What if it all works out? Start Small, Dream Big in 2026!

About the Show:"It doesn't demand a new goal or resolution. It just invites you to think a little differently, to breathe a little deeper, and maybe even to imagine that, yeah, what if it all works out?"       – Randy WilburnIn this special solo episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn closes out 2025 by looking back at the wisdom and advice he's gathered from this year's guests—both national voices and local leaders. From finding balance to embracing change, Randy shares the lessons that stuck with him most, and he's not here to push big, grand resolutions. Instead, he reminds us that starting small can mean everything, and sometimes the little things really do matter most.You'll hear memorable advice like "move the horizon closer" alongside local gems about living authentically and taking chances. Randy pulls from powerful moments in past episodes and his own experiences to give you something to think about as you head into 2026. Whether you're considering a new challenge, stepping into a second act, or simply want to appreciate those quiet walks with your dog, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:Be Present: Put your phone down more often and savor the moment.Start Small: Focus on making one change at a time—big things happen step by step.Nothing Changes if Nothing Changes: Intentions are good, but actions create lasting results.Authenticity Wins: Be your true self and let people see your real story, struggles and all.Embrace Failure and Risk: Don’t be afraid to start again or make mistakes, especially if you’re chasing your calling or beginning a new chapter.Reset When Needed: Every step, even the failures, builds on your foundation for growth.Celebrate Small Victories: Smile, take walks, and enjoy the simple wins.Don’t Rush: Let yourself grow and take your time with change—it doesn’t all have to be hard.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Email Us Your One Piece of Advice from 2025.New York Times Article by Melissa Kirsch (“Best Advice from Readers in 2025”) – referenced by Randy WilburnEpisode 330: Second Acts and TEDx Fayetteville ReflectionsEpisode 333: Authenticity with Randy Pulayya (WIPS West Indies Peppa Sauce)Episode 326: Community and Risk with Lynn Wong and Mike Thompson (Pedal Park & Pedal Pops)Go fail some! Episode 329 with Matt BuellEpisode 336: Reset and Resilience with Kristin Phillips (AFIC at MCO)Episode 334 Advice from Francisco Valencia (“Smile is the entrance fee to doing a lot of things and getting through doors”)FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis 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 [email protected] 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 LinkedInThank 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 2026Winetopia 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