I Am Northwest Arkansas®

About this Bonus Episode:"There are no overnight sensations. Success comes from putting in years of time and effort..” - Natosha DevonNaTosha Devon is a prominent figure in Northwest Arkansas' art scene. As a gifted thespian, she has graced the stage in countless productions at Theater Squared, earning acclaim for her compelling performances. Not one to shy away from creative challenges, she has penned her own play entitled “Ain't I a Woman,” which is making its debut August 10-12, 2023, at the Arts Live Theater in Fayetteville,Drawing from her enriching academic experience at the University of Arkansas, NaTosha never passes up an opportunity to bring intriguing narratives to life. With her dedication and contagious passion for the arts, she makes waves in the local arts community.What you will learn in this episode:Uncover the vital influence of local artists in enhancing Northwest Arkansas.Navigate through the creation of a thriving arts community in Northwest Arkansas.Learn about the societal nuances explored in the play, Ain't I a Woman.Recognize the inherent healing power of art and its potential to foster personal growth.All this and more on this Bonus Episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*NaTosha DevonNaTosha Devon ImdbTickets for Ain’t I A Woman Play Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.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.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.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. FindItNWA.com

About the Show:"I feel like you can make a difference here. It's not so large, it's not established that the die is already cast. Each one of us can make a difference in this place.” - Nelson PeacockBorn and raised in Arkansas, Nelson Peacock always had a sense of belonging to the Natural state. After a stint in Washington DC, and California, where he pursued his career in public policy, the opportunity to head the Northwest Arkansas Council lured him back home. Nelson's return was prompted by his own realization of the tremendous growth and potential of the region, and his desire to be part of that journey. He was particularly intrigued by the council's vision for balanced economic growth, focusing on both the Fortune 500s of the corporate world and small and medium-sized businesses dotting the landscape of NWA. The Northwest Arkansas Council’s unique collaborative approach, which brings together various stakeholders, educators, and businesses, resonated with Nelson's belief in collective growth. His focus on improving healthcare, boosting workforce development, and fostering entrepreneurial growth, is a testament to his commitment to making Arkansas an attractive destination for businesses and talent alike.Nelson is particularly passionate about workforce development, entrepreneurial support, and improving healthcare access. In his view, these elements not only contribute to economic growth but also to the quality of life in the region. The healthcare initiative, specifically, strikes a chord with Nelson, as he sees it as a way to enrich the lives of local individuals and contribute to the region's economy. His story is a testament to the power of collaboration in fostering regional development and progress.What you will learn in this episode:Uncover the secrets behind Northwestern Arkansas's booming economic growth and effective workforce programs.Peek into the synergistic collaborations of infrastructure development that are reshaping the entire region.Discover the progressive steps taken to enhance healthcare accessibility in Northwest Arkansas.Understand the complications and creative solutions to addressing affordable housing issues in the area.Learn about the value of supporting local startups and the exciting world of creating a successful entrepreneurial ecosystem.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Nelson PeacockWebsite for Northwest Arkansas CouncilNWA Council on InstagramNWA Council on FacebookNWA Council on TwitterNWA Council on LinkedInThis 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.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Thank 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.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. 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:Join us for a heartfelt "Best of" episode as we re-introduce the inaugural entry into the I Am Northwest Arkansas Podcast Hall of Fame. While we are excited to honor exceptional episodes, we are deeply saddened by the circumstances surrounding this first entry.Two years ago, Mark Zweig introduced us to the remarkable entrepreneur Brant Barnes. In an unforgettable conversation at his Shelter Insurance office in Fayetteville, Brant shared captivating stories that spanned his childhood to his successful ventures as an adult. From owning pizza food franchises to managing rental properties and running a thriving insurance agency, Brant's energy and accomplishments left a lasting impression.Sadly, we lost Brant earlier this year in a plane crash near Drake Field. In memory of his remarkable journey and the impact he made, we honored him with Episode 204, titled "How NWA Serial Entrepreneur Brant Barnes Found Success in Authenticity," as the first inductee into our Hall of Fame.In this episode, you'll hear Brant's inspiring story and gain valuable insights if you've faced challenges in business or life. Join us in cherishing each day and consider sharing this episode with others who may benefit from its powerful message.Godspeed, Brant. Your legacy lives on through our podcast and the lives you touched.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show* IANWA Show Notes with Brant Barnes and Episode 204Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.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.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.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. FindItNWA.comSignature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

About the Show:Indulge in a delightful blend of teas as we present a special "Best of" episode on the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Join us as we revisit an enlightening conversation with Ola Atilola, a tea expert from ASAMI Teas, a local tea company specializing in exquisite teas sourced from the African continent.Ola's passion lies in providing healthy teas to a wide audience. Discover the centuries-old tea-drinking cultures of Africa and the revitalizing impact they can have on your well-being. ASAMI Teas aims to reintroduce a healthier lifestyle through their diverse selection of Rooibos, Green Tea, and Black Teas—each a refreshing and nourishing choice.Experience the goodness of ASAMI's teas firsthand and support this homegrown tea company that originated right here in Northwest Arkansas. Tune in to this "Best of" episode and let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey of flavors and wellness.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Olabiyi (Ola) AtilolaWebsite for Asami TeasAsami Teas on InstagramAsami Teas on FacebookAsami Teas on LinkedInIANWA Show Notes with Ola Atilola and ASAMI Teas Episode 161Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.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.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.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. FindItNWA.com

About the Show:As we take some much-needed time off to rest and recharge, we present to you a special "Best of" episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Join us as we revisit one of our most listened-to episodes featuring Doug Riverman Allen, the owner of Joses Bar & Grill in Tontitown, known for serving one of the best brunches in Northwest Arkansas. This encore presentation delves into Doug's inspiring story of perseverance during the early stages of the pandemic. Plus, we catch up with him to learn about his book-writing experience and the heartfelt connection he has with the Kings River.Don't miss this captivating episode and more as we bring you the best moments from 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*Email Doug AllenWebsite for Kings RiverIANWA Show Notes with Jose Allen Episode 60 Don’t Give Up  and 182 Kings River GuideTune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large. This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! 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.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.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. 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:"The money speaks volumes. And we think about that a lot in Pink House. We want to be disruptive and competitive and make money and grow in that way and use and spend our dollars the way that we think is effective and can be helpful for the community.” - Emily LawsonIn today's episode, we have the pleasure of introducing Emily Lawson, a dynamic entrepreneur and staunch advocate for community collaboration in the food and beverage sector. The heartbeat of Pink House Alchemy, Emily has been instrumental in fostering a spirit of unity and innovation among local businesses in Northwest Arkansas. Her unwavering dedication to utilizing local resources for her products and commitment to ethical and sustainable sourcing is truly admirable. Emily's infectious enthusiasm, creative spirit, and deep-seated love for connecting with others position her as a valued mentor and friend within her community.The quaint setting of her great grandparents' farm provided the backdrop to Emily's childhood, instilling in her a deep respect for fresh produce and the virtue of hard work. Her culinary journey took her across the United States, culminating in a pivotal experience at the bustling farmer's market in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It was here that Emily honed her understanding of the invaluable role of community and collaboration in the food and beverage industry.Pink House Alchemy represents Emily's commitment to building strong relationships with farmers and suppliers, with an emphasis on sustainability and quality. Despite various obstacles, such as unstable vanilla bean prices or devastated strawberry crops, Emily's passion and determination have only strengthened. Today, Pink House Alchemy stands as a successful business entity, providing robust support to local farmers while delighting customers far and wide with their premium products. Join us to discover more about Emily's inspiring journey and the transformative impact of her initiatives in the industry.What you will learn in this episode:Gain insights into effective entrepreneurship and business management tactics.Delve into the positive impact of sustainable practices and local ingredient sourcing.Get updated on current non-alcoholic beverage trends revolutionizing the market.Unravel the importance of community building and collaboration in the food and beverage industry.Tackle the difficulties of transitioning during the pandemic to e-commerce and direct-to-consumer strategies.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Pink House AlchemyEmail Pink House AlchemyWebsite for Pink House AlchemyPink House Alchemy on FacebookPink House Alchemy on InstagramThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! 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.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.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. FindItNWA.com

