Discover Fort Smith

Eddie Lee Herndon shares his powerful journey from nonprofit leadership to community development in Fort Smith, Arkansas. In this episode, learn about his impactful work with OG&E, his past with United Way, and how he’s helped shape Fort Smith’s future through volunteering, storm recovery, and economic development. Hear how his passion for service, leadership, and the River Valley continues to inspire a thriving local culture.He also dives into Fort Smith’s growth, the power of servant leadership, and hidden gems in the region from hiking spots to favorite food joints. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this conversation will inspire you to connect deeper with your community.Relevant Links:Arkansas Colleges of Health Education: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arkansas-colleges-of-health-educationFort Smith Symphony: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-symphonyU.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museumFort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-chamberFort Smith Trails & Biking: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bike-trailsFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumCommunity Services Clearinghouse: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/community-services-clearinghouseJanet Huckabee Nature Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-centerChaffee Crossing: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/chaffee-crossing

What happens when healthcare, innovation, and heart collide? In this episode, we meet Allie Young, a physical therapist, professor, and local app creator working with Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE). Allie shares her journey from treating pediatric patients to educating the next generation of PTs — all while building tools that support new parents across the country.From developing the NurtureWell app to combatting rural healthcare shortages, burnout, and long waitlists, Allie is changing how care looks in Fort Smith. We also dive into how AI is shaping physical therapy, why movement is medicine, and the many ways Allie and her family enjoy life in Fort Smith — biking trails, community hangs, local eats, and more.https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nurturewell/id6754331123Relevant Links:• Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE):https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arkansas-colleges-of-health-education• Fort Smith Riverfront Trail:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront-trail• Ben Geren Regional Park:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-park• Fort Smith Museum of History:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history• U.S. Marshals Museum:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museum

Public transit is moving Fort Smith forward — literally. In this episode, Josh and Ashley sit down with Gregory Carthon, Transit Program Specialist, to talk all things Fort Smith Transit: how it works, who it helps, and why it matters.Greg shares his inspiring journey from college basketball to public service, his passion for accessibility, and how his team delivers over 255,000+ rides a year — including life-saving trips during snowstorms. From fixed routes and demand service to free ride days, mobile apps, and community partnerships, this episode showcases how transit is about far more than just a ride — it’s about freedom, dignity, and connection.Fort Smith Transit:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-transitFort Smith Visitor Info:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/plan-your-visitRiverfront Bike Trail (mentioned activity):https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront-trailFort Smith’s Community Events:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/events

Explore the wild side of Fort Smith in this episode featuring Destin Smith, educator at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center. From kayaking and archery to rare duck sightings and scavenger hunts, Destin shares all the outdoor experiences available for families, kids, and adventure seekers — and they’re all free!Learn how the center educates over 1,500 students a year, get the scoop on upcoming 2026 renovations, and discover why hunting is key to managing Arkansas’s wildlife. Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, or just curious about critters, this episode will inspire your next outdoor outing.⸻🔗 Relevant Links: • Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-center • Arkansas Game and Fish Commission:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arkansas-game-and-fish-commission • Ben Geren Regional Park:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-park • Fort Chaffee Barbershop Museum (near Chaffee area wildlife):https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-chaffee-barbershop-museum

In this inspiring episode of the Fort Smith Podcast, we sit down with Colby and Hannah Barker, the heart and hustle behind Olive Coffee Company. From their small-town roots in Mulberry, Arkansas, to becoming thriving entrepreneurs and community builders, the Barkers share their journey of launching a coffee brand rooted in connection, faith, and love for people. Discover how they grew from a coffee trailer to multiple brick-and-mortar locations, their passion for building community through coffee, and the story behind their beautifully meaningful name. Whether you’re a coffee lover, small business enthusiast, or someone who cherishes community, this episode is packed with warmth, wisdom, and a few laughs along the way.Relevant Links:Olive Coffee Company locations in Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/food-drinkDowntown Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/downtown-fort-smithEastside Baptist Church (upcoming Olive Coffee location): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/churchesFort Smith CVB: https://www.discoverfortsmith.comLocal Shops & Boutiques: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/shoppingFort Smith Restaurants: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/restaurantsFort Smith Community & Events: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/events

