The 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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From Tacos to Barbecue: Doug Riverman Allen's Next Chapter in Eureka Springs
Épisode 302
lundi 27 janvier 2025 • Durée 40:38
About the Show:
"The opportunity to take your passion for food and community and turn it into a thriving business is a journey filled with challenges and rewards."
Doug Riverman Allen
In this exciting episode of I am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn welcomes back Doug Riverman Allen, a beloved entrepreneur and storyteller from Northwest Arkansas. Doug shares his journey from running Jose's Bar and Grill to embarking on a new adventure with Bubba's Barbecue in Eureka Springs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the local restaurant scene, entrepreneurship, and the beauty of community engagement.
About the Guest:
Doug Riverman Allen is a dedicated restaurateur known for his passion for great food and community involvement. Owner of Jose's Bar and Grill in Taneytown and the newly acquired Bubba's Barbecue in Eureka Springs, Doug has built a reputation for resilience and creativity in the face of challenges. His love for storytelling and the natural beauty of Northwest Arkansas is evident in his work and community initiatives.
Episode Summary:
Join Randy Wilburn as he sits down with Doug Riverman Allen to discuss his latest venture, Bubba's Barbecue, and the significance of Eureka Springs in his life. Doug reflects on the lessons learned during the pandemic, his commitment to community service, and his passion for preserving the natural beauty of the Kings River. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of running two restaurants, the importance of building a strong team, and Doug's dedication to teaching young people about fishing through his Riverman School for Kids. Listeners will gain insights into the spirit of entrepreneurship and the value of giving back to the community.
Key Takeaways:
Resilience in Business: Doug's journey showcases the importance of perseverance and creativity in navigating the challenges of the restaurant industry.
Community Engagement: The significance of giving back to the community and supporting local initiatives is a central theme in Doug's work.
Passion for Nature: Doug emphasizes the importance of conserving natural resources and sharing that passion with the next generation through fishing programs.
Team Building: The success of a restaurant relies heavily on building a strong, dedicated team and fostering a positive work environment.
Local Flavor: Eureka Springs is highlighted as a vibrant community with unique dining experiences and a rich cultural heritage.
All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Transforming Minds: Tammy Michelle Perry's Dedication to Support NWA's Mental Health Landscape
Épisode 301
lundi 20 janvier 2025 • Durée 56:16
About the Show:
"Having a baby doesn't make you a good parent. Be present, first of all, and listen to them."
Tammy Michelle Perry
In this heartfelt episode of I am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn engages in a profound conversation with Tammy Michelle Perry, a dedicated mental health professional working with Rogers Public Schools and Orissa Health. Tammy's passion for mental health advocacy shines through as she shares her experiences, insights, and the importance of addressing mental health issues among young people in Northwest Arkansas.
About the Guest:
Tammy Michelle Perry is a committed mental health professional with a rich history in education and counseling. Working with Arisa Health and Rogers Public Schools, Tammy has dedicated her career to supporting young people and their families in navigating the complexities of mental health. Her deep roots in Northwest Arkansas and personal journey bring a unique perspective to the challenges and triumphs of mental health advocacy in the region.
Episode Summary:
Join Randy Wilburn as he sits down with Tammy Michelle Perry to discuss the critical topic of mental health in the Northwest Arkansas community. Tammy shares her personal history, her family's legacy in the region, and her professional journey dedicated to mental health advocacy. The conversation touches on the historical and cultural shifts in Fayetteville, the importance of mental health awareness, and practical advice for parents and caregivers in supporting young people. Tammy's insights offer a powerful reminder of the need for community support and understanding in addressing mental health challenges.
Key Takeaways:
Mental Health Awareness: The importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues among young people in the community.
Community and History: Tammy's deep connection to Northwest Arkansas and her family's legacy provides a rich historical context for understanding the region's cultural shifts.
Educational Impact: Tammy highlights the need for educational systems to evolve and better support students' mental and emotional well-being.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
From Mozart to Gershwin: A Melodic Journey with SoNA
Épisode 300
lundi 13 janvier 2025 • Durée 42:20
About the Show:
"We're a traditional symphony orchestra, usually around between 60 and 70 musicians on stage playing classic repertoire like your Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, that type of thing, as well as a lot of music by composers that have been sort of historically overlooked."
