AVL Biz Weekly: Jan 14–20 | The Visibility Shift

Welcome to AVL BIZ Weekly—your local cheat sheet for what’s happening in Asheville’s small business + creative scenes.

Each week: hand-picked events, marketing ideas that actually work, and a little local flavor to keep things fun.

My name's Jason and I'm writing this (connect with me here).

Congrats, friends. You made it to week two of 2026.

By the end of the year, all of our collective conscience will probably be uploaded to an AI agent. But for now, let’s enjoy each other, in person, while we still have the chance.

This week’s got a solid mix of business events, fun things to do and great live music (Tom Petty cover band, anybody?). Worth leaving your comfy couch for.

📋 On Deck

• Mindset & Reflection: The fear of being "too much."

• Business: Public speaking, Google optimization, and the Black Business Alliance kickoff.

• Marketing: Writing the scary email and soft CTAs.

• Fun: Ice skating, restaurant week, and gluten-free comedy.

• Music: Tribute bands, bluegrass jams, and 2000s dance parties.

🙋 Want your biz featured in front of a few really smart AVL business owners? Email me for details

🗓️ Business Events

• 🗓️ National Speakers Association NSA-WNC Meeting (hosted by ACNC) – Thu, Jan 15 · 10:15–11:45 AM (216 Asheland Ave, Asheville)

  A focused, in-person meetup for professional speakers, coaches, trainers, and consultants to sharpen both the craft and business of public speaking through peer learning and real-world examples. Hosted by AmeriHealth Caritas North Carolina, this NSA-WNC gathering is ideal for anyone serious about growing their speaking work and impact.

• 🗓️ Agent’s Caravan (January 2026) – Thu, Jan 15 · 11:00 AM–3:30 PM (125 Bleachery Blvd, Asheville)

  A carpooled, in-the-field networking event hosted by Allied Home Inspection where real estate agents tour standout listings together, swap market insights, and build real relationships without spending the day driving solo. Ideal for agents who want to stay sharp on local inventory while connecting with peers in a practical, low-pressure setting.

• 🗓️ Reclaim Your Power: Create the Life and Business You Desire in 2026 – Tue, Jan 20 · 9:00 AM–1:00 PM (Hatch Coworking Asheville, 45 S French Broad Ave, Suite 170)

  A half-day, in-person workshop led by Travis Richardson focused on helping entrepreneurs reconnect with intuition, alignment, and authenticity while intentionally designing what’s next for both life and business. Ideal for founders and creatives who want to start 2026 grounded, clear-headed, and moving forward on purpose.

• 🗓️ The Agent’s Guide to Getting More Business on Google: Getting Google Ready – Wed, Jan 21 · 10:00–11:00 AM (Land of the Sky Association of REALTORS, 21 Restaurant Ct, Asheville)

  A free, hands-on workshop hosted by business powerhouse Kimi Marshall McBurney (from Allied Home Inspection) that shows real estate agents how to properly set up and optimize their Google Business Profile so buyers and sellers can actually find them. Built for busy agents, this session focuses on clear, practical steps you can apply immediately to start showing up, building trust, and gaining momentum in local search.

• 🗓️ She Owns It, AVL – Wed, Jan 21 · 6:00–8:00 PM (Ginger's Revenge, 829 Riverside Dr)

  A warm, high-vibe meetup for women ready to grow in life, money, and mindset, featuring guest speaker Jacqueline Boone, founder of The Dream Academy, sharing insights on dreams, vision, and purpose to kick off the year. Come early to connect, grab a drink in the tasting room, and leave feeling inspired, supported, and genuinely connected.

  Special Note: Jackie’s Kickstarter book launch just got fully funded! Follow along or contribute if you want to still be part of this exciting part of Jackie’s journey.

• 🗓️ Black Business Alliance Kickoff – Thu, Jan 22 · 5:00–7:00 PM (Dr. Wesley Grant, Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St, Asheville)

  The Asheville Chamber launches its Black Business Alliance with an evening of networking and a panel discussion focused on advocacy, access, and real support for Black-owned businesses in WNC. Expect relationship-building, insight into upcoming educational programs, and a clear look at how the Alliance plans to create long-term opportunity and economic strength in the region.

Hosting something cool?

📬 Hit reply and tell me what you think. Or share an event!

💡 Marketing Quickies

1. Write the Email You’ve Been Avoiding

   The one to your list that starts with “I’ve been quiet because…” or “Here’s what I’ve been rethinking lately.” Honest beats polished, and this kind of email gets opened.

2. Update One Screenshot on Your Website
   Replace one outdated photo, testimonial, or screenshot today. Fresh visuals quietly signal momentum, even if nothing else changes. Should take less than 5 minutes.

3. Add a Soft CTA to Your Social Posts

   Not “Book a call.” Try: “Reply if this sounds like you,” or “Save this for later.” Engagement warms the room before the sale.

4. Create a 15-Minute Weekly Marketing Ritual

   Same time, same place, every week. One post, one reply, one follow-up. Consistency > 24-hour marketing marathons that will never happen again.

5. Turn a Question into Content

   The last real question a client asked you? Answer it publicly. If one person asked, ten more are thinking it.

🎉 Fun Stuff Around AVL

• 🗓️ Asheville Yards Winter Wonderland & Holiday Ice Rink – Wed, Jan 14 · 6:00–8:00 PM (Asheville Yards, 75 Coxe Ave)

  A festive, low-pressure winter hang with ice skating, lights, hot drinks, music, and plenty of mingling—perfect whether you’re lacing up skates or just soaking up the cozy downtown vibes.

