I Am Northwest Arkansas®

Randy Wilburn
  • 4.8 (55)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

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.

  1. Aug 31

    Unlocking Entrepreneurial Success in Northwest Arkansas: How Early-Stage Capital and AI Are Shaping the Future

    About the Show:“You don't need an idea to start a company. You need the scrappiness and grit and durability, and then the recognition of someone with a good idea... that makes it more possible for more people to start businesses together.” – Michael Basch 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 Michael Basch of Renaissance Philanthropy to dig into the next chapter for entrepreneurship in Northwest Arkansas. The conversation looks at how the region is growing when it comes to startups, access to capital, and why the newest path to business success may be smaller, focused, and driven by artificial intelligence. Michael shares stories from his coast-to-coast career, insider tips on what makes NWA special, and why the old rulebook for startups is being rewritten right here. The episode highlights the brand new Northwest Arkansas Innovation Fund and discusses how it's set up to support both high-growth tech companies and Main Street businesses. The conversation also explains how AI is shrinking teams and startup costs, unlocking new possibilities, and why success in NWA looks different than chasing Silicon Valley's unicorns. This episode will inspire anyone who thinks about starting a business or wants to better understand the local startup scene. Key Takeaways: • You Don't Have to Leave Home to Win: Northwest Arkansas has everything needed to launch strong businesses—capital, mentors, resources, and community spirit. • Rethinking Success: Small, profitable companies (not just billion-dollar unicorns) can be a big win for founders and the region. • Filling the Capital Gap: The new Northwest Arkansas Innovation Fund is targeting early-stage businesses that often fall between accelerator support and traditional venture capital. • AI Powers Small Teams: A team of 2-3 people with AI tools can now build and scale a company—no need for huge headcounts or sky-high funding. • Main Street Matters: Restaurants, camps, and local businesses can also find help from this fund, not just tech startups. • Paying It Forward: The region is getting close to a self-sustaining ecosystem, where local success stories help launch and fund the next wave of entrepreneurs. • Collaboration Is Key: Partnerships between NWA and Tulsa organizations have helped build momentum and connect founders with capital and ideas. • Focus on Problems: The best founders are deeply invested in solving problems they know inside and out. All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Renaissance Philanthropy Website (Northwest Arkansas Innovation Fund info): renphil.org — find Launch 479 and Catalyze 479 details under “Funds”Michael Basch LinkedIn (contact): Michael Basch on LinkedInEmail for info: m.basch@renfrew.orgCompound FoundryAcreTraderOx (Pushkin, Simporter also referenced)Launch 479 (entrepreneurial fellowship, aiming to launch new companies in NWA)Catalyze 479 (early-stage investment fund)412 Angels NetworkStartup JunkieUpVenturesMain Street coffee shops: Onyx Coffee Lab, Airship 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:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn Thank you for listening to this I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks. Mentioned in this episode: Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026

    Unlocking Entrepreneurial Success in Northwest Arkansas: How Early-Stage Capital and AI Are Shaping the Future

  2. Aug 17

    Building Community and Conservation with Jeremy Hudson of Specialized Real Estate Group

