Virginia Is For Laughers

Laughers, get ready to explore the delightful world of wine, mystery, and community with Duck Matthews from Nightcap by Merge. Discover the success of their popular themed Murder Mystery events and the collaborative effort that brings their unique seasonal menus to life with fan favorites like their cherry blossom wings, vodka pepperoni flatbread, and the highly praised tiramisu. Learn about Night...

Laughers, get ready to hear the inspiring story of Harrisonburg’s first African-American Woman Mayor! Tune in for a powerful and motivational conversation between two people who think differently politically and connect joyfully in their shared humanity.  Highlighting the spirit of service and community join host Dawn Davis Womack as they delve into the Mayor’s journey from a successful career in...

Laughers, get ready to be inspired by Rula’s incredible journey with The Hitch, a mobile event cart turning dreams into reality! During the Covid pandemic, Rula transformed a humble horse trailer into a chic venue for intimate gatherings and special events. With support from her husband and a leap of faith, she booked her first event just a month after quitting her job. Discover how she navigated...

Get ready, Laughers! In this episode, we're diving deep into the thrilling new Mountain Mayhem Coaster at Massanutten Resort! Discover the creative design and construction timeline, community feedback, and innovative marketing strategies behind this exciting attraction. From its unique mono rail and sled design to its year-round availability and rigorous safety protocols, we cover it all. Learn ab...

Laughers, get ready to discover the magic of community-driven theater with the remarkable ensemble at Eunoia Theatre! Join us for an energetic and enlightening episode where we dive into the origins and aspirations of this dynamic theater group. With a rich variety of theatre backgrounds and experience, listen as these ensemble members share their journeys and how they came together to redefine pe...

Laughers, get ready for a deep dive into the evolving world of comedy with the hilarious Lachlan Patterson! Hailing from Vancouver and based in LA, Lachlan has lit up stages on NBC's Last Comic Standing, Fox's Punchline, Comedy Central's Tosh.0, and more! We’ll explore his insightful take on the evolving comedy scene, the impact of social media on comedian popularity, and the essential love for th...

Laughers, get ready for inspirational laughs with takeaway wisdom nuggets  as we sit down with the multifaceted Landon Turner, a former NFL lineman. Landon shares his incredible journey from high school and college football stardom to facing the harsh realities of the NFL beginning with his NFL Draft story, an unexpected experience. Get a taste of his Friday night college traditions and the heartf...

Laughers, get ready to dive into the enchanting world of organic blueberry farming! Join us as we explore the Pick-Your-Own Blueberry Experience at this charming family-owned farm in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Learn about the rich history of Hobbit Hill Farm with our guest, Haley Coloso, whose passion for this blueberry farm shines throughout this engaging uplifting episode.  Discover the...

Hey Laughers, get ready to explore the evolution of PaveMint Smokin’ Taphouse blending Texas-inspired BBQ with a welcoming backyard party vibe! In a 1960s renovated gas station that backs up to a bike-walking trail, discover the mouthwatering adventure filled with comfort food, craft brews, fine wines, signature cocktails and the warm hospitality that define this hidden gem in the Shenandoah Valle...

Hey there, Laughers! Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of craft beer and community with Jeff Carroll from Vibrissa Beer in Front Royal, Virginia. Discover how this brewery, started by seven passionate investors, has grown from its humble beginnings in 2018 to a thriving hotspot with locations in Front Royal and Winchester. Jeff shares the unique story behind the name "Vibrissa" and the coll...

Laughers, get ready to dive into the vibrant soul of Front Royal, Virginia! Explore the historical charm and scenic beauty that make this town a must-visit destination with Lizi Lewis, the Community Development & Tourism Director. From captivating stories behind the town's name to the unique attractions on Main Street, like retro arcades and comic book shops, discover how Front Royal leverages...

Laughers, get ready to dive into a riveting journey in the Shenandoah Valley as we unveil the hidden narratives of bravery, espionage, and resilience embedded within the Civil War Trail Sites. In this episode, we're joined by Drew Gruber, Executive Director of a team behind the captivating storytelling initiative that brings the history of generals, soldiers, citizens and the enslaved across 6 sta...

Hey Laughers! Ready for a poppin' good time? Tune into this episode for a friendly and inspiring chat about making dreams come true with the popcorn queen herself, Tisha McCoy-Ntiamoah, from PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn. From her early days in the Midwest popping kernels at Topsy's to crafting gourmet flavors in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Tisha’s got the scoop on all things popcorn. Discover h...