🎶 From Fort Smith to Nashville and back — JD Clayton shares his musical journey, influences, and the road to making a name in the industry. In this episode, JD opens up about growing up in Fort Smith, his early love for music inspired by his grandfather’s bluegrass band, and how playing piano and writing songs became his true calling.He talks about the grind of landscaping during the pandemic while chasing dreams in Nashville, the story behind his breakout EP Long Way From Home, and how returning to Fort Smith helped him stay grounded while balancing family life and music.We also dive into his creative process, favorite local restaurants, and thoughts on AI in the music industry. Whether you’re a fan of authentic songwriting or just love a good hometown success story — this episode is for you!Relevant Links:Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-siteFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumDiscover Local Dining: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/restaurants

In this heartwarming and insightful episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast, we sit down with Jensen Long, Director of Development at the Fort Smith Children’s Shelter and its transformational GetREAL program. Jensen shares her personal journey from growing up in Fort Smith to leading one of the most impactful youth initiatives in Arkansas.GetREAL provides safe housing, mentorship, and life coaching to foster youth ages 18–21—many of whom age out of the system without family or support. Learn how this unique program helps them build essential life skills, find community, and rewrite their stories.We also dive into Fort Smith’s vibrant local culture—favorite coffee shops, parks, restaurants, and more that make the city such a special place to call home.This episode is a moving look at resilience, community, and what it means to truly support our youth.🔗 Relevant Links:Fort Smith Children’s Shelter: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-childrens-shelterBakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtClayton House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/clayton-houseFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumFort Smith Coffee Shops: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/coffee-shopsFort Smith Parks: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/parksHideaway Pizza: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/hideaway-pizzaThe Rialto: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/the-rialtoThe Majestic: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/the-majestic

In this heartfelt episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast, Dusan and Maddie Stojanovic share their powerful journey of resilience, love, and community. From Dusan’s move from Serbia to Fort Smith on a basketball scholarship, to the couple’s shared challenges navigating immigration, marriage, and a serious health scare with their newborn son, this episode is a touching reminder of the strength found in community.They reflect on what it means to call Fort Smith “home,” how the generosity of local people helped them through uncertain times, and the ways they now give back—through coaching, nonprofit leadership, and simply showing up. Tune in for an inspiring story that celebrates love, culture, and the soul of Fort Smith.UAFS (University of Arkansas – Fort Smith): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/university-of-arkansas-fort-smithBoys and Girls Club of Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/boys-girls-clubCreekmore Park & Tennis Courts: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-parkBen Geren Regional Park (Sand Volleyball Courts): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-parkUnited Way Fort Smith Area: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/united-wayDowntown Fort Smith (Rolando’s Restaurante): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/downtown-fort-smithMidland Market: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/midland-boulevard-market

In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, hosts Josh and Ashley welcome Shea Foldvary, President & CEO of United Way of Fort Smith, for an in-depth conversation on the power of giving, strategic community investment, and the incredible legacy of one of Fort Smith’s most trusted nonprofit organizations.Shea shares how United Way of Fort Smith operates one of the only 100% pass-through models in the country, thanks to a visionary local endowment. Learn how they support 31 partner agencies across six counties in Arkansas and Oklahoma, ensuring that every dollar donated stays local and goes exactly where it’s needed most.We also dive into how United Way mobilized during the 2019 Arkansas River flood, the organization’s community investment process, and how they’re helping with everyday needs through tools like their Community Resource Guide. Plus, Shea reflects on Fort Smith’s growth, the future of I-49 and Bass Pro, and where he likes to grab pizza with his family.Relevant Links:United Way of Fort Smith: https://www.unitedwayfortsmith.orgCommunity Resource Guide: https://www.unitedwayfortsmith.org/resources/Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: https://www.unitedwayfortsmith.org/imagination-libraryFort Smith Convention Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-convention-centerHideaway Pizza: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/hideaway-pizzaOrlando’s Italian Restaurant: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/orlandosFort Smith Parks: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/parksFort Smith Regional Airport: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-airportCentral Mall: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/central-mall

