FayetteForward

In episode 42, former Fayetteville city council member Kyle Smith reflects on what makes Fayetteville special and how his path through teaching, advocacy, and local government shaped his deeply practical vision for housing, growth, and community life. He makes the case that protecting the city’s spirit requires more than resisting change. It means staying flexible, supporting local businesses, and...

In episode 41, we talk with Carlee Alm-LaBar, Chief of Staff at Strong Towns, about bottom-up change, local action, and what it takes to build places that are financially resilient, livable, and strong. We also preview the 2026 Strong Towns National Gathering coming to Fayetteville and explore what residents, advocates, and curious newcomers can gain from being part of it. Show Links: 2026 Strong...

In episode 40, Mallory Baches, president of the Congress for the New Urbanism, shares the vision behind CNU 34 and why Northwest Arkansas is uniquely positioned to host it right now. From new urbanism to long-term community belonging, she offers a compelling look at how this growing region can build places that love people and become a national model for intentional growth. Show Links: Mallory Bac...

Episode 39: How County Decisions Shape Everyday Life with Evelyn Rios Stafford In episode 39, we talk with Washington County JP Evelyn Rios Stafford about her path from journalism to county government—and what it really means to serve as a Justice of the Peace. Evelyn shares how planning, zoning, and public process shape growth across Northwest Arkansas, and why transparency, patience, and public...

What does it take to build neighborhoods that work — and last? In episode 38, local developer Z Niederman reflects on lessons from the field, offering practical wisdom for aspiring builders and seasoned planners alike. From design philosophy to navigating resistance, he explores the art and grit of human-scale development. Show Links: Incremental Development Alliance ULI Northwest Arkansas John An...

In episode 37, we talk with Becky DeClerk, an occupational therapy doctoral student and passionate transit advocate, about the intersection of healthcare, accessibility, and public transportation. We explore how OT and public transit go hand in hand in supporting independence and community participation. From sharing headphones with a jazz-loving stranger to testifying at city council meetings, Be...

In episode 36, we sit down with Megan Brown, Director of Operations at ULI Northwest Arkansas, to explore how real change happens in communities—through relationships, shared vision, and events like the ULI Place Summit. Megan shares how her background in finance, music, and event planning shaped her passion for the built environment, and why the Place Summit is more than just a conference—it’s a...

FayetteForward has brought you conversations with incredible guests from across Fayetteville’s creative, planning, and community worlds. In Episode 35, we’re especially thrilled to sit down with someone whose role touches every corner of our city: Fayetteville’s Mayor, Molly Rawn! Together, we explore what it means to build Fayetteville’s future. From housing affordability and trails to climate re...

In this final episode of our Passive House series, builder and general contractor Alex Munson takes us behind the scenes of the Magnolia House—the first certified Passive House in Arkansas. Alex shares how her background, hands-on building style, and deep-rooted love for construction shaped the project, and she reflects on what it means to collaborate closely with architects and consultants to mee...

Cameron Caja joins us to explore the world of Passive House design—what it is, how it works, and why it matters for Northwest Arkansas. From energy modeling and airtight membranes to long-term resilience and community health, Cameron unpacks the systems thinking behind better buildings. He also shares insights on affordability, incremental change, and his work with Habitat for Humanity to make hig...

In this launch of our Passive House Series, architectural designer Michael Cockram walks us through the vision and process behind Arkansas’s first certified Passive House—the Magnolia House. Built on a tandem lot in his former backyard, Michael’s project showcases the power of high-performance design, strong collaboration, and ecological mindfulness. It’s an inspiring start to a series focused on...

In episode 31, Alison Jumper, Fayetteville’s Director of Parks, Natural Resources, and Cultural Affairs, shares her journey from landscape architect to city leader. We explore how parks can drive public health, sustainability, and social connection, all while aiming for the bold vision of high-quality green spaces within a 10-minute walk for everyone. From dog parks and drum circles to tubing stre...

