<![CDATA[WFF: The Future Is Local: A Walton Family Foundation Series - I Am Northwest Arkansas®]]>fb74d036-09e4-5d95-94f6-54512fb06553Mon, 11 May 2026 11:00:48 +0000Captivate.fmRandy Wilburnhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/cc3b9ee1-1018-49fb-96dd-82eb46a18c85/i-am-northwest-arkansas1-square-2000px.jpgWFF: The Future Is Local: A Walton Family Foundation Series - I Am Northwest Arkansas®Randy WilburnRandy WilburnThis special five-part series from I Am Northwest Arkansas® explores the people, projects, and ideas shaping the region’s future. From housing and transportation to entrepreneurship and local leadership, these episodes highlight the momentum happening right here in Benton and Washington Counties. This series is supported by the Walton Family Foundation’s Home Region Program, which invests in the vitality of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta. Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org. ⸻ The I am Northwest Arkansas Podcast covers the intersection of Business, Culture, Entrepreneurship, and Life in Benton and Washington County Arkansas. If you are thinking about moving here or already live here, we've got great inspiring stories, ideas, things to do, places to see, people to meet, and food to eat. Learn why we are one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas of the US.http://iamnorthwestarkansas.comfalseepisodichttps://feeds.captivate.fm/i-am-northwest-arkansas/collectionnopodcastFayetteville, ArkansasFrom Tricycles to Food Truck Parks: The Pedal Pops Story in Northwest ArkansasFrom Tricycles to Food Truck Parks: The Pedal Pops Story in Northwest ArkansasAbout the Show:

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

In this episode, we explore the world of local entrepreneurship and community-building with Lynn Wong and Mike Thompson of Pedal Pops and Pedal Park. Host Randy Wilburn sits down with Lynn and Mike to hear their journey from corporate careers and dreams of an ice cream shop to building a thriving local business serving all-natural fruit pops and ice creams in Farmington, AR. The conversation dives into the evolution of their business, their commitment to healthy and local ingredients, and how Pedal Park has grown into a true community hub, supporting fellow entrepreneurs and providing space for local food trucks, events, and gatherings.

Lynn and Mike share insights on working with local partners like Ozark Natural Foods and area breweries, developing creative flavors, navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and why community collaboration is at the heart of their work. Whether discussing pop-up collaboration with nonprofits, fostering a welcoming environment for all, or offering advice to aspiring small business owners, their story highlights the unique spirit of innovation and togetherness in Benton and Washington Counties.

Tune in for an inspiring look at how local ideas and partnerships are shaping the culture and economy of Northwest Arkansas, and learn how Pedal Pops and Pedal Park are making a sweet difference in the region!

Key Takeaways:

  • Resilient Local Business: Pedal Pops grew from a kitchen experiment to a beloved local brand by focusing on all-natural ingredients, market feedback, and creative flavors tailored to what the community wants.
  • Community Collaboration: Pedal Park operates as more than just a food truck park—it's a center for celebrating diversity, supporting fellow entrepreneurs, and fostering lasting relationships among small business owners.
  • Innovation Meets Tradition: By reimagining nostalgic treats to be dairy-free and health-conscious, and by partnering with local brewers for boozy pops, the founders offer something for every palate and occasion.
  • Inclusive Gathering Space: Pedal Park hosts trivia, bingo nights, live music, pop-up markets, and events like “Theology on Tap,” cementing its role as Farmington’s go-to place for connection, creativity, and local flavor.
  • Inspired Entrepreneurship: Mike and Lynn share candid advice for new business owners, spotlight area resources like EforAll, Startup Junkie, and commercial kitchens, and encourage others to take “baby steps” and build on the region’s collaborative spirit.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*


Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.

This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

About the Walton Family Foundation
The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Hear all of the episodes from this series right HERE

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>About the Show:

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

In this episode, we explore the world of local entrepreneurship and community-building with Lynn Wong and Mike Thompson of Pedal Pops and Pedal Park. Host Randy Wilburn sits down with Lynn and Mike to hear their journey from corporate careers and dreams of an ice cream shop to building a thriving local business serving all-natural fruit pops and ice creams in Farmington, AR. The conversation dives into the evolution of their business, their commitment to healthy and local ingredients, and how Pedal Park has grown into a true community hub, supporting fellow entrepreneurs and providing space for local food trucks, events, and gatherings.

Lynn and Mike share insights on working with local partners like Ozark Natural Foods and area breweries, developing creative flavors, navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and why community collaboration is at the heart of their work. Whether discussing pop-up collaboration with nonprofits, fostering a welcoming environment for all, or offering advice to aspiring small business owners, their story highlights the unique spirit of innovation and togetherness in Benton and Washington Counties.

Tune in for an inspiring look at how local ideas and partnerships are shaping the culture and economy of Northwest Arkansas, and learn how Pedal Pops and Pedal Park are making a sweet difference in the region!

Key Takeaways:

  • Resilient Local Business: Pedal Pops grew from a kitchen experiment to a beloved local brand by focusing on all-natural ingredients, market feedback, and creative flavors tailored to what the community wants.
  • Community Collaboration: Pedal Park operates as more than just a food truck park—it's a center for celebrating diversity, supporting fellow entrepreneurs, and fostering lasting relationships among small business owners.
  • Innovation Meets Tradition: By reimagining nostalgic treats to be dairy-free and health-conscious, and by partnering with local brewers for boozy pops, the founders offer something for every palate and occasion.
  • Inclusive Gathering Space: Pedal Park hosts trivia, bingo nights, live music, pop-up markets, and events like “Theology on Tap,” cementing its role as Farmington’s go-to place for connection, creativity, and local flavor.
  • Inspired Entrepreneurship: Mike and Lynn share candid advice for new business owners, spotlight area resources like EforAll, Startup Junkie, and commercial kitchens, and encourage others to take “baby steps” and build on the region’s collaborative spirit.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*


Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.

This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

About the Walton Family Foundation
The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Hear all of the episodes from this series right HERE

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>4c9bbad8-6dee-4f7a-b544-2d688061d7f6Mon, 01 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -050051:39falsefull326326Exploring ORT On Demand and the Next Era of Public Transportation in Northwest ArkansasExploring ORT On Demand and the Next Era of Public Transportation in Northwest ArkansasAbout the Show:

"Public transit actually provides freedom."

       – Joel Gardner

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Joel Gardner, Executive Director of Ozark Regional Transit (ORT), for an inside look at the state and future of public transportation in Northwest Arkansas. Joel brings years of experience from transit systems across the country and shares how Northwest Arkansas can grow smarter as the region’s population booms.

From the story behind ORT’s community-centered headquarters in Springdale to the expansion of the ORT On Demand service, this episode offers practical advice, local insight, and clear reasons why investing in public transit matters for everyone—from college students and seniors to busy parents and professionals. Discover how public transportation equals freedom, relieves parking and traffic headaches, and can play a key role in the region’s future quality of life.

Whether you’re new to the area, an NWA native, or simply transit-curious, this conversation will get you thinking differently about how we can all get around safely, independently, and sustainably.

Key Takeaways:

  • Transit is Freedom: Public transportation helps everyone—from teens to grandparents—get where they need to go safely and affordably.
  • ORT On Demand = Local Uber: Order a ride within select city zones through the app, making car-free living easier across Springdale, Fayetteville, Rogers, and Bentonville.
  • A Growing Region Needs Smarter Transit: As NWA grows, roads are getting crowded. Investing in transit now helps prevent traffic headaches, keeps costs down, and gives more people choices.
  • Collaboration is Key: Bentonville and Rogers are leading the way by pooling resources and thinking regionally, not just city-by-city.
  • Every Rider Makes a Difference: Taking transit just a few times a week can help reduce traffic, parking problems, and even DUIs at busy events or nights out.
  • The Future Takes Planning: Large-scale improvements take years to fund and build. Supporting transit today ensures options for everyone tomorrow.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*


This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Hear all of the episodes from this series right HERE

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>About the Show:

"Public transit actually provides freedom."

