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, […]

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

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

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

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

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 the unique role of Crystal

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, addressing challenges in

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:

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

In this episode, we sit down with Joel Gardner, Executive Director of Ozark Regional Transit (ORT), who shares his unexpected journey into public transportation and his vision for Northwest Arkansas. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in developing a comprehensive transit system in NWA, from funding hurdles to the importance of community support. Show Links: