships.- The fundamentals of banking have remained consistent over time.- Access to financial information is more important than ever.About our guest: Corey Hammonds is a Nashville native, visionary banking executive, and real estate entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in revitalizing Citizens Bank, the oldest African American-owned bank in the U.S. With a strong background in real estate development, investment, and asset management, he also leads The Hammonds Group, a full-service firm providing brokerage, appraisal, property management, and consulting services. Corey is recognized for bridging capital access with community needs, driving initiatives in urban redevelopment, affordable housing, and minority wealth-building. His leadership, grounded in collaboration and integrity, continues to expand opportunities and shape sustainable economic inclusion for underserved communities.Follow and contact:Instagram: @hammondsrealestate | @citizensbank1904www.bankcbn.com | www.TheHammondsGroup.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 203 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Co-Founder of Smiles For Recovery, Justin Lowry!Episode in a Glance:This episode of The Hitstreak features Justin Lowry, co-founder of Smiles for Recovery, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free dental care to individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Justin and I explore the profound impact of dental health on recovery, the importance of mental health, and personal stories of transformation. Justin shares insights into the organization's mission, the patient demographics they serve, and the training programs for young dentists. We emphasize the need for community support and the financial aspects of providing dental care, ultimately calling for action to help those in need.Key Points:- Smiles for Recovery provides free dental care to those in recovery.- Dental health significantly impacts mental health and recovery outcomes.- Personal stories highlight the transformative power of a smile.- Training young dentists is crucial for the future of dental care in recovery.- Mental health is a critical component of addiction recovery.- Community support is essential for sustaining nonprofit efforts.- Smiles for Recovery aims to reverse the stigma associated with addiction.About our guest: Justin Lowry, a Nashville native and MTSU graduate, transformed his 25-year battle with addiction into a mission to help others. In 2023, he partnered with longtime friend Dr. Aaron Pryor to launch Smiles For Recovery, a program providing free dental implants to those in need while training young surgeons.What started as a simple idea quickly grew into a movement. In January 2024, their team of doctors placed over 100 implants in a single day, giving patients life-changing smiles. Since December 2023, they have provided over $4.5 million in free dental care and placed more than 700 implants for individuals who could never afford such treatment.On July 4, 2024, Smiles For Recovery became an official nonprofit with a dedicated Board of Directors. Justin and his team remain committed to restoring confidence and transforming lives—one smile at a time.Follow and contact:Instagram: @smilesforrecovery | @therealjustinlowrysmilesforrecovery.orgSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 202 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Chairman and Founder of the Matt Theriot Foundation & Highland Scholars Fund, Matt TheRiot!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of the Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Matt Theriot, founder of the Highland Scholars Fund and the Matt Theriot Foundation. We discuss the importance of financial literacy, the impact of community, and the personal journey that led Matt to create a foundation aimed at providing scholarships for children. This episode delves into the significance of leadership, family dynamics, and the necessity of creating access to opportunities for others. Matt shares his experiences in business and philanthropy, emphasizing the need for emotional investment in both personal and professional endeavors.Key Points:- Every child deserves a chance to learn, grow, and lead.- The Highland Scholars Fund aims to provide scholarships for children.- Creating a unique brand identity can help in fundraising efforts.- Financial literacy is crucial for managing wealth and taxes.- Community support can significantly impact personal growth.- Leaders must manage their emotional baggage to set a positive tone at home.- Access to resources and opportunities is vital for success.- Philanthropy can be a powerful motivator for business growth.- Building a legacy involves thinking beyond personal gain.About our guest: Matt Theriot, known to many as Matt TheRiot, born and raised in the New Orleans metro area, Matt's life took a profound turn when he witnessed a traumatic accident at age 14 involving his father. He worked through high school, not having free time to get involved in extracurriculars. After Graduation, Matt served for 2 years in the Air Force and 2 years in the Army where he had 2 knee surgeries. He moved on to become a professional dance teacher, where he met his wife Kai of 25 years. Together they have 7 children, from ages 12 to 24. He has worked in the Finance & Business Consulting arena for the last 25 years. Now, he serves as Chairman and Founder of the Matt Theriot Foundation & Highland Scholars Fund — a New Orleans-based nonprofit with a mission to fund scholarships for youth to attend private High School. Through his Foundation and the Highland Scholars Fund, he’s committed to funding 100 scholarships for New Orleans youth.  Matt doesn’t just want to write checks — he’s passionate about inspiring others who will someday leave a legacy of their own. Matt is committed to “Impact Over Income.”Follow and contact:Instagram: @matthewtheriothsfnola.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 201 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Head Coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores Football Team, and the 2024 SEC Coach Of The Year, Coach Clark Lea!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Clark Lea, the head coach of Vanderbilt football, and discuss the journey of building a championship environment in his hometown. We explore the challenges and triumphs of coaching, the significance of community support, and the impact of NIL on college sports. Coach Clark shares personal reflections on leadership, the importance of holistic development in athletes, and his aspirations for the future of the program.Key Points:- Building a championship environment leads to inevitable success.- Community support is crucial for a sports program's growth.- Holistic development of athletes is a priority.- The SEC presents unique challenges in college football.- NIL is reshaping the landscape of college athletics.