In this thoughtful and inspiring episode, we speak with Emily Vernon, occupational therapist and director of the Fort Smith satellite clinic for The Griffin Promise Autism Clinic. Emily shares her journey from Tulsa to Fort Smith and why she’s passionate about supporting neurodiverse individuals and their families. She outlines her vision for creating an inclusive sensory gym, launching a local autism coalition, and making everyday community experiences more accessible for those on the spectrum. Learn about her therapeutic approach, the value of relationship-based care, and how Fort Smith is uniquely positioned to grow as a supportive, inclusive city for all.

Relevant Links:

• The Griffin Promise Autism Clinic: https://www.thegriffinpromise.com

• Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com

• Creekmore Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-park

• Parrot Island Waterpark: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/parrot-island-waterpark

• River Valley Nature Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-center

• Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district

• Georgia’s Restaurant: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/georgias-restaurant

• Rolando’s Restaurante: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/rolandos

• Riverfront Skate and Bike Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront-skate-and-bike-park

• Discover Fort Smith Podcast Sign-Up: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/podcast

Step behind the baton with John Jeter, music director and conductor of the Fort Smith Symphony! In this inspiring episode, John shares how he transformed a modest community orchestra into a nationally celebrated, award-winning symphony. From educational programs like EarQuake and Bluegrass Live! to performing film scores like Harry Potter and Skyfall, discover how John is bringing innovation, accessibility, and global recognition to Fort Smith’s music scene. Whether you’re a symphony newbie or a classical connoisseur, you’ll love this deep dive into the art, passion, and future of orchestral music in the River Valley.

Relevant Links:

• Fort Smith Symphony

• ArcBest Performing Arts Center

• The Bakery District

• Discover Fort Smith Podcast Sign-Up

In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Chris and Lolly Swicegood — a dynamic husband-and-wife musical duo with rich roots in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and a story that spans continents. From serendipitous connections and global adventures to performing in unique venues like creek-side concerts and haunted hotels, Chris and Lolly open up about their creative journey, musical influences, and why Fort Smith has become their beloved home. Plus, enjoy a special live performance of their original song “Your Love Is Only a Dream.” 🎶⸻Relevant Links: • The Bakery District • Levitt Amp Fort Smith Music Series • Fort Smith Coffee Co. • Prima Italia • Stonehouse Chaffee Crossing • Uncork’d Wine Bar • 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge • Majestic Fort Smith • Riverfront Blues Society • Fort Smith Brewing Company • Discover Fort Smith Podcast Sign-Up

Step inside the sonic sanctuary of Sol Studios in Fort Smith, Arkansas, with owner Grant Thomas. In this episode, Grant shares the inspiring journey behind Sol Studios—from humble beginnings to a state-of-the-art analog-meets-digital recording haven. Hear about the intentional design that turns heads, how Fort Smith became a hidden destination for Grammy-nominated artists, and the studio’s involvement in meaningful community projects like the Peacemaker Festival and documentary collaborations with the City of Fort Smith. Whether you’re an audio enthusiast or curious about local creative entrepreneurship, this episode offers an unforgettable tour behind the music and magic of Fort Smith.

Relevant Links:

• Sol Studios Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/sol-studios (if not available, link to city business page)

• Fort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site

• Fort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history

• Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district

• Peacemaker Festival: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/peacemaker-festival

• Fort Smith International Film Festival: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-international-film-festival

• Chaffee Crossing Historic District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/chaffee-crossing

• U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museum

🎙️ Join us on this heartwarming and music-packed episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast as we sit down with the legendary Larry Beadle—better known as Larry B! 🎹🎤 With over 60 years in the music industry, Larry shares his incredible journey from his musical roots in Springfield, Missouri, to his iconic performances in Fort Smith, and beyond.

From jamming with blues icons to working with legends like Willie Nelson and Charley Pride, Larry talks about family bands, soulful beginnings, the evolution of his musical style, and how Fort Smith can uplift young talent and revitalize its live music scene. Plus, hear the unforgettable story of how humming saved him from a bear! 🐻🎶

Whether you’re a fan of funk, soul, country, or just inspiring stories from local legends, this episode hits every note. Don’t miss it!

Relevant Links:

• Discover Fort Smith Podcast Hub: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/podcast

• 906 Lounge (where Larry B performs): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/906-lounge

• Garrison Avenue: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/garrison-avenue

• Fort Smith Nightlife: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/nightlife

• Fort Smith Live Music Scene: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arts-and-culture

🎤 Attorney, advocate, mom, and community builder—Ashleigh Buckley wears a lot of hats in Fort Smith! In this inspiring episode, Ashleigh shares her journey from a small-town girl in Pocola to becoming a successful lawyer and co-founder of the future Fort Kids Children’s Museum. Learn how her passion for creativity led her to the courtroom, why she believes in empowering youth through mock trial coaching, and how Fort Smith became the perfect place for her and her family to grow roots. Whether she’s mentoring future lawyers or championing hands-on STEM education, Ashleigh’s story is full of motivation and meaning for anyone invested in the future of Fort Smith.

Relevant Links:

• Fort Kids Children’s Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-kids-museum

• Fort Smith Public Library: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-public-library

• Chaffee Crossing Farmers Market: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-farmers-market

• Janet Huckabee Nature Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-center

• Fort Smith Riverfront Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-riverfront-park

• Packard Point Ranch (near Muldrow, local attraction): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/packard-point-ranch

🎧 Meet Kristan Moseley, the heart behind the mission at Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs. In this uplifting episode, Kristan shares her powerful personal journey—from overcoming food insecurity and isolation to becoming a community leader advocating for youth equity. Learn how the Boys & Girls Clubs are doing so much more than “babysitting”—offering affordable programs like STEM and arts education, mentoring, esports, sports, free meals, and even gardening classes! Kristan also dishes on her favorite Fort Smith eats, downtown adventures, and her love for Leadership Fort Smith. If you believe in supporting the next generation, you’ll love this one!

Relevant Links:

• Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-boys-girls-club

• Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district

• Fort Smith Riverfront Park: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-riverfront-park

• U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museum

• Celebration Park at Chaffee Crossing: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/celebration-park

• Bookish: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bookish

📚 Join us for a heartwarming and eye-opening conversation with Tiffany DeVries, the Youth Services Librarian at the Fort Smith Public Library! In this episode, Tiffany shares her journey from business major to passionate librarian, the endless resources the library offers beyond books, and the vital role the library plays in connecting the Fort Smith community. From baby storytimes and summer reading programs to free museum passes and language apps, you’ll be amazed at all your library card unlocks. Plus, Tiffany dishes out her favorite book recommendations and how the library helps foster lifelong learning in fun, creative ways!

Relevant Links:

• Fort Smith Public Library: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-public-library

• Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-center

• McClure Amphitheater: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/mcclure-amphitheater

• Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district

• Chaffee Crossing Farmers Market: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-farmers-market

• U.S. Marshals Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museum

🎙️ In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast, hosts Emily and Josh sit down with creative entrepreneur and powerhouse videographer Joe Cline! From his early days in Brinkley, Arkansas, to making six figures through YouTube, Joe shares his journey into videography, his passion for community, and how his podcast Arkansas Minds is shining a light on local entrepreneurs. Hear his insight on creating value, building relationships, navigating the creative hustle, and why Fort Smith’s community drew him back home. Whether you’re a budding creator or a proud Arkansan, this one’s full of inspiration and laughs!

Relevant Links:

• Fort Smith Coffee Co.: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-coffee

• Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-center

• McClure Amphitheater: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/mcclure-amphitheater

• Village at Heritage: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/village-at-heritage

• Ben Geren Regional Park (near Chaffee Crossing trails): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-park

In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, we sit down with Tonya Sarlis, Vice President of Operations at the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, to explore the vital role the Chamber plays in economic development, business growth, and leadership programs in our community.📢 What you’ll learn in this episode:✅ How the Chamber supports small businesses & entrepreneurs✅ The impact of economic development on job growth in Fort Smith✅ Exciting programs like Leadership Fort Smith & Junior Leadership & Career Academy✅ How businesses can connect, network, and thrive through the Chamber✅ The Chamber’s role in bringing new industries & job opportunities to the regionWhether you’re a business owner, aspiring leader, or just passionate about Fort Smith’s future, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss!📍 Learn more & get involved: https://www.fortsmithchamber.comRelevant Links: • Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-chamber • Leadership Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/leadership-fort-smith • Career Ready Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/career-ready • Fort Smith Economic Development: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/economic-development • Fort Smith Business Networking: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/business-networking