🎙️ In this episode, we dive into the heart of Fort Smith’s vibrant library scene with Jennifer Goodson, Director of the Fort Smith Public Library. From uncovering unexpected resources like tax help and digital streaming to highlighting their most popular events like Black Tie Bingo and the delicious Chocolate Festival, Jennifer shares how the library is redefining what it means to serve a modern community.Discover how the Fort Smith Public Library is much more than books — it’s a hub for connection, creativity, learning, and support for all ages. Learn about the library’s free meeting spaces, partnerships with local organizations, unique programming for kids, teens, and adults, and how they stay connected to readers through bestsellers and community requests.Plus, we talk local eats, coffee favorites, and the hidden gem café inside the main library. Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just library-curious, this episode is packed with reasons to stop by and stay awhile.Relevant Links:Fort Smith Public Library: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-public-libraryJanet Huckabee Nature Center (filming location): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-centerCreekmore Park (mentioned in holiday light display): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-parkFort Smith Coffee Co.: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-coffee-coSweet Bay Coffee: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/sweet-bay-coffeeFort Kids Museum (community partner): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-kids-museumUAFS (community partner): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/university-of-arkansas-fort-smithGreen Papaya: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/green-papayaLa Huerta: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/la-huertaRolando’s Restaurante: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/rolandos

🎯 In this inspiring episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, hosts Josh and Ashley sit down with Jason Baggett, the visionary behind the Arkansas Outdoor Expo, coming to the Fort Smith Convention Center in January 2026. From growing up in a small-town pharmacy run by his parents to becoming a passionate advocate for the outdoors, Jason shares his journey of community, perseverance, and purpose.Learn how his family’s history of entrepreneurship, faith, and community service shaped his vision for launching an outdoor expo in Fort Smith—a dream built to unite families, celebrate outdoor heritage, and support local and regional businesses. Hear all about what to expect from the expo: hunting, fishing, boating, apparel, kid-friendly attractions, and even celebrity guests from the outdoor world!Jason’s story is one of resilience, heart, and deep roots in the River Valley. Whether you’re a local business owner, outdoor enthusiast, or community builder, this episode will leave you inspired to support big dreams right here in Fort Smith.Relevant Links:Arkansas Outdoor Expo: https://www.arkansasoutdoorexpo.comFort Smith Convention Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-convention-centerCentral Mall Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/central-mallFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-siteTexas Roadhouse Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/texas-roadhouseGeorge’s Restaurant: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/georges-restaurantButcher Block: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/butcher-block

🎙️ In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, hosts Josh and Ashley sit down with the vibrant and multi-talented Rachel Testa, a driving force behind The Bakery District and The Mill co-working space. Born and raised in Fort Smith, Rachel shares her inspiring journey from serving tables to spearheading major events like Street Fest and creating community connections through co-working innovation.Learn how Rachel and the team are reshaping downtown Fort Smith into a lively, inclusive hub with everything from cornhole tournaments and trivia nights, to vendor festivals, live music, and Miss America appearances! 🌟She also dives into her love for Caroline Cross Park, her involvement with local foundations, and the growing downtown ecosystem—showing how collaboration over competition is helping Fort Smith thrive. This episode is packed with heart, local pride, and inspiration for anyone looking to get more involved in the community. 💬✨Relevant Links:The Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtCaroline Cross Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/caroline-cross-parkFort Smith Coffee Co.: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-coffee-coAJ’s Oyster House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ajs-oyster-housePeacemaker Festival: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/peacemaker-music-festivalFort Smith Symphony: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-symphonyNational Historic Site (Nearby): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site

