O Lala! (In the Dungeon)

This week, we chat with our friend Alejandro, a Cuban immigrant, about his incredible journey to Richmond, VA. He shares the hurdles of getting a US visa, the culture shock of abundance in America, and his efforts to support his family in Cuba.Episode Highlights: ✨Visa Interview Strategy: Alejandro shares his unique approach to a successful visa interview, emphasizing showing intent to return home. ☕️A Five-Year Visa?! Discover how Alejandro secured a rare five-year visa!

In this lively episode, Liz and Big Daddy sit down to share their "rose and thorn" moments from the past few weeks—celebrating the highs and unpacking the lows with their funny but honest takes. The couple then turns up the fun with a married couple game that reveals just how well they really know each other.Listeners also get an update on the Drop it On Us, Big Daddy segment, where Big Daddy dishes out his takes on the continuing drama surrounding Fyre Fest 2, the ongoing drama with Carytown Burgers and Fries, and upcoming developments surrounding Brown's Island. The duo shares exciting news about upcoming events and dive into what's so yummy about the business of the week, Slay Burger.To top it all off, the show of the week is a nostalgic nod to the 90s with The White Ford Bronco concert Saturday May 3rd at The Broadberry—expect some major throwback vibes and musical memories.Tune in for laughs, love, business buzz, and a little 90s magic!Shoutouts: Ronnie's BBQ, Chez Nous, Diva NailsOther businesses mentioned: The Shockoe Institute, Ballast RVA, Cirrus Vodka, Yellow Umbrella Provisions, Slack Tide Fish Company

✨ This Episode's Vibe: Rabbi Patrick, the founder of Kehillah RVA, joins us to talk about building welcoming Jewish spaces, making rituals approachable, and what it means to be part of a modern faith community—especially in a city like Richmond.

In this week's episode, we're talking all things Harry's with the incredible Natalie McNamara, co-owner of the iconic Harry's in RVA. We're getting the inside scoop on what it's like to run a vibrant spot in Richmond, the secrets behind their delicious cocktails, and how they keep the party going in one of the city's most historic buildings.

In this episode of O Lala! in RVA, we celebrate hitting 1,000 followers (thank you!) and then dive into an inspiring conversation with Katie Kenyon, Executive Director of Village Green RVA. Katie shares how Village Green is tackling food insecurity, providing fresh meals to thousands, and creating a true sense of community in Richmond. From sourcing food to supporting foster families, Katie's work is changing lives. Plus, we get into some local drama (Secret Sandwich Society buns, anyone?), shout out our favorite RVA spots, and drop all the details on upcoming events you won't want to miss!What You'll Hear in This Episode:

Welcome back to another lively episode of O Lala! (in RVA). This week, we're diving into all things spring break beauty with special guest Alison Clary, a licensed esthetician and owner of Malibu Tans. She shares her top three spring break beauty essentials, including a must-have sunscreen hack you might not know about!

Sam founded Trying to Adult RVA in October 2021. Shortly after moving to RVA, the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic happened, making it even harder to make friends. When the community started to reopen and recover, Sam wanted to find an easier way to make new friends. She started creating events via Meetup to see if others would want to join. They did! Within the first year, the group grew by thousands, and she planned over 100 events. She continues to plan fun events within the Richmond and surrounding areas and loves to constantly see new friendships being made. Her hope is that young adults who join Trying to Adult RVA build lasting connections and friendships. She believes everyone is unique and deserving of friends. She strives to create a welcoming community where anyone can meet their new best friend.Interested in trying out Trying To Adult RVA for yourself? Use our code Olala at checkout for a free month of membership. After that, membership is only $5 a month and you can cancel at any time! What do you have to lose? https://tryingtoadultrva.com/become-a-member/We also talk about our "Rose & Thorn" of the month, RVA's "wonderful" mail system, business and band of the week and local upcoming events.Support Trying To Adult RVA:@tryingtoadultrvaFacebookMeetupEvents:Saturday, February 15: Dark Valentine's FANTASY BALL: A Morbid Masquerade8PM at Harry's in RVA. Tickets $33Sunday, February 16: Sips & Sweethearts1-6PM at Cirrus VodkaSunday, February 16: Galentine's Rustic Charm Arrangement Workshop1-2:30PM at Saudé Creek VineyardsSaturday March 15th - Sunday March 16th: The Church Hill Irish Festival10AM - 6PM in Church Hill area, suggested donation of $5, free parking and free shuttle.Band of the week: Wannabe - A Spice Girls TributeThey're playing on Thursday, Feb 20th at Uptown Alley. Grab your ticket here.Business of the week:The Black Olive Richmond Italian / Hiphop fusion

On today's episode we have Justin Ferguson, aka “the Black Somm” and wine director for the Underground Kitchen in Richmond. If you remember back in June of 2024 we had Michael Sparks on - CEO of the Underground Kitchen. We met Justin while attending the UGK's Summertime Cookout Dining Experience. We enjoyed a professionally prepared six-course BBQ classics, wine pairings by Justin and a live DJ.Justin is a WSET Level 3 certified Sommelier advising his friends and family on how to select and enjoy a nice bottle of wine for any occasion. He also is a real estate agent advising clients on how to navigate the purchase or sale of their investment property.On this episode we also talk the recent alarming weather events, VA wine history, upcoming local events and more.Support JustinBand Of The Week: TheoclesBusiness Of The Week: Ripple Ray'sUpcoming RVA Events:MJ The Musical: Jan 28-Feb 2Alice In Wonderland (aerial cirque production): Jan 30 - Feb 1Richmond Anime-Fest: Sunday, Feb 2, 10AM-5PMRichmond Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Fest, Feb 8, 11:30AM-9PMShoutouts:Wine Spots in RVA:Second BottleJ EmersonBarrel ThiefPenny'sJolene WineryJ. DaanJames River CellarsUpper ShirleyGarden GroveBrambly ParkAshton CreekSaudé CreekOxford CellarsCelladoraThe Wine WhispererEchelonOnce Upon a VineNew Kent WineryGrayhavenOther Shoutouts:UGKMichael SparksVirginia Wine ExpoThe Perfect BeanThe Chimbo Sandwich ShopThe Governor's Cup

The dynamic trio of Liz, Olivia, and Big Daddy return with another hilarious episode of "O Lala! (In the Dungeon)." We kick things off with a New Year's extravaganza, discussing our favorite New Years traditions. Then, it's time for a "Hot Topic" segment dedicated to Luigi Mangione and his criminal escapades. Next, Big Daddy takes the lead in a thrilling trivia challenge, testing our knowledge on everything from opossums to obscure facts. We then discuss the hottest New Years events in town and how to survive the holiday season with our sanity intact. And to wrap it up, we feature the "Band of the Week" and "Business of the Week," showcasing the vibrant Richmond scene. So sit back, relax, and join us for an hour of laughter, fun, and unforgettable moments on "O Lala! (In the Dungeon)!"

On today's episode we have Amanda, a competing body builder in RVA. Upon having twins, Amanda's doctor advised her to start lifting weights to strengthen her core muscles which ultimately sparked her passion for picking up heavy things and putting them down again. Since then, she came in second place for her master's class and she won her open class. We discuss the injury that lead her to begin bodybuilding, how she preps for competition, how she found her coach, dieting (cutting, bulking and reverse), the different kinds of bodybuilding competitions and more!We also talk about the Cyber Truck, Arnold Schwarzenegger and the origins of the demon Krampus!

On today's episode, miss_elaine_neous (RVA's small business hype-woman) is back on the pod to discuss what she's been up to since the last time we had her on the pod, her newest RVA venture called "Let's Hang" and our favorite upcoming holiday events and traditions in the city. We also talk about the dangers of AI, the history of the Tattoo and more!Support Elaine:@miss_elaine_neous@letshangrvaFun Restaurants With Christmas Vibes:Birdie's Christmas Popup "The Evergreen"The Emerald Lounge Christmas Popup "Sippin' Santa"The Jasper Christmas Popup "Miracle On Cary St." try the snowball old fashionedBeaucoup's Christmas Popup "Noel"ShyndigzRVA Christmas Events:Church Hill & Museum District Christmas House ToursStony Point Ice Skating RinkSunday, Dec. 8th, 10AM-4PM - Quirk Days of Christmas & Common House's Holiday MarketBusch Gardens Christmas TownRVA tacky light toursRVA TukTuk ToursDec. 24th RVA Boat Parade in Rocketts LandingCross Creek Nursery - get a Christmas Tree and a beerLewis Ginter Dominion Energy GardenFestDrive Through Light ShowDec. 18th @6PM Tacky Light Run 6KRVA Charities/Volunteer Opportunities:RVA Community Fridges - donate food!Matchbox - cook as a team for families in needThe Underground Kitchen - volunteer for ThanksgivingNomad Deli - buy $7 meals where money goes to familiesBand Of The Week:Richmond Pops Band - a community based organization and concert band that has been providing exciting and dynamic musical experiences to the Richmond community for over 45 years.Their free Christmas concert is on Tuesday, Dec. 17th at 7:30 at the Altria Theatre. Ticket Link: https://www.richmondpops.com/holidayconcertticketsBusiness Of The Week:The Shoppes at 5807 - 25 different local vendors of unique products. Great place to shop local for Christmas.Other Shoutouts:Nugget's NurseryVA This MorningFat RabbitFETCH A CureBlack LodgeSessionBarWestDinner PartyRVA Rage RoomPoe's Pub

On today's episode we have Tim, a RVA wildlife enthusiast. Ever since Tim was a kid he has been obsessed with snakes, searching for and ethically capturing them in swamps and forests around Richmond as well as other reptiles in the South. Tim makes Youtube videos and Tiktoks documenting his wildlife adventures and educating people about the animals he runs into. He professionally removes copperheads and wasps for people around the area. He also recently painted his truck like a copperhead!We discuss all things snakes in VA - what ones to avoid and ones that are safe to handle.We also discuss America's obsession with true crime and the Netflix Series Monsters - The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story.Support Tim's Wildlife Herping Channels:InstagramTikTokYouTubeEvents-Andre 3000 @Altria Theatre on Nov 8th - https://www.altriatheater.com/events/detail/andre-3000-Gwar @The National Nov 9th - https://www.axs.com/events/594224/gwar-tickets/staticDetails?_locale=en-US-Babymetal @The National Nov 16th - https://theanthemdc.com/event/babymetal/-Garden Glow @Maymont - https://maymont.org/calendar/garden-glow/-Pets On Parade put on by FETCH A Cure on Nov 15th - https://www.azhumane.org/pets-on-parade/Business of the week: Sumer Briana Pet GroomingAre you looking for a trusting professional pet groomer? Olivia's boyfriend has a Pomeranian named Izzy and she always looks fabulous thanks to Sumer. Sumer does everything from shelter to vet grooming to standard breed cuts, baths and nail trims. She also does pet-safe hair coloring and nail painting which is so fun. She always puts a pink heart on Izzy's butt!Another service she offers is home grooms for people who prefer their dog to be groomed at home or don't have the ability to travel to a salon. Those spots tend to fill up quickly.Sumer works with Carytown Petco Grooming Salon. Book her now by adding her on Facebook at Sumer Briana. Contact Carytown Petco Grooming Salon for appointments and prices.Band of the week: Carbon LeafOriginally formed as a college cover band in 1992, they've played over 3,000 shows together. They help define the arts in indie rock. Currently touring Time Is A Playground. Coming to The National on Dec 21st. They're from Richmond!Shoutouts:Matt's work equipment thief

On today's exciting episode we sit down with Balsac the Jaws 'o Death (Mike Derks) and new lead guitarist Grodius Maximus (Tommy Meehan) from RVA's most famous metal band GWAR!Mike has been with the band since 1988 making him the longest serving member. On stage he appears as a humanoid creature with a face resembling a bear-trap, usually portrayed wielding an enormous battle ax. Derks has been a featured vocalist on several GWAR songs as well as writing and producing a large number of GWAR's catalog of music.Tommy, guitarist from the bands Cancer Christ and Squid Pisser, joined GWAR early this year replacing Brent "Pustulus Maximus" Pergason who exited the band after 11 years. Grodius will look similar to Pustulus on stage as they are related in GWAR's mythical backstory.We talk early years, band history, VCU, Death Piggy, film, cat poop, theatrics, punk rock, killing politicians, the "Stoned Age Tour", costumes, GWAR Bar, GWAR-B-Q (it might come back!), X-Cops, Taylor Swift, and Lisa Marie Presley keeping her son on dry ice. Big Daddy also also wraps up his Richmond True Crime series and discusses the Briley Brothers' murder spree.DOCUMENTARY: Check out "This is GWAR" Documentary: https://www.amazon.com/This-GWAR-Weird-Al-Yankovic/dp/B0B5LTSWWFTOUR: GWAR is playing November 9th at 7PM at The National with Squid Pisser: https://www.thenationalva.com/events/detail/?event_id=594224Band of the week: GWAR (DUH!)Business of the week: GWAR Bar217 W Clay St, 4-10PM dinner, 10-whenever for late night menuTheir 10th anniversary is on NYE this year. The best drunk food in the world! The band makes appearances there often.We recommend their Chicken McDuckets, Demoned Eggs, White Trash Garbage Fries, and their Scumdogs. The have lots of vegan options too.Local Events:Oct 24th and 31st: Fever Halloween String Quartet @Bolling Haxall HouseOct 25-27th @Greater Richmond Convention Center, Roller Derby TournamentOct 26, 3-7PM Off The Rails Beer FestivalNov 9th, 7PM, GWAR at the NationalNov 15th: Pets On Parade

Happy SPOOOOKY season everyone! Kick back and let us 3 gremlins guide you into all things Halloweenie in Richmond. We discuss a recent organ donor scandal, Richmond true crime, The Richmond Vampire, Halloween events and an extra special reading of Poe's "The Raven" by Liz and Big Daddy.RVA Halloween Events:Fright Night Halloween Bar Crawl Oct 25th @5PM staring at 3 Monkey's Bar & GrillRichmond Ghosts Capital City Tour around Shockoe Bottom / Church HillHalloween Haunt @ Kings DominionAshland Berry Farm's Terror On The Farm in Ashland (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 7-10pm)Creepy Hollow Scream Park"Fancy Me Mad" event Oct 21st at Historic Saint John's Church 5:45Eerie Canal Halloween Cruises on Oct 25th to Oct 27th 5-9pm, Edgar Allen Poe nightmare themeRed Vein Haunted House (do the VIP experience)See GWAR in NovemberTommy's Halloween Car WashBusiness Of The Week:Honey Baked Bee - bakery with revolving menu at 2824 E Broad St. (the former Anthony's)Band Of The Week:The Embalmers - local surf rock band playing all the classics. Catch them at Reveler on Halloween night at 8PMShoutouts:Baltic Bagels in Forest HillNew Toast location near Arthur Ash BlvdThe Poe MuseumHollywood CemeteryEdgar Allen PoeChurch Hill

On today's episode we have Timmy Danger, co-CEO of RVA Pro Wrestling. Danger has been involved in pro wrestling for Almost 20 years as a wrestler, manager, announcer, and now booker and promoter. RVA Pro has been around for almost a year and has successfully sold out Hardywood Brewery each time. The last event sold out in 20 minutes! RVA Pro most recently packed out The Diamond where Danger threw out the first pitch. RVA Pro is quickly becoming one of the hottest shows in Richmond and Danger is proud to be one of the people at the helm. RVA Pro is also sponsored by Punks for Presents -a local Richmond charity that gives back to kids.Keep an eye out for their next event, because they sell out QUICK!We also discuss Justin Bieber, "raw-dogging it," band and business of the week and upcoming RVA events.Support RVA Pro Wrestling:https://www.instagram.com/rvaprowrestlinghttps://www.youtube.com/@RVAProWrestlingTimmy Danger:https://www.instagram.com/timmydanger/https://www.facebook.com/TimmyDangerPunks For Presents:https://www.instagram.com/punksforpresentsrvaBand of the week:Breaking The Chain Stevie Nicks Tribute - a complete show of costumes, storytelling and great music.Business of the week:Triple Crossing Brewery @Rocketts Landing (Get the pizza special and the Falcon Smash)Events:Friday, Sept 20th: 40 cent scoops at Gelati Celesti, noon - 10pmFriday, Sept 20th, Mashup & Cozy Condition @JJ's Grille 8pmSept 21st - 22nd: Iron Blossom Music Festival @Training Center on LeighSept 21st: Breaking The Chain Stevie Nicks Mac tribute @River City RollSept 21st: The East End Festival @Chimborazo ParkFriday, Nov 15th: Pets On Parade Gala by FETCH a Cure @ Main Street StationShoutouts:Die TodayRoger TylerKane (local rapper)Hardywood BreweryAmyMina the BritBar WestJames Earl Jones (RIP)Be sure to follow us @olala_RVA

Today we have Roger Tyler: an Actor and Director residing in Richmond, Virginia. He has accomplished many goals in this field from working with Ethan Hawke (The Good Lord Bird), starring in an episode of “For My Man”, Commercials, Short Films and many Voice Over spots. Roger continues to “Chase His Dream” and “ Catch His Goal” on the road to Hollywood.We also talk about Matthew Perry's controversial death involving ketamine, popular local distilleries/tasting rooms around the city, upcoming events you won't want to miss and of course our local band and business of the week.Support Roger Tyler:https://www.facebook.com/ActorRogerTylerhttps://www.instagram.com/ActorRogerTylerhttps://x.com/ActorRogerTylerhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm9084209/Business of the week:Redemption BBQ: Get the BBQ sandwich!Richmond's best and most authentic Virginia Style BBQ - whole hogs and vinegar based sauce. Focus is on the meat instead of the sauce. Pulled pork shoulder signature VA style BBQ dish.https://redemptionbbq.com/https://www.instagram.com/redemptionbbq/https://www.facebook.com/RedemptionBBQ/Band of the week:AUDIOVAULT: "Formed in 2014 AUDIOVAULT performs countless shows a year and usually books out months in advance. Gaining quick notoriety as the band that puts on an “Arena Rock Performance” wherever they go AUDIOVAULT was in high demand from the beginning. Venues like Uptown Alley, The Broadberry, The Beacon Theater, as well as private events have hired AUDIOVAULT to bring that exclusive one-of-a-kind experience to them."They're amazing - they play Pink Floyd, Def Leppard, ZZ Top and more and idk how they do it but they make their voices sound just like the original singers.https://www.instagram.com/audiovault_rva/https://www.facebook.com/Audiovaultrvahttps://artistecard.com/audiovaultShoutouts:Black LiquidArmagideon Time -https://www.instagram.com/armagideontimerva/Patrick Mamu - https://www.watchmamu.com/FETCH a CureMain Street StationRockbridge Beer & Wine FestivalFun HouseMegadethVirginia Credit Union LiveCirrus VodkaBelle Isle MoonshineReservoir DistilleryVirago DistilleryTrial & ErrorNext Episode: RVA Pro Wrestling!

On today's episode we have Renai from Fetch a Cure.FETCH a Cure is a 501 ©(3) non-profit organization focused on improving the quality of life for pets. Working with pet owners and the veterinary community, FETCH is furthering pet cancer awareness, education, and treatment. Their vision is simple: A community where no one is denied a choice for their pet's health due to lack of options, education or funding.Renai started volunteering for FETCH a Cure in 2017 and a foster for FETCH's Pixie's Pen Pals rescue program. In 2021 she began working for FETCH part time as the Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator and in 2022 after ten years as a teacher in the public school system, Renai joined FETCH a Cure full time as the Director of Development.We also talk about stalkers, interesting historic olympic facts, and more!Support FETCH a Cure:https://fetchacure.org/https://fetchacure.org/pen-pals/https://fetchacure.org/companions-in-crisis/https://www.instagram.com/fetchacure/https://www.facebook.com/fetchacurefan/Donate: https://support.fetchacure.org/campaign/annual-fund/c476361Fetch a cure events:Their Monthly Supper Club! Each month they host a giveback night at a restaurant around town. By just dining out and supporting local restaurants FETCH supporters have raised over $5,500 this year alone! You can check out the Supper Club webpage to see where we will be at each month. https://fetchacure.org/events-list/fetch-a-cures-supper-club/In September they will be unveiling a new mural at River City Roll! The unveiling is private but beginning September 9 folks can swing by Tommie's Patio at River City Roll to see the new mural painted by Mickael Broth. This will be their third mural collaboration with Mickael and River City Roll! This mural project has raised over $33,000 for our programs!The Steel Dog Open Golf Tournament, Friday September 20 at Magnolia Green Golf Club (just a few spots left!)Throughout the fall you'll also catch the FETCH team at various local events so keep an eye on social media as well!Business of the week:Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches - https://www.nightingaleicecream.com/Find them at Union Market in Church Hill.Band of the week:The Gravy Boat Band - https://www.instagram.com/gravy_boat_band/https://www.facebook.com/GravyBoatBandRVAJam, pop, funk, and rock!Shoutouts:The Dancing KiltJack Brown'sBrambly ParkMain Street StationSticky RiceO'ToolesCabo Fish TacoBingo BeerOak & AppleMOSAICTriple Crossing's

On today's episode we interview Emily Papkin: a yoga instructor from RVA's hottest new yoga studio Midtown Yoga. Their mission “is to meet you exactly where you are. Whether you are brand new to yoga or you've been practicing for years, their classes will challenge you both mentally and physically—and offer you tools to take yoga into your everyday human experience.”Emily has been practicing yoga since 2012 and shortly into her yoga journey found herself drawn to teaching the practice. She has been passionately doing so for 8 years now and says that yoga has led her through many life transitions from marriage, motherhood, and more.We also discuss Snoop Dogg's involvement in the Olympics this year, Matt's favorite ways to practice mindfulness, our business and band of the week, and more!Support Midtown Yoga:https://www.instagram.com/midtownyoga/https://www.facebook.com/MidtownYogaStudios/https://midtownyogastudios.com/richmondhttps://www.instagram.com/papkindoesyoga/Buy Your Table For Fetch a Cure Gala:https://cbo.io/bidapp/index.php?slug=petsonparadeBand Of The Week: Fly By Night Rush TributeBusiness Of The Week: Sam's New & Used TiresShoutouts:Lisa from Licious BoutiqueMichelle from Youthful Beginnings SS Electrical SolutionsJulio's BagelsNate's BagelsMaymont Brown's Island

