FXBG Neighbors Podcast

Dori Stewart
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Fredericksburg Neighbors Podcast

  1. EP #128 From Dutch Roots To A Million Tulips

    1D AGO

    EP #128 From Dutch Roots To A Million Tulips

    Spring doesn’t start on a calendar—it starts when a field explodes into color. We sit down with Bloomia CEO Werner Jansen to explore how a Dutch-rooted company built America’s largest cut tulip operation right here in King George County, supplying roughly 120 million stems a year to retailers like Whole Foods, Kroger, Wegmans, and Publix. Werner pulls back the curtain on hydroponic tulip growing—no soil, no pesticides, just carefully balanced water and nutrients—showing why this sustainable method yields cleaner stems, consistent quality, and longer vase life. From there, we share a first look at Bloomia’s new Tulip Festival, planned for mid to late April, when one million tulips will open for a pick-your-own experience across two consecutive weekends. Picture walking vibrant rows, choosing your stems, and then grabbing a bite from local food trucks while enjoying live music and pours from regional breweries and wineries. It’s more than a farm visit; it’s a community celebration designed to draw guests from DC, Maryland, Richmond, and Fredericksburg into the broader local economy and the charm of historic downtown. Werner’s journey adds a human heartbeat to the story. Trained in banking and finance and once working for a trading firm in London, he returned to Bloomia, moved to Virginia in 2017, and rose from general manager to owner and CEO as the operation scaled rapidly. His blend of analytical rigor and agricultural entrepreneurship offers practical insights on leadership, sustainability, and building a brand that’s both nationally scaled and locally grounded. Want to join the celebration or stay updated on festival dates and ticket releases? Visit bloomia.com and bloomiaflowers.com, and follow Bloomia on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. If this conversation brought a little color to your day, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more neighbors find the show. Werner Jansen Bloomia bloomia.com bloomiaflowers.com info@bloomia.com + (540) 399-1567 2259 Kings Highway King George, VA 22485 USA

    8 min
  2. EP #127 How The Knowledge Exchange Makes Learning Accessible For Every Student

    1D AGO

    EP #127 How The Knowledge Exchange Makes Learning Accessible For Every Student

    What if tutoring felt less like a transaction and more like a village? We sit down with Maija - Liisa Penn, CEO and co-founder of The Knowledge Exchange, to explore how a small Fredericksburg nonprofit delivers big impact through free, holistic, and evidence-based learning support. From K–12 students with IEPs or 504s to adults preparing for the GED or college classes, their model removes cost barriers while building a true partnership among tutors, families, and schools. Maija shares her journey from special education and applied behavior analysis into community-driven leadership, and why her own experience as an undiagnosed learner fuels the mission. We talk about what typical tutoring misses—rigid curricula, weak home follow-through, and stigma—and how TKE flips the script by making parents active collaborators. Assignments continue between sessions, caregivers know what to reinforce, and teachers gain allies who understand accommodations and goals. The result is a continuum of support that turns short-term gains into lasting skills. You’ll also hear how Dungeons & Dragons became an unexpected engine for growth. In their role-playing programs, learners practice planning, collaboration, problem-solving, and flexible thinking while having fun. The numbers tell the story: strong retention across youth and adult sessions, thriving summer programs that blend academics with gameplay, and students returning year after year. Beyond the table, TKE builds community capacity—contracting tutors, training enrichment leaders, and welcoming interns who want real-world experience in grants, outreach, or administration. If you’re in the Fredericksburg area and want to get involved, there are many paths: apply for services, become a tutor or DM, volunteer behind the scenes, or make a tax-deductible donation to expand access. Subscribe, share this episode with a neighbor who cares about education equity, and leave a quick review to help more families find these resources. Maija - Liisa Penn The Knowledge Exchange tkenonprofit.org support@tkenonprofit.org +1 540-412-8431

    13 min
  3. EP #126 Numbers Matter For Local Growth

    1D AGO

    EP #126 Numbers Matter For Local Growth

    What if one word on a test—or one poorly written survey question—cost your students points or pushed your customers away? We sit down with Dr. Jones, founder of Numbers Matter LLC, to unpack how psychometrics and smart data practices help schools, agencies, and local businesses make confident, evidence-based decisions. Dr. Jones shares the origin of Numbers Matter, her path from federal psychometrician to entrepreneur, and the purpose behind the name. We dig into clear examples of how language bias skews results—like the “soda vs pop” trap—and how small changes in wording, sequencing, and item design can dramatically improve fairness and accuracy. You’ll hear how her team builds tight, 10-question electronic surveys, runs the right analyses, and converts findings into practical moves for small businesses: better lighting, clearer signage, streamlined checkout, and more. The focus is always the same—measure what matters, then act with precision. We also talk candidly about starting and sustaining a young company. Dr. Jones lays out grounded advice: do your homework on demand and trademarks, prepare for slow seasons with cash buffers or part-time anchors, and find two or three mentors who’ll challenge your assumptions. Most of all, test your why. A strong purpose steadies you when the inbox is quiet and the to-do list is loud. Whether you lead a shop on Main Street, manage a training program, or oversee high-stakes exams, this conversation offers a blueprint for turning messy feedback into better outcomes. If you’re ready to replace hunches with honest signals and move from data to decisions, this one’s for you. Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more neighbors can find it. Dr. Jones Numbers Matter LLC numbersmatterllc.net drjones@numbersmatterllc.net 571-866-1662

    16 min
  4. EP #125 Consistency, Craft, And The Quiet Power Of Good Products

    2D AGO

    EP #125 Consistency, Craft, And The Quiet Power Of Good Products

    Great hair isn’t an accident—it’s the result of clear conversations, consistent maintenance, and products that truly perform. We sit down with Kat, owner of Kat’s Beauty Lounge in Fredericksburg, to explore how she builds a client experience that starts long before the first snip. From thoughtful consultations to lifestyle-first plans, she shows how to make your look last, feel better, and fit your routine without the endless upkeep. We dig into the full menu: quick mini visits like bang trims and taper clean-ups, structured haircut categories that ensure the right time for every length, and color services guided by your hair history rather than guesswork. Kat explains why prices can vary between stylists—even in the same salon—breaking down overhead, amenities, and the real difference premium products make to shine, longevity, and hair health. Her analogies are simple and sharp: think restaurant menus, tailored orders, and keeping the “buttons” of your look tight between major services. For aspiring salon owners and creative entrepreneurs, Kat opens up about the grind behind the glam. She shares honest lessons on consistency over intensity, preparing for the unexpected, navigating burnout, and moving forward even when fear doesn’t budge. Ownership, she says, is freedom paired with accountability—and personal growth is the system that keeps the doors open and the energy right. We close by spotlighting the value of choosing aligned product partners and creating a space where clients feel seen, comfortable, and confident. If you’re curious about smarter hair care, transparent pricing, and the business backbone of a modern salon, this conversation is for you. Listen now, subscribe for more stories of local builders and brands, and leave a review to tell us your biggest hair myth or maintenance win. Kat Halstead Kat's Beauty Lounge katsbeautylounge.glossgenius.com katsbeautylounge@gmail.com +1 410-322-7692 74 Chatham Heights rd, Fredericksburg, VA, United States, Virginia

    19 min
  5. EP #124 Inside Battlefield Ink: Redefining The Tattoo Experience For Professionals

    2D AGO

    EP #124 Inside Battlefield Ink: Redefining The Tattoo Experience For Professionals

    Tattoos should feel as good as they look. That’s the belief powering Battlefield Ink, a Fredericksburg studio where hospitality, precision, and professionalism turn body art into a luxury you actually experience. We sit down with owner and lead artist Gary McCord to unpack what “luxury tattooing” means without the fluff—fair pricing, zero gimmicks, and a studio culture designed to lower stress, raise standards, and protect long-term results. Gary’s path runs from the United States Marine Corps to an MBA to a transformative apprenticeship at a high-end studio serving elite clients. That journey forged a leadership style built on discipline and care: inspect what you expect, lead from the front, and make the process as thoughtful as the art. He explains how that philosophy shapes everything at Battlefield Ink, from spotless setups and clear communication to a code of conduct that empowers artists to do their best work. The result is a team that can handle complex cover-ups, fine-line precision, and large-scale pieces with consistency and respect. We also dig into permanent makeup services—brows, eyeliner, lips, and scalp micropigmentation—delivered by a licensed specialist who brings the same calm, detailed approach. Gary shares how the shop grew from early hiring doubts to a strong roster of artists, why the studio avoids discounts in favor of steady, fair rates, and how creating a serene space helps clients make better choices and heal better. If you’re planning a sleeve, a back piece, or a confidence-boosting PMU treatment, you’ll hear exactly what to look for in portfolios, consultations, and shop culture. Curious what a truly elevated tattoo experience feels like? Check out Battlefield Ink on Instagram for daily stories, reels, and artist portfolios, or visit battlefieldink.com to learn more. If this conversation sparks ideas or helps you choose your next artist, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a quick review—what does “luxury” mean to you when it comes to ink? Gary McCord Battlefield Ink battlefieldink.com Battlefield.Ink@gmail.com 540 - 903 - 1380

