Podcasts about Northwest Arkansas

We sit down with Josh and Sean from The Hub to talk about Hub 2.0. It's designed for everything that happens around the ride, from a good cup of coffee to start the day to swapping stories after a bike ride. The goal is a space that feels easy and welcoming, where visitors start to feel like regulars pretty quickly. They've recently expanded both their menu and their space, and partnered with Santa Cruz Bikes to offer rentals as well.We get specific about what makes the Hub a true cycling experience center in Northwest Arkansas. Josh explains how the bike shop side works, from the Santa Cruz demo experience and rental fleet to the “white-glove” setup that helps you find the right ride, whether you're brand new or chasing bigger lines. Sean shares how the original vision started as a community gathering place and why growth was unavoidable once the lounge became more popular.Then we dig into the parts that turn a cycling trip into a full itinerary: live music, DJs, group rides, and partnerships with local organizations that keep the community connected. You'll also hear the practical details people actually need, like how to book rentals ahead, how the greenway leads you in, and what to order when you're refueling, from happy hour deals to brunch favorites. Make sure you subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave us a review so more people can find it.A New American Town is here to help you plan your trip to Bentonville, Arkansas. From guides, events, and restaurant highlights. Find all this and more at visitbentonville.com and subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn.  You can listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, CastBox, Podcast Casts, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Podcast Addict.  

Anthony Ball is back in the studio with Brock for the first time in years, and the show kicks off with old memories, salsa talk, and the idea of throwing a full-on blind taste-test salsa party. Anthony, the president of Good People Club and the man behind Smooth Man Music, jumps right into the morning's trending thread: what is the dumbest question a customer has ever asked you?The answers are hilariously painful, from people asking the difference between a hamburger and a cheeseburger, to customers wondering if cheeseburgers come with cheese, to people asking if a DJ company provides microphones, even though the answer is already in every email. Brock and Anthony also talk about those classic “please just read the email” moments every business owner understands.A big focus of the episode is Freedom Fest, happening in downtown Springdale at Luther George Park. Anthony shares how the event started as a small pop-up in 2021 with around 600 people and has now grown into a huge free Juneteenth celebration with thousands attending. The festival includes food trucks, kids activities, vendors, live music, horse rides, and a stacked lineup featuring Hurricane Chris, Rose Royce, GS Boys, The Brown 4, gospel groups, dance teams, and more.The show also highlights the work Anthony is doing through Music Moves, including music history education, school programs, performances, and the Music Depot in downtown Rogers, a jazz and blues club that also hosts comedy, soul, rock, country, and live events.As always, the morning gets wonderfully random. Brock and Anthony cover expensive Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle pizza, UFO talk, an ice cream shop owner confronting a bad reviewer, a $13,000 smart toilet that drives to your bed, Tesla self-driving, Palisade road-trip hacks, White House calligraphers, MC Hammer-inspired Aladdin pants, and whether community spanking used to be a real thing in small towns.The 7 AM Challenge brings questions about puppies, Amazon delivery guys, email time, and fake eyebrows made from mouse fur. Dirty on the 30 covers Shrek 5, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce wedding rumors, Tom Holland and Zendaya, Austin Powers coming back, Jelly Roll and Bunny XO rumors, Shania Twain, classic TV dads, and the return of Venus and Serena Williams at Wimbledon.The show also gets into Juneteenth events around Northwest Arkansas, Siloam Springs growth, downtown revitalization in Springdale and Rogers, Good Day NWA, income rankings by state, Home Improvement nostalgia, blue Gatorade hot dogs, pickle-flavored everything, and the rise of pickles as the “pumpkin spice of summer.”The episode wraps with one more push for Freedom Fest, Anthony's Springdale Lifestyle cover, the growth of Music Moves, and an open invite to check out the Music Depot in downtown Rogers. It is a fun, fast-moving episode full of local culture, business-owner humor, community pride, and plenty of reasons to head to downtown Springdale for the party.

In this week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we're in Rogers at the new Chuo Izakaya, talking to some seasoned vets- Owner Darwin Beyer, Head Chef Colin Stewart and Beverage Director Shaun Traxler. But first?!?! FOOD NEWS!! The James Beard Awards were held on Monday night. Onyx was a finalist for Best Bar in the US, and Jason Paul of Heirloom was a finalist for Best Chef of the South. You'll hear & see what happened. Handel's opens in Fayetteville on Thursday, and they're doing something special for it. We'll hear from one of the owners! Chicken chain Huey Magoo's is coming to NWA. We'll tell you where. Homegrown is officially coming to Fayetteville. We'll tell you where it'll be. We'll tell you about a food drive in Bentonville at Sun Painted Farm. Happy first birthday to Archie's Sandwichery. That was QUICK! A Dickson Street mainstay is closing. A Tex-Mex chain closed nationwide over the weekend, and their Rogers location In this week's Flavors Flashback, House 1830's Binh Hoang talksabout placing a premium on front of house hospitality. Chuo Izakaya has been a long time coming for Co-Owner Darwin Beyer. In his pursuit of building a Japanese Tavern experience in Northwest Arkansas, he was able to surround himself with some exceptionally experienced folks, including Head Chef Colin Stewart and Beverage Director Shaun Traxler. We'll hear from all three about how they got to Chuo Izakaya, we'll hear about the menu, including what's new, and we'll also hear about the sickly creative drinks coming from Shaun. Lastly, they're starting something new there, and you'll hear about it here, first. And that's on this week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast.

What does affirmative consent law reform, university sex education, and AI-powered law enforcement tools have in common? They're all part of Stefanie Hammett's ambitious startup, HMS.HMS (Have More Safety · Have More Sex · Have More Space) is a consent education company with a bold 2036 goal: insert affirmative consent into all 50 state criminal codes. But getting there means building a real business — with a direct-to-consumer product line, a university B2B pilot program, and a law enforcement tech partnership with Clipper AI.Stefanie breaks down:The "drip effect" strategy for getting consent education into university campusesWhy selling to law enforcement requires showing up 17 times before they trust youHow she balances a world-changing mission with the mechanics of actually building a startupHer advice to founders: presence, biohacking, and trusting your own clarityAnd more!

On today's show, we learn there's new ownership for a collection of hospitals and medical centers in Northwest Arkansas. We also continue our survey of a documentary on Arkansas' history created to mark the country's Bicentennial. Plus, we hear a new edition of Sound Perimeter.

Latinas en Bici (LEB) was founded in 2019, when Olivia Barraza had a vision to create inclusive cycling opportunities for Latina women. It's now grown into Northwest Arkansas's most welcoming cycling community. The motto is "Ride, Connect, Thrive." Read the full post at http://RunningAFEVER.com/469  

In today's episode 140 of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk with Henry Francis of Evergreen Pasture & Provisions- what a story they have... but before we sit with Henry?!?! FOOD NEWS!!! Emma's Market & Bottle Shop is open in downtown Springdale! We'll hear from the owners. Dave's Hot Chicken opened in Rogers to a HUGE line, and a guys taking he Reaper Challenge. Bless him! The gluten-free bakery Dempsey Bakery opened Monday in Fayetteville. We'll tell you about it! According to the Fayetteville Flyer, Gusano's is coming to the East side of Fayetteville. We'll tell you where! Today's your last chance to win some fine whiskeys, benefitting Lifeline NWA. A new dumpling and ramen restaurant is coming to Rogers! Happy 14th, Fossil Cove!! Foghorns in Springdale has closed their doors. In Today's Flavors Flashback, we hear from Owner & Executive Chef of Mezzaluna, Soerke Peters. In 1990, he was the executive chef for the World's Fair in Russia and Siberia. The stories in that podcast are some of the best that we've ever had... one of the best ones was about his plane ride from Munich, Germany to Russia. Henry & Kylee Francis own Evergreen Pasture & Provisions. They started by selling their beef at the Fayetteville Farmer's Market and were overwhelmed by the response they were getting. Since then? They've opened a storefront in the gorgeous Berryville Square, where they sell regional goods including some from local producers. And now? Delivery to most of Northwest Arkansas, with all coming shortly. We'll hear how Henry and Kylee met, how they ended up in Berryville, and how you can get your product on their shelves. That's next, here on the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas. Please like and subscribe!!

Brock and Jon sit down with longtime Northwest Arkansas wedding photographer Dale Benfield of Benfield Photography for a funny, story-filled conversation about weddings, photography, vendor teamwork, and 20 years in the industry.They kick things off with wild wedding stories, including a groom spending his honeymoon in jail, cake-smashing disasters, Klingon wedding ceremonies, and reception drama that proves weddings are never boring.Dale shares how he went from teaching to building a high-end photography brand, why relationships matter more than gear, how he handles luxury clients, destination weddings, celebrity/privacy situations, and why the best photographers know how to read people—not just camera settings.The episode also covers working with DJs, family legacy, emotional dad moments, wedding trends, building trust with clients, and Dale's advice for photographers trying to break into the business.

About the Show:"Black Paper Party doesn't exist if it's not for the authentic representation of the Black diaspora and our products." – Jasmine HudsonWhat does it really take to build a business rooted in culture, stay true to your mission, and scale to 20,000 points of distribution—all from Northwest Arkansas? Jasmine Hudson, co-founder of Black Paper Party, is living proof that it's possible.In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn welcomes Jasmine back for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, representation, and what growth really looks like when you refuse to compromise your values. From packing orders in her garage during the early days to landing shelf space with major retailers, Jasmine pulls back the curtain on the journey—including what really happened after the Shark Tank cameras stopped rolling.Jasmine also shares how Black Paper Party is using AI and technology to operate smarter, what it means to be selected for the prestigious Endeavor Heartland Scale Up Accelerator, and why staying connected to the mission of celebrating Black joy and culture has been their greatest competitive advantage.Whether you're a founder grinding through the early stages, an entrepreneur looking to scale without losing your soul, or someone who simply believes that representation matters—this episode is for you. Pull up a chair and get ready to be inspired.Key Takeaways:Authenticity Matters: Staying true to your mission and serving your community is at the heart of lasting growth and brand loyalty.Growth Is a Journey: Black Paper Party went from the garage to major retailers by focusing on both process and relationships.Technology as a Tool: Leveraging AI can help small teams do more, from managing e-commerce to automating business tasks—but it should never replace original thinking.Retail Wisdom: Walmart can be a powerful incubator for brands, especially for those who understand their customer and the importance of scalability.Community and Networking: Programs like Endeavor Heartland Scale Up provide important mentorship and support, but you have to put in the work to benefit.Resilience in Business: Setbacks, like shipping disasters or lost deals, are part of the journey—true grit keeps you moving forward.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Website: Black Paper PartyBlack Paper Party on InstagramBlack Paper Party on FacebookBlack Paper Party on LinkedInEndeavor Heartland Scale Up Accelerator: endeavor.org (Check show notes for direct links.)Canem Arkan Endeavor Heartland EmailShawn Morris Endeavor Heartland EmailJasmine Hudson on LinkedInFindItNWA.com NWA's Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest ArkansasMentioned in this episode:FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas?

In this Special Edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we learn about the first year of Chefs & Fire benefitting Apple Seeds in Fayetteville. It'll be happening Sunday, June 14 and tickets are going SUPER fast. To get yours, goto https://appleseedsar.org/events and HURRY! In this episode, we are joined by Mary Thompson, Executive Director of Apple Seeds, Jerrmy Gawthrop, co-owner/executive chef of Woodstone Pizza, and Elliot Hunt, owner/executive chef of Atlas the Restaurant. We talk about the concept of the evening, cooking over open flame and who will be joining Jerrmy and Elliot over open flame. That list includes Brooks & Ali Cameron of Bloom Cheese Collective, Sam Walker of Gaskins on Emma, Darwin Beyer of Meiji & Chuo Izakaya, Matt Cooper of Conifer & Ryn. Handshake will also be there for the wood-fired desserts and Crisis Brewing will be there with beer! Thanks for listening!

We're continuing our series on cycling in Northwest Arkansas. This time, we're talking about Women of Oz, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women through the sport of mountain biking. Read the full post at http://RunningAFEVER.com/468  

In week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we're at Columbus House Brewery in Fayetteville talking with co-owner Carey Ashworth – but before we talk with her?!?! FOOD NEWS!! Bentoville Food Theater is FINALLY open! Onyx at the Preserve is soft opening- KIND OF. We'll tell you what that means. Bloom Cheese Collective is expanding. We'll hear about it from co-owner Brooks Cameron! Ozzie's Ride & Dine has opened at the base of the OZ Trails Bike Park in Bella Vista. We'll hear from Luke Wetzel about their offerings. Ozark Charcuterie in downtown Rogers is officially open! Owner Mallory Files will tell you what the spot is, and what it's not! PJ's Coffee of New Orleans opened Monday at the Summit Shopping Center in Rogers. Local Franchisee Bo Grimes will tell us why it took so long! Dave's Hot Chicken is just a few doors down from PJ's. We'll tell you when they'll be opening. House 1830's Binh Hoang outlines Monday's House 1830/Downtown Rogers Night Market. Happy 9 year anniversary to Southern Food Company! Happy 7 years to Yankabilly Smokehouse! Happy first anniversary to Wu Zhao in downtown Bentonville! In Today's Flavors Flashback, Mallory Files talks about going HUGELY viral in 2024, when we interviewed her for the first time! The Columbus House Brewery has already been open for over a decade! Carey Ashworth and Jason Corral have taken a smallish 3-barrel system and absolutely run with it. Carey talks about the freedom that they have with their setup. Also, did you know that they initially looked to open at a Fayetteville landmark? Carey will tell you which one. Finally, Carey and Jason have grown a community at Columbus House, which was something that Carey had never had growing up as a military kid. She'll tell that story and much more, on this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas.

The last talk from the International Men's Summit was about answering the call to serve Influencers.  The calling to Jesus, to follow Jesus, to abide in Jesus and to make disciples are all non-negotiable, but there are some who are also called to serve God through Influencers.  Sach Oliver, a trial attorney and leader in Northwest Arkansas, did a great job of challenging the men to find their place of service in ministry. 

Join Andrew Ellis, Curtis Wilkerson and Cameron Green following Arkansas' rematch against Kansas in the Lawrence Regional! OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #ryansilverfield #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! www.insidearkansas.com/betsaracen Terms apply. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- FIGHT HOUSE GYM Check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level. Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49. Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 to step inside… and bring the fight! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- OZK INSURANCE Alright Razorback fans—let's talk insurance. Nobody wants to deal with the hassle of shopping around, and that's why we use and recommend OZK Insurance. They're based right here in Arkansas, and they shop multiple carriers to find the best coverage and price for you—whether it's home, auto, business, you name it. Whether it's Saturdays at Razorback Stadium or everyday life, you want protection you can count on. So count on OZK Insurance & get a free online quote at ozkinsurance.com, or call (479) 715-4200. OZK Insurance—Protection made simple. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ! Cater any events-weddings, parties, etc Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing. https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Andrew Ellis, Curtis Wilkerson and Cameron Green on a postgame edition of The Baumbastic Podcast following Arkansas' game in the NCAA Tournament against Kansas in winners' bracket of the Lawrence Regional! OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #ryansilverfield #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! www.insidearkansas.com/betsaracen Terms apply. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- FIGHT HOUSE GYM Check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level. Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49. Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 to step inside… and bring the fight! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- OZK INSURANCE Alright Razorback fans—let's talk insurance. Nobody wants to deal with the hassle of shopping around, and that's why we use and recommend OZK Insurance. They're based right here in Arkansas, and they shop multiple carriers to find the best coverage and price for you—whether it's home, auto, business, you name it. Whether it's Saturdays at Razorback Stadium or everyday life, you want protection you can count on. So count on OZK Insurance & get a free online quote at ozkinsurance.com, or call (479) 715-4200. OZK Insurance—Protection made simple. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ! Cater any events-weddings, parties, etc Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing. https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The visual identity of a soccer club is more than a commercial asset; it is a direct reflection of local pride and collective memory. When teams rely on generic templates or superficial branding, they miss a critical window to anchor themselves into the cultural fabric of their community. Managing Director Wes Harris sits down with kit collector and analyst Gage Dunson to explore how jersey design serves as a powerful medium for regional storytelling.We get into the tactical mechanics of building an authentic club brand from the ground up, tracing Dunson's evolution from a casual viewer to housing a curated collection of 184 jerseys. The conversation covers the distinct creative freedom found within USL design ecosystems compared to MLS constraints, the emergence of localized art deco and landmark patterns, and the logistical realities of international apparel supply chains. Dunson breaks down his unique evaluation framework, detailing why a controversial aesthetic succeeds if it honors local lore, and shares the profound impact of the historic Marshall Islands kit debut right in Northwest Arkansas.The deeper reality of sports merchandise lies in the grueling friction between commercial scale and cultural authenticity. Developing a garment that resonates across fragmented municipalities requires moving past surface level aesthetics and embracing the specific, sometimes conflicting histories of a region. Listeners will walk away with a functional understanding of how deliberate design choices cultivate deep consumer loyalty and transform standard merchandise into a shared community banner.If you care about sports business, club branding, and soccer culture, you will get a lot from this episode. Please remember to subscribe to the channel and share this conversation with a fellow fan. We want to know your thoughts in the comments section below: What local landmark or piece of regional history does your club need to feature on its next jersey design?

Join Curtis Wilkerson as he checks in from rainy Lawrence, Kansas with final thoughts on Arkansas' offseason to this point and what moves remain for the Razorbacks to reach true contender status for next season. OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/  #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Insurance Town, I get to interview my good friend Casey Armstrong of Canopy Connect. We dive into the innovative ways Canopy Connect is revolutionizing data collection for insurance agencies. Casey shares insights on how their platform simplifies client interactions, enhances data accuracy, and integrates seamlessly into existing workflows. Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of insurance technology and how agencies can leverage these tools for growth and efficiency..In this episode: Casey shares his journey with Canopy Connect from its inception in 2020 and how agency data collection has evolved.The simplicity of using QR codes and custom referral links to streamline prospect interactions.How Canopy Connect's Trailhead feature offers flexible, choose-your-own-adventure insurance pathways.The real-world impact of instant loss runs and deck pages extracted directly from carriers' systems.The role of AI in automating mundane tasks, freeing agents to focus on trusted advisory.Unique marketing strategies like limo rides and conference appearances to connect with customers creatively.The importance of human oversight in AI solutions to ensure accuracy and trust.Case stories illustrating premium increases through correct coverage and client advocacy.Practical tips for agencies new to Canopy Connect, including the ease of integrating it into current workflows.Casey's heartfelt message on gratitude, technological progress, and the future of insurance. Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome to Insurance Town & Casey Armstrong intro 00:29 - Canopy Connect: The one-click solution for agencies 00:58 - The benefits of automation and the Trailhead feature 01:26 - AI for insurance: saving time and improving accuracy 02:23 - Exploring innovative marketing strategies and conference fun 03:00 - Casey's background, biking stories, and Northwest Arkansas 07:28 - How Canopy Connect transforms prospect engagement 08:08 - The value of instant carrier data and loss runs 09:39 - Bringing human oversight to AI automation 10:34 - The manual effort saved by AI and data accuracy 12:23 - How deck pages from carriers eliminate errors 15:08 - Commercial accounts insights and loss history access 16:13 - Simplified onboarding for new users of Canopy Connect 16:53 - Embedding Canopy into existing agency workflows 20:16 - Real-world client stories: under-insured homes & premium impacts 24:28 - Trailhead: The flexible, customizable journey paths 28:23 - The speed and efficiency benefits of Canopy Connect 30:34 - Lead tracking and prospect management dashboard 36:37 - Creative marketing: conference limos & branded experiences 38:35 - Heartfelt messages to existing customers and prospects 42:08 - Casey's call to action: harnessing technology for growth & successResources & Links: Canopy Connect - Streamline client data collection and quoting1Fort AI - AI automation for insurance submissions and quotingMAV - Text messaging solutions for prospect qualification Casey Armstrong on LinkedIn Connect with Casey: LinkedIn Email: casey@usecanopy.com Note: This lively and authentic discussion highlights cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of insurance. Whether you're an agent, agency owner, or industry innovator, Casey's insights will inspire your next move—embrace technology, improve efficiency, and grow your business with confidence.

In week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk with Alex Thaley of The Botanical at 8th and A in Bentonville, Botanical at City Pump in downtown Rogers, The Botanical in Fayetteville and formerly of the Artemis Temperance Lounge in Fayetteville. There's plenty to talk about with Alex, but before we do... FOOD NEWS!! Onyx opens their doors on the Bentonville Square in the Bentoville shared space. The popular Vagabond Coffee Bar will have a brick-and-mortar location soon! There's a new brewery opening soon in Rogers. We'll tell you about them! House 1830 is hosting their 2nd Night Market on June 2. Owner Binh Hoang will tell us why this year will be different! Happy 2 years to Black Howler Beer. We'll tell you what their plans are for Saturday and talk about how they got their name in today's Flavors Flashback! Happy first year anniversary to Lasang Pinoy! And now the hard part. We talk about the big round of closings that happened last week, and will be happening this week: Mong Dynasty, Love + Flour Bakery & Café, Kaleidoscope Café, OZ's Smokehouse, Flashback Pizza, and Artemis Temperance Lounge. Alex Thaley is the owner/operator of the Botanical bars in Bentonville, Downtown Rogers and in Fayetteville... He also owned the Artemis Temperance Lounge, and last week, after 5 months of operation, he closed it down. He'll tell us the story behind that. Also, the decision to leave corporate America to run a bar, OF COURSE he's got stories about that. Roofer, teacher, tech guy, business builder, and now bar entrepreneur... We talk to Alex Thaley, next here on the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas.

Join Curtis Wilkerson for a late-night stroll as he delivers a final vibe check and off the cuff chat on Arkansas basketball's massive stay-or-go decisions as the waiting game FINALLY starts winding down. OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SummaryWhat happens when passion for storytelling meets the entrepreneurial spirit? In this episode of the Startup Junkies podcast, Danielle Keller, media entrepreneur, award-winning podcaster, and editor-in-chief of Northwest Arkansas's beloved Peekaboo magazine, joins Daniel Koonce, Caleb Talley, and Ty Steele for a conversation packed with inspiration, nostalgia, and the realities of building community through storytelling.Danielle shares her fascinating career journey, from her beginnings in California writing for school papers, through a detour in higher education, to diving fearlessly into documentary film, video production, and ultimately acquiring and revitalizing Peekaboo magazine. She details how Peekaboo, once a crucial parental resource before the rise of social media, became a passion project resurrected through grit, research, and community demand. The print magazine's unique sensory experience illustrates the hunger for tangible connections in a digital age.Listeners will delight in anecdotes about local mascot Ozzy the Ozark Fox, created by Danielle's daughter, and how family, authenticity, and real community voices shape every issue. The episode highlights the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and embracing both print and digital platforms as Peekaboo grows and evolves.With future visions of podcasts, dynamic web offerings, and newsletters, Danielle reminds us that it's never too late to pursue fresh dreams, amplify others' voices, and savor the present. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, storytellers, and anyone who believes in the lasting power of local stories!Show Notes(00:00) Danielle's Career Path in Media(04:06) Starting Peekaboo for Parents(09:48) Evaluating Print Magazine Revival(18:10) Creating a Themed Editorial Calendar(20:37) Seasonal Advertising Opportunities(23:07) Expanding Digital Content(33:21) Closing ThoughtsLinksDaniel KoonceCaleb TalleyTy SteeleStartup JunkieStartup Junkie YouTubeDanielle KellerPeekaboo Magazine

About the Show:"There's something here for everybody in Northwest Arkansas, and it's the kind of place that, you know, you really can make your dreams come true in a space like this. It's not gonna be easy, but because, you know, people are really open to building relationships and really connecting with you, I mean, I can't think of more fertile territory for you to start something."— Randy WilburnOn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, recorded in partnership with the Startup Junkies Podcast, Daniel Koontz and Ty Steele welcome Randy Wilburn, founder and host of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, to share his journey from Boston to Fayetteville and the power of community, storytelling, and entrepreneurship in the region. Randy talks about building the podcast he wished existed when he moved here, the growth and unique character of Northwest Arkansas, and how relationships are the secret ingredient for business success.Randy shares why he believes the region is fertile ground for founders, thanks to its welcoming ecosystem, mentorship opportunities, and teams willing to support even newcomers. Whether you're inspired by the stories of Walmart, Tyson, and J.B. Hunt or you want tips for discovering your "why" and connecting with your audience, this episode gives you the tools to dream big—and start small.Relationships Matter: Success in Northwest Arkansas starts with building authentic connections. Taking time to network and ask for help—from mentors or other founders—can open the right doors 08:32.It's a Fertile Land for Founders: The region's collaborative spirit, from the legacy of local giants like Walmart and Tyson to today's startups, makes Northwest Arkansas a unique place to launch and grow a business 10:16.Embrace Change and Be Ready to Pivot: The market speaks loudly. Randy shares the lesson that knowing when to change course is critical for lasting success 13:32.Storytelling is Timeless: Every founder needs to be able to clearly articulate their story and their why. Start with knowing who you are and what makes your business stand out 18:44.Incremental Growth Wins: Focus on getting just 1% better every day, and over time you'll see huge results, both for yourself and your business 25:33.Take Advantage of Local Resources: From free tech tools to the Fayetteville Public Library and organizations like Startup Junkie, Northwest Arkansas has what founders need to test ideas and get started without huge upfront costs 37:40.Listen to the Market: Seeking honest feedback—beyond friends and family—is the fastest way to know if your idea has potential. Don't ignore what real customers want 14:32.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*I Am Northwest Arkansas® Podcast WebsiteFayetteville Public LibraryStartup JunkieOnyx CoffeeZweig GroupSam Walton's AutobiographyAtomic Habits by James ClearNorthwest Arkansas CouncilJB HuntTyson FoodsThis episode is sponsored by:FindItNWA.com - Find It Fast. Find It Local.Signature Bank of ArkansasONBoardNWA.com HyperLocal Jobs in NWAThis episode is sponsored by*FindItNWA.com - Find It Fast. Find It Local.Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"Try ONBoardNWA.com Today!*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest ArkansasMentioned in this episode:FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas?

