TomCast

Deeper than recovery, this conversation explores personal responsibility, self-forgiveness, and what it really takes to rebuild your life from nothing. In this episode of TomCast, Bryan Donoho shares an unfiltered story of struggle, identity, and transformation. From a childhood marked by instability and insecurity to years of addiction and two prison sentences, Bryan opens up about the mindset that kept him stuck and the moment everything changed. Today, Bryan works in recovery and mental health, helping others find a path forward. His journey proves that no matter how far someone falls, there is still a way back. If you have ever felt lost, stuck, or like life is working against you, this episode will hit home. 🎙 Hosted by Tom Wilkins 📍 Filmed in Hot Springs, Arkansas Show Notes Bryan Donoho is a recovery advocate, mental health professional, and speaker helping individuals rebuild their lives after addiction and incarcerationHost of The Dirtbag Chronicles / @thedirtbagchroniclespodcast a podcast focused on real stories of recovery, redemption, and personal growthCurrent Business Development Representative for Haven Health Management and Recovery. Works in substance use and mental health treatment, connecting individuals to life-changing resourcesPassionate about helping others find purpose, identity, and long-term recovery Topics Covered: Addiction and the search for identityLife before and after prisonThe mindset shift that changed everythingSelf-forgiveness and accountabilityRecovery, purpose, and helping others Keywords for Search: addiction recovery story, prison transformation story, mental health podcast, overcoming addiction, life after prison, personal growth story, recovery journey, TomCast podcast, Hot Springs Arkansas podcast

In this episode of TomCast, Tom sits down with Lindsey Woods: speech-language pathologist, small business owner, and Mrs. Arkansas competitor, for a wide-open conversation about growing up in Redfield, AR, moving to Alaska at 22, surviving SA, hitting a mental breaking point in 2018, and rebuilding her life through therapy, community, and journaling. Lindsey's platform, "The Right to Write," makes the case that writing is one of the most underused tools in mental health recovery. Raw, real, and surprisingly funny. Topics covered: • Growing up in small-town Arkansas and choosing Alaska over Las Vegas • Teaching in Alaska and deciding to pivot to speech therapy • The Alaska Permanent Fund dividend (yes, the state pays you to live there) • Marriage, motherhood, and moving back home • Surviving SA and carrying trauma silently • The 2018 mental breakdown and ideation moment at the river • Five years of therapy and ego death (Richard Rohr's "two halves of life") • Loneliness as a physiological cue, not just an emotion (researcher John Cacioppo) • Brené Brown's work on vulnerability and authentic connection • "The Right to Write" Woods' platform on journaling as a mental health tool • Tom gets personal about his own years of loneliness and difficulties • Why the frontal lobe (and brain development to age 25) matters for parenting • Competing for Mrs. Arkansas and what the platform means Resources mentioned: • Richard Rohr / The Living School — Center for Action and Contemplation • Brené Brown — "The Gifts of Imperfection" / Atlas of the Heart • John Cacioppo — loneliness research • Jordan Peterson — Self Authoring Suite If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988). Like, share, comment and subscribe! It costs you nothing and supports us substantially!

TomCast is back with a fun one.In this episode, Tom Wilkins sits down with Stephanie Morgan for a conversation that quickly turns into one of the most entertaining TomCast episodes yet.From playful banter and unexpected moments to real estate stories, community development and Mountain Pine discussions, this episode covers it all.... Including a very special announcement from Tom Wilkins, soon to be campaigning for (R) Justice of the Peace District 2 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Stephanie shares what it’s really like working in real estate, the challenges and opportunities facing local communities, and a few wild stories along the way. Special thanks to this episode’s sponsor:Stephanie Morgan, RealtorPartners Realtywww.partnerwithpartners.comIf you enjoy real conversations, local insight, and a little chaos along the way, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe.

Pastor Doug Jones joins Tom Wilkins on TomCast for a powerful, honest conversation about faith, failure, redemption, and why he’s running for the Hot Springs School Board. From being sent across the country on a Greyhound bus with $100 in his pocket… to a life transformed by faith… to advocating for vocational training and real opportunity for students who won’t go to college… This episode dives deep into: Doug’s raw personal testimony The role mentors play in shaping lives Why vocational education matters now more than ever The Ten Commandments debate in public schools Poverty, purpose, and practical solutions for Hot Springs students Whether you care about education, faith, community leadership, or the future of our kids, this is a conversation worth hearing.

Jama Lopez is running for Hot Springs Village Property Owners Association Board of Directors. With 25+ years as a CPA and unique experience as both POA Controller and Board Treasurer, she brings unmatched financial expertise and a commitment to transparency.

Melinda West isn't just running for Garland County Coroner. From her days as a paramedic to investigating deaths alongside law enforcement, Melinda's spent years saving lives and serving families. She recently sat down with Tom Wilkins to share the untold stories of what coroners actually do, and why this office matters more than you think.🗳️ ELECTION INFO: Early Voting: February 17, 2026 Primary Election: March 3, 2026 Learn more about Melinda's campaign: [https://www.facebook.com/p/Melinda-West-for-Garland-County-Coroner] --- ABOUT MELINDA WEST: - Deputy Coroner for 7 years, Chief Deputy Coroner for 6 months - Former Paramedic & EMT (15+ years emergency medicine) - Certified law enforcement firearms training - Teaches death investigation to first responders - Working toward national accreditation for the coroner's office

🎙 How VXV Events Is Transforming Spa-Con — Vendor Pricing, Admissions, VIP Passes, & Big Changes Coming This Year In this powerful episode, we sit down with Joey Mills of VXV Events to break down the real story behind Spa-Con’s new direction — and how VXV stepped in at a crucial moment to stabilize, rebuild, and re-energize one of the South’s most beloved pop-culture conventions. Spa-Con had reached a crossroads. Momentum felt uncertain. The event needed new structure, modern systems, and fresh creative leadership. That’s when VXV Events stepped up — bringing industry-level event planning, fan-focused programming, powerful media strategy, and serious organizational muscle to push Spa-Con into its next era. This episode goes way beyond the highlight reel. We dig into the behind-the-scenes reality of what it takes to run a major fan convention — the strategy, the risk, the logistics, the passion, and the massive amount of work nobody ever sees. 🔥 We also talk real numbers and real decisions — including: • Vendor pricing: what’s changing, why it matters, and how VXV plans to deliver more value for creators, artists, and exhibitors • Admissions pricing: how ticket structures are evolving to make attendance accessible and sustainable • VIP passes: what fans get, how VIP benefits are being enhanced, and why VIP experiences are becoming a bigger focus • Guest + fan experience upgrades: flow, programming, organization, communication, and onsite logistics • What to expect at Spa-Con this year: trends, energy, community impact, and major shifts in how the convention is operated Joey also shares insider insight into event rescue + revival, including how VXV rebuilt trust with vendors, stabilized planning systems, and created long-term sustainability for the convention. This episode is packed with high-value conversation for: ✨ Pop-culture & comic-con fans ✨ Vendors, artists, & exhibitors ✨ Cosplayers & creators ✨ Event planners & marketing pros ✨ Anyone who loves seeing a community-driven event come back stronger If you love comeback stories, event-industry strategy, creative culture, and big-vision leadership, this conversation is MUST-LISTEN. Spa-Con is stepping into a bold new chapter — and this episode gives you the first real look inside the transformation.

Cathy Caver's life story reads like a movie script! From a tiny California town with 13 kids in her class to building multiple successful businesses in Hot Springs, Arkansas - this conversation covers it ALL. 🎭 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: - How she went from magic show assistant to spa owner - Surviving not one, but TWO major recessions as a business owner - The truth about opening a wine bar in downtown Hot Springs - Why she married at 16 and what happened next - Behind-the-scenes magic show disasters (wardrobe malfunctions included!) - Her $100K leap from corporate security to entrepreneurship 🏢 CATHY'S BUSINESSES: Chrysalis Day Spa - 4332 Central Ave (21 years in business!) Splash Wine Bar - 325 Ouachita Ave (Wine, cocktails & events) 📍 Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas 💬 Have you ever taken a major financial risk to follow your dream? Tell us in the comments! 👍 LIKE this video if you love Hot Springs entrepreneurship stories 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring local business interviews 📱 SHARE with someone who needs to hear this story #HotSpringsArkansas #Entrepreneur #SmallBusiness #WomenInBusiness #TomCast #BusinessPodcast #ArkansasBusiness #StartupStory #MagicShow #WineBar #DaySpa

