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! 

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. 

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. 

Jiles Wright survived a horrific plane crash in 1990, but found his way back in the pilots seat a few years later. The adrenaline rush that comes from flying was amplified even more when he discovered the sport of Fast Draw target shooting. At first he shot in the stance he was trained as a police officer. Before long, he found his form and became a champion. Earlier this year, he became not just a champion, but the fastest of all time in the Xtreme Fast Draw of America organization. 

Luke Morris has been working at the Greene County Jail for just 18 months, but has already made a huge impact in the opinion of Jail Leadership. In today's episode we talk about a day in the life at jail, how to remain calm in a chaotic situation, leadership, and why so many inmates are repeat offenders. 

We had a unique treat to interview Carlton Jones, the district judge from Miller County, who is running for Arkansas Supreme Court! It was fun to hear his story about how he's been serving Arkansas communities for 35+ years and is ready and excited at the opportunity to serve the entire state if elected to the Supreme Court this year! 

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!