O Lala! (In RVA)

Olivia, Liz, & Matt

Two blondes (and Big Daddy) interviewing RVA's most interesting locals and making you laugh in the process. 🪩✨ Through our upbeat and comedic episodes, we shine a spotlight and connect the many subcultures that exist within our city. You'll hear about the bar scene, fashion, local business, entrepreneurship, personal struggles, music, non-profits and much more! Follow us on Instagram to see what we're up to @olala_RVA

  1. Chandeliers & Shot Skis: Inside RVA's Tobacco Co. with Erika ✨🪩⛷️ | S3 #21

    2D AGO

    Chandeliers & Shot Skis: Inside RVA's Tobacco Co. with Erika ✨🪩⛷️ | S3 #21

    This week we sit down with Erika — Sales & Marketing Manager at Tobacco Company, VCU marketing grad, Canva Queen, and full-time nightlife girly. She shares: How she went from corporate cold-calling to curating Richmond cultureThe history (and near-death moments) of Tobacco CompanyFriday vs. Saturday club vibesVIP birthday perksWinter White Party chaosAnd why the bathroom mirror selfie is mandatoryUpstairs: steak dinners and anniversaries. Downstairs: espresso martini shooters and early-2000s bangers. Duality. Support Tobacco Company: https://www.thetobaccocompany.com/ @tobaccocorva https://www.facebook.com/TobaccoCoDine/ Follow Erika: @erikawaszak 🌿 Big Daddy Segment We also break down Virginia’s move toward a regulated recreational marijuana market and what it could mean for the economy. Yes, stimulated economy jokes included. We also gush (again) about Harry's at Hofheimer and their Sing-Along Brunch — not just a meal, but a full-room main-character experience. DJs spinning nostalgic hits, strangers becoming backup vocalists, espresso martinis flowing, and the entire room committed to the bit. It’s chaotic in the best way and peak Richmond energy. We also want to give the biggest shoutout to Melanie Eaton, a Richmond-based luxury fashion, boudoir, and branding photographer who is truly redefining what confidence looks like behind (and in front of) the camera. Through her artistry and her ME Program, Melanie creates spaces where women feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. Her work blends editorial edge with heartfelt intention, and the community she’s built is just as beautiful as the images she captures. RVA is lucky to have her creative energy! Be sure to follow us for more great episodes! https://linktr.ee/olala_rva

    1h 17m
  2. RVA Takes Flight with HOVA Flight Services ✈️ | S3 #20

    JAN 26

    RVA Takes Flight with HOVA Flight Services ✈️ | S3 #20

    This week, we’re joined by Keith Bryan, Richmond-area native, Navy veteran, licensed pilot, and President & Managing Partner of HOVA Flight Services RVA at Hanover County Airport. From fueling planes at the very beginning of his career to helping lead one of Central Virginia’s most important (and underrated) aviation hubs, Keith’s story is all about passion, persistence, and staying deeply rooted in the RVA community. We dive into: How Keith got into aviation and his journey through the U.S. NavyLife on aircraft carriers (catapults, close calls, and unforgettable moments at sea)What actually happens at Hanover County Airport day to dayWhy small airports quietly bring millions into the RVA economyCelebrity sightings, private jets, and why some famous folks avoid RIC 👀Why flying is still safer than driving (yes, really)What it actually takes—time, money, and dedication—to become a pilotHow HOVA and PRK Aviation give back to the Richmond and Hanover communities We also talk Richmond’s evolution over the years, aviation egos, airport drama (it’s real), and why general aviation keeps things personal instead of sterile. Support HOVA Flight Services: @flyHOVA https://www.facebook.com/FlyHOVA 💥 Drop It On Us, Big Daddy: Big Daddy breaks down a headline-making local story involving Richmond Mayor Danny Avula and his use of ChatGPT. Plus: ✨ Business of the Week: HOVA Flight Services RVA 🎶 Show of the Week: Flying Legends of Victory Tour (stay tuned for actual dates) If you’ve ever driven past Hanover County Airport and wondered what goes on behind the scenes—or if you love learning how RVA really works—this episode is for you. Band of the Week: Poston Brown - Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Snoop Dogg Also check out Adult Recess at Ember Music Hall from 4-9PM (30+ day time clubbing) Jan 31st 🎧 Buckle up. It’s a smooth takeoff.

