𝕎𝕆𝕎! Did you see VIP Murfreesboro's Top 40 Under 40!

Last Updated 4/11/2024 • in News, Stories, Murfreesboro, Rutherford County

Main Street businesses locked in 5 of the 40 this year.

BRADLEEMAN OWNER | HAPPY’S SPORTS LOUNGE

The advice that Brad Leeman would give to a high school student is only do jobs that they are learning and growing from, not the option with the highest pay. “Do what you are passionate about and not what everyone else tells you is the “smart” thing to do,” said Leeman. “I took a big risk leaving my job as an administrator for a Skilled Nursing Facility to open Happy’s Sports Lounge. I am super excited to see the future of Happy’s along with the overall growth of Downtown Murfreesboro!” Leeman feels so blessed to have been raised with a really supportive family. His Grandfather, Robert Adams, is a mentor. “He has always been so motivated, but fun to be around at the same time,” explained Leeman. “He has been there for me and supported me at every stage of life. I have always wanted to be just like him.” A finance graduate of the University of Tennessee, he received his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Florida State.

DR. LAURENEMANUEL DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC | BORO CHIROPRACTIC

If Dr. Lauren Emanuel were to describe herself, she’d say that she’s a passionate and dedicated individual who wholeheartedly loves serving Rutherford County. As a co-owner of Boro Chiropractic alongside husband Noah, she’s committed to providing exceptional care, while maintaining a down-to-earth and approachable demeanor. Dr. Emanuel’s husband Noah has had an immense impact on her life, both personally and professionally. His leadership style has been inspiring and shaped her in many ways. “Noah embodies qualities that I deeply admire,” said Dr. Emanuel, “including putting others first, kindness, decisiveness and being an exceptional listener. He leads by example, always prioritizing the well-being of others and approaching every situation with empathy and compassion.” Community involvement is at the core of who she is. She works with Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Special Kids, Kamari House, Portico and multiple middle and high school teams. “Beyond the walls of our clinic,” said Dr. Emanuel, “I look forward to further strengthening our connections within Rutherford County, whether it’s through community events, partnerships with local organizations or simply reaching out and getting to know more of our neighbors. I’m passionate about fostering meaningful relationships and making a positive impact wherever I can.”

Jeremy Florida Owner/Head Roaster of BRASS HORN COFFEE ROASTERS

Jeremy Florida’s family has had a business on the same block of Murfreesboro since 1957. At Brass Horn Coffee Roasters, he is trying to honor the legacy of the building. Since his grandfather built the building next door for his auto parts business, that is still a parts store today, the Brass Horn space has housed the Red Cross, Greenhouse Ministries, and the Experience Community Church. “So many pillars of our community have called this building their home,” said Florida. “Not only do I desperately want that to be Brass Horn’s future, but I feel an obligation to continue that legacy.” He took a huge risk turning down the opportunity to run an established business as a third-generation family owner to open Brass Horn. There were many long, tearful nights making that decision. “Ultimately my dad has been so supportive and encouraging and we wouldn’t be open today without him or my wife and the sacrifices they made,” said Florida. “Brass Horn’s success is a testament to God providing the right people at the right time with the right skills, not a testament to anything I have done.” Another person whom Florida feels was instrumental to his success is his pastor, Trevor Atwood of City Church. Atwood even talked him into joining his free men’s workout group, F3. “There are countless things I’ve learned from Trevor,” said Florida, “but a few key points are: Show up and don’t quit when it gets difficult, character matters, and cultivate people, don’t consume them. Don’t look for what you can get out of someone, but look for how you can pour into them, and how God may be working in you through that relationship.”

SHANNONBECKMAN PHARMACIST/OWNER BECKMAN’S PRESCRIPTION SHOP

Definitely, the largest risk Shannon Beckman has ever taken was purchasing Beckman’s Prescription Shop, an independent pharmacy with her husband, Keith. Independent pharmacy is a very challenging field these days, with decreased reimbursements and increased regulations from insurance companies. While many small pharmacies nationwide are closing, the Beckmans believe their pharmacy is thriving due to their wonderful patients, great staff and supportive community. “My biggest impact in the community is probably through the pharmacy.” said Shannon. To her, it’s more than a business, it’s the relationships with the patients, and she’s been a part of that over half of her life. “For over 50 years, our pharmacy has served patients and been downtown’s home for prescriptions, vaccinations and health advice. I began working at Beckman’s as a delivery driver while in college, so it’s a dream to still get to take care of patients in the same location, but now in a different role, now as a second- generation business owner.” Raised in Murfreesboro, Shannon attended Riverdale High School where she met her husband of 16 years, Keith Beckman, before attending MTSU and the University of Tennessee (UT) Pharmacy School in Knoxville In addition to her work as a community pharmacist, Shannon enjoys teaching students as a preceptor for the UT Pharmacy School. She also values the pharmacy’s partnership with Community Helpers of Rutherford County, which helps provide medications to those who are needing assistance. And, she is the Vice-Chair of Main Street Murfreesboro Board of Directors, a non-profit organization that supports Downtown Murfreesboro. About Main Street Murfreesboro, Shannon stated, “I feel Downtown Murfreesboro is truly the heartbeat of our city and I love getting to contribute to the businesses, events and beautiful spaces that make it so special.” They have two daughters, Ally who is 12 and Cora who is eight. The girls keep mom and dad busy with soccer, performances and lots of other activities.

WHITLEY FOSTER WEDDING INVITATION DESIGNER AND SALES CONSULTANT THE WRITE IMPRESSION

Growing up Whitley Foster was constantly doodling and writing her name or quotes on any notebook or flat surface she could get her hands on. However, after graduating from Lipscomb University and living in Nashville for a few years, Foster had an opportunity to work in the insurance industry back home in Murfreesboro for State Farm Agent Celeste Middleton. She worked in the field for eight and a half years. In 2016, with many friends planning their weddings, Foster was asked to address wedding invitation envelopes and create custom signage for their big day. As her clientele expanded, so did the extent of her creations and she launched her calligraphy and hand-lettering business, Whitley Writes. She has created everything from personalized doormats to custom event signage, custom keepsake pieces and home and holiday decor. “I soon realized that my passion for paper and design was something that I wanted to pursue as a career, and in 2022 I began working with Susan Grear at The Write Impression located on Murfreesboro’s Downtown Square,” said Foster. As a design consultant at The Write Impression, Foster works one on one with brides to design and create the perfect wedding invitation suite, and all of the accompanying pieces. She loves getting to be a part of bringing a bride’s vision to life, making their special day personal and unique. Her greatest inspiration is her grandfather, former County Mayor Ernest Burgess. People stop her almost every day to ask how he is doing since retiring or to tell her how much he has meant to them. Foster serves on the boards of the Rutherford County Library Foundation and Middle Tennessee Christian School’s Alumni Association. She recently joined Junior League of Murfreesboro.

Congrats to all 40 individuals

Photos and content were provided by VIP Murfreesboro. To read their full April 2024 issue you can pick one up at participating locations or read it here online.