On today's Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson:  Updated roster following Maper Maker addition Latest Leek-Billy vibe check as final countdown to decision deadline approaches Rapid-fire big man notes OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/  #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Curtis Wilkerson for a rapid reaction to 7-footer Maper Maker's commitment to John Calipari and Arkansas basketball! OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace, host Curtis Wilkerson takes a closer look into the games of a pair of overseas big men connected to Arkansas by a top international scout before wrapping with some SEC Coaches Power Rankings. OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A chairlift bike park in the Ozarks sounds like a wild idea until you hear how Oz Trails Bike Park was actually built: carefully, deliberately, and for everyone. We're joined by Brandon Kelly, director of Bella Vista, and Gary Vernon, who runs the bike park day to day, to share the story behind the park's long path from rumor to ribbon cutting, with the grand opening set for June 12.We get practical about what a day looks like at the park, from rolling into the base area to loading your bike on the lift, cruising to the top, and choosing trails by skill level. Gary explains how they focused on families and first-timers without watering down the experience for serious riders, including a standout beginner trail called Firestarter that's designed to build confidence fast. We also talk about what makes this a true destination beyond riding: the Oz Trails HQ building, Ozzy's Ride and Dine restaurant, and a full setup for bike rentals, retail, and bike school, so you can arrive with almost nothing and still have a great day.Not a rider? You're still invited. We dig into lift rides for sightseeing, ADA accessibility, patio views of the action, and the way the park preserves the natural beauty of Bella Vista's old-growth forest, limestone bluffs, and deep ravines. We also touch on the Whistler connection through Gravity Logic, why the trails will keep evolving, and how Bella Vista vacation rentals plus Bentonville's downtown make trip planning easy across both towns.If you're curious about Northwest Arkansas mountain biking, family-friendly bike parks, or the next big outdoor attraction in Bella Vista, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a riding buddy, and leave a review so more people can find the show! A New American Town is here to help you plan your trip to Bentonville, Arkansas. From guides, events, and restaurant highlights. Find all this and more at visitbentonville.com and subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn.  You can listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, CastBox, Podcast Casts, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Podcast Addict.  

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - Gonzaga-Kentucky cancellation good for Hogs? - Latest on Leek's decision - Billy back barring late change? - Big man quick hits - 2027 Recruiting Big Board Reveal OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live entertainment looks effortless until you are the one standing in the center of a stadium with twenty thousand people watching you. The difference between a seamless fan experience and an absolute disaster class in front of a packed arena comes down to split-second ad-libbing. Whether it is managing a corporate-sponsored game on the court or keeping a crowd engaged during a timeout, live media requires a distinct level of comfort with chaos. Today the B Team sits down with Northwest Arkansas media staple Jon Williams to unpack what it really takes to hold the microphone for major regional events and the Arkansas Razorbacks.We get into the reality of working under modern fan engagement strategies implemented by forward-thinking athletic directors. Jon shares the logistics behind parallel media careers, balancing corporate partner obligations for heavy-hitters like Whataburger and Zips Car Wash against his own independent projects. We cover the cognitive dissonance that happens when regular people try to play simple games like mid-court tic-tac-toe under stadium lights, alongside the exact division of labor required to keep a local radio show thriving for two decades. Jon details his specific philosophy on separating backend station imaging from frontend advertising sales to ensure long-term business harmony.The unglamorous truth of regional broadcasting is that public failure is part of the job description. Jon opens up about the universal experience of athletic performance anxiety, sharing hilarious personal history about choking on legendary courts from high school gymnasiums to Madison Square Garden. Navigating a thirty-two-year career in the public eye means learning how to roll with the unpredictable nature of live audiences, uncooperative contestants, and the high-stakes pressure of representing major university brands. Listeners will walk away with a grounded perspective on true professional collaboration and a reminder that even seasoned veterans have hit the bottom of the backboard.

In this week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we're talking with award winning chef Matthew Cooper about his newest restaurant, Ryn, which is almost a year old – but before we get to him?!?! FOOD NEWS!! How about we kick it off with some BREAKING NEWS! Bistro 16 will be closing at the end of the month in preparations for a move to Rogers as Bienvenue. Nosh Nola will also be opening a new spot. We'll hear from both owners about how their moves are related!! You can now order and get Onyx from the sidewalk at the Bentonville Square out of the Bentoville space. Speaking of Bentoville, we'll have an update. We have a slew of grand openings coming up in June 1st in Rogers, including the Protein House, PJ's Coffee , and Ozark Charcuterie. We have an update on the Dave's Hot Chicken going up in the Summit Shopping Center by PJ's. Handel's Ice Cream is looking close in Fayetteville. A smashburger ghost kitchen? One is coming. Moonhouse in Fayetteville is closed... for now. Home Grown is coming to South Yard in Fayetteville. Herman's is still closed in Fayetteville. What's up with Proving Grounds Coffee? Darwin Beyer of Meiji and Chuo Izakaya has one of my most favorite Mike Engleman Home Pro Tips of the Week, and it's this week's Flavors Flashback! Chef Matt Cooper had been planning Ryn for a while. In fact, he was planning Ryn before Conifer, and he'll tell us why and the story behind it. He'll also talk about Ryn's sustainable hospitality, and how there it's fueled by a crop to kitchen concept with Sun Painted Farm being just behind the restaurant. Speaking of, how hard is it to plan a farm around a restaurant menu? Or is it vice-versa? Finally, he'll talk about a documentary that he's involved with, and it's all here on the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast!  

In this episode, Cal visits with Gabe Wight from Northwest Arkansas about building a profitable grazing operation while simplifying life and focusing on long-term stewardship. Gabe shares how he reduced his herd size from several hundred cows to around forty cows and how that shift dramatically changed his grazing management, stress level, and profitability. Gabe discusses lessons learned from overgrazing, why stock density matters, and how smaller herds allowed him to improve pasture recovery, calf performance, and equipment longevity. The conversation also covers rotational grazing design, water placement, erosion challenges, fertilizer decisions, chicken litter, stockpiling forage, and managing grazing through seasonal changes. The discussion shifts into cattle genetics, breeding strategies, marketing calves through value-added programs, direct-to-consumer beef sales, and the importance of focusing on profitability instead of comparison with neighboring operations. Gabe also shares how his curiosity, podcasts, feed store conversations, and modern AI tools help him continue learning and improving his operation. Topics Covered Downsizing a cow herd for profitability  Flashlight farming and balancing off-farm work  Rotational grazing management  Recovering from overgrazing  Designing paddocks and water systems  Stockpiling forage for winter grazing  Fertility management and fertilizer decisions  Using chicken litter on pastures  Cattle genetics and replacement strategies  Selling calves through value-added programs  Direct-to-consumer beef experiences  Learning from podcasts, books, and AI tools  Managing grazing in Northwest ArkansasFind Out MoreHerd Advisor Looking for grass-based breeders? Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture Grassroots CarbonGrazing Grass LinksWebsiteCommunity (on Facebook)Original Music by Louis Palfrey

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - Jeff Borzello's interesting thoughts on Meleek Thomas and Billy Richmond - Analytical ceiling and floor based on stay-or-go decisions - Has Arkansas found its Morez Johnson/Najai Hines archetype in stock rising potential re-class big man? OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level. Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more. Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further. This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49. Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ! From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits. They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing. INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chad and Daniel are joined by Erick Sorenson and Dr Rob Solberg live from Here We Still Stand, Northwest Arkansas, to discuss his work on pronomian theology. Have a listen. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education  What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Daniel Emery Price Chad Bird

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - How good are the rest of the 5's in the SEC? - How many bigs has Arkansas REALLY missed out on? - Where updated mock drafts and big boards have Thomas/Richmond - How much will it cost to retain Meleek Thomas? - NEW OFFER ALERT: Electric 5-star guard King Gibson OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - Why NBA franchises are desperate for prospects like Meleek Thomas and Billy Richmond to stay in draft - Resolution coming soon for Micah Handlogten? - Beckham Black: BIG Priority - Calipari dishes out two weekend offers - Don't write off Isaiah Sealy! OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks will be hosting the 18th Annual Chefs in the Garden next Tuesday, and we hear all about it from Executive Director Ashley Wardlow and Director of Sales & Events, Nina Estes. We'll hear about who will benefit from the night, we'll hear about some of the chefs and restaurants that will be there and what folks will be voting on. That's in this Special Edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast!

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - Brazile has big scrimmage at combine! - Stay or pro notes and nuggets - Hogs linked to overseas big… for a minute - 5 EYBL ballers to watch this weekend OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bentonville Bikefest didn't get big by only talking to bike people. We're joined by Kenny Belaey, world champion trials athlete, Red Bull athlete, and the founder of Bentonville Bikefest, to explain how a week of riding in Northwest Arkansas turns into something closer to a true festival: races, exhibits, demos, kids zones, and a constant nudge to stop spectating and start participating.We dig into what Kenny saw early on that made Bentonville different from other mountain bike destinations. The trails and the Razorback Greenway matter, but so does the unique concentration of corporate brands and suppliers in the region. Kenny shares how that sponsor ecosystem can fuel action sports the way mainstream brands fuel major leagues, helping Bikefest grow in production, reach, and ambition while still feeling welcoming and local.Then we get into what's new for year six, including Red Bull Double Down. Kenny breaks down the format: a BMX rider and a mountain biker drop in together, time their speed, cross mid-air, and bet it all on one jaw-dropping trick. We also talk about why e-bikes and cargo bikes belong at a bike festival, how coaching helps beginners get comfortable fast, and what we hope you take home: the sense that you might not need your car for every trip, plus the excitement of finding the right bike for your life.If you're planning a Bentonville trip, searching for a mountain bike festival, or just curious how a town becomes “bike-centered,” this conversation is your roadmap. Subscribe for more stories from our new American town, and if you enjoyed this one, share it with a friend and leave a review.A New American Town is here to help you plan your trip to Bentonville, Arkansas. From guides, events, and restaurant highlights. Find all this and more at visitbentonville.com and subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn.  You can listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, CastBox, Podcast Casts, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Podcast Addict.  

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - Billy Richmond & Trevon Brazile combine scrimmage notes - Cautious optimism on a Meleek Thomas return? - Acuff gives Arkansas recruiting assist - Making the case for two overseas bigs on opposite ends of Calipari's spectrum OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bentonville nightlife is about to see a significant shift as the gap between family-friendly dining and late-night entertainment finally closes. For too long, the local scene has lacked a dedicated space for groups to gather without the chaos of a traditional bar or the limitations of early closing times. In this episode, we sit down with Justin Urso, the co-founder of Big Box Karaoke, to discuss how he is bringing a proven, high-energy business model from Fayetteville to the heart of Bentonville.We sit down to explore the tactical side of scaling an entertainment brand and the logistics of building out a 3,500-square-foot space in the historic Ice House building. The conversation covers the nuances of Asian-style private suite karaoke, the strategy behind room-specific brand partnerships, and the launch of the Summer Mic League. Justin explains his unique philosophy on community integration, detailing how his business has already funneled over $50,000 back into local nonprofits and schools through creative "Sing for a Cause" events.The unglamorous truth of the hospitality industry involves navigating strict permitting timelines and the high stakes of 2:00 a.m. closing times in a town that typically sleeps early. Viewers will walk away with a better understanding of how to differentiate a service-based business in a crowded market and why personal brand values are the strongest foundation for local growth. It takes more than just a good song list to build a destination; it takes a commitment to local sourcing and a deep understanding of the customer's desire for privacy and exclusivity.If you care about local business growth, innovative marketing through sponsorships, and the evolution of the Northwest Arkansas entertainment landscape, you'll get a lot from this. Be sure to Subscribe and Share this episode with anyone looking to understand the future of the Bentonville Square. What is your go-to karaoke song that you would only sing behind the closed doors of a private suite? Leave your answer in the comments below.

In this week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we're in Rogers at Toot Beirut talking with Owner & Chef Khalid Alkatib and Manager Tony Van Waning, but before we hear from them?!?! FOOD NEWS!!! Memo's Taco Shop is coming to Springdale! We'll tell you where! Las Palmas on Sunset has closed, but it's only temporary. We'll tell you why! Say goodbye to Applebee's in Springdale. It's a wrap for Feltner's Watta Burger. Taste of Rogers happens this week. We'll tell you when! Strawberry Fest happens this weekend in downtown Fayetteville! Bites on B Street happens Saturday in Bentonville. We'll tell you about it! In this week's Flavors Flashback, we hear from Paula Jo Chitty Henry about starting the first food truck in Bentonville. You know it as Crepes Paulette! Khalid Alkatib is from a family of restauranteurs. He moved to Northwest Arkansas and immediately opened a restaurant, where he prides himself on the authenticity of their Middle Eastern food. How did he end up in NWA? Oh, and do you want to see something impressive? Look at their google reviews. Few in our area can boast what they've got. He'll talk about the early days of putting together the menu as well as what's most popular on it. We hear from Khalid Alkatib and Toot Beirut Manager Tony Van Waning next here on the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast.