    58 min
  3. A Spoonful of Peru: Inside PACHA Spoonables 🇵🇪🥄 | S3 #19

    JAN 13

    A Spoonful of Peru: Inside PACHA Spoonables 🇵🇪🥄 | S3 #19

    Happy New Year, besties 💖 We’re kicking off the year with an episode that’s equal parts sweet, inspiring, and very RVA. This week we sit down with Fabrizio & Ximena, the new owners of PACHA Spoonables, a Richmond-based Peruvian dessert brand serving up spoonable treats rooted in culture, family, and flavor. Think cozy desserts, rich traditions, and desserts so good they’ll make you rethink everything you know about chocolate cake 🍫✨ 🍰 In This Episode: How PACHA Spoonables was born from family recipes and Peruvian prideWhat makes “spoonable” desserts the perfect intro to a new food culturePeruvian dessert favoritesBuilding a business as a family (yes, mom is the chef 👑)Why Richmond is the perfect place for global flavors to thriveFuture plans: seasonal flavors, events, coffee dreams, and more🇵🇪 Plus… Peruvian Trivia! We test everyone’s knowledge with fun facts about: Peru as a global culinary capital3,000+ varieties of potatoes 🥔Pisco sours, Machu Picchu, and iconic Latin desserts🗓️ RVA Events & Community: Lima Fest (Jan 18 & 19) – Richmond’s Peruvian cultural festival with food, music, dancing, and local vendors (yes, Pacha Spoonables will be there!)Show of the Week: 🎼 Let’s Groove Tonight with the Richmond Symphony📍 Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center📅 Friday, Feb 20 @ 7 PMMotown classics + full orchestra = classy with a funky twist✨ New Year, New You (But Make It Realistic): We also dive into: Wild New Year’s resolution stats (spoiler: most people quit 👀)How to actually stick to your goalsTrending 2026 resolutions like:Micro-joy journalingDigital detoxes (in small doses, don’t panic)Functional fitness over burnout workoutsFrom fitness goals and boundaries to weddings, martial arts, and learning to say no — this episode is full of laughs, honesty, and feel-good motivation. 💕 Support PACHA Spoonables: Facebook | Instagram | Ordering Orders close Tuesdays | Deliveries Fridays 📍 Catch them at Lima Fest & upcoming RVA events As always — thanks for listening, supporting local, and starting the year with us 💖

    58 min
  4. Main Character Energy with Melanie Eaton Photography 📸 | S3 #18

    12/30/2025

    Main Character Energy with Melanie Eaton Photography 📸 | S3 #18

    It’s the final episode of the year and we’re going out sparkly, chaotic, and very on brand ✨ This week, we’re joined by the incredible Melanie Eaton (Helms), Richmond-based luxury fashion, boudoir, and branding photographer, plus ME Program member Hannah, for a conversation about confidence, creativity, community, and taking bold artistic risks. We talk disposable cameras, Barbie shoots, Vikings, mermaids, snakes (yes, real ones), and why overthinking is the hardest thing to photograph. PLUS—Big Daddy brings us some truly unhinged Bad Santa crimes, and we round things out with high-key and low-key New Year’s Eve plans around Richmond. 💖 This Episode Includes: ✨ Main Character vs. Delulu Era energy check for 2025📸 Melanie Eaton’s journey from disposable cameras to high-end editorial photography👑 What confidence really looks like—and how to fake it until it sticks🤍 Inside The ME Program: empowerment, community, and hype-girl energy💄 Barbie shoots, Secret Gardens, Vikings, Sirens, Marie Antoinette, and creative chaos🐍 A photoshoot featuring a REAL snake (and facing fears)🎥 Why community matters more than perfection🏗️ Melanie’s upcoming studio glow-up🎅 Big Daddy’s Bad Santa Crimes (marijuana Santa, chimney Santa, Santa brawls)🥂 New Year’s Eve in RVA: high-key parties and soft-life options 🎉 New Year’s Eve Events We Cover: High-Key Midnight in Manhattan at Harry’s at the Hofheimer (Follow us on instagram for 1/2 off ticket prices on this one!!!)Y2K NYE Bash at Ember Music HallRoyal Masquerade Ball at The FoundationLow-Key / Soft Life Carytown dinner + strollWine flights at Brambly ParkArtsy NYE at the VMFA 🌸 Guest Info: Instagram: @melanieeatonphoto Facebook: @melanieeatonphoto Website: https://melanieeatonphotography.com/ Bookings for 2026 are OPEN 👀✨ As always—thank you for listening, laughing, and being part of our corner of RVA 💕 See you next year, besties 🥂✨ and be sure to follow us!

    1h 1m
  5. Anchor Desk Secrets & Holiday Spirits with Juan Conde 🌲  | S3 #17

    12/10/2025

    Anchor Desk Secrets & Holiday Spirits with Juan Conde 🌲 | S3 #17

    This week on O Lala in RVA, we’re sitting down with someone who truly helped shape how Richmond sees itself — Juan Conde. Journalist. Broadcaster. Community voice. Motorcycle enthusiast. And yes… that voice you’ve trusted for decades. From his early days in radio to 22 years behind the anchor desk, Juan has covered some of the most defining moments of our time — and he’s got the stories (and perspective) to prove it. We talk journalism, trust, the evolution of local news, and what it really takes to stay credible in an age of constant noise. Plus, Juan spills just enough about a very mysterious radio comeback 👀. And because it is O Lala — we also get festive, nostalgic, a little unhinged, and very Richmond. ✨ In This Episode: Juan’s journey from Brooklyn → DC → RVAHow he landed a TV anchor job without traditional newsroom trainingWhat’s changed (and what’s been lost) in local journalismCovering major events like 9/11, the DC Sniper case, hurricanes, and tragedies close to homeWhy there is no such thing as unbiased news — and how to work responsibly anywayThe power of saying “no” in your career 💅What viewers don’t realize about producing daily local newsBeing recognized, stalked, praised, and misunderstood in a public-facing roleThe moment Juan knew it was time to walk away from TVJournalism vs. theater (and why authenticity always wins)Life after the anchor desk: commercial real estate, PBS work, and consultingThat tease 👀 — Juan’s limited-run return to radioHis favorite holiday traditions, RVA nostalgia, and why this city still feels like home 🎄 Holiday Side Quests: Because we cannot stay serious for too long… Christmas tree trivia 🌲The pickle ornament tradition 🥒Drunk tree decorating (a classic)Tacky light tours gone very wrongFavorite Richmond holiday pop-up bars:Miracle on CaryCandy Cane Lane at MosaicTiz the Season at TerranceMy Noodle & Bar (surprise cozy queen)Black Lodge, Common House, and more🔍 Follow Juan: Facebook: Juan CondeInstagram: @juan_condé_rva (lurking > posting)Catch Juan on PBS National during fundraising campaignsKeep an eye out for updates on his upcoming radio project 👀

    1h 19m
  6. Sketchy Business: Interview With RVA Caricature Artist Eric Vinyard 🎨 | S3 #16