Ben Harris
About the Guest(s):
Cory Mixdorf is the Principal Trombonist for the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas (SoNA) and a Professor of Music at the University of Arkansas. With 12 years in the region, Cory has made significant contributions to the local music scene, nurturing the next generation of musicians and performing a wide range of classical and contemporary works.
Ben Harris is the Executive Director of the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas. His background as a musician and extensive experience in the performing arts enables him to lead SoNA with a focus on community engagement, education, and cultural enrichment.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas® podcast, host Randy Wilburn brings back key figures from the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas—Cory Mixdorf and Ben Harris—to explore the vibrancy and value of the local music scene. The discussion centers around SoNA's impactful educational programs, significant upcoming performances, and the broader cultural influence the symphony holds within the region.
The Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, under the leadership of Ben Harris and the musical expertise of Cory Mixdorf, is a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in the Ozarks. They delve into the symphony's history, its educational outreach through programs like SoNA Mentors, and its vital role in fostering talent within Northwest Arkansas. The episode highlights SoNA's diverse repertoire, including classic and contemporary pieces, and emphasizes its community impact. Ben discusses the orchestra's plans, challenges, and the search for a new music director, all contributing to NWA's exciting and evolving musical future.
Key Takeaways:
Community Integration: SoNA plays a crucial role in the cultural and educational landscape of Northwest Arkansas, offering significant outreach programs such as SoNA Mentors.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Empowering Women's Health: Elizabeth Prenger's Journey with Assicle and Femme Health Founders
Épisode 299
lundi 6 janvier 2025 • Durée 58:35
About the Show:
"The opportunity to not only help women feel better during that moment in time but to make them laugh and appreciate and feel loved and feel seen and heard is priceless."
- Elizabeth Prenger
In this inspiring episode of I am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Elizabeth Prenger, a remarkable entrepreneur making waves in the women's health space. Elizabeth shares her journey from political campaigns to nonprofit work, and how her diverse experiences led her to create the innovative postpartum recovery product, the Assicle. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, particularly aspiring female entrepreneurs seeking encouragement and insight into navigating the startup world.
About the Guest:
Elizabeth Prenger is the founder of the Assicle, a groundbreaking product designed to aid postpartum recovery. With a background in political and nonprofit sectors, Elizabeth transitioned into entrepreneurship, driven by a personal need to address gaps in women's health solutions. She is also a co-founder of Femme Health Founders, an initiative aimed at supporting early-stage femtech startups through tailored resources and community building.
Episode Summary
Elizabeth Prenger discusses her entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of launching a product in the women's health market. From her early career in politics and nonprofit work to discovering the vibrant startup ecosystem in Northwest Arkansas, Elizabeth shares valuable insights into the importance of community, networking, and perseverance. She also introduces the Assicle, a reusable product designed to aid in postpartum recovery, and emphasizes the need for more resources and support for female entrepreneurs in the femtech space.
Key Takeaways:
Entrepreneurial Journey: Elizabeth's diverse career path highlights the importance of gaining varied experiences and leveraging them in entrepreneurship.
Innovation in Women's Health: The Assicle addresses a significant gap in postpartum recovery products, emphasizing the need for solutions designed by women for women.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Best of I am Northwest Arkansas®- Empowering Change: The Northwest Arkansas Blueprint for Eradicating Homelessness
lundi 30 décembre 2024 • Durée 01:00:47
About the Show:
This week, we revisit a powerful episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas® featuring Becci Sisson, CEO of 7hills Homeless Center, and Will Roth, President of the Center's Board. Together, they explore the growing issue of homelessness in Northwest Arkansas and share inspiring stories of hope, transformation, and the impact of community collaboration.
Becci brings years of nonprofit leadership and firsthand experience addressing the needs of underserved populations. Will's dedication as a board leader exemplifies his commitment to tackling housing insecurity through advocacy and action. Their combined efforts highlight the pivotal role of 7hills Homeless Center in providing shelter, meals, personal care, and case management services that empower individuals on their journey to self-sufficiency.
Episode Highlights:
Community Matters: Becci and Will emphasize the importance of collective empathy and involvement in addressing homelessness effectively.
Holistic Solutions:7hills Homeless Center offers not just immediate assistance but also tools for long-term success.
Inspiring Outcomes: Learn how lives have been transformed through the support of 7hills Homeless Center.
A Blueprint for Change: The Center is working toward a replicable model to combat homelessness, both locally and beyond.