- Coaching is about more than just winning games.- Personal growth is essential for effective leadership.- The love of the game should come before material gains.- Communication is key in building a strong team culture.- Success is a journey that requires endurance and commitment.About our guest: Clark Lea, the 2024 SEC Coach of the Year, enters his fifth season as head coach at his alma mater, Vanderbilt. In 2024, he led the Commodores to their first bowl win and first winning season in over a decade, earning national recognition with wins over the top-ranked team and at Auburn for the first time ever. Under Lea, Vandy had its most All-SEC picks since 2013 and its best defensive scoring average since 2015. Off the field, the team set records for academic honors. A former defensive coordinator at Notre Dame, Lea helped the Irish reach the College Football Playoff twice. He also coached at Wake Forest, Syracuse, Bowling Green, UCLA, and South Dakota State. A Nashville native, Lea played baseball and football in college and holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Vanderbilt.Follow and contact:Instagram: @coachlea_vu | @vandyfootball⁠vucommodores.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 200 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by our very own HitLab Office Manager, Executive Assistant & Booking Manager to Nick Hiter, Dale “The SuperMale” Hiter!Episode in a Glance:In this milestone 200th episode of The Hitstreak, I get to sit down with our very own Dale “the SuperMale” and reflect on the journey of the podcast, discussing the evolution of the show, memorable guests, and the behind-the-scenes processes that have contributed to its success. We share insights into the guest selection process, statistics, and personal anecdotes that highlight the growth and impact of the podcast over the years. In this episode, we discuss the importance of building relationships with guests and the impact of their experiences on the podcast's growth. Dale and I also highlight inspiring guests, the art of preparation, and the lessons learned along the way, culminating in excitement for future episodes and continued growth.Key Points:- The Hitstreak has reached a seven-figure audience.- The podcast serves as a platform for underdogs and dreamers.- Over 500 hours of footage have been recorded in four years.- Guest selection is a meticulous process involving a prospect list.- The podcast has featured 219 different guests over its run.- Statistics show a growing interest from potential guests and PR firms.- Personal stories from guests often resonate deeply with the audience.- The booking process involves managing expectations and communication.- Building relationships with guests is a key benefit of podcasting.- Preparation is crucial for a successful podcast episode.- Memorable guests include Lester McLean and Charlie Monk.- Protecting the podcast's brand has become increasingly important.- The hosts are excited about future guests and episodes. About our guest: Dale Hiter was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, and is a proud graduate of Antioch High School in Middle Tennessee. He spent 39 years with AT&T—though he’ll tell you his best days were with BellSouth—earning a reputation for dedication, professionalism, and reliability before retiring in 2017. Since 2019, Dale has served as Office Manager at HitLab and Booking Manager to Nick Hiter, playing a vital role in managing schedules, logistics, and day-to-day operations with precision and consistency. His calm presence, sharp attention to detail, and decades of experience make him a cornerstone of the team. A cousin to Nick, Dale brings a deep sense of loyalty, faith, and family to everything he does. He’s a devoted fan of Vanderbilt football, the Tennessee Titans, and the Boston Red Sox—but his favorite title by far is “Granddad” to his two-year-old granddaughter, who he often says is “what it’s all about.” Outside the office, Dale enjoys quiet time with family and staying rooted in the community he’s always called home.Follow and contact:Instagram: @dalehiterhitlabstudio.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

Episode 199 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Vice President of East Cobb Baseball, Kevin Baldwin!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Kevin Baldwin, the head coach of the East Cobb Astro 17U national team, discussing the legacy of East Cobb Baseball, its evolution over 40 years, and the impact of Guerry Baldwin, Kevin’s Dad. We explore the importance of competition, the right fit for youth players, and the lessons learned from alumni. The episode also touches on the family dynamics within sports and the future of East Cobb Academy, emphasizing the significance of fostering a love for the game while ensuring players are in the right environment to succeed. We go into the importance of calculated risk-taking in youth sports, the commitment required from players and parents, and the unique challenges of coaching in a competitive environment. Kevin also emphasizes the need for purpose in expanding youth sports programs and the significance of teaching kids to love the game.Key Points:- East Cobb Baseball has been leading the charge for 40 years.- It's important to instill a mindset of competition and hard work in youth sports.- Baseball is a game, and games are supposed to be fun.- You can't push your kids into something they're not comfortable with.- Purpose-driven expansion is crucial for youth sports organizations.- Coaching requires understanding each player's unique needs.- Parents should do their homework on coaches and teams.- Kids need to be in environments where they want to play.- Commitment and availability are key for competitive players.- Understanding the nuances of baseball is vital for success.- NIL is changing the landscape of youth sports.About our guest: Kevin Baldwin grew up immersed in baseball—you could say he was raised in the dugout. A former high school All-American and graduate of Western Carolina and Kennesaw State, Kevin dedicated his life to helping young athletes grow and succeed in the game. He coached the ECB 17u Braves for 9 years, leading teams to multiple national titles, including the Perfect Game BCS and WWBA Championships. Along the way, he coached future MLB stars like Buster Posey, Javier Báez, and Jason Heyward. When his kids were born, Kevin began co-coaching the 16u Astros with his father, Guerry, to bring the family along for the ride. Eventually, he returned to lead the ECB 17u Astros, where he continues to build a winning culture—earning national titles and mentoring future pros like Zack Wheeler, Will Smith, and Taylor Trammell. Kevin’s coaching philosophy is rooted in creating a high-level learning environment, elite competition, and a deep love for the game.Follow and contact:Instagram: @eastcobbbaseball_officialeastcobbbaseball.comSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter