"Your story does matter if nobody's told you before. It really does.”

 - Randy Wilburn

In episode 246 of the "I am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, host Randy delves into the fascinating world of bladesmithing with Kenneth Webb, the artist and owner of Webb Blades. Kenneth Webb is a true craftsman who has found his calling in the vibrant maker community of Northwest Arkansas.

Kenneth's journey into the realm of bladesmithing began with a profound passion for creating bespoke chef knives and outdoor blades. His work is not just about crafting tools; it's about turning them into meaningful experiences. Every blade he creates is a testament to his dedication and skill, reflecting his commitment to quality and detail.

During the episode, listeners are taken on a captivating journey through the artistry and utilitarian aspects of knife-making. Kenneth shares his process, from forging steel to crafting intricate designs, revealing the heart and soul he pours into each piece. His knives are more than mere tools; they are talismans that hold the power to transform everyday tasks into something special.

Kenneth's craftsmanship has earned him a dedicated following among chefs and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're in the kitchen slicing through ingredients or exploring the great outdoors, a Webb Blade is a companion that stands the test of time.

Tune in to this episode to gain insights into Kenneth's story and discover the passion that fuels his craft. It's a journey into the world of bladesmithing and a celebration of the artistry that thrives in Northwest Arkansas.

• Uncover the Artistry and Craftsmanship of Bladesmithing: Delve into the intricate world of bladesmithing and knife-making, where passion meets skill, and learn how you can transform your passion into a thriving craft career.
• Crafting Unique Chef Knives and Outdoor Blades: Explore the realm of custom chef knives and outdoor blades, discovering the secrets to creating one-of-a-kind, high-quality tools that will captivate chefs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Join a Thriving Maker Community: Connect with the vibrant maker community in Northwest Arkansas, where like-minded individuals come together to inspire and support each other on their entrepreneurial journeys.
• The Art of Storytelling in Business: Harness the power of storytelling to forge deep connections with your audience. Learn how sharing your personal narrative can set you apart in a competitive market and resonate with customers.
• Balancing Skill Development and Commissions: Gain insights into the delicate balance between evolving your skills and taking on commissioned work. Discover strategies for growing your craft business without compromising your artistic integrity, ensuring long-term success in the field.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. 

Email Keneth Webb

Webb Blades

Webb Blades on Instagram

Webb Blades on Facebook

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

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Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

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"There are global opportunities in business, and most of those opportunities emanate from right here in Arkansas.”

 - Randy Wilburn

In Episode 245 of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, Randy Wilburn engages in a captivating discussion with Yang Luo-Branch, President of the Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses, and board member Michael Mourot. They delve into the dynamic landscape of the Arkansas Asian business community.

Yang Luo-Branch shares her inspiring journey of founding the organization, focusing on her deliberate efforts to bridge the cultural gap between Asia and Arkansas. She underscores the critical role of communication in building relationships and fostering mutual understanding. Michael Mourot expands on this by highlighting the diversity within the Asian business community, clarifying that it encompasses a wide range of countries beyond China.

The conversation also explores the "five personas" of the Arkansas Asian business community, revealing the vast potential for growth and networking in the region. Through their stories and insights, Yang and Michael are instrumental in creating a more inclusive and prosperous business environment in Northwest Arkansas. This episode is a rich source of information for anyone interested in the evolving dynamics of the region's business landscape.

• Expand your business horizons and tap into the thriving Asian market by joining the Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses (AAAB).
• Learn the secrets to bridging the gap between Arkansas and Asia, opening up new avenues for growth and success in your business.
• Gain a competitive edge by understanding the importance of cultural understanding and communication when conducting business with Asian counterparts.
• Unlock the power of building strong business connections in Asia and discover the endless opportunities it can bring to your company.
• Support and promote Asian businesses in Northwest Arkansas to foster a diverse and inclusive business environment that benefits everyone.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. 

Email Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses (AAAB)

Email Michael Mourot

Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses on Instagram

Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses on Facebook

Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses

Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses on Linkedin

Connect with Yang Luo-Branch on LinkedIn

Connect with Michael Mourot on LinkedIn

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

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.

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Thank 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 Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

🦉 About HootOwl Legal

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FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

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"Our patient experience is a priority for us, and we've created an atmosphere that families and patients remember when they leave. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the dedication and compassion of our entire team, and that's what sets us apart.”

 - Shannon Hendrix

In Episode 244 of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn welcomes Shannon Hendrix, the Senior VP and Chief Administrator at Children's Hospital. Shannon shares her journey in the medical field, focusing on her role in the growth of Arkansas Children's Northwest (ACNW) in Springdale.

She highlights the unique position of ACNW as the only pediatric hospital in the region, serving an estimated 200,000 children across 15 counties. The episode illuminates the extensive services provided by ACNW, including emergency, primary, and specialty care, and addresses common misconceptions about pediatric healthcare.

Shannon and Randy emphasize the importance of having a dedicated children's hospital in Northwest Arkansas. They discuss its significant impact on local families, ensuring access to high-quality healthcare close to home. This conversation is especially relevant for families considering relocating to the area, offering insights into the robust pediatric care available.

This episode is a must-listen, packed with valuable information for anyone interested in the healthcare landscape of Northwest Arkansas, particularly in the pediatric sector.

• Discover the importance of Children's Hospital in Northwest Arkansas and how it's transforming pediatric healthcare services.
• Explore the comprehensive pediatric healthcare services available in Northwest Arkansas and how they are tailored to meet the unique needs of children.
• Uncover the impact of the pandemic on pediatric care and how healthcare professionals in Northwest Arkansas are adapting to ensure the well-being of young patients.
• Bust common misconceptions about pediatric healthcare and gain a deeper understanding of the specialized care provided in Northwest Arkansas.
• Learn about the support from the philanthropic community and how their contributions are making a difference in improving pediatric healthcare services in Northwest Arkansas.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.

Email Arkansas Children’s

Website for Arkansas Children’s

Arkansas Children’s on Facebook

Arkansas Children’s on Instagram

Arkansas Children’s on YouTube

Connect with Shannon Hendrix on LinkedIn

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

• Grab our Newsletter 
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• Connect With Us on Threads
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• Join The Facebook Group 
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Thank 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 Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

🦉 About HootOwl Legal

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FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

FindItNWA.com

"Surround yourself with people that are going to encourage you, celebrate you, and join with you in the journey to make your life better. That's what we do at NWACC.”

 - President Dennis Rittle

Join us for an engaging episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast, where host Randy Wilburn sits down with Dennis Rittle, the President of Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC). In this episode, President Rittle illuminates NWACC's commitment to providing accessible and affordable higher education.

He shares his insights on the rising costs of education and the critical need to eliminate financial barriers for students. The discussion highlights NWACC's efforts in offering Pell grants to eligible students, aiding them in covering their educational expenses.

President Rittle advocates for a debt-free graduation, emphasizing the freedom it gives graduates in choosing their career paths without financial constraints. He also points out the value of NWACC as an excellent starting point for students' educational journeys, offering a variety of courses and opportunities to explore different interests and career paths in a cost-effective way.

This episode is a must-listen for students, educators, and anyone looking to understand the importance of affordable education. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that empowers listeners to pursue their educational goals without the stress of financial burdens.

• Discover NWACC's deep commitment to education and find out how it can positively impact your academic journey.
• Understand the importance of affordable education and explore how it can open doors to a brighter future without breaking the bank.
• Learn about the benefits of NWACC's hybrid learning model and how it can provide flexibility and convenience while ensuring a quality education.
• Explore the inclusive and diverse learning environment fostered by NWACC, and how it can enrich your educational experience and broaden your perspectives.
• Discover the power of collaboration between NWACC, the community, and local industry, and how it can create unique opportunities for networking and real-world experiences.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  

Email President Dennis Rittle

NWACC Website

President Dennis Rittle on LinkedIn

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

• Grab our Newsletter 
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Thank 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 Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

🦉 About HootOwl Legal

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FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

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"Each successive generation that comes out will do even greater things than the generation before it.”

 - Kaitlyn Fondano

In the latest episode of the "I Am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, host Randy Wilburn talks to Kaitlyn Fondano, Director of the Young Leaders Group (YLG) at the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Northwest Arkansas. Kaitlyn shares her journey to Northwest Arkansas and her passion for fostering vibrant, sustainable communities through the YLG.

