I Am Northwest Arkansas®

About the Show:"I think everyone should write—even just for themselves."       – Tom HapgoodOn this inspiring episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Tom Hapgood, longtime professor and cornerstone of the University of Arkansas's graphic design program. Together, they explore how formative experiences—especially those that cross cultures—ignite the creative spark and fundamentally shape who we become.Tom's compelling journey begins in New England but truly takes flight in Cold War-era Germany, where he lived as a "third culture kid" and witnessed history unfolding firsthand. Those transformative years abroad didn't just shape his identity—they continue to fuel his academic work, drive his creative innovation, and recently inspired his authorship of "Lost Letters," a novel that memorializes the military brat experience during one of history's most pivotal eras.Throughout their conversation, Tom reflects on how travel, storytelling, and design work together to broaden perspectives and strengthen communities. He opens up about the expanding creative opportunities in Northwest Arkansas, the evolution of the U of A's graphic design program, and both the joy and challenge of telling your own authentic story in an AI-driven world.Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or someone simply curious about life in the Ozarks, this episode delivers wisdom for living both purposefully and creatively in our vibrant region.Key Takeaways:Third Culture Kids & Cultural Growth: Tom explains how growing up as an "army brat" in Germany fostered a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for both local and global cultures—lessons he still passes on to his students.The Power of Story: Everyone has a book inside them, and writing—longhand or typed—offers a chance to process experience, build bridges, and leave lasting breadcrumbs for others navigating similar journeys.Innovation & Design in NWA: The University of Arkansas’s graphic design program has grown into a top-tier, competitive platform, fueling opportunities for creative careers right here in Northwest Arkansas.Navigating Change & Community: Tom and Randy discuss the region’s rapid growth, the blending of lifelong locals and transplants, and the evolving identity of NWA as a thriving, inclusive creative hub.Embracing and Evaluating AI: AI’s role in creativity and education is complex—Tom offers candid reflections on its place in creative fields, underscoring the enduring value of hands-on skill and authentic storytelling.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Instagram: @tomhap88LinkedIn: Tom HapgoodBook: Lost Letters on Amazon University of Arkansas Graphic Design ProgramSchool of Art – U of ALocal Bookstores MentionedPearl’s Books – Fayetteville, ARTwo Friends Bookstore – Bentonville, ARUnderbrush Books – Rogers, ARFindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" HootOwl Legal Ver 2 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: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.comApple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025Evening 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.Apple Seeds Fall Dinner 2025Winetopia 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! Winetopia 2025

