Marie Kline spent nearly nine years at Amazon, including working with AI teams in HR, and now serves as Global Director of Talent and Organizational Effectiveness at TERREPOWER. But here on the Gulf Coast, she’s also building something much more local: Women Powered by AI, a hands-on meetup at Hatch designed to help women become more comfortable actually using AI in their everyday lives.

In this episode of the Hatch Podcast, Tim Scott sits down with Marie to talk about how the meetup came together, why she saw a need for it, and what happens when women ranging from complete beginners to experienced AI users get in the same room.

Marie shares practical examples of how she uses AI to manage her own family schedule, automate everyday tasks, organize competing priorities, and free up time. She also explains why the meetups are intentionally hands-on, giving attendees a chance to open the tools, learn how to use them safely, and start building real workflows before they leave.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• How Women Powered by AI started at Hatch
• Why Marie wanted to create a welcoming space for women to learn AI
• How AI can help manage family schedules and competing priorities
• Marie’s approach to creating a “Family OS”
• Why getting hands-on with AI is so important for beginners
• How the meetup serves everyone from first-time users to advanced AI users
• Practical ways attendees are using AI to save time at work and at home
• Why privacy, safety, and security are part of the conversation
• What’s next for Women Powered by AI in Fairhope and Mobile

FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE

Marie Kline
Global Director of Talent and Organizational Effectiveness, TERREPOWER
Founder/Organizer, Women Powered by AI

LEARN MORE

Hatch Fairhope
hatchfairhope.com

Hatch Events & Meetups
hatchfairhope.com/events

Produced by Tim Scott

Interested in starting a podcast? Learn more at:
timscott.me

For graphic designers, content creators, photographers, writers, artists, and other creative professionals, the work can sometimes feel surprisingly isolating. That’s part of the idea behind Atelier, a new creative meetup at Hatch designed to bring people together to connect, share ideas, learn from each other, and build a stronger creative community along the Gulf Coast.

In this episode of the Hatch Podcast, Tim Scott sits down with Madison Burkhardt and Vannie Bohlen, two of the organizers behind Atelier. They talk about where the idea came from, why they felt a creative community was missing in the area, who the meetup is for, and what people can expect when they attend.

They also discuss creating a relaxed environment that feels less like traditional networking and more like a place where creatives can have real conversations, find inspiration, and build relationships with people who understand the work.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• Where the idea for Atelier came from
• What the name Atelier means
• Why creative work can sometimes feel isolating
• Who the meetup is designed for
• Why you don’t have to be a professional artist or designer to participate
• What to expect at an Atelier meetup
• How the group combines community, education, workshops, speakers, and conversation
• Why Madison and Vannie see an opportunity to build a stronger creative community across the Gulf Coast
• How Atelier could grow alongside Hatch and the new K1 Center

FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE

Madison Burkhardt
Marketing Coordinator, Baldwin Alliance

Vannie Bohlen
Art Director, JJPR Agency

LEARN MORE

Hatch Fairhope
https://hatchfairhope.com

Hatch Events & Meetups
https://hatchfairhope.com/events

Produced by Tim Scott

Interested in starting a podcast? Learn more at:
https://timscott.me

In this edition of Inside Hatch, we take the mic around to some of the meetups, workshops, and programs bringing entrepreneurs, business leaders, and creatives together across South Alabama.

We stop by WEN South Alabama to hear from local entrepreneurs about mentorship, community, and using technology to grow their businesses. Jenny, founder of Calera, also shares what she learned at Sloss Tech in Birmingham and the value of connecting with other founders and investors.

Then we head over to Lower Alabama AI for a little friendly Pensacola rivalry and a look at what people are learning about AI, before stopping by Marketing for Humans, where David Gibson shares a simple way to answer the question, “What do you do?” in a way that gets people interested in hearing more.

Finally, Hatch Music Accelerator alumnus Ben Kimsal talks about the value of having a clear process and framework for taking a song from an idea through the different stages of development.

In This Episode

• How WEN South Alabama connects and supports female business owners
• The value of building relationships with other founders and entrepreneurs
• What’s happening at the Lower Alabama AI meetup
• How to talk about your business in a way people remember
• Why mentorship and community matter when building something
• How the Hatch Music Accelerator helps artists understand the process behind developing their music

Explore upcoming Hatch events and meetups.

Learn more about Hatch.

Produced by Tim Scott

Interested in starting a podcast? Learn more at timscott.me.

In this special episode of the Hatch Podcast, producer Tim Scott revisits conversations with founders who completed the Hatch Biotech Accelerator and brings together some of the most valuable lessons they shared along the way.

From taking the first step before every answer is clear to navigating fundraising, staying focused through difficult seasons, and finding a community of founders who understand the journey, these conversations offer an honest look at the realities of building a startup.

Chris Danek, founder of Bessel, also explains how an accelerator helps founders prepare for the challenges ahead through strategy, mentorship, investor preparation, and connections with other entrepreneurs.

Applications are now open for the 2027 Hatch Biotech Accelerator cohort.

In This Episode

• Why founders should not wait until everything is figured out before getting started
• The mental and emotional pressure that comes with building a company
• How a clear vision helps founders navigate uncertainty
• Why mentorship, partnerships, and founder community matter
• How the accelerator helps companies prepare for fundraising and investment
• The value of learning from founders at different stages of the startup journey

Featured in This Episode

Chris Danek, Bessel

Marlo Young, New Mindset Consulting and Mentalocity

David Nelson, SpectroTherm

Brayden Gibson, Southern Rooted

Yuan Tian, Vivosphere

Shiva Sharareh, Rekovar

Vipul Kashyap, MedHive.ai

Michelle Scott, Gulf Sterilization

Learn more and apply for the Hatch Biotech Accelerator.

Learn more about Hatch.

Produced by Tim Scott

Interested in starting a podcast? Learn more at timscott.me.

From networking at the Biotech Accelerator Pitch Night to discovering career paths they hadn't previously considered, Cooper and Mackenzie share how the experience challenged them, broadened their perspectives, and changed the way they think about building a future after college.

In this episode:

• How two Auburn students found their way to Hatch
• What it's really like working inside an entrepreneurial ecosystem
• The projects and mentors that made the biggest impact
• Lessons they learned that don't show up in the classroom
• How AI is changing the workplace for today's college students
• Why both interns now see new career opportunities in South Alabama
• Advice for students considering a Hatch internship
  
  

Learn more about Hatch at https://hatchfairhope.com.

Produced by Tim Scott.

Interested in starting a podcast? Learn more at https://timscott.me.

In this episode of the Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, Chris Estes sits down with Music Accelerator alumnus Ben Kimsal to share the story behind his upcoming single, "The Way She Did." Written more than a decade ago, the song sat on the shelf for years before finally finding new life through the Hatch Music Accelerator. 

Ben reflects on what surprised him most about the creative process, from pre-production and recording to post-production and marketing. He explains how having a clear roadmap and experienced mentors helped him approach music with a new level of confidence and purpose.

Whether you're writing your first song or preparing to release your next project, this episode offers practical insight into what it really takes to bring great music across the finish line.

In this episode:

• Why some songs deserve a second chance
• The importance of pre-production before stepping into the studio
• How collaboration and feedback strengthen a song
• Why post-production is a critical part of the creative process
• Developing a marketing strategy before your release
• A practical way artists can use AI to organize their creative ideas
• Standing out when more than 125,000 new songs are released every day
• How the Hatch Music Accelerator provides artists with a complete roadmap from songwriting to release

Learn more and apply at 119collective.hatchfairhope.com.

Learn more about Hatch at hatchfairhope.com.

Produced by Tim Scott

Interested in starting a podcast? Learn more at timscott.me.

Josh Lindsey joins Chris Estes to share the story behind “Alabama Road,” a song born after returning home to Alabama following a year living in Hawaii. What began as a campfire favorite eventually found its way into the Hatch Music Accelerator, where it was transformed into a professionally produced recording.

Josh discusses songwriting, working with producer Dave Denton, developing a release strategy, and why independent artists need more than great songs to build a successful music career.

You’ll also hear an exclusive preview of “Alabama Road” before its official release.

In this episode

• How a year in Hawaii inspired “Alabama Road”
• Why the song sat on the shelf for more than two decades
• Bringing a longtime favorite into the studio
• Working with producer Dave Denton to shape the final arrangement
• How the Hatch Music Accelerator helped develop a release strategy
• Advice for independent artists looking to grow their careers

Listen to “Alabama Road” by Josh Lindsey beginning July 31, 2026, wherever you stream music.

