District 3 Podcast

This week on the District 3 Podcast , Irvin sits down with one of Northwest Arkansas’ rising artists — Mar Loroña . Mar has been gaining attention locally, recently participating in the Bentonville Fashion Show and releasing his newest single “Tenerte,” along with a beautifully shot music video. In this episode, we talk about his journey coming to the United States, how music became such a big par...

In this episode of the District 3 Podcast , host Irvin sits down with local comedian The Frisco Kid, Francisco Valencia , for a conversation about what’s been going on in his world lately. They talk about his upcoming comedy special, his new podcast, and the journey he’s been on both in and out of comedy. While there are still plenty of laughs along the way, the conversation also touches on some m...

Arkansas legend Papa Rap pulls up to District 3 and it’s bigger than music. Fresh off the announcement of new music dropping this year and being honored as an entrant into the Arkansas Latino Hall of Fame, Papa Rap sits down with Irvin for a real conversation about community, culture, and legacy. They break down Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show , reflect on his musical journey, and talk about...

Irvin sits down with Fort Smith mayoral candidate Vampire Shayne McKinney for one of the most entertaining conversations of the election season. They get into Shayne’s run for mayor, his Airbnbs, the viral TikTok following that’s pushing half a million fans, and the questions everyone secretly wants answered: Team Edward or Team Jacob? Does he actually drink blood? And what’s his take on the recen...

On this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin sits down with Lauren Clary, founder of Vault Social — a marketing agency specializing in influencer relations and brand growth. Lauren shares her journey of building Vault Social and breaks down how strategic marketing and authentic influencer partnerships can help brands stand out in today’s crowded digital world. From practical branding tips to i...

In this episode of the District 3 Podcast , host Irvin Camacho sits down with U.S. Senate candidate Hallie Shoffner for a wide-ranging conversation about her run for Senate in Arkansas and the vision driving her campaign. Shoffner discusses what it’s like to take on an entrenched incumbent, responds to social media attacks from Tom Cotton , and shares how her background as a farmer and small-busin...

In this episode of the District 3 Podcast , Irvin and Miggs sit down with Northwest Arkansas–based visual artist and author Zeke Peña . They dive into his creative journey, the food and culture that inspire his work, and his newest book, SunDust . It’s a fun, laid-back conversation that gives you a closer look at a truly talented artist and the stories behind his art

District 3 Podcast – Episode ft. Ramon Balderas This week on the District 3 Podcast, hosts Irvin and Miggs sit down with Ramon Balderas—an essential contributor to student success at the University of Arkansas. As a longtime Student Development Specialist and campus leader, Ramon has supported countless students through mentorship, guidance, and advocacy. In this episode, he shares his own educati...

This week on the District 3 Podcast , Irvin, Miggs, and Elena sit down with Northwest Arkansas’ newest resident — and VinePair’s Best New Bartender of 2025 — the incredible new Beverage Director at Yeyo’s Mexican Restaurant, Daniela Pedraza. We dive into her journey from Missouri to NWA, the roots of her passion for drink alchemy, and what it’s been like stepping into the region’s vibrant culinary...

On this week’s episode of the District 3 Podcast , hosts Irvin, Miggs, and Elena sit down with one of the most intriguing young artists emerging from the scene right now — JP . At only 18 years old , JP is already redefining what it means to be a versatile performer. After spending the last few years mastering the traditional world of Mariachi , he’s now stepping boldly into a new era of his artis...

In this powerful episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin, Elena, and Miggs sit down with immigration attorney Nathan Bogart for a deep dive into the realities facing immigrant communities in Arkansas. Together, they break down how ICE operates in the state, the rights every immigrant should know, and the local and state policies shaping daily life for thousands of families. Nathan offers clarity...

On this episode Irvin sits down with the Mayor of Halloween and Owner of Pin Point, Bo Counts! Listen to this fun episode of Halloween Talk and other Spooooooky things. Happy Halloween! :D

In this episode of the District 3 Podcast , Irvin sits down with two passionate child care entrepreneurs — Shahid Sheikh of Little Martians Learning Center and Jenny Castillo of Casa Castillo — to dig into the mounting crisis facing early childhood providers across Arkansas. Recently, the Arkansas Department of Education announced sweeping changes to the School Readiness Assistance Program , intro...

On this episode of The District 3 Podcast , Irvin sits down with Katherin Aristondo , a cancer survivor whose story is one of faith, resilience, and the power of community. Back in 2015, Katherin was diagnosed with an undifferentiated small round cell sarcoma that completely changed the course of her life. She opens up about her experience receiving treatment at St. Jude’s Research Hospital , the...

On this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin sits down with the author of the new children’s book The Black Cookout Survival Guide . Together, they dive into the inspiration behind the book, the importance of mental health, and the realities of racism in our country. They also explore why open and honest conversations matter now more than ever. This heartfelt episode brings real stories, real...

On this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin and Miggs sit down with Olivia Barraza, co-founder of Latinas en Bici , a nonprofit dedicated to normalizing bike riding among Latina women—whether for recreation, daily life, or as a new skill for those who’ve never ridden before. We dive into the story behind the organization, the importance of bike accessibility in the Latino community, and how c...

In this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin and Miggs sit down with comedian Francisco Ramos for a conversation that’s equal parts fun and insightful. Francisco has been featured on Hulu’s This Fool , Netflix’s Gentefied , and voiced a character in the animated hit Rio . He also stars in an upcoming film produced by Kevin Smith and is performing live this weekend at The Grove in Lowell. Toget...

For Episode #310 of the District 3 Podcast, all three co-hosts—Irvin, Elena, and Miggs—come together for a long-awaited catch-up conversation. They share updates on their personal lives, reflect on current events, and engage in an open, unfiltered discussion. This candid reunion offers listeners an authentic glimpse into the hosts’ perspectives. We hope you enjoy this special episode.

On this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin sits down with Jess Mabie — advocate, Northwest Arkansas’ only Lululemon influencer , and content creator making waves on TikTok. Jess opens up about her journey into advocacy, how she built her platform, and the world of content creation. From balancing authenticity with brand work to the fun side of going viral, this conversation is full of insigh...

In this inspiring episode of The District 3 Podcast , Irvin sits down with JWOW to hear his remarkable journey of living — and thriving — with cerebral palsy. From excelling as a successful car salesman to breaking down barriers with his determination, JWOW shares how he turns challenges into motivation and inspires those around him. This conversation dives into his work ethic, positive mindset, a...

In this gripping episode of the  District 3 Podcast , Irvin and Elena dive deep into the chilling case that’s captured state, national, and even international attention — the Devil's Den Double Homicide. As residents of the area, they bring a unique local perspective to a story that's shaken the community and raised countless questions. Join them as they break down the timeline of events, explore...

In this episode of  District 3 Podcast , Irvin sits down with  Robb Ryerse , the Democratic candidate running for Congress in  Arkansas’ 3rd Congressional District . Robb shares his journey—from his past campaign and deep-rooted community involvement to what inspired him to run again. We talk about his values, the challenges facing Northwest Arkansas, and why he believes now is the time for bold,...

In this inspiring episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin sits down with Coach Christhian Saavedra of Rogers Heritage High School—fresh off leading the boys soccer team to a historic  Arkansas state championship  and earning the title of  NWA Democrat-Gazette Boys Soccer Coach of the Year . Coach Saavedra shares the powerful story behind his journey—from humble beginnings to becoming a respected...

On this episode Irvin sits down with Billy Cook from Arkansas Renters United and Jesse Buchanan with Fayetteville's Forgotten and they discuss housing insecurity in NWA, but on this episode specifically Fayetteville. Rent is going up, housing insecure people are being swept off empty land in Fayetteville without a timely warning and that's just the tip of the iceberg. WE learn from Jesse and Billy...

In this episode, Irvin and Miggs sit down with Northwest Arkansas’s own Chad Maupin —a prolific digital artist, zine creator, and unapologetic voice of resistance. Known for his bold, politically charged visuals and deep ties to the region’s creative scene, Chad opens up about the intersection of art, activism, and illness. The conversation covers everything: from the evolution of his digital styl...