The Hitstreak

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

Episode 198 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the CEO and Co-Founder of Play Social, Jennifer Worthington!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I sit down with Jennifer Worthington, CEO and co-founder of Play Playground, a rapidly growing immersive entertainment venue. We discuss the importance of personal responsibility, the evolution of entertainment, and the unique concept of Play Playground, which aims to foster social connections through play. Jennifer shares her journey from Hollywood film production to the hospitality industry, highlighting key lessons learned along the way. The episode also touches on marketing strategies in the digital age, the significance of resilience, and the future expansion plans for Play Playground.Key Points:- Teaching kids personal responsibility is crucial.- Immersive experiences are the future of entertainment.- Play Playground aims to create social connections.- The entertainment industry is evolving rapidly.- Valuable lessons about resilience.- Marketing today is more complex than ever.- Understanding your market is key to business success.- Failure is a part of the entrepreneurial journey.- Creating unique experiences is essential for success.About our guest: Jennifer Worthington is the CEO and Co-Founder of Play Social, one of the fastest-growing hospitality companies in the U.S., known for its immersive concept, Play Playground. A visionary entrepreneur, Jennifer has spent over two decades leading innovation in film, nightlife, and experiential entertainment. At just 23, she became Senior Vice President at Jerry Bruckheimer Films, contributing to blockbusters like Pirates of the Caribbean, Armageddon, and Black Hawk Down. She later transitioned from Hollywood to hospitality, launching successful nightlife ventures including the iconic Coyote Ugly Saloon in Las Vegas. Jennifer is also the author of The Spirit of Las Vegas, published by Assouline.  Now at the helm of Play Social, she’s redefining adult entertainment through tech-driven, nostalgic play experiences that transform how people connect.An alumna of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and Harvard Business School’s Women Leading Business program, Jennifer continues to shape the future of entertainment through creativity, leadership, and bold vision.Follow and contact:Instagram: @jenworthington | @play_playgroundwww.playplayground.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 197 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Nationally Recognized Addiction Medicine Physician, Speaker, and Public Health Leader, Dr. Stephen Loyd!Episode in a Glance:In this episode, Dr. Steven Lloyd and I discuss the profound impact of addiction on individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of recovery, the role of dental care in rebuilding lives, and the need for open conversations about addiction and its stigma. He highlights the opioid crisis, the dangers of fentanyl, and the significance of community support and faith-based initiatives in combating addiction. We also touch on the importance of personal stories in fostering hope and understanding, as well as the need for resources and non-judgmental approaches to support those in recovery.Key Points:- Smiles for Recovery provides essential dental care for those in recovery.- Addiction has caused more deaths than all U.S. wars combined.- The stigma surrounding addiction prevents open discussions.- Genetics, trauma, and opportunity play significant roles in addiction.- Dental health is crucial for rebuilding confidence in recovery.- Shame can be a barrier to recovery but can also lead to humility.- Parents should have open conversations with their teens about addiction.- Fentanyl poses a significant risk, even in small amounts.- Community efforts are vital in addressing the addiction crisis.- There are more individuals in recovery than in active addiction.About our guest: Dr. Stephen D. Loyd, M.D., is a nationally recognized addiction medicine physician, speaker, and public health leader. He serves as Medical Director at Cedar Recovery, New Hope Treatment Center, and The Next Door, and volunteers at Renewal House and Mending Hearts. A graduate of ETSU’s Quillen College of Medicine, Dr. Loyd also teaches at ETSU and lectures at Vanderbilt. He’s a former Tennessee Assistant Commissioner for Substance Abuse Services and National Medical Director at Journey Pure. As a physician in long-term recovery, he brings personal insight to his advocacy for evidence-based treatment. Dr. Loyd has advised the DEA, FBI, and U.S. Attorney’s Office, and his story has been featured in NPR, CBS, The New York Times, and Dopesick, where Michael Keaton’s character was partly based on him. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and a White House Advocate for Action award recipient. His mission: change how America sees addiction—and save lives.Follow and contact:Instagram: @drstephen_loydwww.cedarrecovery.