What's Up Dunwoody

Podcast 288 – Smart Branding and Apartment Density Transformed Chamblee Over the Last Decade – Van Pappas   Chamblee has rebranded, reimagined, and revitalized itself. Van Pappas shares how smart city planning and a bold branding push turned an industrial corridor into one of North DeKalb's hottest areas. The key? Apartment density, a clear identity, and big community pride. Van was there from the start, on the branding committee that helped bring the iconic red Chamblee sign to Peachtree Boulevard. He explains how signage isn't just decoration, it is declaration.   Van also dives into starting his Chamblee Area Restaurant Review Facebook Group during Covid, and growing it nearly as large as my Dunwoody version. What began as a way to support struggling restaurants became a digital town square, where locals post reviews and swap recommendations.   The Chamblee Rail Trail is more than a sidewalk. Van breaks down how the trail is expanding to connect key parts of the city and tie into a larger regional network. With plans to link Chamblee to Doraville's Assembly development, Brookhaven's greenways, and eventually the BeltLine, the trail is redefining how locals experience the city, without ever getting in a car.   Learn more about Van: oxygenfinancial.com/van-pappas   https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-288-smart-branding-and-apartment-density-transformed-chamblee-over-the-last-decade-van-pappas     What's Up Dunwoody Links:  

Podcast 287 – Steel Gateway Signs and Matt's Sold-Out Trolley Tour – Mark Galvin with Discover Dunwoody Matt's birthday trolley tour has already sold out! If you want to Rediscover Dunwoody, you'll have to hop on next month's ride. Mark Galvin from Discover Dunwoody joins Matt to talk about everything popping up around town—starting with those new steel gateway signs. He breaks down who paid for them, why they matter, and what they mean for the city's future. The whole episode is really about what's new. Did you know High Street will eventually be even larger than Avalon? It's gearing up to welcome Rosetta Bakery, Hampton Social, CRÚ Food & Wine Bar, Varuni Napoli, and Alo Yoga. Over at Campus 244, CT Cantina & Taqueria is drawing crowds with its chef-driven menu and hidden gem, Tierra Coffee. Stäge Kitchen & Bar is coming soon with upscale seafood, steak, and sushi. And Ashford Place is getting a big refresh with Stone Age Korean Steakhouse and Desi District moving in. If you live in Dunwoody—or just love watching it grow—this episode is packed with what's next.   whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-287-steel-gateway-signs-and-matts-sold-out-trolley-tour-mark-galvin-with-discover-dunwoody/   What's Up Dunwoody Links:  

Podcast 286 – Empowering Patients During Cancer Treatment with myFriendMD – Dr. Sarah Friend Dunwoody's Dr. Sarah Friend is bringing something new to cancer care. Through her virtual service myFriendMD, she gives breast cancer patients and their families what the medical system often cannot. Time, clarity, and emotional support. With over a decade of experience including years at Emory's Winship Cancer Institute she now helps patients slow down, ask better questions, and take control of their treatment journey. Her coaching model is built for the space between appointments. The part where fear sets in, questions build, and Google becomes your worst enemy. Dr. Friend steps in when patients need more than facts. They need perspective. They need to feel heard. You get to ask questions one through four during your doctor visit. She helps with questions five through twenty. The ones that matter just as much, but rarely get answered. Know someone facing breast cancer or walking beside someone who is? Visit myFriendMD.com   https://whatsupdunwoody.com/podcast-286-empowering-patients-during-cancer-treatment-with-myfriendmd-dr-sarah-friend/   What's Up Dunwoody Links:  

Podcast 285 – How $37M Has Transformed the JCC Into Dunwoody's Summer Destination – MJCCA CEO Jared Powers   Summer in Dunwoody has a new heartbeat, and it's the MJCCA. CEO Jared Powers, who grew up riding his bike to the J and later rose from camp counselor to CEO, shares how the 52-acre campus became the city's ultimate summer destination. Backed by a $37 million investment that upgraded both the Dunwoody campus and Camp Barney Medintz, the transformation has been bold, intentional, and community-focused.   The JCC offers elite day camps, a resort-style aquatic center, and a nationally recognized 15-court pickleball complex. Whether you're diving into splash pads, relaxing poolside, or grabbing a drink above the courts, there's something for everyone. And yes, it's open to everyone, even if you aren't Jewish. The MJCCA welcomes individuals and families of all backgrounds, ages, and beliefs. It's more than a gym or camp. It's where Dunwoody summers come alive.   Explore camps: whatsupdunwoody.com/jcamps
 Join for the summer: whatsupdunwoody.com/jcc     What's Up Dunwoody Links:  

Podcast 284 – Dunwoody's Hottest New Restaurants and Hidden Music Spots - Mark Galvin - Discover Dunwoody   Mark Galvin from Discover Dunwoody breaks down the local hot spots, from live music at Parkwoods and Louisiana Bistro to murder mystery dinner theater at the Marriott. Plus: what's holding back burger chains from moving to Dunwoody—and why locals are leaning into the no-drive-through lifestyle. Cuddlefish is now rolling sushi and brewing specialty coffee at High Street, while Steak & Grace brings a fresh take on upscale dining to the Village. CT Taqueria lights up Campus 244 with bold Tex-Mex and a clever coffee concept. Whether you're living in Dunwoody or just hungry for something new, this episode has you covered.   What's Up Dunwoody Links:  

Podcast 283 – Why Dunwoody Needs the DHA Now More Than Ever – Tim Brown   Before Dunwoody had a city council, it had the DHA. For decades, the Dunwoody Homeowners Association was the most organized and influential voice in town. It helped shape development, block unwanted commercial growth, and give residents a say in what happened next. Now, Tim Brown is stepping back into leadership with renewed energy after a challenging year. He shares why the DHA still matters, how Dunwoody is evolving, and how the organization will be there to stand up for you when it counts. Check out the DHA website to learn what a $40 membership means for the community and why it should matter more than a meal at Tim's favorite spot, Joey D's Steakhouse. https://dunwoodyga.org   What's Up Dunwoody Links:  

Podcast 282 – 25 Years After the Tornado and the Legacy of Lemonade Days – Kathy Florence and Hope Follmer   After a tornado ripped through Dunwoody in 1998, neighbors came together to replant, rebuild, and reconnect. What started as a tree-planting campaign grew into something lasting—Lemonade Days, the city's biggest celebration of resilience and community. Now in its 25th year, the festival continues to evolve while honoring its roots. Hope Follmer, who directs the festival for the Dunwoody Preservation Trust, and Kathy Florence, Communications Manager for the City and a former Honorary Miss Lemonade Days, have helped shape this milestone year. From carnival rides and food trucks to new features like chalk art, legacy lanyards, and local bands performing at the new Band Shell, 2025 feels like a perfect blend of nostalgia and new energy. While I won't be emceeing Dunwoody Idol this year, the heartbeat of the festival is stronger than ever. Whether you've lived here for decades or you're new to town, this is the week that reminds you of that small town feel we love.

Podcast 281 - How Dunwoody Entrepreneurs Are Staying Connected - Adam Forrand - Greater Perimeter Chamber   Are you growing a business in Dunwoody? Then this conversation is for you. Adam Forrand outlines how the Greater Perimeter Chamber supports entrepreneurs through meaningful connections, strategic guidance, and local influence. Membership offers far more than networking—it's access to real resources that help you grow. Learn how Chamber Advantage empowers teams and why joining now could be your smartest move in 2025.     Please support our sponsors: Village Orthodontics and Discover Dunwoody   Local events around the city. whatsupdunwoody.com/events   The best orthodontist in town. whatsupdunwoody.com/village   Search homes in Dunwoody. whatsupdunwoody.com/homes   Get to know Matt. whatsupdunwoody.com/matt   Find local businesses. whatsupdunwoody.com/local   What's Up Dunwoody merch. whatsupdunwoody.com/merch   Book a hotel staycation. whatsupdunwoody.com/hotels

Podcast 280 - What Dunwoody Parents Must Know About College Admissions - Brian Eufinger - Edison Prep   Back by popular demand, Brian Eufinger from Edison Prep joins me to break down everything Dunwoody parents need to know about college admissions—especially if (like me) your child is still in middle school. I wanted this conversation now, not later, because I know how confusing the process can be. Brian shares exactly when to start, what most families get wrong, and how to plan for scholarships and success. If you're looking for real answers, local insight, and expert advice you can trust, this episode delivers.

Podcast 279 - The Movement Making Dunwoody More Active and Connected - Lauren Sok   From leading fitness events to driving positive change in the Dunwoody Village, Lauren Sok is all about community connection. Through Active Dunwoody, she's inspiring people of all ages to stay active and support local businesses. As part of the Dunwoody Village Business Merchants Alliance and Create Dunwoody, she's helping revitalize the heart of the city. Don't miss the upcoming Art Scavenger Hunt on Thursday, April 3rd at 6:30pm at Lazy Dog. Solve clues, explore local artwork, and enjoy prizes, food, and fun for all ages! https://www.discoverdunwoody.com/event/active-dunwoody-scavenger-hunt/19434/   Please support our sponsors: Village Orthodontics and Discover Dunwoody whatsupdunwoody.com/village - Find out more about Dr Bret Freedman. whatsupdunwoody.com/events - Every Dunwoody event. All in one place. whatsupdunwoody.com/hotels - Book a staycation at a Dunwoody hotel.

Podcast 278 – From Brewing IPAs in Dunwoody to Selling THC on the Beltline - Allen Porter and Greg Gordon - THChill   Allen Porter built Dunwoody's first brewery, Porter Brew & Que, before recently making a bold move into THC-infused beverages with THChill. Now, he's expanding onto the Atlanta Beltline, transforming the way people drink with AI-powered innovation. Alongside hometown hero Greg Gordon, they've also reimagined Resilience Brew Pub into a ghost kitchen with four unique menus, redefining what a restaurant can be. Find out how these Dunwoody brewing pioneers are shaping the future of food, drink, and cannabis in the ATL. THChill.com resiliencebrewpub.com

Podcast 277 – The Unfiltered Truth About Liver Disease – Beth Lehman – Liver Life Walk at Brook Run Park   Beth Lehman's battle with alcoholism and liver cancer nearly cost her life, but a transplant saved her. Now she's on a mission to raise awareness with the Liver Life Walk Atlanta on April 12th at Brook Run Park. This walk, not a run, ensuring everyone can participate. Beth shares the urgent need for organ donors, and explains how most other countries automatically enroll donors. In the US, it is an opt-in program, and the number of donors is falling. Dunwoody, let's show up and make a difference! liverlifewalk.org/atlanta

Podcast 276 – Tacos, Burgers, and So Much Ice Cream Coming Soon – Mark Galvin – Discover Dunwoody   Ice cream spots are popping up all over town! Good Vibes is bringing a retro ice cream and soda shop to Funwoody, while Van Leeuwen is set to open at Park Place. Rosetta Bakery will soon debut its second Atlanta location, adding to High Street's growing lineup, which also includes Cuttlefish, a sushi and seafood market. CT Taqueria is preparing to open at Campus 244, part of an exciting new mixed-use development. From steakhouses to sushi, Dunwoody's restaurant scene is thriving, and Discover Dunwoody's trolley tour is the perfect way to explore it all!

Four shows. Four restaurants. ALL SOLD OUT! The first-ever Dunwoody Village Comedy Festival is taking over Marlow's Tavern, Vintage Pizzeria, Bar{n}, and Chupito's Azteca Grille this weekend! With Laughing Skull and Create Dunwoody behind the scenes, this event is bringing top stand-up acts straight to Dunwoody Village. Marshall has shaped Atlanta's comedy scene by launching careers, mentoring talent, and curating top-tier shows. Now he's bringing the smiles to Dunwoody!

Podcast 274 - How the Academy of Finance is Shaping Young Entrepreneurs - Student Task Force Matthew Moss and Gavin Horne discuss how the Academy of Finance at Dunwoody High School, under Steve Fortenberry's mentorship, set them on the path to entrepreneurial success. Their business, Student Task Force, offers services like pressure washing, junk removal, moving, landscaping, cleaning, organizing, and dog walking. If you could use any of these services, reach out to them at 844-440-3156. They're committed to supporting the local Dunwoody community while providing real work opportunities for younger students.

Podcast 273 - Local Event Raising $800k - Mark Schwartz - Crohn's & Colitis Foundation Torch Gala The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's 34th annual Torch Gala, hosted by Dunwoody's Mark Schwartz, aims to raise $800K for groundbreaking research. With Mark and his daughter personally affected, this event is more than just a fundraiser. Join him on February 8th at the Intercontinental Hotel in Buckhead in supporting a cause that touches many lives. https://torchgala.org/

Podcast 272 - The Loophole in Dunwoody's Smoking Laws - Jasmine Hooper - American Heart Association Jasmine Hooper shares how Dunwoody is tackling public health challenges. Learn how the city's collaboration with the American Heart Association is closing smoking loopholes, protecting residents, and stopping the growth of hookah lounges. Find out how you can help keep Dunwoody clean and healthy.

Podcast 271 - Meet the Local Instagram Sensations @MrAndMrsDunwoody - Greg and Julia Frament This is the inspiring couple behind @MrAndMrsDunwoody. After moving to Dunwoody, they launched an Instagram page that celebrates the best of local life. From mouthwatering meals to unforgettable adventures, they've become micro-influencers shining a spotlight on everything Dunwoody has to offer. Give them a follow. Discover their favorite spots, their passion for connecting the community, and how they're redefining what it means to explore the heart of Dunwoody, Georgia.

Podcast 270 - How a Gas Station in Dunwoody Became Home to Georgia's Best Burger - Billy Kramer NFA Burger owner Billy Kramer shares his journey from corporate advertising to creating Georgia's best smash burger in the heart of Dunwoody. Known for its community-first approach, NFA has become a local icon, drawing visitors from across the country while fostering a close-knit connection with Dunwoody residents. Kramer highlights his passion for exceptional customer service, his annual Burger Benefit supporting food workers, and his plans for growth, all while staying true to Dunwoody's unique charm.

Podcast 269 - Good Vibes Ice Cream Shop and the Rise of Funwoody - David Abes - Village Dunwoody   David Abes, the visionary behind Funwoody, shares his journey in creating vibrant spaces that will soon include Good Vibes Ice Cream. We talk about his experience as our Parade Grand Marshal, and how he's redefining community through events like Cinco de Hanukkah and Green Eggs and Kegs, while fostering local connections in the Village. From innovative dining to family-friendly activities, David's passion for making Dunwoody a destination shines.

Podcast 268 - Why Real Broker's Tech Model is Disrupting the Industry - Jenna Rozenblat - COO of Real I was so excited to have Jenna Rozenblat, COO of Real Broker, on the podcast this week. She shares her journey from tech startups to leading innovation in real estate, and we discuss Real Broker's agent-focused culture, groundbreaking technology like the all-in-one ReZEN platform, and the impact of AI tools on client experiences. Jenna shares insights on building supportive communities and balancing career growth with family life around Dunwoody.

This episode is all about the magic behind Light Up Dunwoody, exploring how it grew from a modest street gathering to a major community festival. Discover the hard work of dedicated volunteers, the impact of sponsorships, and the beloved traditions like Santa, reindeer, and dazzling tree and menorah lightings. This holiday spectacle highlights Dunwoody's spirit, bringing thousands together for unforgettable memories. Learn why this cherished event keeps the Dunwoody community connected and thriving.

Podcast 266 - This Dunwoody Class Could Save Your Life - Craig Wolpert - The Way of the Kitten Craig Wolpert discusses his journey from bullied kid to martial arts expert and founder of "The Way of the Kitten." Discover how Craig empowers groups of professionals in Dunwoody through practical self-defense training. Learn why situational awareness and simple, life-saving techniques matter most. We dive into Craig's unique teaching style, community impact, and how he's making living in Dunwoody safer for all.

Podcast 265 - The Little Gym of Dunwoody - Brent Macon with Macon Atlanta Brent Macon is bringing an exciting kids' gymnastics hub to Dunwoody Village. From infant classes to school-age programs, Little Gym offers engaging activities that build essential skills while kids have a blast. Brent also shares insights on parenting, community engagement, and the importance of physical play in a screen-heavy world. We also talk about his podcast Macon Atlanta, and how we are each treating the AI Revolution that is changing the business world. https://www.thelittlegym.com/georgia-dunwoody/

Podcast 264 - Behind the Scenes of Sister Act at Theater 1548 - Lia Prior and Scott Wilkinson Scott Wilkinson and Phillia "Lia" Prior tell me about the thriving theater scene at Dunwoody United Methodist Church's Theater 1548. We talk about the Sister Act production, rebranding efforts at DUMC, and how these local arts are shaping our community. Get your tickets now! The show runs October 3rd-6th and you can find out more at dunwoodyumc.org/theatre-1548.

