I Am Northwest Arkansas®

About the Show:We sat down with Sarah Autry and Stephanie Peters, two of the Founders at Duncan & Stone based in Fayetteville, to discuss what it was like to start a business during the pandemic and watch it grow. All this and more on this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Sarah AutryEmail Stephanie PetersWebsite for Duncan & StoneDuncan & Stone on FacebookDuncan & Stone on InstagramThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:ONBoardNWA.comLooking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"a...

About the Show:Stacy Harper is the Founder of Lighthouse Solutions, an organization that helps people in need. Harper talks about her success story and how she is working with organizations to bridge the gap between resources and the community. The primary focus is on teenagers, and the strategy is to use art and life skills mapped together to assist them in opening up. She also talks about two sisters partnering with Trails of Love since 2012 to bless families through back-to-school events and Christmas giveaways. Their efforts are directed at helping those in need without judgment and providing sustainable emotional well-being. All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Lighthouse SolutionsWebsite for Lighthouse SolutionsLighthouse Solutions on FacebookLighthouse Solutions on InstagramThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"a...

About the Show:Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area has it all, Hunting, Shooting Range, and some of the best Mountain Bike Trails in Northwest Arkansas are under one roof.According to Park Superintendent Mark Clippinger, located on the East side of Rogers, Hobbs State Park has something for everyone who loves the great outdoors.All this and more on this I am Northwest Arkansas episode.Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Website for Hobbs State ParkWebsite for Friends of Hobbs State ParkFriends of Hobbs State Park on FacebookFriends of Hobbs State Park on InstagramWebsite for Arkansas State ParksHobbs State Park-Conservation Area20201 AR-12, Rogers, AR 72756479-789-5000This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"FindItNWA.comONBoardNWA.comLooking for your next career...

About the Show:We recently sat down with Wes Craiglow from the Urban Land Institute (ULI NWA). Wes is leading ULI’s effort to help Northwest Arkansas grow smart and not just big for the sake of being big. According to Wes, Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest-growing metro areas under one million people in the United States.  ULI is a nonprofit created in 1936 to help communities transform for the most significant impact possible. The organization comprises Real Estate Developers, Lenders, Planners, Design Professionals, Title professionals, and community stakeholders. They focus on municipal planning, real estate planning, and economic, Social, and Health planning to ensure that an area grows with a measured and calculated approach. According to Wes, even though we may have some housing issues due to the hot real estate market when this episode came out, we are far from using up all of the real estate space available in both Washington and Benton Counties. With leaders like Wes Craiglow here in Northwest Arkansas, we should be in good hands as we continue to witness an explosion of growth here in the Ozarks. Please reach out to Wes with any suggestions or ideas about the place you call home. He is more than happy to connect with you and share your opinions with a larger audience. Wow! I can’t believe we will be almost a Million people by 2050. All this and more on this I am Northwest Arkansas episode.Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Email Wes CraiglowWebsite for ULI Northwest ArkansasULI Northwest Arkansas on FacebookULI Northwest Arkansas on InstagramULI Northwest ArkansasPO Box 11232, Fayetteville, AR 72703This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to

About the Show:We recently sat down with Jake Lewis, the founder of Woodworx Workshop. Jake is a  talented artist and woodworker.  He learned to marry his passion for woodworking and art with business. He takes recycled wood and repurposes them into works of art for all to enjoy - see some of the examples in the Show Notes below.I spent some time in Jake’s tidy little workshop just off the Greenway on the Fayetteville and Johnson line, where I got a chance to watch work on one of his new creations, and then we sat down to talk shop - no pun intended.Jake shared an example of how he learned to handle wood and the tools necessary to make his works of art.  He is pretty much self-taught, and from the looks of the art that he is creating, he had a great teacher.  Jake attends many Craft Fairs around the State and is a regular fixture at the Bentonville Market, Ozark Natural Foods, and the Velvet Otter. All this and more on this I am Northwest Arkansas episode.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Jake LewisWebsite for Woodworx WorkshopWoodworx Workshop on InstagramWoodworx Workshop on FacebookWoodworx Workshop on TwitterThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on...

