Discover Fort Smith

Discover Fort Smith
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  • PLACES & TRAVEL

Discover the story of Fort Smith in people's lives—recorded in places and spaces around town where the stories are unfolding! Hear from chefs, the Mayor, Miss America, and more... about why Fort Smith is a great place to visit, live, and work.

  1. 8H AGO

    Arkansas Colleges of Health Education’s PT Program with Allie Young

    What happens when healthcare, innovation, and heart collide? In this episode, we meet Allie Young, a physical therapist, professor, and local app creator working with Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE). Allie shares her journey from treating pediatric patients to educating the next generation of PTs — all while building tools that support new parents across the country.From developing the NurtureWell app to combatting rural healthcare shortages, burnout, and long waitlists, Allie is changing how care looks in Fort Smith. We also dive into how AI is shaping physical therapy, why movement is medicine, and the many ways Allie and her family enjoy life in Fort Smith — biking trails, community hangs, local eats, and more. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nurturewell/id6754331123 Relevant Links: • Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE):https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arkansas-colleges-of-health-education • Fort Smith Riverfront Trail:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront-trail • Ben Geren Regional Park:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-park • Fort Smith Museum of History:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history • U.S. Marshals Museum:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/national-us-marshals-museum

    29 min

  2. FEB 18

    Fort Smith Transit Deep Dive with Gregory Carthon

    Public transit is moving Fort Smith forward — literally. In this episode, Josh and Ashley sit down with Gregory Carthon, Transit Program Specialist, to talk all things Fort Smith Transit: how it works, who it helps, and why it matters. Greg shares his inspiring journey from college basketball to public service, his passion for accessibility, and how his team delivers over 255,000+ rides a year — including life-saving trips during snowstorms. From fixed routes and demand service to free ride days, mobile apps, and community partnerships, this episode showcases how transit is about far more than just a ride — it’s about freedom, dignity, and connection. Fort Smith Transit: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-transit Fort Smith Visitor Info: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/plan-your-visit Riverfront Bike Trail (mentioned activity): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/riverfront-trail Fort Smith’s Community Events: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/events

    40 min

  3. FEB 11

    Discover Wells Lake & Arkansas Wildlife at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center

    Explore the wild side of Fort Smith in this episode featuring Destin Smith, educator at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center. From kayaking and archery to rare duck sightings and scavenger hunts, Destin shares all the outdoor experiences available for families, kids, and adventure seekers — and they’re all free!Learn how the center educates over 1,500 students a year, get the scoop on upcoming 2026 renovations, and discover why hunting is key to managing Arkansas’s wildlife. Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, or just curious about critters, this episode will inspire your next outdoor outing.⸻🔗 Relevant Links: • Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/janet-huckabee-nature-center • Arkansas Game and Fish Commission:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/arkansas-game-and-fish-commission • Ben Geren Regional Park:https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-park • Fort Chaffee Barbershop Museum (near Chaffee area wildlife):https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-chaffee-barbershop-museum

    20 min

  4. FEB 10

    The Heart Behind Olive Coffee with Colby & Hannah Barker

    In this inspiring episode of the Fort Smith Podcast, we sit down with Colby and Hannah Barker, the heart and hustle behind Olive Coffee Company. From their small-town roots in Mulberry, Arkansas, to becoming thriving entrepreneurs and community builders, the Barkers share their journey of launching a coffee brand rooted in connection, faith, and love for people. Discover how they grew from a coffee trailer to multiple brick-and-mortar locations, their passion for building community through coffee, and the story behind their beautifully meaningful name. Whether you’re a coffee lover, small business enthusiast, or someone who cherishes community, this episode is packed with warmth, wisdom, and a few laughs along the way. Relevant Links: Olive Coffee Company locations in Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/food-drink Downtown Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/downtown-fort-smith Eastside Baptist Church (upcoming Olive Coffee location): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/churches Fort Smith CVB: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com Local Shops & Boutiques: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/shopping Fort Smith Restaurants: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/restaurants Fort Smith Community & Events: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/events

    34 min

  5. FEB 5

    How JD Clayton Built a Music Career from a Small Town Start

    🎶 From Fort Smith to Nashville and back — JD Clayton shares his musical journey, influences, and the road to making a name in the industry. In this episode, JD opens up about growing up in Fort Smith, his early love for music inspired by his grandfather’s bluegrass band, and how playing piano and writing songs became his true calling. He talks about the grind of landscaping during the pandemic while chasing dreams in Nashville, the story behind his breakout EP Long Way From Home, and how returning to Fort Smith helped him stay grounded while balancing family life and music. We also dive into his creative process, favorite local restaurants, and thoughts on AI in the music industry. Whether you’re a fan of authentic songwriting or just love a good hometown success story — this episode is for you! Relevant Links: Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district Fort Smith Museum of History: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-museum-of-history Fort Smith National Historic Site: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-national-historic-site Fort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museum Discover Local Dining: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/restaurants

