River City Podcast

What happens when we give young people more than just an education? We give them the tools, confidence, connections, and opportunities to shape their own futures.

On this episode of River City Podcast, host Jess Ellett sits down with Dre'mon Miller, educator, entrepreneur, youth advocate, and founder of Street Smartz Over Safety and the Street Smartz Foundation, to explore how his Richmond-based organization is changing lives through mentorship, real-world education, and community connections.

From teaching financial literacy, leadership, and conflict resolution to introducing young people to career opportunities, college experiences, and life-saving certifications, Street Smartz is going far beyond traditional after-school programming.

Dre'mon shares his own journey growing up in Richmond, his experiences in law enforcement and education, and the inspiration behind launching Street Smartz. He also talks about the power of long-term mentorship, the importance of meeting young people where they are, and the incredible impact of watching participants graduate, earn scholarships, and return to help the next generation.

Plus, hear what's ahead for the organization, including its December 13th fundraising gala at the Speakeasy at the Hippodrome, and how local businesses and community members can get involved through mentorship, internships, sponsorships, and donations.

It's an inspiring conversation about breaking barriers, building confidence, and creating a community where every young person has the opportunity to succeed.

Learn more, get involved, or support Street Smartz:

🌐 Street Smartz Foundation

Organizations mentioned:

• Reynolds Community College
• Richmond Public Schools
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond
• University of Richmond
• Virginia Commonwealth University

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

What happens when a life-changing diagnosis becomes a mission to help others?

On this episode of River City Podcast, host Jess Ellett sits down with John Poma, Chair of Mission and Outreach for the Parkinson's Foundation Mid-Atlantic Chapter and Chair of Moving Day Richmond, and Sean Liverman of the Medical Society of Virginia.

John shares his personal journey with Parkinson's disease, from the unexpected sleep disorder that led to his diagnosis to the challenges of living with a progressive neurological condition. He also talks about the importance of exercise, early intervention, groundbreaking research, and why he has dedicated himself to advocating for others living with Parkinson's.

Sean joins the conversation to discuss the Medical Society of Virginia's commitment to improving healthcare and why supporting Moving Day Richmond has become such a meaningful part of that mission.

Together, they explore the latest developments in Parkinson's research, the potential connection between environmental factors and the disease, and the incredible resources available right here in Richmond.

Plus, learn about Moving Day Richmond! More than a fundraising walk, this annual event brings together individuals living with Parkinson's, their families, healthcare professionals, and community supporters for a day of connection, education, movement, and hope.

Moving Day Richmond 2026

Saturday, October 24 | 10 AM–1 PM

Richmond Raceway | Richmond, VA

Registration is FREE, and everyone is welcome! Whether you'd like to walk, volunteer, form a team, sponsor, or simply show your support, there's a place for you.

Register or learn more: https://www.parkinson.org/events/2026/md-richmond-va

Organizations & Resources Mentioned:

• Parkinson's Foundation
• Parkinson's Foundation Mid-Atlantic Chapter
• Moving Day Richmond
• Medical Society of Virginia
• VCU Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center
• PD GENEration – Genetic Testing & Research
• Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research

An inspiring conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the power of a community coming together to make a difference.

CORRECTION: During our discussion about genetic testing and Parkinson’s disease, we referenced “GABA” when the intended term was “GBA,” a gene associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. We wanted to clarify this for our listeners to ensure the information shared is accurate.

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

What if the secret to growing your business isn’t selling harder — but connecting better?

In this episode of River City Podcast, Jess sits down with Anna Sothen, founder of RVA Connected, publisher with Best Version Media, entrepreneur, community builder, and the woman who has earned the nickname “The Human Rolodex.”

Anna has built her business — and much of her life — around one simple idea: when someone says, “I need…,” she wants to be the person who knows exactly who can help.

Anna shares how she went from being a health coach, yoga instructor, and Reiki practitioner to becoming a publisher and one of Richmond’s most recognizable connectors. She and Jess dive into what good networking actually looks like, why walking into a room trying to sell is usually the wrong approach, how to make yourself memorable, the importance (and challenge!) of following up, and why your competitors can sometimes become your greatest assets.

They also talk about RVA Connected, Anna’s work with Best Version Media, the power of community-based marketing, and why businesses that genuinely invest in the communities they serve can build stronger, more lasting brands.

Plus, Anna and Jess discover they may have more in common than either realized — including a love of high-energy networking, an aversion to administrative work, and the need for a little structure to keep their “floaty” entrepreneurial personalities on track.

