I am Northwest Arkansas
436 episodes - English - Latest episode: 11 days ago - ★★★★★ - 52 ratingsThe I am Northwest Arkansas Podcast covers the intersection of Business, Culture, Entrepreneurship, and Life in Benton and Washington County Arkansas. If you are thinking about moving here or already live here, we've got great inspiring stories, ideas, things to do, places to see, people to meet, and food to eat. Learn why we are one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas of the US.
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Episodes
Exploring Podcasting's Impact and Growth in Arkansas with Ti King
June 24, 2024 13:30 - 53 minutes - 37 MBAbout the Show: "Even if you know there's somebody that already puts out very similar content to what you're wanting to put out, someone is going to pick you over them because they enjoy the cadence of your voice or the way that you present the material." Ti King About the Guest: Ti King is the founder of the Arkansas Podcasters Group, known as Our Cast. Based out of Little Rock, Ti has significantly impacted the podcasting landscape across Arkansas, extending his initiatives to the enti...
Emma Willis Discusses Preserving Black History in Northwest Arkansas
June 17, 2024 13:30 - 56 minutes - 38.7 MBAbout the Show: "All of these stories are intertwined and connected, and they bring up these very interesting stories about what was it like to be black in Northwest Arkansas." Emma Willis About the Guest: Emma Willis is the founder of Impact Period and a representative for NWA Black Heritage. She is passionate about preserving African American history and culture in Northwest Arkansas. Emma is currently spearheading an effort to establish the first Black Fayetteville Historic District i...
Juan Bahena discusses the success and vision of Tula, a Mexican restaurant in Fayetteville
June 10, 2024 13:30 - 37 minutes - 25.7 MBAbout the Show: "My goal is for Tula to be a destination restaurant in Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas." Juan Bahena About the Guest: Juan Bahena is the owner and visionary behind Tula, a destination Mexican restaurant located right on the square in Fayetteville, Arkansas. With roots originally from Chicago and family ties to Guerrero, Mexico, Juan brings a rich cultural and professional background to the culinary scene in the Ozarks. He is an alumnus of the University of Arkansas, h...
Architect Daniel Parolek discusses the Important of Housing
June 03, 2024 13:30 - 49 minutes - 33.9 MBAbout the Show: "It's going to take effort on everybody's part, not one person or one group is going to bring the solution to the table." Daniel Parolek About the Guest: Daniel Parolek is an innovative architect, urban designer, and author recognized for his work in sustainable urbanism and housing solutions. He is the co-founder of Opticos Design, a groundbreaking firm that focuses on crafting walkable urban environments and promoting 'Missing Middle Housing.' As a leading voice in the...
Charting New Paths: Dr. Jeff Flanigan's Educational and Inspirational Impact in NWA
May 27, 2024 13:30 - 1 hour - 44.8 MBAbout the Show: "God will always place what you need and who you need when you need them." - Jeff Flanigan About the Guest: Dr. Jeff Flanigan is the principal of George Junior High School in Springdale. With a history deeply rooted in Arkansas, Dr. Flanigan's journey from student-athlete to educator is marked by a series of steadfast commitments. Beginning his post-secondary education with a full scholarship to the University of Arkansas, he ventured into coaching basketball at Southern...
NWA Transplant: CEO of Smart Eye Technology Discusses Relocating to Northwest Arkansas and the Importance of the Local Business Ecosystem
May 20, 2024 13:30 - 40 minutes - 37 MBAbout the Show: "We want to build the kinds of communities where our kids will want to raise their kids." Dexter Caffey About the Guest: Dexter Caffey is the innovative CEO of Smart Eye Technology, where he leads the way in revolutionizing data protection through continuous facial recognition technology. Based in Northwest Arkansas, Dexter focuses on creating a secure digital environment for both businesses and consumers. He's an alumnus of Youngstown State University and has a backgroun...