About the Hatch Music Accelerator

The Hatch Music Accelerator helps Alabama artists build sustainable music careers through mentorship, songwriting development, recording, production, branding, marketing, and industry guidance.

Applications for the next Music Accelerator are now open. If you’re an Alabama artist, or you know someone who is, we’d love to hear from you.

Learn more and apply at 119collective.hatchfairhope.com.

Learn more about Hatch at hatchfairhope.com.

Produced by Tim Scott

Interested in starting a podcast? Learn more at timscott.me.

In this episode of Building Biotech in Lower Alabama, Stephanie Glines sits down with Hannah Keel and Brayden Gibson, co-founders of Southern Rooted, to discuss It's Better, an over-the-counter topical pain cream inspired by Hannah's own experience living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

The conversation explores how the pair transformed a personal need into a growing business, what differentiates their product from traditional pain creams, and how the Hatch Biotech Accelerator helped shape their entrepreneurial journey. Hannah and Brayden also share the realities of launching a healthcare startup, from finding the right market to navigating the emotional challenges of building a company from the ground up. 

In this episode:

• How a personal health journey inspired Southern Rooted
• The story behind It's Better topical pain cream
• Why today's consumers are looking for alternatives to traditional pain relief products
• What makes their formulation different
• Lessons learned through the Hatch Biotech Accelerator
• The importance of mentorship and community connections
• Bringing a healthcare product from concept to market
• Advice for aspiring biotech founders

Learn More

Southern Rooted: https://southernrooted.care

In this episode of Building Biotech, Stephanie Glines sits down with Vipul Kashyap, founder of Medhive.ai, to explore how AI can dramatically speed up the development of medical devices by reducing years of manual documentation and streamlining the path from research to patient care.

Vipul shares his unique perspective after decades in artificial intelligence, dating back to the early days of AI research in the 1980s, and explains why he believes AI should enhance human expertise rather than replace it.

They also discuss his experience in the Hatch Biotech Accelerator and what’s next for Medhive.ai.

In this episode:

• Why medical devices can take 5 to 7 years to reach patients

• How AI can reduce development time and costs

• Why documentation is one of healthcare’s biggest bottlenecks

• What artificial intelligence looked like decades before ChatGPT

• Why AI should support physicians instead of replacing them

• The future of medical innovation and regulated industries

Learn more about Medhive.ai:

Website: https://medhive.ai

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medhive-ai

About Building Biotech

Building Biotech is a special series from the Hatch Podcast highlighting founders, researchers, and entrepreneurs building the future of healthcare, biotechnology, and innovation across the Gulf Coast.

In this episode of our Building Biotech in Lower Alabama series, Stephanie Glines sits down with Yuan Tian, founder of Vivosphere, to discuss how his company is developing artificial human tissue models designed to improve drug discovery and regenerative medicine.

Yuan shares his journey from arriving in the United States with two suitcases to earning a Ph.D. at Auburn University and transforming his research into a biotech startup. He explains how Vivosphere’s technology creates 3D human tissue models that mimic how cells behave inside the body, helping researchers evaluate potential therapies more accurately before they reach patients.

The conversation explores the challenges of drug development, the potential of regenerative medicine, the role of artificial intelligence in biotech, and how the Hatch Biotech Accelerator helped prepare Vivosphere for future growth.

In This Episode:

• Yuan’s journey from graduate student to biotech founder
• How Vivosphere creates lab-grown human tissue models
• Improving drug discovery and reducing clinical trial failures
• Potential applications in regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies
• The role of AI in biotech research and drug development
• Auburn University’s role in commercializing the technology
• Lessons learned through the Hatch Biotech Accelerator
• Advice for founders building science-based companies

Notable Quotes:

“Innovation shouldn’t stop at the end of the publication. It should be the beginning of something bigger.”

“We’re trying to bridge the gap between preclinical research and clinical success.”

Learn More

Yuan Tian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuantianauburn/

Vivosphere: https://vivospheres.com

About the Building Biotech Series

Building Biotech in Lower Alabama is a special series from the Hatch Podcast featuring founders, researchers, and innovators developing new technologies and companies across the Gulf Coast region.

In this episode of our Building Biotech in Lower Alabama series, Stephanie Glines sits down with David Nelson, founder of Spectratherm, to discuss REFLO, a technology designed to measure microcirculation using low-power radio frequency signals and temperature response.

David shares the surprising origin story behind the technology, how it could help vascular surgeons evaluate blood flow during critical procedures, and why one surgeon described the approach as “the holy grail” of vascular surgery. He also talks about the journey from university research to startup founder, lessons learned through the Hatch Biotech Accelerator, and what’s next as Spectratherm moves toward clinical testing and FDA approval.  

In This Episode:

• David’s 40-year career in engineering and academia
• The Air Force research project that inspired SpectroTherm
• How REFLO measures blood flow without penetrating the skin
• Potential applications in vascular surgery and patient care
• Moving from research and patents to commercialization
• Lessons from the Hatch Biotech Accelerator
• Advice for first-time founders

Learn More

• David Nelson:  LinkedIn Profile

About the Building Biotech Series

Building Biotech in Lower Alabama is a special series from the Hatch Podcast featuring founders, researchers, and innovators developing new technologies and companies across the Gulf Coast region.

Drawing from her background in counseling, psychology, education, and mental health advocacy, Marlo shares how she created Mentalocity to help people build healthier routines through self-paced modules, daily mindset check-ins, journaling, coaching support, and community.

Stephanie and Marlo discuss:

• Why mental health literacy matters
• The difference between mental health and mental disorders
• How Mentalocity helps bridge the gap between awareness and action
• Using AI tools to build a user-friendly wellness platform
• Marlo’s four-phase model: awareness, action, resilience, and growth
• How the Innovation Portal Tech Academy helped shape the app
• What Marlo gained from the Hatch Biotech Accelerator
• Advice for founders without a traditional technology background

Learn more about New Mindset Consulting:
New Mindset Consulting Website
https://newmindsetllc.com/

Connect with Marlo Young:
Marlo Young LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrs-marlo-young-m-s-0a333a101/

Building Biotech is a special series from the Hatch Podcast featuring founders and innovators from the latest Hatch Biotech Accelerator cohort. To learn more about Hatch, upcoming programs, and future accelerator opportunities, visit:
Hatch Fairhope
https://hatchfairhope.com/

After witnessing the devastating effects of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) on a close friend’s family, Shiva became determined to improve how fragile newborns are monitored inside NICUs. Rekovar is building a platform that combines wearable devices, video/audio monitoring, and multimodal AI analytics to continuously assess infant wellness in real time.

Drawing from decades of experience in biomedical engineering and leadership roles with companies including Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, and Halyard Health, Shiva shares how her background in healthcare innovation led her to launch a mission-driven startup focused on helping clinicians make faster, more informed decisions for vulnerable newborns.

Stephanie and Shiva discuss:

• Why NICU care still relies heavily on subjective scoring systems
• How AI and multimodal monitoring could improve neonatal outcomes
• The challenge of continuously monitoring infant behavior and wellness
• Rekovar’s wearable and non-invasive monitoring technology
• The emotional story that inspired the company
• What comes next as Rekovar prepares for expanded clinical trials and commercialization
• Shiva’s experience inside the Hatch accelerator program

Learn more about Rekovar:
Rekovar Website

Connect with Rekovar on LinkedIn:
Rekovar LinkedIn

Connect with Shiva Sharareh:
Shiva Sharareh LinkedIn

Building Biotech is a special series from the Hatch Podcast featuring founders and innovators from the latest Hatch Biotech Accelerator cohort. To learn more about Hatch, upcoming programs, and future accelerator opportunities, visit:
Hatch Fairhope

For Jeff Butler, it starts with understanding the problem before writing a single line of code.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast, Jeff shares how a self-taught path from building simple websites in the ‘90s turned into a 30-year career working with large-scale systems, infrastructure, machine learning, and AI.

Along the way, the conversation covers everything from early web development and massive business data sets to weather satellites, usability, infrastructure, and the hidden problems most companies don’t realize they have.

Jeff also explains why many businesses rushing into AI are building on top of messy, disconnected data—and why that creates bigger problems down the line.

This episode is a look at how a longtime builder thinks about systems, problem solving, and creating technology that actually works in the real world.

