{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Downshift With Tonnika","title":"Boobs, Business & Building Culture That Lasts | Benjie Burris & Callie Johnson - Ep 15","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2474,"description":"In this crossover episode, Tonnika Haynes partners with Mike Allen and Confessions of a Shop Owner for a special preview of the upcoming ASTA Expo in Raleigh, NC this September. Together, they’re joined by ASTA Board Member and shop owner Benjie Burris, along with his daughter Callie Johnson, ASTA’s new Membership & Events Manager, to break down what makes the Expo such a standout event and how strong shop culture creates lasting success—both in business and beyond.The conversation explores the importance of showing up for your local community, building real and authentic relationships, and how consistent involvement and giving back have fueled long-term growth and meaningful connections. They also share firsthand experiences from past ASTA Expos, highlighting the unique, inclusive atmosphere and the way real conversations at the event can shape both careers and lives.And yes—you’ll also hear the story of how Benjie met his wife. Let’s just say it’s one of those stories you won’t see coming.Learn more about the ASTA Expo and how you can be there HERETimestamps:00:00 The funniest icebreaker ever (yes, fake boobs are involved)00:53 Live from Fueling Connections 2026 – ASTA at UTI Mooresville02:22 Audio chaos: Why your own tools matter (and how NOT to record a podcast)04:10 The rise of Downshift and the weirdness of being told “I listen to your podcast!”05:03 Social media hacks: Engagement, trolls, and managing the comment chaos09:19 A blueprint for a family-run business culture that actually works10:29 Turning community support into real shop growth (and why service matters)13:42 Small steps, big progress: Building a shop “patch by patch”14:42 The real reason community work succeeds (hint: It can’t be faked)18:25 Real talk on supporting schools, teachers, and being boots-on-the-ground22:22 Dealing with “big city” demands and setting shop boundaries23:46 ASTA’s new Membership & Events Manager shares social media tips26:53 The ASTA Expo: Networking, parties, and the...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/RqLvAXD6t3OmHHS9ZFHGPTGVrggjn4BeYj1DvroAUC4/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8yNzBj/NmUwMzMxNDk0NTIz/OTlhM2UyNjY5ZDM5/ZmM0NC5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}