Inside Matthews

Author: Jim Taylor

Welcome to Inside Matthews, the podcast that brings you closer to the people, places, and organizations that make Matthews the vibrant town it is today. Hosted by Jim Taylor, former four-term Mayor, longtime Commissioner, and devoted champion of the community, this show pulls back the curtain on life in Matthews, from its small-town roots to its exciting future. Jim knows Matthews inside and out, not just from the Boardroom or the Mayors chair, but from years of listening, serving, and celebrating alongside his neighbors. With his trademark blend of passion, humor, and down-to-earth storytelling, Jim guides conversations that highlight what makes Matthews special, whether its a beloved local tradition, a thriving business, or the stories of everyday residents shaping the towns future. Each episode, youll discover insights you wont find anywhere else: how Matthews has grown from a cotton and railroad town into a destination all its own, and what lies ahead for this thriving community. Its about connection, pride, and keeping everyone in the loop. Whether youve lived here all your life, just moved in, or simply love the charm of small-town stories with big heart, Inside Matthews will make you feel right at home. Tune in, join the conversation, and experience Matthews, from the inside, out.
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Language: en

Genres: News, News Commentary, Society & Culture

Contact email: Get it

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iTunes ID: Get it

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Inside Matthews: Building Community Through Food, Friendship & Local Business
Episode 3
Friday, 3 October, 2025

In this episode of Inside Matthews, host Jim Taylor welcomes three downtown entrepreneurs who’ve helped transform Matthews’ food and nightlife scene: Adam Reed of Sante, Bob Klein of Stumptown Station, and Brandon Mills of The Portrait Gallery. Adam shares his journey from New York to Matthews, taking over a restaurant and building it into a cornerstone of the community for nearly three decades. Bob and Brandon tell their story of friendship, long hours, and taking a leap of faith to create Stumptown Station, while Brandon reflects on his path from corporate restaurant leadership to small-town business ownership. Together, the trio paint a vivid picture of how downtown Matthews has changed, shifting from quiet streets to a vibrant destination filled with dining, music, and culture. They highlight the power of collaboration, noting that restaurants and bars thrive when they work together rather than compete, drawing more people to Main Street and creating the walkable, community-focused energy Matthews is known for today. The conversation also touches on challenges: parking and traffic, the decline of once-popular community initiatives like Red Brick Partnership, and the need for visionary leadership to sustain growth without losing small-town character. Still, the optimism is clear: more residents downtown, a supportive network of business owners, and a shared belief that “a rising tide lifts all boats.” This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the grit, creativity, and community spirit fueling Matthews’ local businesses, perfect for anyone curious about how small-town charm evolves while keeping its heart.