This week’s episode is giving jazzy, dapper, and just a little unhinged (in the best way) 💅✨

We’re joined by returning guest Jay Brown — bandleader, saxophonist, and the creative force behind Grace Street Seven and the Triple Crossing Jazz Project. If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a Gatsby party, a speakeasy, or a Sinatra-era lounge… this is your guy.

From 1920s swing to 1960s crooner classics, Jay is keeping Richmond jazzy, classy, and very much alive 🎶

📍 Upcoming Jay Brown Events (RUN don’t walk):

• Gatsby Gala @ The Hofheimer – May 30
• Estate at River Run 1920s soirée – June 26
• Military Aviation Museum Hangar Dance + Luau – July 11
• Glen Echo Ballroom Swing Dance – July 25
• Wilton House “Jazz on the James” – August 8

💌 Pro tip: DM Jay for exclusive ticket links + details

🍸 Local Spots + Music Mentions:

• Verdant Lady (monthly jazz + dress-up perks 👀)
• Goldwing (hidden speakeasy vibes)
• VMFA Jazz Nights (free + iconic)
• Révéler Experiences (live music hotspot)
• Tobacco Company (monthly shows)

Big Daddy drops a very spicy topic 🌶️

We dive into:

• Katy Perry controversy + allegations
• Celebrity accountability + double standards
• Consent, power dynamics, and public perception

🎉 RVA Events to Check Out:

• Burlesque Bingo @ Blue Bee Cider – May 1
• Derby Day @ Bar West – May 2 (hats REQUIRED 👒)
• Ben Folds @ The Carpenter Theatre

🥐 Business of the Week:

Brunchella Café 📍 3445 W Cary St Mediterranean-inspired brunch with:

• Breakfast pizzas + tacos
• Churros, espresso, mocktails
• Cute vibes guaranteed

💖 Shoutouts:

• Harry’s at the Hofheimer (party hosts!!)
• Melanie Eaton Photo 📸
• Amanda Cook MUA + Ashley Sanchez Beauty 💄
• Sports Backers (10K queens + kings 👟)

This episode is giving empowerment, vulnerability, AND a little unhinged fun 💅

In honor of women's history month: we’re joined by the incredible Sarah Bonney, founder of She Kicks VA — a community bringing women together through martial arts, confidence, and straight-up badass energy.

We dive into:

• 🥊 How martial arts builds confidence (inside AND outside the ring)
• 💔 Turning trauma into purpose and creating safer spaces for women
• 👯‍♀️ Why training with women hits different
• 💭 What being a “strong woman” actually means (this one hits)

AND of course…

🎤 Drop It On Us, Big Daddy!

We’re diving into RVA’s karaoke scene 🎶

From wild nights to hidden gems, here’s where you can grab a mic:

🎤 Sticky Rice

🎤 Caddy’s Karaoke Bar & Grill

🎤 Sine Irish Pub

🎤 Barcode

🎤 Babes of Carytown

🎤 Get Tight Lounge

🎤 Thirsty’s

🎤 Lakeside Tavern

🎤 Wonderland

🎤 My Noodle & Bar

🎤 Random iconic karaoke moment at Barboursville (we were THERE 😂)

We also break down the origin of karaoke (yes, it’s actually fascinating) and why singing your heart out is basically therapy.

📅 RVA Events We’re Loving

• 🐰 Dominion Energy Family Easter at Maymont
• 🤠 Bombshell at The Ranch (Midlothian)

Whether you’re trying to be artsy, wholesome, or ready to black out and sing… we got you.

🗣️ Shoutouts

• Melanie Eaton Photography 📸
• Ashley Sanchez (hair) 💇‍♀️
• Amanda Cook (makeup) 💄
• LVLUP Combat Club + MJ 🥊

This week we’re joined by Nan and Kam from Sports Backers, the Richmond nonprofit behind some of the city’s most iconic fitness events like the Monument Avenue 10K, Richmond Marathon, and Dominion Energy Riverrock.

Nan (PR & Communications Manager) and Kam (Social Media Strategist) share what it’s like working behind the scenes of these massive community events and how Sports Backers has helped build Richmond’s active culture. From organizing races with tens of thousands of runners to managing social media, volunteers, and race-day logistics, they give us a look at what it really takes to pull these events off.

We talk about the incredible energy of the Monument Avenue 10K, why it feels like Richmond’s biggest block party, and some of the funniest costumes people have worn during the race. Nan and Kam also share race-day tips for runners, plus some of their favorite Richmond restaurants and post-run brunch spots.

The girls also host their own podcast, On the Move with Nan & Kam, where they highlight Richmond events, active lifestyles, and stories from the local fitness community.

Along the way we also discuss upcoming St. Patrick’s Day events around RVA, take a look at the new Flying Squirrels stadium at CarMax Park, and announce our $50 Harry’s Sing-Along Brunch giveaway (follow along on our Instagram feed and stories for the rules and how to enter. Winner will be announced later this month).

It’s a fun conversation about Richmond culture, community, and the events that bring the city together.

This week we sit down with Erika — Sales & Marketing Manager at Tobacco Company, VCU marketing grad, Canva Queen, and full-time nightlife girly.

She shares:

• How she went from corporate cold-calling to curating Richmond culture
• The history (and near-death moments) of Tobacco Company
• Friday vs. Saturday club vibes
• VIP birthday perks
• Winter White Party chaos
• And why the bathroom mirror selfie is mandatory

Upstairs: steak dinners and anniversaries. Downstairs: espresso martini shooters and early-2000s bangers. Duality.

Support Tobacco Company:

https://www.thetobaccocompany.com/

@tobaccocorva

https://www.facebook.com/TobaccoCoDine/

Follow Erika:

@erikawaszak

🌿 Big Daddy Segment

We also break down Virginia’s move toward a regulated recreational marijuana market and what it could mean for the economy. Yes, stimulated economy jokes included.

We also gush (again) about Harry's at Hofheimer and their Sing-Along Brunch — not just a meal, but a full-room main-character experience. DJs spinning nostalgic hits, strangers becoming backup vocalists, espresso martinis flowing, and the entire room committed to the bit. It’s chaotic in the best way and peak Richmond energy.

We also want to give the biggest shoutout to Melanie Eaton, a Richmond-based luxury fashion, boudoir, and branding photographer who is truly redefining what confidence looks like behind (and in front of) the camera. Through her artistry and her ME Program, Melanie creates spaces where women feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. Her work blends editorial edge with heartfelt intention, and the community she’s built is just as beautiful as the images she captures. RVA is lucky to have her creative energy!

Be sure to follow us for more great episodes! https://linktr.ee/olala_rva

This week, we’re joined by Keith Bryan, Richmond-area native, Navy veteran, licensed pilot, and President & Managing Partner of HOVA Flight Services RVA at Hanover County Airport. From fueling planes at the very beginning of his career to helping lead one of Central Virginia’s most important (and underrated) aviation hubs, Keith’s story is all about passion, persistence, and staying deeply rooted in the RVA community.

We dive into:

• How Keith got into aviation and his journey through the U.S. Navy
• Life on aircraft carriers (catapults, close calls, and unforgettable moments at sea)
• What actually happens at Hanover County Airport day to day
• Why small airports quietly bring millions into the RVA economy
• Celebrity sightings, private jets, and why some famous folks avoid RIC 👀
• Why flying is still safer than driving (yes, really)
• What it actually takes—time, money, and dedication—to become a pilot
• How HOVA and PRK Aviation give back to the Richmond and Hanover communities

We also talk Richmond’s evolution over the years, aviation egos, airport drama (it’s real), and why general aviation keeps things personal instead of sterile.

Support HOVA Flight Services:

@flyHOVA

https://www.facebook.com/FlyHOVA

💥 Drop It On Us, Big Daddy: Big Daddy breaks down a headline-making local story involving Richmond Mayor Danny Avula and his use of ChatGPT.

Plus: ✨

Business of the Week: HOVA Flight Services RVA 🎶

Show of the Week: Flying Legends of Victory Tour (stay tuned for actual dates)

If you’ve ever driven past Hanover County Airport and wondered what goes on behind the scenes—or if you love learning how RVA really works—this episode is for you.

Band of the Week: Poston Brown - Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Snoop Dogg

Also check out Adult Recess at Ember Music Hall from 4-9PM (30+ day time clubbing) Jan 31st

🎧 Buckle up. It’s a smooth takeoff.

Happy New Year, besties 💖 We’re kicking off the year with an episode that’s equal parts sweet, inspiring, and very RVA.

This week we sit down with Fabrizio & Ximena, the new owners of PACHA Spoonables, a Richmond-based Peruvian dessert brand serving up spoonable treats rooted in culture, family, and flavor. Think cozy desserts, rich traditions, and desserts so good they’ll make you rethink everything you know about chocolate cake 🍫✨

🍰 In This Episode:

• How PACHA Spoonables was born from family recipes and Peruvian pride
• What makes “spoonable” desserts the perfect intro to a new food culture
• Peruvian dessert favorites
• Building a business as a family (yes, mom is the chef 👑)
• Why Richmond is the perfect place for global flavors to thrive
• Future plans: seasonal flavors, events, coffee dreams, and more

🇵🇪 Plus… Peruvian Trivia!

We test everyone’s knowledge with fun facts about:

• Peru as a global culinary capital
• 3,000+ varieties of potatoes 🥔
• Pisco sours, Machu Picchu, and iconic Latin desserts

🗓️ RVA Events & Community:

• Lima Fest (Jan 18 & 19) – Richmond’s Peruvian cultural festival with food, music, dancing, and local vendors (yes, Pacha Spoonables will be there!)
• Show of the Week: 🎼 Let’s Groove Tonight with the Richmond Symphony
  • 📍 Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center
  • 📅 Friday, Feb 20 @ 7 PM
  • Motown classics + full orchestra = classy with a funky twist

✨ New Year, New You (But Make It Realistic):

We also dive into:

• Wild New Year’s resolution stats (spoiler: most people quit 👀)
• How to actually stick to your goals
• Trending 2026 resolutions like:
  • Micro-joy journaling
  • Digital detoxes (in small doses, don’t panic)
  • Functional fitness over burnout workouts

From fitness goals and boundaries to weddings, martial arts, and learning to say no — this episode is full of laughs, honesty, and feel-good motivation.

💕 Support PACHA Spoonables:

Facebook | Instagram | Ordering

Orders close Tuesdays | Deliveries Fridays 📍 Catch them at Lima Fest & upcoming RVA events

As always — thanks for listening, supporting local, and starting the year with us 💖

It’s the final episode of the year and we’re going out sparkly, chaotic, and very on brand ✨ This week, we’re joined by the incredible Melanie Eaton (Helms), Richmond-based luxury fashion, boudoir, and branding photographer, plus ME Program member Hannah, for a conversation about confidence, creativity, community, and taking bold artistic risks.

We talk disposable cameras, Barbie shoots, Vikings, mermaids, snakes (yes, real ones), and why overthinking is the hardest thing to photograph. PLUS—Big Daddy brings us some truly unhinged Bad Santa crimes, and we round things out with high-key and low-key New Year’s Eve plans around Richmond.

💖 This Episode Includes:

• ✨ Main Character vs. Delulu Era energy check for 2025
• 📸 Melanie Eaton’s journey from disposable cameras to high-end editorial photography
• 👑 What confidence really looks like—and how to fake it until it sticks
• 🤍 Inside The ME Program: empowerment, community, and hype-girl energy
• 💄 Barbie shoots, Secret Gardens, Vikings, Sirens, Marie Antoinette, and creative chaos
• 🐍 A photoshoot featuring a REAL snake (and facing fears)
• 🎥 Why community matters more than perfection
• 🏗️ Melanie’s upcoming studio glow-up
• 🎅 Big Daddy’s Bad Santa Crimes (marijuana Santa, chimney Santa, Santa brawls)
• 🥂 New Year’s Eve in RVA: high-key parties and soft-life options

🎉 New Year’s Eve Events We Cover:

High-Key

• Midnight in Manhattan at Harry’s at the Hofheimer (Follow us on instagram for 1/2 off ticket prices on this one!!!)
• Y2K NYE Bash at Ember Music Hall
• Royal Masquerade Ball at The Foundation

Low-Key / Soft Life

• Carytown dinner + stroll
• Wine flights at Brambly Park
• Artsy NYE at the VMFA

🌸 Guest Info:

Instagram: @melanieeatonphoto

Facebook: @melanieeatonphoto

Website: https://melanieeatonphotography.com/

Bookings for 2026 are OPEN 👀✨

As always—thank you for listening, laughing, and being part of our corner of RVA 💕 See you next year, besties 🥂✨ and be sure to follow us!

This week on O Lala in RVA, we’re sitting down with someone who truly helped shape how Richmond sees itself — Juan Conde. Journalist. Broadcaster. Community voice. Motorcycle enthusiast. And yes… that voice you’ve trusted for decades.

From his early days in radio to 22 years behind the anchor desk, Juan has covered some of the most defining moments of our time — and he’s got the stories (and perspective) to prove it. We talk journalism, trust, the evolution of local news, and what it really takes to stay credible in an age of constant noise. Plus, Juan spills just enough about a very mysterious radio comeback 👀.

And because it is O Lala — we also get festive, nostalgic, a little unhinged, and very Richmond.

✨ In This Episode:

• Juan’s journey from Brooklyn → DC → RVA
• How he landed a TV anchor job without traditional newsroom training
• What’s changed (and what’s been lost) in local journalism
• Covering major events like 9/11, the DC Sniper case, hurricanes, and tragedies close to home
• Why there is no such thing as unbiased news — and how to work responsibly anyway
• The power of saying “no” in your career 💅
• What viewers don’t realize about producing daily local news
• Being recognized, stalked, praised, and misunderstood in a public-facing role
• The moment Juan knew it was time to walk away from TV
• Journalism vs. theater (and why authenticity always wins)
• Life after the anchor desk: commercial real estate, PBS work, and consulting
• That tease 👀 — Juan’s limited-run return to radio
• His favorite holiday traditions, RVA nostalgia, and why this city still feels like home

🎄 Holiday Side Quests:

Because we cannot stay serious for too long…

• Christmas tree trivia 🌲
• The pickle ornament tradition 🥒
• Drunk tree decorating (a classic)
• Tacky light tours gone very wrong
• Favorite Richmond holiday pop-up bars:
  • Miracle on Cary
  • Candy Cane Lane at Mosaic
  • Tiz the Season at Terrance
  • My Noodle & Bar (surprise cozy queen)
  • Black Lodge, Common House, and more

🔍 Follow Juan:

• Facebook: Juan Conde
• Instagram: @juan_condé_rva (lurking > posting)
• Catch Juan on PBS National during fundraising campaigns
• Keep an eye out for updates on his upcoming radio project 👀

Richmond’s favorite caricature artist, Eric Vineyard, joins O Lala! in RVA to spill all the messy, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt details of life as a traveling caricature artist. From sketching drunk wedding guests to the day he accidentally gave a ride to someone picking up crack, Eric keeps it brutally honest and painfully funny.

Eric opens up about getting fired (a lot), learning the ropes at Busch Gardens, getting banned for “Irish coffee mishaps,” and eventually becoming RVA’s go-to caricature artist on his own terms. He talks about his love-hate relationship with weddings, his wildest fairground moments, and why he’ll always draw you better if you just look up from your phone.

We also play “Would You Draw This?”, where Eric tells us which requests he’d sketch sober, skip entirely, or only do if drunk — from toddlers mid-tantrum to couples with questionable poses.

Follow Eric:

https://www.instagram.com/ericscaricatures

https://ericscaricatures.com

Plus:

• 🐒 Big Daddy’s Drop It On Us: The escaped monkey saga in Mississippi (herpes, COVID rumors, and all)
• 🎄 Upcoming RVA events — from GardenFest of Lights to Thanksgiving dinner spots and River City Roll & Rave
• 🎁 Business of the Week: The Shops at 5807 — your one-stop, last-minute gift haven
• 🎸 Band of the Week: Richmond’s own What’s Our Age Again
• 🍸 Shoutouts to local icons, cake artists, new restaurants, and all the Christmas pop-up bars lighting up RVA

Grab a gobbler from Wawa, pour a little whiskey (but maybe don’t draw after), and enjoy this sweet, sketch-filled episode with RVA’s funniest grump and most talented doodler.

O Lala! (In RVA) gets spooky with a special Halloween edition featuring author and journalist Catherine Baab — whose book Poe for Your Problems turned Edgar Allan Poe into an unlikely self-help icon. Now she’s back at it with her upcoming project, Gothic Glow-Up: Mary Shelley’s Guide to Stitching Yourself Back Together.

We talk Frankenstein, free love, grief, genius, and the surprisingly messy (and sexy?) lives of 19th-century writers. It’s brains, bangers, and a whole lot of gothic gossip — perfect for a cozy October listen.

Then, Big Voodoo Daddy drops his “Big Daddy Topic” — the eerie origins of trick-or-treating and the world’s weirdest Halloween traditions (yes, some countries hide their knives 👀). We also highlight a spooky Richmond band, a bold new Carytown boutique, and all the Halloween happenings you don’t wanna miss.

🧠 Topics We Cover

• Cat’s upcoming book Gothic Glow-Up and her deep dive into Mary Shelley’s life
• Why Shelley’s husband Percy was the ultimate gothic f-boy
• How grief, trauma, and genius collide in Frankenstein
• Gothic trivia showdown (Olivia vs. Big Daddy — who wins?)
• The eerie history of trick-or-treating and Halloween across the globe
• Local RVA shoutouts: from the Broadberry’s Halloween Bash to the return of the Gunhole (yes, that Gunhole)
• Our Band of the Week: Windhand
• Our Business of the Week: Hiss Off, a Harajuku-inspired boutique in Carytown

💀 Guest Spotlight: Cat Baab

🖤 Author of Poe for Your Problems 📖 Working on Gothic Glow-Up (coming soon!) 💬 Find her at @authorcatherinebaab 👻 Follow her on Facebook for gothic humor and literary musings.

🍸 Local Shoutouts

• Windhand — Doom metal darlings of RVA
• Hiss Off — Vintage goth-meets-Y2K boutique by Sophie Smith (behind Can Can)
• Reveler at Carytown — Hosting The Embalmers & Crack Fox this Halloween
• Red Vein Haunted House — Our favorite haunted hangout (VIP tickets = worth it)
• The Gunhole at The Valentine Museum — She’s back, baby!