Have you checked out TXTUR in Manchester yet? Make it your goal this summer to stop in to browse their custom, sustainable, locally made nordic pieces paired with beautiful fabric designs. Not in the market for furniture? No problem! Pop in for happy hour at their beautiful cocktail bar or have a Scandinavian meal at their built in restaurant Stock!Who is the man behind all this genius? That would be Greg Terrell, CEO of TXTUR/Stock and we had the pleasure of interviewing him on today's episode!We also talk about Katy Perry's latest music video, the best pizza places in the city, our band and business of the week.Support TXTUR RVA:https://txtur.com/pages/rva-showroomhttps://www.instagram.com/txturrva/https://www.facebook.com/txturrvaSupport Stock:https://txtur.com/pages/stock-rvahttps://www.instagram.com/stockrichmond/https://www.facebook.com/stockrichmondSupport TXTUR:https://txtur.com/https://www.instagram.com/txturliving/https://www.facebook.com/txturlivingBuy Your Table For Fetch a Cure Gala:https://cbo.io/bidapp/index.php?slug=petsonparadeBand Of The Week: Saved By The 90sBusiness Of The Week: Carytown MassageShoutouts:River City Wood Fire PizzaVirginia Historical SocietyVirginia Craft BeerAtlantic Union Bank After HoursRuby Scoops (congrats on winning best ice cream)Police Officer Mervin Mayo (congrats on getting on America's Got Talent)Manchester AllianceThe Underground Kitchen

On today's episode we have the pleasure of sitting down with Richmond native Jason Newcomb - guitarist and co-founder of RVA's Mashup & Cozy Condition and their newest 90s project Be Kind & Rewind. Hailing from Richmond Virginia, Mashup & Cozy Condition is an electrifying eight-piece ensemble that melds vintage funk, with modern production techniques. They are famous for “mashing” together songs in the same key. They also recently played at our best friend Cheryl's wedding.In this episode you'll hear about stories of partying with Guns N' Roses, addiction, entrepreneurship and much more. You'll also hear Big Daddy's tips of how to beat the Richmond heat as well as fun upcoming events in our hood. We also discuss the Richmond "gun hole" and RVA being dubbed the best #1 best "town."Support Mashup:https://www.instagram.com/mashupandcozyconditionhttps://mccfunk.com/homehttps://www.facebook.com/MashupCozyCondition/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVVB1TRF0a_zbiRt_BSwlghttps://open.spotify.com/artist/4Xgz0ZH1mIhD1E5wSjrj1V?si=iE3Pmh6sQYmmPWio2S_UCw&nd=1&dlsi=ac20397d0b804a56Be Kind & Rewind: https://bekindandrewind90s.com/https://www.facebook.com/p/Be-Kind-And-Rewind-Ultimate-90s-Experience-61554123807220/https://www.instagram.com/bekind_rewindband/?hl=enSoulshaker Studioshttps://www.facebook.com/p/Soulshaker-Studios-100064022466282/https://soulshakerstudio.com/Business of the Week: Midtown YogaTheir mission is to meet you exactly where you are. Whether you are brand new to yoga or you've been practicing for years, their classes will challenge you both mentally and physically—and offer you tools to take yoga into your everyday human experience. Hot Deal: $25 for 10 days of unlimited classeshttps://midtownyogastudios.com/richmondhttps://www.instagram.com/midtownyoga/https://www.facebook.com/MidtownYogaStudios/Fetch a Cure & Brambly Park Wine Label Raffle:https://support.fetchacure.org/campaign/brambly-park-wine-label-raffle/c589153

On today's episode, Liz and Big Daddy (Olivia is out of town for a family emergency-sending prayers!) tackle the hot topic: Taylor Swift fans created vibrations on the level of several small earthquakes at her recent shows in Edinburgh-now that's what we call rock ‘n roll!! We go onto discuss our favorite summer traditions from childhood as well as favorite Richmond summertime traditions overall. Big Daddy drops some knowledge about the best weekend road trip spots for some summer fun in the sun. We also discuss some upcoming summer events around town, as well as places to check out fireworks on the 4th!Fireworks:-07-04-07/06 Star spangled nights at Kings Dominion-07/04 The Diamond after the Flying Squirrels game-07/04 Chesterfield Fairgrounds-gates open at 5p.m.-07/04 Red, White, and Lights at Crump Park(laser show, no actual fireworks FYI) fun starts at 4 p.m.Band of the Week: Be Kind and RewindBekindandrewind90s.comInstagram: bekind_rewindbandBusiness of the Week: TXTUR/Stocktxtur.com and txtur.com/pages/stock-rvaInstagram: txturrva and stockrichmondShout outs:Agecroft Hall and Gardens25th Anniversary Season of the Shakespeare FestivalStone Soul Music and Food FestivalMetzger Bar and ButcheryThe Flying SquirrelsRichmond Parks and Recreation Music at MaymontThe Mashup and Cozy Confition

On today's episode we have Michael Sparks, a luminary in the design, branding, and fashion spheres. He brings over 3 decades of experience to his role at the Underground Kitchen. Michael has had many roles within the fashion and design spheres from assistant buyer at Lugene optical in NYC, to creative Artistic Eye-a purveyor of luxury products, to consulting all over the globe, as well as establishing Michael Sparks Design, and then using all of those skills to created the Underground Kitchen in 2012, Michael has cemented his legacy as a visionary entrepreneur at the intersection of design and gastronomy. That's quite the résumé!We also discuss the controversy surrounding P. Diddy and his violent behavior and of course Big Daddy also drops it on us about the best coffee in RVA!Support Michael and The Underground Kitchen:Instagram.com/theugkfacebook.com/ugkrvatheundergroundkitchen.orgfacebook.com/ugkcommunityfirstInstagram.com/ugkcommunityfirstVOLUNTEER: ugkcommunityfirst.orgBand of the week:What's Our Age Again?https://www.facebook.com/whatsourageagainband/https://www.instagram.com/rvawhatsourageagain/They play favorite 90s and 2000s pop punk and emo hits from Blink-182, to Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, to Fall Out Boy, the Avril Lavigne, to Jimmy Eat World, to so many more. Everyone is dancing and they draw a huge crowd.They'll be playing again on June 29th at River City Roll at 9PM - 12:30 AM.They'll also be playing Saturday Sept 7th at the Broadberry at 8.Restaurants of the week:River City Wood FireOur recommendation: The Angry Zinski - 10" (Spicy Pepperoni) Pizza - Olive oil, sea salt, crushed tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, parmesan, mozzarella, cup-and-char pepperoni, and a drizzle of our house-made "El Machete" hot honey.https://www.instagram.com/rvawoodfiredpizza/Peter Chang'sOur recommendation: Kung Pao Chicken Buns, Pork With Spicy Garlic Sauce, any of their fried rice disheshttps://www.instagram.com/chefpeterchang/Shoutouts:River City RollThe BroadberryElva Salon and Nail Spa

On today's episode we have Kevin Sheffield - a local bartending celebrity who recently opened Smoke & Barrel in the former space of the Dugout, Step Down Raw Bar, The White Dog, and its longest tenant, Lady N'awlins. The space has been around since the 70s. Kevin is most well known for his drink slinging skills at New York Deli. He's been in the bartending business for 10 years now at places like ChaChas, FW Sullivans and Lady N'awlins. He won bartender of the year for RVA 6 years in a row (2016-2021) and he's in the hall of fame for Style Weekly. He loves Richmond, going to VCU basketball games and Flying Squirrels baseball games. We also discuss Pharrell Williams filming his movie in RVA, Opossums, restaurants and band of the week, and more!Support Smoke & Barrel:InstagramFacebookReservationsBand of the week:Almost Gone - cool 90s/pop/punk cover band that does Blink-182, Nickleback, Nirvana, and bunch more great covers.InstagramAlmost Gone On SpotifyRestaurants of the week:Smoke & Barrel: 2329 W. Main StreetIt has a high end speakeasy vibe with an incredible happy hour and food menu. You can get high end old fashioneds, martinis, negronis, palomas, margaritas and more for only $7! We've never seen a happy hour price that good. They have an amazing happy hour food menu and a robust delicious dinner menu as well. Try the steak egg rolls and the empanadas - big portions for a great price. They also have duck and steak on the menu. Nothing is over $30.Tito's taqueria & Bar: 733 W Cary Street@titostaqueriarvaDrinks: Texicana marg or spicy mango margaritaApps: The Sampler - guac, cheese dip, salsa trio and flaming hot crazy corn rolled in hot CheetosEntree: Birria tacos with beef or hot Cheetos burritoShoutouts:NY DeliHandthrown Pottery StudioThe ParkMugshot