In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, we sit down with Sam Hanna — a Fort Smith native, entrepreneur, and community leader involved with KW Properties, Hanna Oil and Gas, and the Fort Smith Parks and Recreation Commission. Sam shares his journey from Colorado to Austin and back home to Fort Smith, where he’s helping transform the city through visionary projects like the Bakery District and The Mill co-working space.We dive into the importance of community buy-in, revitalization of downtown Fort Smith, and how creative use of space can turn an old building into a hub for innovation, culture, and connection. Sam also discusses his role on the Parks and Recreation Commission and his hopes for future projects like the Acme Brick Park and the continued development of green spaces, biking trails, and more.If you’re curious about where Fort Smith is headed and how local leaders are building a brighter, more inclusive future, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Relevant Links:Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtThe Mill Co-Working Space: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/the-millFort Smith Parks & Trails: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/parks-and-trailsCreekmore Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-parkBen Geren Regional Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-parkJohn Bell Jr. Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/john-bell-jr-parkRiverfront Trail / Greg Smith River Trail: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/greg-smith-river-trailFort Smith Coffee Co: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-coffee-coFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Jennifer Hallum, President and CEO of the Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas, shares her personal and professional journey from small-town Oklahoma roots to leading one of Fort Smith’s most impactful nonprofit organizations.Jennifer opens up about her family’s experiences caring for aging parents, her early memories of visiting senior centers with her grandmother, and how those moments shaped her passion for helping others. She explains how the Area Agency on Aging provides vital programs — from transportation and home health to the new GUIDE Program for Alzheimer’s care — all designed to help families “know us before you need us.”Packed with laughter, heart, and local flavor, this episode also explores Fort Smith’s strong sense of community, favorite local restaurants like Diamond Head No. 2 and George’s, and the people who make this city a place of compassion and connection.Relevant Links (from DiscoverFortSmith.com):Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/area-agency-on-agingFort Smith Little Theatre: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-little-theatreNational U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museumFort Smith Symphony: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-symphonyGeorge’s Restaurant: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/georges-restaurantThe Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district

Meet Rhyan “River Boy” Besco — a Fort Smith native, hit songwriter, and music visionary who’s bringing national-level creativity back home. From starting his first rap group at Ramsey Junior High to writing platinum records in Los Angeles for global artists, Rhyan shares his incredible journey of faith, persistence, and purpose.In this inspiring episode, Rhyan talks about signing with major labels, writing “Phases” (now with 100M+ streams), and collaborating with Disney and K-pop artists — before returning to Fort Smith to build a thriving creative community. Hear how he’s mentoring local talent, producing shows like Know Your City, and leading new cultural events like the Solis Awards and S.O.S. River Boy II concert at The Majestic.If you love music, community, and big dreams taking root in small towns, this episode will remind you why Fort Smith is worth believing in.Relevant Links (from DiscoverFortSmith.com):The Majestic: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/the-majesticBakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumChoctaw Casino (nearby partner venue): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/choctaw-casinoMain Street Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/main-street-fort-smith

Step inside one of Fort Smith’s most unique historical landmarks — Miss Laura’s Brothel Museum — with guest Angel Tracy, the museum’s manager and passionate historian. In this episode, Angel shares fascinating stories about the women who shaped this space, from Miss Laura and Bertha to the many who followed, revealing how this former brothel became a vital part of women’s history and Fort Smith’s cultural heritage.Discover how the museum preserves the past while connecting it to modern issues such as human trafficking awareness, and get a sneak peek into upcoming events like the Radium Girls Paint & Sip, Christmas Nouveau Soiree, and the Women’s History Month “Coming to Current” room.Join us for an eye-opening conversation that honors the women who helped build Fort Smith — one story at a time.Relevant Links (from DiscoverFortSmith.com):Miss Laura’s Visitor Center & Brothel Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/miss-lauras-visitor-centerFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumBakery District (local event venue often featured): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site