Crafting the Future: Bruce Katz on Urban Innovation and Northwest Arkansas's Potential
May 16, 2024 13:00 - 49 minutes - 34.1 MBAbout the Show: "Cities are the vanguard of problem-solving in the modern world." Bruce Katz About the Guest: Bruce Katz, a renowned urban policy expert and the founding director of the Nowak Metro Finance Lab at Drexel University, joins us to share his deep insights on the transformative power of cities. With a rich background that includes advising urban leaders globally and authoring the pivotal book "The New Localism," Bruce brings a wealth of knowledge on how cities can flourish ami...
Keeping It Real: How NWA Transplants Authentically Share Their Journey
May 13, 2024 13:30 - 51 minutes - 35.6 MBAbout the Show: "Northwest Arkansas is part of Arkansas. You're going to find a lot of different areas, and, no matter what you're into, you're going to find your people." Brittany Swiderski About the Guests: This podcast episode offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Brittany and Amin, a young couple who uprooted from New York to Northwest Arkansas just before the pandemic turned the world upside down. With Amin's new job as their compass, they took a leap of faith into the unknow...
St. James Food Pantry Director Discusses Serving the Community in Northwest Arkansas
May 06, 2024 13:30 - 54 minutes - 37.3 MBAbout the Show: "Allowing people to work within their strength strengthens our whole operations of the food pantry." Monique Jones About the Guest: Monique Jones is a pastor and the Director of Outreach and Community Engagement at the St. James Food Pantry, part of the Squire Jahagan Outreach Center, a non-profit arm of St. James, the oldest African American church in Northwest Arkansas. With a poignant history in Human Resources, including a 25-year stint of notable work that led her to...
NWA Transplant Series: James Hawkins Discusses Mental Health and the Importance of Seeking Support
April 29, 2024 13:30 - 57 minutes - 39.2 MBAbout the Show: "There's a lot of culture here in Northwest Arkansas even then. So what I ran into in my job at that time, I worked with a lot of business leaders, the church community, but also I worked with what they identified themselves as the hillbilly community." James Hawkins About the Guest: James Hawkins is a seasoned therapist and the clinical coordinator for the Joshua Center. With a depth of experience in psychology and counseling, James holds a Master's Degree and a PhD in h...
Fayetteville High School Football Coach Casey Dick Reflects on Championship Season
April 22, 2024 13:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MBAbout the Show: "When they walk through that door, there are no differences. That's what we want to drive home." Casey Dick About the Guest: Casey Dick is a prominent figure in high school sports, known for his illustrious career both on and off the field. With roots in Allen, Texas, Dick has a storied background as a former quarterback for the University of Arkansas (U of A), where he was a three-year starter and letterman. Post his active sports career, Dick has made a significant tran...
NWA Transplant Series: Chef Michael Robertshaw Shares His Journey to Opening Pizzeria Ruby
April 15, 2024 13:30 - 43 minutes - 29.8 MBAbout the Show: "I just wanted something a little more out of it, something a little more spiritual. But I think food is just one of those things that you can touch people's lives with everything you do every day." Michael Robertshaw About the Guest: Chef Michael Robertshaw is a seasoned culinary expert with deep roots in the New England culinary tradition, particularly from the Boston area. With a professional journey spanning various locations, including Seattle, Michael has a history ...
NWA Transplant Series: Nick and Meredith Castin Share Their Journey from Southern California to Northwest Arkansas
April 08, 2024 14:00 - 49 minutes - 34 MBAbout the Show: "If you're not growing, you're dying. Nothing's going to stay the same forever." Nick Castin About the Guests: Nick and Meredith Castin, a dynamic couple originally from San Diego, have made the picturesque Northwest Arkansas their new home. Meredith, with strong roots in Northeast Texas, aspired to be closer to family and sought out a community that resonates with warmth, connection, and a sense of belonging. Nick, accustomed to the vibes of Southern California, embarked...
NWA Transplant Series: Introduction with Kyle Kellams
April 04, 2024 13:00 - 32 minutes - 29.7 MBAbout the Show: "What percentage do you think are people who have moved here within the last ten years?" Kyle Kellams About the Guest: In this episode, host Randy Wilburn is joined by Kyle Kellams, the well-known voice behind KUAF 91.3 FM's "Ozarks at Large." Kyle's seasoned experience as a radio host and interviewer brings a unique perspective to the conversation, offering insights into the power of community storytelling. His deep connection with Northwest Arkansas, stemming from his e...