💡 In this episode:

• How Jeff taught himself web development in the early days of the internet
• Why “data is data” across industries and systems
• The satellite project that started with watching the ISS with his son
• Why usability and infrastructure matter more than most people think
• The danger of relying too heavily on third-party tools
• What businesses are getting wrong about AI and dirty data
• Lessons learned from 30 years of building systems

About the Guest

Jeff Butler is a senior DevOps and systems engineer with more than 25 years of experience building cloud infrastructure, large-scale data systems, automation workflows, and AI-powered applications.

His work spans industries including e-commerce, aerospace, biotech, machine learning, and real-time satellite data systems.

Jeff Butler: https://jeffbutler.dev/

Not just time in the studio.
Not just help writing songs.

But a clearer understanding of what it actually takes to move a song forward… from idea to recording to release.

In this episode, we go backstage at Dauphin Street Sound in downtown Mobile, where 11 artists came together for the final showcase.

You’ll hear directly from artists who went through the program… sharing what stood out, what challenged them, and what changed the way they think about their music.

Because for a lot of creatives, the biggest question isn’t how to make something…

It’s what to do with it once it’s done.

🎯 What You’ll Hear:

• Why every artist connects to a different part of the process
• What actually happens between writing a song and releasing it
• Where most musicians get stuck after recording
• How the business side of music changes everything
• And why some songs take years to finally come together

The Hatch Music Accelerator is part of Hatch Fairhope’s growing lineup of programs supporting creators and entrepreneurs along the Gulf Coast.

Producer Tim Scott sits down with Hatch director Keith Glines and the newest team member, Sydney Davis, to talk about what’s happening behind the scenes at Hatch.

Sydney shares how she went from student entrepreneur to becoming the first official team member at Hatch, what drew her to the entrepreneurial path, and what excites her most about being part of the community.

Along the way, the conversation touches on the changing mindset of young entrepreneurs, the rise of the gig economy, and what it looks like to step into opportunity early and build something of your own.

💡 In this episode:

• How Sydney Davis got connected to Hatch
• What stood out during her internship
• Building a business while still in school (Sydney Letters)
• Why more students are choosing entrepreneurship
• The shift toward the gig economy
• What it means to be the “first face” of Hatch
• Early glimpses of what’s coming with the new space

About Sydney:

Sydney Davis is an entrepreneur and graduating student from the University of South Alabama with a focus in entrepreneurship. She is the founder of Sydney Letters, a creative business specializing in signage, murals, and custom design work, along with an Etsy shop featuring faith-based designs and apparel.

🔗 https://sydneyletters.company.site/

She now joins Hatch as its first official team member and community manager.

We’re calling it Inside Hatch — a quick, in-the-room snapshot of what’s been happening across the Hatch community.

Instead of a traditional interview, this one is built from real moments at recent meetups and events — talking with people, capturing conversations, and getting a feel for what’s actually happening on the ground.

In this episode, we drop into:

• The Lower Alabama AI Meetup (LAAI), where builders and business owners are exploring how AI fits into real-world workflows
• The Women’s Entrepreneur Network (WEN), where founders are sharing ideas and supporting each other
• Marketing for Humans, focused on practical strategies and real conversations around growth
• Energy (EOS), helping business owners bring structure and clarity as they scale
• The Hatch Music Accelerator finale at Dauphin Street Sound in Mobile

It’s a mix of voices, perspectives, and momentum — all happening right here in the Hatch ecosystem.

Links:

See upcoming events and meetups:

👉 https://hatchfairhope.com/events

For Endeavor Orthopedics, it starts with solving a problem surgeons face every day.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast, CEO Greg Parranto and CTO Ryan Stafford share how they developed a new approach to treating avulsion fractures—one of the more difficult injuries to repair—and how their technology is already delivering strong clinical results.

Since completing Hatch’s first life sciences cohort, the team has raised funding, performed hundreds of surgeries, and is seeing significantly lower reoperation rates compared to traditional methods.

But beyond the technology, this conversation also explores why they chose to build in Alabama. From the region’s growing infrastructure to its entrepreneurial energy, Greg and Ryan explain what makes this an ideal place to launch and scale a healthcare company.

This episode breaks down the journey from idea to impact, what it takes to build in healthcare, and where Endeavor is headed next.

💡 In this episode:

• What avulsion fractures are and why they’re difficult to treat
• How Endeavor developed a platform that addresses both bone and soft tissue
• The path from early concept to FDA clearance and commercialization
• Early clinical results and what they mean for patients and surgeons
• Raising capital and scaling a healthcare company
• Why Alabama is becoming a place to build in healthcare
• What’s next for Endeavor’s product pipeline

About the Guest

Greg Parranto  is the CEO of Endeavor Orthopedics, where he leads the company’s growth, fundraising, and commercialization efforts. He brings experience from both military service and leadership roles at Johnson & Johnson.

Ryan Stafford is the Chief Technology Officer at Endeavor Orthopedics, where he leads product design, engineering, and development. He has deep experience in orthopedic innovation and medical device design.

🔗 Learn More

Endeavor Orthopedics: https://www.endeavorortho.com/

Follow Endeavor Orthopedics on LinkedIn for updates and clinical insights

For Max Hansen, the issue isn’t the technology—it’s how it’s being used.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast, Max shares what he’s seeing on the ground working with businesses implementing AI in real time. While the tools are powerful, most companies are approaching them the wrong way—treating AI like a shortcut instead of a strategic advantage.

Through his work with local and national clients, Max helps businesses cut through the noise, focus on what actually moves the needle, and build systems that save time without sacrificing quality.

This episode breaks down where AI is falling short, where it’s creating real value, and how to think about using it the right way inside your business.

💡 In this episode:

• Why most AI implementations fail
• The difference between using AI as a shortcut vs. a strategy
• Where AI actually saves time and improves workflow
• Real examples of AI in action inside a business
• Why “spray and pray” AI doesn’t work
• How to identify where AI can move the needle

About the Guest

Max Hansen is a digital marketing and AI strategist who helps businesses improve their online presence and implement practical, results-driven systems.

Through his work, he partners with businesses to build smarter workflows, streamline operations, and apply AI in ways that actually create value.

Max Hansen: https://maxhanseniv.com/

251 SEO: https://251seo.com/

Lead Stack Local: https://leadstacklocal.com/

In this episode of the Hatch Podcast, Stephanie Glines sits down with Adam Chronister and Laura O’Connor to talk about the Legal Technical Assistance Program (Legal TA), a new initiative designed to help entrepreneurs understand the legal foundations of starting and running a business.

The program combines a three-part Legal Learning Series with one-on-one consultations with volunteer lawyers, giving founders the opportunity to learn the fundamentals and then apply that knowledge directly to their own businesses.

Adam shares how early legal decisions can create costly consequences if founders don’t understand the right questions to ask, and why building the right legal foundation from the beginning can help avoid major mistakes down the road.  

The program is designed to give entrepreneurs a comfortable entry point to legal guidance, helping them move from uncertainty to practical action.

Legal Learning Series

Session 1 — Before You Ask the Questions

March 26 | 5:00–6:30 PM

Foundational topics for early-stage entrepreneurs including business formation, contracts, intellectual property, and legal basics for starting strong.

Session 2 — The Questions You Didn’t Know to Ask

April 23 | 8:00–9:30 AM

A more advanced panel discussion for entrepreneurs who have been operating for a while and are facing deeper legal and financial decisions. Led by volunteer attorneys and financial experts.

Session 3 — What’s Next: Growing with the Right Legal Foundation

May 21 | 4:00–6:00 PM

A culmination session featuring a keynote speaker, breakout discussions, and networking with advisors and fellow entrepreneurs.

📍 Mobile Chamber of Commerce

451 Government Street

Mobile, Alabama

The program is free to attend and open to entrepreneurs across Mobile and Baldwin County.

Register for the March 26 Session

https://mobileareachamberofcommerce.growthzoneapp.com/ap/Events/Register/mwFa9xXUmC3Ce

About the episode guests

Adam Chronister

Entrepreneur and business coach helping develop the Legal Technical Assistance program.

Laura O’Connor

Vice President of Community Development and Vice President of the Chamber Foundation at the Mobile Chamber.

For Ben G. Kaiser, it started before sunrise. Recording videos early in the morning before heading to a full-time job, experimenting with gear, ideas, and formats while slowly building momentum.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Around the Table, Tim Scott sits down with Baldwin County creator Ben G. Kaiser, whose YouTube channel has grown to more than 140,000 subscribers and nearly 50 million views across more than 2,000 videos.

