Podcasts about paragould

This week on The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Stephen Pace, a School Resource Officer in Paragould with an incredible story and a heart for the next generation. Before serving in law enforcement, Stephen was:

In this episode, we sit down with Coach Mitchell Weber, the new head coach of the Paragould High School girls basketball team. After a successful coaching stint at Brookland and with deep roots in Paragould, Coach Webber shares why this move felt like a homecoming — and what excites him most about leading this program. We dive into his coaching philosophy centered on relationships, grit, discipline, and passion, and how those values extend far beyond the court. Coach Webber shares how the lessons learned through team sports—like working hard, staying focused, showing up for others, and never quitting—carry over into every aspect of life: from marriage and parenting to the workplace and personal pursuits. If there's one phrase that characterizes Coach Weber's personality: it's a humble, curious passion for continuous improvement.  If you care about developing character in the next generation—or just want a dose of motivation for your own journey—you'll want to hear this one.

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Brendan Baldridge has faithfully served Paragould for over 30 years, wearing many hats to help build a community that's both safe and beautiful. In this episode, we explore two key areas of his work: supervising Code Enforcement and coordinating the city's Sex Offender Registry. Brendan shares why he's so committed to the well-being of Paragould — from maintaining clean, safe neighborhoods to protecting the vulnerable through diligent offender tracking. He even tells an unforgettable story of rescuing a baby 15 years ago — a powerful reminder of the kind of moments that shape a career in public service.

Jeff Morton is a Paragould basketball legend whose all-time scoring record stood for over 15 years. But in this episode, we go deeper than stats. Jeff joins us alongside his daughter, Journi Versie, a rising star from Marked Tree and the first Lady Indian to notch 1,000 points AND 1,000 rebounds. Journie had 35 scholarship offers, but chose nearby Williams Baptist University to continue basketball into college.  From stories of hardwood glory to hilarious memories of the Paragould Championship Wrestling league (yes, you read that right), this episode is full of laughs, legacy, and love. We talk adoption, finding your identity in a family and on a team, and what it means to chase excellence without losing who you are.

This week we wrap up our six-part series looking at recruiting students for your band program as Nick Averwater continues his conversation with Brent Hopper, Nathan Anderson, and Brandan Bakkala. Brent is Middle School Band Director at Lakeland Preparatory School in Lakeland, TN, which is a town of around 14,000 located just northeast of Memphis. Nathan is a band director at Greene County Tech in Paragould, a city of 30,000 in northeast Arkansas. Brandan is Band Director at Valley View High School in Jonesboro, which is the fifth largest city in the Arkansas, with a population of just over 80,000, and is also located in the northeastern part of the state.In this episode we'll find out how these educators successfully work with school administration, fellow teachers, and especially counselors, to make sure deadlines are met and schedules are set. They'll also tell us how they communicate with parents and students directly, to let them know more about the band program.Our conversation was recorded January 3, 2025. We've broken it up into two episodes, and this is part two.

On this episode of the Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Meteorologist Ryan Vaughan to unpack the March 14th tornado that hit Paragould and Cave City. We talk about what happened that day, how tornadoes work, and what we can all learn to be more prepared. Ryan also gives us a look ahead at the upcoming severe weather threats and how to stay alert and informed. This conversation is practical, insightful, and timely—especially for those of us living in tornado-prone areas. Don't miss it!

This week we continue with episode five of our six-part series looking at recruiting students for your band program as Nick Averwater talks with Brent Hopper, Nathan Anderson, and Brandan Bakkala. Brent is Middle School Band Director at Lakeland Preparatory School in Lakeland, TN, which is a town of around 14,000 located just northeast of Memphis. Nathan is a band director at Greene County Tech in Paragould, a city of 30,000 in northeast Arkansas. Brandan is Band Director at Valley View High School in Jonesboro, which is the fifth largest city in the Arkansas, with a population of just over 80,000, and is also located in the northeastern part of the state.In this episode we'll learn about the similar ways in which these directors begin thinking about recruiting for next year on the first day of school in the current year. They'll also tell us about the ways they use short videos and social media to reach out to potential band members.Our conversation was recorded January 3, 2025. We've broken it up into two episodes, and this is part one.

In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Hancock—local pharmacist, owner of Walden Drug, and president of the Paragould Schools School Board—to talk about two areas that directly impact our community: healthcare and education. Jeremy shares insights into the state of healthcare in Paragould, including the biggest medical challenges people face and how independent pharmacies differ from big chains. We also dive into the complexities of "big pharma" and how policies like Arkansas Bill HB1150 are shaping the future of local pharmacies and patient care. As the president of the Paragould Schools School Board, Jeremy also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to serve in this role, the challenges and rewards of leading in public education, and exciting developments ahead for the Paragould School District. This is a must-listen conversation for anyone interested in healthcare, education, or the future of our city.  For more information on HB1150, visit https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1150&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R

If you've been in Paragould much, you've probably heard of Ronnie Cook. Ronnie is a local legend as the biggest Paragould Ram's Super Fan this city has ever seen. We were honored with the opportunity to sit down with Ronnie to discuss why he loves the Rams so much, how GCT won his loyalties for a while, and what his interests are outside of Rams sports. You won't want to miss this episode of the Paragould Podcast! 

With decades of experience in the media industry, Dina Mason has been blazing a trail for women to be in positions of leadership from Checotah, OK to Paragould, AR! Dina is the General Manager of MOR Media, which runs the NEA Premiere Magazine, Jack FM, Jill FM, and iRock 103!

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Richard Johnson, President of Crowley's Ridge College in Paragould, AR. Since 2020, Dr. Johnson has led this remarkable Christian institution, combining over 35 years of experience in ministry, fundraising, and higher education leadership. Learn about the unique mission of Crowley's Ridge College and how it serves as a hidden gem in Christian education.   Learn more about Crowley's Ridge College https://crc.edu   Freed-Hardeman University invites you to join them on February 11th-13th for a seminar entitled What Every Church Leader and Behavioral Health Professional Needs to Know About Sexuality and Ministry.    For more information and to register, you can email gradstudies@fhu.edu.   Invest in yourself at Freed-Hardeman University. https://www.fhu.edu/dearchurch     Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #ChristianEducation #CrowleysRidgeCollege #DrRichardJohnson #ChristianLeadership #FaithBasedEducation #DearChurchPodcast #HigherEducation #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianCollege

Auto parts maker Tenneco announced that it would cease operations and permanently close a 55-year-old plant in Paragould, Arkansas, local television station K8 News reported.The company informed the facility's workers of their impending layoffs on January 14. Online news source NEAReport.com obtained a letter to the employees that said the company will conduct the closure and permanent layoffs in three phases around March 31, April 15 and April 30, with no bumping rights currently in place.

Mayor Josh Agee and County Judge Rusty McMillon have set an incredible example of collaboration and unity in leadership, working together to create a thriving and connected community here in Paragould and Greene County. In this episode, we'll explore what makes their partnership so unique, diving into how their agencies work hand-in-hand to address challenges, seize opportunities, and build a brighter future for our area. From infrastructure improvements to fostering economic growth and enhancing community programs, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes their teamwork so effective—and why it's such a special asset to our community.

Blake Ligon grew up in a small town called Marvell, AR and had never heard of Paragould. After interning at Bellevue Baptist in Memphis, he was offered a role at Central Baptist Jonesboro. A few years later, with the wisdom of his wife in hand, he would go on to plant Central Baptist Church, Paragould. His passion, character, and authenticity has led him to be deeply loved by his congregation. 

A compilation of seven unique interviews about homes and buildings in Paragould, AR that are allegedly haunted! FYI, nothing is explicit in this episode, but do take care when listening around children as the stories can definitely be spooky.  Interviewees include Angelica Gray, Judge Dan Stidham, Hailey Byrd, Judge Randy Philhours, Pricilla Jones, Jon Fulkerson with Meredith Smith, and finally Gabriel Cook. Happy Halloween!

Adam Butler grew up in Paragould in a family of athletes. A sports fanatic himself, Adam was not able to play organized sports because he was born with Cerebral Palsy. We learn of how he channels that competitive nature into his career as a successful attorney here in Paragould. 

Laramie LeQuieu moved to Paragould from Benton, AR in 1992, spending his formative teenage years here as a student of Ridgecrest high school and a pastors kid. He was on staff at Marmaduke Baptist Church when the tornado came through in 2006. He now pastors Harvest Baptist Church. 

Kiwanis Club president and Shelter Insurance Agent, Ty Sims joined the show to talk about how he came to Paragould, the role sports played in his life growing up, how he started a Shelter Insurance agency, Lumberjacks baseball, and much more! 

Since 1987, Jeff Evans has been a public servant as an EMT and Paramedic. He joined the show to talk to us about how he got to where he is, what it takes to be a good paramedic, and more. 

Pete Cancilla is known as one of the more successful realtors in Paragould as his Image Realty “Team Can-Sell-It” can be seen all over town. However, his journey to get there was not easy. Join us for this conversation about how his family got to Arkansas when he was a child, life lessons he's learned, and how he's been able to rebound from various trials. 

The Get Downtown Festival has been growing year after year! If you haven't been to the festival or been downtown recently, now's the time to plan your visit for October 4-5th for the Get Downtown Festival! Allison Hestand joined us to talk about her role with the Chamber of Commerce, all the good that's taking place around Paragould, and this wonderful festival! 

Send us a Text Message.This week, we take a step out on new territory and bring the podcast to you from the Final Drive Futurity & Rumble on the Ridge jackpot show in Paragould, Arkansas, as Josh traveled there to judge and preach. This episode we will look to answer the question - Who is the true Jesus?

Bob Branch returns for a record tying 4th visit, 3rd this year! He gives us a beautiful, detailed oral history of the City of Paragould. Mr. Branch spends hours doing research at the Greene County Historical and Genealogical Society to back up his memory with all the proper dates and names. On this episode he goes block by block to teach us about Paragould's history. One gem: Paragould had multiple Ice Houses that delivered blocks of ice to homes across the city because they did not have refrigeration. Blocks of ice would last 2-3 days!

Jason Gazaway has spent the last 24 years bringing great businesses to help grow Paragould. He said he even spent 15 years asking on particular business to come and soon we'll be able to find out who that is because they're finally coming. Listen to this podcast to gain an appreciation for the hard work that goes into bringing all your favorites to a small town like ours. 

From worldwide tours with his band to a passion for leadership in owning some of the best Freddy's franchise locations in the county, we had a lot to talk about this week with Aaron Elms. Aaron is an incredible musician who toured for over a decade with Kingsdown, an NEA based band from the early 2000's. Six years ago, after his touring days were over, he found himself in a position to open the first Freddy's location in Batesville, AR, and now with Paragould's location coming under his leadership last week, he is a partner in four Arkansas Freddy's restaurants. His operating owner here in Paragould is a testament to his determination to raise up leaders to meet or exceed their own expectations.

On this week's Can Crushers Spotlight, Mark "The Mark" is graced by the presence of Bam Bam Baker! This episode does not go well for Mark, as Baker just teaches him life lessons to be a better human. B3 shares stories about Tracy Smothers, growing up in a wrestling family, and what his greatest achievement has been thus far in his career... along with so much more. As the podcast wraps up Mark releases a huge match that was signed right after the recording of this interview, it will be Bam Bam Baker versus EC3 for the NWA Heavyweight Championship on July 12 in Paragould, Arkansas. Get your tickets for July 12 at the link below https://www.scaredcityproductions.com ⁠⁠WWE Shop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Collar X Elbow - The Wrestling Brand⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use promo code CanCrushers to save 10% ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Can Crushers Merch Store⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dubby Energy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use promo code CANCRUSHERS to save 10% --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mark-martinez37/message

Black River Technical College has been growing in recent years and Brad Baine joined us to talk about why that is and how every citizen in Paragould can partake in some of the awesome classes they offer on their campus or at the new GIN in Downtown Paragould. 

People say often that Greene County is progressing in a lot of positive ways. This new position to ensure employees of the county are being cared for is just another way we can highlight that Paragould is a great place to live! In this episode we meet Lexy Allbritton and learn how her role is serving the employees of the county.

Bob Branch's stories of Paragould and Greene County history are so beloved that our fans have asked for more! So in a unique turn of events, Mr. Branch has returned to the studio for the second time in one month! In this episode, he gives us 10 snapshots of life growing up in Paragould during the Great Depression era, as well as what it was like to have himself and several brothers fight in wars overseas. 

Bob Branch's stories of Paragould and Greene County history are so beloved that our fans have asked for more! So in a unique turn of events, Mr. Branch has returned to the studio for the second time in one month! In this episode, he gives us 10 snapshots of life growing up in Paragould during the Great Depression era, as well as what it was like to have himself and several brothers fight in wars overseas. 

Brian Shiro is a Paragould native whose extensive accomplishments include working for NASA, NOAA, and is currently the Deputy Director of United States Geological Survey Geological Hazards Science Center. If that sounds like a mouthful, no worries as Brian helps us understand how his study of earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanos are important to the future of Mars exploration.  Twice Brian has been classified as highly qualified to become an astronaut and a project he worked on years ago was used in the Mars InSight mission that recently completed its mission. We also talked running and how he became an Eagle Scout!

Lt. Buster Sexton is a lead detective with the Paragould Police Department. He is passionate about providing a safe space for his family and yours in Paragould. In this episode we talk with Buster about what it looks like to be a detective in Paragould, how many cases they work per year, and what we can do to help protect our own children. 

On April 2, Jared and Chris were honored with the opportunity to teach students from more than 10 NEA schools about podcasting. Each of this students were involved in the EAST Initiatives in their schools. EAST stands for Education Accelerated by Service and Technology, combining the tech interests of the students with the opportunity to address real world problems in their communities. We had the opportunity to demonstrate a real podcast recording with Paragould High School East Administrator, Stephanie Cooper. Enjoy this bonus episode and join us in wishing the best for these students who had some really great podcast ideas! 

Paragould Light & Water Commission v. FERC

Hamburger Station has been a staple in Paragould since 1925. It's been featured on TV shows, books, and countless articles. In 1998 Bert bought the restaurant from its previous owners. However, today's episode is about so much more than a hamburger. Bert opens up vulnerably to talk about a struggle with Alcohol addiction and how he just sought help in recovery. You won't want to miss this incredible episode of the Paragould Podcast. 

The Folding Chair podcast examines the case of Marshall Ray Price, who died after what officials say was a consensual boxing match with another inmate at Greene County Jail in Paragould, Arkansas in December 2022. We recently spoke with Price's daughter Julian about her fight for justice and decriminalization efforts. Marshall Ray Price died at a local hospital while in custody of the Greene County Sheriffs Department on December 8, 2022.  Price's injuries were said to be the result of a consensual boxing match in jail. The other “boxer” was said to have toilet paper and socks wrapped on his hands and hit Price twice. This is not consistent with witness testimony. Price died a very violent and painful death. The Sheriffs narrative and outcome is linked here give it a read yourselves. https://neareport.com/2023/03/14/no-charges-in-marshall-price-jail-death/ According to the coroner Price died of a ruptured spleen, multiple broken ribs, a brain stem injury and other injuries that are not consistent with a two punch boxing match. Price was only 2 weeks in on a 10 year sentence for possessing kratom, a supplement that's legal ten minutes from his home another state over. Witnesses in the jail said they heard Price calling for help for 5 hours before help arrived and the manner in which Price was treated by medical staff was cruel and inhumane. Price died before his family was even notified.   We believe possession of kratom should not result in prison time for anyone, kratom can be used for pain relief, management of opioid withdrawal, depression relief, mood enhancement, energy etc. Price was in possession of kratom to sober up after a 20 year addiction when he was arrested in Greene County, kratom is legal minutes away in Missouri. Mitragyna speciosa (commonly known as kratom, a herbal leaf from a tree of the Rubiaceae family is a tropical evergreen tree in the coffee family native to Southeast Asia. It is indigenous to Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea, where it has been used in herbal medicine since at least the 19th century. It has opioid properties and some stimulant effects. #KeepKratomSafe

