Discover Fort Smith

Step behind the baton with John Jeter, music director and conductor of the Fort Smith Symphony! In this inspiring episode, John shares how he transformed a modest community orchestra into a nationally celebrated, award-winning symphony. From educational programs like EarQuake and Bluegrass Live! to performing film scores like Harry Potter and Skyfall, discover how John is bringing innovation, acce...

In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Chris and Lolly Swicegood — a dynamic husband-and-wife musical duo with rich roots in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and a story that spans continents. From serendipitous connections and global adventures to performing in unique venues like creek-side concerts and haunted hotels, Chris and Lolly open up about their creative journey, musical influences, and why...

Step inside the sonic sanctuary of Sol Studios in Fort Smith, Arkansas, with owner Grant Thomas. In this episode, Grant shares the inspiring journey behind Sol Studios—from humble beginnings to a state-of-the-art analog-meets-digital recording haven. Hear about the intentional design that turns heads, how Fort Smith became a hidden destination for Grammy-nominated artists, and the studio’s involve...

🎙️ Join us on this heartwarming and music-packed episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast as we sit down with the legendary Larry Beadle—better known as Larry B! 🎹🎤 With over 60 years in the music industry, Larry shares his incredible journey from his musical roots in Springfield, Missouri, to his iconic performances in Fort Smith, and beyond. From jamming with blues icons to working with lege...

🎤 Attorney, advocate, mom, and community builder—Ashleigh Buckley wears a lot of hats in Fort Smith! In this inspiring episode, Ashleigh shares her journey from a small-town girl in Pocola to becoming a successful lawyer and co-founder of the future Fort Kids Children’s Museum. Learn how her passion for creativity led her to the courtroom, why she believes in empowering youth through mock trial c...

🎧 Meet Kristan Moseley, the heart behind the mission at Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs. In this uplifting episode, Kristan shares her powerful personal journey—from overcoming food insecurity and isolation to becoming a community leader advocating for youth equity. Learn how the Boys & Girls Clubs are doing so much more than “babysitting”—offering affordable programs like STEM and arts edu...

📚 Join us for a heartwarming and eye-opening conversation with Tiffany DeVries, the Youth Services Librarian at the Fort Smith Public Library! In this episode, Tiffany shares her journey from business major to passionate librarian, the endless resources the library offers beyond books, and the vital role the library plays in connecting the Fort Smith community. From baby storytimes and summer rea...

🎙️ In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast, hosts Emily and Josh sit down with creative entrepreneur and powerhouse videographer Joe Cline! From his early days in Brinkley, Arkansas, to making six figures through YouTube, Joe shares his journey into videography, his passion for community, and how his podcast  Arkansas Minds  is shining a light on local entrepreneurs. Hear his insight on...

In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, we sit down with Tonya Sarlis, Vice President of Operations at the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, to explore the vital role the Chamber plays in economic development, business growth, and leadership programs in our community.📢 What you’ll learn in this episode:✅ How the Chamber supports small businesses & entrepreneurs✅ The impac...

Join us for an exciting episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast as we sit down with Caroline Speir, Executive Director of the Fort Smith Museum of History! Caroline takes us on a journey through Fort Smith’s rich past, from the museum’s origins in 1910 to the legendary stories of Judge Parker, Bass Reeves, and General William O. Darby. We explore how Fort Smith’s history is preserved, the influ...

Rev up for this special episode of the  Discover Fort Smith Podcast  as we sit down with  Dennis Snow  and  Dr. Wes Milam  to talk about the  Steel Horse Rally —one of the biggest motorcycle rallies in the region! 🏍️🔥 Learn how this  family-friendly event  started, its  economic impact on Fort Smith , and the  charitable causes it supports , including  veterans and children’s organizations . Denn...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Sara Strom, President of Fort Kids Children’s Museum, as she shares her journey and the vision behind creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging space for children and families in Fort Smith. Sara discusses how play is essential for childhood development, the museum’s STEM-focused exhibits, and how the community can support this incredible initiative. Learn...

Step back in time with Cody Faber, National Park Ranger at the Fort Smith National Historic Site! 🏛️ In this episode, Cody shares his deep passion for Fort Smith’s rich history, from its early days as a military fort to its role in the Wild West. Tune in to hear:🔹 The true stories of Judge Parker, outlaws, and deputy marshals🔹 The Trail of Tears connection and Fort Smith’s impact on Native Ameri...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Bridget Duncan, Digital Media Coordinator at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM)! 🎨 Bridget shares her journey as an artist, her role in promoting local and regional art, and why she chose to stay in Fort Smith after college. In this episode, we explore:🔹 The history and mission of RAM as a free, accessible space for the community🔹 How art impacts...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Michael Mings, Mobility Coordinator for the City of Fort Smith! 🚴‍♂️💡 Michael shares his passion for making Fort Smith more connected through biking and walkability initiatives. From his experiences in Fayetteville with the Razorback Regional Greenway to leading the Ride for Smilies bike share program and the All Kids Bike initiative, Michael is dedicat...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Madison Marsh, Miss America 2024, and Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, as she shares her incredible journey from growing up in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to making a difference through her Whitney Marsh Foundation. Madison opens up about her family’s enduring support, her mother’s battle with pancreatic cancer, and how Fort Smith shaped her values and...

Dive into the heart of Fort Smith with Trent Goins, a community leader and music enthusiast. Born and raised in Fort Smith, Trent shares his inspiring journey from working in Washington, D.C., to returning home and revitalizing the local music and arts scene. Learn about his ventures, including the iconic Majestic venue, the Peacemaker Music Festival, and his vision for the future of Fort Smith's...

Join us as we sit down with Dawn Childress, a dedicated principal in the Fort Smith Public School system. Dawn shares her journey from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Fort Smith, her love for the community, and how the local schools are shaping future generations. Explore the innovative programs like the Peak Innovation Center, mentorship opportunities, and the partnerships between schools and local industrie...

In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast , we sit down with Rachel Cannon, the Executive Chef and Director of Operations at Stone House in Chaffee Crossing. Rachel shares her inspiring journey from a childhood in Fort Smith to culinary school and working in cities like Nashville, Philadelphia, and even Italy. Learn about her unique approach to fine dining, the history behind Stone House,...

In this episode, we sit down with Mayor George McGill of Fort Smith, Arkansas, to explore the rich history, vibrant community, and incredible future of this unique city. From his family’s deep roots in Fort Smith to his vision for the city’s development, Mayor McGill shares heartwarming stories, key initiatives, and exciting projects shaping the region. Discover why Fort Smith is described as “mag...

In this episode, Ashleigh Bachert, Executive Director of Discover Fort Smith, shares her journey to Fort Smith and her passion for making the city a vibrant destination. Learn how Ashleigh and her team work to enhance Fort Smith’s economy, promote tourism, and create unforgettable memories for visitors and residents alike. From rebranding to unique community experiences, Ashleigh delves into the c...

In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, we chat with Amanda Hager, the Executive Director of Main Street Fort Smith. Amanda shares her journey back to Fort Smith and her passion for revitalizing the city’s historic downtown. Learn about the vibrant districts, exciting events like the Levitt AMP music series, and opportunities for local businesses to thrive. From urban art to family-fri...

In this debut episode, meet Josh and Emily as they share their passion for Fort Smith, Arkansas, and why they love calling it home. From fascinating historical sites like the National Historic Site to community-focused initiatives and live music at venues like The Majestic, this podcast highlights the people, places, and events that make Fort Smith special. Hear their personal stories, from starti...

Dive into insightful conversations, insider tips, and inspiring stories from passionate Fort Smith residents. Find out what makes Fort Smith, Arkansas a truly unique place to live, work, and play! From history and art to hidden gems and future plans, we'll explore it all. Subscribe now to Discover Fort Smith, Arkansas, like never before! ------------------------------------------------------------...