Five and a half years as West Knoxville Lifestyle flew by in a blur of photo sessions and interviews with remarkable people and their pursuits. We couldn’t let this opportunity to announce our name change to Knoxville City Lifestyle go by without taking one more look at the stories that defined West Knoxville Lifestyle.
Comedian Leanne Morgan
Share A Laugh with Leanne Morgan
Comedian Leanne Morgan brought warmth and wit to a studio interview during a pivotal moment in her career. From Tennessee roots and motherhood to viral fame, sold-out tours and a Netflix special, Morgan reflected on persistence, family and finding her lane later in life, proving she truly is just getting started on her own terms.
Founder Allan Benton and Darrell Benton
Passing on a Tradition, Benton’s Country Ham
Country ham maker Allan Benton welcomed son Darrell into Benton’s Smoky Mountain Country Hams, passing on a tradition rooted in craft and community. A former Knoxville radiologist, Darrell traded medicine for the smokehouse, finding joy, family time and connection, while Allan keeps working because he loves it, and customers savor hams famed nationwide today.
Executive Chef Joseph Lenn, J.C. Holdway
Summer Grilling Series
A James Beard Award winner and owner of Michelin Guide–recommended J.C. Holdway, Knoxville chef Joseph Lenn closed our Summer Grilling Series with pitmaster-level tips. Known for wood-fire cooking, Lenn shared a quick grilled shrimp recipe and advice for home chefs, emphasizing simplicity, heat control and bold, flavorful results.
Lagotto Romagnolo Breeder and Trainer Jim Sanford
Blackberry Farm, a Dog-Forward Story
Jim Sanford, a former elephant trainer, now breeds and trains Lagotto Romagnolo dogs at Blackberry Farm in Tennessee. Known for finding truffles and forming strong bonds with owners, his Lagotto program includes breeding, training and international truffle-hunting trips. Sanford has delivered over 300 puppies, blending luxury hospitality, canine intelligence and hands-on instruction into a unique, dog-forward experience.
Executive Director Becky Hancock
Bridging the Gap. Tennessee Theatre 612 Expansion
In support of the Tennessee Theatre, we highlighted the expansion of 612 S. Gay St., linking the historic 1923 theatre to new patron amenities, rehearsal space and community outreach areas. The expansion, set for completion in March 2026, will enhance performances, education and accessibility ahead of the theater’s centennial in 2028 and will serve future generations.
President, Rev. Reneé Kesler, Beck Cultural Exchange Center
The Delaney Museum at Beck
Rev. Reneé Kesler interviewed on The Delaney Museum at Beck, a restoration of the Knoxville childhood home of artists Beauford and Joseph Delaney, and preserving a vital chapter of African American art history. The Beck Cultural Exchange Center project honors the Harlem Renaissance–era brothers, while anchoring their global legacy in their hometown through education, community partnership and cultural pride.
Executive Director Kumi Alderman, Asian Culture Center of Tennessee
The Knoxville Asian Festival
Founded by Tokyo native Kumi Alderman, the Annual Knoxville Asian Festival celebrates culture, community and connection through food, music and performance. Returning to World’s Fair Park, the event features 13 countries, martial arts, a parade of nations and family-friendly activities, welcoming thousands to share traditions, spark friendships and experience Asia’s diversity in East Tennessee.
WBIR Anchor Robin Wilhoit
At Home with WBIR’s Robin Wilhoit
One of Knoxville’s most beloved journalists, WBIR anchor Robin Wilhoit, reflected on a 30-year career covering defining moments and everyday stories. She shared what she values most—health, family and balance—while encouraging grace, curiosity and kindness. Wilhoit continues connecting with viewers through trusted storytelling and community service, inspiring the next generation of journalists.
Cookbook Author Jimmy Proffitt
“Seasoned in Appalachia”
Jimmy Proffitt’s debut cookbook, Seasoned in Appalachia, celebrates Appalachian foodways through 75 approachable recipes rooted in family, storytelling and tradition. Raised among “Granny cooks” in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Proffitt blends history, folklore and hands-on wisdom, inviting readers into a warm, lived-in kitchen where every dish tells a story of place, perseverance and reverence for Appalachia.
Executive Director Steven Matijcio and Anita Matijcio
The Fine Art of Appreciation. Knoxville Museum of Art
Steven Matijcio, executive director of the Knoxville Museum of Art, invited East Tennesseans to gather, reflect and connect through visual art. Since arriving in Knoxville, Matijcio has embraced community, family and creativity, curating welcoming exhibitions and experiences that celebrate local heritage while engaging global perspectives and inspiring curiosity, conversation and a shared sense of place for the whole community.
Director, Dr. Chris Magra, Center for the Study of Tennesseans and War
Honoring Volunteer State Veterans
Dr. Chris Magra, UT history professor and director of the Center for the Study of Tennesseans and War, leads a student team preserving the stories of Tennessee veterans from the 1700s to today. Through interviews, archival research and digitized collections, the center honors service members, shares their experiences publicly and creates lasting educational and memorial resources statewide.
Artist Paris Woodhull
A Decade of Local Artistry
Knoxville Artist Paris Woodhull has spent a decade turning her passion for art into a thriving business. From murals and illustrated maps to prints, keychains and cards, she blends creativity with entrepreneurship. Woodhull credits mentors and community support for her success, emphasizing perseverance, learning from mistakes and giving emerging artists opportunities to grow.