About the Show:"Most small business owners struggle with the whole concept of growing their business because they work in their business, not on it...the importance of working on your business, not just in it.” - Randy WilburnIn this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas, we explore the expansion of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program into rural America. Join host Randy Wilburn and guest Nicaela Chinnaswamy as they discuss the importance of supporting small businesses in underserved areas. But what happens when these small businesses face challenges they can't overcome? Tune in to find out!What you will learn in this episode:Discover the opportunities offered through the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program for small business owners.Explore financial education and resources available to enhance your business ventures.Uncover the benefits of joining the program, such as invaluable peer networks and alumni connections.Learn about the significance of supporting small businesses in underserved areas and how it positively impacts communities.Gain insightful tips to work on your business for long-term success and growth.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Go to www.10ksbapply.com and submit a part one application to apply for the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program in Arkansas.If you have any questions or want more information, email arkansas10ksb@icic.org.Apply soon, as the applications are only open for another week, - 6/30/2023.Even if you miss the current application round, the program will run every year, so keep an eye out for the next open enrollment opportunity.Take advantage of the dedicated time in the program to work on your business instead of in your business.Utilize the network of peers and business advisors to gain valuable insights and guidance.Use the program as a catalyst to grow your business and create more jobs.Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! 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.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.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. 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:"Always remember, someone's always watching.” - Dr. John L. ColbertWelcome to another episode of our podcast, where today we are thrilled to feature Dr. John L. Colbert. With an illustrious career in education spanning over forty years, Dr. Colbert has dedicated his life to the Fayetteville Public Schools in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Starting his journey as a special education teacher, his relentless passion and commitment elevated him to the prestigious role of superintendent, leaving a lasting impression on the community. Championing the cause of inclusion, Dr. Colbert has been an instrumental figure in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Council. His tireless efforts toward fostering diversity and equality within the realm of education are truly commendable. When he's not advocating for educational change, he's a devoted family man with a keen interest in travel. As he embarks on his next life chapter, he's eager to create memories with his granddaughters and satiate his wanderlust by exploring the globe.Dr. Colbert's career trajectory is marked by unwavering dedication and resilience. Early in his career, he maintained a perfect attendance record for three years, despite a grueling commute, reflecting his immense commitment to his role. As he navigated his way up the professional ladder, his primary goal was to leave a positive imprint on his students' lives. Assuming diverse leadership roles over the years, his crowning achievement was his appointment as superintendent of Fayetteville Public Schools. Dr. Colbert's inspiring journey underscores the profound impact of steadfast commitment, passion, and the understanding that one's actions are always under observation, paving the way for opportunities for those who consistently strive for excellence. Join us to delve deeper into the enriching narrative of Dr. Colbert's life and career.What you will learn in this episode:Examine the driving force behind Fayetteville Public Schools' adaptive and innovative pandemic response in maintaining learning continuity.Engage with the challenges and rewards of fostering diversity and inclusion within Fayetteville's unique educational environment.Celebrate Dr. Colbert's tireless advocacy and storied career as a special education teacher.Realize the immense value of critical thinking in equipping students for a successful future in a rapidly changing world.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Reach out to Dr. John L. Colbert to send congratulations and thanks for his service to the community.Consider volunteering in your local Northwest Arkansas community.Attend events and support local organizations like the Dr. Martin Luther King Council.Explore the Northwest Arkansas area and enjoy life.Follow the Special Olympics and support their mission.Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.ALAN WILBOURN,Executive Director of Communications & Public Relations,Communications Department(479) 973-8654This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! 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.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.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. 