Lookout BNI

07/16/2026

🎤 Today's BNI Speaker Spotlight 🎤

Our first speaker was Austin Schlangen with Riverbend Renovations.

Austin shared that Riverbend Renovations is built on one simple principle: treat every customer with respect. His team specializes in full-scale home remodeling, with a strong focus on beautiful bathroom renovations that elevate both the look and value of a home.

What sets Riverbend apart is their attention to detail. From using laser levels for precision to properly setting every tile and installing custom showers, Austin believes it's the little things that separate a good remodel from a great one.

A great referral for Austin is anyone considering a kitchen or bathroom remodel or looking to update an older home with quality craftsmanship.

Our second speaker was Mona with The Grout Medic.

Mona shared that before joining The Grout Medic she worked as a control engineer, so it's no surprise she has an eye for details. Her team specializes in repairing cracked grout, replacing damaged caulk, restoring tile, steam cleaning, and even replacing subflooring and installing new tile when needed.

One tip she shared was that caulk should be inspected and replaced periodically to help prevent water damage before it becomes a much bigger repair.

A great referral for Mona is anyone whose shower has cracked grout, discolored caulk, loose tile, or a bathroom that's beginning to show its age.

This week's theme couldn't have been planned any better. Austin builds beautiful bathrooms, and Mona helps keep them looking that way for years to come. One creates the dream bathroom, while the other helps protect the investment after it's finished.

And let's be honest... if your grout is changing colors on its own, it's probably trying to tell you something. 😄

Let's keep our eyes and ears open this week for referrals for Austin and Mona!

07/13/2026

Morning all. Ben Robison, Scenic City Handyman, https://www.thesceniccityhandyman.com/, is hiring. His company is growing and needs our help. If you know of someone who is dependable, handy with tools, knows how to do home repairs and looking to work with a great company, please have them reach out to Ben. Have them call Ben, Scenic City Handyman, (423) 401-0523.

Serving the Chattanooga, TN areaFast, Reliable Handyman Services You Can Count OnFrom small repairs to big projects, we’re your trusted teamRequest a Quote Our Handyman Services RepairsWe repair wear and damage with fast, dependable repairs to restore normal life for you or your tenants. Maintenan...

07/09/2026

🎤 Today's BNI Speaker Spotlight: Aaron Nunley and Brandon Tankersley.

🌳Our first speaker was Aaron Nunley with On Call Tree Service. 🌳

Aaron shared that one of the things he enjoys most about the tree industry is helping people during stressful situations. Whether it's storm damage, a hazardous tree, or routine maintenance, his team is there to protect homes, businesses, and the people around them.

He also shared a few signs that a tree may need professional attention. Dead branches, mushrooms or fungus around the base, excessive vines, and dead limbs can all point to a tree that may no longer be healthy. One important reminder—if a dead tree on your property falls onto your neighbor's house, it could become your responsibility.

A great referral for Aaron is any homeowner, property manager, or business owner with trees that haven't been inspected in a while. Trees don't usually cause problems overnight. They give warning signs first—the trick is calling Aaron before one of those warning signs becomes a very expensive landscaping decision.

🚚📦Our second speaker was Brandon Tankersley with Southeast Moving & Storage. 🚚📦

Brandon shared that Southeast Moving & Storage has been helping families and businesses relocate for over 20 years. Their company has built a strong reputation by providing reliable service, experienced crews, and transparent pricing.

One thing that stood out was the difference between binding and non-binding estimates. A binding estimate provides a guaranteed price before moving day, while a non-binding estimate can change based on the actual time or services required. Understanding the difference helps eliminate surprises when it's time to settle the bill.

Whether someone is moving across town or across the country, Brandon and his team help make the process as smooth as possible. A great referral is anyone planning a residential move, relocating a business, or needing secure storage during a transition.

This week's theme seemed to be protecting what you've worked hard to build. Aaron helps protect homes by preventing tree problems before they become expensive emergencies. Brandon helps protect families' belongings by making one of life's biggest transitions less stressful. Whether it's a towering oak or a house full of boxes, having the right professional on your side can make all the difference.

Also, congratulations to Austin and Zach on the birth of the baby boy and girl. Congratulations guys!

As always, let's keep our eyes and ears open for referrals for Aaron and Brandon this week!

07/04/2026

Here's to liberty, opportunity and the enduring American spirit. Have a safe and memorable Fourth of July. Happy 4th of July 🙏🇺🇸

06/26/2026

🎤 Today's BNI Speaker Spotlight🎤

Our first speaker today was Michele Coffman with Coffman & McColpin.

Michele shared a powerful story that reminded us why estate planning isn't just about paperwork, it's about protecting the people we love. She told of a husband who developed Alzheimer's later in life, only to have circumstances leave his family in a difficult legal and financial situation that proper planning could have helped prevent.