Ozark Beer Company: Brewing Tradition and Building Community in Northwest Arkansas
April 01, 2024 13:30 - 46 minutes - 31.8 MBAbout the Show: "We always feel like we're working very hard... I think we feel immensely grateful to have ended up in Northwest Arkansas." Lacie Bray About the Guest: Lacie Bray is a co-owner and visionary behind Ozark Beer Company, a craft brewery based in the Ozarks, celebrating the intersection of traditional brewing styles and community building. Together with her husband, Andy Coates, they founded Ozark Beer Company in 2013, which is renowned for its sustainable brewing practices a...
Capturing Essence: BLK ELK Media's Visual Storytelling in NWA
March 25, 2024 13:30 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MBAbout the Show: "The stories we tell are the legacies we leave behind." - Daniel Mitchell In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Daniel Mitchell and Trent Sugg, the visionary co-founders of Blk Elk Media. From humble beginnings to award-winning content creators, Daniel and Trent share their journey through the world of outdoor and adventure filmmaking. Their passion for capturing the essence of the natural state and beyond has led them to the pinnac...
From Farm to Fork: How Spring Creek Food Hub Supports Local Agriculture in Northwest Arkansas
March 18, 2024 14:00 - 48 minutes - 33.5 MBAbout the Show: "Feeding the community is not just about sustenance, but about nurturing a sense of togetherness and resilience through local efforts." - Anthony Mirisciotta About the Guest: Anthony Mirisciotta is the Executive Director of the Spring Creek Food Hub, which operates in Northwest Arkansas with a focus on addressing food insecurity and supporting local agriculture. With a rich background in farming and food systems, Anthony brings years of experience from managing organic fa...
Second Chances in the Ozarks: Nick Robbins' Mission of Hope with Returning Home
March 11, 2024 14:00 - 45 minutes - 30.9 MBAbout the Show: In this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas, host Randy Wilburn is joined by the compassionate and dedicated Nick Robbins, Executive Director of Returning Home. Nick, a beacon of second chances, shares the expansion of the organization and its profound impact on individuals transitioning from incarceration back into the community. With Returning Home's new facility in Huntsville, Nick is at the forefront of combating recidivism and fostering a culture of support and growth fo...
Teeing Up Literacy: The Reading the Greens Event at Fayetteville Public Library
March 07, 2024 14:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MBAbout the Show: "The Fayetteville Public Library is so much more than a place to check out a book." - Christina Karnatz In this special episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn shines a spotlight on the Fayetteville Public Library, a cornerstone of the community that has touched countless lives with its transformative programs and resources. Randy shares his personal connection to the library and invites two esteemed guests, George Shelton and Christina Carnatz,...
Through the Lens of Love: Meredith Mashburn's Photographic Mission in the Heartland
March 04, 2024 14:00 - 48 minutes - 33 MBAbout the Show: "The art of photography really just comes from connection." - Meredith Mashburn In this episode Randy Wilburn delves into the evocative world of photography with Meredith Mashburn, a local artist whose lens captures more than mere images—it captures stories. Meredith, a seasoned photographer, shares her journey from a 12-year-old aspiring photographer to a professional capturing the essence of Northwest Arkansas's evolution. Join us as Meredith reveals her intimate conne...
A Dream Realized: Alice Gachuzo-Colin's Civic Engagement and Community Roots in NWA
February 26, 2024 14:34 - 41 minutes - 28.7 MBAbout the Show: "Engagement in our communities shapes the foundation of our society, nurturing the seeds of change and growth for a better tomorrow." - Alice Gachuzo-Colin Join Randy as he connects with the inspiring Alice Gachuzo-Colin, a Springdale resident who has made a profound impact on her community through civic engagement and advocacy. From her humble beginnings in upstate New York to her transformative journey in the Ozarks, Alice recounts her decision to run for Springdale City...
Discover Anela Malik's Transformation: From Diplomacy to Digital Influence – Listen and Learn Her Secrets!