Craving something new this spring? How about a casual picnic filled with delicious and delectable bites – all for a heartwarming cause? Save the date for Saturday, May 18, from 6pm - 9pm, as the Positive Vibe Foundation unveils its second annual signature culinary extravaganza: Positively Delicious.You're cordially invited to join us at the Faison Center's Guzman Community Center for an evening steeped in community spirit and elevated by culinary mastery. The list of wonderful restaurants representing Richmond and beyond has been handpicked by the visionary restaurateur and community advocate, Jason Alley, in collaboration with Positive Vibe's Executive Director Michele Jones, both esteemed figures from Richmond's beloved culinary scene at Comfort and Pasture.Michele Jones is a former restauranteur and owner of Comfort, Pasture, and Bingo Beer. Her work in the nonprofit industry has previously been through her philanthropic efforts during her years dominating the Richmond restaurant scene. As recently profiled in Richmond magazine, Michele established an annual tradition of giving back to her community by collecting coats and suitcases for kids in foster care. She was named “World News Tonight with Diane Sawyer” Person of the Week for her efforts. In 2018, Comfort partnered with Feed More to donate 100% of its proceeds to fight food insecurity.​While her history in the restaurant world might not seem to be the most logical choice to helm a nonprofit, she brings decades of experience in running large, complex, and successful public-facing organizations. Her enthusiasm and energy, along with potential new community partners, is destined to uplift Positive Vibe's students and expand their opportunities for finding purpose, passion and possibilities.Positive Vibe Foundation is wholeheartedly dedicated to providing transformative training and coaching talent help people with disabilities lead fulfilling and independent lives.

On today's episode we have the pleasure of sitting down with Charlie (lead vocals) and Alex (bass) from Flight Club (NOT Fight Club); a four piece rock band hailing from our own RVA! We saw them play at River Rock last year after they were handing out free stickers to the crowd and we were blown away by their music. They played an amazing pop-punk cover of Unwritten by Natasha Bendingfield and we were instantly hooked! We also saw them more recently at the Broadberry when they opened for 408 and We The Kings. They sound right on par with those two big bands. Today you'll learn all about the band. Big Daddy will also drop it on us with some funny news about this year's Coachella and we'll discuss the pay gap between men and women's basketball. ENJOY!Support Flight Club:InstagramFacebookOther Links & Tour DatesBand Of The Week: FLIGHT CLUB OF COURSE!Big Daddy Topic: The disaster called Coachella (WOOHOO)Restaurants Of The week:En Su BocaOpen from 11am-2am every day. Happy hour from 3-6 mon-friday where house margs are 7.50, rails are 5.5, $1 off beer and wine. Happiest of all hours monday - thursday 5-6 where you can take an additional dollar off of all of those.Drink: house margApp: Boca trio - whopping pile of chips with different salsas, guac and quesoEntree: One of their burrito bowls. They're all insanely delicious so it doesn't matter which one you pickThe Answer / MekongDrink: Orange creamsicle beerApp: Salt and pepper calamari, shrimp chipsEntree: Bon Mi (hangover cure)Dessert: Nightingale ice cream sandwichEvent of the week: Positively Delicious by Positive Vibes Foundation, May 18th. Raises money for disabled RVA locals to find employment and other opportunities. Unlimited gourmet food and drinks made by RVA chefs.Shoutouts:River RockThe Broadberry408We The KingsThe NationalThe Canal ClubBrown's IslandRichmond Music HallThe CamelSticky RiceBlack LodgeWarped TourRichmond SpidersErin & The WildfireMama J'sJew FroOur Sponsor:Maya's Belly Dancing

On today's episode, we have Katherine - owner of The Verdant Lady; a one of a kind cocktail bar located in RVA's West End. The Lady offers up refreshingly unique cocktails, an enchanting and funky indoor space with an atmosphere that acts as a place for friends and wanderers to share a drink together as equals. With their carefully curated cocktail menu and food served up from Les Crepes nextdoor, you're sure to be delighted the moment you walk in.We also talk about the solar eclipse and if the end of the world is upon us.Support The Verdant Lady & Les Crepeshttps://www.theverdantlady.com/The Verdant Lady InstagramFacebookhttps://www.lescrepesrva.com/Les Crepes InstagramRestaurants of the week:The Verdant Lady & Les Crepes - we recommend the Love Island cocktail (Rose infused Vodka, Lillet Rosé, Lychee, Lemon, Sparkling Coconut Water). For an app get the fried goat cheese balls. For an entre get the Curry Lamb Crepe.Uliveto - https://www.gersirestaurant.com/ulivetoPoloma or Agua De Valencia for a brunch cocktail. For an app: anchovies and citrus. Entre: eggs Sicilana.Band of the week:Gone Country - https://gonecountryrva.com/2024-schedule“Where the line-dancing, Honky Tonk sound of Brooks & Dunn meets the smooth, timeless melodies of Alan Jackson.”Make sure to get your tickets for Wear RVA's 5th annual charity fashion show. All proceeds go towards scholarships for local RVA high school girls.Our Sponsor: Maya's Belly Dancing

Our friend Rick Plautz, owner and operator of the Bell Garden, is back on the pod today! If you didn't catch his last episode, the Bell Garden is a wellness business and sound bath facilitator in RVA combining quartz crystal bowls, curated music, and vocal toning to create a profoundly relaxing meditative experience.Today Rick comes to discuss an exciting new festival in RVA: Rest Fest on May 4th. The festival is a celebration of wellness, bringing Richmonders together for group classes, speakers, music, food and connection. We also talk about the MANDALA EFFECT with Big Daddy! ✨Tickets to Rest Fest:https://www.rvarestfest.com/Support The Bell Garden:TheBell.Garden@thebell.gardenTiktokRestaurants of the week:The Boathouse @ Rocketts LandingCocktail: dirty martiniApp: Rockefeller oystersEntree: crab cakes with asparagus and mashed potatoes. The crab cakes have a mustard glaze on top which is so delicious!HobnobCocktail: The Winter SolsticeEntree: Fried green tomato BLT or Strawberry Goat cheese salad with grilled chickenCroaker's Spot -Southern soul foodBand of the week:Cheapshot: a five piece rock band that plays 90s/2000s hits with their own hard rock flair on everything they play.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089847070248&mibextid=LQQJ4dhttps://www.instagram.com/cheapshotva/?hl=enOur Sponsor:Maya's Bellydancing

Welcome to O Lala! (In The Dungeon). We are two blondes (with our big daddy) who discuss all things RVA! We interview the most interesting people in the city and discuss current events and other happenings around Richmond. Tune in every other Monday for a new episode!

On today's episode we interview Carter Snipes, co-owner of the popular Hofheimer building. We also discuss popular restaurant trends around RVA, more news about the infamous Stanley Cup, our restaurants and band of the week, and more!About our guest: Carter Snipes is an entrepreneur and a veteran real estate developer. As the owner of Snipes Properties, he has aided in the redevelopment of properties across Richmond, including of course the historic Hofheimer building, and Brambly Park Winery, a 2 acre park-like urban winery, restaurant, and music venue in the back of Scott's Addition. As an activist board member of the Scott's Addition Neighborhood Association, Carter has also been instrumental in securing city grants for Scott's Addition greenspace, landscaping, and infrastructure. Snipes is a passionate, visionary entrepreneur set on elevating the neighborhood's exposure on a national level.Support Carter Snipes:https://www.hofheimerbuilding.com/https://www.facebook.com/hofheimerbuilding/https://www.instagram.com/hofheimer_buildinghttps://www.harrysrva.com/https://www.instagram.com/harrysrva/https://www.bramblypark.com/https://www.instagram.com/bramblypark/https://www.facebook.com/bramblyparkhttps://www.tiktok.com/@bramblyparkOur sponsor:Maya's Belly Dancing

Today we are joined by Erin, the soulful and extremely talented vocalist from RVA's Erin & The Wildfire. The band started out as four college friends in Charlottesville, VA making music just for the fun of it. Today they have grown into a flourishing decade long musical experience with an idie-pop flair with influences from Emily King, D'Angelo, YEBBA, Vulfpeck, and Donny Hathaway. The band also includes Ryan Lipps on guitar, Nick Quillen on drums, Matt Woods on bass and Stephen Roach on keys.Erin & The Wildfire create their own music with deeply personal lyrics that mainly focus on Erin's journey with struggles with body acceptance and self-love but also touch on climate change, fighting the patriarchy and more. The band strives to make their shows a safe space for all ages and kinds of people.Their second full-length album, Touchy Feely was released April 1, 2022 and recorded in the Summer of 2021, after nearly a year and a half of virtual songwriting and collaboration during the global pandemic. The new release, named one of Style Weekly's most-anticipated local albums of 2022, was produced by acclaimed songwriter and producer Matthew E. White (Natalie Prass). The meticulous production, impeccable songwriting, and sensual vocals are present as ever on an album that polishes the signature style introduced by their popular single “Shape” in 2020.E&TW have also made appearances at some of the largest festivals on the East Coast including Suwannee Rising, LOCKN', FloydFest, CMJ, RoosterWalk, and more.Support Erin & The Wildfire:https://www.erinandthewildfire.com/https://www.instagram.com/erinandthewildfire/https://www.facebook.com/ErinandtheWildfire/https://twitter.com/ErinAndWildfirehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA8j8JBYzPOKZrrB7xwweRQhttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/erin-the-wildfire/727140636https://soundcloud.com/erinandthewildfirehttps://www.tiktok.com/@erinandthewildfirehttps://open.spotify.com/artist/03NHhY1mdWC3Hf9uJEnomj?si=W34dC8EkR0uy3YYgGx2z3QOur sponsor:Maya's Belly Dancing

On today's episode, we interview Funmi Mohlie, tea sommelier and connoisseur, hailing from London, UK, who is bringing Afternoon Tea to RVA. She worked in the luxury industry for over 20 years, including Harrods, where she got to experience exquisite afternoon teas.The whole concept started after Funmi, her husband and kids moved to Virginia in June of 2020. As they were getting settled and as a way to entertain people, Funmi started hosting British afternoon teas for her friends in their home called “Mummy And Me Teas”. More and more requests kept coming for larger events. Encouraged by her friends, she decided to start a quintessential British afternoon tea company with a twist: bringing the experience to your home or location of choice. Thus Funmi's Royal Tea was born.With the Deluxe experience, Funmi's catering service includes everything from the place setting to the delicious items you'll enjoy. She brings all of the necessary items to the location of your choice, so all you have to do is provide her with the table, the chairs and the guests.Funmi's menu has a variety of items to choose from, such as sandwiches, pastries and cakes, as well as a selection of loose-leaf teas. Scones, strawberry jam and clotted cream will always be available on the menu as this is a staple to the British afternoon tea experience.Big Daddy drops it on us with some facts about tea totaling and the origins of dry January.Support Funmi and do a British Tea Experience:@caeruleum_llcwww.caeruleumllc.comhttps://www.facebook.com/caeruleumllcRestaurants of the week:Osaka Sushi- 5023 Huguenot RdWe recommend their Mt Fuji Shrimp appetizer and the Incredible Roll which is a spicy tuna roll with tempura crunch, filet mignon, red cavier and spicy mayo. Wash it down with their Manhattan cocktail.Pinky's -3015 Norfolk st. Scott's additionWe recommend their brunch-both of their starters are amazing-the zeppole is like a little fried donut or pastry with powdered sugar and choice of topping or the Giardino board with fruit, cheese, crostini and fixingsFor the main course we recommend the croque madame with prosciutto di parma, iberico ham, asiago-manchego cream, pancetta, sunny up eggs on grilled crostini with fresh fruit and a side of brunch potatoes, with the Le bolle their twist on an aperol spritz-so refreshing!Band of the week:Mashup & Cozy ConditionHailing from Richmond Virginia, Mashup is an electrifying eight-piece ensemble that melds vintage funk, with with modern production techniques. They take popular songs, put their own spin on it and “mash it up” with another song in the same key.Their next gig is on January 26th at 8 at JJ's Bar and Grille on Staples Mill Road. They're also playing at the Midlothian Great American Ranch on February 3rd at 9PM.Our sponsor:Maya's Belly DancingOther shoutouts:Short Pump Pour HouseAre You Randy, Baby?Ember Music HallU of R Spiders BasketballToastJJ's Bar and GrillSouthern Railway TaphouseGreat American RanchKindred Spirit

Today on our last episode of the year, we have Amanda Cook, a seasoned local makeup artist who has graced the beauty industry with her talent since 2013. She has worked with renowned brands such as Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Clinique, and Laura Mercier. Amanda's artistic journey began in her youth, where a love for art and creativity transformed into a passion for makeup, inspired by the femininity she observed in her family. Infusing heart into her craft, Amanda ensures every client feels regal under her care. Beyond beautifying, she's a fervent educator, sharing insights on skincare, artistry techniques, and the art of selecting the perfect tools. Known for her unmatched professionalism, Amanda resides in her hometown of Richmond, Virginia, with her fiancée Ricky and her feline companion, Gomez. Amanda previously worked for Walt Disney world as a character performer, went to VCU, and has been with Ricky 11 years in May!Matt also quizzes us on his previous "Drop It On Us Big Daddy" segments. Who will win the prize?!?!HAPPY HOlDAYS AND MERRY CHRISTMAS from us to you! We love you and will see ya in January for more amazing interviews!

Today's guest is Lisa Lish, the owner of RVA's Licious Boutique where you can be a hit in a Licious fit! She is also a recovering addict who is 12 years sober and a traveling feature entertainer. She loves dancing, traveling, her family, her dogs, but most importantly SEXY fun fashion. She always dreamt of opening up her own boutique with super stylish clothes and that dream came true in the past year when she opened up her shop. The boutique quickly was voted RVA's best women's clothing store. The store also offers lashes, permanent jewelry, private shopping experiences, and more.

Today we have Rick Plautz, owner and operator of the Bell Garden. The Bell Garden is a wellness business and sound bath facilitator in RVA combining quartz crystal bowls, curated music, and vocal toning to create a profoundly relaxing meditative experience.Rick started holding sound baths in December of 2021 at Triangle Rock Club - and still does once a month. But he now holds them all over town in yoga studios, reiki centers, and privately in clients' homes.In 2018 while he was meditating to music he began humming - and promptly fell asleep. When he woke up he had an image in his head of sitting on a large concert stage, ringing a crystal bowl and singing a note in front of a crowd of hundreds. This image has led him to where he is today.We also discuss local RVA celebrities, our favorite restaurants of the week, and more!Support Rick:TheBell.Garden@thebell.gardenTiktokOther Reiki Healers in RVA:Shekina - holds ecstatic dancesYogi J Miles - yogaJulian J. Desta - sound healerShanna Latia - yogi, does paddle board yoga on the riverOur Sponsor:Maya's Bellydancing

In today's spoOoky episode, we interview Jon, founder of RVA paranormal. Alongside his wife, Jon investigates poltergeist activity here in Richmond. Together they have witnessed apparitions, heard voices, felt the presence of those long passed, communicated with ghostly soldiers on local battlefields, and spent the night in some of the most notoriously haunted locations on the east coast.Even after all of these years in their investigations, Jon feels that they are nowhere close to knowing the questions of how and why. How do people see and hear these events and why are some spirits so eager to share their story?Also tune in to learn about the Richmond Vampire who haunts Hollywood Cemetery!Support RVA Paranormal Community:RVA ParanormalHaunts of RichmondHaunted Nights Paranormal EventsTranscend ParanormalHenricusHanover TavernRVA Haunted Attractions:Saint AlbansRed VeinTerror On The FarmHowl-O-ScreamHalloween HauntCreepy Hollow Scream ParkFallout Monster BallRestaurants Of The Week:Little NickelWe recommend the Flaming Pu-Pu Platter, The Punch Bowl to share with your friends (or not), Calamari, the Hawaiian Pork Bowl, and Coconut Cream Pie.Blue AtlasThey change the menu every two months. Try the Crispy Cauliflower, steak frites, Time Up cocktail and Snake Bite Gimlet cocktail.Our Sponsors:Coastal Spritz

This week Liz and Liv reunite after two weeks of spending time on opposite ends of the world. Liv talks about being her mother's nurse for a few weeks after her hip replacement, experiencing the loss of her wonderful grandpa and well as some crazy signs from him after his death. Liz and Matt discuss their time spent at Oktoberfest in Munich as well as their adventures in Prague.Other fun segments of this week's episode include fun local fall events coming up, some interesting facts about Absinthe that Matt learned while indulging in Prague as well as hilariously surprising RVA trivia. Tune in to learn more about our beautiful city.Our Sponsors:Coastal Spritz

Today we interview somebody we know you have seen if you've been to MPM Tiki Bar on a Friday night. We are joined by Shawn Speake – one half of an infamous duo known for hosting the best and dare I say “littest” Karaoke show at MPM Tiki Bar and The Beach House on Broad. Olivia met Shawn on a random Monday night when she got happy hour drinks with a friend. She didn't expect to stay out after midnight on a work-night, but she did because of Shawn's energy. Shawn is particularly amazing with his karaoke hype man skills, rapping ability, and dance moves. His fashion is also unbeatable.Shawn Speake is a one-man rap cover band and performing artist. You might know him as Shawn Michael – the name he went by for years as an on-air talent at Power92FM in RVA. Shawn has been a radio DJ and an actor on several shows on Amazon, Netflix, and even some Christmas movies that you can find at Walmart.During COVID, SPEAK produced 137 music tracks. He recently enrolled at the reverse engineering program on mastering.com with the pursuit to become a music engineer and self producing artist.Speak and his friend DJ Reflex recently opened for Nelly at the Meadow Event Park in Doswell in August. Tune in to hear crazy Shawn ~speake~ (no pun intended) more about his music, his acting career, and more. You'll even hear him spit a few bars at the end of the episode! He will definitely make you laugh and bring a smile to your face.We also discuss the history of Octoberfest and places that you can celebrate in Richmond.Support SPEAKE:@shawn_speakeShawn's FacebookShawn's YouTubeOur Sponsors:Coastal Spritz

In this episode we interview Chris Nalley, a 43 year old warehouse manager in Richmond who was born with Cystic Fibrosis. He didn't receive that diagnosis until he was 9 years old and has been in and out of the hospital most of his life. When he was 25 he got pneumonia that was so severe he had to be put into a drug induced coma for 6 months from January to June. He missed his birthday, the Super Bowl, the Final Four, etc. His lungs were so damaged that he had to be put on 24/7 oxygen and was listed to have his first double lung transplant which he had in July of 2006. His life completely changed after that.He ran a 5k 5 months after his transplant, a marathon some years after that and lived a normal life for a long stretch of time. Unfortunately in 2010 his first transplanted lungs began to reject. He was re-listed for another double lung transplant in 2012 and received that in 2013. Since then, Chris has traveled the world, gotten married and divorced all while speaking to whoever he could about the gift of organ donation and how it has changed his life. He has met both of the mothers of his lung donors who are both great and supportive people in his life.Tune in to hear the details about his transplants, his donors, his relationship with both of his donor's moms, his athletic achievements, his favorite RVA dive bars, and more! ✨

Welcome to ~SEASON 2~ of O Lala (In the Dungeon)! We've recently had a few changes to the pod and thought it was best to declare that we are in a new season of our show. Lee will sadly not be co-hosting the pod with us anymore. We are so grateful for all of the hard work, time, and money he spent on making the show great. We have moved our dungeon studio to Liz's house and her husband Matt (aka Big Daddy Shumate) will now be our new dungeon master. We also now have a dungeon dog joining us: the one, the only, Boudreaux!

Today's interviewee is RVA author and paranormal investigator Whitney Zahar. By day, she is a busy historic sites coordinator at a local museum in Virginia. By night, she releases her stories and words upon the world. Her first novella, The Safe Room, came out in June 2021, and she has several other projects in the works.Whe she's not writing, Whitney loves hanging with her husband and son and family and friends, reading, hiking, taking photographs, and coloring. She is also the co-host and senior producer of the Paraunity Podcast. She's a world traveler, having lived in South Korea, Taiwan, and Ecuador. It's been quite a life, but Whitney wouldn't have it any other way.Join us to learn about her work, her amazing life story, and some cool historic facts surrounding our area in RVA. Support & follow Whitney:FacebookInstagramWhitney's books: The Safe RoomAutumn TalesWomen of the WoodsNovaOther Links to cool stuff we talked about:Menokin: https://www.menokin.org/ The Valentine Museum: https://thevalentine.org/ The Paraunity Podcast: https://paraunitypodcast.wixsite.com/paraunity Goblins & Growlers: https://goblinsandgrowlers.com/Saint Albans Sanatorium in Radford, Virginia: https://www.stalbansvirginia.com/Red Vein: https://redveinhaunt.com/

Today's guest is an Instagram sensation with over 107K followers. Liz Thomson (aka @iheartveggies) is an RVA vegetarian food blogger who creates tasty/healthy recipes for busy people. She is also a cookbook author, a certified health coach and a foster mom.

On this week's episode of O Lala! (In The Dungeon), Lee and the girls interview co founders Amber and Taylor from Richmond's charity fashion show Wear RVA!Wear RVA is an annual full-production fashion show that empowers local high school girls of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. The event showcases the latest trends from RVA boutiques and designers and raises money for local scholarships. They are 100% sponsorship funded and they partner with local businesses in RVA to bring the production to life.Today you'll get the inside scoop about what it's like hosting a big event such as this, Amber and Taylor's backgrounds, and some never before heard news about their latest creative endeavor! Everyone also tries some Coastal Spritz - O Lala's first official sponsor!

