What does the future of Fayetteville's arts community look like?

In this episode, we sit down with the new President & CEO of the Arts Council of Fayetteville | Cumberland County to discuss the future of the local arts scene, community engagement, and the important role the arts play in shaping Fayetteville's identity.

We explore how the Arts Council supports local artists, creates meaningful cultural experiences, and strengthens the quality of life throughout Cumberland County. From preserving our community's creative spirit to expanding opportunities for artists and residents alike, this conversation offers an inside look at what's ahead for arts and culture in our region.

Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, community leader, or simply someone who loves Fayetteville, you'll gain valuable insight into the impact the arts have on our community and why they matter now more than ever.

In this episode, we discuss:
• The mission and impact of the Arts Council of Fayetteville | Cumberland County
• Why investing in the arts strengthens local communities
• Opportunities and challenges facing artists and arts organizations
• The future of Fayetteville's arts and cultural landscape
• Arts programs, events, and experiences you won't want to miss
• How residents can support local artists and get involved in the creative community

Thank you for listening! If you enjoy conversations that highlight the people, organizations, and ideas shaping Fayetteville and Cumberland County, be sure to follow the podcast so you never miss a new episode.

In this episode, we sit down with Naynesh Meta, an experienced hotelier and Chair of the Fayetteville/Cumberland County Tourism Development Authority (TDA), for a conversation about hospitality, leadership, and the future of tourism in our community.

Naynesh shares his journey through the hotel industry, the experiences that shaped his career, and what it takes to succeed in hospitality. We also discuss the growing role of sports tourism, how major events impact local businesses and the economy, and the work happening behind the scenes to make Fayetteville and Cumberland County a destination for visitors from across the country.

Whether you're interested in business, tourism, hospitality, or community leadership, this episode offers an inside look at the people and strategies helping shape the region's future.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Naynesh's career in the hospitality industry
• The role of the Tourism Development Authority
• The impact of sports tourism on Fayetteville and Cumberland County
• Economic development through tourism
• Leadership, partnerships, and what's next for the local hospitality industry

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a rating or review—it helps more people discover the show.

In this episode of Greater Fay Forward, we sit down with Michelle Skinner, General Manager of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, to discuss how baseball, community engagement, and leadership are helping shape the future of Fayetteville and Cumberland County.

Michelle shares her journey into sports and stadium management, what makes Segra Stadium such a special destination, and how the Woodpeckers organization continues to create memorable experiences for fans while making a positive impact throughout the community.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• Exciting events, promotions, and experiences coming to Segra Stadium
• Michelle's path to becoming General Manager of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers
• The behind-the-scenes work that goes into game days and major events
• Community partnerships and outreach efforts across Cumberland County
• The role the Woodpeckers play in Fayetteville's growth and momentum
• Michelle's vision for the future of the organization and Segra Stadium

Greater Fay Forward highlights the people, organizations, businesses, and community leaders making a difference across Fayetteville and Cumberland County. Our mission is to share the positive stories, local successes, and forward-thinking conversations that help move our community ahead.

If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and share the podcast to help us continue bringing great local stories to a wider audience.

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In this episode, we sit down with Melanie Parker, Director of Sales for Everhome Suites and a dedicated Chamber Ambassador in Fayetteville, NC. Melanie shares her journey in the hospitality industry, offering insight into what it takes to build meaningful client relationships, drive business growth, and represent a brand with excellence.

We also dive into her role within the Fayetteville business community, exploring how her work with the Chamber helps foster connections, support local businesses, and strengthen the region’s economic development. Whether you’re in sales, hospitality, or simply passionate about community leadership, this conversation delivers valuable perspectives and real-world experience.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on leadership, networking, and the power of community-driven success.

Go behind the scenes of the Crown Complex—one of the premier event venues in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

In this episode, we sit down with the General Manager and Marketing Director to explore event management, venue operations, and live event production at a multi-venue complex. Learn how their team handles concerts, sports events, trade shows, and theatre productions, all while managing tight schedules and large-scale logistics.

Plus, a look at the ongoing renovations at the Crown Complex and what they mean for the future of entertainment in Fayetteville.

If you're interested in event planning, venue management, or live entertainment, this episode is for you.

WELCOME TO EPISODE 2! In this episode, we talk to Nat Robertson, head of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. He tells us the inside scoop of the Chamber as well as all the exciting new and returning programs the Chamber puts on. Also hear about what Nat sees in Fayetteville's future!

Hello and welcome to the Greater Fay Forward Podcast, where we discuss all things Cumberland County. Join us monthly as we talk to people in our community about the exciting news for the Greater Fayetteville area. Follow us here and on social media to stay up to date on the area, or if you're a meeting planner looking for your next venue, contact us today!