The Next Greatest Thing

What does it take to keep the power flowing across the River Valley? New electrical engineer Nathan Gibbons shares how an AVECC internship turned into a career serving the community he calls home, while giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the teamwork that keeps the lights on. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Meet Nathan Gibbons 00:25 – From AVECC intern to full-time electrical en...

Paying your electric bill has never been easier. In this episode, Member Services Coordinator Brooke Becker walks through AVECC's convenient payment options, from SmartHub and AutoPay to kiosks and Vanilla Direct, and shares simple tips to make bill pay stress-free. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction 00:35 – Meet Brooke Becker 01:09 – Every Way You Can Pay Your AVEC...

What does it really take to keep the lights on? In this episode of The Next Greatest Thing , longtime Right-of-Way Supervisor David Kendrick shares stories from nearly two decades at Arkansas Valley Electric, the importance of maintaining reliable right-of-way, and one unforgettable encounter with a swarm of bees while working in the field. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the people and work that...

We use electricity constantly, but most people never stop to think about the risks hiding in everyday routines. In this episode, Kerri Taylor from Safe Electricity shares simple, practical safety tips that could protect your home, your devices, and your family.  Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Introduction to the episode & guest Kerri Taylor from Safe Electricity 02:00 – What Safe Electricity does a...

Go behind the scenes with LaDonna Holman as she shares what it takes to keep payroll, accounting, and member services running smoothly at Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative. From her 12-year journey with the co-op to the family culture that makes it all worthwhile, this episode highlights the people and purpose behind the scenes.

Go behind the scenes with AVECC lineman Eric Shelton as he shares what really happens when the lights go out. From storm restorations and safety tips to the heart behind the job, this episode offers a new appreciation for the crews working to keep the power on.

Long hours. Mountain backroads. Storm calls at midnight. Meet Landon Blair and hear why serving his community as a journeyman lineman is more than a career, it’s a calling.

Get the latest on how WAVE Rural Connect is expanding service, improving reliability, and helping rural families and businesses stay connected like never before. In this episode, James Ratterree shares what’s changed over the past year, how members are really using their internet today, and what’s ahead for the future of fiber in our communities. Tune in to hear how local service, real support, an...

What makes Paris, Arkansas such a special place to live, work, and visit? In this episode, Paris Chamber of Commerce Director Tanya Fletcher shares how community pride, local leadership, and small-town collaboration are helping shape the future of Logan County. From the iconic Eiffel Tower Park to festivals, tourism, and downtown revitalization, discover why so many people love Paris.

Go behind the scenes with Wave Rural Connect’s Marketing Coordinator, James Ratteree, as he shares the journey of building a rural broadband brand from the ground up and what it means to truly serve a community. From connecting thousands of customers across the River Valley to life on the road and beyond, this episode offers a personal look at the people, purpose and passion powering WAVE today.

We sit down with Jessica Wills to talk about her new role as a Member Service Specialist and the behind-the-scenes work that helps keep the cooperative running smoothly. From growing up in a cooperative family to serving members through billing, community, and connection, Jessica shares why teamwork and a family-oriented culture matter most. You’ll also get to know the person beyond the desk—music...

Winter weather can be unpredictable, but being prepared makes all the difference. In this episode, we walk through how to get ready before a winter storm, what to do if the power goes out, and how Arkansas Valley Electric works to safely restore power. Simple tips, safety reminders, and peace of mind—straight from your cooperative.

From construction coordination to warehouse management, Debbie Copsey has worn many hats at AVECC, and she’s loved every minute. Join us as she talks about embracing challenges, finding her place in the cooperative family, and balancing her fast-paced days with a passion for books. 

Join us as we sit down with AVECC’s 2025 Employee of the Year, Rick Radley. Rick shares the stories, surprises, and behind-the-scenes moments that shaped his career and the cooperative he proudly calls home. 

Thanksgiving is all about family, food, and… high energy bills? In this episode, discover simple ways to cut back on energy use in the kitchen and around the house—without sacrificing your holiday traditions. Tune in for quick, practical tips to save money and make your Thanksgiving more energy-smart.  NOTE: This episode was adapted from an article originally published by Mitch Ross, the Energy Ef...

Lisa Freeman shares her 20-year journey at Arkansas Valley Electric as a payment processing specialist. She explains the behind-the-scenes role her department plays in keeping members’ accounts running smoothly and reflects on the teamwork that shines during outages. Lisa also opens up about her love for cooking, baking, and music, showing how giving back is at the heart of everything she does.

Arkansas Valley Electric's beloved mascot celebrates a milestone! 

In this episode of The Next Greatest Thing , listeners get to know Logan Haberer, IT Analyst at Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative. Logan shares how his work supports employees across the co-op—from troubleshooting technology to implementing 3D printing solutions—while also reflecting on his roots, small-town life, and the family atmosphere that makes AVECC a special place to work.

In this episode, Brandon Fisher and Lauren Robinson discuss the Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative’s 5th Annual Arkansas Children’s Hospital Golf Tournament. What began with personal experiences at Arkansas Children’s Hospital has evolved into a cherished tradition that unites employees, retirees, and vendors in support of a meaningful cause. 

Waldron Lineman, Dalton Dozier, shares how his uncle influenced him to become a lineman, about his time working storm restorations in Louisiana, and about the hobby he shares with his father and son. 

This year's Arkansas YLC representative is Allison Ober, a senior from Lamar High School. Allison talks with guest host, Emily Reames, about her time spent exploring Washington D.C., learning about how NRECA serves cooperatives nationwide, and the impact cooperatives have on rural America. 

Ruthie, Addison, and Gracie worked this summer with the Multimedia department, learning and honing their skills as future marketers and creatives. Sit with them as they look back on their summer of cooperative fun. 

In this episode of The Next Greatest Thing , we sit down with Josh Parker on his 43rd birthday to learn more about the man behind the numbers at Arkansas Valley Electric. Josh shares how his work in payroll and revenue ensures fairness for members, his love of gaming and good coffee, and how community drives everything he does. It’s a fun and thoughtful look at the personal and professional side o...

Each year, AVECC crews treat rights-of-way with herbicide treatment.  AVECC right-of-way superintendent, Chris Tedford and expert in herbicide sprays, Tim Jesus, manager of R & E Forestry, Inc.  explain the process, the reasons, and debunk common misconceptions about herbicide treatments.