Through his work at Kaiser Media Agency, Ben now helps companies and creators turn their ideas into meaningful video and digital content. He also leads the Marketing for Humans meetup at Hatch, bringing local founders, marketers, and creators together to connect, learn, and grow.

This conversation explores the discipline behind long-term content creation, why the first hundred videos matter more than most people realize, and how consistent publishing can transform both a business and a personal brand.

💡 In this episode:

• Why the first 100 videos are really just experimentation
• How consistency—not perfection—builds long-term audience trust
• The mindset shift required to publish content regularly
• Why many people hesitate to post online
• The business behind long-term creator success
• Launching Kaiser Media Agency and helping companies tell their stories through video
• Why in-person creator communities like Marketing for Humans at Hatch are growing

About the Guest

Ben G. Kaiser is a content creator and founder of Kaiser Media Agency, where he helps companies and entrepreneurs turn their expertise into effective video and digital content.

His YouTube channel has grown to more than 140,000 subscribers and nearly 50 million views, with content covering creator tools, video production, and conversations with entrepreneurs and creatives.

Ben also leads the Marketing for Humans meetup at Hatch, bringing together marketers, founders, and creators across Baldwin County to collaborate and share ideas.

Kaiser Media Agency

https://kaisermedia.agency

Ben G. Kaiser YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@BenGKaiser

Marketing for Humans at Hatch

https://hatchfairhope.com/events

Join the conversation online using #30daycontentchallenge

For Forrest Derr, it starts with a simple shift: structure doesn’t slow a company down—it helps it run further and faster.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Founders Series, Forrest shares how nearly three decades inside growing companies led him to become a fractional COO and EOS® Integrator, working alongside founders at critical inflection points.

Through Derr Consulting, Forrest helps visionary leaders move from chaos to clarity—installing structure, defining accountability, and building the foundation required to scale. He also leads ENRG (Entrepreneurial Networking Resource Group) in partnership with Hatch, bringing founders and operators together to collaborate and grow with intention.

This episode explores what founders often miss, why accountability is misunderstood, and how the right operational guardrails create real freedom inside a business.

💡 In this episode:

• The inflection point when founders realize they need operational leadership
• Why accountability—not effort—is the most common blind spot
• The difference between an organizational chart and an accountability chart
• How EOS® helps founders think long-term instead of surviving short-term
• Why building in community accelerates growth
• The dynamic between visionary founders and operational “fixers”

About the Guest

Forrest Derr is the founder of Derr Consulting, where he serves as a fractional Chief Operating Officer and EOS® Integrator for growing companies. He works alongside visionary founders to install structure, clarify ownership, and position businesses for sustainable scale.

He also co-hosts the podcast Fixers & Founders, exploring the relationship between entrepreneurs and the operational leaders who help them execute.

Derr Consulting: https://derrconsulting.com

Fixers & Founders Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@fixersandfounders

ENRG Fairhope: https://hatchfairhope.com/events/enrg-fairhope-chapter

Baldwin County is experiencing record population growth, business expansion, and infrastructure investment. But long-term economic development doesn’t happen by accident.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast, we hear from Lee Lawson, President and CEO of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance, about what intentional growth looks like across Baldwin County, Alabama.

From workforce development and healthcare infrastructure to entrepreneurship and regional planning, Lee shares how economic development leaders are shaping the future of Fairhope, Foley, Daphne, Gulf Shores, and the broader Gulf Coast of South Alabama.

This conversation explores how Baldwin County balances opportunity with responsibility — attracting business investment while preserving quality of life for residents who call the Gulf Coast home.

💡 In this episode:

• What economic development in Baldwin County actually looks like behind the scenes
• Why Baldwin County’s recent population growth didn’t happen overnight
• The role of healthcare infrastructure in attracting businesses and families
• How workforce development impacts long-term economic success in Alabama
• The strategy behind the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance rebrand
• Why Hatch Fairhope became a key part of Baldwin County’s innovation ecosystem
• What’s ahead for business growth on the Gulf Coast

Lee Lawson has spent more than a decade working at the intersection of public leadership, private investment, and regional strategy in South Alabama. As a Baldwin County resident, he approaches economic development with a focus on sustainability, long-term planning, and raising the bar for what growth should look like.

For founders, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and families considering Baldwin County, Alabama, this episode offers insight into how one of the Gulf Coast’s fastest-growing communities is building its future.

Learn more about the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance:
https://baldwinalliance.com

Hatch-a-thon brings together founders, students, technologists, and community members for a two-week build focused on solving real challenges submitted by local organizations. Demo Night is where those ideas come to life.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast, we take you inside Hatch-a-thon Demo Night. Recorded live at The University of South Alabama in Fairhope, you’ll hear directly from judges and builders as they share what they built, why they chose their challenge, and what surprised them along the way.

From automation and AI tools to nonprofit solutions and first-time builds, this episode captures the energy of a room full of people learning, experimenting, and building together.

You’ll also hear from Explorer Track award-winning teams, including two mother-daughter teams and an individual builder whose project stood out among a strong field.

This episode is a snapshot of what Hatch-a-thon is really about: real problems, real people, and ideas moving from concept to prototype.

💡 In this episode:

• What Hatch is and how Hatch-a-thon works
• What judges look for on Demo Night
• How builders chose their challenges
• The role of AI and automation in many projects
• Nonprofit problems and people-first solutions
• What it’s like to build for the first time
• Explorer Track award-winning projects

About Hatch-a-thon

Hatch-a-thon is a two-week build event hosted by Hatch Fairhope, where teams select real challenges submitted by community organizations and develop solutions to present on Demo Night. The event brings together builders of all experience levels to learn, collaborate, and create in a supportive environment.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, host Chris Estes breaks down the often-overlooked but critical role of pre-production in the recording process. From refining arrangements and locking in tempo to clarifying creative direction before studio time begins, pre-production is where strong demos turn into confident, efficient sessions.

Drawing from real studio experiences with Music Accelerator artists Josh Lindsay and Jerica Nicole, Chris explains how intentional preparation saves time, protects your budget, and leads to better performances once the red light turns on.

“You don’t want to be making production calls after a song is already tracked. That costs time, money, and energy — and all of that can be worked out in pre-production.” — Chris Estes

🎧 Pre-Production Essentials Every Independent Artist Should Know:

Preparing with Purpose: Why pre-production brings clarity and creative focus.
Arrangement & Tempo: Making key musical decisions before studio time starts.
Modern Tools & Workflows: Using home studios and AI tools to explore direction early.
Studio Efficiency: How preparation leads to faster sessions and stronger performances.
Avoiding Costly Re-Tracks: Why decisions made early save money later.
Album-Level Thinking: Using pre-production to shape a cohesive body of work.

Whether you’re recording a single, an EP, or a full album, this episode offers practical guidance for artists who want to work smarter, protect their budget, and bring their best ideas into the studio fully formed.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast, we explore how Patifina is redefining how healthcare is delivered by bringing hospital-grade imaging and diagnostics to hospitals, rural communities, disaster response settings, and beyond.

Hosted by Stephanie Glines, the conversation features Damon Burrows, CEO of Patifina, and Chris St. Pierre, who is helping lead commercialization of the platform. Together, they discuss how Patifina combines flexible integrated systems, modular mobile imaging, intelligent networks, AI powered workflows, and secure data platforms to deliver diagnostics that can outperform traditional hospital equipment while expanding access everywhere. 

The episode also highlights how Patifina’s platform unites imaging, diagnostics, artificial intelligence, and financial access into one connected ecosystem designed to strengthen healthcare resilience and equity worldwide. 

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How Patifina delivers hospital-grade imaging in mobile and modular settings
• Why distributed diagnostics can outperform traditional hospital imaging
• What this flexibility means for hospitals, rural clinics, disaster zones, and global care
• How AI and secure data platforms empower patient access and precision workflows
• Why Patifina’s integrated ecosystem is reshaping how care is delivered and financed

Featured Guests

Damon Burrows
CEO, Patifina

Chris St. Pierre
Commercialization Lead, Patifina

Learn More

To learn more about Patifina and its advanced imaging ecosystem, visit patifina.com.

Each episode features honest conversations with founders, creators, and builders working on ideas that are still taking shape — from startups and bioscience to technology and music.

The podcast is connected to Hatch, an innovation hub on the Gulf Coast supporting founders and creators across Lower Alabama, but the stories go beyond any one place.

These are real conversations, with people in the middle of the work.

New episodes weekly.

They all trace their story back to Alabama.