Get Involved: Discover practical ways to support 7hills Homeless Center’s mission, from volunteering to donations.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
A Year of Gratitude and Growth: Reflecting on 2024 in Northwest Arkansas
Épisode 298
lundi 23 décembre 2024 • Durée 44:57
About the Show:
"It's also a reminder to me of how important it is for all of us. No matter what, every one of us has a platform of sorts."
Randy Wilburn
About the Guest:
Randy Wilburn is the host of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, which explores the intersection of business, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. His background as an independent podcast producer is marked by his passion for storytelling and community engagement. Randy actively highlights the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, cultural richness, and societal issues like food insecurity and homelessness in Northwest Arkansas. He often collaborates with local leaders, businesses, and organizations to bring awareness to these issues through his podcast platform.
Episode Summary:
In this heartfelt episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas, host Randy Wilburn reflects on the region's milestones throughout 2024, expressing gratitude and recapping the diverse themes and stories covered. As listeners prepare for the holiday season, Randy underscores the importance of storytelling, community impact, and entrepreneurial growth that defines Northwest Arkansas. The podcast serves as a platform to share stories of transformation and hope with a focus on community, business, culture, and entrepreneurship.
Randy discusses various pivotal episodes from 2024, emphasizing significant themes like addressing food insecurity, homelessness, sustainability, and cultural vibrancy. Key highlights include discussions with local organizations like Potter's House and Ozark Natural Foods, tackling food scarcity, innovative businesses like Freight Relay, and the construction of energy-efficient homes by The Stitt Group. He lauds the efforts of community leaders, businesses, and listeners for their unwavering support and contributions, further encouraging them to continue fostering an inclusive and vibrant ecosystem. Randy concludes with acknowledgments and looks forward to new initiatives, including potential daily segments, to enhance the podcast's offerings in 2025.
Key Takeaways:Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Transforming Lives and Communities: How Potter’s House Bridges the Gap Through Purpose-Driven Impact
Épisode 297
lundi 16 décembre 2024 • Durée 52:17
About the Show:
"Our mission is to love Jesus and bring a community together. At the heart of everything we do is relationships—relationships that connect and strengthen our community across socioeconomic and cultural lines."
Shawn Schwartzman
About the Guest:
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Shawn Schwartzman, the President and Founder of Potter’s House. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Potter’s House is much more than a thrift store; it’s a beacon of hope and connection, fostering relationships across diverse socioeconomic and cultural groups. This inspiring conversation highlights the importance of proximity and community engagement in addressing poverty, inequality, and social disconnection.
Episode Summary:
This engaging episode explores the journey of Potter’s House, a nonprofit organization combining community programs and thrift stores to fund initiatives that strengthen Northwest Arkansas. Shawn shares the challenges and triumphs of creating spaces where people from different backgrounds can connect meaningfully.
The conversation also delves into Potter’s House’s recent acquisition of the historic Jefferson Elementary School, which will be transformed into a vibrant community hub. From its preschool program preparing children for kindergarten to leadership programs for teens and adult groups, Potter’s House focuses on building relationships and fostering upward mobility.
Shawn and Randy discuss the importance of proximity to those in need and the unique ability of Northwest Arkansas to foster a sense of belonging. This episode offers a powerful look at how one organization transforms lives through community-driven innovation.
Key Takeaways:
Transformative Relationships: Potter’s House bridges gaps across socioeconomic and cultural lines, fostering deep and impactful relationships.
Dual Purpose Model: Thrift store operations not only provide affordable goods but also fund 75% of the organization’s programs, creating a sustainable impact.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Discover How Neighborly Food Co. & Bret Raymond Build a Purpose-Driven Brand in NWA—100% of Profits Fighting Hunger!
Épisode 296
lundi 9 décembre 2024 • Durée 54:21
About the Show:
"I'm a CPA by trade, and my background was in audit and doing financial analysis."