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:"Music is a unifying force. - Anthony BallOn this episode, we hear from two of Northwest Arkansas’ black culture influencers, Anthony Ball and Rochelle Bailey, and their collaboration to celebrate Juneteenth through the Freedom Festival in Springdale, Arkansas, this June, promoting diverse representation in music and fashion.Through their respective organizations, Music Moves and Interform, they strive to create a more inclusive environment where people from all walks of life can come together and learn about the richness of black history, culture, music, and fashion. Anthony and Rochelle peel back the layers of a vital moment in American history: Juneteenth. Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. They talk about the decision to create the Freedom Festival and why the third year of the event will be bigger and better than ever.What you will learn in this episode:Discover the celebration of Black culture and history through the influential roles of music and fashion.Uncover the crucial significance of Juneteenth in preserving and promoting Black history and culture.Explore the immense potential of collaboration and community engagement for driving social change.Learn how the music and fashion industries have adapted and evolved amidst the challenges of the pandemic.Delve into the establishment of safe spaces that enable learning and facilitate open dialogues on difficult topics.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email rochelle@interform.artEmail anthony@musicmovesar.comWebsite for InterformWebsite for Music MovesInterform on FacebookInterform on InstagramRo Bailey on LinkedInRo Bailey on FacebookRo Bailey on InstagramMusic Moves on InstagramMusic Moves on FacebookMusic Moves on YouTubeClick HERE to learn more about the Freedom Festival with Music Moves ArkansasTune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! 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.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.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. FindItNWA.com

About the Show:"The most successful cities of the future are going to be those that are the most adaptable to change.” - Emily HamiltonIn the second installment of the Future is Now Speaker Series, Randy Wilburn talks to Duke McLarty, Matthew Petty, and Emily Hamilton about affordable housing in the region. The guests highlight the importance of addressing the shortage of affordable housing in growing urban areas, including Northwest Arkansas. Hamilton suggests thinking beyond increasing the supply of homes to focus on building housing in high-opportunity areas. Petty introduces the concept of pattern zones, which pre-approve buildings for construction, as a new approach to tackle the issue of slow permitting. The speakers discuss the success of small lot single-family developments in Houston and multifamily housing in high-density areas like Palisades Park, New Jersey. Hamilton talks about the importance of legalizing small lot single-family development and multifamily housing in commercial spaces to build housing in areas with existing infrastructure in place. All of the guests emphasized the importance of building trust with communities by showing clear renderings and visual models to execute successful housing projects. This event took place at the Northwest Arkansas Board of Realtors in Lowell, AR. "We have a responsibility to create places where everybody can live, work, learn, and play.” - Matthew PettyWhat you will learn in this episode:Delve into the effects of zoning regulations on residential construction.Understand the importance of fostering relationships between government and community entities.Discover groundbreaking ways to address housing affordability, featuring ADUs and housing finance innovations.Realize the essentiality of tailoring strategies to complement unique local needs and conditions.Learn the benefits of educating involved parties and seeking guidance from external sources.All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show* Download a copy of Emily Hamilton's policy brief on Housing Reform in the States.Check out the Market Urbanism blog for more insights on urban economics and land use policy.Look into the Pattern Zones program to learn more about how cities can guide development and lower barriers to small parcel development.Attend the next iteration of the Future is Now speaker series on June 21 at Crystal Bridges, which will focus on community engagement.Visit the Northwest Arkansas Council's website to learn more about their initiatives related to workforce housing, development, recruitment, and retention.Consider becoming a member of the Northwest Arkansas Board of Realtors to stay informed about the local housing market and support their efforts to provide member support, MLS management, and education opportunities.Get involved in advocating for state-level policies that limit local regulations and streamline procedures to increase housing abundance and affordability.Explore opportunities to repurpose underutilized commercial sites for residential development in your community.Email Emily HamiltonEmail Matthew PettyEmail Duke McLartyEmily Hamilton on LinkedInMatthew Petty on LinkedInDuke McLarty on LinkedInConnect with the Northwest Arkansas CouncilWebsite for NWA CouncilNWA Council on InstagramNWA Council on FacebookNWA Council on LinkedInNWA Council on TwitterTune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Try Canva For Free Today! 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.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.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. FindItNWA.com