THIS, THAT & THE THIRD Featuring Chris Smith | “More Than Just a Free Car — A Way to Turn Your Life Around Entirely” In this powerful episode of This, That & The Third, we sit down with Chris Smith, founder of the Show Them Through Me movement — a mission changing lives across Hot Springs and beyond. Chris breaks down the truth: This isn’t just a program that gives away cars. It’s a faith-driven, deeply personal journey that helps people rebuild their confidence, stability, and purpose from the ground up. From the nomination process, to life-skills training, to real stories of transformation, Chris explains how a single act of compassion can completely redirect someone’s future — and how helping others can change your life too. If you’ve been searching for an interview that’s real, emotional, and uplifting, this one will stay with you. 🔥 In This Episode You’ll Learn: How Show Them Through Me actually works behind the scenes Why cars are just the beginning — not the end Real success stories from families who turned their lives around Chris Smith’s faith, calling & personal mission The 10-week discipleship and life-skills system Goals for the next year: 60+ cars, classrooms & more How YOU can get involved, nominate someone, or help the mission grow 📍 Nominate Someone Pick up an application at Western Auto in Hot Springs. Submit nominations through a church or nonprofit — no walk-ins accepted. 🌐 Learn More / Donate / Support Visit: https://showthemthroughme.com 💬 Call to Action Comment below: “I BELIEVE IN THIS MISSION” if this interview moved you. Your engagement helps this nonprofit reach more families in need.

Tom Wilkins sits down with long-time friend, musician, real estate broker, and community leader Shari Bales — a Hot Springs native with a life story full of grit, redemption, and purpose. Born right here in Hot Springs and raised in a lively family of nine siblings, Shari’s journey starts with one of the most remarkable backstories ever shared on the show: her father learning to paint inside Folsom Prison during the era of Johnny Cash’s legendary performance. From sneaking out as a teenager to landing her first real performance job at the famous Five Star Dinner Theatre, to becoming a touring musician across multiple states, Shari built a life around music, faith, and community. Today, she is running for Garland County Assessor, advocating for transparency, compassion, and helping homeowners understand the tax credits and benefits they’re entitled to — something she sees lacking daily in her real estate career. In this episode, Shari shares: ✅ Her Hot Springs childhood and massive family ✅ Her father’s unbelievable redemption story from Folsom Prison ✅ How music changed her life starting at age 16 ✅ Touring, performing, and recording in Nashville ✅ Her connection with the Huckabee family ✅ The major problems inside the current Assessor’s Office ✅ Why she believes compassion should drive public service ✅ Her mission to help seniors, veterans, and homeowners save money If you love Hot Springs stories, local leadership, music, or simply an inspiring life journey, this episode is one you won’t forget. 🔥 Make sure to like, share, and subscribe for more Arkansas stories on TomCast.

In this emotional and unforgettable episode, Tercero Muñoz of Suite P Productions joins Cory Fisher from The Crashcast Podcast to honor the life of Dustin Montgomery — a beloved friend, musician, and creative spirit whose story continues to inspire countless others. Dustin’s legacy lives on through the powerful My Hands to War album “Ursal Kingdom,” written in his memory — a hauntingly beautiful collection that channels grief, love, and the struggle for healing through art. Together, Tercero and Cory open up about mental health, suicide awareness, and how music and storytelling can help us process loss and spark change. This conversation dives deep into depression, hope, faith, friendship, and the importance of speaking up when someone is struggling. It’s raw, real, and deeply human — a tribute not only to Dustin’s memory but to everyone who’s ever fought a silent battle. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. You are not alone. 📞 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — free, confidential help 24/7.

Karen Boyd isn’t your average guest.A healthcare administrator who spent years listening to Alzheimer’s patients share their regrets, Karen decided to change the script—for herself and everyone like her.What started as a small group of girlfriends in Hot Springs turned into The Bucket List Bunnies — a movement of women reclaiming joy, chasing adventure, and living out the dreams they thought they’d missed.In this unfiltered TomCast episode, Karen and host Tom Wilkins talk about: • The moment that inspired the Bucket List Bunnies at Oaklawn Racetrack • Meeting ex-Playboy bunnies and realizing “fun” wasn’t just for men • Balancing humor, friendship, and real talk about purpose • What happens when women decide to live on their own terms⚡ Subscribe to Suite P Productions for raw, real Arkansas stories that make you laugh, think, and feel alive.🎙️ Hosted by Tom Wilkins 📍 Produced by Suite P Productions Multimedia, LLC#TomCast #BucketListBunnies #KarenBoyd #HotSpringsArkansas #RealStories #SuitePProductions #WomenOver50 #SouthernTalkShow #ArkansasCulture #InspirationWithAttitude

In this episode, Tercero Muñoz sits down with Friar James (aka Travis Gates) — the man behind the Hot Springs Renaissance Faire — to uncover what really happens when history, fantasy, and a whole lot of mead collide. You’ll hear about: How a small Arkansas event became a full-blown medieval spectacle ⚔️ The hidden chaos behind jousts, turkey legs, and chainmail armor 🏰 Why people risk it all to live “like it’s 1599” — even for one weekend a year The heart and humor that keep the Ren Faire community alive Whether you’ve been to a faire or think it’s just for “cosplay nerds,” this episode will surprise you — it’s part theater, part history, and pure human connection. 🎧 Listen now — and find out why bread, beer, and battles still bring people together centuries later.

Host Tom Wilkins sits down with Garland County Sheriff Mike McCormick, a lifelong law-enforcement leader running for re-election in 2026. Sheriff McCormick opens up about his servant’s heart, his belief in respect for everyone, (citizens and inmates alike), and the tough decisions required to keep Hot Springs and Garland County safe. From cutting overall crime by 34 percent to building one of Arkansas’s top-rated detention centers, Sheriff McCormick shares how accountability, training, and communication have shaped his leadership style. Hear him discuss: Why “the buck stops with the sheriff” How doubling patrol presence changed public safety What “tough but compassionate” means in real-world policing His vision for the future of Garland County law enforcement This isn’t politics—it’s perspective. Real talk about service, integrity, and what it takes to lead with honor and heart. 🔔 Subscribe to TomCast for more in-depth conversations with Arkansas leaders and community voices. #SheriffMikeMcCormick #TomCast #GarlandCounty #ArkansasElections #HotSprings #PublicSafety #Leadership #LawEnforcement #RespectAndService #SuitePProductions

In this TomCast episode, host Tom Wilkins sits down with Dr. Laura Hollenbach, a physician who perfectly represents the art of modern medicine. From running a wound care clinic that helps diabetics heal and regain mobility, to serving as a pediatric gynecologist teaching young women about their bodies through Girlology; Dr. Laura’s story is equal parts science, compassion, and heart. 🧠 What You’ll Learn: How one doctor balances two medical worlds: wound care & OB-GYN Why there’s still an art to healing even in today’s high-tech medicine The power of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and how it restores tissue Why education and prevention save more lives than treatment alone How programs like Girlology empower the next generation of young women 🎧 Watch this episode if you love: Real stories from real doctors • Inspiring medical careers • Local heroes from Arkansas • Conversations that mix humor, honesty, and hope 📍 Filmed at: Suite P Productions Multimedia – Hot Springs, AR 🎙️ Host: Tom Wilkins 🎥 Producers: Tercero Muñoz & Stephanie Highfill 🌐 www.SuitePProductions.com Advertise with us! 📧 [email protected]

Danny Harris is the Photo Video Specialist for the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office, where he covers events for senators, representatives, and civic initiatives. But his creative journey reaches far beyond politics. What began as carving a Harry Potter wand for his daughter turned into a passion for wood carving that would transform his life. Today, Danny is an award-winning artist whose fish carvings have been displayed in museums, celebrated at the World Fish Carving Championships, and even brought international collectors to tears. In this episode of TomCast with Tom Wilkins, Danny shares: His path from mechanic and photographer to his current role at the Secretary of State’s office 📸 Photographing political leaders and events, including Donald Trump and Mike Huckabee 🇺🇸 How one Harry Potter wand launched a world-class carving career 🎣 Winning awards at the World Fish Carving Championships 🏆 Connecting with collectors across the globe, from Sweden and Germany to Iceland 🌍 Why art is more than a hobby — it’s his legacy ✨ 👉 Watch now to see how one wand sparked a world-class career. 🔗 Check out Danny’s own channel for more carving magic: https://www.youtube.com/@Danny_Harris-Arts 📺 Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories on TomCast. 👇 Drop a comment: Would YOU have guessed it all started with Harry Potter? #HarryPotter #WoodCarving #TomCast #ArkansasArtist #DannyHarrisArts #ArtThatInspires #FishCarving #WoodworkingCommunity #ViralArt #HarryPotterWand #inspiringstories

Human trafficking isn’t just a far-off crime—it’s happening here in Arkansas, often in ways that will shock you. In this powerful TomCast episode, Tom Wilkins sits down with Candice Martin, Anti-Human Trafficking Specialist, to expose the realities that many don’t want to talk about. Candice reveals: Why trafficking often looks different than what Hollywood portrays. How familial trafficking—parents exploiting their own children—is far more common than people realize. The signs to look for in your community (massage parlors, strip clubs, runaways, even within “normal” homes). Why both women and men, especially young teens, are vulnerable to being targeted. How cycles of poverty, addiction, and generational trauma fuel this crisis. What resources, hotlines, and specialists are available in Arkansas to support survivors. This conversation is raw, eye-opening, and necessary. If you care about protecting children, families, and communities, this is a must-watch. 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment, and subscribe to help spread awareness. The more people who know what human trafficking really looks like, the more we can do to stop it.

What if everything you worked for — all the wins, all the trophies — didn’t actually matter? Coach Beau Brickell, two-time Coach of the Year, had the season every coach dreams of: 29 wins and a Final Four run. But the moment that changed his life wasn’t a championship… it was a hug from one of his players after a crushing loss. In this raw TomCast episode, Beau pulls no punches: ⚡️ Why rejection (30 ignored resumes) was his greatest blessing ⚡️ How faith redefined his idea of “winning” ⚡️ The single moment that mattered more than the scoreboard 👉 If you’ve ever been told “you’re not good enough” — this story will hit you. 🎧 Watch now. Feel the goosebumps. Then ask yourself: What’s YOUR real win?

Actress & author Nancy Carlton joins Tom Wilkins for one of the funniest and most light-hearted TomCast episodes yet. From growing up in Arkansas and running switchboards, to raising a very large newborn, three marriages, and unforgettable theatre mishaps, Nancy shares stories full of humor and heart. You’ll hear about her days working at Fort Roots, sorting laundry in a hospital, the chaos of live stage productions (including props that didn’t quite cooperate), and the creative surprises that keep life interesting. Nancy’s honesty and comedic timing make this a conversation you won’t want to miss. If you enjoy this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more TomCast interviews. Content advisory: Contains mild language, theatrical references to stage violence, and comedic discussion of adult themes. Suitable for most audiences.

In this episode of TomCast, host Tom Wilkins sits down with Jim Keary to explore his remarkable path through journalism, government, and now local politics. Jim shares stories from his early days as a newspaper editor, his time in Washington uncovering corruption, and his work in county communications. Now running for Garland County Tax Collector, Jim opens up about why he’s stepping back into public service, the challenges within the office, and his vision for better efficiency, transparency, and customer service. 👉 Topics covered in this episode: Jim’s background in journalism and investigative reporting. His career managing communications and government operations. Why he’s running for Garland County Tax Collector and the changes he hopes to bring. If you enjoy these conversations, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support the show!