Bret Raymond
About the Guest:
Bret Raymond is the co-founder and CEO of PacShack and the General Manager of Neighborly Food Co. With a foundational career as a CPA focused on audit and financial analysis, Bret's life changed dramatically through his international experiences in Romania and Africa, notably in Uganda and Rwanda. These experiences in sustainable economic development and malnutrition treatment inspired his transition into food production. Through his work with Manna Nutrition and the Pack Shack, Bret has championed local and global initiatives to address food insecurity, reaching significant milestones such as producing 50 million meals. He is now paving new paths in retail with Neighborly, a mission-driven food company dedicated to producing nutritious, culturally infused rice and bean meals while supporting local communities.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Bret Raymond, CEO of PacShack and General Manager of Neighborly, to explore the journey from CPA to impact-driven entrepreneur in the food industry. The episode unveils how Bret's transformative experiences in Uganda and Rwanda fueled his mission to combat food insecurity through the Pack Shack, ultimately leading to Neighborly Food Co., a socially conscious food brand. With a focus on providing affordable, allergen-free, and flavor-infused rice and bean meals, Bret discusses how Neighborly aims to revolutionize the staple foods market while dedicating 100% of its profits to feeding neighbors in need, resembling the impact model of Newman's Own.
As Bret outlines his strategic growth from local beginnings at Ozark Natural Foods to gaining shelf space in Walmart stores, listeners gain insight into the persistent innovations behind Neighborly's products. Highlighting both the rewarding and daunting aspects of retail entry, Bret emphasizes the importance of community support, local sourcing, and an unwavering commitment to quality and taste. The conversation also delves into the entrepreneurial spirit fostered by Northwest Arkansas, underscoring how the region’s wealth of CPG expertise and its community-driven ethos provided Bret with a fertile ground for launching and scaling mission-driven ventures like Neighborly.
Key Takeaways:
100 Things to Do in Bentonville and Rogers Before You Die: A Bucket List with Connie Cottingham
Épisode 295
lundi 2 décembre 2024 • Durée 49:29
About the Show:
"I've seen Northwest Arkansas evolve over the past many years, and it's been fun to watch."
Connie Cottingham
About the Guest:
Connie Cottingham is a local author and resident of Northwest Arkansas, particularly from Rogers. She has roots in the area dating back to her childhood and has witnessed the region's growth firsthand. Connie recently published a book titled "100 Things to Do in Bentonville, Rogers Before You Die," which is a compilation that aims to capture the essence of experiences available in Bentonville and Rogers, Arkansas. Connie is also a garden and travel writer with a knack for uncovering local culture and history.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas, host Randy Wilburn welcomes local author Connie Cottingham to discuss her newly released book, "100 Things to Do in Bentonville, Rogers Before You Die." The podcast, recorded at the KUAF NPR affiliate radio station, delves into the vibrant crossroads of business, culture, entrepreneurship, and community life in the Ozarks, particularly focusing on the flourishing cities of Bentonville and Rogers, Arkansas. Randy and Connie discuss the rich historical landscape, cultural offerings, and the evolution of these cities over the years.
Connie Cottingham shares her journey of unearthing the diverse set of experiences, from dining and entertainment to parks and museums, that led to the creation of her book. She highlights the unique blend of nostalgia and modern growth in Northwest Arkansas, encapsulated in vibrant downtown areas and extensive cultural networks. The conversation underscores the interplay of art, history, and community that characterizes Bentonville and Rogers, making them attractive to residents and newcomers. Connie's engaging stories and insights provide a lens through which listeners can appreciate the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of this region.
Key Takeaways:
Cultural Richness: Bentonville and Rogers are home to numerous museums and cultural experiences that highlight local and broader American histories.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Addressing Homelessness in Northwest Arkansas: A Community Effort
Épisode 294
lundi 25 novembre 2024 • Durée 01:00:47
About the Show:
“So the amount of people that we see on a daily basis, it can average from 75 to 150. It depends on the season. It depends on the day of the month actually.”
Becci Sisson
About the Guest(s):
Becci Sisson is the CEO of Seven Hills Homeless Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She brings extensive experience working with nonprofit organizations and the homeless population, having previously been involved with the Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA, and the Roanoke Rescue Mission. Becci recently returned to her roots in Northwest Arkansas, where she primarily focuses on combating homelessness and providing services to the underserved in the community.
Will Roth is the President of the Board for Seven Hills Homeless Center. He has been involved with the organization for several years, providing leadership and advocating for more resources and awareness around the issue of homelessness. Will is committed to creating a more inclusive community in Northwest Arkansas by addressing critical needs like housing and homelessness.
