Thank you for saying yes. We're honored that you'll be joining us as a guest on the Lamplighter Podcast—a video/audio interview series celebrating the people whose gifts quietly strengthen our communities and bring light into the lives of others.
Season One will feature 50 conversations with individuals from all walks of life—teachers, gardeners, physicians, artists, clergy, mechanics, beekeepers, caregivers, first responders, craftspeople, and many others. While every guest's story is unique, each shares a common thread: they have discovered a gift, nurtured it over time, and now use it to serve others.
The podcast is built on a simple idea: a healthy community resembles a village. No one person possesses every gift. Instead, each of us carries something unique that, when shared, helps meet the needs of someone else. Together, those gifts weave a stronger, kinder, and more resilient community.
Your story is an important part of that village.
Whether your work has touched one family or thousands of people, we believe your experiences have the power to encourage others, preserve a piece of Appalachian life, and remind listeners that ordinary people often carry extraordinary gifts.
This page contains everything you'll need before your interview. Simply complete each step below and you'll be fully prepared for your interview. There are no additional forms, separate links, or follow-up emails required.
Step 1 — Reserve Your Interview Time
Please choose the interview time that works best for your schedule using the calendar below.
Interview sessions are available throughout October, November, and December.
If none of the available times work for your schedule, please contact Michael and we'll try to find another option.
Please plan to spend approximately 90 minutes in downtown Morristown.
Your visit will generally include:
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Time to settle in and get comfortable
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Microphone/camera checks
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Approximately 30–45 minute interview
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Time afterward to wrap up before heading home
Step 2 — Complete Your Guest Questionnaire
Please complete the guest questionnaire below.
The information you provide helps us prepare your introduction and ensures everything is ready before you arrive.
Step 3 — Preparing for Your Conversation
Over the coming months, please spend a little time reflecting on your journey.
Think about:
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The gifts you've been given
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How those gifts have been used to serve others
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Moments that shaped your life
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People who influenced you
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Challenges you've overcome
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Lessons you've learned
Don't worry about preparing perfect answers. This isn't a speech. It's simply a conversation.
Childhood & Important Photos
If you have childhood photographs—or photos from meaningful seasons of your life—we'd love to include them in your episode.
Please email them before your interview to:
michael@lamplightermediaco.com
Photos taken with your phone are also acceptable.
Step 4 — Planning Your Visit
Studio Location: The Lamplighter Studio is located in downtown Morristown, TN.
Recommended Parking: We recommend parking in the public parking deck located at: 225 W. Main St. Morristown, TN
This parking deck opens directly onto the second-story sidewalk along Main Street.
When you arrive, please call:
865-803-9107
Michael will meet you at the parking area and escort you to the studio.
Please note:
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There is no elevator.
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The studio is not wheelchair accessible.
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Restrooms and changing areas are available inside.
Step 5 — What to Expect
One of our highest priorities is creating an environment where you feel comfortable.
Your visit will generally look like this:
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Arrive and get settled
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Change clothes, if you'd like
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Freshen up
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Camera and audio tests
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Complete a sound check
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Begin recording when you're comfortable
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Wrap up after the conversation
The conversation itself generally lasts 30–45 minutes, though we always allow extra time so the conversation can unfold naturally.
Step 6 — What to Wear
Wear something that feels like you.
You don't need to dress formally unless that's who you are.
We recommend:
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Earth tones and natural colors
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Avoid bright neon colors
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Avoid very small stripes or busy patterns
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Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident
Step 6 — Hair & Makeup
Professional hair and makeup services can be arranged if you'd like them.
If you're interested, please let Michael in advance so arrangements can be made.
This service is available for a fee.
Step 7 — Before We Begin
Almost every guest tells us they're nervous.
Almost every guest also says afterward: "That was much easier than I expected."
Please remember:
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This isn't an interview you need to study for.
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There are no wrong answers.
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We're simply having a conversation.
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Silence is okay.
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You can pause.
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You can restart an answer.
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We can edit mistakes.
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Emotion is welcome.
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Authenticity matters far more than perfection.
Our hope is that you leave feeling seen, heard, and proud of the story you've shared.
Step 6 — After Your Interview
Your episode will be professionally edited before release.
Season One of The Lamplighter Podcast will begin releasing throughout 2027.
When your episode is published, we'll let you know so you can watch, listen, and share it with your family, friends, and community.
We encourage every guest to share their episode after it's released so these stories can reach as many people as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I'm nervous. Is that normal?
A: Absolutely. Nearly every guest feels nervous before recording.
Q: What if I mess up?
A: That's completely normal. We can stop, restart, or edit anything that needs to be cleaned up.
Q: Can we start over if I don't like an answer?
A: Absolutely.
Q: Will the episode be edited?
A: Yes. Every episode is professionally edited.
Q: Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the studio.
Q: Can I bring photographs?
A: Absolutely. Please email childhood or meaningful life photographs before your interview.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes. We recommend the parking deck at 225 W. Main Street.
Q: Is the studio wheelchair accessible?
A: Unfortunately, no. The studio is located on the third floor and there is no elevator.
Q: Will there be food?
A: No food will be provided, but bottled water will be available.
Q: Are restrooms available?
A: Yes. Restrooms and changing areas are available inside the studio