In this episode of TomCast, host Tom Wilkins sits down with Amber Henson, one of Hot Springs’ top commercial realtors, cancer survivor, and founder of My Tata Testimony. Amber shares her incredible journey: How one real estate deal shifted her career from residential to revitalizing downtown Hot Springs.Her deeply personal fight with breast cancer, discovering a rare genetic condition, and undergoing life-saving surgeries — all while refusing to give up.The mission behind her nonprofit, raising awareness and funding for genetic testing and cancer support. This conversation is full of resilience, community, and hope — perfect for anyone chasing purpose, fighting through challenges, or passionate about small-town revival. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories on TomCast! 🔗 Connect with Amber Henson & My Tata Testimony: Website: https://mytatatestimony.com #hotspringsarkansas #podcast #tata #testimony

Republican Party committee chair, Gaylon Boshears, talks party progress in Garland County. Watch for more details on upcoming party events and learn more about how you can get involved.

Whether you’re into politics, entrepreneurship, or comeback stories, this episode dives deep into ambition, resilience, and what it takes to stand tall under pressure. What happens when a 16-year-old 4.0 student drops out of high school, becomes emancipated, and jumps straight into real estate? Meet Dayton Meyers, a rising political voice in Arkansas, who shares his unfiltered journey — from bold career moves to public controversies, and why he’s determined to make his mark. In this episode of TomCast with Tom Wilkins, Dayton opens up about: - Dropping out of high school at 16 to start a career in real estate - His underage casino controversy, resignation, and re-election - Honoring #charliekirk with a lasting legacy in Garland County politics Watch the full conversation and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring interviews on TomCast!

What does justice really mean in America today? Is it simply punishment—or is there a smarter way forward? In this powerful episode of TomCast, attorney Q. Byrum Hurst Jr. shares stories from the courtroom and beyond, exploring the cracks in our system and what it will take to fix them. From wrongful charges in Florida, to shocking headlines like the New York subway stabbing, to his belief that education is the greatest deterrent to crime—this conversation pulls no punches. 🎙️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode: A Florida case that left a man jailed for five years without a conviction Why the revolving door of incarceration isn’t solving crime The subway stabbing that reveals deeper failures in the system Q. Byrum Hurst’s vision for prevention, education, and smarter justice Honest reflections on safety, punishment, and humanity in the legal process If you’ve ever wondered how justice really works—and how it could work better—you’ll want to hear this one.

In this episode: Politics and Pokémon, Tercero Muñoz interviews Dustin Schreiner in a unique blend of civic talk and pop culture. From comparing political showdowns to gym battles, to exploring what leaders can learn from legendary trainers, their conversation is both insightful and entertaining.

Bob Driggers gives us a brief course on economic development, then takes us deeper into strengths and challenges of economic development in Hot Springs, Arkansas... plus, Tom and Bob discuss touring the abandoned Army Navy Hospital downtown, possible plans to renovate, etc.

Pastor Pulls is a Pentecostal Pastor in Hot Springs, AR with a proclivity for Pokemon.

We speak with Lynn Morgan the choir director for HSJA and the Hot springs World Class high school about his vision for his choir, their dreams and Crowning the dead.

We speak with United States Congressman Bruce Westerman about Artificial Intelligence, his Football and forestry background and the future of the 4th district of Arakansas.

We speak with Margaret Yoshida(90) about life inside The Gila River Internment camp during World War 2, Her education within the camp and her journey to Jesus Christ through the adversity of it all.

"Monster" Michael Todd and his lovely wife talk with us about how they met, how he proposed, their spiritual journey, men's mental health and a controversial new treatment.

Stacey Castlebury provides us with his unique and um...interesting take on the word of God.

📄 Episode Notes:In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Jack, the very first oncologist to practice in the state of Arkansas. From humble beginnings to pioneering cancer treatment in a state that had never seen a dedicated cancer specialist, Dr. [Name] shares the groundbreaking challenges, the emotional victories, and the personal stories that shaped their journey.