Paragould Podcast

Many people in Paragould know Michael Todd as Coach Todd. Others know him as Mr. Todd, their principal at Greene County Tech. In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Coach Todd to hear the story behind both roles. Originally from Parkin, Arkansas, Mike shares about his undefeated high school football season in 1979, earning a scholarship to play at Arkansas State, and the unexpected path that eventually led him to Paragould. What began as a coaching opportunity at Greene County Tech in 1990 turned into decades of impact as a football coach, teacher, and eventually a school administrator. We talk about the coaches and athletes who shaped those years, the transition from the field to school leadership, and what he learned about coaching young people along the way. Now in retirement, Mike has taken on a new challenge, losing 152 pounds, staying active by playing pickleball several hours a day, and focusing on healthier habits. Along the way, he shares a simple leadership philosophy that guided his career: Leadership is seeing the potential in others and helping them see it themselves. This is a great conversation about coaching, leadership, and the lasting influence of educators in a community like Paragould.

Robert and Jill Randolph did not take a straight path to Paragould. Jill worked in public health and food borne illness investigations with the CDC. Robert played football at the University of Virginia and later took a massive pay cut to start at the bottom inside a Chick-fil-A restaurant. Over the next several years, they navigated rejection, full time travel, leadership development assignments, and countless interviews before finally being selected as Owner/Operators. In this episode, they share what it takes to handle pressure, why character matters more than credentials, and what they looked for in the 700 interviews they conducted to hire their Paragould team. This is a conversation about resilience, preparation, humility, and the kind of consistency that builds something lasting.

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with John Bland to talk about the history and legacy of his father, Francis Bland, a man whose influence is still woven into the fabric of our city. From the widening of 8 Mile Creek to help prevent flooding, to Bland Baseball Park, to the Dr. Pepper plant that employed hundreds of local families, the Bland name has played a meaningful role in shaping Paragould. We also explore the lesser-known story of Francis Bland as a chemist who was interviewed for the Manhattan Project during World War II and how life unfolded from there. More than a history lesson, this is a conversation about family, leadership, work, and the quiet ways one life can leave a lasting impact on a community. If you love Paragould and the stories behind the people who helped build it, this episode is for you.

ob Branch returns for his sixth appearance on the podcast, tying the record for most guest appearances. This time, the conversation centers on aging. But not aging as defined by a calendar. Bob challenges the way we think about getting older, suggesting that age is less about the number of years behind us and more about the state of mind within us. His refrain is simple but powerful: don’t let the old man in. We talk about how culture has changed over the decades. There was a time when life moved slower. Now everything feels rushed, urgent, and accelerated. In the middle of that pace, Bob reflects on what it means to stay engaged, curious, and alive rather than drifting into passivity. At the heart of the episode is a personal resolve: I owe it to myself to get back out there. This conversation is about resilience, perspective, and refusing to surrender vitality just because the years keep moving forward. Whether you are 30 or 70, this episode will challenge the way you think about growing older.

We are honored to sit down with U.S. Congressman Rick Crawford for a thoughtful conversation about his journey from Arkansas to Washington, D.C. In this episode, Congressman Crawford shares about his background in military service and broadcasting, what led him to run for Congress, and the responsibility of representing Arkansas’s First Congressional District. We discuss the weight of serving a diverse region that stretches from North Central to Southeastern Arkansas, the issues he is most passionate about, and the importance of being well informed from all angles when making legislative decisions. This conversation offers insight into the realities of public service, leadership, and the challenges facing our state and nation. Whether you are deeply engaged in politics or simply curious about how federal leadership impacts everyday Arkansans, this episode provides an inside look at the work happening from the Delta to DC.

Chase Mann returns to the show fresh off a nationally televised fight in Thailand with ONE FC, available on Amazon Prime. In this unique episode, Chase shares the story of how his journey in MMA led him across the world to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages. Then Jared watches the fight live with Chase, who provides real-time commentary, insight, and reflection on what was going through his mind in the moment. It is a rare behind-the-scenes look at high-level MMA and a reminder that a world-class fighter can come from a place like Paragould.

You never really know the stories people carry until you take the time to listen. In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Curtis Cooksey and discover a life shaped by unexpected connections, unlikely opportunities, and a deep love for the game of baseball. Curtis’s journey has taken him through minor league clubhouses, college athletics, professional wrestling, and the world of umpiring, all through a series of “how’d you land that gig?” moments that were anything but planned. This conversation is about the hidden stories in our town, the power of relationships, and how curiosity and openness can lead to experiences you never saw coming. Also... this moment: https://youtube.com/shorts/Eh4eOfkgw6I?si=MiAY5aeOPXckeu4G

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, emergency preparedness, and public service in Greene County. Brad shares his journey from dispatcher to deputy to sheriff, including his experience working E-911 during the Marmaduke Tornado just one month into the job. We talk about how city and county agencies coordinate during severe weather and emergencies, how leaders plan manpower and resources before a crisis happens, and why strong collaboration matters more than ego or turf. The conversation also explores the human side of law enforcement—how officers and dispatchers process trauma, what makes a good candidate for the job, and why doing the right thing is often the hardest choice. Brad also shares his focus on improving conditions for employees and inmates at the Greene County Detention Center, managing one of the largest county jails in Arkansas, and leading a team split between patrol and detention responsibilities.

In this episode of the Paragould Podcast, we’re joined once again by Rusty McMillon, making his fourth appearance on the show. Judge McMillon helps clarify what the office of County Judge actually does, why he’s passionate about serving Greene County, and how that role impacts everyday life in our community. We also talk through recent updates around the county, leadership responsibilities, and what it looks like to serve well in a role that often works behind the scenes. If you’re curious about local government, care about the future of Greene County, or just enjoy thoughtful conversations about leadership and service, this episode is for you.

As rivalry week arrives in Paragould, Paragould Boys Head Basketball Coach Jace Watson joins The Paragould Podcast to talk leadership, preparation, and the culture behind Rams basketball. Coach Watson shares his journey into coaching, lessons learned over two decades on the sidelines, and how this team has grown to expect wins after years of adversity. With a big matchup against Greene County Tech looming, this conversation offers insight into motivation, managing pressure, and what it takes to build a winning program.

In this episode, we sit down with Olivia Hancock, a Paragould native and recent graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. Olivia shares her journey from competing in high school athletics to earning an appointment to one of the most demanding leadership institutions in the world. She walks us through the rigorous process of acceptance, the daily discipline required at West Point, and the leadership lessons learned through pressure, failure, and responsibility. Olivia reflects on the influence of her family, the role of faith in navigating rejection and uncertainty, and the importance of leading with integrity, confidence, and a clear way forward. Olivia offers a thoughtful perspective on character-driven leadership and why the journey matters more than the destination.

Mayor Josh Agee returns to The Paragould Podcast for his annual State of the City conversation — his sixth appearance on the show. In this episode, Josh walks us through what the City of Paragould has actually accomplished over the past year, how major decisions are made, and what’s shaping the city’s future. We talk about infrastructure projects like trail expansion, sidewalks, land bank redevelopment, and pocket parks, as well as the behind-the-scenes realities of public safety, disaster response, and city budgeting. Josh also reflects on the challenges of leadership in the age of social media, why representative government exists, and what it costs — financially and relationally — to keep a city running. From tornado recovery and emergency response to long-term investment, trash services, and economic development, this conversation offers a clear picture of how Paragould is growing and why collaboration matters. Whether you’re curious about city projects, civic process, or the vision for making Paragould a place people want to move to — and come back to — this episode provides helpful context and honest perspective.

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Eli Edgar, a junior professional bull rider whose journey moved quickly from the stands to the arena. At just 14 years old, a moment at the Sikeston Rodeo sparked a desire that would grow into competition at the highest junior levels of the sport. Eli shares how a third-generation passion for rodeos and breaking horses shaped his path, from steer riding and early competitions in Pocahontas and Cave City to qualifying on the Texas circuit and becoming the first Arkansan to qualify for the Junior National Finals Rodeo in bull riding. The conversation also explores the mental and spiritual side of bull riding. Eli reflects on the role of his dad as a steady presence and mental coach, the discipline of preparation, and how faith—anchored in Psalm 91—guides him before every ride. This episode is a story of legacy, focus, courage, and the commitment to do whatever you’re called to do 100%.

In this episode, we sit down with longtime friend and community pillar Jim Jackson to explore a lifetime of quiet leadership and faithful service in Paragould. Jim grew up in his family’s downtown business, Jackson Shoes, where his parents modeled a deep commitment to listening, helping, and giving back. That legacy continues in Jim’s work today through two powerful ministries making a real difference in our city and beyond. First, we talk about The Witt House, a unique food ministry through FUMC that serves up to 150 families each week. Unlike traditional pantries, The Witt House offers guests the dignity of choosing their own food from a menu, with a mobile pantry extending that care into neighborhoods with limited access. We also dive into Jim’s volunteer leadership with Kairos Prison Ministry, a program dedicated to building supportive, hope-filled communities inside the prison system. Through weekend retreats, weekly small groups, and ongoing reunions, Kairos dramatically reduces recidivism and offers inmates a consistent message of dignity and respect—summed up in their motto: “Listen, listen. Love, love.” Jim shares stories from both ministries, insights from years of serving some of the most vulnerable people in our community, and even a few behind-the-scenes details (including thousands of homemade cookies sent into Arkansas prisons!). This conversation is full of history, humanity, and hope—reminding us of the quiet work that makes Paragould a better place for all of us. Tune in, be inspired, and meet one of the people who makes our town what it is.

