How NWA Serial Entrepreneur Brant Barnes Found Success in Authenticity
Description
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 Barnes
Website for Shelter Insurance - Brant Barnes
Shelter Insurance - Brant Barnes Agency on Facebook
Brant Barnes on LinkedIn
This episode is sponsored by*
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
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.
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Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Winetopia 2025
We’re back at the barn! Winetopia is THE annual event that highlights the best of what our NWA Community has to offer, and we are thrilled to be back at the Barn at the Stonebreaker this year! Winetopia is where you can taste incredible top-tier wine, local craft beer, top-shelf bourbon, a variety of other spirits from our favorite local distilleries, AND hand-crafted mocktails. A specially-selected menu from Stonebreaker catering and our favorite Mia Tarts round out the evening! A ticket is all you need to access one of the most special nights of the year.
Your favorite features from Winetopia will be there - the famous wine toss with Carny in the Corner, DJ Shortfuze spinning smooth tracks all night long, and the best silent auction around! You’ve been waiting all year for this event, and it’s now around the corner! We cannot wait to see you there!
Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Evening at the Farm is a celebration of community and togetherness. Gather with friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts for a memorable farm-to-table meal. What began as a small gathering has grown into one of our most beloved traditions, celebrating the flavors of the season and the community that makes it all possible. By attending this event, you'll not only treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience but also support our mission to empower and nourish our community.
FindItNWA.com
Looking 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"
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