In this episode:
• Why Anna calls herself a “human Rolodex”
• How RVA Connected grew out of her publishing business
• The biggest mistakes people make at networking events
• Why networking should be about helping, not pitching
• How to make genuine connections people remember
• Why competitors can actually be valuable business allies
• The importance of follow-up — even when you’re terrible at it
• How community involvement builds brand recognition and goodwill
• How Best Version Media connects businesses with Richmond-area neighborhoods
• Anna’s philosophy on leadership, relationships, and finding harmony instead of “balance”

Connect with Anna Sothen:

Website: RVA Connected
Facebook: Search Anna Sothen / RVA Connected
Instagram: instagram.com/annasothenrvaconnected
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annasothenrvaconnected

Anna’s advice if you’re new to Richmond, growing a business, or simply want to become better connected?

Call her. She’ll connect you.

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

What if one of the biggest risks to your business isn't financial, legal or cybersecurity-related — but leadership?

In this episode, Jess Ellett sits down with Dr. Carlos Rios-Collazo, Founder and Managing Principal of Axium-27™ LLC, for a fascinating conversation about leadership, performance and what it really means to protect the organization you've worked so hard to build.

Dr. Carlos brings nearly three decades of leadership and protection experience to the conversation, including six years with the United States Secret Service Presidential Protective Division, senior leadership roles within the federal Inspector General community and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, where he retired as Assistant Director for Investigations.

Today, he applies those experiences to helping executives, organizations and business owners strengthen leadership performance and build what he calls leadership capital.

Jess and Dr. Carlos talk about the leadership lessons that come from protecting presidents and critical institutions, why successful business owners don't automatically become successful leaders, and the difference between simply managing people and truly leading them.

They also dig into:

• Why leadership should be viewed as a form of business protection
• What "leadership capital" means and how organizations build it
• The warning signs that leadership may be breaking down
• Whether great leaders are born or developed
• The difference between management and leadership
• Why communication → connection → influence matters
• Influence versus simply getting compliance because you're in charge
• How leadership performance can actually be evaluated
• Dr. Carlos's Principled Leadership Performance Assurance™ (PLPA™) framework
• Why principled leadership, accountability and trust directly affect organizational performance
• Practical changes business owners can make to become stronger leaders

After a career spent protecting presidents, institutions and critical infrastructure, Carlos brings a unique perspective to the idea that strong leadership isn't simply about getting better results — it's about protecting what you've built.

Learn more about Dr. Carlos Rios-Collazo and Axium-27™ LLC:

Website: https://www.axium-27.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-e-rios-collazo-phd

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

Your roof is one of the biggest investments protecting your home—but how do you know who to trust when it’s time for a repair or replacement?

In this episode of River City Podcast, Jess sits down with Tucker and Meredith Slater, owners of Crown Roofing, a locally owned, family-run roofing company serving Central Virginia. They share what homeowners should know before hiring a roofer, including the red flags to watch for, why the cheapest estimate isn’t always the best deal, and what should actually be included in a roofing quote.

Tucker and Meredith also break down roof inspections, storm and hail damage, insurance claims, warranties, repairs versus replacement, and why getting multiple estimates matters. Plus, they explain what it means to work with a GAF Master Elite certified contractor and why having an experienced professional physically inspect your roof can reveal problems that technology alone may miss.

Whether your roof is showing its age, you’ve recently been through a major storm, or you simply want to be better prepared before a problem happens, this episode is packed with practical advice every homeowner can use.

To reach out to Crown Roofing, visit them online at: 

www.crownroofingva.com

To follow Crown Roofing on social media, visit them on FB at:

https://www.facebook.com/CrownRoofingVA/

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

Episode Description

What happens when women step outside their comfort zones and discover the world—and themselves?

In this episode, Jessica and Dr. Amy Harris sit down with Donnie Belau, founder of Girls' Guide to the World, to discuss how travel can transform confidence, create lifelong friendships, and improve overall wellness.

Together they explore the power of meaningful connections between women, why solo travel isn't really solo, and how experiencing different cultures can broaden perspectives and inspire personal growth. Dr. Harris also shares fascinating research on the physical and mental health benefits of travel, from reducing stress and burnout to improving relationships, productivity, and even longevity.

Whether you're dreaming of an international adventure or simply looking for permission to prioritize your own well-being, this conversation is a reminder that taking time for yourself isn't a luxury—it's an investment in becoming the best version of yourself.

This episode was originally released as part of our retired Flip-Flops & Tiaras podcast. To preserve these conversations and keep them available for listeners, we've archived them here on the River City Podcast.

To learn more about Dr. Aimee Harris and Dimensional Wellness:

www.thedimensionalwellness.com

To learn more and to sign up for Wellness Retreats:

https://www.thedimensionalwellness.com/wellness-retreats

To follow Dimensional Wellness on Social Media:

www.facebook.com/thedimensionalwellness

www.instagram.com/dimensional.wellness

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimwellness

https://www.snapchat.com/@dimwellness

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

What happens when you take teenagers out of their comfort zones, put down the phones, and give them the opportunity to discover just how capable they really are?

In this episode of River City Podcast, Jess sits down with David Buenrostro, Adventure Programs Manager at Blue Sky Fund, and Lily, a participant turned guide, to explore how outdoor adventure is helping Richmond-area youth build confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and meaningful connections.