    17 min
  6. EP #123 Estate Planning For Every Family

    2D AGO

    EP #123 Estate Planning For Every Family

    Planning for tomorrow isn’t about fear; it’s about keeping your voice when life throws curveballs. We sit down with attorney Christina Parrish of Parrish Law Partners to unpack what real-world estate planning looks like when you blend legal expertise with lived caregiving experience. From the first shock of a health crisis to the quiet logistics of paying bills and accessing records, Christina offers a grounded path that helps families act with confidence instead of panic. We explore the two sides of a complete plan: legacy planning that directs where assets go and incapacity planning that empowers someone you trust to make medical and financial decisions if you can’t. Christina brings a practical, finance-forward lens from her background in bankruptcy and business, showing how risk, titling, and beneficiary designations can make or break a plan. She reveals common mistakes—thinking a will alone is enough, ignoring powers of attorney, overlooking retirement account beneficiaries—and shares how to align everyday life with the documents meant to protect it. You’ll hear why “you don’t need to be wealthy to need a plan,” how young parents can prepare for travel and guardianship concerns, and what adult children should do as their parents age. Christina’s boutique approach means clients get one-on-one counsel, clear steps, and a calm guide during tough moments. If you’ve put off wills, powers of attorney, or advance medical directives, this conversation turns a daunting task into a thoughtful checklist that protects relationships, preserves dignity, and reduces stress when it matters most. If this episode helps you think differently about planning, share it with someone you love, subscribe for more local stories and practical insights, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Christina Parrish Parrish Law Partners, PLLC parrishlawpartners.com contact@parrishlawpartners.com +1 540-712-6714 150 Riverside Parkway, Suite 115, Fredericksburg, VA 22406

    11 min
  7. EP #122 From Pregnancy To Menopause: Real Help For Women’s Pelvic Health

    FEB 26

    EP #122 From Pregnancy To Menopause: Real Help For Women’s Pelvic Health

    Most people are told to “live with it” when their body starts sending signals—leaks when they laugh, pelvic pain during pregnancy, discomfort with intimacy, or exercise setbacks that feel mysterious. We wanted a better answer, so we invited Dr. TaLisa Taylor, founder of Taylored 4 You Health and Wellness, to break down what pelvic health physical therapy actually does and how it changes daily life for women at every stage. Dr. Taylor walks us through practical, stigma-free care from adolescence to perimenopause and menopause. We explore pregnancy support that goes beyond generic tips: how to manage pelvic and back pain, prep for birth with breathing and pushing strategies, and build body awareness that speeds postpartum recovery. She addresses urinary incontinence with a clear message—common isn’t normal—and explains why coordination and pressure management often matter more than brute strength. With consent-based internal and external exams, she pinpoints what each person needs, removing guesswork and making every exercise count. We also dig into menopausal changes—vaginal dryness, painful intimacy, joint discomfort—and how pelvic floor therapy, mobility work, and smart training can restore comfort and confidence. On the community side, Dr. Taylor shares how workshops at Pilates, barre, and boot camp studios open doors, why one-in-three women live with pelvic floor dysfunction, and how local moms’ groups and social media help women find credible support fast. If you’ve ever wondered whether leaks are just your “new normal,” or if birth and menopause have to be a grind, this conversation offers a grounded, hopeful path forward. Subscribe for more local stories with real solutions, share this episode with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review to help more neighbors find the show. Dr. TaLisa Taylor Taylored 4 You Health and Wellness tayloredhealwell.com info@tayloredhealwell.com +1 540-572-7595 10708 Ballantraye Drive, Suite 206, Fredericksburg, VA

    13 min
  8. EP #121 From Family Gym To Community Hub: Gracie Barra Fredericksburg

    FEB 26

    EP #121 From Family Gym To Community Hub: Gracie Barra Fredericksburg

    Ever wondered if a martial art could feel like a second home? We sit down with Laura Fenton from Gracie Barra Fredericksburg to share how a family’s search for a dad–daughter activity grew into a welcoming academy where parents, kids, beginners, and competitors train side by side. This is Brazilian jiu jitsu without the bravado—safe, structured, and designed to help you start where you are. Laura breaks down what jiu jitsu actually is: a gentle art rooted in practical self-defense, a sport with clear rules, and a path that rewards patience over ego. We explore the Gracie Barra curriculum that syncs themes across ages so families can learn together at their own pace. You’ll hear how three-year-old “Little Champs” become confident teens, why rash guards and clean mat culture matter for safety, and how thoughtful partner matching supports every body type. She also addresses big myths head-on: you don’t need to be fit to begin, it’s not just for men, and the black belt is a long, earned journey rather than a quick destination. Beyond the mats, Laura paints a picture of a true community hub—coloring books for siblings, parents connecting in a lounge-like space, and neighbors supporting nearby small businesses by the Stafford Airport. Inclusivity shows up in the details: modifications for injuries, predictable structure that helps kids on the spectrum focus, and coaching that turns nerves into steady progress. If you’ve been searching for a local activity that blends real self-defense, fitness, and belonging, this conversation is your green light. Ready to try without pressure? Laura shares how to visit the academy on Centerport Parkway, set up a no-commitment trial, and take the first step. If this resonated, subscribe, share with a friend who needs the nudge, and leave a review to help more neighbors find their way onto the mats. Laura Fenton Gracie Barra Fredericksburg graciebarra.com info@gbfredericksburg.com +1 540-368-4637 45 Centreport Parkway Suite 103, Fredericksburg, VA

    15 min
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About

Fredericksburg Neighbors Podcast

Information

  • Creator
    Dori Stewart
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    128
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 FXBG Neighbors Podcast
  • Show Website
    FXBG Neighbors Podcast