Laughers, lace up your sneakers and hit the ground running with Mike Betts, the force behind the Grand Caverns Signature 5K, on this wholesome journey of community spirit and charity. With the bi-annual race drawing a close-knit crowd of enthusiastic runners, Mike shares the ins and outs of organizing this boutique event, with all the proceeds sprinting directly to Grand Caverns Park enhancements....

Laughers, immerse yourselves in the captivating world of historical fiction with the celebrated author Sydney Tooman Betts as she delves into her distinguished “The People of the Book” and “Phoebe’s Mysteries” series. Peek behind the curtain of Sydney's life as a teacher and ESL instructor turned prolific writer, exploring the intricate tapestry of American Indian culture and the poignant journey...

Laughers, today you can stroll down the musical memory lanes of the Shenandoah Valley with us hearing from passionate preservers of hymnal history from the Harmonia Sacra Society. Plus, don’t miss a Mennonite joke to spice up the conversation or the society's harmony in a featured performance video! Today’s guests Sam Showalter, Executive Director, and Andrea Early, along with our President Jeremy...

Laughers, prepare to embark on a transformative journey into the world of arts and education with Pianist, Musician, Teacher and Visionary Entrepreneur, Natalie Doughty. Whether you’re a seasoned virtuoso or a budding prodigy, Natalie’s inspiring tales and insights will resonate with anyone looking to harmonize their life with the arts. We’ll uncover her unique approach that empowers students of a...

Laughers, get ready to embrace your inner strength with expert insights from Dr. Laura Anne Copley! In this heartening chat, Dr. Copley, a seasoned trauma-informed counselor and author of "Loving You is Hurting Me," unpacks the complexities of trauma bonds and the radiant light of post-traumatic growth. Dr. Copley’s own journey to self-trust unfolds as she recalls her enlightening moment to the tu...

Laughers, prepare to be whisked away on a culinary journey and get to know seasoned chef Kristo Papa, the mastermind behind the delectable fare at Rocktown Kitchen! Immerse yourself in tales of his Greek roots and the savory southern dishes that spill from his kitchen. Find out how his farm-to-table restaurant not only survived but flourished during COVID, by cleverly pivoting to takeout menus and...

Laughers, today we step back in time to unravel the complexities of one of America's presidents straight from the heart of Staunton, Virginia. We’ll take a deep dive into history with the esteemed curator and director of The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, Andrew Phillips. Prepare to be transported back to the days of World War I and the gilded age of antitrust overhaul, as Phillip...

Laughers, gear up for a ride that takes some twists and turns with Coach Averi Ferari, an ex pro cyclist and former Air Force Staff Sergeant on security detail for the President. Prepare to dive into her unique journey where the worlds of military discipline, competitive cycling and two kinesiology degrees at James Madison University collide creating an already rewarding career path. From discussi...

Laughers, ready for a historical adventure with a bit of humor as we take a “Cent” tour? Tune in for a fun one with Penny Imeson, Executive Director of Rocktown History in Dayton. You’ll get to hear the story of her historical “office”; her unconventional start and be inspired by her passion for piecing together the past to transform the museum into a hub of heritage. From organizing “Coffee Mills...

Laughers, prepare to get swept away by the allure of olde world charm and hospitality with innkeepers Joel and Becca Graham of the historic Friendly City Inn in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Take a journey with these new parents who are among the youngest innkeepers in America and our charismatic host, Dawn Davis Womack, as we delve into their heartfelt transformation of an 1885 mansion into a modern be...

Laughers, prepare to journey into your own heart and mind to discover unhidden challenges that can sabotage your personal growth with our guest Letitia Bates. She’s a renowned coach, award winning speaker and #1 Amazon bestseller author who sheds light on the transformative power of self awareness and healing from trauma. This episode is sure to tug at those heartstrings as much as it tickles your...

Laughers, get ready to explore a world of relaxation, rejuvenation and healing in this zen oasis! Our host, the fun-loving Dawn Davis Womack is joined by the charismatic Lou Botkin, Massage Therapist, Owner and the heart of Escapes Spa. Tune in to hear Lou’s story of Arizona roots, fascinating August County farm life and her wisdom on how to turn self-care into a holistic sanctuary for the soul. A...