Entrepreneurs look for gaps, for niche markets where they can fill a void. That's exactly what Scott McLeod and Greg Boothroyd did when they started Smoky Mountain News 11 years ago.

Their instincts were spot on—the weekly regional newspaper delivers news of interest to both tourists and locals in a four county area and the Qualla Boundary.

"We took a big leap of faith when we started this venture. It was really about finding a way to stay here, so we engaged that entrepreneurial spirit and took a chance,"Greg stated.

The two partners continue to fill gaps—they are now in the custom publishing business. "With custom publishing, we can morph to whatever the client needs, and provide a unique outlet for advertising and news not met by traditional newspapers,"explained Scott.

Custom publishing accounts for 35-40% of their revenues and helps them do more with the same resources. The company recently purchased Smoky Mountain Living magazine, giving them an even broader regional/national audience.

Scott says their 13 employees work in an environment that works for everyone. They gauge success by output. "Our employees know that they need to do, and the work doesn't necessarily happen between 8 and 5. It's about quality and quantity—we're not your normal outfit,"he explained.

Both Greg and Scott are active in the community. "We know that the community is only as good as you help make it,"said Greg. "If we lead by example, others will follow."

"This is a place people choose to live, and it's energizing to be here. There are so many smart, successful people here, why wouldn't you want to stay?"asked Scott.

To be successful in Haywood County, the partners agree on the need to adapt quickly to opportunities. "You have to be prepared to ball up that business plan and adapt quickly without missing a beat,"advised Greg. "Also understand the amount of work and dedication it takes. Get involved and make it happen."

Scott and Greg love the Waynesville lifestyle. "I can walk to my son's PTO meeting, be at a ski area in 30 minutes, take visitors for a drive on the Parkway or to a national forest or go to a festival or a lake or a river. It's great year round. It's a wonderful life,"reflected Greg.