#50: Gregory Tells All: Cancer Survivor, HGTV Director, & How He Hired Ryan

Gregory Powell brings his sharp wit and design expertise to the podcast, sharing the remarkable journey that led him from New York's television industry back to his hometown of Pittsburgh. What began as a simple complaint about facial pain during a family visit in 2018 quickly escalated to a life-changing diagnosis: stage four adenoid cystic carcinoma, an incredibly rare cancer affecting his salivary gland. Rather than surrendering to circumstance, Gregory approached his hospital stay with characteristic flair—ordering Japanese kimonos, using vintage silverware for hospital meals, and creating a "creative deck" specifying acceptable flower arrangements for visitors. This refusal to surrender his identity perfectly encapsulates Gregory's perspective on life's challenges: "When they're telling you 'we have to fix this right now,' you don't have time to think 'why me?' You just go into action mode." After recovering just as COVID hit in early 2020, Gregory pivoted professionally into design production for HGTV, where his ability to solve problems under pressure made him invaluable on shows like "Trixie Motel." He describes the delicate balance of managing reality TV production schedules against construction timelines, often requiring creative solutions when materials don't arrive on time. Throughout our conversation, Gregory offers candid insights into dating in what he calls "the Paris of Appalachia," describing Pittsburgh's social scene as a "yearbook" where everyone knows everyone's history. His perspective on relationships at this stage of life is refreshingly mature—maintaining separate homes even in committed relationships, valuing independence alongside connection. From naming his chickens after fashion icons to having his dog Louis upgraded to first class while he remained in coach, Gregory's stories blend humor with authentic reflection on creating a meaningful life after facing mortality. His journey reminds us that maintaining our personal style and humor through life's greatest challenges isn't just about survival—it's about thriving on your own terms. Send us a text Mocktails Or Messy podcast IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy Listen | Apple , Spotify , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot