SO NWA

Episode 31- In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Ana Xavier, a podcast strategist and producer with over a decade of experience helping entrepreneurs launch and grow impactful podcasts.From starting her first show in 2008 to working across Portugal, London, and the U.S., Ana shares what actually works when it comes to podcasting—and what most people get wrong.We talk about:-Why most podcasts never grow-How to use a podcast as a business tool (not just content)-The mindset shifts that separate successful creators-How to stay consistent without burning out-Turning listeners into real relationships and opportunitiesAna also breaks down how podcasting can be used as a tool for building trust, growing your network, and creating real opportunities.Whether you're thinking about starting a podcast or already have one, this episode is packed with practical insight and honest perspective.https://www.thepodcastspace.com/https://www.instagram.com/thepodcastspace/?hl=en

Episode 30-In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Yair Benitez — a young entrepreneur making serious moves here in Northwest Arkansas.From starting out cutting hair in a garage to owning multiple barbershops and building a name in real estate, YB shares what it really takes to grow something from the ground up.We talk about:• The power of consistency (and what it actually looks like)• Taking risks when nothing is guaranteed• Balancing multiple businesses at a young age• Why responding fast can change everything in real estate• Staying grounded, giving back, and building real relationshipsThis episode is for anyone trying to level up, stay focused, and build something meaningful — especially right here in NWA.If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next move… this one’s for you.🎧 Follow & connect with YB:Instagram: @ybtherealtor📍 Based in Northwest Arkansashttps://www.facebook.com/CultureCutsRogersAR/https://www.instagram.com/ecstasybarberstudio_/

Episode 29- Thor O’Connor, owner of Thor’s Barbershop in Pea Ridge, shares his journey from college burnout to building a thriving barbershop in Northwest Arkansas.In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to start from scratch, the challenges of stepping out on your own, and how Thor turned a tough situation into an opportunity to build something authentic. From cutting hair in his garage to owning a 5-star shop, his story is all about resilience, community, and betting on yourself.We also talk about the growth of NWA, entrepreneurship, and why creating a unique experience keeps clients coming back.If you're into business, self-growth, or local stories that hit home, this one’s for you.https://www.thorsbarbershop.com/

Episode 28-In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Deysi Chicas, an executive closing agent with over 20 years of experience at Waco Title. If you’ve bought or sold a home in Northwest Arkansas, there’s a good chance you’ve been across the closing table from her.Deysi shares her journey from moving to the U.S. in 1994 to building a long, successful career in the title industry. We dive into what really happens behind the scenes during a real estate closing, how technology is changing the process (including remote and international closings), and why trust and relationships are everything in this business.Beyond real estate, Deysi opens up about her personal growth, stepping away from management to refocus on what she loves most, and the importance of family, community, and staying grounded. Plus, we get into some fun rapid-fire questions covering her favorite local spots, weekend activities, and dream job on a beach somewhere.If you’re curious about real estate, love local stories, or just want to hear from someone who’s helped shape the NWA community behind the scenes, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.We’re local real estate agents here in Northwest Arkansas—if you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing, we’d love to connect. Reach out to us on Instagram email us at [email protected]://www.instagram.com/sonwapodcast/

Episode 27 - In this episode of So NWA Podcast, hosts Enrique and Juan Carlos switch things up and get a little more personal.They recap recent real estate wins, including closing deals and the strategies behind getting homes under contract quickly. From there, the conversation shifts into a fun “favorites” episode where the hosts share stories about childhood memories, comfort foods, favorite music, weekend routines, and life lessons.You’ll hear everything from growing up in Florida and California, to favorite restaurants, music artists, and the simple things they love about living in Northwest Arkansas.This episode is a laid-back conversation that gives listeners a deeper look at the people behind the podcast and their journey as local real estate agents serving the community.If you’re new to the show or have been listening for a while, this episode is a great way to get to know the hosts a little better.

Episode 26- In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Cody and Mike Duley of Keller Williams for an honest conversation about leadership, growth, and building something that lasts.We dive into their journey in real estate, how they’ve built and scaled a successful team, and what it really takes to create long-term impact in Northwest Arkansas. From lessons learned along the way to the mindset required to lead at a high level, this episode is packed with practical insight and real perspective.We also talk about legacy, mentorship, and the responsibility that comes with serving clients and developing people. Whether you’re in real estate, running a business, or just looking to grow personally, there’s something here for you.If you’re part of the NWA community or interested in what’s shaping our local market, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Episode 25. In this episode of SO NWA, Juan Carlos and Enrique sit down with Joseph Nguyen, the local food influencer behind Hangry Peddler. Joseph shares his journey into content creation, his connection to Northwest Arkansas, and how becoming a father shifted his priorities, mindset, and approach to social media.The conversation covers food, cycling, community, balance, and staying humble while building something meaningful. Recorded live at Iron Horse Coffee in Rogers, this episode feels like a real, unscripted conversation about life, growth, and supporting local.

