Word of Mouth Audio Podcast

017. Rick Hartgrove: A Life in Color

On this episode of the Word of Mouth Podcast, Ken Lewis sits down with industry veteran Rick Hartgrove to explore a lifetime spent in the world of printing, scanning, and color. From his father’s days as a lithographer to his own start in the Air Force and eventual mastery of color reproduction, Rick shares stories of evolving technology and the artistry behind it.
He takes us inside the transition from massive scanners and darkroom proofs to digital presses and Photoshop, offering insights on precision, mentorship, and the puzzle of making images match reality. Along the way, Rick reflects on the family legacy that shaped his path and his hopes of helping his daughter grow her own creative business.
If you’ve ever been curious about the hidden art of color correction, or what it’s like to witness an industry transform from film and darkrooms to digital perfection, this episode is a rare insider’s perspective.

016. Jessica Duce: Designing Spaces That Connect People

On this episode of Word of Mouth, we sit down with Houston-based interior designer Jessica Duce, founder of J. Duce Design and leader in the short-term luxury rental market. Jessica shares how she discovered her passion for vacation rental design, building unforgettable experiences for guests while delivering strong returns for homeowners.
From Oregon’s coast to Texas ranches and even a Green Bay Packers–themed getaway, Jessica has transformed properties across the country with her data-driven, guest-focused approach. We dive into her process, including how she blends design with research, collaborates with owners and brands, and curates spaces that feel welcoming, memorable, and profitable.
Jessica also opens up about launching the Vacation Rental Design Collective, her passion for collaboration, and why curating authentic experiences matters more than kitschy décor. And yes—we even touch on her love of pickleball.

015. Lights, Lenses, Action: Inside the World of Chase Morales

In this episode of The Word of Mouth Podcast, we sit down with filmmaker and cinematographer Chase Morales—a creative force we’re lucky to call both a collaborator and a friend. Chase shares his journey from an ice cream shop job to eight years in the filmmaking industry, carving out a niche in outdoor, sports, and impactful storytelling projects.
We explore the balance between passion and paying the bills, the importance of pre-production, and how collaboration can elevate a project from good to unforgettable. Chase offers behind-the-scenes insight into award-winning commercial work, the artistry of lighting, and the logistics of creating cinematic magic—from rain machines to virtual production LED walls.

014. Melissa and Addy: Designing Stories, One Showroom at a Time

What does it take to design a 100,000-square-foot showroom that feels like home, sparks emotion, and sells a lifestyle—not just furniture? In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Way and Addison Gant, two powerhouse showroom designers behind the visual storytelling at Legacy Classic and Craftmaster Furniture.
Melissa and Addy take us behind the curtain of showroom design, where every layout, scent, texture, and memory point is crafted with intention. From tight budgets to tight deadlines, from mood boards to market week, they share how they create immersive, ever-evolving spaces that bring products—and brands—to life.
Whether you're in design, marketing, or just love a good creative process story, this episode offers inspiration, insight, and a few laughs along the way.

013. Ray Langhammer; Designing a Life You Love

From a bold childhood dream to a life shaped by design, Ray Langhammer’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Originally from Missouri and later immersed in the glamour of coastal California, Ray shares how he manifested a multi-home lifestyle brand, collaborated with top artisans, and ultimately brought his creative spark to High Point, North Carolina. In this episode, Ray unpacks what it truly means to be a lifestyle designer—where interior design meets intuition, joy, fashion, and storytelling.
You’ll hear about his early influences, a dream log home project in Colorado (complete with a doomsday bunker!), and his role in transforming a 150,000 sq ft factory into a creative hub. Whether you’re a design student, a brand builder, or someone dreaming big from a small town, Ray’s story is a reminder that it’s never just about the space—it’s about how you live in it.

012. Shann Ferriera; Paint, Purpose & Permission: The World of Shandyland

In this vibrant and heartfelt episode of the Word of Mouth Podcast, we sit down with Shann Ferreira—educator, artist, and founder of Shandyland Creative. From face painting at festivals to intuitive body art that empowers and heals, Shann shares her creative evolution and how she balances being a professor, a painter, and a business owner. We explore her inspiring approach to education, her belief in energy and intuition, and how her work builds community through experience—not things. Whether you're a student, a fellow artist, or someone searching for their creative spark, Shann’s story is a masterclass in following passion with purpose.

011. Logan Floyd on Creativity, Collaboration, and Coming Into His Own

In this special episode of the Word of Mouth podcast, we turn the mic toward someone usually behind it—Logan Floyd. As the podcast’s producer, sound engineer, cinematographer, and editor, Logan has helped shape every episode from behind the scenes. But today, we shine a light on his story.
Logan shares how he moved from grip work to creative leadership, the evolution of his artistic voice, and the power of surrounding yourself with other creatives. With humor, humility, and insight, he reflects on storytelling, imposter syndrome, dream projects, and how one shot can stick with you for weeks. If you've ever questioned your path, wondered if you were creative enough, or needed a reminder to just start—this one’s for you.

010. Laura Mensch & Gina Hicks; Designing Boldly, Living Fully: The Vivid Interiors Way

In this vibrant episode, host Ken Lewis sits down with Laura Mensch and Gina Hicks of Vivid Interiors—a dynamic design duo whose fearless creativity, deep collaboration, and joyful spirit have transformed homes, showrooms, and lives across North Carolina. They share the story of how Vivid was born from a dining room brainstorm, what it means to design with heart, and how they blend boldness with function to create truly personal spaces. From high-stakes wallpaper gambles to founding Women of Design and even roller derby, Laura and Gina prove that interior design is as much about courage and connection as it is about color palettes.

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.