I Am Northwest Arkansas®

About the Show:"I don't need to be the best for two reasons. One is, we want to first reset what the standard taste and flavors and experience should be for Southeast Asian cuisine."       – Binh HoangIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Binh Hoang, the visionary behind House 1830 in Downtown Rogers. Born in a Thai refugee camp to Vietnamese parents, Binh shares how his family’s story—and the broader Southeast Asian immigrant experience—inspired the mission, strategy, and storytelling behind House 1830.While Binh focuses on the vision, historical context, and strategic direction of the restaurant, he credits his sister-in-law, Chef Be, as the Executive Chef and culinary force behind the menu. Together, they craft more than just food—they create immersive cultural experiences that educate, connect, and inspire the Northwest Arkansas community.From humble beginnings building a food booth in his driveway to launching a restaurant known for its authenticity and heart, Binh’s story is a powerful blend of resilience, family legacy, and bold purpose. Whether you’re a food lover, entrepreneur, or local community supporter, this episode offers insights on leadership, heritage, and building a business with soul.Key Takeaways:Purpose Before Profit: Binh’s story shows the power of focusing on experience and mission instead of chasing money, which builds stronger businesses and communities.The Standard, Not the Best: House 1830 is striving to be the touchstone for authentic Southeast Asian cuisine in NWA, helping educate locals on ingredients, techniques, and cultural context.Family, Resilience, and Roots: Hear how Binh’s journey from refugee camps to restaurateur is woven into the DNA of House 1830, and why family recipes and history matter.Night Markets & Community: House 1830’s Night Market brings the magic of Southeast Asian night markets to Rogers, sparking connection and cultural awareness through food.Advice for Young Professionals: Put pride in your work, lead with curiosity, and become “the standard”—change comes from those who commit fully, especially in a region growing as fast as the Ozarks.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show* 106 W Elm St #102, Rogers, AR 72756(479) 278-7016Website: House1830.comInstagram: @house1830 (Menu updates, events, Night Market info)Chef’s Feast & Night Market Event details: Find tickets and announcements on Night MarketEvent:Night Market Event at House 1830 – Seasonal, featuring Southeast Asian street food, candlelit ambiance, and community gatheringThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" FindItNWA.com Try ONBoardNWA.com Today! *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.Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"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:"I want to change people's lives. My legacy is for people to look at me as a good person, a good teacher, and to say, ‘He transformed my life through Jiu Jitsu.’       – Ismael SantosIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with world-class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu athlete and teacher Ismael Santos, founder of the brand-new Yosai Jiu Jitsu academy in Springdale. Born and raised in Fortaleza, Brazil, Ismael shares his journey through Jiu Jitsu—from early days as a competitive teenager to teaching and mentoring students of all ages in Northwest Arkansas.Randy and Ismael discuss the origins of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the importance of discipline, and how martial arts can transform lives. Ismael opens up about his philosophy of asking the right questions to spark personal growth, his teaching approach for beginners and advanced students, and the vibrant Brazilian culture he brings into his academy. Listeners will hear how Jiu Jitsu can benefit anyone—no matter their age, fitness level, or experience—and how this dynamic martial art builds confidence, community, and self-defense skills.If you’re curious about martial arts, want a healthy and fun way to stay active, or simply want to find out what makes Ismael Santos and Yosai Jiu Jitsu special, this episode is a must-listen!Key Takeaways:Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not just a sport: It’s a practice that develops discipline, builds character, and teaches self-defense.Asking questions leads to growth: Ismael encourages students to ask “How do I defend?” or “What should I do in this situation?” to enhance learning.Jiu Jitsu is for everyone: You can start as a child or an older adult—classes adapt to your goals, body, and experience.Community and culture matter: Step into Yosai Jiu Jitsu and experience Brazilian warmth, music, language, and a supportive team.MMA fighters use Jiu Jitsu: Strong ground techniques are key in mixed martial arts—most champions have a Jiu Jitsu foundation.Springdale’s new home for authentic Jiu Jitsu: Ismael brings his expertise and vibrant approach to make Jiu Jitsu accessible in Northwest Arkansas.Special deals for new members: Founders pricing and discounts for students, first responders, and healthcare professionals.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Yosai Jiu Jitsu Website: YosaiJiuJitsu.comLocation: 1110 Matthias Drive, Suite E, Springdale, AR (Across from Sam’s Club, off US-412) Phone: 479-249-4437 Instagram: @YosaiJiuJitsuLimited Time Special Offer: For the first 50 members – Unlimited classes for $139/month. After that, regular price is $149/month. Additional 10% discount for first responders, healthcare workers with ID, university professors, and students!FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*FindItNWA.com Try ONBoardNWA.com Today! *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:Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"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 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.

About the Show:"Your calling doesn't expire. Your second act might be your greatest act. And the moment to begin is always the same. So let's count it down together right now for whatever you've been waiting to start. 3, 2, 1. Your time isn't running out. It's just beginning."       – Randy WilburnFresh from the TEDx Fayetteville stage, host Randy Wilburn invites you into an intimate moment of reflection and revelation in this powerful episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®. Still riding the emotional high of his talk, Randy shares the complete presentation of "It's Never Too Late to Do the Thing You Were Called to Do," along with the personal stories and profound truths that inspired it.At the heart of Randy's message is his grandfather, Mal Good, who shattered barriers at age 54 by becoming ABC News's first Black network correspondent—proof that extraordinary chapters can begin when others might think the story's ending. Drawing from history's late bloomers, today's reinventors, and his own path, Randy dismantles the myth that opportunity has an expiration date.This isn't just a talk about second chances—it's a rallying cry for anyone who's ever felt they've missed their moment. Randy reminds us that callings don't arrive on our timeline; they arrive on their own. Whether you're contemplating a bold pivot, dusting off a long-dormant dream, or simply wondering if it's too late to start, this episode offers both permission and inspiration to answer that inner voice—no matter what your birth certificate says.Key Takeaways:It’s Never Too Late: Your biggest accomplishment could still be ahead, no matter your age.Age Is an Asset: Life experience, wisdom, and resilience create powerful tools for new ventures.Stories of Second Acts: Inspiring examples like Mal Good, Colonel Sanders, Diana Nyad, Nelson Mandela, and Grandma Moses show that reinvention is timeless.Mindset Matters: Positive beliefs about aging help you live longer, healthier, and more fulfilled.Start Today: Randy offers a simple 3-step process—reflect, reframe, reignite—to begin your next chapter right now.TEDx Moments: The difference between a speech and a TED Talk, the impact of storytelling, and lessons learned from stepping into the TEDx spotlight.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show:TEDx Fayetteville – Learn more about upcoming events or nominate yourself/others: tedxfayetteville.orgFayetteville Public Library – Host of the event. Check for event updates and future TEDx info.Randy mentions supporters and friends: Angela Belford, Sami Kinnison, Lu Zhang, Danielle Keller, Nicola Hawkins, and others.Randy’s grandfather: Mal Goode—ABC News’s first Black network correspondent.FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by:FindItNWA.com - Find It Fast. Find It Local.Winetopia Event - Stonebreaker,  October 10th, 2025ONBoardNWA.com HyperLocal Jobs in NWANote: 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 PageConnect with Our InstagramConnect with Our LinkedIn PageJoin the Facebook GroupConnect with our Fearless Host, Randy WilburnDiscover more by tuning into this episode and staying connected for upcoming topics from the I am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.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.comSignature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"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.

About the Show:"If there's something that's calling you and it's not harming anybody, answer the call. Just do it."       – Matt BuellOn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Matt Buell, an award-winning furniture designer and woodworker, to talk about passion, persistence, and building a career that’s true to yourself. Matt didn’t start woodworking until he was almost 30 years old, but his journey from counselor in a jail to a national-award-winning craftsman is both incredible and inspiring.You’ll hear how Matt transformed challenges into fuel for his creativity, and how woodworking helped him find direction and peace at a difficult time in his life. He shares why he gives back by mentoring young makers, his creative process, and why he believes it’s never too late to try something new. From custom restaurant pieces in Bentonville to mentoring the next generation, Matt’s story proves that it’s never too late to chase your calling—or to make a real difference in your community.Matt and Randy also highlight the importance of the trades, the value of hard work and learning from failure, and how Northwest Arkansas continues to inspire and support those who want to create something lasting.Key Takeaways:Embrace Second Chances: It’s never too late to follow a new dream or start over.The Power of Passion: True craftsmanship comes from loving your work, not just chasing a paycheck.Learning by Doing: Failure isn’t the end—it's an important part of mastering any craft.Mentorship Matters: Giving back by teaching others is both selfish and selfless; it’s a way to leave a legacy.Community Canvas: Northwest Arkansas is a rich landscape for creativity, offering opportunities and supportive people for artists and makers.Trades Are Vital: Young people can build amazing careers in skilled trades, and these paths are as valuable as a college degree.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Matt Buell’s Website: https://www.mbuellstudio.com/bioFollow Matt on Instagram and FacebookFDMC Magazine (Furniture Design Manufacturing Cabinetry): FDMC MagazineThe RYN Restaurant, Bentonville: RYNSpecial Mentions: Chef Matt Cooper, Conifer, Preacher’s Son, Northwest Arkansas Council, Center for Innovation in NWA, Mike Rowe (Dirty Jobs), ULI Northwest ArkansasFindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Apple Seeds Fall Dinner 2025 Try ONBoardNWA.com Today! *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:Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"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 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.

About the Show:"I want to see the guys that help build a company and the guys that are out there in the field...have something to fall back and be proud of, who they are. They're the backbone of this country."       – Stephen Van Der MerweIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Stephen Van Der Merwe, founder of iHawl, an innovative excavation and civil construction business based in Northwest Arkansas. Stephen shares his remarkable journey from farming in South Africa to building a thriving company in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. With a blend of "old-school grit" and modern technology, iHawl is committed to delivering on promises, meeting deadlines, and shaping the land for the next generation.Listeners will hear how Stephen’s background in farming, sports, and a strong faith shaped his work ethic and business philosophy. He details how iHawl started as a small side business with a trailer, hauling debris, and grew into a leading construction company by focusing on reliability, teamwork, and groundbreaking technology. Stephen also talks about the importance of “blue collar rising” and how iHawl supports team culture, community engagement, and career paths for both young and experienced workers in the trades.Key Takeaways:Grit and Innovation: Hard work, patience, and faith built the foundation for iHawl’s growth and success in excavation and construction.Embracing Technology: Using advanced tools and machines, like GPS-enabled equipment, helps iHawl save time, avoid mistakes, and finish projects on schedule.Community Commitment: iHawl sponsors local sports teams and invests in education and outreach to encourage new generations to join the trades.Blue Collar Rising: Stephen believes blue collar work deserves respect, recognition, and strong support for workers and their families.Opportunity for All: Whether you’re a young person considering the trades or someone looking for a career change later in life, there are rewarding jobs in construction.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Website: iHawl.comiHawl Careers and Contact: Visit the website for job openings and contact information.Phone: 479-900-4119Email: Office@ihawl.comAddress: 140 Southwinds Rd, Ste 137, Farmington, AR 72730FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*iHawl Land Specialist - Excavation and Civil Construction in Northwest ArkansasSignature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" FindItNWA.com *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:Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"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 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.