In this episode of the Hatch Podcast Music Accelerator, Hatch producer Tim Scott reaches back into his radio archives to curate rare audio and conversations with artists from different generations and genres, all shaped by the same place and the same foundation.

From northeast Alabama, Randy Owen reflects on growing up in Fort Payne, working the land, and learning early lessons about character and humility that helped shape one of the most successful bands in country music history.

From Montgomery, Jamey Johnson talks candidly about success, pressure, and refocusing on who he was really writing songs for. Jamey scored his own breakthrough hit with “In Color” and wrote major songs recorded by other artists, including “Give It Away,” which became a number-one hit for George Strait.

From Mobile, Jimmy Buffett shares the story behind his duet with Alan Jackson, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” The song went on to spend eight weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and became Alan Jackson’s first pop crossover hit. Jimmy, who passed away in 2023, explains how the collaboration came together not in a studio or a boardroom, but through boats, fishing, and time spent together far from Nashville.

And from Tuskegee, Lionel Richie reflects on longevity, connection, and what it means to stay human across decades in music. Drawing from his experience as a judge on American Idol, Lionel talks about personality, self-awareness, and why talent lasts longer when you don’t lose yourself along the way.

Different eras.
Different sounds.
One foundation.

This episode isn’t about a genre.
It’s about perspective, humility, and stories that travel far beyond Alabama.

That’s what Alabama put in the music.

In this episode of the Hatch Podcast, we’re taking a look back at some of the conversations that shaped 2025. Rather than a highlight reel, this episode offers a snapshot of the kinds of discussions we’ve been having on the show, across business, bioscience, healthcare, development, and the creative economy.

These conversations come from different industries and perspectives, but they share a common thread: people doing thoughtful, often difficult work in the places they’ve chosen to build.

Featured conversations include:

Michael Lynch — CHONEX
Michael shares how CHONEX is using biology and process to turn agricultural waste into something useful, with implications for soil health and sustainable systems. His conversation offers a grounded look at what innovation actually looks like when it’s hands-on and operational.
🔗 https://www.chonex.ag

Chris Harber — Simparo Surgical
Chris talks about identifying inefficiencies in common surgical procedures and rethinking how those procedures can be done more reliably and consistently. The conversation focuses on practical medtech innovation and improving outcomes through better design.
🔗 https://simparosurgical.com

Dr. Grant Zarzour — Sperity Health
Grant discusses prevention, longevity, and why healthcare needs to start long before someone becomes a patient. His perspective reframes health around risk, time, and quality of life rather than reactive treatment.
🔗 https://www.sperityhealth.com

68 Ventures — Around the Table
In a wide-ranging conversation, the team at 68 Ventures reflects on failure, resilience, and what it actually takes to build teams and organizations over the long term. The discussion emphasizes patience, perspective, and learning through experience.
🔗 https://www.68ventures.com

Susan Godwin — Music Accelerator (119 Collective at Hatch)
Susan breaks down music publishing, licensing, and ownership, explaining why so many artists misunderstand how publishing works and why education is critical. Her conversation highlights the importance of protecting creative work and building sustainable careers in the music industry.
🔗 https://119collective.hatchfairhope.com

This episode is designed as an entry point, a way to understand what kinds of conversations happen on the Hatch Podcast and why they matter.

There’s a lot more coming in 2026, and we’re glad you’re here.

For Kai Gray, it starts with a simple belief: you don’t have to be in Silicon Valley to build something that matters.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Founders Series, Kai shares his journey from major tech markets to Fairhope, Alabama, where he’s building both a company and a growing technology community.

As founder and CEO of Motive AI, Kai works directly with businesses to help them make practical, thoughtful use of artificial intelligence. Alongside that work, he also founded Lower Alabama AI, a nonprofit and meetup focused on bringing people together to learn, share, and build around emerging technology on the Gulf Coast.

This episode explores how place, timing, and intention intersect—and why meaningful innovation doesn’t need a major tech hub to take root.

💡In this episode:

• Why building something great doesn’t require a big-city tech hub
• How Fairhope became part of Kai’s story long before the move
• The origins and growth of Lower Alabama AI
• The difference between AI hype and practical adoption
• What it takes for a region to believe it can lead with technology

About the guest

Kai Gray is the founder and CEO of Motive AI, where he helps organizations implement artificial intelligence in practical, business-focused ways. He is also the founder of Lower Alabama AI, a nonprofit focused on education, conversation, and community around technology and AI on the Gulf Coast.

• Motive AI: https://motiveai.ai
• Lower Alabama AI: https://la-ai.io

For Laboratory Director Natalie Siracusa of Green Health Laboratories, the answer begins with forensic science, public safety, and a commitment to unbiased testing. Before stepping into the cannabis world, Natalie spent years in forensic toxicology and clinical laboratory work, even helping generate the national data that guided the USDA as it shaped federal hemp regulations.

In this episode, she shares how her background in casework and chemical analysis prepared her to tackle one of Alabama’s most closely watched scientific challenges. You’ll hear what happens inside a medical cannabis lab most people will never see, why fraud has plagued the testing industry nationwide, and what it means to bring courtroom-level science to a growing field.

Natalie also breaks down the full journey of a cannabis sample, from intake to a defensible lab report, and offers a clear vision for what patient safety should look like five years from now.

💡 In This Episode
• Why forensic science was the foundation for her career
• How the opioid crisis and synthetic cannabinoids shaped her mission
• The early chaos after the Farm Bill and the data that guided the USDA
• Why fraud and bad science still threaten the cannabis lab industry
• What happens inside a medical cannabis lab from sample to report
• How Green Health is hiring and training the next generation of scientists
• Her vision for safe, high-quality patient care across Alabama

Learn more about Green Health Laboratories:
https://www.greenhealthlaboratories.com

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Bioscience Innovation, Chris Harber shares his unlikely journey from working under car hoods to founding Simparo Surgical in Fairhope, Alabama. Partnering with hand surgeon Dr. Jeanne L. DelSignore, Chris turned a persistent surgical challenge into an elegantly simple device that’s transforming thumb CMC reconstruction — cutting procedure times from 90 minutes to under 20, making outcomes more reproducible, and helping patients regain function in as little as six weeks.

You’ll hear how the breakthrough Falcon Suture Clutch technology was born, why Chris chose to build his company right here on the Gulf Coast, and what it really takes to scale a med-tech startup while keeping patient stories at the heart of everything.

“This procedure is essentially… putting an anchor in the base of your index, an anchor in the base of your thumb, and we’re basically zip-tying it… we’ve taken that procedure down to, in some instances, less than 20 minutes.”
— Chris Harber, CEO & Co-Founder of Simparo Surgical

💡 In This Episode
• From auto mechanic to orthopedic product leader — the serendipitous path that led to Simparo Surgical
• The decades-old thumb arthritis problem that finally has an elegantly simple solution
• How the Falcon Suture Clutch enables intraoperative tensioning and more anatomic repair
• Why reproducible, bone-based fixation beats traditional soft-tissue techniques
• Bringing a med-tech company home to Fairhope and proving innovation thrives on the Gulf Coast
• Rapid clinical adoption, patient success stories, and the responsibility of building implantable devices
• Future applications across extremities — from elbow and wrist to foot and ankle
• Building Alabama’s bioscience ecosystem: talent, manufacturing, and quality of life

🔗 Learn more about Simparo Surgical
→ https://www.simparosurgical.com

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Bioscience Innovation, Dr. Rayner shares how breakthroughs really happen inside research labs and why the Gulf Coast is becoming a place where meaningful bioscience work can take root.

From his early career at the CDC and the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute to launching startups like iSeq-Biotechnology, Rayner has spent decades studying some of the most dangerous pathogens on earth. He explains why scientific progress unfolds slowly, how vaccine platforms are developed long before the public hears about them, and what it takes to turn university research into solutions that reach the real world.

You’ll hear candid insights on the challenges of funding, the realities of public perception, and the importance of building the right talent and facilities — especially wet lab space — to keep biotech companies in Alabama. Rayner also shares a lighter side of his story: launching an indoor dog park with his son, a project rooted in family and community.