    11/11/2025

    Sketchy Business: Interview With RVA Caricature Artist Eric Vinyard 🎨 | S3 #16

    Richmond’s favorite caricature artist, Eric Vineyard, joins O Lala! in RVA to spill all the messy, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt details of life as a traveling caricature artist. From sketching drunk wedding guests to the day he accidentally gave a ride to someone picking up crack, Eric keeps it brutally honest and painfully funny. Eric opens up about getting fired (a lot), learning the ropes at Busch Gardens, getting banned for “Irish coffee mishaps,” and eventually becoming RVA’s go-to caricature artist on his own terms. He talks about his love-hate relationship with weddings, his wildest fairground moments, and why he’ll always draw you better if you just look up from your phone. We also play “Would You Draw This?”, where Eric tells us which requests he’d sketch sober, skip entirely, or only do if drunk — from toddlers mid-tantrum to couples with questionable poses. Follow Eric: https://www.instagram.com/ericscaricatures https://ericscaricatures.com Plus: 🐒 Big Daddy’s Drop It On Us: The escaped monkey saga in Mississippi (herpes, COVID rumors, and all)🎄 Upcoming RVA events — from GardenFest of Lights to Thanksgiving dinner spots and River City Roll & Rave🎁 Business of the Week: The Shops at 5807 — your one-stop, last-minute gift haven🎸 Band of the Week: Richmond’s own What’s Our Age Again🍸 Shoutouts to local icons, cake artists, new restaurants, and all the Christmas pop-up bars lighting up RVA Grab a gobbler from Wawa, pour a little whiskey (but maybe don’t draw after), and enjoy this sweet, sketch-filled episode with RVA’s funniest grump and most talented doodler.

    1h 4m
  7. Gothic Glow-Up & Ghoulish Good Times with Author Cat Baab 🦇 | S3 #15

    10/21/2025

    Gothic Glow-Up & Ghoulish Good Times with Author Cat Baab 🦇 | S3 #15

    O Lala! (In RVA) gets spooky with a special Halloween edition featuring author and journalist Catherine Baab — whose book Poe for Your Problems turned Edgar Allan Poe into an unlikely self-help icon. Now she’s back at it with her upcoming project, Gothic Glow-Up: Mary Shelley’s Guide to Stitching Yourself Back Together. We talk Frankenstein, free love, grief, genius, and the surprisingly messy (and sexy?) lives of 19th-century writers. It’s brains, bangers, and a whole lot of gothic gossip — perfect for a cozy October listen. Then, Big Voodoo Daddy drops his “Big Daddy Topic” — the eerie origins of trick-or-treating and the world’s weirdest Halloween traditions (yes, some countries hide their knives 👀). We also highlight a spooky Richmond band, a bold new Carytown boutique, and all the Halloween happenings you don’t wanna miss. 🧠 Topics We Cover Cat’s upcoming book Gothic Glow-Up and her deep dive into Mary Shelley’s lifeWhy Shelley’s husband Percy was the ultimate gothic f-boyHow grief, trauma, and genius collide in FrankensteinGothic trivia showdown (Olivia vs. Big Daddy — who wins?)The eerie history of trick-or-treating and Halloween across the globeLocal RVA shoutouts: from the Broadberry’s Halloween Bash to the return of the Gunhole (yes, that Gunhole)Our Band of the Week: WindhandOur Business of the Week: Hiss Off, a Harajuku-inspired boutique in Carytown💀 Guest Spotlight: Cat Baab 🖤 Author of Poe for Your Problems 📖 Working on Gothic Glow-Up (coming soon!) 💬 Find her at @authorcatherinebaab 👻 Follow her on Facebook for gothic humor and literary musings. 🍸 Local Shoutouts Windhand — Doom metal darlings of RVAHiss Off — Vintage goth-meets-Y2K boutique by Sophie Smith (behind Can Can)Reveler at Carytown — Hosting The Embalmers & Crack Fox this HalloweenRed Vein Haunted House — Our favorite haunted hangout (VIP tickets = worth it)The Gunhole at The Valentine Museum — She’s back, baby!

    56 min
5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Two blondes (and Big Daddy) interviewing RVA's most interesting locals and making you laugh in the process. 🪩✨ Through our upbeat and comedic episodes, we shine a spotlight and connect the many subcultures that exist within our city. You'll hear about the bar scene, fashion, local business, entrepreneurship, personal struggles, music, non-profits and much more! Follow us on Instagram to see what we're up to @olala_RVA