About the Show:"I think putting numbers in front of people, even showing them a seller's net sheet, can help explain what their next step should be, whether they wait or they sell now."       – Desiree StockIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Desiree Stock and Stuart Collier, the real estate professionals behind NWA Look, a data-driven weekly newsletter that's becoming essential reading for anyone navigating Northwest Arkansas's dynamic housing market.Desiree brings a unique perspective to the region's real estate landscape, having made her own transition from Florida's market to NWA. Her dedication to providing clear, objective market data led to the creation of NWA Look, which now serves buyers, sellers, investors, and appraisers nationwide. Randy, drawing on his background as a former Boston real estate broker, explores how Desiree's commitment to transparency is reshaping how people understand local market trends.The conversation reveals how real-time data and market insights empower better decision-making in NWA's competitive and rapidly evolving real estate environment. Desiree and Stuart share their expertise on reading market signals, address ongoing challenges like infrastructure development and housing supply constraints, and offer valuable guidance for anyone considering making Northwest Arkansas their home.Whether you're a longtime resident, potential newcomer, or real estate professional, this episode delivers actionable insights into one of the region's most important sectors.Key Takeaways:Honest Market Insights: NWA Look provides unbiased, deep-dive data about cities like Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, and Springdale—giving you a clear picture of what’s happening in local real estate.Data Over Emotion: When numbers are clear, buyers and sellers can make better decisions instead of relying just on feelings or hearsay.Infrastructure Matters: Growth in Northwest Arkansas isn’t just about new homes—it’s about water, roads, and sewers that make building possible.Trusted Resource: The newsletter is valued by everyone from out-of-state investors to local appraisers. It’s even unbranded, making it a tool for the whole real estate community.Staying Connected: The NWA Look newsletter is out every Thursday and aims to keep you ahead of the curve, whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want to keep up with what’s next.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*NWA Look Newsletter: Sign up at nwalook.com for your weekly, in-depth real estate updates.NWA Look on InstagramNWA Look on FaceboookCrew@NWALook.com: Email Desiree with questions or partnership/sponsorship requests.Collier & Associates Real EstateEpisode 232: Relationships are the Foundation: Stuart Collier’s Key to Success in the Real Estate IndustryFindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" FindItNWA.com HootOwl Legal Ver 2 *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: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! Winetopia 2025Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025Evening 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.Apple Seeds Fall Dinner 2025FindItNWA.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:"If we don't talk about these stories, it's like it never happened."Anthony BallIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn visits The Music Depot in Downtown Rogers for an engaging conversation with Anthony Ball and Reggie James, co-owners of The Music Depot and leaders of the nonprofit Music Moves. Both accomplished musicians and passionate community builders, Anthony and Reggie share the inspiring story behind their venue and reveal how they're reshaping the region's cultural landscape one performance at a time.Randy, Anthony, and Reggie discuss how The Music Depot emerged from their vision to establish a permanent space where music, culture, education, and community events could flourish under one roof. This innovative venue is filling a crucial gap in Northwest Arkansas's growing arts scene.From live band karaoke and jazz jam nights to educational workshops and kids' camps, The Music Depot is quickly becoming a hub for artists, music lovers, and neighbors from all walks of life. The space represents something unique in the region—a place where musical boundaries dissolve and community connections form naturally.You'll also hear about Music Moves' broader mission to celebrate Black music and culture in the region, create opportunities for youth, and build bridges across towns like Rogers, Fayetteville, Bentonville, Springdale, and beyond. Anthony and Reggie share powerful stories about the transformative impact music can have on young lives and entire communities.Whether you're a performer looking for your next stage, a parent seeking creative opportunities for your kids, or someone who believes in the power of music to unite communities, this episode reveals how two visionaries are building something extraordinary in the heart of Northwest Arkansas.Key Takeaways:The Music Depot is a new cultural hub in Downtown Rogers, offering live music, karaoke with a live band, comedy nights, and community events.Music Moves hosts programs that connect students, professionals, and audiences—including jazz and blues nights open to all ages and skill levels.The Depot’s summer camps and engineering workshops provide vital exposure to music and technical skills, preparing youth for careers in the growing local arts scene.Local businesses and community groups can rent The Music Depot for special events, team-building activities, and more.Partnerships with local organizations are helping Northwest Arkansas punch above its weight in arts and culture, offering big-city talent with small-town heart.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*The Music Depot (visit or contact for events and rentals)Music Moves – Website: musicmovesar.com | Instagram: @musicmovesarEmail Anthony or Reggie at: anthony@musicmovesar.com or reggie@musicmovesar.comFunk Factory (Anthony’s band)Jazz/Blues Jam & Karaoke with Live Band – Fridays and Thursdays at The Music DepotCity of RogersRogers-Lowell Area Chamber of CommerceHerman’s Ribhouse (food partner at The Music Depot)Crystal Bridges Museum of American ArtJJ’s Live, George’s Majestic Lounge, The AMP, & The Momentary (local music venues mentioned)Frisco Kid (local comedian and host of comedy nights at The Music Depot)Ultra Suede (another local music group)FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*(Sponsored by)Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" FindItNWA.com HootOwl Legal Ver 2 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: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! Winetopia 2025Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025Evening 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.Apple Seeds Fall Dinner 2025FindItNWA.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

Joanna Krause, Executive Director of Canopy NWA, and Shabnam Faizy, a refugee from Afghanistan working in Youth Services, discuss the transformative impact of Canopy NWA on refugee lives in Northwest Arkansas. They delve into the challenges of resettlement, emphasizing the need for community integration over mere assimilation. Their 'long welcome' approach has launched numerous refugee-owned businesses and has become vital amid federal program pauses. Personal stories reveal resilience, hope, and the importance of community involvement in creating a supportive environment for newcomers.

Chef Tyler Rogers, Executive Chef at Stonebreaker Restaurant, shares his inspiring culinary journey from Arkansas to prestigious kitchens like the French Laundry. He passionately discusses his commitment to farm-to-table cooking, emphasizing connections with local farmers. Tyler talks about the importance of inclusive menus, including vegan and gluten-free options, and reflects on his dreams of opening a diner. His story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the joy of community through food, making it a deliciously uplifting conversation.