“Ultimately, I think people get into science because they love science. They enjoy the process of discovery. We're investigators. We do research because we have to kind of do it over and again, and it's different every single day.”
— Dr. Jonathan Rayner

💡 In This Episode

• How emerging viruses are isolated, studied, and understood
• Why “fast” vaccines are built on decades of foundational research
• What broad spectrum antivirals could make possible
• The role of early stage biotech companies in turning discoveries into products
• Why intellectual property and timing matter for university researchers
• How Alabama is building the infrastructure needed for bioscience growth
• The importance of wet lab space for startups across the Gulf Coast
• A look at Rayner’s new venture: an indoor dog park built with his son

🔗 Learn more about iSeq-Biotechnology: https://i-seq.com

That’s exactly what Nic De Castro built — and today LandTrust opens up over 1 million acres of private farms and ranches across 40+ states to everyday hunters, anglers, and outdoor families.

In this episode Nic takes us from the frustration of locked gates in Montana… to the single conversation on a 2017 bear hunt that changed everything… to quitting the big paycheck with a newborn at home… to moving the entire company to Fairhope, Alabama.

“One-month-old baby, no income… five days after launch a seventy-dollar booking came through and we had a five-star review from both sides. That was the ‘okay, maybe this actually works’ moment.”
— Nic De Castro, Founder of LandTrust

💡 In This Episode

• The exact moment the idea was born on a Montana bear hunt
• Why the company name is literally “Land + Trust
• Quitting the big paycheck, launching with a newborn, and the $70 booking that proved it worked
• “Stacked enterprises” — how ranches now make real money from turkey hunters
• Why Bozeman lost its magic and Fairhope won
• The pushback from hunters (and Nic’s straight answer)
• The AI future that turns “That’d be cool to hunt hogs” into a booked trip with one tap

🔗 Links
→ Book your next adventure: https://landtrust.com
→ LandTrust on YouTube & Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@landtrust_hunt

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Around the Table, hosts Keith Glines, Director of Hatch, and Kai Gray, Founder of Motive, sit down with the duo to talk about leadership, risk, and the lessons learned from building and rebuilding on the Gulf Coast.

From their early days in the Marine Corps to leading one of Alabama’s most dynamic development and investment firms, Nathan and Adam share what it takes to make decisions, create culture, and keep moving forward when things get tough.

You’ll hear stories of resilience, humility, and the long game of investing in people — not just businesses. The pair also share insights into their upcoming Chasing Greatness conference, an annual leadership event bringing together voices from across the country to inspire the next generation of founders, builders, and leaders.

“The worst thing you can do is not make a decision. You can’t have paralysis by analysis. When you reach a decision point, you’ve got to decide — and then go forward.”
— Nathan Cox, 68 Ventures

💡 In This Episode

• How military discipline translates into business leadership
• The evolution of 68 Ventures from vertical integration to strategic investment
• Why character and accountability matter more than credentials
• Lessons in risk, resilience, and learning through failure
• What drives their vision for growth across Alabama and the Gulf Coast
• Inside the Chasing Greatness Conference — and how it’s creating a space for bold, purpose-driven leadership

🔗 Learn more about 68 Ventures: 68ventures.com

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, host Chris Estes breaks down the role of live shows in turning passive listeners into lifelong fans. Touring isn’t just about the miles — it’s about creating moments that matter, building real community, and learning what songs truly connect.

“When you take that audience into a live music environment, that’s your moment to really sell them on you as an artist. That’s where a passive listener becomes an active fan.” — Chris Estes

🎸 Touring Takeaways Every Artist Should Know:

• From Passive to Active: Why live shows create true believers.
• Setlist Strategy: How to shape the energy and flow of your show.
• Originals & Covers: Blending your songs to win over new audiences.
• Merch & Meetups: Why post-show connections matter as much as the music.
• Market Building: How to grow regionally before going national.

Chris shares lessons learned from years of managing and mentoring artists—offering a practical roadmap for building your audience, refining your craft, and making your live shows unforgettable.

In this episode, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Grant Zarzour shares how personal experiences reshaped his view of healthcare — from fixing joints in the operating room to helping people avoid the operating room altogether.

After witnessing the challenges of his father’s illness and his son’s early autism diagnosis, Grant founded Sperity Health— a longevity and preventive-medicine company with locations across the U.S. that helps people lower their risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and dementia through data, diagnostics, and personalized care.

From Medicine 3.0 to the power of wearables, AI, and lifestyle science, Grant explains how Sperity Health is changing what modern healthcare looks like — and how Hatch Fairhope is helping innovators like him connect ideas, technology, and community to transform health across the Gulf Coast.

Quote:

“You don’t want dementia. You’d do anything to prevent it — yet every day, you’re making the same choices that lead you there. You’re at a fork in the road.”

🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Sperity Health is redefining longevity and preventive care nationwide
• The personal stories that inspired Grant to launch a new model of medicine
• What Medicine 3.0 means in practice — and how it aligns with ideas from Dr. Peter Attia’s bestselling book Outlive
• How AI and human insight work together to personalize health
• The “CFO on the treadmill” story — and why small wake-up moments can save lives
• How Hatch Fairhope is connecting science, business, and community on the Gulf Coast

🔗 Learn more:
Sperity Health — https://www.sperityhealth.com

What does it really take to stand out as an artist today?

With thousands of songs released every single day, it’s never been easier to share your music — but it’s never been harder to get noticed. In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, host Chris Estes sits down with producer and engineer Tim Scott to talk through the five essential things every up-and-coming artist should know.

🎶 The 5 Pillars Every Artist Should Know:

1. Songwriting — It all starts with the song. Write often, collaborate widely, and stay authentic.
2. Production — Don’t “fix it in the mix.” Make sure the song works before you hit record.
3. Promotion — Tell your story, not just your song. Great content connects people to your music.
4. Consistency — Keep writing, releasing, and engaging. Momentum builds careers.
5. Audience — Nurture your listeners. Every stream, show, and post helps grow your community.

Chris and Tim share real-world lessons from years of producing, recording, and mentoring artists—from co-writing tips and demo prep to building long-term creative habits that last.

“You can’t put lipstick on a pig. The song has to be good — let’s fix it in the song, not in the mix.” — Tim Scott

Born in Alabama’s Black Belt, CHONEX is pioneering regenerative agriculture, improving soil health, and creating a circular farming economy that benefits farmers, the environment, and rural communities. Lynch shares how his faith, humility, and servant leadership turned a “crazy idea” into a biotech success story — one now supported by Hatch’s Biotech Accelerator on the Gulf Coast.

In This Episode

• How CHONEX converts poultry waste into high-value organic fertilizer
• The science of black soldier flies and soil regeneration
• How Alabama’s Black Belt inspired a circular-economy startup
• The connection between soil health, food quality, and community well-being
• CHONEX’s growth from local field trials to national distribution

Featured Guest

Michael Lynch — Founder & CEO, CHONEX
Innovator in sustainable agriculture and bioscience, Lynch leads CHONEX, a company redefining how organic waste can fuel regenerative farming and soil health across the Southeast.

Quote

“The circular economy is real — we’re turning waste into something that benefits nature, the planet, and the people on it.” — Michael Lynch

About The Hatch Podcast

The Hatch Podcast: Bioscience Innovation Stories highlights founders, researchers, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of Alabama and the Gulf Coast — where discovery meets purpose and innovation takes flight.

Produced by Tim Scott for The Hatch Podcast — bioscience innovation stories from the Gulf Coast and beyond.

Links
CHONEX → chonex.ag
Hatch Biotech Accelerator → hatchfairhope.com/programs/biotech
Hatch Fairhope → hatchfairhope.com

Applications close February 2026 — join the next cohort.

In this episode, producer Tim Scott takes you on a journey through the voices that defined generations — from Nat King Cole and Dinah Washington to Hank Williams, Percy Sledge, Randy Owen, and Jimmy Buffett.
At the heart of it all is Tuskegee’s own Lionel Richie, whose unmistakable voice carried Alabama’s soul to the global stage. Hear Lionel in his own words as he reflects on his journey, faith, and what it means to stay grounded in the spotlight.

🎧 Listen to learn:

• How Alabama’s gospel roots shaped its distinct sound
• The Muscle Shoals sessions that changed American soul music
• Lionel Richie’s path from the Commodores to global icon
• Why authenticity is at the heart of every great Alabama artist
• How voices from Fort Payne to Mobile created music that still unites people today

Episode Highlights:

• Nat King Cole’s smooth tone that broke racial barriers in 1950s America
• Dinah Washington’s fiery delivery that earned her the title “Queen of the Blues”
• The raw emotion behind Percy Sledge’s When a Man Loves a Woman
• Lionel Richie’s reflections on faith, love, and purpose
• The rise of Alabama’s country legends and Gulf Coast storytellers

Quotes:

“Some decisions I didn’t make at all — God just took me by the hand and said, ‘Here you go, babes.’” — Lionel Richie
“Our artists don’t hide behind the music. They bring their whole selves into it.” — Tim Scott
“You’ve got to like that person in the mirror. If you have a problem with that person, you’ll have problems the rest of the day.” — Lionel Richie

Produced by: Tim Scott
Executive Producer & Creator: Keith Glines
A production of: Hatch Fairhope
Learn more: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com

Susan, founder of Christian Copyright Solutions and a pioneer in publishing administration, joins host Chris Estes to unpack what every indie songwriter should know about contracts, PROs, and revenue streams — and why protecting your creative work is just as important as creating it.