About the Show:If you are looking for motivation to get your business idea off the ground or just need that extra push for your current business bookmark and listen to this episode for great stories and motivation to achieve your dreams here in the Ozarks whether big or small.  We recently had a chance to sit down and talk with Brant Barnes, the owner of the local Shelter Insurance in downtown Fayetteville.  We connected with Brant through our friend on the podcast, Mark Zweig, a professor of Entrepreneurship at the Sam Walton School of Business at the University of Arkansas.The cool thing about Brant is that he doesn’t just own an insurance agency - his dad was a long-time insurance agent in Mountain Home - but he also has a knack for running businesses. He built some strong relationships early in his insurance career that propelled him to buy into the Papa John's Franchise in Mississippi and then ultimately he converted those successful operations into multiple locations in Arkansas and Missouri. Brant also has his car dealer license and he is a very good pilot that even knows how to crash-land a plane and live to tell the story. You have to hear the whole story to believe it. This is one of our most engaging episodes and Brant shares one nugget of wisdom after another. Be prepared to strap in focus and take some notes. You will not be disappointed.Brantisms: Yes, we made this word up but it is applicable.  “Where we learn is on the edge of comfort!”“Always have a plan, no matter what.”All this and more on this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Brant BarnesWebsite for Shelter Insurance - Brant BarnesShelter Insurance - Brant Barnes Agency on FacebookBrant Barnes on LinkedInThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook...

About the Show:Are you in Northwest Arkansas?Would you like to join the cycling community? This episode is for you!  We sat down with Bianca Montoya, Communication and Marketing Director at BikeNWA. Bianca sheds light on how the BikeNWA organization intentionally supports and builds a cycling culture in Northwest Arkansas.Bianca moved to Northwest Arkansas to attend the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. After studying Advertising and Public Relations, Bianca started volunteering with organizations across Northwest Arkansas. Her volunteering spurred her passion for contributing to the NWA community and led her to get more involved in the local non-profit scene. In her role at BikeNWA, Bianca focuses on bicycle advocacy and education. The fact that May is National Bike Month makes it even better. Whether you've never ridden a bike before or spent most of your waking hours on the Greenway and local trails, this episode has something for you.  Key Talking Points of the Episode:[04:00] What led Bianca to BikeNWA? Has she been a cyclist all her life?[06:39] Biking culture experience in Northwest Arkansas[13:57] Building a bike culture[18:49] National Bike Month and what BikeNWA seeks to achieve in May as well as the remainder of the year.[27:01] How Bike NWA is creating riding opportunities for all[34:18] Where should new cyclists start?Quotables:"If you're doing something that you're truly passionate about, it's easy to get up every morning and go do it." - Bianca Montoya."I love to tell people to be patient and continue to pursue and redefine how they look at failure. - Bianca MontoyaImportant Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Bianca MontoyaWebsite or BikeNWABikeNWA on FacebookBikeNWA on InstagramThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host,a...

About the Show:We recently sat down with Amanda Childs of Community Service Inc. (CSI), a 501(c)3 youth and family services organization serving youth 18 and younger. They were founded in 1958 by Conway County Circuit Judge Audrey Strait, CSI, to “combat juvenile delinquency” directly and to minimize the rate of delinquency through “serving other segments of the population who were in need.”Some of CSI’s services include prevention and education, therapeutic foster care, day treatment, substance abuse services, mental health services, and juvenile justice.Listen in as Amanda shares how her challenging upbringing inspired her to become an advocate for youth in need.After graduating with a major in psychology and a minor in criminal justice, Amanda was initially at a loss about what she wanted to do out of school. Through the encouragement of one of her professors, she went down the path that eventually led her to CSI.Amanda explains her role at CSI and how the non-profit has evolved to address the needs of children and teenagers in today’s world, such as taking into account the risks of social media to their mental, emotional, and social development.All of this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.[02:43] Amanda’s superhero origin story and how she came to work for CSI[18:30] What led CSI to expand to Northwest Arkansas[22:29] How social media has exacerbated mental health challenges among the youth[25:47] CSI’s most-needed services by location[31:27] The power of allowing yourself to be fallible[40:24] Embracing authenticity as the key to growthImportant Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Community Service, Inc.Website for Community Service, Inc.Community Service, Inc on FacebookContact CSI at 479-418-3404This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host,a...

About the Show:We recently sat down with EasyBins Founder James Farmer. Known as the Instacart of Northwest Arkansas, EasyBins takes inspiration from the familiar concept of “connecting the store to your door” and offers a unique service, “connecting the market to your door.”Unlike other grocery delivery apps, EasyBins removes the physical store from the equation and allows users to create a basket to fill with products from various stores and have those products delivered right to their doorstep within 12 hours.Before starting EasyBins, James served as the President of The Harvest Group, which in the mid-2010s was growing at such a fast rate that James and his partners “could feel that we were capping the business out.” He began to explore his options. James loved retail and knew he wanted to get physically closer to the product and the customer.James sold his stake in The Harvest Group. He proceeded to move into a new venture, called NiteOwl. After being mistaken for an adult entertainment store several times, James and his team promptly renamed their startup to EasyBins.Listen in as James goes on to share how the pandemic saved EasyBins thousands of dollars in marketing spending and shortened their plans for the company down from five years to less than one. James firmly believes that, for entrepreneurs everywhere, now is the time to embrace the “pandemic pivot” and seek out and seize opportunities.All of this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Website for Easy BinsWebsite for Harvest GroupThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Oura...