February 19, 2024 14:00 - 50 minutes - 34.8 MBAbout the Show: "Exploring the world enriches us with experiences that resonate beyond borders, connecting us through the universal language of human curiosity and adventure." - Anela Malik In today’s episode, Randy Wilburn embarks on a journey of discovery with the well-traveled and insightful Anela Malik. A former U.S. diplomat turned influencer, Anela shares her transition from diplomacy to digital storytelling, revealing her unique perspective on the world through her platform, Feed t...
Fashion with Purpose: Support Inclusivity and Education at NWA Fashion Week
February 15, 2024 14:30 - 17 minutes - 11.9 MBAbout the Show: "We provide creative support, highlights, and career development for people in the creative industry." Rochelle Bailey In this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas podcast, our host Randy Wilburn spotlights the upcoming Northwest Arkansas Fashion Week. Joining him is the dynamic Rochelle Bailey, Marketing Communications Manager at INTERFORM, who shares the exciting details of the event and the significant impact it has on our local community. Get ready to mark your calenda...
The Rhythm of Change: Music Moves Inspiring Students Through Arts Education
February 12, 2024 13:30 - 50 minutes - 34.3 MBAbout the Show: "Music is a universal language that knows no boundaries and has the power to unite us all." - Anthony Ball In this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Anthony Ball and Reginald James, the dynamic duo behind Music Moves. These passionate advocates for black music are on a mission to enlighten Northwest Arkansas and beyond about the rich history and influence of black music in America. From the classroom to the concert stage, Anthony and R...
From Angola to Fame - How Lead Belly Sung His Way to Musical Greatness
February 05, 2024 13:30 - 55 minutes - 37.8 MBAbout the Show: “Lead Belly was an instrumentalist, a storyteller, and a fighter. He was someone who gave us stories about what was going on in America at the time.” - Alvin Singh Alvin Singh discovered his deep family connection to the legendary musician Lead Belly through a surprising twist of fate. Growing up, he had no idea about his great uncle's influential role in shaping the music world. It wasn't until later in life that Alvin unearthed this remarkable family history, which ope...
Souping up Support: How Soup Sunday Fuels Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families
February 01, 2024 13:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBAbout the Show: “It’s for the most important of causes, which is to make sure that every kid in Arkansas has a chance to succeed.” Clint Schaff Summary In this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast, you will hear from Missy Kincaid and Clint Schaff, who are deeply involved with the Arkansas Advocate for Children and Families. They share insights about the organization's mission to support kids and families in Arkansas, discussing their annual Soup Sunday event, an important fund...
Developing Tomorrow's Leaders in Northwest Arkansas: The Soar's Afterschool Program
January 29, 2024 14:00 - 48 minutes - 33.2 MBAbout the Show: "We believe that all students, every single student, has the capacity to be a leader, not just in school, not just in these big leadership opportunities, but in their homes, in their communities.” - Ellie Hoyt Join Randy Wilburn as he connects with Ellie Hoyt, the enthusiastic Director of Development at Soar's Afterschool program. This engaging episode dives into the heart of Soar's mission: empowering young minds through the unique Soar Amazing Shake competition. List...
Laugh and Learn with the Frisco Kid: Uncover the Power of Comedy in Northwest Arkansas - Tune In Now!
January 22, 2024 14:00 - 52 minutes - 35.9 MBAbout the Show: "I have a talent for finding common ground with people. I figure out what they like and dig into it, connecting on a deeper level. Whether it's at a show or in life, I want to make sure nobody feels left out.” - Francisco Valencia Meet Francisco Valencia: Discover the journey of Francisco, affectionately known as the Frisco Kid, in the Northwest Arkansas comedy circuit. Inspiration from George Lopez: Learn how a standup show featuring George Lopez ignited Francisco's pa...
Exploring the Artistic Vision of Northwest Arkansas with Shannon Jones, Theater Squared's Trailblazing Executive Director
January 15, 2024 14:00 - 53 minutes - 36.6 MBAbout the Show: "We need art in our lives in order to be fully fulfilled.” - Shannon Jones, Theater Squared Meet Shannon Jones, the dynamic new executive director of Theater Squared, who's reshaping the arts scene in Northwest Arkansas with her unique blend of experience, passion, and visionary leadership. Background and Experience: Shannon Jones is the new leader of Theater Squared, armed with a BFA in stage management from the University of Central Florida. She has extensive experien...