This week on The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Shawn Goodson and our own producer, Chris Collier, co-founders of the Paragould Run Company. What began in 2023 with a simple question: “Why not us? Why not now?” has quickly grown into one of the most exciting community-driven movements in NEA. In this episode, Shawn and Chris share how their desire for more local races turned into a vision to create true attractions for Paragould. Over the past two years, they’ve organized two editions of the Paraghoul 5K/10K and launched the inaugural Creek Trail Crusher Ultramarathon, drawing runners from as far away as Austin and Milwaukee. Along the way, they’ve also given $7,750 to local organizations through race proceeds. We talk about the early days of dreaming and planning, the challenges of stepping into something new, and how meaningful it is to see the community rally around these events. Whether you’re a runner, a community builder, or someone who loves hearing the story behind local initiatives, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what can happen when ordinary people decide to contribute in extraordinary ways.

GCT Band Directors Kim Webb and Nathan Anderson join us to share the story behind the back-to-back Arkansas state marching band titles and the culture that’s transforming their program from the inside out. Unlike traditional sports, marching band is a competition against your own potential, and these directors have built an environment where teenagers learn discipline, creativity, and confidence through the music they make together. In this episode, we explore: • Why band competition is really about self-mastery, not beating an opponent • How 13–18 year olds buy into a healthy culture that produces excellence • The power of “fun energy” and how it shaped GCT’s musical identity • Teaching students to perform with emotion, even rehearsing as caterpillars and butterflies 🐛🦋 • Helping 8th graders overcome fear as they move into high-school band • Why comparison is the thief of joy, especially in the arts • The dreams and visions of the future of GCT Band It’s a joyful, behind-the-scenes look at what happens when creativity, culture, and community come together, and why GCT Band continues to shine on and off the field.

This week on The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Amanda Frankenberger and Catherine Bradley from Legacy Hospice to explore the often misunderstood world of end-of-life care. Amanda shares how a “last dying wish” story reshaped her calling after two decades in social work, while Catherine reflects on her transition from labor and delivery to hospice nursing. Together, they offer a thoughtful look at what hospice really is, the layers of grief families navigate, and the meaningful, unseen work that happens behind the scenes. Their stories reveal the sacred moments, difficult realities, and surprising insights that come from walking with people and families in their final chapter. It’s an honest, tender conversation that reframes how we think about life, death, and the kind of care that truly matters.

In this episode, we sit down with Chad Henson, the new Chief of Police for the Paragould Police Department — a man whose journey has taken him from protecting the skies as a Federal Air Marshal to serving overseas in a UN mission, to leading drug task force operations across NEA. Chief Henson shares how those experiences shaped his philosophy of leadership and why he believes real change starts with character, humility, and a commitment to teaching. We talk about building healthy culture inside a department, why not everyone actually fears change, and how long-lasting cultural transformation happens from the inside out. He also outlines his vision for the future of PPD, including a major emphasis on officer development — increasing annual training requirements from 24 to 100 hours, equipping leaders at every level, and creating a department other agencies look to for instructors and best practices. We close by discussing the realities of drug trends in Arkansas, the importance of regional cooperation among agencies, and why “playing well with others” matters more than ever. If you care about leadership, community, or the direction of policing in Paragould, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Brad Bloemer, CEO of Arkansas Methodist Medical Center, and Brad Parsons, Vice President of Market Operations for Baptist Memorial Health Care, to discuss the upcoming merger between AMMC and Baptist. They share the story behind AMMC’s decision to pursue partnership, how the pandemic accelerated financial pressures across healthcare, and what both organizations hope this merger will mean for local patients and staff. From the realities of running an independent hospital to the complexity of healthcare systems today, this conversation offers a transparent look at how leaders are planning for the future of community care in Paragould and beyond. Currently in the due diligence phase, AMMC and Baptist hope to finalize the merger by the end of the year.

In celebration of the Eagle Pride Band’s back-to-back state championships, we’re revisiting our conversation with Band Director Kim Webb — the first female director in Arkansas 5A–7A competition to win a state title. Kim shares her journey from middle-school band director to leading one of the top programs in the state, the culture that keeps students coming back, and her vision to help every student belong, believe, and become. Originally released in 2024, this episode feels just as inspiring today. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!