About the Show:We recently sat down with Stacey Mason and had a full-ranging conversation on Leadership Coaching through Improvisation and everything in between. Stacey dropped so many nuggets of wisdom including the smart decision to locate her improv studio, The Improv Lab, in Downtown Bentonville. Stacey shared her perspective on the difference between counseling and coaching. “Counseling is Archaeology, and Coaching is Architecture!” Stacey MasonLearn why you should consider adding applied improvisation to your tool belt of abilities. All of this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Stacey MasonWebsite for Improv LabImprov Lab on YouTubeImprov Lab on InstagramWebsite for Mason on LeadershipThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one

A brief summary of this episodeMentioned in this episode:ONBoardNWA.comLooking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"FindItNWA.com

About the Show:We recently sat down with Kathryn Tucker, Executive Director, and Kody Ford, Director of Statewide Outreach and Education, from the Arkansas Cinema Society, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, to discuss all things related to films and filmmaking in the Natural State.Kathryn and Kody broke down the impact that films and filmmaking have on Arkansas and what has happened to make Northwest Arkansas a great place to make a movie.  There are so many jobs supplied by film production, from actors to extras to production assistants and electricians. While we are not Hollywood, we have many examples of other states like Texas and Georgia that have taken the time to cultivate the film and filmmaking culture. The sky is the limit for Arkansas. We have a wide variety of diverse locations that can create a backdrop for a variety of movies. The Arkansas Cinema Society is taking the time to educate and create more films in the future.  If you are interested in the industry or just want to learn more about what is happening right in your backyard, you need to listen to this episode. All of this and more on this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Kathryn Tucker BioKody Ford BioEmail Arkansas Cinema SocietyWebsite for Join the Arkansas Cinema SocietyArkansas Cinema Society on FacebookArkansas Cinema Society on TwitterArkansas Cinema Society on InstagramArkansas Cinema Society on YouTubeThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our

About the Show:We recently sat down with Fayetteville’s newest City Councilor, D’Andre Jones. D’Andre, a Ward 1 Representative, is the second African-American to hold the position. D’Andre originally ran back in 2014 and didn’t win.  He continued to labor and serve in the community, and then the Spring and Summer of 2020 happened. D’Andre became one of several spokespeople in the Northwest Arkansas community to address Black Lives Matter and other social issues that have become a flashpoint in our country.  He led several peaceful events in both Benton and Washington Counties in the Summer of 2020.  All of this activism and a desire to see diversity, equity, and inclusion flourish in Northwest Arkansas compelled D’Andre to throw his hat in the ring this past November to represent Fayetteville’s Ward 1, a place he calls home. D’Andre previously worked on the Civil Review Board in Fayetteville and has had a strong working relationship with Police Chief Mike Reynolds and the rest of the Fayetteville police department. The Fayetteville Fraternal Order of Police endorsed D’Andre this past election. All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email D'Andre JonesD'Andre Jones on FacebookWebsite for City of FayettevilleWebsite for Fayetteville Police DepartmentWebsite for Lake FayettevilleWebsite for Fayetteville Public LibaryWebsite for Razorback Football TeamFayetteville City Councilor D’Andre Jones113 W. Mountain St, Fayetteville, AR 72701479-283-1358This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With...

About the Show:We recently sat down with Chef Neal Gray from The Preacher's Son in Bentonville, AR. This episode is our second podcast with this signature restaurant from the Ropeswing Hospitality Group Family.  We initially met with Chef Matt Cooper more than a year and a half ago.  Since Chef Matt left in December of 2020, the restaurant has been in the more than capable hands of Chef Gray.  With a career encapsulating both fine dining and approachable, everyday cuisine, Chef Grayl has extensive experience working at world-class restaurants, including The Inn at Little Washington in Virginia, the highly prestigious French Laundry in Northern California, and Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Tarrytown, New York.The Malvern native is doing quick work to redefine the menu at The Preacher’s Son while honoring its gluten-free roots by consistently offering various GF options on each menu. Overall, guests can expect a showcase of seasonal ingredients that allow the food to shine without feeling manipulated or overworked. When we published these show notes, The Preacher's Son was still observing all Pandemic protocols for dining. We ate there and enjoyed our meal, the wine pairings, and the overall atmosphere in the award-winning restaurant.   All of this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Chef Neal Gray's BioWebsite for The Preacher's Son Website for The Preacher's Son MenuThe Peacher's Son on FacebookThe Preacher's Son on InstagramWebsite for Ropeswing Hospitality GroupThe Preacher's Son201 NW A St.Bentonville, AR 72712(479) 445-6065This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at