From five-day backpacking trips through Grayson Highlands and summiting Virginia’s highest peak to paddling the James River, community service, and learning to work as a team, Blue Sky Fund creates experiences that challenge young people physically and mentally while giving them the space to grow.

Lily shares firsthand how the program changed her relationship with the outdoors, helped her navigate difficult moments in her own life, and taught her that she could do hard things—and do them alongside others.

David also shares how Blue Sky Fund is making these opportunities accessible to young people throughout the Richmond area, what it takes to safely operate these programs, and how families, volunteers, and donors can help support their mission.

It’s a conversation about much more than hiking and camping. It’s about giving young people the confidence to use their voices, lead, connect with others, serve their communities, and carry those lessons with them long after they leave the trail.

To learn more about Blue Sky Fund, visit them online at:

https://blueskyfund.org/

Follow them on Social Media at:

FB: www.facebook.com/BlueSkyFund

IG: www.instagram.com/blueskyfund

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-sky-fund/

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

In this episode of River City Podcast, Jess sits down with returning guest Dr. Aimee Harris of Dimensional Wellness and personal trainer Daniela Bowen for a powerful conversation about what many are calling “The Strong Girl Era.”

Together they explore the science behind strength training, longevity, and women’s health across the lifespan. The conversation breaks down the difference between lifespan and healthspan, why muscle is becoming one of the strongest predictors of healthy aging, and how strength training supports not just the body—but also brain health, metabolism, and emotional resilience.

They also tackle common misconceptions about women lifting weights, discuss how strength training impacts hormones during perimenopause and menopause, and share practical insights on how women can start building strength at any age.

This episode is all about shifting the focus from simply living longer to living stronger, healthier, and more independently for years to come.

Discussions on this podcast are informed by the Dimensional Wellness Matrix™, a wellness framework developed by Dr. Aimee Harris that integrates the eight dimensions of wellness to support whole-person wellbeing.

To learn more about Dr. Aimee Harris and Dimensional Wellness:

www.thedimensionalwellness.com

To learn more and to sign up for Wellness Retreats:

https://www.thedimensionalwellness.com/wellness-retreats

To follow Dimensional Wellness on Social Media:

www.facebook.com/thedimensionalwellness

www.instagram.com/dimensional.wellness

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimwellness

https://www.snapchat.com/@dimwellness

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

In this episode of the River City Podcast, we’re sitting down with the guys behind The Brew 2 — the owners of one of Snowshoe’s most talked-about vacation rentals and the masterminds behind the internet-famous “tiny deck.”

What started as a fun mountain getaway turned into a viral brand, a wildly successful short-term rental, and a social media following built on humor, authenticity, and not taking themselves too seriously. We talk about how the Snowshoe condo came to be, where the tiny deck joke originated, what it’s really like owning a vacation rental in Snowshoe, and how leaning into personality can turn something small into something unforgettable.

This episode is full of laughs, real talk about entrepreneurship, friendship, creativity—and proof that sometimes your biggest win comes from your smallest feature.

🍻 Grab a drink and enjoy the conversation.

🔗 Connect with The Brew 2 or Rent the Tiny Deck Condo:

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Website: thebrew2.com
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/the_brew_2
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/thebrew2
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.brew.2

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!

In this powerful and insightful episode, Jess talks to Brennan Hilleary about unpacking what’s really driving burnout across today’s workplaces—and what business leaders can do to reverse it. Our guest dives into the human and cultural factors that quietly drain energy, creativity, and motivation inside organizations, and offers practical ways to rebuild balance and resilience from the inside out.

We explore:

• The three root causes of burnout and how leaders can spot them before they spread.
• Common culture mistakes business owners make when scaling their teams—and how to build environments that support well-being and performance.
• The leadership balancing act between empathy and accountability, and how to master both without losing authority or trust.
• Why work-life balance isn’t just personal—it’s a business strategy that impacts retention, innovation, and profitability.
• The real ROI of investing in your team, and why the most successful companies put people first.
• What it means to bring in a Fractional Chief Wellness Officer (CWO) and how this emerging role can transform organizational health.
• Plus, a personal look at our guest’s own story—the journey through burnout, self-discovery, and rebuilding a life and business that thrive.

If you’re a business owner, team leader, or entrepreneur looking to create a healthier, more sustainable work culture, this episode is packed with insights that could change the way you lead.

To learn more about Brennan:

Get My Time and Energy Back

Building With Brennan is a free newsletter Designed For High Achievers Who Feel Like Work is Consuming Their Life Prevent Burnout & Start Creating More Fulfillment

Confirm Your Free Subscription Now

Other Social Media Links:

Social Media Links

Learn more about Brennan and Build Your Power LLC: 

www.build-your-power.com

Thanks for listening to River City Podcast!  A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!