The Bentonville Beacon

Bentonville Economic Development | Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce

https://bentonvillearea.com/ On the Bentonville Beacon podcast, host James Bell brings you stories from the entrepreneurs, business executives and community leaders who are sparking the rise of the Greater Bentonville area. You'll hear how one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic cities and economies in the United States helps businesses grow and helps people live their best lives. Tune in, subscribe, and get excited to embrace Greater Bentonville with us!

  1. 2025-10-09

    Creating Art Through Cocktails: Izaak Barrett on Callisto's Unique Hospitality Vision

    SummaryWelcome to another episode of The Bentonville Beacon, the podcast where we shine a light on the inspiring stories and innovative people shaping the economic and cultural landscape of Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas. In this episode, host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with Izaak Barrett, co-creator and director of operations at Oasis Hospitality Group and its concept Calllisto—a vibrant new speakeasy that’s quickly becoming Bentonville’s “worst kept secret.” Izaak shares the journey that led him from Phoenix to Bentonville, teaming up with his family to realize a longtime dream of building an immersive hospitality experience unlike any other in the area. Dive into the story behind Callisto's unique blend of art, craft cocktails, and tropical vibes, all tucked discreetly behind an art gallery. Izaak reveals the intentional design choices, the importance of place and community, and the ways in which Callisto is not just a place to grab a drink, but an artful escape built for genuine connection. Whether you’re a local looking for your next great night out, a visitor curious about Bentonville’s creative energy, or someone passionate about hospitality, this conversation will transport you into the heart of one of the city’s most innovative new destinations. Get ready to discover how thoughtful creativity and a love for community are redefining what hospitality means in Bentonville! LinksBrandom GengelbachGreater Bentonville Area Chamber of CommerceIzaak BarrettOasis Hospitality GroupCallisto

    31 min
  2. 2025-08-07

    Sparking Curiosity and Creativity: Inside the Scott Family Amazeum with Holland Hayden

    Welcome to another episode of the Bentonville Beacon! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on one of Bentonville’s most vibrant and imaginative destinations: the Scott Family Amazeum. Host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with Holland Hayden, Sr. Marketing and Communications Manager at The Amazeum, to uncover how this hands-on museum is so much more than a place for kids. it's a catalyst for creativity, innovation, and economic development in Northwest Arkansas. As the community grows by thirty-six people a day, Holland shares how The Amazeum is keeping pace by inspiring the next generation of thinkers, makers, and leaders through dynamic exhibits, outreach programs, and partnerships that foster lifelong learning. You’ll hear stories about their YouthMaker program, the ever-popular Tinkerfest, exciting new expansions, and even some behind-the-scenes fun that makes working at The Amazeum a unique experience. Whether you’re a Bentonville local, new to the area, or just curious about how destinations like The Amazeum are fueling both imaginations and the economy, this episode is packed with insight, energy, and a few laughs. So join us as we discover why The Amazeum isn’t just shaping young minds, it’s helping to shape the future of Bentonville itself! *Episode Correction: The Amazeum sees twenty-five thousand kids a year with its Unfield Trip program, with over two hundred kids being served so far with the Unfield Trips!

    41 min
  3. 2025-07-24

    NWACC’s Bold Vision for Workforce and Community in Northwest Arkansas

    Welcome to another episode of The Bentonville Beacon podcast! Today, host Brandom Gengelbach, President of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, sits down with two dynamic leaders from Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC): Dr. Dennis Rittle, President of NWACC, and Starlinda Sanders, Associate Vice President of Workforce. As the Bentonville and greater Northwest Arkansas region continues to experience incredible growth, gaining thirty-six residents a day, the conversation explores how NWACC is playing a transformative role in workforce development and preparing the next generation for success. In this episode, you'll hear compelling stories about NWACC’s history, its mission as a true “community college,” and its bold new campus master plan set to reshape the student and community experience for decades to come. Dr. Rittle and Starlinda dive deep into the innovative programs and partnerships that are aligning education with local industry needs—from the celebrated Certified Retail Analyst program to new initiatives in healthcare, hospitality, micro-credentialing, and more. You'll also get an inside look at what makes the region and NWACC so unique, including the collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial energy, and shared vision between education, employers, and the broader community. Whether you’re a business leader, a prospective student, or simply passionate about the future of Bentonville, this episode is packed with valuable insights and the contagious optimism driving Northwest Arkansas forward. Tune in for an inspiring look at how NWACC is meeting the moment and helping Bentonville continue to earn its reputation as the “Unicorn City”!

    54 min
  4. 2025-06-12

    Inside Bentonville’s Cycling Culture and Community Spirit with Jessica Pearson & Zach Springer

    Welcome to another episode of the Bentonville Beacon podcast, where we shine a light on the stories and people fueling Bentonville’s incredible growth and thriving community spirit. In this episode, host Brandon Gengelbach, President and CEO of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, sits down with two game-changers in Bentonville’s mobility and cycling scene: Jessica Pearson of the Bentonville Moves Coalition and Zach Springer, founder of Gnargo Bike Co. Jessica and Zach share their personal journeys and the evolution of Bentonville’s cycling culture—from its roots as a recreation and mountain biking hub to a forward-thinking city that’s now embracing active transportation and infrastructure for everyone. You’ll hear how investment in trails, greenways, and bike infrastructure has transformed the way both longtime residents and newcomers experience Bentonville, making it more livable, connected, and inclusive. The conversation dives into how the community came together following a devastating tornado, with volunteers rallying to restore the city’s trails and greenways, and how this moment of recovery sparked even deeper connections and cross-pollination among Bentonville’s diverse cycling communities. Plus, you'll discover exciting new local initiatives, like accessible pedicabs designed and built right here, that keep Bentonville at the forefront of mobility innovation. Tune in and be inspired by the passion, grit, and creativity fueling Bentonville’s transformation into one of the most bike-friendly and resilient communities in America!

    1h 3m

About

https://bentonvillearea.com/ On the Bentonville Beacon podcast, host James Bell brings you stories from the entrepreneurs, business executives and community leaders who are sparking the rise of the Greater Bentonville area. You'll hear how one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic cities and economies in the United States helps businesses grow and helps people live their best lives. Tune in, subscribe, and get excited to embrace Greater Bentonville with us!