👉 Apply now for the Hatch Music Accelerator: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The “Protect, Collect, and Promote” framework for managing your music career
• How to handle co-writing splits and ownership percentages early on
• Why registration with ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC matters — and when to do it
• The difference between a songwriter’s share and a publisher’s share
• What to look for (and avoid) in aggregator publishing agreements like TuneCore or DistroKid
• How publishing administrators help collect your royalties worldwide
• Understanding the MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective) and SoundExchange — and what they do for you
• Common contract mistakes indie artists make (and how to avoid them)

Key Episode Highlights:

• “Protect, Collect, Promote” — Susan’s timeless approach to publishing and licensing
• Why indie artists should treat songwriting splits like a handshake deal written down
• The “two sides” of royalties explained: master vs. composition
• The difference between a publisher and a publishing administrator
• Why understanding your agreements protects your long-term income

Quotes:

“Publishing really comes down to three things: protect, collect, and promote.”

“If you’re co-writing, document your splits early. The conversation you skip now can become the argument you have later.”

“The song and the sound recording are two different copyrights — and two different revenue streams.”

“Don’t just check the box and move on. Know what you’re signing, what you’re giving up, and what you’re keeping.”

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, host Chris Estes sits down with Susan to unpack her journey, the evolution of music publishing, and the lessons indie artists need to know about copyright, licensing, and revenue collection.

👉 Apply now for the Hatch Music Accelerator: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How Integrity Music’s Hosanna! tapes sparked a movement in worship publishing
• The founding of Christian Copyright Solutions and the need for simplified blanket licenses
• Why churches and songwriters must understand copyright exemptions—and where they end
• The rise of independent artists and church-based publishing collectives
• International publishing pitfalls: what to know if your songs find an audience overseas
• How fraudulent copyright claims happen—and what policing your catalog really takes
• The importance of having the right administrator to protect your global rights

Key Episode Highlights

• From 70 songs to 4,400: building a catalog from scratch at Integrity Music
• How blanket licensing made it possible for churches to legally perform 20 million songs
• Stories from the “Wild West” of international publishing—like a $10,000 cash payout in Brazil
• Why indie songwriters today have more opportunities than ever—but also more responsibility

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, host Chris Estes and Hatch director Keith Glines dive deep into the art and business of songwriting — the foundation of every music career. From the creative process to the essential business fundamentals, they share how independent artists can refine songs that don’t just get heard, but truly get remembered. You’ll learn why consistency beats chasing one hit, how to use the “two or three sleeps” rule to improve your work, and the business steps that protect your songs and royalties for years to come.

👉 Apply now for the Hatch Music Accelerator: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The Three-Lane System: Development → Curation → Placement
• The “Two or Three Sleeps” Rule for finishing songs
• Business fundamentals: PROs, publishing entities, splits, and monetization
• The Completion Test: How to know when a song is truly finished
• Collaboration strategies: who to co-write with and when to bring in outside voices
• The Live Test: Using audience reaction to refine your songs

Key Episode Highlights:

• [00:00:00] The staggering reality: 119,000 songs uploaded daily
• [00:02:52] Why even great albums usually only have 1–2 standout songs
• [00:03:44] The three lanes every song lives in
• [00:05:27] The 20-year test: writing songs you’ll still love playing decades later
• [00:06:15] Why finished songs often sound nothing like their first drafts
• [00:08:24] Placement lane: what to do with songs that don’t fit your brand
• [00:10:18] Business essentials: PROs, publishing entities, and revenue streams
• [00:13:12] Producer Tim asks: “How do you know when a song is finished?”

The Chris Estes Songwriting Philosophy:

“There’s no bad songs — they’re just not finished.”
The magic happens in that last 10–20% of development, where good songs become great songs.

The Three Critical Tests for Song Completion:

1. The Expression Test — Does it clearly convey your intended message?
2. The Live Test — Does it connect with a live audience?
3. The Community Test — Do trusted collaborators and listeners agree it’s complete?

Episode Quotes:

• “Average songs are ignored. Great songs get attention.”
• “Give it two or three sleeps, then come back to the song with fresh ears.”
• “What’s the last song you heard that made you say, *‘I have to share this’? That’s the mark you should be aiming for.”

Resources and Links:

• Apply now: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com
• Hatch website: hatchfairhope.com
• Instagram: @hatchfairhope

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, we feature Alabama-born hit songwriter Jamey Johnson. Jamey opens up about writing his Grammy-winning song “In Color,” the struggles that fueled That Lonesome Song, and the tough decision to include “High Cost of Living” on the record.

Narrated by Tim Scott — Hatch podcast producer, Alabama native, and 25-year music industry veteran — the episode traces Alabama’s deep songwriting tradition and connects Jamey’s story to the larger history of the state’s music.

You’ll hear about:

• WC Handy, the “Father of the Blues,” born in Florence in 1873.
• Hank Williams Sr.’s Montgomery roots and timeless heartbreak ballads.
• Muscle Shoals writers like Dan Penn, Donnie Fritts, and Arthur Alexander.
• Lionel Richie, Brittany Howard, Jason Isbell, Mac McAnally, Jimmy Buffett, and more.
• And how Jamey Johnson carries this legacy forward with songs that are plainspoken, personal, and true.

👉 To learn more about the Hatch Music Accelerator — and how we’re supporting Alabama music and mentoring new artists — visit 119collective.hatchfairhope.com.

In this very first episode of The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator, host Chris Estes and Hatch director Keith Glines pull back the curtain on a brand-new program designed to help independent artists in Alabama navigate the modern music business. Over 12 weeks, artists will write, collaborate, record, and walk away with a fully produced song — plus the marketing and business tools to sustain a real career in today’s streaming economy.

👉 Apply now for the Hatch Music Accelerator: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why South Alabama is the perfect place for a music + tech ecosystem
• How the Hatch Music Accelerator equips artists from songwriting to release
• A step-by-step look at the 12-week accelerator: collaboration, production, marketing, and business know-how
• Why collaboration is the secret ingredient for great songwriting
• How streaming reshaped the music business — and the new opportunities for indie artists
• How to build momentum and sustainability without signing to a label

Episode highlights:

• [00:01:50] Why the Gulf Coast is the right launchpad for the accelerator
• [00:07:31] The streaming economy: micro-royalties vs. unlimited reach
• [00:11:55] Songwriting camps and the power of collaboration
• [00:15:15] Beyond the song: marketing, content, and building attention
• [00:19:59] Why the accelerator is free — and how to get involved

Resources and links:

• Apply now: 119collective.hatchfairhope.com
• Hatch website: hatchfairhope.com
• Instagram: @hatchfairhope
  
  

About the show:

The Hatch Podcast: Music Accelerator is your inside track on building a music career today. From songwriting and production to distribution and marketing, each episode features the insights, mentors, and real-world tools artists need to turn creativity into momentum.

What You Will Learn

• How Michelle Scott transitioned from a speech pathology career to founding a sterilization company.
• The environmental and efficiency benefits of chlorine dioxide as an alternative to ethylene oxide in medical sterilization.
• The role South Alabama plays as a growing hub for biotech innovation.
• Insights into the challenges and opportunities in the medical device supply chain.
• How Gulf Sterilization is positioning itself for growth in the global and regional markets.

Key Topics Discussed

• The surprising connection between speech pathology and solving medical device sterilization challenges.
• Why ethylene oxide’s carcinogenic nature sparked a need for alternative sterilization methods.
• The advantages of chlorine dioxide: shorter cycles, no harmful emissions, and compatibility with modern medical devices.
• The impact of EPA regulations on the medical device industry and the push for sustainable practices.
• South Alabama’s emerging role in biotech, featuring innovative companies like ChoX, RO, and Isec Biotechnology.
• The significance of the Biotech Innovation Summit and its potential to foster collaboration in the region.

