I Am Northwest Arkansas® Keeping It Real: How NWA Transplants Authentically Share Their Journey
About the Show:
"Northwest Arkansas is part of Arkansas. You're going to find a lot of different areas, and, no matter what you're into, you're going to find your people."
- Brittany Swiderski
About the Guests:
This podcast episode offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Brittany and Amin, a young couple who uprooted from New York to Northwest Arkansas just before the pandemic turned the world upside down. With Amin's new job as their compass, they took a leap of faith into the unknown. Little did they realize how much their big move would pay off.
Hailing from disparate parts of North America initially, neither Brittany nor Amin knew much about Arkansas before landing there. In fact, the only news they ever heard about the state involved some sort of tragedy. To counter the bad press, the duo started documenting their experience through an Instagram account called "NWA Transplants." They hoped to showcase the many positives of living in Northwest Arkansas that aren't visible from afar.
Over time, Brittany and Amin have evolved their social media style and built connections by highlighting local events, the arts, music, small businesses, and more hidden gems. As Brittany notes, they wanted to share "what this area is really like when you're living there." From finding community during the first wave of COVID-19 to discovering common interests through happenstance meetings, the couple has embraced the opportunities around them to build a life—and make an impact.
Episode Summary:
The conversation covers their initial reservations about moving, the surprising discoveries upon arrival, and the evolving landscape of NWA. They share insights into the importance of dental health, the joy of finding community, and the unexpected encounters that have enriched their lives. Randy and his guests also discuss the challenges of housing, the power of social media storytelling, and the future aspirations for their platform.
Key Takeaways:
- Brittany and Amin's story is a compelling narrative of finding one's place in an unexpected corner of the world.
- Their Instagram account @nwatransplants serves as a beacon for others contemplating a move to Northwest Arkansas and for locals discovering the hidden gems in their backyard.
- The episode explores the couple's commitment to community engagement, the celebration of NWA's growth, and the genuine desire to contribute positively to the region.
- Through humor, authenticity, and relatable content, they've managed to build a platform that resonates with a diverse audience.
- The discussion highlights the importance of being proactive in one's community, the power of storytelling, and the role each resident plays in shaping the future of Northwest Arkansas.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
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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Mentioned in this episode:
FindItNWA.com
🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
ONBoardNWA.com
Looking 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.