Ozark Flame & Flavor- Stephen "Fiery Redd" Curgan

In this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk with Bella Vista resident, and three-time League of Fire World Champion in competitive pepper eating Stephen “Fiery Redd” Curgan. We’ll talk about what got him into competitive pepper eating and we’ll also talk about the first-ever Ozark Flame & Flavor Festival happening this Saturday, but first?!?! FOOD NEWS!! Orthodox Farmhouse Brewing sold. We’ll tell you what the plans are. Dodo Coffee is OFFICIALLY open in their new building, and there’s a party Saturday. We’ll hear from owner Isaiah Ojeda! Fresh Monkee is having their soft opening week in Fayetteville. Shakes are half off! A Santa Barbara winery opened their only tasting room in Rogers. You’ll hear from the owner! Khana Grill closed their dining room, but you can still eat their food. We’ll explain. Downtown Springdale’s The Blind Bear is expanding into another city. El Jaliciense in Lowell might be closed, but they may not be done. Happy 25th anniversary to Grubs in downtown Fayetteville! Happy 31st anniversary to Marketplace in Springdale! Happy 4th anniversary to Conifer and Chef Matt Cooper. Speaking of Chef Cooper, he has something BIG coming in 2027! Again, Speaking of Chef Cooper, he was out fifth interview EVER. He broke a little news on our show back then. Stephen “Fiery Redd” Curgan is a 3-Time League of Fire World Champion... He eats peppers that a VERY high percentage of us wouldn’t touch. How did he get into it? It all started online- he’ll explain. Also, how do you make your way to being a World Champion in it in only 2 years? It’s an interesting path for sure! Finally, this Saturday is the first-ever Ozark Flame & Flavor Festival in Bentonville at the Record, and you’ll hear all about in this episode \of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast!