Behind the Bower

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood explores the transformative power of art in education with art teacher Emily and her students from Staunton River High School. Emily, with 31 years of teaching experience, shares her journey and the joy of fostering creativity in her classroom. Students Nate and Lexie discuss their artistic inspirations and personal growth through art. The conv...

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin introduces Jennifer Coffman, a new instructor at the Bower Center for the Arts and a counseling intern at Kairos Counseling. They delve into the significance of mindfulness and discuss Jennifer's upcoming class, "Stepping into Mindfulness." Jennifer shares her extensive background in clinical mental health counseling and music therapy, emphasi...

In the first 2025 episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin from the Bower Center for the Arts discusses arts and community events. She introduces Sabrina East, owner of "Jump Into Mystery," who shares her journey from hobbyist to business owner. Sabrina details her company's murder mystery events, including the upcoming "Fatal Flashback: A Prom to Die For," and emphasizes the importance of p...

In this episode of Behind The Bower, host Susan Martin sits down with Ryan Steffen, the new Communications and Guest Relations Coordinator, and Lauren Hood, the Program Coordinator. They chat about their experiences at the Bower Center over the past year and share what they're excited about for 2025. From standout events like Bourbon and Blues and Art of Pairing to community outreach efforts and n...

On this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Susan Martin chats with Brenda Gay Simmons and Katie about the Bower Center for the Arts' Emerging Artist Residency Program. Brenda opens up about getting back into art after raising her family and her unique approach to painting with coffee. Katie, who chairs the residency program, shares how it’s all about supporting artists from all walks of...

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin chats with Megan Huffman, the director of Share Greater Lynchburg, about connecting the community with local nonprofits and supporting local artists. They dive into how Share Greater Lynchburg got started during the COVID-19 pandemic, its reach across the region, and how it helps nonprofits collaborate and share resources. They also talk about...

In this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Susan Martin interviews Linda Parker, founder of the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. The center honors 38 Bedford Boys who died in World War II. Linda shares how she and her husband, Ken, were inspired to create the museum after attending the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The center educates visitors about the soldiers' sacrifices through artifacts a...

In this episode of Behind the Bower, Susan Martin sits down with Paul, co-owner of PS Woodworkx and Designs. Paul talks about his journey from being a truck driver to pursuing his passion for woodworking, focusing on repurposing wood to create one-of-a-kind home and garden decor. He also shares how he and his wife, Stephanie, collaborate on their projects and enjoy showcasing their work at local m...

In this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, co-hosts Susan Martin and Lauren Hood engage with the members of New Standard Bluegrass—Spencer, Zach, Stuart, and Robert. The discussion covers the band's dedication to traditional bluegrass and gospel music, their individual musical journeys, and their formation. Memorable moments include humorous performance anecdotes and collaborations with blue...

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood converses with Liberty High School students Olivia and Everett, and their art teacher Melissa. They discuss the profound impact of art on the students' lives, both in and out of the classroom. Olivia shares her passion for acrylic painting, while Everett talks about his love for photography and digital art. Melissa reflects on her journey into...

In this episode of Behind the Bower, Susan Martin, Executive Director of the Bower Center for the Arts, and Lauren Hood, Program Coordinator, discuss the center's mission to celebrate human experiences through arts and culture. They highlight the growth of programming since Lauren joined, overcoming challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Upcoming events include "Art on Tap," needle felting wor...

In this episode of "Behind the Bower," host Susan Martin from the Bower Center for the Arts interviews Americana folk and blues singer-songwriter David Starr. They discuss David's extensive music career, his songwriting process, and the significance of arts centers in small communities. David shares stories about his musical journey, including collaborations with renowned artists and his passion f...

In this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Susan Martin from the Bower Center for the Arts engages in a conversation with Carrie White, Chief Nursing Officer of Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital. Carrie shares her 17-year nursing journey with Centra and discusses the hospital's community health initiatives, particularly focusing on stroke awareness and prevention. They highlight the upco...