Podcast 263 - Kacie Evans - Elevating Dunwoody High School Volleyball Kacie shares her incredible journey from playing professional volleyball for the Atlanta Vibe to leading the next generation of athletes in Dunwoody. She talks about her passion for the sport, the challenges of coaching a young team, and her excitement about the future of volleyball in Dunwoody.

Denice Dudley is helping to put together an amazing Dunwoody Oktoberfest event at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church on Saturday, September 28th from noon-6pm. Enjoy authentic German food trucks, beer, live music, family-friendly activities, and exciting raffle prizes. This vibrant community event, backed by tons of local sponsors, features a beer garden, Kinder Zone, cool cars, and much more. Don't miss out on Dunwoody's newest celebration—mark your calendars and join the fun! https://dunwoodyoktoberfest.com/

Keith Pepper, owner of Rough Draft Atlanta, shares his journey of transforming a traditional newspaper into a digital-first media powerhouse. This episode dives into the challenges of competing for attention in the digital age, the continued relevance of print media, and the role of newsletters in fostering community engagement. Keith also explores the future of hyperlocal journalism, the impact of AI, and strategies for sustaining local news in a rapidly changing media landscape. Perfect for those interested in the evolution of media and community-focused journalism.

Podcast 260 - Rotary Club of Dunwoody - Jack Sparks w/ Mosquito Joe This is the first of a few podcasts where I'll be highlighting Rotary Club of Dunwoody members. Jack is the outgoing club president and owner of Mosquito Joe of North Atlanta. We talk about everything from Rotary, mosquitos, Cornerstone Christian Academy, and how we met 6 years ago when I coached his son's soccer team.

Podcast 259 - Discover Dunwoody - Mark Galvin Discover Dunwoody is the official destination marketing organization for Dunwoody, Georgia. It promotes Dunwoody as a premier destination for visitors by highlighting the city's attractions, events, dining, shopping, and accommodation options. Check out their socials at @discoverdunwoody. I talk with Mark about marketing the city, and some of the cool stuff that is opening around Perimeter including the Game Show Battle Room! If you're helping out of town guests find a place to stay around Dunwoody, send them to www.discoverdunwoody.com/whatsupdunwoody

Podcast 258 - Leadership Perimeter - Rosalyn Putnam Leadership Perimeter has graduated over 1,000 leaders making a positive impact in their communities. Many from the City of Dunwoody. They also have a youth program for high school students that teaches leadership skills, resumés, and networking to learn how to interact with other community leaders. Rosalyn is the Executive Director and they are growing very quickly. Learn more at www.leadershipperimeter.org

Podcast 257 - Dunwoody 4th of July Parade - Leah Economos with EEP Events Who's excited about the 2024 Dunwoody 4th of July Parade?! This might be the largest Parade we've ever had. We wanted to highlight some of the fun participants and give a shoutout to the amazing sponsors. This year's Grand Marshal will be David Abes from Village Dunwoody. The parade starts at 9am. The Festival in the Village runs till around noon. You won't want to miss this year's fun!

Podcast 256 - Chuck Singleton 5K Run - Get Moving for the Movie Caroline Camick, Lisa Edmondson, and Karen Ketchum all grew up in Doraville, and now they are making a movie about the city they love. Join them for a 5K on June 29th where proceeds go to the production of the "Made in Doraville" movie. It starts and ends at the new Assembly Atlanta Studios and is going to be a great time!

Podcast 255 - Cathy Cobbs - Reporting On Dunwoody For Over 20 Years What's Up Dunwoody wouldn't be the same without all the other Dunwoody news media publications around us. I've shared countless articles on social media that Cathy Cobbs has written over the years, and learned so much from her Dunwoody Reporter and now Rough Draft stories. She reached out to me a couple weeks ago about a story she was writing about my Facebook groups, and I talked her into recording another podcast with me. We get into all kinds of Dunwoody stuff, as she is an absolute wealth of knowledge after covering the city for 20 years!

Podcast 254 - DeKalb County School Board District 1 (Part 3 of 3) - Austin McDonald Early elections start today! Austin McDonald is one of the two candidates running for the District 1 position. Austin finds inspiration in the stories of the local schools shared by his wife's family and his grandmother, a retired educator. Despite current challenges, Austin remains optimistic about the future of DeKalb County schools. He understands the importance of voting for someone who is both realistic about the present circumstances and optimistic about what lies ahead. Austin is committed to rolling up his sleeves and working tirelessly to address the issues facing our schools. He believes that with hard work and determination, we can overcome obstacles and build a brighter future for our students. https://austinmcdonaldfordekalb.com/ https://www.facebook.com/AustinCmcdonald ELECTION DAY IS MAY 21ST

Podcast 253 - DeKalb County School Board District 1 (Part 2 of 3) - Andrew Ziffer Early elections start today! Andrew Ziffer is one of the two candidates running for the District 1 position. Andrew is a local parent who has lived in Dunwoody for the past 17 years and Chamblee for the previous 12 years. He is a corporate and small business professional with a career in commercial real estate, Information Technology, facilities management, and non-profits. Andrew is an active volunteer and leader in local and regional schools and has been since his son, a DeKalb student, began school in 2011. https://www.andrewziffer.com/ https://www.facebook.com/AndrewZifferforDeKalbSchools ELECTION DAY IS MAY 21ST

Podcast 252 - DeKalb County School Board District 1 (Part 1 of 3) - Anna Hill Early elections start today! Anna Hill is our current District 1 Representative. She is serving through December, and has done a great job over the first few years holding the County fiscally accountable. We kick off this 3 part series talking about her time on the Board thus far. She gets into what exactly a School Board Rep does, and what we (as voters) should look for in our next representative. Part 2 will feature Andrew Ziffer Part 3 will feature Austin McDonald

Podcast 251 - Touring Assembly Atlanta - Stacey Risley Stacey is the Host of the Good Neighbor North Atlanta Podcast and the Publisher of Dunwoody Neighbors Magazine. In this episode we discuss Dunwoody podcasting and what we thought of our behind the scenes tour of the massive Assembly Atlanta film studios in Doraville.

Podcast 250 - Lemonade Days - Hope Follmer and Mark Gallegos   Lemonade Days is Wednesday through Sunday this week! If you're new to Dunwoody, you have to experience the small town feel. On this episode, Hope Follmer tells us all about what's new this year. Come for the cheaper $20 unlimited rides on Wednesday and Thursday, and then make sure you're back on Saturday Night for the music. I'll be hosting Dunwoody Idol, and there will be a new twist on the Battle of the Bands that you don't want to miss!   Wednesday April 17th through Sunday April 21st Admission is FREE! Individual ride tickets are $1.25 each Buy UNLIMITED daily ride passes (wristbands) for just: $20 on Wednesday & Thursday – FAMILY NIGHTS $30 per day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Wristbands are valid for the day of purchase only SORRY, NO PETS ARE ALLOWED

Podcast 249 - Rush Union Soccer at Brook Run - Neil McNabb Rush Union Soccer has done an incredible job utilizing the new fields at Brook Run. The Webers spend a lot of time there, and we love the family atmosphere that the City and the Club have developed. I play in the over-40 league there on Mondays, and my boys practice there 4 nights a week during the season and we're there for games on weekends. I wanted to have Neil back on the show to share his experience with Dunwoody over the last few years, and to share all of the new stuff going on with Rush Union. https://www.rushunionsoccer.org/dekalb-home

Podcast 248 - Cheek-Spruill Farmhouse - Melanie Williams The most iconic property in Dunwoody is now available for lease. They are looking for a tenant that won't put a lot of wear and tear on the building, just as the previous law firm did a wonderful job of that. Go by and visit the History Room at the Farmhouse, and learn about the past use of that property. Reach out to the Dunwoody Preservation Trust for more information! https://dunwoodypreservationtrust.org/

Podcast 247 - Mike Petchenik - Petchenik Media Group You may know that name from his days on Channel 2 News. Mike Petchenik is a National Emmy Award-winning communicator and strategic storyteller. He spent 20 years in broadcasting, covering the area around Dunwoody. We talk about his days as a news reporter, and how he used those skills and talents to start his own media company. mikepetchenik.com

Podcast 246 - Spruill Artistic Affair Event - Alan Mothner Alan is one of my favorite Dunwoodians. He is CEO of the Spruill Center for the Arts, and an all around good guy. In this episode, we talk about the direction of Spruill and their brand new facility update. Alan breaks down the public/private partnership that the city has with its non-profits. Then he shows off some of the live auction items for the upcoming event, including a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 12 Year Old Lot "B" that Joey D's helped him acquire.  Saturday, March 23rd - It will sell out, so get your tickets now! spruillarts.org/artistic-affair

Podcast 245 - Mitzvah House - Chaya Goldberg After spreading light in more than a dozen countries, the Goldbergs landed in Dunwoody. At the Mitzvah House, they believe in world peace, no more hunger and a time filled with abundance and joy. It just starts with one good deed. We talk about the Community Forum, what she loves about Dunwoody, and how to get involved with their amazing projects.

Podcast 244 - BKS Partners - Hannah O'Donoghue If you've done any professional networking around Dunwoody, you've probably run into Hannah. She's a wealth of knowledge when it comes to insurance and risk management and still makes time to volunteer around the community in many different ways including the Chesnut Challenge, Dunwoody Galloway Running Group, and Emily's Trick or Treat to Cure Crohn's & Colitis. Here's a conversation with a great friend where we talk about all the things! BKS Partners - www.bks-partners.com Dunwoody Galloway Running Group - https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Atlanta/AtlantaHalfMarathonGallowayTrainingMJCCA Emily's Trick or Treat to cure Crohn's & Colitis - https://emilystrickortreat.org/

Podcast 243 - Ark Coffeehaus - Priscilla Wells Dunwoody's newest coffee shop is located on the south side PIB gateway and has been a huge hit since opening a few weeks ago. Ark is a craft coffee & tea shop specializing in nutrient dense food and regenerative practices. They work closely with a local farm to ensure to put more nutrients back into the farmlands than they take out of it. The vibe is on-point with the art and boutique offerings. Ark is a great addition to Dunwoody, so if your commute runs through Tilly Mill be sure to check them out!

Podcast 242 - A Better Dunwoody - Erika Harris   Leading up to the Bond Referendum Vote a few weeks ago, there was a lot of talk about “what makes for a better Dunwoody”. Everyone has their opinion, but I think we all learned a lot about our city when the Bond failed to pass. Dunwoody is fundamentally different than those around us. We don't want to make the same type of investments as most of the surrounding cities. But now that we more fully understand this, where do we go from here? Erika Harris is part of the A Better Dunwoody movement, and someone that I really respect in our community. I reached out to her to continue the conversation about the Bond Vote and discuss what's next for the City of Dunwoody.

Podcast 241 - Light Up Dunwoody and EEP Events - Jimmy Economos   Jimmy DJ'd his own Dunwoody Homecoming Dance and has been producing events around the city ever since. He and his wife Leah are vital in helping put on the 4th of July Parade. In the last few years, they've really taken Light Up Dunwoody to a whole new level. Come out and enjoy the festivities on Sunday, November 19th!   https://dunwoodyga.org/light-up-dunwoody/ Entertainment Schedule 2pm:  Doors open! Enjoy holiday music, visits with Santa, face painters, Reindeer Photos, Crafts Station and Food Trucks 3pm: Performance by Dan and Co 3:30pm: Performance by North Georgia School of Ballet 4pm: Performance by Dan and Co 4:30 pm: Performance by Atlanta Metro Youth Flute Choir 5pm: Welcome by DHA president and thanks to our sponsors! 5:30pm: Performance by Dunwoody HS Marching Band 6pm: Santa and Reindeer Light Tree and Menorah from the Sleigh!

Podcast 240 - DUMC Performing Arts - Scott Wilkinson and Joy Gregory   This is a big weekend for DUMC Performing Arts! Come join them for a journey Into the Woods with a talented cast and amazing director. Joy Gregory has plenty of professional musical theatre directing experience and is currently a second year M. Div. student at Emory's Candler School of Theology. She is thrilled to be working with DUMC's Performing Arts Ministry. There are still tickets available and you don't want to miss it!   October 13-15 https://dunwoodyumc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/600/responses/new

Podcast 239 - Parks, Trails, and Greenspace Bond Vote Nov. 7th - Joe Seconder   Dunwoody's bond referendum gives voters the power to decide if the City of Dunwoody can issue bonds to invest in major City projects and improvements. This will appear on the November 7, 2023 ballot. Bond financing would be used for capital projects to build or improve physical assets like facilities and infrastructure (click on the link below) that will be used by our community for many years into the future.   A Better Dunwoody is a group of Dunwoody Citizens working to improve the quality of life in our city through advocacy, education and action. If you'd like to get involved, click the link below. www.abetterdunwoody.com

Podcast 238 - DinoWoody - Lisa Torres