Episode Summary:
In this special episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Becci Sisson, CEO of Seven Hills Homeless Center, and Will Roth, Board President, to discuss the pressing issue of homelessness in Northwest Arkansas. The conversation delves into the challenges and solutions surrounding homelessness, highlighting the importance of community involvement and proactive measures to address this growing concern within a thriving region. As both guests share their insights and experiences, listeners are invited to engage with the issue and consider how they can contribute to this cause.
Seven Hills Homeless Center plays a pivotal role in offering crucial services to the unsheltered population, providing resources like shelter, meals, and personal care needs. The episode underscores the significance of the Center’s efforts and how they aim to create a blueprint for addressing homelessness effectively. Becci Sisson and Will Roth emphasize the diverse and often personal stories of those affected by homelessness and the need for compassion, dedication, and sustained support to make a genuine difference. Discover how Northwest Arkansas could potentially lead the charge in eradicating homelessness with collaborative action and increased awareness.
Key Takeaways:Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Parental Guidance: Practical advice for parents and caregivers on connecting with and supporting their children through active listening and encouragement.
Personal Journey: Tammy's personal journey and professional dedication to mental health advocacy inspire listeners to prioritize mental health in their lives and communities.
All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their
Diverse Repertoire: The symphony's performances range from classic to modern compositions, providing something for every musical taste.
Educational Impact: By engaging with young musicians and offering them stage opportunities, SoNA fosters the next generation of musicians and listeners.
Dynamic Leadership: As SoNA searches for a new music director, the involvement and feedback of its audience are more valued than ever, showing the organization's commitment to its community.
Local Talent and Heritage: SoNA's programs often highlight composers with Arkansas roots, showcasing the region's rich cultural history.
All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Community and Support: Elizabeth underscores the value of community resources like Startup Junkie and the importance of peer-to-peer knowledge sharing among female entrepreneurs.
Challenges in Funding: The episode sheds light on the difficulties women face in securing funding for startups, particularly in the femtech space, and the critical role of female investors.
Femme Health Founders: Elizabeth's initiative aims to create a supportive ecosystem for early-stage Femtech startups, addressing the unique challenges faced by women in this industry.
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their
If you’re inspired by this episode and want to make a difference, consider supporting 7hills Homeless Center. Every contribution helps provide critical services to those in need. Click here to donate.
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
Community Programs: From preschool to leadership and adult groups, Potter’s House offers dynamic programs tailored to meet diverse needs in the community.
Jefferson Renewal: The Jefferson Elementary School project will serve as a hub for community engagement, offering spaces for education, collaboration, and growth.
Be Your Brother’s Keeper: Shawn emphasizes the importance of stepping out of comfort zones to connect with and support neighbors in need.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And,
Bret Raymond’s career transition from CPA in financial analysis to mission-driven entrepreneur began with impactful international experiences in Romania and Africa, leading to sustainable food solutions through PacShack and Neighborly.
The Pack Shack has provided over 50 million meals addressing food insecurity, demonstrating community-centric solutions for local and global hunger.
Neighborly Food Co. offers clean-label, plant-based meals aimed at introducing diverse global flavors through everyday staples while committing 100% of profits to support local communities.
Access to resources and expertise in Northwest Arkansas enables CPG entrepreneurs to innovate and succeed, as evidenced by Neighborly’s path from a local favorite to securing Walmart distribution.
Community Growth: The cities' vibrant downtowns and pedestrian-friendly spaces reflect significant economic and social development, supported by community collaboration.
Exploration Opportunity: Connie's book serves as a guide for residents and visitors to explore diverse attractions and hidden gems within Bentonville and Rogers.
Public Art and Nature: Public art trails and parks like Osage Park and Lake Atalanta are highlighted as prime examples of the region’s rich outdoor and artistic offerings.
Historical Perspective: There is a fascinating evolution in the region, from its early days with establishments like the first Walmart to today's modern amenities and infrastructure.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Community Engagement Is Key: Addressing homelessness in Northwest Arkansas requires active participation and empathy from the broader community.
Comprehensive Services: Seven Hills provides not just basic needs but also case management to help individuals regain self-sufficiency.
Success Stories Highlight Impact: Transformational stories, such as individuals overcoming homelessness through shelter and support, illustrate the program's effectiveness.
Long-term Vision: The goal is not only to address current needs but also to establish a sustainable model that other communities can replicate.
Volunteer and Support: There are multiple ways for community members to get involved with Seven Hills, from volunteering to making donations.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
