The Word of Mouth Podcast

009. Courtney Lowe; From Curtain to Community

In this inspiring episode of the Word of Mouth podcast, host Ken Lewis sits down with Courtney Lowe, President of High Point Community Theater (HPCT). Together, they explore the power of theater to transform lives, build self-confidence, and bring people together from all walks of life. From her early days as a “theater kid” to leading one of High Point’s most beloved creative institutions, Courtney shares heartfelt stories of growth, family, mentorship, and perseverance—both on and off the stage. Whether you're a parent, performer, or simply someone curious about the arts, this conversation will leave you believing in the magic of community theater.

008. Johnny Davis; Slow Down to Speed Up

In this season-opening episode of The Word of Mouth Podcast, host Ken Lewis reconnects with Johnny Davis, founder and creative director of Johnny Davis Digital Solutions. Together, they dive deep into the evolution of the company—from its scrappy beginnings with just a camera and three lights, to its current state as a full-service production house specializing in photography, video, and set design. Johnny opens up about the importance of pausing to refocus, strengthening client relationships, and leading with authenticity. He also shares powerful lessons on perseverance, collaboration, and creative growth in an ever-demanding industry. This isn’t just a business update—it’s a heartfelt reflection on building something that lasts.

007. Jason Phillips; Legacy in the Details

In this episode of Word of Mouth, host Ken Lewis welcomes Jason Phillips, CEO of Phillips Collection, for a wide-ranging and inspiring conversation about legacy, sustainability, and the art of building timeless design.
Jason opens up about the origins of his family’s globally recognized brand, its creative ethos, and the role that bold thinking—and thoughtful restraint—plays in crafting heirloom-quality pieces. From the influence of global artisan communities to Hollywood set design, from the science of neurodesign to the simple elegance of natural materials, this episode is a masterclass in both vision and execution.
We also explore Phillips Collection’s commitment to sustainability, including its recent Green Award win, and Jason's reflections on the balance between innovation and staying true to a brand’s DNA. Whether you're a designer, a maker, or someone who appreciates thoughtful beauty, this episode offers wisdom, wit, and real-world insight.

006. Ken Waldecker; Once Upon a Story

In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Ken Waldecker, the tech-professional-turned-author behind the Princess Ella book series, to uncover the magical journey of storytelling, self-publishing, and raising a real-life heroine. Ken shares how bedtime tales for his daughter blossomed into beautifully illustrated books, a growing fanbase, and a self-made publishing company. From creative inspiration and family collaboration to the challenges of marketing and printing, Ken opens up about the hustle, the heart, and the hope behind bringing stories to life.

005. Jeremy Kamiya; Built by Hand, Rooted in Heart

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Jeremy Kamiya, a passionate boutique furniture designer and manufacturer whose craftsmanship is as intentional as his values. He shares how  his faith and family shaped his creative vision and how those same values guide his business today. From the workshop to the dinner table, Jeremy discusses how he balances the demands of design with the joys of fatherhood and marriage—and why family is the foundation of everything he builds. Whether you're a maker, entrepreneur, or simply seeking inspiration tune in for a conversation about craftsmanship, connection, and the quiet power of creating with purpose.

004. Kenzi Reddick; Grace and Growth: Embracing Life’s Creative Chapters

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, we’re joined by Kenzi Reddick, a creative force and storyteller who brings wisdom, warmth, and clarity to life’s ever-evolving journey. With a background rooted in art and innovation, she opens up about the power of embracing challenges—not with resistance, but with grace, grit, and quiet determination.
We dive into the art of navigating life’s many chapters, from personal reinvention to creative breakthroughs, and how staying open to change can lead to some of our most transformative moments. With vulnerability and strength, Kenzi shares insights on adapting to life’s curveballs while staying anchored in your purpose and passion.
SHOW NOTES:
How creativity becomes a compass through uncertainty
The mindset needed to move through life’s transitions
Lessons in resilience and reinvention
Why every chapter—no matter how hard—has value
Staying connected to yourself through change
This episode is a gentle yet powerful reminder that life is not a straight line—and that our greatest growth often comes from the places we least expect. If you’re navigating change or craving creative renewal, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.

003. Ericka Saurit; From Interiors to Icons: Branding with Purpose

In this dynamic episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Ericka Saurit, an international brand strategist with a rare blend of creative intuition and business acumen. Once an interior designer herself, Ericka has carved out a powerful niche helping businesses — from boutique studios to global firms — craft extraordinary brand positioning that sets them apart.
With deep roots in the design industry, she brings a unique perspective to brand-building, blending visual storytelling with strategic clarity. We explore how she transitioned from designing physical spaces to shaping brand identities, what it really takes to stand out in a saturated market, and how designers can move from service providers to unforgettable brands.
SHOW NOTES:
Her journey from interior design to international branding
How to uncover and own your brand’s “extraordinary”
Lessons from working with design professionals around the world
The mindset shifts creative entrepreneurs need to grow
If you’re a designer, creative, or entrepreneur ready to elevate your brand from good to magnetic, this conversation is packed with clarity, insight, and inspiration.

002. Jane Dagmi; HPXD, the magic of design and stage of High Point

In this episode, we sit down with Jane Dagmi, a seasoned voice in the world of interior design and a former magazine editor with a sharp eye for aesthetics and storytelling. Join us as she shares her journey through the editorial world into the heart of design, reflecting on the understated charm of High Point, North Carolina — a place she describes like "slow food and slow cooking”
From trade shows to timeless trends, Jane offers a thoughtful take on the evolution of design, the importance of simplicity, and how meaningful spaces are created. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or just love a good story, this episode is a warm, insightful look into the creative currents shaping our interiors — and the communities behind them.
SHOW NOTES:
What makes High Point a hidden gem in the design world
The editor's eye: storytelling through style
The shift from print to personal design storytelling
Where inspiration really begins
Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of perspective, purpose, and a deep love for the spaces we call home.

001. Johnny Davis; The origin story

Every good epic has an origin.Listen to our first episode as we begin our conversation with Johnny Davis; owner of Johnny Davis Digital Solutions.We talk about Johnny's creative background, and the influences and decisions that led him to where he is now. We also discuss the goals of this podcast, and where the industry we serve is going.