America's Healthiest City

Richmond personal trainer Aubrey Eicher built a 3-location fitness business on one idea: the physical transformation is the least interesting part. 🔗 Try a free exploratory session: https://thewellpf.com 📍 Learn about America's Healthiest City: https://americashealthiestcity.com --- Aubrey Eicher, founder of The Well Personal Fitness, has been in the Richmond fitness and wellness space sinc...

What happens when a public health physician becomes mayor and immediately faces a massive infrastructure failure? In this riveting conversation, Dr. Danny Avula takes us behind the scenes of Richmond's recent water crises and shares his unexpected journey from medicine to municipal leadership. Just five days after taking office in January 2024, Mayor Avula found himself navigating an emergenc...

Did you know that Virginians are literally throwing away one-third of the energy we pay for? As our state faces the challenge of energy demand doubling over the next decade, understanding how to use energy efficiently has never been more critical. Rochelle Sommer, Senior Communications Specialist with the Virginia State Corporation Commission, joins us to explain how Virginia Energy Sense—the stat...

MetaFit Rx brings clinical testing usually reserved for elite athletes to everyday people seeking longevity and improved health through data-driven approaches. Founders Melissa and David Ambrose combine physiological testing with behavioral support to help clients understand their unique metabolic profiles and implement sustainable lifestyle changes. • Clinical exercise physiologist Melissa Ambros...

Richmond's evolution into a healthier, more vibrant community flows directly through the Virginia Capital Trail, a 52-mile pathway connecting the city to Williamsburg that has transformed how residents experience outdoor recreation and community connection. Kat Anthony, Executive Director of the Capital Trail Foundation, brings her passion for outdoor accessibility to her role overseeing this...

Lance Lemon shares his journey from childhood actor to Richmond entrepreneur, spotlighting his Super Bowl commercial for Penny's Wine Shop and his vision for revitalizing Jackson Ward. • Growing up in Mechanicsville with summers in Richmond gave Lance a unique perspective bridging city and country upbringings • Named Penny's Wine Shop after Maggie Walker's St. Luke Penny Savings Ban...

The final episode of America’s Healthiest City reflects on the past year’s efforts and experiences while looking ahead to new community-focused programming in 2025. Key themes include addressing youth violence, promoting out-of-school programming, and emphasizing grassroots activism as essential components in building a healthier Richmond. • Reflecting on the show’s journey and mission  • Addressi...

What if affordable housing could be the key to transforming communities and creating thriving opportunities for all? Join us as Greta Harris, President and CEO of the Better Housing Coalition, shares her remarkable journey from her roots in Danville, Virginia, to becoming a force for change in Richmond. Greta opens up about how her upbringing and her family's commitment to social justice insp...

Imagine discovering your true path after leaving behind a seemingly perfect corporate life. That's my story, and today, I’m joined by Michelle Mercurio, a dynamic creative entrepreneur, to explore the magic of personal branding and creativity. Together, we unlock the foundational importance of self-awareness, emphasizing that truly liking, knowing, and trusting oneself is essential before exp...

Sparkle Taylor joins us for an episode filled with raw honesty and inspiration, as she shares her story of resilience and growth in Richmond’s Gilpin Court. From overcoming homelessness to finding a home, Sparkle navigates the complexities of her community with a unique perspective. Her experiences during the COVID pandemic highlight how online EBT transactions provided crucial support for her and...

What if the secret to a healthier life lies not in traditional medicine, but in the food we eat? Join us for a conversation with David Wadlick, the Chief Collaboration and Programs Officer for Feedmore, as he shares his incredible journey from a 20-year career in the US Navy to reshaping community health initiatives in Richmond. With an MBA from the University of Virginia and a diverse background...

Richmond Marathon champion Rob Mazzanti joins us to share the dynamic story behind his recent victory and the vibrant city he calls home. From his formative years at the University of Richmond to his pivotal role in the tennis world, Rob's journey is marked by determination and a profound connection to Richmond. Get ready to uncover the inspiration behind his return to this lively city and ho...