Today's episode is a little different. Liz is off traveling the world in England, Morocco, and Spain and Liv is sick at home. Sadly, today Lee is a lonely dungeon master without his ladies but never fear! He bought a fancy podcast machine that allows him to phone-a-friend. Liv joins Lee today via cellular device for another thrilling episode of O Lala! (In The Dungeon). Today's guests are your very own hostesses with the mostesses. They reveal their deepest secrets and allow you all to get to know them on a more personal level. You don't want to miss it!Shout Outs:All the dads! Happy Father's Day!Red Vein Army Horror ClubMellow MushroomMaymont Summer Concert SeriesSkydogThree Sheets To The WindLatin Quarter Food TruckGlen Allen Service CenterJJs Bar & GrilleCaddy'sSparrow's PizzaBow Tie CinemasWearRVAFollow Us:InstagramFacebookYoutubeLee Dungeon StudiosMake sure to write us a review on Apple/Spotify!

Today's guest is a member of RVA's goth scene. She was a late bloomer, being introduced to the subculture when she was 28 by her ex-husband on Goth Night at Godfrey's in 2001. She was hooked from that day on. Since then, she has met so many amazing and interesting people and attended numerous goth events in the area.She also suffered many years in an abusive relationship and after emerging from that experience she was fully embraced by RVA's goth community. The support she received is part of why she has been able to move forward and reestablish her life.Today we will learn about the goth community in RVA and what it all means, with of course a few laughs along the way. We hope you enjoy this episode!Follow Karin:FacebookInstagramSupport the RVA Goth Community:RVA Goth/Industrial CommunityCentral VA Goth CommunityFalloutWax MoonRest In PiecesRiver City WitchesMagdalenasSinisteriaShoutouts:Godfrey'sRVA Greek FestivalBarsolitaProtojeDemon Copper Head book by Barbara KingsolverSparrows PizzaBar WestHammer and Ale's FestivalConejoStrangeways Brewing

Today's guest is one of RVA's most known burlesque dancers: Scarlet Starlet. The “twirling temptress” always aims to entertain. Whether she's twirling tassels, hoops, baton, or fire, the audience is sure to be teased and pleased. Scarlet enjoys performing a vast array of acts from silly to sexy to powerful. She has been seen at festivals across the country and has won a range of awards including Best Act, Most Classic, Most Wicked, and Best Variety Act. She is a burlesque and hoop instructor at RVA Swing, the producer of Burlesque Right Meow, and co-creator of the RVA Burlesque Festival.In this interview you'll get a first hand look into the burlesque scene in RVA and learn some surprising obstacles that burlesque dancers have to overcome to perform at venues, interesting history of the art of the strip tease, wardrobe malfunctions, Scarlet's background, and much more. You can see a "teaser video"

Today's guest is Jay Brown: owner, operator, band leader, lead vocalist, tenor saxist, washboard-ist, and tenor banjoist of the swingin' RVA vintage jazz band Grace Street Seven! You might have seen him and his bandmates perform at The Verdant Lady or perhaps at a local wedding or two. You also might have seen him perform in the other band he manages: Triple Crossing Jazz Project.The best part about both of these bands, in our opinion, is that they truly cultivate an experience through their music, fashion, and theatrics that puts you back in time and truly makes you feel like you're in the 1920s. They go all out on their theme!Jay goes into detail about how he fell in love with Jazz in the 3rd grade (The Pink Panther theme song), how he found himself in Richmond, his passion for World War II history, dance styles of the 1920/30s and much more. He talks about the history of Jazz in RVA specifically on Grace Street in the 1920s. He also talks about how his band survived the "roaring 2020" when the pandemic hit by playing concerts in his front yard for his neighbors.Other topics include instrument malfunctions, poor fashion choices, the best Jazz singers of all time, Frankenstein, gout, and hippie hair. You also get an exclusive listen to the GS7 performing the song "And Furthermore." You don't want to miss it!Catch GS7 Live:June 5th - Verdant LadyJuly 8th - VA Beach Swing Dance EventJuly 15th - Glen Echo Park "The Bumper Car Pavilion"July 20th - Lewis GinterJuly 21st - Hatch LocalTBA: Gatsby PicnicTBA: Hanger DanceShoutouts:Lewis Ginter Botanical GardenVirginia This MorningThe BoxmastersArt Deco Society of VAVMFA Jazz CafeIronclad CoffeeMilitary Aviation MuseumAirman's Preservation SocietyThe Tobacco CompanyHalcyon VintageMike's Jazz CafeFred Astaire Dance StudiosBook BindersSidecarRoma

Welcome to our Edgar Allan Poe special! Today's guest Catherine Baab-Muguira, is a writer and journalist who's contributed to the Wall Street Journal, Slate, CNBC, NBC News, The Cut, Shondaland and many others. Catherine is also a frequent podcast and radio guest with appearances on NPR, Ryan Holiday's Daily Stoic podcast, Lifehacker's Upgrade, Janet Varney's AV Club, and countless comedy podcasts. She also happens to be a close friend of Liz's and lives right here in RVA.Her first book, Poe for Your Problems: Uncommon Advice from History's Least Likely Self-Help Guru, was published by Hachette in 2021. In 2022, it became a finalist for the Library of Virginia's People's Choice Award, and it won the International Poe Festival's Saturday “Visiter” Award.During this episode you'll get to know all about Cat and how a strong bout of depression in her life sparked a love affair between her and Poe's literature. You'll also get to hear some funny behind the scenes facts about her book and her guesses of Lee's first name.Buy Cat's book Poe For Your Problems here:AmazonAudibleJoin Cat's email list "Darkly inspired self-help for writers and other creators"Shout outs:The Poe MuseumUnhappy HourSprezzaHardywood West CreekSB's Love ShackBrambly ParkCoco and HazelSidecarWild Ginger

Have you ever been to a First Friday event in Richmond? If so, you've probably seen a group of artists hula hooping with fire as well as other flow props to some really awesome DJs. That group is from Party Liberation Foundation (or PLF): a local burner group in our city. What is a burner group you ask? In this episode you will find out with the help of today's guest: Dj GON!

Welcome back! Olivia and Liz had an absolute BLAST at the Church Hill Irish Festival two weeks ago. They walked from Liz's house, sipped on some drizzanks, watched bag pipers, Irish step dancers, several great bands such as the Rolling Stone's cover band, Mother's Little Helpers, tried copious amounts of soda bread, etcetera etcetera. Liz took a trip to Asheville, NC and Olivia took two trips to RVA's Jungle Room for some house music. Lee clogged his arteries with a greasy burger from Pop's Dogs & Ma's Burgers.

The girls have sunshine on their mind... and that could be because of their special guest on this week's episode: Nate Oyler!

Saint Patrick's Day came and went and the girls discuss their past week's shenanigans. Liz had a blast at Rosie Connolly's with her friend from Italy. Olivia had an awful time at Shamrock the Block and plays some funny audio she recorded during the event.The real attraction in this episode however, is a recognizable character from the Short Pump Pour House's dance floor. Have you ever spotted a chiseled older man complete with a cowboy hat, a suit vest with no shirt underneath, and stick on flip flops provocatively dancing his ass off? Well then you've probably spotted Barefoot Tom, this week's guest!Being a veteran, fitness/wellness guru, multiple time fatal car crash survivor, man of God, and fun grandpa, Tom has lived a full and eventful life. He has overcome addiction, lost a son, and saved multiple people's lives. This interview will surely touch your heart and might even make you shed a tear or two hearing Tom's tales about his life.Tom and the podmate's also discuss some Short Pump history and how the town got its name. Super interesting. Lee not only gives it to the girls and Tom but to a fan who wrote in telling him that she only listens to hear his sexy voice. Tune in to hear his erotic story bit. O lala!