    49 min

  6. JAN 21

    Guiding Foster Youth at GetREAL - Jensen Long

    In this heartwarming and insightful episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast, we sit down with Jensen Long, Director of Development at the Fort Smith Children’s Shelter and its transformational GetREAL program. Jensen shares her personal journey from growing up in Fort Smith to leading one of the most impactful youth initiatives in Arkansas. GetREAL provides safe housing, mentorship, and life coaching to foster youth ages 18–21—many of whom age out of the system without family or support. Learn how this unique program helps them build essential life skills, find community, and rewrite their stories. We also dive into Fort Smith’s vibrant local culture—favorite coffee shops, parks, restaurants, and more that make the city such a special place to call home. This episode is a moving look at resilience, community, and what it means to truly support our youth. 🔗 Relevant Links: Fort Smith Children’s Shelter: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-childrens-shelter Bakery District: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/bakery-district Clayton House: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/clayton-house Fort Smith Regional Art Museum: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-regional-art-museum Fort Smith Coffee Shops: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/coffee-shops Fort Smith Parks: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/parks Hideaway Pizza: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/hideaway-pizza The Rialto: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/the-rialto The Majestic: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/the-majestic

    29 min

  7. JAN 14

    Building a Life in Fort Smith: The Stojanovic Family’s Journey

    In this heartfelt episode of the Discover Fort Smith podcast, Dusan and Maddie Stojanovic share their powerful journey of resilience, love, and community. From Dusan’s move from Serbia to Fort Smith on a basketball scholarship, to the couple’s shared challenges navigating immigration, marriage, and a serious health scare with their newborn son, this episode is a touching reminder of the strength found in community. They reflect on what it means to call Fort Smith “home,” how the generosity of local people helped them through uncertain times, and the ways they now give back—through coaching, nonprofit leadership, and simply showing up. Tune in for an inspiring story that celebrates love, culture, and the soul of Fort Smith. UAFS (University of Arkansas – Fort Smith): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/university-of-arkansas-fort-smith Boys and Girls Club of Fort Smith: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/boys-girls-club Creekmore Park & Tennis Courts: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/creekmore-park Ben Geren Regional Park (Sand Volleyball Courts): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/ben-geren-regional-park United Way Fort Smith Area: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/united-way Downtown Fort Smith (Rolando’s Restaurante): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/downtown-fort-smith Midland Market: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/midland-boulevard-market

    41 min

  8. JAN 7

    Shea Foldvary on How United Way of Fort Smith Returns 100% of Donations Locally

    In this episode of the Discover Fort Smith Podcast, hosts Josh and Ashley welcome Shea Foldvary, President & CEO of United Way of Fort Smith, for an in-depth conversation on the power of giving, strategic community investment, and the incredible legacy of one of Fort Smith’s most trusted nonprofit organizations. Shea shares how United Way of Fort Smith operates one of the only 100% pass-through models in the country, thanks to a visionary local endowment. Learn how they support 31 partner agencies across six counties in Arkansas and Oklahoma, ensuring that every dollar donated stays local and goes exactly where it’s needed most. We also dive into how United Way mobilized during the 2019 Arkansas River flood, the organization’s community investment process, and how they’re helping with everyday needs through tools like their Community Resource Guide. Plus, Shea reflects on Fort Smith’s growth, the future of I-49 and Bass Pro, and where he likes to grab pizza with his family. Relevant Links: United Way of Fort Smith: https://www.unitedwayfortsmith.org Community Resource Guide: https://www.unitedwayfortsmith.org/resources/ Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: https://www.unitedwayfortsmith.org/imagination-library Fort Smith Convention Center: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-convention-center Hideaway Pizza: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/hideaway-pizza Orlando’s Italian Restaurant: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/orlandos Fort Smith Parks: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/parks Fort Smith Regional Airport: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/fort-smith-airport Central Mall: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/central-mall

    23 min
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Discover the story of Fort Smith in people's lives—recorded in places and spaces around town where the stories are unfolding! Hear from chefs, the Mayor, Miss America, and more... about why Fort Smith is a great place to visit, live, and work.

Information

  • Creator
    Discover Fort Smith
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Discover Fort Smith
  • Show Website
    Discover Fort Smith