In episode 30, Meredith Bergstrom, Senior Program Officer at the Walton Family Foundation, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of Northwest Arkansas. We discuss housing affordability, transportation options, community engagement, and how thoughtful land use can shape stronger communities. Meredith shares insights into the Razorback Regional Greenway Corridor Plan, an ambitiou...

In episode 29, lifelong Northwest Arkansas resident, Rogers Planning Commissioner, and passionate urbanist Ezequiel Tovar joins us to discuss the power of strong downtowns and people-centered planning. Drawing from his background in finance and consulting, Ezequiel shares insights on the challenges and opportunities of urban development in a rapidly growing region. We also explore how investing in...

In episode 28, Fayetteville Planning Commissioner Fred Gulley reflects on his journey from growing up in Fayetteville to exploring the world and returning to shape his hometown’s future. He offers compelling insights into smart growth, community engagement, and how global experiences fuel his vision for Fayetteville. Don’t miss this thoughtful conversation on planning, progress, and the power of p...

In Episode 27, we interview Fayetteville-based architect, landscape architect, small-scale developer, and Executive Director of the Incremental Development Alliance, Alli Thurmond Quinlan. Alli explores the transformative power of small-scale development to revitalize neighborhoods, preserve natural spaces, and tackle housing affordability. From zoning reform and infill development to regional col...

In Episode 26, we recap the 2024 ULI Northwest Arkansas Place Summit, where experts and advocates gathered to discuss urban planning, climate resilience, and housing reform. Featuring interviews with keynote speakers Wes Marshall and Alison Sant, as well as insights from local change-makers, we explore topics like tree canopy equity, state-level zoning reform, traffic safety, transit, active trans...

In episode 25, we chat with Natalie Nohinek, a University of Arkansas political science student, endurance athlete, podcast host, and lover of local politics. Natalie shares her passion for trails, transit, and civic participation, offering a fresh perspective on how young people can engage with local government. We first met Natalie at a recent city council meeting, where her amusing commentary a...

In episode 24, Jessica Lewallen, founder of Gemstone Design Studio and a member of the Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force, joins us to discuss her multifaceted career in architecture, urban planning, and community advocacy. We explore her passion for addressing Fayetteville’s housing crisis, the connections between her faith and professional work, and the role of churches in providing sustaina...

In episode 23, we sit down with Eugene Sargent, a longtime Fayetteville artist known for his iconic public sculptures. Eugene opens up about his journey from a back-to-the-land hippie kid to a leading figure in the city’s artistic community. He shares insights into his creative process, how he approaches public art, and the importance of quirky, accessible art in shaping the city’s identity. Show...

In episode 22, Wes Craiglow, Executive Director of Urban Land Institute Northwest Arkansas, shares his journey from city planner to thought leader in urban development. Wes offers a compelling vision for transforming Northwest Arkansas through people-focused planning, drawing on nearly two decades of experience. He explores the critical issues of housing attainability, the overproduction of suburb...

In Episode 21, Dayton Castleman, Director of Creative Placemaking at Verdant Studio, discusses the intersection of art and urban development in Northwest Arkansas. He explores how public art contributes to placemaking, emphasizing the importance of understanding a location's existing characteristics before artistic intervention, and... Eastern European Worcestershire sauce. Castleman highlights th...

In episode 20, Chris Allcorn from Specialized Real Estate Group shares his insights on urban development and navigating change in Northwest Arkansas and beyond. Chris discusses his fascinating and inspiring journey to Fayetteville, highlighting his passion for adaptive reuse, placemaking, and community-focused development. He offers valuable perspectives on balancing growth with integrity, address...

In episode 19, Isaac Stevens shares his journey into urbanism, his experiences with bike commuting year-round, and the state of infrastructure in Northwest Arkansas.. He also discusses the vital role of bicycles in making cities more accessible and sustainable, the value of social infrastructure after a tornado impacted his community, and much more! Show Links: Not Just Bikes YouTube channel Isaac...

In episode 18, we welcome Fredwyn Story, an avid roller skater who gets around town primarily on skates. They share their unique experiences and challenges of using roller skates as a primary mode of transportation. We discuss safety tips, the importance of community, and aspirations for improving the local trail system. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation that showcases the free...