Jeremiah 31.31-34, Psalm 51.1-12, Hebrews 5.5-10, John 12.20-33; Why does God make so many covenants? Is the church currently in exile? Is it okay to talk about judgment in worship? These questions and more on this episode of Strangely Warmed with guest Dane Womack. Dane serves as the pastor at First UMC in Paragould, Arkansas.Hosted by Taylor Mertins

Psalm 118.1-2, 19-29, Mark 11.1-11; Should we wear costumes to church? Is there such a thing as too many Hosannas? These questions and more on this episode of Strangely Warmed with guest Dane Womack. Dane serves as the pastor at First UMC in Paragould, Arkansas.Hosted by Taylor Mertins

Jimmy Dodd is on the podcast this week! It was special for us to have two legends in the Paragould Rams Sports Network family talking Paragould schools history, what it takes to be a great broadcaster, and the importance of school spirit. We hit on Doc Paynter and the new gym that Paragould will be building by fall of 2025. This is a great episode for Rams, Eagles, and Falcons fans alike!

Bill Phillips has experienced a lot of life in his nearly 90 years. For most of his life he has lived right here in Paragould. He first worked at the Gulf Oil Company service station that is now Carlos' Street Tacos Downtown, but he spent the majority of his vocational career with Paragould Municipal Utilities, though of course it was not named that 50 years ago. 

Sue is responsible for launching the Leadership Paragould program, recruiting many industrial employers, and much more. During her time with the Chamber of Commerce, Paragould saw tremendous growth. Still today she serves the city as a board member for local organizations and acts as a sounding board for our current leaders. In this episode we talk about how to recruit new businesses to our city, what makes Paragould unique, why we still don't have a Colton's Steakhouse, and so much more!

Jeff Branch knew in Kindergarten that he wanted to follow in his dad's footsteps and be a lawyer in Paragould. Early in his tenure, he got some of his first action as a deputy prosecutor on the infamous Jones murder trial! As a retired lawyer, Jeff has a lot of opinions and wasn't afraid to spill all!

Coach Kevin Gill has coached at GCT and Paragould Schools locally. His teams had multiple state title appearances and one win (as Ridgecrest Schools). In this extended episode, time flew by as we talked about so much more than sports. Relationships are vital to a healthy life. 

This week's guests are Brent and Amanda Waugh from John 3:16 Ministries! John 3:16 has been a place where many people in Paragould have found freedom from addiction and substance abuse. Their story is a powerful one and they hope the transformation they've both experienced individually can inspire anyone currently in addiction to find help and hope.

Kenny Hall Jr. is a veteran who has a passion for serving our community. He now serves with the Paragould Police Department as a School Resource Officer within the Paragould School District. In our conversation we talked about poverty, parenting, and many of the dangers kids in our community are facing in and out of school. Kenny has a contagious passion for reaching underprivileged children in our community. 

Brooksie is one of the most well known names in real estate in Paragould, AR. She has been a part of the sale of hundreds and hundreds of homes and along with Pete Cancilla founded Image Realty 14 years ago. Listen to this episode to learn about her grit and mindset to become one of the most successful realtors in NEA. 

Dr. Brent Reddick serves our community as a Veterinarian at Linwood Animal Hospital. Day in and day out he and his team help save the lives of cats and dogs in Paragould and last year they were critical to saving the life of Jared's pet dog, Ranger. 

Tony Rama moved from Sicily, Italy to the United States following tragedy. He was 16 years old, had $20 to his name, and spoke very little English. Through unimaginable dedication and hard work, he went from unpaid dishwasher to part-owner of a successful restaurant in Boston. Then he fell in love with the people and the pace of life in Arkansas and decided to open Avanzare Italian Dining in Paragould 8 years ago. 

Dr. Vern Ann Shotts has been taking care of children in Greene County for decades. She was the first female physician in Greene County history. On top of that, her father owned the three Big Star locations in Paragould and she shares with us what it is about Big Star that seemed to produce some of the most successful citizens to come out of Paragould.