Join Andrew Ellis and Cameron Green on a live stream edition of The Baumbastic Podcast as they get you geared up for the Arkansas Razorbacks' regular season finale against Kentucky in Lexington! SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-... Terms apply. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- HD ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION Storms can hit unexpectedly, so be sure to contact HD Roofing for your peace of mind with a free inspection. When you choose HD Roofing, you can rely on professionalism, top-quality materials and expert installation for all of your roofing needs! Call their NWA office at 479-957-1928! Call their Central Arkansas office at 501-428-0429! Learn more at HDArkansas.com! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ! Cater any events-weddings, parties, etc Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing. https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- HICKEY & HULL LAW Divorce & custody cases are too important to try and face alone. Let Hickey & Hull Law provide you with persistent & diligent representation to help guide you through the entire process. They have handled THOUSANDS of family law cases & have experienced nearly every scenario that may come up. Hickey & Hull Law have offices across the state of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Little Rock, & Mena. You can call them today at 479-434-2414 or you can check out their website! Visit www.hickeyandhull.com! It's Hickey & Hull Law…Things Are About To Get Better! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- FIGHT HOUSE GYM Check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level. Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49. Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 to step inside… and bring the fight! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALUMNI HALL 3417 N College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703 479-435-6352 www.insidearkansas.com/alumnihall The best and largest selection of Razorback gear Apparel for the family - mens, womens, kids, pets too Razorback apparel, accessories, hats, Yeti, gifts - Alumni Hall has it all Hall Pass Rewards - Earn points with your purchases and get rewarded! Once you've spent $150 (which is easy to do), you'll get $10 off your next purchase We know some of you are big time athletes so for our friends that shop the big and tall Hogs gear - shop today at www.insidearkansas.com/alumnihall Alumni Hall - The ultimate Razorback shopping destination! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - Big day for Big Bill at combine - Leek's testing screams return to school. Will he? - Solid day at the office for Darius Acuff - Strong showing from Trevon Brazile - Hogs holding firm with Handlogten - 10 international bigs who could help Arkansas OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the IDOIQ Podcast, Brock and DJ Jon sit down with Kennedy and Morgan, the powerhouse duo behind Social Seats NWA, a fast-growing event rental business in Northwest Arkansas.What started as a simple need for birthday party chairs quickly turned into a full-blown business—complete with tables, linens, tents, and even custom wedding setups. In just a short time, they've gone from loading chairs in a pickup truck to supplying weddings and events across the region.They break down: How a $75 chair rental sparked a full business idea  The biggest mistakes couples make with seating and layout  Why chairs and tables are the most overlooked part of weddings  The real difference between basic rentals vs full-service setup  How trends impact inventory (and why they avoid risky ones)  The shift from backyard parties to full-scale weddings  Their long-term vision of becoming a full-service event planning company Plus, they share hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, vendor chaos moments, and practical advice for making your event look polished without blowing your budget.If you're planning an event—or thinking about starting a business—this episode is packed with real-world insight, creativity, and a little entrepreneurial grit.

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: - Acuff silences “Draft Twitter” on combine testing day - One measurement that “might” give Razorback fans hope for retaining Meleek Thomas - Does having a big-time big man REALLY matter? - Credit to Calipari's elite under-the-radar portal pickup OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/ #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SummaryEver thought about what's missing from your community—and what could happen if you decided to fill that gap yourself? That question is at the heart of Ozark Float Park, the innovative family-friendly business featured in the latest episode of the Startup Junkies podcast. In a region known for its outdoor spirit, Michael Barron saw an opportunity: despite Northwest Arkansas's wealth of natural settings and active families, the area was missing a float or aqua park—a modular, inflatable obstacle course on a lake designed for all ages.Michael shares his story with hosts Caleb Talley and Ty Steele, describing the moment inspiration struck during a California heatwave and how moving to Arkansas crystallized his idea. The conversation, filled with practical advice and honest reflections, dives deep into the early days of building a business on the side while managing a full-time career. Michael talks through the process of turning a dream into reality: researching local resources, finding support in Arkansas's startup ecosystem, and navigating everything from risk-aversion to operational logistics.What sets this episode apart is the genuine sense of possibility threaded throughout, especially for anyone wondering if their side-hustle could become something bigger. Michael discusses not just the vision for Ozark Float Park, but the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, offering encouragement for would-be founders to take that first, sometimes scary, step. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a fan of creative problem solving, this episode is a celebration of community, innovation, and family fun!Show Notes(00:00) Realizing a Market Opportunity(03:45) Designing Eco-Friendly Outdoor Adventures(08:03) Discovering Support in Startup Ecosystems(11:39) Creating Fun Experiences for Families(16:10) Hiring Strategies for Summer Operations(22:33) Planning a Float Park Expansion(24:40) Overcoming Fear of New Ideas(27:13) Closing ThoughtsLinksCaleb TalleyTy SteeleStartup JunkieStartup Junkie YouTubeMichael BarronOzark Float ParkSponsored by Bank of America

About the Show:"My sense of identity as an American never was as pronounced as it was when I was overseas." – Jamie AtkinsonSome people find Northwest Arkansas. Jamie Atkinson chose it after seeing most of the world first.Before planting roots in the region, Jamie Atkinson spent years as a U.S. Foreign Service officer, living and working across more than 55 countries—Argentina, Nicaragua, Bulgaria, Bolivia, the Czech Republic, and beyond. Along the way, he discovered that Delta blues music wasn't just something he loved — it was a universal language that opened doors, built trust, and connected him to people across cultures and continents. Now back in the U.S. and deeply invested in Northwest Arkansas, Jamie joins me on the podcast to talk about what it means to carry your roots with you around the world, why this corner of the Ozarks convinced his family to stay, and how a lifetime of service is shaping what comes next.Key Takeaways:Music is a Bridge: Delta blues connected people in Argentina, Bolivia, and the American South—showing that music can bring cultures together.Importance of Perspective: Living overseas gave Jamie Atkinson a deeper appreciation for being American and for appreciating other cultures.Building Community: Investing in Northwest Arkansas is about more than property—it's about relationships, teamwork, and belonging.Local Roots with Global Experience: Jamie Atkinson's experience in the Foreign Service taught him to listen, compromise, and find common ground—skills he brings to community leadership.Giving Back: Returning home, Jamie Atkinson seeks to serve his adopted community through both local business and public service.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcastImportant Links and Mentions on the Show*Website: Jamie for ArkansasReach Jamie Atkinson on social: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedInMusic Education Initiative (Orson Weems)Fayetteville Public LibraryPryor Center Juke JointFindItNWA.com NWA's Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedInThank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest ArkansasMentioned in this episode:Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"FindItNWA.comLooking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas?

