I Am Northwest Arkansas®

*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.

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Mentioned in this episode:

ONBoardNWA.com

Looking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.

Groundwork NWA

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

IANWA Signature Bank Commercial GH

Unwrapping Success: The Black Paper Party Story from Shark Tank to Cultural Celebration

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

12/18/23 • 53 min

About the Show:

"Walmart's probably one of the greatest incubators for businesses.”

- Jasmine Hudson

In this episode of "I am Northwest Arkansas," we spotlight the innovative trio behind Black Paper Party: Jasmine Hudson, J'Aaron Merchant, and Madia Willis. While Madia couldn't join us, her role is pivotal in their venture, which is revolutionizing holiday celebrations with a focus on cultural representation.

Jasmine and J'Aaron, who are here to share their journey, have masterfully blended artistic vision with business savvy. They've filled a significant gap in the market, creating products that celebrate the Black community. Their line, featuring black Santas, angels, and black children, brings joy and a sense of belonging to African-American families during the holidays.

Their dedication to elevating Black culture has led to impressive partnerships with major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Macy's. But the most exciting development for Black Paper Party is their recent feature on the 15th season of Shark Tank. There, they struck a deal with Shark Barbara Corcoran, marking a significant milestone in their journey.

This episode delves into how Jasmine, J'Aaron, and Madia's collaborative spirit and diverse talents have built a business that not only meets a unique market need but also inspires diversity and representation in commerce. With their Shark Tank success, the future looks incredibly bright for Black Paper Party.

What you will learn in this episode:

Gain a deeper understanding of the importance of representation in products and how it impacts diverse audiences.
Discover the powerful impact of Black Paper Party's designs on both individuals and communities.
Explore the benefits of autonomy and independence in your work, and how it can lead to greater creativity and success.
Learn the value of community engagement and local partnerships in driving the growth and impact of your product design business.
Uncover the motivation behind Black Paper Party's mission and how it can inspire and inform your own entrepreneurial journey.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*

Black Paper Party Website

Black Paper Party on Instagram

Black Paper Party on LinkedIn

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large.

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
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Connect With Our

Hunkering Down for Week Two - Covid-19

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

03/30/20 • 18 min

Sharing our thoughts and insights two weeks into staying home except for essential trips to the store and gas here in Northwest Arkansas.

Mentioned in this episode:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

🦉 About HootOwl Legal Planning for the future doesn’t have to be complicated. HootOwl Legal helps individuals and families in Northwest Arkansas with personalized estate planning, including wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and guardianship solutions. Their approachable and transparent process ensures you have peace of mind—now and for the future. Learn more at hootowllegal.com and take the first step in protecting what matters most.

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"

Hope where Hope is needed most - The Evolution of Hope Academy in Bentonville

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

03/17/20 • 43 min

A brief summary of this episode

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Omar Kasim is building an App during the Pandemic and its working!

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

05/18/20 • 30 min

A brief summary of this episode

Mentioned in this episode:

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

FindItNWA.com

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Keith Kidd on why Razorbacks, Vikings, and Chicken and Waffles make a great combination.

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

08/17/20 • 36 min

About the Show:

In this episode, we sit down with Keith Kidd, Founder of KDK Chicken & Waffles. Keith has been around Northwest Arkansas for more than 40 years. He originally came up here to play football for the Razorbacks back in 1980, made it to the NFL as a ninth-round draft pick with the Minnesota Vikings, and then found his way back to the Ozarks at the end of his pro football career.

Keith’s entrepreneurial journey started with his janitorial business which he has run for many years. A fortuitous haircut appointment, a few years ago ended up sending Keith on a different entrepreneurial path with the start of KDK’s Chicken and Waffles. Originally rolled out in a food truck at Fiesta Square, Keith has grown the business and his reputation for the best chicken and waffle combination in Northwest Arkansas. He has been a source of down-home comfort food to everyone that’s visited his food truck including the thousands of University of Arkansas students and student athletes.

Woo Pig!

Hear all about Keith’s fascinating journey on this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show* This episode is sponsored by*

*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 [email protected]
Connect With Our Facebook Page
Connect With Us on Threads
Connect With Our Instagram
Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
Join 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:

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

FindItNWA.com

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Mervin Jebaraj is Economically In Tune with Northwest Arkansas

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

08/03/20 • 44 min

About the Show:

In this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas, we sit down with local Economist and Director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Arkansas, Mervin Jebaraj, to discuss the local and national economy and how Covid-19 has affected things and when we can expect to bounce back from this pandemic.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show* This episode is sponsored by*

*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 [email protected]
Connect With Our Facebook Page
Connect With Us on Threads
Connect With Our Instagram
Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
Join 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

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Flipping NWA with Jennifer McMurray

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

07/20/20 • 51 min

About the Show:

Our Guest on the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast, Jennifer McMurray, is living proof that you don't have to let Student Loan Debt get you down. Learn how she figured out a way to pay off $72K in Student Loan debt by Flipping Houses right here in Northwest Arkansas.

Jennifer's story may sound amazing. It is, but when you actually hear her tell how she problem solved her student loan debt and in the process built a profitable business you may think it's time for you to get off the couch and start something too. Jennifer McMurray is the #BacheloretteFlipPad and she is out to build her Flipping Empire.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show* This episode is sponsored by*

*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 [email protected]
Connect With Our Facebook Page
Connect With Us on Threads
Connect With Our Instagram
Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
Join 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:

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

FindItNWA.com

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Mastering Science, Yoga and Social Media with Dr. Nicole Calhoun

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

07/13/20 • 44 min

Show Notes Coming Soon

Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

Hoot Owl Legal Ver 2

NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)

Beyond Books: How the Bentonville Public Library is Reinventing Community

I Am Northwest Arkansas®

04/21/25 • 38 min

About the Show:

"Libraries are not just about books; they are about community, connection, and creativity."

- Hadi Dudley

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn visits the Bentonville Public Library, where he engages with Library Director Hadi Dudley and Marketing Communications Head Tara Clark. This conversation dives deep into the library's recent $16 million renovation and expansion, showcasing how the library has transformed into a vibrant community hub that embraces learning in all its forms.

Hadi and Tara share insights on the library's new features, including a makerspace, outdoor learning gardens, and an exciting "Library of Things" collection that allows patrons to check out items beyond just books. They discuss the library's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that everyone in the community feels welcome and has access to valuable resources.

Listeners will discover the various programs offered at the library, from gardening initiatives to tutoring services, and learn how the library is adapting to meet the needs of its growing community. This episode is a celebration of the library's role in enhancing the quality of life in Bentonville and the importance of community engagement.

Key Takeaways:

Community Hub: The Bentonville Public Library serves as a welcoming space for all residents and visitors, fostering connections and learning.
Innovative Offerings: The library features a makerspace, outdoor learning gardens, and a diverse "Library of Things" collection.
Inclusivity: Programs and resources are tailored to meet the needs of the community, ensuring everyone feels represented.
Volunteer Opportunities: The library encourages community involvement through various volunteer programs for all ages.
Digital Resources: Patrons can access online learning tools like LinkedIn Learning and Tutor.com with their library cards.

All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*

Website: Bentonville Public Library

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Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.

This episode is sponsored by*