The U is Silent; We Aren’t

Developer Robin Miller joins us to reveal how Staunton’s historic buildings are getting new life—thanks to the power of preservation, tax credits, and a little creative vision. Hear about the hidden gems behind old walls and why saving the past is shaping the city’s next chapter. This episode is a masterclass in how preservation meets progress.

From the brick facades of Beverley Street to the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley's scenery is Noelia Núñez’ palette. Dive into her creative painting process, learn how social media catapulted her work, and hear why she keeps community and culture at the heart of every brushstroke.

What happens when you grow up with country music royalty—and decide to carve your own path without forgetting your roots? In this episode, country duo Wilson Fairchild (Wil and Langdon Reid) take us behind the scenes of their musical journey, from writing heartfelt lyrics to reviving Staunton’s beloved Happy Birthday America celebration. With trademark humor and undeniable harmony, they share stories of growing up as sons of the Statler Brothers, the hilarities of the road, and why staying grounded in Staunton, Virginia is their secret sauce. It’s a conversation about family, legacy, and discovering a rhythm all your own.

How does a kid mowing lawns in West Virginia end up launching a bestselling game and building a creativity-fueled business hub in Staunton, VA? Peter Denbigh gets real about idea execution, building a killer team, and why small towns might just be the next big thing in innovation.

Danielle McEwen reveals why Staunton isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a catalyst. From tackling anxiety and entrepreneurship myths to harnessing the power of storytelling, she offers a blueprint for showing up, standing out, and leading with heart.

From small-town roots to national acclaim, Ian Boden’s story is anything but ordinary. Hear how this 3x James Beard nominated chef took the path less traveled—and added a little fire along the way. We talk culinary passion, rebellious flavors, and how Staunton became the epicenter of food innovation in the Shenandoah Valley.

Steve Powell, President of Buckingham Branch and Virginia Scenic Railway, joins us to talk about Staunton’s rail renaissance—from freight roots to unforgettable scenic excursions. Learn why train travel still captures hearts, how history is honored on every ride, and what’s next for this growing experience.

What's the world's first recreation of Shakespeare's Blackfriars Theatre doing in a small, rural city in Virginia? In Episode 3, we dive into the world of theatre with Vanessa Morosco, Executive Director of the American Shakespeare Center and Blackfriars Playhouse. Vanessa takes us behind the curtain of one of America’s most extraordinary cultural spaces, discussing everything from the reimagining of Elizabethan staging practices to the vital role theatre plays in fostering community. Discover how live, unplugged performances and innovative storytelling are breaking down barriers and inviting audiences to experience Shakespeare today.

It's often said you can't teach passion, but we've found that's not quite true. In Episode 2, we sit down with Heifetz Music Institute's President and CEO, Benjamin Roe, to discuss how this renowned classical music institute came to welcome the world's most talented and promising young musicians to the town of Staunton, VA every summer and, in the process, establish artistic identity for performers and the community, alike. 

Sarah Lynch is the founder of the Queen City Mischief and Magic festival and owner of Baja Bean. Sarah reflects on how she took an idea for a community book release party to a gathering of 40,000 wizards, witches, and muggles in a small Virginian town.