Arkansas Minds

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Jensen, Director of Development at the Get Real program under the Fort Smith Children’s Shelter Foundation. We talked about what it’s like supporting young adults aging out of foster care, how trauma shows up in resilience, and why simple things like a bed or a driver’s test can be life-changing. I really enjoyed this one, and I think you’ll...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Emily Vernon, Clinical Director at The Griffin Promise Autism Clinic and the only certified Spelling to Communicate (S2C) practitioner in Arkansas. We talked about what it really means to support neurodivergent individuals without trying to change who they are, how she helps families reframe the way they see autism, and why small wins in ther...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Chandler Doss, VP and Branch Manager at First Community Mortgage. We talked about her personal money story—from childhood financial security to the shock of navigating single motherhood after the loss of both parents. Chandler opened up about the lessons she had to learn the hard way, how she found her way into mortgage lending, and why real...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Jazmine and Annie, the creative duo behind Anne Marie’s Collective—a photography brand built on friendship, fierce talent, and a shared love for storytelling. We talked about how their friendship blossomed into a business, how they balance motherhood and artistry, and what it really means to be invited into people’s most important moments. I...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with  Tiffany DeVries , Youth Services Librarian at the Fort Smith Public Library. We talked about how she created Wiggle Worm Storytime, the unexpected turns in her career path, and the creative ways she’s connecting families across Fort Smith through early literacy and story-based community. I really enjoyed this one, and I think you’ll apprecia...

In this episode, I sat down with Marissa Thornberry, a visual artist and poetic storyteller based in Arkansas. We talked about how she discovered her gift for painting later in life, what hands and flowers symbolize in her work, and why art has become a personal rebellion against the lie that “you don’t matter.” Marissa also opened up about resilience, faith, and rebuilding life from scratch after...

In this episode, I sat down for part two with Gabrielle Mooney—Arkansas-based country singer-songwriter and sister of Shay Mooney from Dan + Shay. We picked up right where we left off: the night she flatlined in Fort Smith and somehow lived to tell the story. Gabrielle opened up about her brain surgery, near-death experience, and how God lined up every moment to bring her back to life—literally. S...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Gabrielle Mooney, a singer-songwriter with deep Arkansas roots and a powerful testimony of faith, family, and finding her voice. We talked about how growing up in a Southern gospel family shaped her artistry, how she reconciled her spirituality after breaking away from religious tradition, and how music has always been her safe place—even thr...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Amanda Hager, Director of Main Street Fort Smith. We talked about what it really takes to bring a downtown back to life, from restoring historic buildings to making space for new energy and community connection. Amanda breaks down misconceptions about Fort Smith’s downtown and shares why she’s more motivated than ever to make it a destination...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Molly Radhakrishnan, a multi-market Arkansas real estate agent and the voice behind Make a Move with Molly. We talked about how she transitioned from a 15-year career in healthcare to real estate, and why helping families break generational curses through homeownership fuels her every day. I really enjoyed this one, and I think you’ll appreci...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Erica Bankston, co-owner of Heritage Group Real Estate. We talked about what it’s like to lead one of the fastest-growing real estate teams in Arkansas, navigating identity in the shadow of a well-known family, and how she learned to stop “protecting herself” from real relationships. Erica shared her journey from starting a fitness business w...

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Ashleigh Buckley, an attorney and the founder of The Buckley Firm, who also serves as Vice President for the Sebastian County Bar Association. We talked about advocating for people who feel like they don’t have a voice, navigating a male-dominated field, and the emotional weight of prosecuting child abuse cases. It was a real conversation abo...

In this episode, we sit down with Emily, a content manager turned Director of Marketing at Discover Fort Smith, who shares her incredible journey of winding career paths, life-changing experiences abroad, and reflections on burnout, career shifts, and finding balance. From her time teaching in Mississippi to her love for theater, French, and marketing, Emily’s story highlights resilience and self-...

In this episode, we talk to Kerrie Taber, an author and educator whose incredible journey led to the creation of her book, Quarantining Hate. Kerrie shares the shocking story of discovering her grandfather’s role as a World War II war criminal and how it inspired her to confront hate and fear in society. Together, we discuss the roots of prejudice, the importance of dialogue, and how small actions...

In this episode, Deondra Swanigan, founder of Swan Done LLC, dives into his journey from a passionate artist to a purpose-driven designer. Deondra talks about his philosophy, "Deeper than Design," sharing how he blends art and strategy to create meaningful visuals for brands. He touches on how design can communicate values like family, authenticity, and energy and discusses why true design goes be...

This episode dives into the journey of Brooke Cagle, a graphic designer, photographer, and worship leader, as she discusses her journey from a small-town creative to launching her own networking initiative, Segue. Brooke shares her love for gathering people, the unique story behind Segue’s founding, and how it has grown to foster community connections. Her insights on balancing her many passions,...

In this episode, we sit down with Christina Williams of Christina Williams Consulting, a marketing and PR firm based in Fort Smith. Christina shares her journey from being adopted from India and growing up in Arkansas to her career in marketing. She talks about her background in journalism, her early work in PR, and the process of starting her own business. She also gives insights on the importanc...

In this episode titled "Have I Made It...?", Winter Kasworm reflects on the meaning of success and fulfillment. She opens up about her career journey, personal growth, and the moments that made her question if she’s truly “made it.” Winter shares insights on navigating identity, balancing ambition with contentment, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery. This episode invites listeners to reflec...

In this episode, the guest, Joe, discusses his faith journey, his new book Fully Seen, Fully Loved, and the importance of knowing God’s love and acceptance. He shares personal stories of how growing up without a Christian background shaped his perceptions, and how his faith changed his life. The conversation touches on themes of self-worth, mental health, trusting in God's goodness, and living aut...

This podcast episode explores the blurred line between following church culture and truly following Jesus. Through personal stories, including the pressures of growing up as a pastor's kid (PK), we dive into how cultural expectations within the church can sometimes overshadow genuine faith. We discuss how easy it is to confuse fitting into church traditions with living for Christ and the importanc...

This week, we had an amazing roundtable conversation with Brittany and John Griffith, worship pastors at Harvest Time in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Along with my wife, Lauren, we explore the question: "Is God's love enough?" Brittany and John share their personal experiences with love, faith, and relationships—from growing up in different households to navigating love in their marriage. Lauren and I al...

In this episode, the conversation delves deep into personal journeys of faith, focusing on the challenge of staying true to one's beliefs versus constructing a personalized faith. The hosts discuss the impact of cultural and church experiences on one's understanding of Christianity, grappling with the difference between following the teachings of Jesus and the influence of personal and ext...

In this episode, Chris Middleton, founder of  Branchout Studios , shares his inspiring journey from working a corporate job to building a successful marketing agency. He talks about the challenges of moving his business to a quieter location, overcoming initial struggles, and the eventual growth of his company. Chris dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship, balancing creative ambitions w...

This episode dives into the journey of a local influencer and community leader, known for his love of Fort Smith. Starting as a radio personality, he built a community around "loving Fort Smith out loud." His story takes us through his radio days, the founding of the "Things to Do in Fort Smith" page, and his current role as an influencer. The conversation touches on his person...

In this episode, @rhyanbesco an accomplished artist and songwriter, discusses his creative journey. He dives into his early love for music, how he transitioned from a rapper to a singer, and how his gospel roots influenced his style. Rhyan shares his success as a songwriter, his experience moving to LA. He also reflects on the balance between being an artist and a songwriter, explaining how songwr...