Discover Culinary Passion: Join Maudie Schmitt's Journey from New Orleans Roots to NWA Restaurant Success
January 08, 2024 14:15 - 52 minutes - 36 MBAbout the Show: "You have to grab onto those ideas that come to you and make them happen.” - Chef Maudie Schmitt Embark on a flavorful journey with Chef Maudie Schmitt, as we delve into her inspiring transition from a childhood filled with the rich culinary culture of New Orleans to becoming a celebrated restaurant owner in Northwest Arkansas. Early Influences in New Orleans Maudie Schmitt's path to restaurant ownership began in an environment rich in culinary tradition. Raised above ...
Join Us for The Northwest Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Council Weekend 2024
January 05, 2024 21:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MBAbout the Show: "It's an opportunity to cherish the people around you. The only way you can really start to cherish people's humanity is you've got to engage with them. It may make you uncomfortable, and the only way to do that, you have to challenge yourself. And then that brings about true change.” - Chris Seawood In this episode, we delve into the essential nature of the NWA Martin Luther King Jr. Council and their weekend of celebrations around the birthday of Dr. King here in North...
Transforming Pain into Purpose: Discover Dr. Bri Biehl-Jackson's Chiropractic Journey
January 01, 2024 13:30 - 45 minutes - 31.5 MBAbout the Show: "I stood up, and that was the first time I was pain-free in eight months. Ain't no way. This man just did this random stuff to me and I am better.” - Dr. Bri Biehl-Jackson Dr. Bri Biehl-Jackson's story begins with a personal struggle. At 19, she suffered a debilitating back injury, facing the daunting prospect of spinal surgery. This experience set her on a quest for alternative solutions to regain her quality of life. Her journey took an unexpected turn when she discov...
New Year, New Opportunities: Reflecting and Rising Together in Northwest Arkansas
December 25, 2023 13:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MBAbout the Show: "Remember no man is a failure who has friends ” - Clarence the Angel, It’s a Wonderful Life In this inspiring episode of the "I am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, Randy Wilburn takes a moment to reflect on the journey and transformative impact of the show. He shares a heartfelt message of gratitude towards the supportive community and organizations in Northwest Arkansas. A key highlight of the episode is the introduction of Onboard NWA, a new job board initiative. This inno...
Unwrapping Success: The Black Paper Party Story from Shark Tank to Cultural Celebration
December 18, 2023 14:00 - 54 minutes - 37.5 MBAbout the Show: "Walmart's probably one of the greatest incubators for businesses.” - Jasmine Hudson In this episode of "I am Northwest Arkansas," we spotlight the innovative trio behind Black Paper Party: Jasmine Hudson, J'Aaron Merchant, and Madia Willis. While Madia couldn't join us, her role is pivotal in their venture, which is revolutionizing holiday celebrations with a focus on cultural representation. Jasmine and J'Aaron, who are here to share their journey, have masterfully ble...
Exploring the Magic of Independent Bookstores in Northwest Arkansas: A Conversation with Daniel and Leah Jordan of Pearl's Books
December 11, 2023 14:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MBAbout the Show: "Amazon may have the market, but what they can't replicate is the serendipity of walking into a bookstore and discovering something unexpected.” - Daniel Jordan In the captivating episode 247 of the "I am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, hosts Daniel Jordan and Leah Jordan, the dynamic owners of Pearl's Books, sit down with Randy Wilburn to unveil their inspiring journey in the world of independent bookstores. Their story is nothing short of a superhero origin, and they offer...
How to Foster Belonging in Northwest Arkansas: Insights from Margot Lemaster, Monica Kumar, and the Northwest Arkansas Council
December 07, 2023 13:00 - 47 minutes - 32.7 MBAbout the Show: "Connection is the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued.” - Brene Brown In this insightful bonus episode of "I am Northwest Arkansas," host Randy Wilburn welcomes Margot Lemaster and Monica Kumar to discuss the Welcoming Week NWA initiative. This initiative plays a crucial role in enhancing community inclusivity and diversity in Northwest Arkansas. Margot Lemaster, a key figure in Engage NWA since 2017, shares her experiences in foster...
Elevating Artistry: Kenneth Webb and the Vibrant Maker Community in Northwest Arkansas
December 04, 2023 13:30 - 39 minutes - 26.8 MBAbout the Show: "Your story does matter if nobody's told you before. It really does.” - Randy Wilburn In episode 246 of the "I am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, host Randy delves into the fascinating world of bladesmithing with Kenneth Webb, the artist and owner of Webb Blades. Kenneth Webb is a true craftsman who has found his calling in the vibrant maker community of Northwest Arkansas. Kenneth's journey into the realm of bladesmithing began with a profound passion for creating bespoke ...
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: Understanding the Arkansas Asian Business Community with Yang Luo-Branch
November 27, 2023 13:00 - 42 minutes - 29.1 MBAbout the Show: "There are global opportunities in business, and most of those opportunities emanate from right here in Arkansas.” - Randy Wilburn In Episode 245 of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, Randy Wilburn engages in a captivating discussion with Yang Luo-Branch, President of the Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses, and board member Michael Mourot. They delve into the dynamic landscape of the Arkansas Asian business community. Yang Luo-Branch shares her inspiring journey ...
Unlocking Specialized Pediatric Care in Northwest Arkansas with Shannon Hendrix
November 20, 2023 13:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MBAbout the Show: "Our patient experience is a priority for us, and we've created an atmosphere that families and patients remember when they leave. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the dedication and compassion of our entire team, and that's what sets us apart.” - Shannon Hendrix In Episode 244 of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn welcomes Shannon Hendrix, the Senior VP and Chief Administrator at Children's Hospital. Shannon shares her journey in the medical...
Affordable Education for All: NWACC's Commitment to Empowering Students with President Dennis Rittle
November 13, 2023 13:00 - 1 hour - 43.7 MBAbout the Show: "Surround yourself with people that are going to encourage you, celebrate you, and join with you in the journey to make your life better. That's what we do at NWACC.” - President Dennis Rittle Join us for an engaging episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast, where host Randy Wilburn sits down with Dennis Rittle, the President of Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC). In this episode, President Rittle illuminates NWACC's commitment to providing accessible and ...
Building a Bright Future: How the ULI Young Leaders Group in Northwest Arkansas is Shaping the Real Estate Industry with Kaitlyn Fondano
November 06, 2023 14:00 - 36 minutes - 25.3 MBAbout the Show: "Each successive generation that comes out will do even greater things than the generation before it.” - Kaitlyn Fondano In the latest episode of the "I Am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, host Randy Wilburn talks to Kaitlyn Fondano, Director of the Young Leaders Group (YLG) at the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Northwest Arkansas. Kaitlyn shares her journey to Northwest Arkansas and her passion for fostering vibrant, sustainable communities through the YLG. The YLG is a melting...
Unlock the Power of Shop Small Y'all: Supporting Local Businesses in Northwest Arkansas - Tori Bogner and Jennifer Esty
November 01, 2023 15:30 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MBAbout the Show: "Every small purchase at a local business has a ripple effect, helping to sustain jobs, drive economic growth, and create a thriving community.” - Tori P. Bogner In a recent episode of the "I Am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, Randy Wilburn sits down with Tori Bogner, Senior VP of Marketing at Signature Bank, and Jennifer Esty, owner of the Scout Guide in Northwest Arkansas. The trio delves into the "Shop Small Y'all" program, a unique collaboration between Signature Bank an...
Finding Success in Horseback Riding and Business: Insights from Christy Zweig Niehues
October 30, 2023 15:00 - 43 minutes - 30.2 MBAbout the Show: "Even though I kept trying to take breaks, riding horses remained a huge part of my life that I never wanted to lose. It’s a passion that infects you and never leaves.” - Christy Zweig Niehues Welcome to another episode of the "I am Northwest Arkansas" podcast. In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Christy Zweig Niehues, the owner of Always August Farm, a standout horse training and boarding business right here in Northwest Arkansas. Christy opens up abo...