About the Show:We recently sat down with Emmy award-winning Filmmaker and Video Journalist MarioTroncoso and Lisa Marie Evans Filmmakers from OZCast to discuss the origins of the online variety show and how they are slowly putting a diverse group of underrepresented artists from Northwest Arkansas and beyond on the map with their programming.  Whether you are into dance, culinary, textile, music, social practice, video, spoken word, graphic novels, or sculpture OZCast has stories and inspiration for you.  All this and more on this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Email Lisa Marie EvansEmail Mario TroncosoWebsite for OZCastOZCast on InstagramOZCast on FacebookThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:ONBoardNWA.comLooking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in...

About the Show:We sat down with Beth Pittman and Christie Martin the Founders of Skills Lab Training in Bentonville to discuss how they are preparing the next generation for jobs and general employment readiness.All of this and more on this podcast episode. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Beth PittmanEmail Christie MartinWebsite for Skills Lab TrainingSkills Lab Training on FacebookSkills Lab Training on InstagramSkills Lab Training on LinkedInSkills Lab Training on YouTubeThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:ONBoardNWA.comLooking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the...

About the Show:We recently sat down with Frank Johnson, former Police Chief of Fayetteville. Chief Johnson has been in Northwest Arkansas for more than four decades now and is a well-known figure in the community. Frank was also the first African American Police Chief in Northwest Arkansas and maybe one of the first in the State of Arkansas* (although we could not verify that at the time of publication.)We had a far-ranging conversation from what Community policing should be to the killing of George Floyd.  Chief Johnson also shared with us what it was like being one of the only minority patrolmen on the police force back in the early ’80s.He served in the Fayetteville Police Department alongside the current Washington County Sherrif, Tim Helder.  In addition, Chief Johnson also taught classes at the University of Arkansas where one of his students was current Fayetteville Police Chief, Mike Reynolds. Chief Johnson shared his thoughts on what makes Northwest Arkansas a special place and was candid about the diversity in the area. All of this and more on this podcast episode. Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Email Frank JohnsonWebsite for Fayetteville Police DepartmentWebsite for Hugo'sThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:ONBoardNWA.comLooking for your next career move in Northwest...

About the Show:We recently sat down with General Manager Noel Sosa from KissNWA 105.3 FM.  Noel has been in the Radio game, working for Perry Broadcasting of Oklahoma City for almost two decades now. A couple of years ago, Perry Broadcasting allowed Noel to come to Northwest Arkansas and start an R&B format radio station.  KissNWA 105.3 FM was born!Everything that Noel touches in the Radio business turns to gold, and this latest expansion of the Perry Broadcasting empire is no different. Noel has helped establish KissNWA’s place in the community quickly, and you can see that they are active because you can see their KissNWA at most big events around Northwest Arkansas.  Listen to Noel’s story and how Kiss NWA 105.3 FM has built a loyal following right here in Northwest Arkansas. All of this and more on this podcast episode. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Noel SosaWebsite for Kiss 105.3Kiss 105.3 on FacebookKiss 105.3 on InstagramKiss 105.3 on TwitterThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest

About the Show:We sat down with the Food Truck owner and Restaurateur Brent Hale to learn how he transitioned from selling Insurance full time to filling Northwest Arkansas stomachs with great food.  Ben has food trucks throughout Northwest Arkansas and he has built a unique restaurant concept right in Downtown Springdale with Big Sexy Food and Sammich Love. In addition to Brent’s story, hear how he has helped other local Food Entrepreneurs like Nate Walls build their culinary business. Listen to his story and how Big Sexy Food is becoming a household name here in Northwest Arkansas. All of this and more on this podcast episode. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Website for Big Sexy FoodBig Sexy Food on FacebookBig Sexy Food on InstagramChef Brent Hale InstagramChef Brent Hale FacebookNate Walls and Second Helping NWAThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas Mentioned in this episode:ONBoardNWA.comLooking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop...

About the Show:This episode provides a ton of information for small businesses and independent contractors throughout Northwest Arkansas and beyond. Mary Beth Brooks provides 30+ years of qualified banking and small business development experience and knowledge.If you ever wondered if you were eligible for the PPP or EIDL money that Congress made available this is the episode to listen to.All of this and more on this podcast episode. Arkansas Small Business Development & Technology Center240 N. Block Ave., Fayetteville, AR 72701479-575-5148Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Mary Beth BrooksMary Beth Brooks on LinkedInSchedule an appointment with Mary Beth Brooks and her team at ASBTDCWebsite for ASBDTCASBTDC on FacebookASBTDC on InstagramASBTDC on TwitterASBTDC on YouTubeThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and...