This Episode’s Guest:

Gary Bowen is a U.S. Air Force veteran, local entrepreneur, and the face behind Bowen Optical in Hendersonville, North Carolina. After serving his country, Gary turned his precision and attention to detail toward helping others see the world clearly—literally. With decades of experience as a master optician, he’s known for crafting custom lenses, offering personalized guidance, and going above and beyond for every client. Whether you’re looking for specialized eyewear for sports, low-vision solutions, or just the perfect pair of frames, Gary brings a combination of expertise, heart, and dedication that makes every visit memorable.

👓 Bowen Optical is located at 176 Four Seasons Blvd, Hendersonville, NC 28792. bowenoptical.com

This Episodes Musical Highlight:

Jennifer Alvarado is a multi-award-winning singer-songwriter from Hickory, North Carolina, blending heartfelt country storytelling with the raw honesty of indie pop and alternative rock. Overcoming bullying, performance anxiety, and a nontraditional path that included a degree in Political Science and work as an Intellectual Property Paralegal, Jennifer reclaimed her voice through music and faith. She now performs over 200 shows a year—including frequent gigs in Henderson County—and uses her platform to inspire and uplift, supporting local and national causes like Celebrate Recovery, prison ministry, and women’s recovery programs. Jennifer’s fearless approach to music and life proves that authenticity, resilience, and passion always find a stage.

🎵 You can listen to Jennifer Alvarado’s music on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Bandcamp, or visit her website at jenniferalvarado.com for tour dates and more.

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