       – Joel Gardner

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Joel Gardner, Executive Director of Ozark Regional Transit (ORT), for an inside look at the state and future of public transportation in Northwest Arkansas. Joel brings years of experience from transit systems across the country and shares how Northwest Arkansas can grow smarter as the region’s population booms.

From the story behind ORT’s community-centered headquarters in Springdale to the expansion of the ORT On Demand service, this episode offers practical advice, local insight, and clear reasons why investing in public transit matters for everyone—from college students and seniors to busy parents and professionals. Discover how public transportation equals freedom, relieves parking and traffic headaches, and can play a key role in the region’s future quality of life.

Whether you’re new to the area, an NWA native, or simply transit-curious, this conversation will get you thinking differently about how we can all get around safely, independently, and sustainably.

Key Takeaways:

  • Transit is Freedom: Public transportation helps everyone—from teens to grandparents—get where they need to go safely and affordably.
  • ORT On Demand = Local Uber: Order a ride within select city zones through the app, making car-free living easier across Springdale, Fayetteville, Rogers, and Bentonville.
  • A Growing Region Needs Smarter Transit: As NWA grows, roads are getting crowded. Investing in transit now helps prevent traffic headaches, keeps costs down, and gives more people choices.
  • Collaboration is Key: Bentonville and Rogers are leading the way by pooling resources and thinking regionally, not just city-by-city.
  • Every Rider Makes a Difference: Taking transit just a few times a week can help reduce traffic, parking problems, and even DUIs at busy events or nights out.
  • The Future Takes Planning: Large-scale improvements take years to fund and build. Supporting transit today ensures options for everyone tomorrow.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*


This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Hear all of the episodes from this series right HERE

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>5658186e-43ef-4ce9-b1fb-4c886f1f7ad2Mon, 15 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -050001:03:16falsefull328328Repair, Don’t Replace: Upkept.io’s Mission to Transform Fashion’s Environmental FootprintRepair, Don’t Replace: Upkept.io’s Mission to Transform Fashion’s Environmental FootprintAbout the Show:

"The most sustainable garment is the one that's already in your closet, right?"

       – Robin Wallis Atkinson

This episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas® is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through its Home Region Program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping the future of Northwest Arkansas — from housing and entrepreneurship to transportation, sustainability, and leadership.

In this episode, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Robin Wallis Atkinson, artist, entrepreneur, and founder & CEO of Upkept.io. Together, they dive into the growing challenges of fast fashion, the decline of garment repair skills, and how Upkept is using technology and creativity to make clothing repair simple, accessible, and climate-friendly for everyone.

Robin shares her journey from painter and curator to revitalizing Northwest Arkansas Fashion Week — always searching for what’s missing in the local creative ecosystem. That journey led her to realize how few opportunities exist for people to engage with sustainable fashion or find skilled repair services. With Upkept, she’s changing that — building a future where people can keep their favorite clothes longer, save money, and reduce textile waste.

Perfect for anyone passionate about sustainability, innovation, and creative problem-solving — especially those who love seeing new ideas take root right here in Northwest Arkansas.

Key Takeaways:

  • Repair Revolution: Fast fashion has made it harder to repair clothes, but Upkept aims to make fixing garments as simple as buying new ones.
  • Value What You Own: Repairing clothes you love saves money and the planet—think cost-per-wear and sentimental value!
  • Skilled Trades Matter: The tailoring industry is shrinking, with few young people learning sewing skills. Upkept focuses on training and upholding high-quality standards for repairs.
  • Technology Meets Tradition: Upkept’s platform uses images and (soon) AI to make repairs easy and transparent, letting customers know costs up front.
  • Community and Creativity: Northwest Arkansas’s creative network, entrepreneurial spirit, and focus on supply chain logistics have helped shape Upkept’s growth.
  • Wider Impact: Better repair services can help slow down the fast fashion cycle and dramatically cut the amount of clothing going to landfills.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*


Sponsors: This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation’s Home Region Program, which helps grow work and entrepreneurship, transportation, housing, and community leadership in Northwest Arkansas.

This episode is sponsored by*

FindItNWA.com

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Try ONBoardNWA.com Today!

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>About the Show:

"The most sustainable garment is the one that's already in your closet, right?"