In this episode of Discover Fort Smith, we sit down with Adonis Wilson, vocal music teacher and marketing coordinator at the Institute for the Creative Arts (ICA). From nearly pursuing a career on cruise ships to becoming a passionate educator in Fort Smith, Adonis shares his inspiring story of choosing to stay and invest in the community.We dive into the vision of ICA as Arkansas’ only immersive arts charter school, offering tracks in vocal music, theater, digital art, film, and more. Adonis explains how ICA helps creative students thrive, the importance of confidence in performance, and why Fort Smith is becoming a hub for arts and culture.From student performances like Chicago and Sister Act, to the city’s growing trail system and vibrant small business scene, this episode shows how education and creativity are shaping the River Valley’s future.Relevant Links:Institute for the Creative Arts: https://icafortsmith.orgCommunity School of the Arts: https://www.csafortsmith.orgKing Opera House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/king-opera-houseFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-siteFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyBakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtFort Smith Symphony Orchestra: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-symphonyChaffee Crossing Trails: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/chaffee-crossing

In this episode of Discover Fort Smith, meet Joanna Hernandez, social media coordinator for Discover Fort Smith and proud Fort Smith native. Joanna shares her journey from Southside High School to UAFS, where she earned recognition for academic excellence in graphic design, to becoming the voice of Fort Smith online.She opens up about staying rooted in her hometown, capturing its diversity, spotlighting hidden gems, and creating content that reflects the true spirit of the community. From food trucks and cultural festivals to behind-the-scenes campaigns and unfiltered conversations, Joanna explains how storytelling and fresh perspectives can inspire residents and visitors alike.This is a must-listen for anyone who loves Fort Smith or wants to see how the next generation of leaders is shaping its future.Relevant Links:University of Arkansas – Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/university-of-arkansas-fort-smithFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumNational U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museumFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyBakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-siteClayton House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/clayton-houseCarol Ann Cross Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/carol-ann-cross-parkCreekmore Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-park

In this episode of Discover Fort Smith, we sit down with Chancellor Teresa Riley of the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith. A first-generation college student who worked her way through school, Dr. Riley shares her inspiring journey to becoming chancellor and her passion for making higher education accessible and transformative.We discuss how UAFS supports first-generation and Pell Grant–eligible students, the $85 million capital campaign, and exciting new initiatives in healthcare, engineering, and data science. Dr. Riley also talks about the vibrant student life on campus, community partnerships, and why investing in UAFS means investing in the future of the River Valley.Whether you’re a parent, student, or community member, this conversation is full of encouragement, vision, and Fort Smith pride.Relevant Links:University of Arkansas – Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/university-of-arkansas-fort-smithFort Smith Symphony Orchestra: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-symphonyFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumNational U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museumFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyBakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-districtFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-siteClayton House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/clayton-house

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Shadow Robinson, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Student Success at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith. From starting college at just 16 to earning a PhD in theoretical physics, Dr. Robinson shares his journey from scientist to educational leader.We dive into UAFS initiatives that prepare students for real-world careers, new programs in healthcare and engineering, the importance of communication skills, and the university’s strong partnerships with local industries. Beyond academics, Dr. Robinson talks about student life on campus, athletics, coffee culture, and his love for the arts and Fort Smith’s vibrant food scene.Whether you’re a student, parent, or community member, this episode highlights how UAFS is shaping the future of the River Valley — one student at a time.Relevant Links:University of Arkansas – Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/university-of-arkansas-fort-smithFort Smith Symphony Orchestra: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-symphonyFort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museumFort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-siteNational U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museumFort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-historyClayton House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/clayton-houseBakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district