SML Buzz

In this episode of The SML Buzz Podcast , PJ Belle sits down with  Matt Karris , President of the Board of Directors for the Smith Mountain Lake Center, to talk about his inspiring journey from New York City to the calm beauty of Smith Mountain Lake. Matt shares how a vacation home turned into a permanent move during the pandemic, the serendipitous family connections that brought him clo...

Summary In this encore episode of SML Buzz, PJ Belle is joined by Brent Hisey and Carla Essray of Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Brent and Carla highlight the importance of outdoor activities for children, and the various events and volunteer work that strengthen community ties around Smith Mountain Lake. They highlight educational programs at the state park and share insights on futur...

In this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, PJ talks with Carol Young and Morgan Jamison from Healing Strides of Virginia. They discuss the transformative power of equine therapy and the  therapeutic benefits of horses for individuals with various challenges. Carol and Morgan also share their personal stories and the importance of community support. The episode also highlights upcoming events an...

Summary In this episode of SML Buzz, PJ Belle interviews Karen Jones, the Director of the Agape Center of Smith Mountain Lake. They discuss Karen's journey to the lake, her involvement with the Agape Center, and the significant impact the center has on the community. The conversation highlights the various fundraising efforts, the history and growth of the Agape Center, and the outreach programs t...

This episode of the SML Buzz Podcast welcomes Vicki Gardner, longtime Smith Mountain Lake resident, business leader, and survivor of the 2015 on-air shooting that shocked the nation.  Vicki shares her journey from upstate New York to influential positions in local tourism and business, including her transformative work as Executive Director of the SML Chamber of Commerce. She recounts the har...

In this engaging conversation, PJ and Jen Rowland discuss Jen's journey from being a licensed counselor to a leadership consultant. They explore the importance of self-awareness in leadership, the development of Jen's new book 'Chasing Wide Open', and her passion for helping leaders grow. The conversation also touches on community engagement and upcoming events in the Smith Mountain Lake area. 🐝...

In this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, Lorie Smith, Vice-Chair of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors joins PJ Belle to talk about the current and future developments in and around the Westlake Area of Smith Mountain Lake. Lori Smith’s Background & Connection to Smith Mountain Lake Lori and her family have lived at Smith Mountain Lake for about 13 years, moving from Waynesboro in the Sh...

In this encore episode of SML Buzz, host PJ Bell interviews Angela Sherfield, the manager of Mango's at Smith Mountain Lake. Angela shares her journey from Virginia Beach to managing a popular local restaurant, discussing her extensive experience in the service industry. The conversation highlights various community events hosted by Mango's, including charity competitions and music festivals. Ange...

This episode of SML Buzz, hosted by PJ Belle, spotlights Ruth Simonet, board member of ONE Forest School, located near Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia. The conversation begins with technical hiccups and lighthearted banter about names and personal backgrounds, setting a friendly and informal tone for the show. About One Forest School One Forest School is a nonprofit educational organization founded...

In this engaging conversation, Kristin Dunker shares her journey from New Jersey to Smith Mountain Lake, her experiences as a small business owner, and the creation of 'The Current', a positive news publication that connects local businesses with the community. She discusses the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of supporting local businesses, and her vision for the fut...

Summary In this episode of SML Buzz, PJ Belle is joined by Brent Hisey and Carla Essray of Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Brent and Carla highlight the importance of outdoor activities for children, and the various events and volunteer work that strengthen community ties around Smith Mountain Lake. They highlight educational programs at the state park and share insights on future plans...

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A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode

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In this episode of "SML Buzz," host PJ Bell converses with Jason Hodnett, general manager of Mangos Bar and Grill, about the bustling holiday season at Smith Mountain Lake. They discuss the influx of visitors during Thanksgiving and Christmas, boosting local businesses. Jason introduces new monthly wine dinners at Mangos, trivia nights, live music, and the annual SML Chili Festival. Emphasizing co...

A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode

A brief summary of this episode