    About the Show:"I hope that our legacy is that we leave behind some really great places and neighborhoods." — Jeremy Hudson In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Jeremy Hudson, co-founder and CEO of Specialized Real Estate Group, a Fayetteville-based development and property management company that has spent nearly two decades asking one question: how do we help this region grow without losing what makes it special? Recorded on-site at the Stonebreaker inside Markham Hill, the conversation traces Jeremy's path from a standard real estate deal (Echo Modern Flats) to a full-fledged philosophy of "cultivating healthy neighborhoods" — one that put sustainability, health, and community ahead of the usual playbook. They dig into the story behind Markham Hill, a 119-acre neighborhood built around old-growth Ozark forest and a 39-acre conservation easement with the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust—six years in the making before a single home went up. They also look ahead to Drake Farms, a 165-acre mixed-use district on Fayetteville's north side designed to unfold over the next 15 to 20 years. Whether you're into real estate, conservation, or just want to understand how Northwest Arkansas is growing on purpose, this episode makes the case that the best developers are playing the longest game in the room. Key TakeawaysLong-Term Vision: The best projects think beyond the next quarter and look ahead 10 or 20 years into the region's future.Leading with Conservation: Markham Hill began with a focus on preserving nature, protecting over half its land, including 39 acres now in a conservation easement.Healthy Neighborhoods: Building health into both the environment and the homes themselves, from LEED certification to indoor air quality considerations.Community Connection: Real neighborhoods are built for people and gathering—not just for cars and houses.Patient Planning: Sometimes, the right move is taking six years of planning before building even begins, making sure every step honors the place and its past.Incremental Growth: Large-scale developments like Drake Farms are tackled one phase at a time, always with the goal of serving people and making neighborhoods better. All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Specialized Real Estate Group Website: specializedreg.comMarkham Hill Neighborhood: Markham HillThe Stonebreaker Hotel: The StonebreakerDrake Farms Project: Drake Farms ProjectNorthwest Arkansas Land Trust: nwalandtrust.orgRoots Festival: Roots FestivalLeverett Lounge: Leverett LoungeHugo's: Hugo'sEmail Jeremy Hudson: Jeremy@specializedreg.com This episode is sponsored by*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:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn 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: Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026

    Building Community and Conservation with Jeremy Hudson of Specialized Real Estate Group

  3. Aug 3

    Building a Music Ecosystem: Robyn Jordan and the HerSetHerSound Movement in NWA

    About the Show:"I want the people that I work with and who I represent and who I inspire to know that it's worth it, that they're worth it, that they're valuable." – Robyn Jordan In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with DJ, cultural facilitator, and HerSetHerSound founder Robyn Jordan to talk about the work she's doing to build greater economic opportunity, representation, and joy for women, people of color, and gender-diverse creatives in our region's music scene. Robyn shares how HerSetHerSound grew from a single festival into a year-round ecosystem—188 bookings, 55+ artists, and over $100,000 injected into the local creative economy. She talks about her own journey, why mentorship and intentional space-making matter, and why real empowerment means more than just "exposure." This one's for anyone who loves music, makes it, or cares about the people quietly shaping Northwest Arkansas's cultural life. Key Takeaways: Empowerment Through Action: HerSetHerSound has created real economic impact, paying artists fairly and centering women, people of color, and gender-diverse creatives both on and off the stage.Building Community, Not Just Events: Robyn emphasizes hospitality, intentional curation, and intersectionality, crafting spaces where every guest, artist, and vendor belongs and feels seen.The Power of Local Roots: Robyn’s journey from party-goer to business leader is rooted in family legacy, mentorship, and a belief in bringing big possibilities to communities outside major cities.Challenging Industry Norms: The conversation highlights persistent wage gaps and barriers in the creative industry, calling for accountability, credit, and investment in those who make our culture thrive.Vision for the Future: With ambitions for more venues, year-round programming, and continued partnership with groups like NWA Pride and Juneteenth, HerSetHerSound models what inclusive growth in Northwest Arkansas music and nightlife can look like. All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Her Set Her Sound WebsiteHer Set Her Sound on InstagramBooking Her Set Her SoundTickets & Festival Info: FESTIVAL | Empower Change Today — Join the Movement — HER SET HER SOUNDArkansas Soul — Outlet amplifying Black and Brown voicesDelta Dirt Distillery — Black-owned, Helena, ARIndigo Road Hospitality Group: theindigoroad.comCousins Lounge (shoutout): Cousins Bentonville on FacebookNWA Juneteenth: NWA Juneteenth FacebookNWA Pride / NWA Equality: nwapride.orgDJ Afrosia (mentioned local artist): DJ Afrosia InstagramFindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" *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:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn 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 Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport" FindItNWA.com Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026

    Building a Music Ecosystem: Robyn Jordan and the HerSetHerSound Movement in NWA

  4. Jul 20 ·  Bonus

    Best of IANWA: Repair, Don't Replace: Upkept.io's Mission to Transform Fashion's Environmental Footprint

    We're taking a short summer break from new episodes, and while we're out we're bringing back some of the most downloaded conversations from the past year. This one's a favorite whether you caught it the first time or you're just finding it now. Robin Wallis Atkinson, founder and CEO of Upkept, talks with Randy about the decline of garment repair skills and how her platform is making clothing repair simple and climate-friendly. This episode was part of our Future is Local series with the Walton Family Foundation. Why fast fashion has made it harder to repair clothes, and how Upkept is bringing that skill backHow thinking in terms of cost-per-wear can change the way you value what's already in your closet Website: upkept.io Listen to the original episode: https://iamnorthwestarkansas.com/335 Mentioned in this episode: Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026

    Best of IANWA: Repair, Don't Replace: Upkept.io's Mission to Transform Fashion's Environmental Footprint

  5. Jul 13 ·  Bonus

    Best of IANWA: It's Never Too Late to Do the Thing You Were Called to Do

    This one's personal for me. We're taking a short summer break, and while we're out I wanted to bring back some of our most downloaded episodes from the past year, including this one. Fresh off the TEDx Fayetteville stage, I shared the full talk and the stories behind it, including my grandfather Mal Goode's story of becoming ABC News's first Black correspondent at age 54. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to start something, this episode is for you. Why age can be an asset instead of a limitation, and how reinvention shows up throughout historyA simple three-step process I use to help you reflect, reframe, and reignite whatever you've been putting off Listen to the original episode: http://iamnorthwestarkansas.com/330 Mentioned in this episode: Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026 Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

    Best of IANWA: It's Never Too Late to Do the Thing You Were Called to Do

  6. Jul 6 ·  Bonus

    Best of IANWA: From Tricycles to Food Truck Parks: The Pedal Pops Story in Northwest Arkansas

    Summer's here and we're stepping away from the mic for a few weeks, so we're digging back into the archive to share some of our most downloaded conversations from the past year. This is one worth a second listen, or a first one if it's new to you. Lynn Wong and Mike Thompson turned a dream of an ice cream shop into Pedal Pops and Pedal Park, an all-natural fruit pop business that's grown into a real community hub in Farmington. This episode was part of our Future is Local series with the Walton Family Foundation. How a kitchen experiment turned into a beloved local brand built on customer feedback and creative flavorsWhy Pedal Park has become more than a food truck stop, hosting trivia nights, live music, and pop-up markets for the whole community Website: pedalpops.com Listen to the original episode: https://iamnorthwestarkansas.com/326 Mentioned in this episode: Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026 Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

    Best of IANWA: From Tricycles to Food Truck Parks: The Pedal Pops Story in Northwest Arkansas

  7. Jun 22

    Danielle Keller on Reviving Peekaboo Magazine and Building Community Connections in Northwest Arkansas

    About the Show:"I always want to have that posture of, like, what can I learn? How can I grow?" – Danielle Keller Danielle Keller didn't plan on becoming the steward of Northwest Arkansas's most beloved family magazine. She moved from California to Arkansas, built a life here as a mother and filmmaker, and somewhere along the way fell in love with the kind of community storytelling that big media rarely gets right. In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, Randy Wilburn sits down with Danielle to talk about her journey—from film and podcasting to relaunching Peekaboo Magazine in August 2025 with a bigger, higher-quality print edition that bets on something most people have written off. She makes the case for print in a digital world. Not as nostalgia. As intention. Personal essays from local parents, in-person community events, and real voices from across NWA — Peekaboo is proof that a magazine can still be a gathering place. This conversation is a reminder that the stories closest to home are often the ones worth telling most. Key Takeaways: Embrace Change and Growth: It's never too late to start something new or pivot your career—real growth often happens later in life.The Importance of Storytelling: Personal stories connect people and help communities feel seen, valued, and understood.Relationships Matter: Building relationships is key to both personal success and community building; everyone has something to offer.The Power of Local Media: Hyper-local publications like Peekaboo give a platform to everyday stories and voices that otherwise might not be heard.Print Isn’t Dead: There’s a renewed appreciation for tangible, high-quality media that people can hold, share, and keep on their coffee tables.Community Support: Sharing vulnerable stories can lead to compassion and real community action, supporting those who need it most.Be Inclusive: Not everyone is an extrovert—seek out and include those on the fringe, and help everyone feel welcome. All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Peekaboo magazine websitePeekaboo magazine on Facebook:Peekaboo magazine on LinkedIn:Peekaboo magazine on Instagram: @peekaboomagazinenwaPeople of Northwest Arkansas PodcastFayetteville Public LibraryDogpatch USA (featured in Danielle Keller’s documentary work)John Brown University (JBU)Bentonville Film FestivalParkside Public (casual date night spot)Confident Coffee (favorite coffee shop) You can pick up a physical copy of Peekaboo magazine at local libraries, museums, and family-focused spots throughout Northwest Arkansas—from Fayetteville to Bella Vista and Siloam Springs. This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" *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:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn 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 Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport" FindItNWA.com Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026