About the Show:"Public transit actually provides freedom."       – Joel GardnerThis episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Joel Gardner, Executive Director of Ozark Regional Transit (ORT), for an inside look at the state and future of public transportation in Northwest Arkansas. Joel brings years of experience from transit systems across the country and shares how Northwest Arkansas can grow smarter as the region’s population booms.From the story behind ORT’s community-centered headquarters in Springdale to the expansion of the ORT On Demand service, this episode offers practical advice, local insight, and clear reasons why investing in public transit matters for everyone—from college students and seniors to busy parents and professionals. Discover how public transportation equals freedom, relieves parking and traffic headaches, and can play a key role in the region’s future quality of life.Whether you’re new to the area, an NWA native, or simply transit-curious, this conversation will get you thinking differently about how we can all get around safely, independently, and sustainably.Key Takeaways:Transit is Freedom: Public transportation helps everyone—from teens to grandparents—get where they need to go safely and affordably.ORT On Demand = Local Uber: Order a ride within select city zones through the app, making car-free living easier across Springdale, Fayetteville, Rogers, and Bentonville.A Growing Region Needs Smarter Transit: As NWA grows, roads are getting crowded. Investing in transit now helps prevent traffic headaches, keeps costs down, and gives more people choices.Collaboration is Key: Bentonville and Rogers are leading the way by pooling resources and thinking regionally, not just city-by-city.Every Rider Makes a Difference: Taking transit just a few times a week can help reduce traffic, parking problems, and even DUIs at busy events or nights out.The Future Takes Planning: Large-scale improvements take years to fund and build. Supporting transit today ensures options for everyone tomorrow.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Ozark Regional Transit (ORT): www.ozark.orgUsing On Demand TransitDownload the ORT On Demand app (powered by Via) on iOS and AndroidCitymapper App: Get real-time trip planning across fixed routes, on-demand zones, bikes, scooters, rideshares, and future parking info.Learn about public transit funding: Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Arkansas Department of Transportation (5311 rural funding and rental car tax support).FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*The Walton Family FoundationThe Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.Hear all of the episodes from this series right HERELearn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org*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"FindItNWA.comSignature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Joshua Youngblood, Board President of the Clinton House Museum, and Bailee King, its Museum Director, share their passion for history and community engagement. They discuss the museum's role in preserving the early years of Bill and Hillary Clinton, emphasizing its significance beyond just a presidential landmark. With funding challenges, they highlight the need for community support to keep the museum accessible and vibrant. The conversation also touches on initiatives to connect with local schools and the importance of storytelling in preserving Fayetteville's rich history.

Mike Thompson and Lynn Wong, co-founders of Pedal Pops and Pedal Park, share their inspiring journey from corporate careers to local entrepreneurship. They talk about their nostalgic vision that birthed guilt-free, all-natural fruit pops infused with creativity. The duo emphasizes the importance of fostering community connections through collaborative events like trivia and bingo at their food truck park. They also dive into unique flavors like honeydew peach and candied bacon, offering insights for aspiring food entrepreneurs on the value of authenticity and community engagement.