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 196 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by Former Professional Baseball Player, Owner of Corporate Insurance Group and Torbett Insurance, Hanes Torbett!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of the Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Hanes Torbett, a former professional baseball player and current Tennessee coordinator for the National Prayer Breakfast. We discuss the importance of building relationships, the impact of community engagement, and the personal journey of balancing family and professional life. Hanes shares his experiences at the National Prayer Breakfast, the significance of hard work and dedication, and the lessons learned from sports that apply to life and business. The episode also delves into the insurance industry, emphasizing the importance of disability insurance and making informed financial choices.Key Points:- Building relationships is crucial for personal and professional success.- Community engagement can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities.- Family support is essential in balancing work and personal life.- Hard work and dedication unlock potential and lead to success.- Understanding financial products like life insurance is vital for long-term planning.- Disability insurance is often overlooked but is essential for protecting income.- Making informed choices requires collaboration and communication with partners.- The power of words can significantly impact motivation and self-esteem.- Encouragement and support from loved ones can drive individuals to achieve their goals.About our guest: Hanes Torbett is a man of faith, family, and purpose. His relationship with Jesus Christ is the foundation of his life and leadership. He’s a proud husband, father, and founder of a successful insurance agency built on trust and service.A former baseball player, Hanes credits the game with shaping his character and drive. In 2020, he deepened his personal growth through an intensive session with Sessions Therapy, a turning point in his journey. Hanes actively supports National and Local Prayer Breakfasts and finds deep joy in coaching youth baseball—watching players grow into successful individuals. His impact also extends globally, bringing hope to children in Egypt through the game he loves. In all he does, Hanes leads with humility, intentionality, and a heart for others.Follow and contact:Instagram: @tarheelbbtorbettfinancial.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 195 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Founder and Owner of Elite Customs, Rich McClellan!Episode in a Glance:In this episode of The Hitstreak, I sit down with Rich McClellan, founder of Elite Customs, discussing his journey in the automotive customization industry. Rich shares insights on customer service, the importance of personal relationships, and the evolution of his business over the years. He emphasizes the significance of education in the industry, the challenges of customization, and the untapped potential of female clients in automotive. The episode also touches on innovative practices like powder coating and partnerships with other businesses, showcasing Rich's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.Key Points:- Rich emphasizes the importance of personal relationships in business.- Education is crucial for customers to understand their options.- Rich's business started with a small investment and grew through word of mouth.- He believes in standing behind his work and providing excellent customer service.- Customization requires understanding the client's vision and managing expectations.- Rich's wife plays a significant role in his business and marketing efforts.- The importance of digital presence is recognized as a growth opportunity.- Rich shares his experiences with high-profile clients like Jelly Roll.- Building a strong reputation in a niche market is key to success.About our guest: Richard “Rich” McClellan is the founder of Elite Customs, a top luxury automotive customization shop in Franklin, Tennessee. With 20+ years in the industry and nearly a decade as a business owner, Rich is known for blending West Coast flair with Southern craftsmanship in Middle Tennessee’s high-end car scene. Originally from San Bernardino, California, Rich was shaped by lowrider and hip-hop culture, and raised by a hardworking single mom. After moving to Las Vegas and then Nashville, he channeled his passion for electronics and cars into a career, gaining a reputation early on for fixing anything—from game consoles to car systems. What started as a side hustle grew into Elite Customs, now known for award-winning builds and collaborations with top dealerships, national brands, and music stars like Jelly Roll. From Brabus G-Wagons to classic Lincolns, Rich’s work speaks for itself. Fueled by challenges and driven by hands-on experience, Rich is redefining the custom car industry. Alongside his wife Sam, he’s building not just a business, but a movement—making customization more transparent, inclusive, and cutting-edge.Follow and contact:Instagram: @rich_m615 | @elitecustomstnelitecustomstn.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