Discover how childhood athleticism can pave the way for future success as we sit down with the inspiring John Lugbill, Executive Director of Sports Backers. From world champion canoeist and Olympian to a community leader making waves in Richmond, John's journey is as fascinating as it is motivating. He shares how initiatives like the "Kids on the Move" clubs are breaking barriers to...

Ever wondered how cities can truly become healthier and more equitable places to live? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jeremy Hoffman, PhD, the Director of Climate Justice and Impact at Groundwork USA. Jeremy shares his incredible journey from the Midwest to Richmond, igniting a passion for environmental science and climate justice. We uncover Richmond's ambitious plans to becom...

Racheal Cook, CEO and founder of the CEO Collective, joined us to share her inspiring journey from the world of consulting to her mission of empowering women entrepreneurs. Her personal story of reevaluation and transformation offers a powerful narrative about prioritizing a life-first business model, especially for women striving to define success on their own terms. We explore Racheal's vis...

Explore the inspiring journey of Richmond's transformation with Reggie Gordon, CEO of the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation. Discover how Reggie's roots in Richmond and his career in law and human services fuel his commitment to tackling social determinants of health. We promise you'll gain insights into the power of mentorship and life skills in empowering under-resourced communi...

Join us as Dr. Tasha Dickerson of WellcomeMD shares her journey from traditional family medicine to concierge and functional medicine, a path shaped by the rapid rise of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Dickerson delves into how personalized healthcare models are revolutionizing patient care, offering insights into the benefits of a membership model that builds strong patient-provide...

In this episode of America's Healthiest City , host Will Melton speaks with Melody Short , co-founder of the Richmond Night Market . Together, they delve into Melody's journey as a passionate advocate for Richmond's artistic and entrepreneurial communities. From her early days immersed in art across major cities to her return to Richmond to co-found the Artisan Cafe—now the Richmond...

How does one transition from aspiring to be a medical professional to leading a mission to make Richmond the healthiest city in America? Kelly del Campo Merricks , Vice President of Philanthropy at the Sheltering Arms Foundation , shares her captivating journey and what drives her to make a difference. Kelly's story unfolds from moving to Richmond for medical school, only to find her true cal...

This week on America's Healthiest City, our host Will Melton interviews Maria Carra Rose, a candidate for Richmond’s 3rd District City Council seat. Carra shares insights on her 20+ years living in North Side Richmond, her passion for community service, and what drives her to represent her neighbors in city leadership. This episode highlights the importance of being informed as Richmond appro...

In this episode of America's Healthiest City, host Will Melton sits down with Chris Frelke, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities for the City of Richmond, to explore the exciting growth of Richmond’s park system. From hidden parks waiting to be discovered to the strategic partnerships and friends-of groups that keep the city’s green spaces thriving, Chris shares the inside...

Dive into an inspiring conversation with Lark Washington, Chief Operating Officer of Maggie Walker Community Land Trust. Host Will Melton uncovers Lark’s path to MWCLT, their impactful work in expanding affordable housing in Richmond, and her optimistic vision for a future where everyone has access to safe and affordable homes. 🏠 Listen now to explore how MWCLT is tackling the housing crisis, bui...

In this episode, we speak with Josh Stutz, Executive Director of **Friends of the James River Park**, who takes us behind the scenes of Richmond’s beloved park system. Josh shares insights on the park’s $800,000+ budget, the importance of community fundraising, and the comprehensive master plan designed to keep the parks vibrant and accessible. We also discuss the vital role the James River plays...

In this episode, Will Melton sits down with Myra Goodman-Smith, the Executive Director of Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR), to discuss their recent community leader awardees and celebrate Myra’s impactful career as she prepares for retirement. They explore her legacy within the organization, the influence of LMR on the Richmond community, and what the future holds for this essential leadership prog...

Ever wondered how a seasoned engineer transitions into a pivotal community leader with an unwavering commitment to societal impact? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Todd Waldo , Vice President of the Shockoe Institute , as he shares his journey from the heart of South Carolina to the vibrant city of Richmond. Inspired by the sacrifices of his parents and driven by a passion for commun...