While every family's story is different, the takeaway was the same: don't wait until it's too late. Whether it's creating a will, establishing a trust, assigning powers of attorney, or putting the right documents in place, planning today can spare your loved ones unnecessary stress tomorrow.

A great referral for Michele is anyone who has recently had children, purchased a home, started a business, retired, or simply hasn't updated their estate plan in years. If you've been saying, "I really need to get around to that," now is the time.

🎤Our second speaker was our very own Lynn Hubbard with Mary Kay! 🎤

Lynn is one of the founding members of our Lookout BNI Chapter and has been part of our group for 30 years! She shared valuable reminders about protecting our skin, especially during these hot summer months.

The biggest takeaway? Don't skimp on sunscreen. An SPF of at least 30 (or even 50), combined with hats, sunglasses, protective clothing, and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day, can go a long way toward reducing the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.

Anyone who knows Lynn knows she genuinely enjoys helping people feel confident in their own skin. Whether you're looking for skincare advice, quality products, or just someone who truly cares, she's a wonderful resource.

This week's theme seemed to be protecting what matters most. Michele reminded us to protect our families, our homes, and our futures through thoughtful planning. Lynn reminded us that one of our greatest assets is our own health, and sometimes the simplest habits today can make the biggest difference years from now. Whether it's protecting your legacy or protecting your skin, a little preparation today can prevent a lot of heartache tomorrow.

🇺🇸 A quick reminder: There will be no BNI meeting next week as we celebrate Independence Day!

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July with family and friends. Enjoy the cookouts, make some memories, and if you're lighting fireworks... remember to let go before they go! 🎆😂

Happy Independence Day BNI Lookout family! 🇺🇸🎇

06/11/2026

🎤 Today's BNI Speaker Spotlight🎤

Our first speaker today was Jason Sanders with Stanley Steemer.

Jason shared a little about his life outside of work, including his beautiful wife and his Chilweenie dog, who may be small in size but apparently believes they are in charge of home security. 😄

For more than seven years, Jason has helped homeowners and businesses understand the right way to care for their floors and interiors. Stanley Steemer offers carpet cleaning, area rug cleaning, hardwood floor cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and even air duct cleaning to help create cleaner, healthier spaces.

A great referral for Jason is anyone needing these services, but he's also looking to build relationships with larger commercial accounts like Food City and Walmart. If you know a facility manager or decision maker, let's help him make the connection.

Our second speaker was Jim Graham with Evergreen Consulting.

Jim shared a few personal notes, he's an avid reader, enjoys traveling, and after more than 45 years of helping people with financial planning, he's learned that common sense never goes out of style. His personal motto is, "Overperform and Underpromise."

One of the biggest takeaways from today's presentation was simple: before pulling out the credit card, ask yourself, "Do I want it, or do I need it?" Paying 25% interest on something you didn't really need can become an expensive habit, and those small financial decisions compound over the years.

Jim is a great referral for someone navigating an inheritance, preparing for retirement, or simply looking for a trusted advisor to help them get on the right financial path. Whether they're starting with a few hundred dollars or managing a lifetime of savings, Jim helps clients make thoughtful decisions for the future.

Also, remember next week is visitors day, invite a visitor who you think we can help grow their business as well as yours through the power of networking.

06/04/2026

🎤 Today's BNI Speakers were James and Ben.

Our first speaker was James Cassetty with Quality Pro Pressure Washing.
🔗 http://getpowerwashed.com/

James shared that he's been helping homeowners and businesses stay clean for more than 17 years. From residential house washing and commercial properties to fleet washing, Quality Pro Pressure Washing helps keep properties looking their best while protecting valuable investments.

One thing that stands out about James is his ability to solve problems. Every property presents unique challenges, and he takes pride in finding the right solution for each situation. With 237 five-star Google reviews, it's clear that customers appreciate both the quality of work and the level of service they receive.

A great referral for James would be property managers, business owners, concrete and asphalt contractors, fleet operators, or anyone whose home or business could use a fresh start. After all, sometimes a good pressure washing reveals a building you forgot was that color. 😄

Our second speaker was Ben Robison (that's Robison – no "N" in the last name!) with Scenic City Handyman.
🔗 https://www.thesceniccityhandyman.com/

Ben is the guy to call when your home improvement to-do list starts looking more like a novel. From changing light fixtures and replacing doors to drywall repair, trim work, deck repairs, and general handyman services, he helps homeowners knock out the projects they've been meaning to get to for months or years.

If you've ever heard, "When are you going to fix that?" from across the house, Ben might just save you from hearing it again. 😄

He serves a large area including Chattanooga, Cleveland, Sale Creek, and many surrounding communities. A great referral for Ben is any homeowner, landlord, realtor, or busy professional with a growing punch list and not enough time to tackle it.

05/28/2026

I'm calling this one "Triple Threat Thursday". Taking last weeks speakers and bringing them into today. From last week to this week it was packed with expertise. We heard from a lender who helps people finance their dreams, a roofer who keeps those dreams dry, and a tire guy who makes sure you can drive to both.

🏡💰 Don Oakes – Highlands Residential Mortgage

Don reminded us that buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. As a Senior Loan Officer with Highlands Residential Mortgage, he helps guide buyers through the mortgage process with experience, transparency, and a local touch.

BNI Takeaway:
When your clients start talking about buying a home, refinancing, or mortgage options, Don is the guy to call. He helps turn "Can we afford it?" into "Welcome home."

🏠🔨 Ted Hayes – Chattanooga Roofing Company

Ted shared how Chattanooga Roofing Company helps homeowners and businesses protect what matters most. From repairs and storm damage to complete roof replacements, his team helps customers keep a solid roof over their heads.

BNI Takeaway:
Most people don't think about their roof until water starts thinking about their living room. If you know someone with a leak, storm damage, or an aging roof, Ted is the referral you want.

🚗🛞 Frank Holcomb – Sentry Station Goodyear

Frank reminded us that vehicles usually give warning signs before major problems happen. The team at Sentry Station Goodyear helps drivers stay safe with tires, alignments, brakes, oil changes, and preventative maintenance.

BNI Takeaway:
If your steering wheel shakes, your brakes squeak, or your tires are smoother than a bowling ball, Frank can help. A little maintenance today beats a big repair bill tomorrow.

⚡ Triple Threat Thursday Recap

Today's Triple Threat Thursday covered three things nearly everyone needs at some point:

🏡 Financing the house with Don.
🏠 Protecting the house with Ted.
🚗 Getting to the house with Frank.

Thanks to all three speakers for sharing their expertise and helping keep Chattanooga's homes financed, roofs protected, and vehicles rolling down the road. 👏👏👏

05/14/2026

Good morning everyone.

🎤 Today’s BNI Speaker Spotlight🎤

Our first speaker today was Malachi Jared with Country Financial
🔗 https://www.countryfinancial.com/en/insurance/business/business-coverage.html

Country Financial recently celebrated 100 years in business, and Malachi shared how their company continues helping business owners protect what they’ve worked hard to build. From liability and property coverage to business interruption protection, they work with companies to create insurance solutions tailored to their specific operations and risks.

One thing that stood out was the importance of having the right coverage before something unexpected happens. A great referral for Malachi would be farm owners, medical offices, landscapers, dentists, and other business owners looking to better protect their operations and plan ahead with confidence.

🎤 Today’s BNI Speaker Spotlight🎤

Our second speaker today was Stuart Martin with Karpet Korner
🔗 https://karpetkornerinc.net/

Stuart shared how Karpet Korner helps homeowners, builders, and business owners upgrade their spaces with carpet, hardwood, tile, vinyl, waterproof flooring, and more. Whether someone is remodeling a home or updating a commercial space, his team helps guide customers from product selection to installation.

He also mentioned American Wholesale Appliances, where customers can often save 30% to 50% on scratch-and-dent appliances. A small ding or scratch could mean saving $500 to $800 on a refrigerator alone.

And let’s be honest, nothing makes you question your life choices faster than pulling up old carpet in a house that’s been “well loved” for 15 years 😄

A great referral for Stuart would be homeowners remodeling, property managers, real estate investors, builders, or anyone wanting to refresh their home or office.

04/30/2026

🎤 Today’s BNI Speakers Spotlight

David Mattoon – Forward Home Inspections
🔗 https://www.forwardhomeinspectorchattanooga.com/

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make and David helps make sure there are no surprises hiding behind the walls. A professional home inspection can save you thousands or give you a clear to-do list before putting a property on the market.

David has truly seen it all from “bonus rooms” no one knew existed to spaces you’d rather not discover without a professional by your side (think damp, moldy, and questionable at best). And as you look at the picture Will took… just know I’m not sleeping, I’m in deep thought, trying to figure out how to follow that up for my next 60 seconds next week. 😄

At the end of the day, every homeowner wants peace of mind—and that’s exactly what you get with Forward Home Inspections. He’s a great referral for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents who want confidence in every deal.

Debbie Raborn – Builtwell Bank
🔗 https://www.builtwell.bank/

With over 30 years in banking and 18 of those with Builtwell Bank, Debbie brings experience you can count on and conversations that actually make sense. Whether you’re opening a new account, planning for growth, or need a loan to move your business forward, she takes the time to understand your goals and guide you through the process.

She also shared a simple but powerful tip: making just one extra mortgage payment per year can cut years off your loan potentially saving you a significant amount in interest. Not bad for a small adjustment.

From smaller lending needs to larger financial goals, Debbie is a great referral for anyone looking for a trusted banking partner who keeps things clear, practical, and focused on long-term success.

👀 Let’s keep our eyes and ears open this week for opportunities to connect David and Debbie with the right referrals! 👀