Arkansas Minds

In this episode, the host interviews Kelsie Jo Hillis, the photographer, entrepreneur, and social media manager behind  Kelsiejophoto . Kelsie shares her journey from her early passion for photography in high school to building a thriving photography business after dropping out of college. They discuss the challenges of balancing work and family life, the importance of pursuing mentorship, and how...

In this episode, the guest, Michelle Wannemacher , shares her journey as a photographer, balancing multiple roles as a professor, pastor's wife, and mom. She discusses the unexpected start to her photography career, challenges like client horror stories, and her thoughts on the business side of photography. Michelle provides valuable insights into transitioning from hobbyist to professional, n...

In this episode, we delve into the entrepreneurial journey of Drew Defir, the owner and founder of Luna Marketing Studio. Drew discusses her background, the unique boutique approach of her marketing agency, and how she transitioned from a challenging personal period to building a successful business. She emphasizes the importance of humanizing brands, the evolving role of women in business, and sh...

This podcast episode is recorded at the US Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas, with guest Benjamin Johnson, the museum's president and CEO. The conversation delves into the history of the U.S. Marshals, their role in enforcing justice across different eras, and how the museum came to be established. Benjamin shares insights on the challenges of creating the museum, the complexities of his...

In this episode, I sit down with Isaiah Joe, the Oklahoma City Thunder guard, who shares his inspiring journey from Fort Smith, Arkansas, to the NBA. Isaiah discusses the pivotal moments in his basketball career, the importance of having the right mentors and friends, and his commitment to giving back to his community. This episode also highlights the basketball camp he hosted at his alma mater, s...

In this episode, the guest dives into the world of independent filmmaking in Arkansas. They discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with building a film community in a nontraditional location. Topics include the formation of the River Valley Film Society, the significance of short films in today’s streaming culture, and the complexities of funding and distributing indie films. The guest...

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Victoria and Eric Bragg, a dynamic married couple who run two unique businesses: Sunrise Bookkeeping and Fountain Square House Studio. We dive into their journey from personal passions in music and engineering to building a successful recording studio and bookkeeping business. They shared their early experiences in music, the move to Arkansas, an...

In this episode, the guest shares their journey of creating Fort Kids, a children’s museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas. They discuss the inspiration behind the project, the importance of connection and community, and how the museum aims to be a place where both kids and parents can engage, play, and connect. The episode touches on the challenges and motivations behind the project, the impact of COVID-...

In this episode, the podcast hosts delve into the challenges and initiatives in western Zambia. They discuss the Zambia Project, a multifaceted organization focused on church planting, Bible translation, education, and poverty alleviation. Key highlights include the transformation of villages through faith, addressing malnourishment, providing clean water, and the impact of changing belief systems...

In this episode, we sit down with Colonel Jay Spohn, commander of the 188th Wing at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas. We delve into the $1 billion investment coming to the community through the F-35 training program. Colonel Spohn explains the evolution of the 188th Wing, its current missions, and the significant impact of the new training program on the local community and e...

In this episode, Faith Myers, founder of Chaffee Strong, shares her journey from struggling with obesity to creating a supportive walk-run clinic. She discusses her personal experiences, including weight loss surgery, overcoming mental and physical hurdles, and the importance of community support. Faith explains how Chaffee Strong helps individuals of all fitness levels achieve their goals through...

In this episode, we have a conversation with George McGill, the mayor of Fort Smith, Arkansas. We explore the transformative journey of Fort Smith, the impact of its rich history, and the inspiring leadership that has shaped its present and future. Mayor McGill shares personal stories from his youth, the challenges he faced, and his vision for Fort Smith's growth. We also discuss the upcoming...

In this episode, Caitlin, co-owner of Healing Moon Farm, shares her journey from high-stress careers in Washington, DC, to creating a successful small organic farm and natural products business in Arkansas. Caitlin discusses her struggles with chronic illnesses, allergies, and the importance of reducing toxins in everyday products. She explains how her health issues led her to develop handmade soa...

In this episode, we dive into the origins and mission of the Arkansas Podcast Collaborative, the country's only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization for podcasters. Our guests discuss their experiences at the Podcast Movement conference, the importance of recognizing podcasting as an art form, and how their organization helps podcasters secure funding. We also explore the creative processes behind...

In this episode, the founders of Vinnie's Pies share their remarkable journey from operating a food truck to establishing a brick-and-mortar restaurant. They discuss how community support played a crucial role in their success, from initial backyard pop-ups to navigating the challenges of running a food truck. The conversation highlights their experiences with local events, the importance of b...

In this episode, the focus is on the Fort Smith Marshals, a new summer developmental baseball team. The conversation covers the league's structure, player recruitment, the significance of community involvement, and the future plans for the team and league expansion. Greg Kigar, the general manager, shares insights into the challenges and rewards of man. https://fortsmithmarshals.com

In this episode, Cyrus from the Home Brew Center discusses his journey from working in construction to establishing a business focused on home brewing supplies. He shares his early experiences with distillation, the transition from Grow Fresh Organics to Home Brew Center, and his passion for making mead and wine. Cyrus also talks about the legal aspects of brewing and distilling, the community ben...

In this episode with "HUM Salon," Shannon shares her remarkable journey in the beauty industry, discussing her transition from a budding photographer to a seasoned hairstylist and salon owner. The conversation delves into the evolution of her career, the lessons learned from various educational experiences, and the significance of creating a supportive salon culture. Shannon emphasizes t...

In this episode of “Arkansas Mines,” host Joe Cline interviews several vendors at the Chaffee Crossing Food & Artisans Market. Vendors share insights about their unique products, ranging from vegan bakery goods and spicy pretzels to reusable water balloons and handcrafted jellies. The episode explores their business origins, product details, and personal stories, providing an engaging glimpse...

In this episode with "Fort Smith Coffee Co.," we delve into the inspiring journey of the founders, Gabe and Katie, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of establishing their coffee business. From humble beginnings roasting coffee beans in a popcorn maker to the realization of a full-fledged coffee shop, the couple shares their experiences of entrepreneurship, community building,...

In this episode of "Arkansas Minds," Josh shares the story of his entrepreneurial journey, starting from his teenage years when he mowed lawns to fund his passion for golf, to his experience in radio sales, and eventually becoming one of the key people behind Farmer's Market Direct. Josh delves into the challenges and rewards of starting and running a unique business, discussing the...