    Danielle Keller on Reviving Peekaboo Magazine and Building Community Connections in Northwest Arkansas

  8. Jun 8

    Black Paper Party’s Journey and the Endeavor Heartland Scale Up Experience

    About the Show:"Black Paper Party doesn't exist if it's not for the authentic representation of the Black diaspora and our products." – Jasmine Hudson What does it really take to build a business rooted in culture, stay true to your mission, and scale to 20,000 points of distribution—all from Northwest Arkansas? Jasmine Hudson, co-founder of Black Paper Party, is living proof that it's possible. In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn welcomes Jasmine back for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, representation, and what growth really looks like when you refuse to compromise your values. From packing orders in her garage during the early days to landing shelf space with major retailers, Jasmine pulls back the curtain on the journey—including what really happened after the Shark Tank cameras stopped rolling. Jasmine also shares how Black Paper Party is using AI and technology to operate smarter, what it means to be selected for the prestigious Endeavor Heartland Scale Up Accelerator, and why staying connected to the mission of celebrating Black joy and culture has been their greatest competitive advantage. Whether you're a founder grinding through the early stages, an entrepreneur looking to scale without losing your soul, or someone who simply believes that representation matters—this episode is for you. Pull up a chair and get ready to be inspired. Key Takeaways: Authenticity Matters: Staying true to your mission and serving your community is at the heart of lasting growth and brand loyalty.Growth Is a Journey: Black Paper Party went from the garage to major retailers by focusing on both process and relationships.Technology as a Tool: Leveraging AI can help small teams do more, from managing e-commerce to automating business tasks—but it should never replace original thinking.Retail Wisdom: Walmart can be a powerful incubator for brands, especially for those who understand their customer and the importance of scalability.Community and Networking: Programs like Endeavor Heartland Scale Up provide important mentorship and support, but you have to put in the work to benefit.Resilience in Business: Setbacks, like shipping disasters or lost deals, are part of the journey—true grit keeps you moving forward. All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast. Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Website: Black Paper PartyBlack Paper Party on InstagramBlack Paper Party on FacebookBlack Paper Party on LinkedInEndeavor Heartland Scale Up Accelerator: endeavor.org (Check show notes for direct links.)Canem Arkan Endeavor Heartland EmailShawn Morris Endeavor Heartland EmailJasmine Hudson on LinkedInFindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory This episode is sponsored by*Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" *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:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.comConnect With Our Facebook Page Connect With Us on Threads Connect With Our Instagram Connect With Our LinkedIn PageJoin The Facebook Group Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn 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 Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport" FindItNWA.com Winetopia 2026 Winetopia 2026 Date: Friday, October 16th Time: 7-10pm Place: Stonebreaker Hotel on Markham hill Winetopia is Restore Humanity’s biggest annual fundraiser and brings together the very best of Northwest Arkansas (restaurants, artisans, small businesses, and (community members) to support our work. While the event raises essential funds for children in Kenya, its heartbeat is entirely local. There are over 100 local businesses who contribute auction items, regional chefs and beverage makers who showcase their craft, and the hundreds of residents gathering to celebrate community generosity. Winetopia strengthens local partnerships, elevates homegrown talent, and reinforces Northwest Arkansas's identity as a place where global compassion is fueled by local collaboration. Winetopia is a beautiful demonstration of how a united local community can create life-changing impact for children and families worldwide. Winetopia 2026

    Black Paper Party’s Journey and the Endeavor Heartland Scale Up Experience
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4.8
out of 5
55 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Randy Wilburn
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    I Am Northwest Arkansas®

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