About the Show:“This event is a bridge between what students think a job might be and an actual informed awareness about what these jobs look like.”       – Joe Rollins, NWA CouncilIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn explores how the Build My Future NWA program is giving students a real taste of working in the skilled trades. Joining him are Joe Rollins, Workforce Development Director at the Northwest Arkansas Council, and Steve Turner, Business Development Manager at Multicraft Contractors. Together, they share how this powerful, hands-on event brings thousands of high school students right to the heart of construction, welding, heavy equipment operation, and much more—long before graduation.Randy, Joe, and Steve peel back the curtain on the incredible need for skilled tradespeople in Northwest Arkansas. They highlight how Build My Future goes beyond your average career fair by letting students operate equipment, try welding, talk directly with apprentices, and see for themselves the wide variety of careers available. They also tackle big questions—like how parents, educators, and the business community can get involved, and why it’s never too late for adults to enter the trades.If you care about education, workforce development, or the future of work in Northwest Arkansas, this episode is a can't-miss.Key Takeaways:Hands-On Is Key: Build My Future NWA stands out because students actually get to try out trade skills, not just hear about them.Addressing a Regional Need: Northwest Arkansas is growing fast and needs skilled workers for everything from construction and plumbing to digital design in building trades.Community Collaboration: Over 30 sponsors and 70+ contractors across trades come together to support this event, making it a true team effort.More Than Just Kids: It’s never too late to consider a trade career. Adult learners and those seeking a second career are finding opportunities, too.Trades Are Tech-Forward: Today’s skilled trades blend hands-on work with high-tech skills, making these careers smart and future-ready.Parents, Teachers, Businesses: Everyone has a role to play in encouraging students and supporting events like Build My Future. All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Build My Future NWA: www.buildmyfuture-nwa.comCareersNWA job board and resources: www.careersnwa.comApprentice Arkansas (nontraditional apprenticeship info): https://arkansasosd.com/apprenticeship/Multicraft Contractors (apprenticeship info): https://multi-craft.net/apprenticeship-reimbursement-program/ABC Arkansas (Associated Builders and Contractors): https://www.abcark.org/Fayetteville Public Library Center for Innovation: FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryNWA Council WebsiteNWA Council on InstagramNWA Council on FacebookNWA Council on LinkedInNWA Council on TwitterNWA Council Email This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!" Try ONBoardNWA.com Today! *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:Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"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 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.

About the Show:“Why did nobody tell me about this?”– Dr. Kristin MarkellIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Dr. Kristin Markell, an integrative medicine specialist helping women navigate the often-overlooked journey of perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Markell combines her experience as a traditional OB/GYN with holistic, whole-person strategies to provide personalized care for women in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.Together, Randy and Dr. Markell break down the basics of perimenopause and menopause—including what these terms really mean, when symptoms can start, and why every woman’s experience is unique. Dr. Markell shares her personal and professional journey, the frustration women feel about the lack of education on these topics, and how integrative medicine can help women feel their best through this stage of life.The episode also explores how families, employers, and the wider community can better support women during this transition, as well as the emerging innovations and digital tools empowering women to take charge of their health.If you’re a woman, love a woman, work with women, or are simply curious, this is an important conversation for you.Key Takeaways:Menopause is natural but often misunderstood: Most women aren’t taught about perimenopause and menopause early enough. Symptoms can start as early as a woman’s 30s—not just in the 50s or 60s—and everyone’s experience is different.Definitions matter: Menopause is officially when a woman hasn’t had a period for one year; perimenopause is the 7-10 years leading up to that.Symptoms are more than hot flashes: Every area of the body can be affected, from brain fog and anxiety to fatigue, aches, and sexual health changes.You don’t have to “just deal with it”: Dr. Markell urges women not to “white knuckle” through symptoms—there are treatments and support, including both hormonal and non-hormonal options.Integrative medicine offers personalized care: Dr. Markell’s approach looks at the whole person, from nutrition to stress to long-term wellness, not just the symptoms.Support is a team effort: Family, partners, co-workers, and employers all play a role in helping women thrive during this time.Resources are growing: New digital tools, wearables, and dedicated clinics (including right here in NWA!) are giving women greater access to care and information.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Dr. Kristin Markell’s Website: https://kristinmarkellmd.comThe Menopause Society: https://www.menopause.orgDr. Markell on Instagram: @kristenmarkellmdDr. Markell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinmarkellmd/Contact Dr. Markell’s Office: 479-222-0966You can listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast weekly on KUAF 91.3 FM’s Ozarks at Large(Other resources and episodes mentioned: Mel Robbins, “The Diary of a CEO” with Steven Bartlett, Dr. Peter Attia & Dr. Rachel Rubin Podcast, Midi Health, Electra Health)FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try ONBoardNWA.com Today! *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"FindItNWA.comSignature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"