Show Resources and Links

• Gulf Sterilization Website: gulfsterilization.com
• LinkedIn: Connect with Michelle Scott or Gulf Sterilization
• Hatch Fairhope: Learn more about the podcast and upcoming events at hatchfairhope.com
• Bio Alabama Biotech Innovation Summit: Explore details about this inaugural event fostering biotech collaboration in South Alabama at bioalabama.com
• EPA Ruling on Ethylene Oxide: Read about the 2019 and 2023 EPA regulations on ethylene oxide emissions at epa.gov

Key Quotes

• “It seems to be a big leap, but in the end, it really is about solving problems and providing the best outcomes for patients.” – Michelle Scott
• “Chlorine dioxide offers shorter cycle times, clean emissions, and the ability to sterilize at ambient temperature, making it ideal for modern medical devices with electronics.” – Michelle Scott
• “I think people will be surprised to learn about the innovation that’s happening right here in South Alabama.” – Michelle Scott

Conclusion

Michelle Scott’s journey from speech pathology to founding Gulf Sterilization is a testament to the power of innovation and problem-solving in healthcare. By addressing critical gaps in the medical device supply chain and prioritizing sustainability, Gulf Sterilization is paving the way for safer patient care and a healthier environment. This episode also highlights South Alabama’s growing role as a biotech hub, with events like the Biotech Innovation Summit fostering collaboration and growth. Tune in to discover how one entrepreneur’s vision is transforming an industry and inspiring a region.

What You Will Learn  

• How Alabama Power is driving tech-based economic development  
• The role of corporate partnerships in accelerating startup success  
• Practical advice for energy tech founders partnering with large corporations

Key Topics Discussed  

• The impact of the Techstars Alabama Energy Tech Accelerator on founders and job creation  
• Success stories of startups like AIOps, ShipShape AI, and HD Data  
• Strategies for expanding innovation to rural Alabama communities  
• The importance of customer-focused innovation for startup success

Show Resources and Links  

• Hatch Fairhope Website: https://hatchfairhope.com/  
• Techstars Alabama Energy Tech Accelerator: https://www.techstars.com/accelerators/alabama-energytech  
• Alabama Power Innovation: https://www.alabamapower.com/  
• Biotech Innovation Summit Details: https://hatchfairhope.com/events/

Sponsor Spotlight  

• C2 Wealth Strategies: Wes Cody and his team at C2 Wealth Strategies provide personalized financial planning to help you achieve financial freedom. https://c2wealth.com/  
• Barranco and Associates: Johnny Barranco offers holistic accounting and financial consulting to align your finances with your long-term goals. https://barrancoandassociates.com/  
• Content Fresh: Content Fresh transforms your social media presence with strategies that drive massive growth and engagement. https://contentfresh.com/  
• Roadmap for Growth: Chris Francis and Rick Miller’s online course helps small service businesses scale, build teams, and create lasting systems. https://treebusiness.com/

Quotes  

• “We’re not just focused on internal innovation, but tech-based economic development for the state of Alabama.” – Charles Jackson  
• “You either participate in innovation, or innovation will happen to you.” – Charles Jackson  
• “Spend time knowing your customers and responding to their needs, not just your own knowledge base.” – Charles Jackson

Conclusion
In this episode, Charles Jackson reveals how Alabama Power is fueling innovation and economic growth through strategic partnerships and the Techstars Alabama Energy Tech Accelerator. From supporting cutting-edge startups to expanding innovation into rural communities, his insights highlight the power of collaboration and customer-focused strategies. Tune in to learn how Alabama is becoming a hub for tech innovation, and share this episode with aspiring founders or anyone interested in the future of energy tech.  

What You Will Learn  

• How innovative apprenticeships are connecting local talent with high-demand industries.  
• The role of data-driven strategies in workforce development.  
• Why diversification is key to economic stability in Baldwin County.  
• Emerging opportunities in biotech and life sciences in South Alabama.  
• Practical steps for students to explore and prepare for rewarding careers locally.

Key Topics Discussed  

• The "golden age" of economic growth in South Alabama and the challenges of meeting job demands.  
• Coastal Alabama Community College’s role in fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems with Hatch Fairhope.  
• The impact of diversification on stabilizing Baldwin County’s economy post-COVID.  
• Labor market trends, including the retirement of baby boomers and skill gaps in male-dominated fields.  
• The upcoming Biotech Innovation Summit and its significance for emerging industries.  
• How programs like Baldwin Prep are preparing students for real-world careers.

Show Resources and Links  

• Hatch Fairhope: hatchfairhope.com  
• Coastal Alabama Community College: coastalalabama.edu  
• Bio Alabama: bioalabama.com  
• Skills for Success Program: alabama.gov/skills-for-success

Notable Quotes  

• "As a community, you’re either growing or you’re dying. There’s not a lot of communities just maintaining status quo." – Dr. Josh Duplantis  
• "Hospitality and tourism will continue to be the goose that lays the golden egg, but bringing in industries that make diversification possible brings stability." – Dr. Josh Duplantis  
• "Collaboration is going to help our businesses, government entities, and colleges solve the talent challenges that are coming." – Dr. Josh Duplantis

Dr. Josh Duplantis paints an inspiring picture of South Alabama’s economic transformation, emphasizing the power of collaboration, education, and diversification. From apprenticeships to biotech innovation, Coastal Alabama Community College is at the forefront of preparing a skilled workforce for a dynamic future. Whether you’re a student, educator, or industry leader, this episode offers actionable insights into building a thriving regional economy. Don’t miss the Biotech Innovation Summit to see these ideas in action and join the conversation shaping South Alabama’s future.

In this episode of The Hatch Podcast, part of our Medical Innovation Series (Season 1), we explore cutting-edge advancements in orthopedic surgery with Dr. Dan Matthews, an accomplished surgeon, Air Force veteran, and medical entrepreneur. Dr. Matthews discusses the development of the MACB Introducer—a revolutionary device that reduces opioid use and accelerates recovery for knee replacement patients.

Through candid insights into his career and the challenges of medical entrepreneurship, Dr. Matthews explains how innovation, patient-centered solutions, and determination can transform healthcare. Whether you're in the medical field or simply interested in breakthroughs that enhance lives, this episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of technology and care.

What You’ll Learn:

• How the opioid crisis spurred Dr. Matthews’ medical innovation.
• The benefits of the MACB Introducer in knee replacement surgeries.
• Insights into navigating medical entrepreneurship.
• The role of robotics, AI, and innovation in healthcare’s future.

Quotes:

• “Innovation often starts with identifying a need and having the courage to pursue a solution.” – Dr. Dan Matthews
• “Opioids used to be the standard for post-surgical pain management, but we’ve proven that’s no longer necessary.” – Dr. Dan Matthews
• “AI and robotics have a role in healthcare, but nothing replaces the human touch and expertise.” – Dr. Dan Matthews

Sources and Links:

• Learn more about the MACB Introducer: MACB Solutions
• Dr. Matthews’ orthopedic practice: Alabama Orthopedic Sports Medicine
• Hatch Fairhope: HatchFairhope.com

Conclusion:
Dr. Dan Matthews exemplifies the spirit of innovation, turning challenges into opportunities to enhance patient care. His story offers valuable lessons for aspiring medical entrepreneurs and highlights the power of collaboration and persistence in bringing impactful solutions to life. Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes where innovation takes center stage.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The Science Behind DNA Nanobots: How DNA is used to build nanoscale devices for targeted drug delivery.
2. Game-Changing Innovations: Why non-viral gene therapy is the future of medicine.
3. Overcoming Challenges: Lessons learned in transitioning a biotech startup from idea to execution.
4. Entrepreneurial Advice: Chris’s tips on simplifying your story and building impactful partnerships.

Quotes:

• "We consider ourselves the FedEx for pharmaceuticals, delivering medicine exactly where it needs to go."
• "Our nanotechnology approach is like a rocket ship—precisely targeted and consistent in design."
• "Simplify the story. Less is more when it comes to explaining innovation."

Sources and Links:

• Learn more about DNA Nanobots: www.dnanobots.com
• Hatch Fairhope: www.hatchfairhope.com
• Learn about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Cure Duchenne
• Explore DNA nanotechnology: Research by Dr. Carlos Castro at Ohio State University.

Conclusion:

Chris Lucas and his team at DNA Nanobots are revolutionizing gene therapy with non-viral, targeted solutions. Their innovative approach promises to reduce costs, improve patient outcomes, and make gene therapy accessible for rare diseases and beyond. Stay tuned for updates as they continue to break new ground in biotech innovation.