The YLG is a melting pot of young professionals from diverse fields—architects, engineers, marketers, and even students. They exchange ideas and foster leadership in land planning and community development. Through engaging programs like curated conversations and PechaKucha presentations, the group encourages collaboration and innovation.

Feeling stuck in your real estate career? Tired of traditional networking methods that don't deliver? Kaitlyn and the YLG may have the solution. They're not just talking about change; they're making it happen, shaping the future of Northwest Arkansas one collaboration at a time.

If you're seeking effective networking and career advancement, this episode points you to an avenue that's making a real impact: the Young Leaders Group. Tune in to learn how you can get involved and contribute to the vibrant future of the region.

• Discover the benefits of joining the Young Leaders Group in Northwest Arkansas and how it can advance your career in real estate.
• Learn about the networking opportunities available through ULI Northwest Arkansas membership and how they can help you forge valuable connections in the industry.
• Explore the importance of strategic planning for affordable housing and how it can positively impact communities in Northwest Arkansas.
• Gain insights on engaging young professionals in real estate development and how to create a more inclusive and dynamic industry.
• Uncover the latest trends and innovations in the real estate industry, and how they can inform your professional development as a young professional in Northwest Arkansas.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  

Email Kaitlyn Fondano

Urban Land Institute of Northwest Arkansas ULINWA

Young Leaders Group of ULI of NWA

Urban Land Institute of Northwest Arkansas ULINWA on Instagram

Urban Land Institute of Northwest Arkansas ULINWA on Facebook

Urban Land Institute of Northwest Arkansas ULINWA on LinkedIn

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

• Grab our Newsletter 
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• Connect With Us on Threads
• Connect With Our Instagram 
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• Join The Facebook Group 
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Thank 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 Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

🦉 About HootOwl Legal

HootOwl Legal Ver 2

FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

FindItNWA.com

"Every small purchase at a local business has a ripple effect, helping to sustain jobs, drive economic growth, and create a thriving community.”

 - Tori P. Bogner

In a recent episode of the "I Am Northwest Arkansas" podcast, Randy Wilburn sits down with Tori Bogner, Senior VP of Marketing at Signature Bank, and Jennifer Esty, owner of the Scout Guide in Northwest Arkansas. The trio delves into the "Shop Small Y'all" program, a unique collaboration between Signature Bank and the Scout Guide that champions local businesses.

Tori and Jennifer articulate the vital importance of investing in and supporting local enterprises. They underline how community-centric initiatives like Shop Small Y'all not only bolster businesses but also enrich the local economy. The program operates via a gift card system, offering a versatile way for shoppers to patronize a range of participating businesses while enjoying exclusive discounts and offers.

The guests don't just speak in theoretical terms; they also share success stories from previous years. These testimonials underscore the tangible impact of the program and the very real need for ongoing support for small businesses in Northwest Arkansas.

For listeners keen on making a meaningful difference in their community, Tori and Jennifer encourage active involvement in the Shop Small Y'all program. By doing so, you're not just shopping; you're investing in the well-being and vibrancy of Northwest Arkansas.

• Discover how joining the Shop Small Y'all program in Northwest Arkansas can boost your sales and bring more customers to your door.
• Learn why supporting local small businesses is not only good for the community but also benefits your own business in the long run.
• Find out the advantages of participating in the Shop Small Y'all program, such as increased brand awareness and customer loyalty.
• Explore the unique services offered by a bilingual bank in Arkansas and how they can help you cater to a diverse customer base.
• Hear about Signature Bank's community initiatives that go beyond banking and how they can make a positive impact on your business and the local community.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. 

Email Tori Bogner

Email Jennifer Etsy

Website The Scout Guide Northwest Arkansas

Website Shop Small Ya’ll Northwest Arkansas

The Scout Guide Northwest Arkansas on Instagram

Shop Small Ya’ll Northwest Arkansas on Instagram

The Scout Guide Northwest Arkansas on Facebook

The Scout Guide Northwest Arkansas on LinkedIn

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

• Grab our Newsletter 
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Thank 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 Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

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FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

FindItNWA.com

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

"Even though I kept trying to take breaks, riding horses remained a huge part of my life that I never wanted to lose.  It’s a passion that infects you and never leaves.”