Safe Water for All: Dave LeVan and Lifewater's Fight Against the Global Water Crisis
October 23, 2023 14:00 - 42 minutes - 29.3 MBAbout the Show: "People are people, and we're just coming alongside to help. It's not about a quick fix, but about creating real, lasting change for families and communities.” - Dave LeVan From Walmart executive to Lifewater CEO, Dave LeVan's story is a journey filled with purpose and a focus on global impact. Infused with a unique blend of corporate know-how, global insights, and a deep-rooted sense of altruism, Dave found his true calling in enhancing the lives of communities across t...
Creating Accessible Communities: Mark Conine Discusses the Future of Affordable Housing in Northwest Arkansas
October 16, 2023 14:00 - 47 minutes - 32.4 MBAbout the Show: "Let's keep moving that needle and getting more affordable units on the ground. Hitting singles may not be home runs, but eventually, we'll score runs and make a big impact.” - Mark Conine In this episode of "I am Northwest Arkansas," we're thrilled to introduce you to Mark Conine, a lifelong Arkansan and a true leader with a passion for affordable housing. Mark's journey began as a CPA, but he's now making a significant impact as the President of the Arkansas Development...
Turning Waste Into Wealth: How Ricky Ludeman is Pioneering Community Sustainability with Ozark Compost and Swap
October 09, 2023 14:00 - 43 minutes - 29.8 MBAbout the Show: "We need to be doing everything that we can at this moment to provide a healthy environment and to give back to Mother Earth, all of which we have been stripping from her on a regular basis.” - Ricky Ludeman In a timely episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Ricky Ludeman, the forward-thinking founder of Ozark Compost and Swap. Ricky isn't your average entrepreneur; he's a man on a mission to turn food waste into gold—well, into ...
Transform Your Health with Plant-Based Living in Northwest Arkansas - Insights from Dr. Craig Keever
October 02, 2023 14:00 - 51 minutes - 35.1 MBDISCLAIMER: The contents of this episode are intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. About the Show: "The plant-based diet is not just for the well-to-do. Beans and rice are about the cheapest things you can get.” - Dr. Craig Keever In this captivating episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn welcomes not just one, but two special guest...
Fueling the Soccer Movement: USL Arkansas's Strategy to Establish a Premier Soccer Franchise in Northwest Arkansas - Chris Martinovic, Wes Harris
September 25, 2023 14:00 - 56 minutes - 38.5 MBAbout the Show: "We have a great community. We have so much to offer and we are offering more and more every single day. But as we continue to try to attract and retain top-level talent, having things like professional sports is a great additive element to that community.” - Chris Martinovic In the latest episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Chris Martinovic and Wes Harris to unpack the ambitious plans of USL Arkansas. The franchise aims to ch...
Charging Ahead: Driving the Growth of Electric Vehicles in Northwest Arkansas with the NWA Council
September 18, 2023 16:00 - 46 minutes - 31.8 MBAbout the Show: "Electric vehicles and electric bikes are not only a mode of transportation, but also a way to benefit our environment. By embracing these green alternatives, we can make a positive impact on our planet and create a more sustainable future.” - Rob Smith In this compelling episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn is joined by Rob Smith, Gary Berger, and Kris Williams to explore the electric vehicle (EV) movement taking shape in Northwest Arkansas—...
Building a Thriving Healthcare Ecosystem: Collaborative Efforts in Northwest Arkansas with Ryan Cork and Walter Harris
September 11, 2023 14:09 - 47 minutes - 32.4 MBAbout the Show: "Just be patient. It's coming. We are building that field of dreams that we've been talking about when it comes to healthcare, and it's coming slowly but surely.” - Ryan Cork Get ready for an enlightening episode as we collaborate with the Northwest Arkansas Council to bring you face-to-face with healthcare game-changers Ryan Cork and Walter Harris. We dive into the innovative ways Northwest Arkansas is revolutionizing healthcare. Unpacking Healthcare Innovation with Rya...