On today's episode of The Pod At The Palace with Curtis Wilkerson: Future Pro Hogs headed to NBA Draft Combine Billy & Leek watch reaches critical stage Optics at play in Malique Ewin situation Handlogten or… who? OFFICIAL MERCH: https://insidearkansas.myshopify.com/  #arkansas #razorbacks #football #basketball #baseball #sampittman #johncalipari SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS: BET SARACEN Arkansas' #1 Sports Betting App! Click link below & use code INSIDEAR250 so when you bet $25, get $250 BONUS! https://sportsbook.betsaracen.com/en-us/sports/mma?referrer=singular_click_id%3Dbc1b71ae-56d0-4f58-9775-c5bd8f6676e9 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Northwest Arkansas, are you ready to fight? Then you have to check out the NEW Fight House Gym, Northwest Arkansas' #1 boxing, MMA, and strength training gym—built for athletes, competitors, and anyone ready to push their limits! From high-energy boxing and MMA training to free weights, elite cardio equipment, sleds, and cross-training, Fight House Gym delivers everything you need to train at the highest level.  Push your body to the edge, then recover like a pro with our cold plunge and saunas designed to keep you strong and ready for more.  Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting your fitness journey, this is the gym that meets you where you are and pushes you further.  This isn't just a gym—it's a mindset. Fight House Gym is now open at 10131 Webb Way in Fayetteville, Exit 58 off I-49.  Sign up today at fighthousegym.com or call 951-623-9745 and step inside… and bring the fight. OZK INSURANCE One thing that really sets OZK Insurance apart is this — they're an independent insurance agency. That means they're not tied to just one company. They shop a multitude of A-rated carriers to find the best coverage and price for you — and now, they've paired that with something you don't usually see from an independent agency… a full-service mobile app. With the OZK Insurance App, you can see all your policies under one roof — home, auto, whatever you have — plus pay bills, request roadside assistance, file claims, request policy changes, or even get new quotes, all from your phone. So you get the best part of an independent agent — choice, flexibility, real people — and the convenience of modern tech. If you're tired of being stuck with one carrier or chasing down paperwork, go to OZKInsurance.com or search OZK Insurance in the App Store or Google Play. Local agency. National-level options. One powerful app. That's OZK Insurance. BLUE EMBER SMOKEHOUSE Blue Ember Smokehouse is a family owned smokehouse specializing in handcrafted BBQ!  From tender brisket to home cooked sides, you'll find a hearty meal for every member of the family. They operate the Blue Ember way, buying only the highest quality meats, applying their signature blend of spices and slowly smoking in their wood-only pits.  They allow the meats to rest to ensure optimal tenderness and cut in front of the customer to provide transparency and satisfaction in every bite! Blue Ember also caters any events! Weddings, parties, business meetings, any gathering where a group of people need to be fed amazing BBQ, Blue Ember has you covered! Please contact individual stores for more info and specific pricing.  INSIDE ARKANSAS WILL BE LIVE AT ROGERS LOCATION THE 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH! https://www.blueembersmokehouse.com/ West Little Rock-(501) 448-2886 Hot Springs-(501) 431-0574 Jonesboro-(870) 933-7058 Fort Smith-(479) 551-2999 Rogers-(479) 335-2170 Texarkana-(903) 832-1937 Thank you for supporting your local Blue Ember Smokehouse! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful in-studio episode of Kingdom Crossroads, host T.S. Wright sits down with Stephanie Haley to explore her deeply personal testimony and her active role in the Joppa House of Prayer in Northwest Arkansas.Stephanie shares her journey from growing up in a fundamentalist church environment to developing a genuine, intimate relationship with God. Though she always sensed God's presence, her understanding of salvation and surrender unfolded over time—culminating in a transformative commitment to Christ during her youth.Her story includes seasons of challenge, including family tension over her faith, major life transitions, and ultimately being led by God to Arkansas—where her ministry would take root.Today, Stephanie serves in multiple leadership and ministry roles at Joppa House of Prayer, including:Board member and secretaryWorship and soaking prayer facilitatorSocial media and livestream coordinatorDeliverance and freedom prayer ministry team memberShe discusses the heart behind Joppa House—a ministry centered on worship, prayer, and listening to the Holy Spirit. From “Soaking Saturdays” to interactive prayer gatherings, the focus is on cultivating God's presence and transforming lives and communities.Stephanie also emphasizes identity in Christ, highlighting scriptures such as:God's lavish love that calls us His childrenThe truth that nothing can separate us from His presenceThe conversation concludes with a call to action: pursue authentic prayer communities locally and engage deeply with God beyond traditional church settings.Key TopicsTestimony of salvation and spiritual growthOvercoming religious tradition to find true relationship with GodThe power of mentorship and spiritual coveringWorship as a lifestyle, not just an eventThe role of prayer houses in regional transformationIdentity in Christ and spiritual intimacyMinistry HighlightJoppa House of Prayer (Northwest Arkansas)Weekly gatherings: Tuesday & Friday nightsMonthly “Soaking Saturday” worship sessionsLive streaming available via FacebookFocus: Worship, prayer, and Holy Spirit-led ministryCall to ActionConnect with a local prayer community—or start oneEngage in deeper personal worship and time with GodPartner with what God is doing in your regionCheck out this link to view Kingdom Cross Roads on TV.https://jesussaid.tv/?affiliate=tswright_gccTo get a copy of our new book "Embracing the Truth" or to have TS Wright speak at your event or conference or if you simply want spiritual or life coaching or just a consultation visit:www.tswrightspeaks.comVisit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation.www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.

We're gearing up for the second edition of RYDB Fest in Fayetteville, AR. In today's episode, we're breaking down everything you can expect this year. So what is RYDB Fest? A bike festival? An ultra-cycling race? A friendly bikepacking overnighter? The answer is: yes. RYDB Fest is an open invitation to ride your damn bike, any damn way you want. Built by the bikepacking community, for bikepackers of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. Everyone is welcome to play bikes with us in NW Arkansas! In today's episode, you'll hear from the team and supporters behind RYDB Fest as we get ready to welcome you to Northwest Arkansas for a full weekend of Bikes… or Death. RYDB Fest is brought to you by Ozark Gravel Cyclists and Bikes or Death, with help from key partners and friends who are making this whole thing happen. Expect grassroots vibes, strong community turnout, and some of the best damn bike riding in Arkansas. ~Show Notes ~ More info about RYDB Fest click HERE Register for the Fayetteville Ultra Circuit HERE **Use code FUCBOD at checkout for $15 off reg Register for the Bikepacking Overnighter HERE **Use code bod_rydb_26 for 20% off reg Find out more about the Wander Outdoor Adventure HUB HERE Suppor the show on PATREON 

Today's guest would love to add more four and five-star picks to her reading list and she's curious about techniques that might help get her there. Kelly Krause is a first grade teacher who lives in Northwest Arkansas with her family. When Kelly discovers a winning author, it feels like a slam dunk to read the rest of their work. But when it comes to branching out in new directions, Kelly is not as confident. She's wondering whether devoting more time to reflecting on her reads by analyzing what's worked well or practicing the art of writing book reviews will help her pick more winning titles. Anne can't wait to explore this with Kelly today, along with sharing titles and authors Kelly may enjoy. Find the list of titles mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/520. Our 15th Summer Reading Guide is coming your way next month! Creating this guide each year is truly a labor of love. Our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club and What Should I Read Next? Patreon community members are automatically invited, and we'll also be offering our popular a la carte ticket. To make sure you get the 15th anniversary edition in your inbox and to find out how to join us for our live unboxing event, visit modernmrsdarcy.com/srg. Chapters 02:25 Meet Kelly 04:47 Kelly's reading dilemma 07:09 The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times by Jane Goodall and Douglas Abrams 08:44 The Kitchen Front by Jennifer Ryan 10:04 The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo 12:27 The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley 28:06 The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali 35:35 Kate & Frida by Kim Fay 38:58 Grief Cottage by Gail Godwin 50:29 What will Kelly read next? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices