I Am Northwest Arkansas® What if it all works out? Start Small, Dream Big in 2026!
About the Show:
"It doesn't demand a new goal or resolution. It just invites you to think a little differently, to breathe a little deeper, and maybe even to imagine that, yeah, what if it all works out?"
– Randy Wilburn
In this special solo episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn closes out 2025 by looking back at the wisdom and advice he's gathered from this year's guests—both national voices and local leaders. From finding balance to embracing change, Randy shares the lessons that stuck with him most, and he's not here to push big, grand resolutions. Instead, he reminds us that starting small can mean everything, and sometimes the little things really do matter most.
You'll hear memorable advice like "move the horizon closer" alongside local gems about living authentically and taking chances. Randy pulls from powerful moments in past episodes and his own experiences to give you something to think about as you head into 2026. Whether you're considering a new challenge, stepping into a second act, or simply want to appreciate those quiet walks with your dog, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Be Present: Put your phone down more often and savor the moment.
- Start Small: Focus on making one change at a time—big things happen step by step.
- Nothing Changes if Nothing Changes: Intentions are good, but actions create lasting results.
- Authenticity Wins: Be your true self and let people see your real story, struggles and all.
- Embrace Failure and Risk: Don’t be afraid to start again or make mistakes, especially if you’re chasing your calling or beginning a new chapter.
- Reset When Needed: Every step, even the failures, builds on your foundation for growth.
- Celebrate Small Victories: Smile, take walks, and enjoy the simple wins.
- Don’t Rush: Let yourself grow and take your time with change—it doesn’t all have to be hard.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- Email Us Your One Piece of Advice from 2025.
- New York Times Article by Melissa Kirsch (“Best Advice from Readers in 2025”) – referenced by Randy Wilburn
- Episode 330: Second Acts and TEDx Fayetteville Reflections
- Episode 333: Authenticity with Randy Pulayya (WIPS West Indies Peppa Sauce)
- Episode 326: Community and Risk with Lynn Wong and Mike Thompson (Pedal Park & Pedal Pops)
- Go fail some! Episode 329 with Matt Buell
- Episode 336: Reset and Resilience with Kristin Phillips (AFIC at MCO)
- Episode 334 Advice from Francisco Valencia (“Smile is the entrance fee to doing a lot of things and getting through doors”)
- FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
This episode is sponsored by*
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
*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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Mentioned in this episode:
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"