 - Christy Zweig Niehues

Welcome to another episode of the "I am Northwest Arkansas" podcast. In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Christy Zweig Niehues, the owner of Always August Farm, a standout horse training and boarding business right here in Northwest Arkansas.

Christy opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, offering a wealth of insights that are invaluable for anyone interested in melding passion and business. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of expanding Always August Farm, emphasizing that while pursuing your passion is essential, having the right resources can make all the difference in achieving your entrepreneurial dreams.

The episode also tackles the significant but often unspoken impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the horse industry. Christy provides a candid look at how the pandemic not only presented challenges but also unexpected opportunities for her business. This conversation extends to the industry, highlighting the critical need for business education in horse-related enterprises to adapt and flourish in a changing landscape.

But what sets this episode apart is Christy's unwavering commitment to community building within her field. She's passionate about helping fellow horse business owners refine their processes and hit their goals. 

So, if you're an aspiring horseback rider mulling over entrepreneurial ventures in Northwest Arkansas or just someone inspired by stories of people successfully combining their passion and expertise, this episode is a must-listen. Christy's hands-on experience and actionable advice serve as a motivating guide, encouraging you to take those crucial next steps in your entrepreneurial journey.

• Discover your latent passion for horse riding & entrepreneurship.
• Analyze the essence of communication & collaboration in Eventing.
• Ascertain why safety is paramount in the exhilarating sport of Eventing.
• Realize the untapped potential of the Horse industry amid pandemic havoc.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  

Always August Farm Website

Always August Farm on Instagram

Always August Farm on Facebook

Christy Zweig Niehues on LinkedIn

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

• Grab our Newsletter 
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• Connect With Our Facebook Page 
• Connect With Us on Threads
• Connect With Our Instagram 
• Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
• Join The Facebook Group 
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Thank 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 Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

FindItNWA.com

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

🦉 About HootOwl Legal

HootOwl Legal Ver 2

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

"People are people, and we're just coming alongside to help. It's not about a quick fix, but about creating real, lasting change for families and communities.”

 - Dave LeVan

From Walmart executive to Lifewater CEO, Dave LeVan's story is a journey filled with purpose and a focus on global impact.

Infused with a unique blend of corporate know-how, global insights, and a deep-rooted sense of altruism, Dave found his true calling in enhancing the lives of communities across the globe.

His initial engagement with Lifewater happened through his church's Serve the World initiative. This experience took him on enlightening journeys to far-flung locations like northern Nigeria and Ukraine.

What caught Dave's eye was Lifewater’s commitment to providing sustainable and holistic solutions to the global water crisis. This led him to join their board.

A move to Northwest Arkansas came at a serendipitous time, coinciding with an opening for the CEO position at Lifewater. Without hesitation, Dave seized this pivotal opportunity.

Tune in to learn more about Dave’s inspiring journey and the impactful work he's leading at Lifewater, as he combines compassion and strategic planning to address one of the world's most pressing challenges.

• Discover Lifewater's pioneering mission to resolve the water crisis by offering safe water and sanitation.
• Understand the principles of Lifewater's method to sustainable growth and long-lasting involvement.
• Explore the profound effect that safe water leaves on overall health, academic progress, and local economic development.
• Hear Dave LeVan's personal story and his unlikely pathway to Lifewater.
• Find out the numerous avenues by which you can become active and aid Lifewater's essential mission. 

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  

Email Dave LeVan

Website for Lifewater

Lifewater on Instagram

Lifewater on Twitter

Lifewater on Facebook

Lifewater on LinkedIn

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

• Grab our Newsletter 
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• Connect With Us on Threads
• Connect With Our Instagram 
• Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
• Join The Facebook Group 
• Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn

Thank 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 Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

🦉 About HootOwl Legal

HootOwl Legal Ver 2

FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

FindItNWA.com

"Let's keep moving that needle and getting more affordable units on the ground. Hitting singles may not be home runs, but eventually, we'll score runs and make a big impact.”

 - Mark Conine

In this episode of "I am Northwest Arkansas," we're thrilled to introduce you to Mark Conine, a lifelong Arkansan and a true leader with a passion for affordable housing. Mark's journey began as a CPA, but he's now making a significant impact as the President of the Arkansas Development Finance Authority.

Join us as Mark shares his inspiring story, starting with his roots in the state and how he carved his path towards a career dedicated to improving housing accessibility for fellow Arkansans. As the President of the ADFA, he's at the forefront of making homeownership dreams come true for many in the region.

Mark's innovative approach involves forging essential partnerships between public institutions and private developers, a strategy that's proven effective in bridging the gap in affordable housing. His unwavering commitment to this cause is not only changing lives but also reshaping the housing landscape in Arkansas.

Tune in to this episode to learn from Mark's financial acumen, leadership insights, and vision for a more affordable and accessible housing future in Northwest Arkansas.

• Unravel the challenge of affordable housing in the Northwest Arkansas region.
• Learn about amending zoning laws to accommodate mixed-use and high-density developments.
• Debunk myths and misunderstandings clouding the concept of affordable housing.
• Discover the significance of community participation in the real estate development process.
• Track the future course of affordable housing shaped by mixed-use developments and developer partnerships. 

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. 

• Connect with Mark Conine at ADFA
• Visit the website of the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) to learn more about their work in affordable housing development in Northwest Arkansas.
• Explore the resources and programs offered by ADFA for developers interested in building affordable housing units in the area.
• Check out the Future Is Now Speaker series hosted by the Northwest Arkansas Council to stay updated on discussions about workforce diversity, workforce development, and housing affordability in Northwest Arkansas.
• Consider attending first-time homebuyer classes or workshops to gain a better understanding of the home-buying process and explore opportunities for homeownership in Northwest Arkansas.
• Keep an eye out for incentives and funding options available for developers interested in building affordable housing units and consider partnering with ADFA for support.

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

• NWA Council Website
• NWA Council on Instagram
• NWA Council on Facebook
• NWA Council on LinkedIn
• NWA Council on Twitter
• NWA Council Email

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

• Grab our Newsletter 
• Email Us at [email protected]
• Connect With Our Facebook Page 
• Connect With Us on Threads
• Connect With Our Instagram 
• Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
• Join The Facebook Group 
• Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn

Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

FindItNWA.com

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🦉 About HootOwl Legal

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"We need to be doing everything that we can at this moment to provide a healthy environment and to give back to Mother Earth, all of which we have been stripping from her on a regular basis.”

 - Ricky Ludeman

In a timely episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Ricky Ludeman, the forward-thinking founder of Ozark Compost and Swap. Ricky isn't your average entrepreneur; he's a man on a mission to turn food waste into gold—well, into soil-enriching compost. Inspired by his time in the sustainability-focused culture of Northern California, Ricky brought that eco-conscious ethos back to Northwest Arkansas and took a leap of faith into the world of entrepreneurship with zero prior experience.

It's not just about composting; it's about fostering a holistic relationship with the environment. Ricky eloquently sums it up: "We need to be doing everything that we can at this moment to provide a healthy environment and to give back to Mother Earth, all of which we have been stripping from her on a regular basis."

Through his story, Ricky aims to ignite the spark in you—the aspiring entrepreneur or community member—to take action for a more sustainable future, even when faced with uncertainties or obstacles. If you've ever felt the pull to contribute positively to your community and our planet, this episode with Ricky Ludeman is the motivation to get started.

Tune in to discover the power of community-driven sustainability, the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and actionable ways you can contribute to a healthier environment right in your backyard.

• Discover the importance of composting and how it can have a significant positive impact on the environment.
• Learn how entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool to create sustainable businesses that make a positive impact.
• Explore the common ground shared by people in appreciating nature and how it can inspire entrepreneurial ventures.
• Uncover the convenience and benefits of composting services and how they can contribute to a greener future.
• Find out how to effectively spread awareness and encourage the adoption of composting practices in your community.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.  

Email Ozark Compost & Swap

Ozark Compost & Swap Website

Ozark Compost & Swap on Facebook

Ozark Compost & Swap on Instagram

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

*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.

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Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

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FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

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