• 🗓️ Naturalist Walk and Talk – Fri, Jan 16 · 1:00–3:00 PM (The North Carolina Arboretum)

  A relaxed, outdoor stroll with staff naturalists exploring winter flora, fauna, and whatever curious natural moments show up along the trails— for nature lovers who enjoy learning by wandering.

• 🗓️ Social and a Show: Comedy Night – Fri, Jan 16 · 6:00–9:00 PM (Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave)

  A high-energy Friday night with Asheville Young Professionals featuring a pre-show social hour followed by a packed comedy set from festival favorite Sid Davis, blending laughs, drinks, and downtown vibes in an intimate theater setting.

• 🗓️ Scribbles of Strength: Full Circle Group – Sat, Jan 18 · 3:00–5:00 PM (Full Circle Community Wellness)

  A gentle, heart-opening creative writing workshop led by Emily Coolbeth that uses meditation and guided prompts to help participants explore healing, gratitude, and personal growth—no writing experience required.

• 🗓️ Modelface Comedy Presets: Gluten-Free Comedy at Ginger’s Revenge – Sat, Jan 17 · 7:00–9:00 PM (Ginger's Revenge, 829 Riverside Dr)

  A high-energy standup showcase from Modelface Comedy featuring sharp local favorites and touring comics, plus craft ginger beer and plenty of reasons to laugh your face off.

• 🗓️ Asheville Restaurant Week – Jan 20–26 (Participating restaurants across Asheville)

  A citywide excuse to eat very well, as local restaurants roll out special menus and deals that make it easy to revisit old favorites or finally try that spot you’ve been eyeing.

• 🗓️ Restorative Reiki Reset – Mon, Jan 26 · 6:30–8:00 PM (Energetic Experiences, 81 Weaverville Rd, Suite 2)

  A deeply relaxing evening blending gentle restorative yoga and hands-on reiki healing to help you reset your nervous system, clear stuck energy, and leave feeling grounded, supported, and calm.

🎧 Bands on the Horizon (Aug 27–Sep14)

• Angel Chantel & Underbrush — Wed, Jan 14 · 6 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Slice Standup Comedy Pageant Finale — Thu, Jan 15 · 7:30 PM @ The Orange Peel

• The Feels — Thu, Jan 15 · 7 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Ruston Kelly — Thu, Jan 15 · 8 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Andrew Scotchie — Fri, Jan 16 · 7 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Early Bird Jam — Fri, Jan 16 · 7 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Chris Bullock: Footprints — Fri, Jan 16 · 7 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• The Broken Hearts (Tom Petty Tribute) — Fri, Jan 16 · 7 PM @ The Orange Peel

• Jes Sky — Fri, Jan 16 · 8 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Fred Eaglesmith — Fri, Jan 16 · 8 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• SkiiTour — Fri, Jan 16 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Jackson Chisholm & Friends — Sat, Jan 17 · 6–9 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Atmosphere — Sat, Jan 17 · 7 PM @ The Orange Peel

• River Roots — Sat, Jan 17 · 8 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Mike Matison & Trash Magic — Sat, Jan 17 · 8 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Gordon Sterling & the People — Sat, Jan 17 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Burlesque Brunch — Sun, Jan 18 · 12 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Coverfest (Benefit for Asheville Middle School) — Sun, Jan 18 · 5 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Spiro & Friends (Sunday Jam) — Sun, Jan 18 · 6–9 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Shakedown Sundays — Sun, Jan 18 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Early Bird Jam — Tue, Jan 20 · 7 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Uncle Jenny’s Krazy Karaoke — Tue, Jan 20 · 8 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Jesse James DeConto — Wed, Jan 21 · 6 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Golden Folk Sessions — Wed, Jan 21 · 7 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Eli Hrachn & Juliana Jade — Wed, Jan 21 · 8 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• The Basement — Wed, Jan 21 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Carolina Bluegrass Style — Thu, Jan 22 · 7 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Joe List — Thu, Jan 22 · 7 PM @ The Orange Peel

• Chatham County Line — Thu, Jan 22 · 8 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Bridget Gossett Band — Fri, Jan 23 · 6 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• Dan Clare Collective — Fri, Jan 23 · 7 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Bear’s Gone Phishing — Fri, Jan 23 · 8 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Hot in Herre: 2000s Dance Party — Fri, Jan 23 · 8 PM @ The Orange Peel

• Neil Hamburger w/ Chris Crofton — Fri, Jan 23 · 8 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• 5J Barrow — Fri, Jan 23 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Blue Country Line Dance Giddy-Up Brunch — Sat, Jan 24 · 11 AM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Phuncle Sam w/ Cassana Monje — Sat, Jan 24 · 6 PM @ Pisgah Brewing Company

• River Roots — Sat, Jan 24 · 8 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• The Dancing Fleas — Sat, Jan 24 · 8 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Tribute to Dwight Yoakam — Sat, Jan 24 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Great Wide Nothing — Sat, Jan 24 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

• Asheville Vaudeville Brunch — Sun, Jan 25 · 12 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Fringe Revival — Sun, Jan 25 · 5 PM @ The Orange Peel

• Willis Alan Ramsey — Sun, Jan 25 · 8 PM @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

• Shakedown Sundays — Sun, Jan 25 · 9 PM @ Asheville Music Hall

Until next week,

Jason De Los Santos
Pixelated Stories Digital Marketing
(828) 585-4293

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