About the Show:"Once I learned that they'd give me trophies and awards and scholarships for saying words, I thought, that's in my wheelhouse."Aaron MankinIn this powerful episode of I am Northwest Arkansas™, we revisit the story of Aaron Mankin, a U.S. Marine who survived a devastating IED explosion in Iraq. Aaron shares his journey of recovery—from the battlefield to burn treatment to becoming an advocate for fellow veterans.His story is one of deep sacrifice, resilience, and the healing power of community and purpose.As we honor Memorial Day, this conversation reminds us of the personal cost of war and the strength it takes to carry on.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Listen to the original IANWA episode - 292. Email Steve MankinFindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*HootOwl Legal Ver 2 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: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.comWinetopia 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! Winetopia 2025Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025Evening 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.Apple Seeds Fall Dinner 2025

About the Show:The Struggle of Balancing Motherhood and Ambition: "And I said, okay, I'm going to say yes to every single thing that I possibly can. Even if that means that I'm not home for dinner, that I might not see Lucy as much as I want to."       – Mallory FilesIn this inspiring episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Mallory Files, founder of Ozark Charcuterie and Wine Bar in Fayetteville. Mallory opens up about her personal journey—from escaping a difficult family situation and dealing with heartbreaking loss to saying “yes” to new chances and creating a vibrant business that has taken Northwest Arkansas by storm.Mallory shares how she turned grief and mental health struggles into a passion for creativity, building a small side hustle into a fast-growing business with a strong digital presence. She also discusses her work with the Northwest Arkansas Women’s Shelter and her commitment to raising awareness for domestic violence survivors and their families.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a food lover, or someone looking for hope in hard times, this episode will motivate you with Mallory’s story of resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of community.Key Takeaways:Turning Pain Into Purpose: Mallory shares how losing her sister to domestic violence shaped her advocacy and business philosophy.Say Yes to Opportunity: Saying yes to every chance, even when it meant risking failure or discomfort, fueled Mallory’s business growth.Community Over Everything: Mallory emphasizes the value of connecting with others and serving customers with care and authenticity.Authentic Storytelling Works: Mallory’s success on social media came from showing up as herself and sharing her journey, not just her products.Support Local & Give Back: Ozark Charcuterie isn’t just about good food—Mallory makes giving back part of her mission by supporting the Women’s Shelter and community events.Personal Growth Through Business: Being open about life’s ups and downs creates stronger businesses and more meaningful relationships.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Ozark Charcuterie Website: www.ozarkcharcuterie.comOzark Charcuterie and Wine Bar on InstagramMallory Files on Instagram: @malloryfilesMallory Files on LinkedInNorthwest Arkansas Women’s ShelterFindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*HootOwl Legal Ver 2 FindItNWA.com 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: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.comApple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025Evening 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.Apple Seeds Fall Dinner 2025Winetopia 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! Winetopia 2025

In this conversation, Tom Judson, CEO of the Bella Vista Property Owners Association, shares his insights on transforming Bella Vista from a retirement haven into a thriving multigenerational community. He talks about the community's impressive amenities, including seven golf courses and over 100 miles of trails. The discussion highlights the importance of inclusivity, engaging activities for all ages, and the vibrant recreational opportunities that make Bella Vista a top destination in Northwest Arkansas.

Mario Troncoso, an award-winning filmmaker, producer, and director, delves into the creation of 'City of Songs,' a PBS series that explores music and culture globally, all starting in Northwest Arkansas. He discusses the challenges of producing in a smaller city and the importance of fostering a creative community. The conversation touches on the influence of K-pop on Seoul's music scene and the essential role of diversity in media. Mario shares his aspirations for the region as a hub for innovation and global collaboration.

Duke McLarty, Executive Director of Groundwork at the Northwest Arkansas Council, tackles the pressing issue of housing affordability. He shares eye-opening statistics, including a staggering 72.5% rise in home prices over five years. The conversation highlights the innovative GROW framework, which promotes collaboration for diverse housing solutions. McLarty emphasizes the need for revised zoning laws to enhance accessibility and community involvement. Tune in for actionable ideas on shaping a sustainable future for Northwest Arkansas!