       – Robin Wallis Atkinson

This episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas® is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through its Home Region Program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping the future of Northwest Arkansas — from housing and entrepreneurship to transportation, sustainability, and leadership.

In this episode, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Robin Wallis Atkinson, artist, entrepreneur, and founder & CEO of Upkept.io. Together, they dive into the growing challenges of fast fashion, the decline of garment repair skills, and how Upkept is using technology and creativity to make clothing repair simple, accessible, and climate-friendly for everyone.

Robin shares her journey from painter and curator to revitalizing Northwest Arkansas Fashion Week — always searching for what’s missing in the local creative ecosystem. That journey led her to realize how few opportunities exist for people to engage with sustainable fashion or find skilled repair services. With Upkept, she’s changing that — building a future where people can keep their favorite clothes longer, save money, and reduce textile waste.

Perfect for anyone passionate about sustainability, innovation, and creative problem-solving — especially those who love seeing new ideas take root right here in Northwest Arkansas.

Key Takeaways:

  • Repair Revolution: Fast fashion has made it harder to repair clothes, but Upkept aims to make fixing garments as simple as buying new ones.
  • Value What You Own: Repairing clothes you love saves money and the planet—think cost-per-wear and sentimental value!
  • Skilled Trades Matter: The tailoring industry is shrinking, with few young people learning sewing skills. Upkept focuses on training and upholding high-quality standards for repairs.
  • Technology Meets Tradition: Upkept’s platform uses images and (soon) AI to make repairs easy and transparent, letting customers know costs up front.
  • Community and Creativity: Northwest Arkansas’s creative network, entrepreneurial spirit, and focus on supply chain logistics have helped shape Upkept’s growth.
  • Wider Impact: Better repair services can help slow down the fast fashion cycle and dramatically cut the amount of clothing going to landfills.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*


Sponsors: This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation’s Home Region Program, which helps grow work and entrepreneurship, transportation, housing, and community leadership in Northwest Arkansas.

This episode is sponsored by*

FindItNWA.com

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Try ONBoardNWA.com Today!

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. 

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>63dec57e-7037-445b-884b-0847ed417f4fMon, 10 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -050056:25falsefull335335The Future Is Local: Affordable Housing Insights from Architect Jessica Lewallen in Northwest ArkansasThe Future Is Local: Affordable Housing Insights from Architect Jessica Lewallen in Northwest ArkansasAbout the Show:

“I hope there’s silver buckshot… a lot of small action in a lot of areas is what will really help us get where we need to be.”

– Jessica Lewallen

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas® host Randy Wilburn and architect Jessica Lewallen discuss housing, growth, and what it takes to keep Northwest Arkansas a place where people can actually afford to live.

Through her work with ULI's Faithful Foundations program, the Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force, and as founder of Gemstone Design Studio, Jessica's tackling one of our region's biggest challenges—making sure explosive growth doesn't price people out or erase what makes this place special.

You'll hear stories from Jessica's journey, practical ideas for housing solutions, and why fixing this requires everyone—homeowners, churches, policymakers, planners, and regular folks—to show up. Whether you're a longtime resident worried about preserving open spaces, a newcomer searching for affordable housing, or someone wondering how to get involved, this episode offers both wisdom and hope for building a Northwest Arkansas where the next generation can thrive.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Shifting Household Needs: Nearly three-quarters of households in Northwest Arkansas are made up of two people or fewer, highlighting a need for smaller, more affordable homes, not just large family houses.
  2. Smarter Land Use & Infill: Thoughtful infill development helps preserve access to parks, farmland, and green spaces, by building density where infrastructure already exists—instead of sprawling into new areas.
  3. Transportation’s Hidden Costs: Affordable housing isn’t just about rent or mortgages—long commutes and car dependency mean Northwest Arkansans face combined housing and transportation costs rivaling larger metro areas.
  4. Local Action, Local Solutions: Real change comes from community-led efforts—whether it’s homeowners building accessory dwelling units (ADUs), churches repurposing land, or neighbors engaging in city committees.
  5. Education Fuels Empowerment: Programs like ULI’s READY and Groundwork’s Chats help citizens gain the knowledge to shape housing policy, dispelling myths and fostering supportive, effective advocacy.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*

  1. Jessica Lewallen, Gemstone Design Studio
  2. Email: jessica@gemstonedesignstudio.com
  3. LinkedIn: Gemstone Design Studio
  4. Instagram: Gemstone Design Studio
  5. Facebook: Gemstone Design Studio

Organizations & Programs:

  1. Urban Land Institute (ULI NWA) — Including Faithful Foundations, READY Real Estate Diversity Initiative, PLACE Summit
  2. Groundwork NWA — Public education and community building for housing solutions
  3. Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force
  4. Ozark Regional Transit
  5. Confident Coffee (Fayetteville): Example of successful infill development

This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org


Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>About the Show:

“I hope there’s silver buckshot… a lot of small action in a lot of areas is what will really help us get where we need to be.”

– Jessica Lewallen

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas® host Randy Wilburn and architect Jessica Lewallen discuss housing, growth, and what it takes to keep Northwest Arkansas a place where people can actually afford to live.

Through her work with ULI's Faithful Foundations program, the Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force, and as founder of Gemstone Design Studio, Jessica's tackling one of our region's biggest challenges—making sure explosive growth doesn't price people out or erase what makes this place special.

You'll hear stories from Jessica's journey, practical ideas for housing solutions, and why fixing this requires everyone—homeowners, churches, policymakers, planners, and regular folks—to show up. Whether you're a longtime resident worried about preserving open spaces, a newcomer searching for affordable housing, or someone wondering how to get involved, this episode offers both wisdom and hope for building a Northwest Arkansas where the next generation can thrive.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Shifting Household Needs: Nearly three-quarters of households in Northwest Arkansas are made up of two people or fewer, highlighting a need for smaller, more affordable homes, not just large family houses.
  2. Smarter Land Use & Infill: Thoughtful infill development helps preserve access to parks, farmland, and green spaces, by building density where infrastructure already exists—instead of sprawling into new areas.
  3. Transportation’s Hidden Costs: Affordable housing isn’t just about rent or mortgages—long commutes and car dependency mean Northwest Arkansans face combined housing and transportation costs rivaling larger metro areas.
  4. Local Action, Local Solutions: Real change comes from community-led efforts—whether it’s homeowners building accessory dwelling units (ADUs), churches repurposing land, or neighbors engaging in city committees.
  5. Education Fuels Empowerment: Programs like ULI’s READY and Groundwork’s Chats help citizens gain the knowledge to shape housing policy, dispelling myths and fostering supportive, effective advocacy.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*

  1. Jessica Lewallen, Gemstone Design Studio
  2. Email: jessica@gemstonedesignstudio.com
  3. LinkedIn: Gemstone Design Studio
  4. Instagram: Gemstone Design Studio
  5. Facebook: Gemstone Design Studio

Organizations & Programs:

  1. Urban Land Institute (ULI NWA) — Including Faithful Foundations, READY Real Estate Diversity Initiative, PLACE Summit
  2. Groundwork NWA — Public education and community building for housing solutions
  3. Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force
  4. Ozark Regional Transit
  5. Confident Coffee (Fayetteville): Example of successful infill development

This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org


Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.

FindItNWA.com

]]>ad3cd4d7-b3cd-431d-828e-420e4cebd848Mon, 12 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -050001:07:23falsefull344344From Ice Cream Entrepreneur to Rhodes Scholar and Mentor: Coleman Warren’s JourneyFrom Ice Cream Entrepreneur to Rhodes Scholar and Mentor: Coleman Warren’s JourneyAbout the Show:

"A community that buys into its future, buys into its youth, can really create something special."

– Coleman Warren

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

Before he was a Rhodes Scholar or the co-founder of the Compass Foundation, Coleman Warren was just a kid from Farmington, Arkansas — a small town that had no idea what it was sending out into the world. In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, Coleman traces the full arc of that journey: from a rural upbringing shaped by teachers and community members who saw something in him, to launching a socially-minded ice cream business that proved you could build something meaningful and mission-driven from the ground up.

But it was the experience of stepping into elite spaces — and feeling the weight of being underrepresented in them — that lit the fire behind Compass. Co-founded by Coleman, the Compass Foundation is a mentorship and scholarship program purpose-built for first-generation and low-income students in rural Arkansas. It's not just about financial support. Compass surrounds students with mentors who've walked similar paths, opens doors to real-world experiences they might never encounter otherwise, and does the quieter work of helping young people believe that where they come from is a strength, not a limitation.

This is an episode about what's possible when someone who made it decides to reach back — and build something that makes the path a little clearer for everyone who comes next.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Community Investment Pays Off: Positive investment in young people leads to lifelong returns, both for individuals and their communities.
  2. The Power of Mentorship: Having caring adults and mentors can change a student’s life, especially for those who may not have guidance at home.
  3. Education Beyond Finances: Compass goes past scholarships and includes ACT tutoring, personal development, and capstone experiences like studying abroad or community projects.
  4. Importance of Rural Representation: Rural voices are underrepresented in elite spaces, which inspired Coleman to focus on rural student success.
  5. Service at the Core: Compass encourages service-oriented mindsets and alumni giving back, sustaining local growth and support systems.
  6. Not Just for College-Bound: Compass values students going into trades and non-college career paths, emphasizing leadership, critical thinking, and community-mindedness for all.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*

  1. Learn more, donate, or start a chapter: Compass Foundation Website
  2. Follow Compass for updates and NWA Gives: Watch for tagged posts on I Am Northwest Arkansas Instagram
  3. Email Coleman
  4. Compass Foundation on Instagram
  5. Compass Foundation on Facebook
  6. Compass Foundation on LinkedIn
  7. FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory

This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

]]>About the Show:

"A community that buys into its future, buys into its youth, can really create something special."

– Coleman Warren

This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.

Before he was a Rhodes Scholar or the co-founder of the Compass Foundation, Coleman Warren was just a kid from Farmington, Arkansas — a small town that had no idea what it was sending out into the world. In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, Coleman traces the full arc of that journey: from a rural upbringing shaped by teachers and community members who saw something in him, to launching a socially-minded ice cream business that proved you could build something meaningful and mission-driven from the ground up.

But it was the experience of stepping into elite spaces — and feeling the weight of being underrepresented in them — that lit the fire behind Compass. Co-founded by Coleman, the Compass Foundation is a mentorship and scholarship program purpose-built for first-generation and low-income students in rural Arkansas. It's not just about financial support. Compass surrounds students with mentors who've walked similar paths, opens doors to real-world experiences they might never encounter otherwise, and does the quieter work of helping young people believe that where they come from is a strength, not a limitation.

This is an episode about what's possible when someone who made it decides to reach back — and build something that makes the path a little clearer for everyone who comes next.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Community Investment Pays Off: Positive investment in young people leads to lifelong returns, both for individuals and their communities.
  2. The Power of Mentorship: Having caring adults and mentors can change a student’s life, especially for those who may not have guidance at home.
  3. Education Beyond Finances: Compass goes past scholarships and includes ACT tutoring, personal development, and capstone experiences like studying abroad or community projects.
  4. Importance of Rural Representation: Rural voices are underrepresented in elite spaces, which inspired Coleman to focus on rural student success.
  5. Service at the Core: Compass encourages service-oriented mindsets and alumni giving back, sustaining local growth and support systems.
  6. Not Just for College-Bound: Compass values students going into trades and non-college career paths, emphasizing leadership, critical thinking, and community-mindedness for all.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*

  1. Learn more, donate, or start a chapter: Compass Foundation Website
  2. Follow Compass for updates and NWA Gives: Watch for tagged posts on I Am Northwest Arkansas Instagram
  3. Email Coleman
  4. Compass Foundation on Instagram
  5. Compass Foundation on Facebook
  6. Compass Foundation on LinkedIn
  7. FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory

This episode is sponsored by*

The Walton Family Foundation

The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.

Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:


Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.

Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas

]]>3c164a65-4077-4008-84b3-3edc50eec9aaMon, 16 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -050001:01:12falsefull351351