Episode 24. In this episode of SO NWA, Juan Carlos and Enrique kick off Season 2 with a host recap and an honest, unscripted conversation.They reflect on Season 1, what they learned, and how the podcast has grown through the stories, guests, and community connections along the way. From there, they share personal life updates, including becoming a new dad, home renovations, and stepping into a new season both personally and professionally.The conversation also touches on mindset, financial perspective, and how everyday decisions can impact long-term goals. This episode sets the tone for Season 2 and what’s ahead as SO NWA continues to serve and highlight Northwest Arkansas.

Season 2 is officially here.In this short intro episode, We are check in with the SO NWA community, little reflection on last season, and talk through what’s new for 2026. This episode we recorded while testing out a new video podcast setup, and we liked the conversation enough to share it.Think of this as a quick hello, a fresh start, and a preview of what’s coming next.Our first full-length audio episode of the season drops next week.

Episode 23- In this episode, Enrique and Jc sit down with Natalie Tibbs, Executive Director of the Children & Family Advocacy Center of Benton County. Natalie’s parents founded Restoration Village in 1989, and today she continues the mission of providing safety, healing, and long-term support for women and children in crisis.Natalie opens up about growing up inside a women’s shelter, the reality of child abuse in Northwest Arkansas, and how her team walks families through their hardest moments with dignity and care.You’ll also hear stories about community partnerships, the impact of faith and family, and the everyday work happening behind the scenes to support our neighbors.If you’ve ever wondered how you can get involved, this episode is a powerful look at the heart, resilience, and collaboration that makes NWA what it is.https://cfacbentonco.com/

Episode 22- In this episode of SO NWA, Enrique and Juan Carlos, we sit down with Keegan Staton, Planning Director for the City of Pea Ridge. We talk about what city planning really means, how it shapes daily life in Northwest Arkansas, and the balance between small-town charm and regional growth. Keegan shares his path from Bentonville to Pea Ridge, explains how residents can actually influence their city’s future, and even reveals a few hidden gems around NWA.If you’ve ever wondered why roads get built where they do or how towns grow without losing their character, this episode breaks it all down.

Episode 21 - Part 2 - In this heartfelt episode of SO NWA, hosts Juan Carlos and Enrique sit down at the kitchen table of Joe and Suzanne Spivey — two longtime Rogers residents whose family roots in Northwest Arkansas stretch back nearly a century. Joe, a Senior VP at Bank OZK, and Suzanne, a former teacher and Rogers Public School Board member, share stories of heritage, faith, education, and the enduring “Ozark values” that shape their family and community.From their family’s Dust Bowl migration story to lessons from the Razorbacks, and from raising children to serving others, this conversation captures what makes Northwest Arkansas feel like home.Whether you’re a local, newcomer, or simply love stories about community and character — this one will make you proud to call the Ozarks home.

Episode 21- Part 1 - In this heartfelt episode of SO NWA, hosts Juan Carlos and Enrique sit down at the kitchen table of Joe and Suzanne Spivey — two longtime Rogers residents whose family roots in Northwest Arkansas stretch back nearly a century. Joe, a Senior VP at Bank OZK, and Suzanne, a former teacher and Rogers Public School Board member, share stories of heritage, faith, education, and the enduring “Ozark values” that shape their family and community.From their family’s Dust Bowl migration story to lessons from the Razorbacks, and from raising children to serving others, this conversation captures what makes Northwest Arkansas feel like home.Whether you’re a local, newcomer, or simply love stories about community and character — this one will make you proud to call the Ozarks home.

Episode 20- In this episode of SO NWA, Enrique and Juan Carlos sit down with longtime friend and community leader Christian Saavedra — a Rogers native by way of El Salvador — to talk about his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected educator and head soccer coach at Rogers Heritage High.Christian shares how mentorship, discipline, and honest leadership shaped his life, from learning English as a teen to leading his team to a state championship. He opens up about his coaching philosophy built around honesty, teamwork, and “closing the gap” for young men — preparing them not only for the field, but for life.The conversation also explores the importance of faith, community, the growth of Northwest Arkansas, and the hidden gems (and tacos) that make the region special.Whether you love soccer, education, or stories of resilience and growth, this is one episode that will leave you motivated to “show up” for your dreams and your community.

Episode 19- In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Rogers Mayor Greg Hines as he reflects on more than a decade of leadership and community growth. From navigating downtown revitalization to leading recovery efforts after the 2024 tornado, Mayor Hines shares his insights on responsibility, resilience, and what it truly means to serve. He opens up about his family’s deep roots in Northwest Arkansas, his unexpected path into city government, and the lessons learned from balancing leadership with everyday life. Whether you’re curious about Rogers’ growth, local traditions, or the challenges of public service, this conversation offers a candid and inspiring look at the man behind the office.

Episode 18- In this episode of SO NWA, Juan Carlos and Enrique sit down with Mariah Newman, an inspiring leader whose journey has taken her from humble beginnings in Kansas, to teaching and community transformation, to serving in high-impact leadership roles at Walmart, and now to launching her own venture—The Soulfire Collective. Mariah shares how courage, connection, and service have guided her path, from helping underprivileged students unlock their potential, to leading large-scale organizational change, to stepping out in faith to build something of her own. This conversation is full of powerful lessons on leadership, resilience, and finding what truly sets your soul on fire.https://thesoulfire.com/

Episode 17- In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with father-daughter duo Drew Perry and Lauren Tedford, the team behind SnapHouss Real Estate Photography in Northwest Arkansas. Though they launched their business just a year and a half ago, their passion, hard work, and community connections have already made them a trusted name among realtors across the region.With the help of Drews Wife and son, SnapHouss truly is a family business. Drew and Lauren share how working together has strengthened their bond, what it’s like to help showcase the beauty of NWA homes, and how they’re building a legacy rooted in relationships and service. We also dive into their journey from San Antonio, Texas to Northwest Arkansas more than 25 years ago, their favorite local spots, and why they love calling NWA home.

Episode 16- This week on SO NWA, we sit down with Chris Sparks — president of the Benton County Police Athletic League and Walmart’s Global Special Investigations pro. Chris shares his journey from becoming a dad at 19, to graduating from the FBI National Academy for leadership training, to building the first PAL program in Northwest Arkansas.We talk about how sports and mentorship can change the path for at-risk youth, what fatherhood has taught him about leadership, and why community service still drives everything he does. It’s an inspiring conversation filled with life lessons, laughs, and a powerful reminder that one person can make a lasting impact.

Episode 15- This week on SO NWA, we sit down with Christina Meister, principal of Grace Hill Elementary, whose journey from classroom teacher to school leader is rooted in a deep commitment to her students and community. Christina opens up about discovering Northwest Arkansas, the “why” that keeps her going, and the vision she has for every child at Grace Hill—one with no ceilings and no barriers. We talk about the school events that bring the community together, her life outside of work (including her husband’s role as a local attorney), and her personal picks for NWA’s best trails and restaurants. It’s an inspiring look at leadership, education, and what it means to belong.

14. On this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Kevin Bennoch — Peace Corps alum, former teacher, and the founder of Bentonville’s beloved Pedaler’s Pub. Kevin shares how years spent living in Fayetteville shaped his love for Northwest Arkansas, but it was Bentonville where he planted roots and built something lasting.We talk about his journey from teaching to entrepreneurship, his vision for creating a community-centered pub, and the big move to Pedaler’s Pub’s brand-new location — just across the street from the original. Kevin also shares the story behind the Pedaler’s Bash, the annual bike ride that brings riders together from all over.From mission work abroad to becoming a local staple in Bentonville — this is Kevin's ride, and you’re invited along.https://www.pedalerspub.com/

Episode 13-In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Phil and Nicole Shepard — a dynamic duo in Northwest Arkansas who are making waves in both real estate and tech.Phil shares the story of his move from Chicago and how that led to the creation of All Things NWA, a platform built to connect and highlight the local community. Together, Phil and Nicole dive into their journey of launching Client Keeper CRM, a tool designed to help agents and businesses stay connected with their people.We talk real estate, relationships, and how they’ve learned to navigate life and business as a married couple in the same fast-paced industry. Their passion for helping others and building strong, meaningful connections is at the core of everything they do.

Episode 12- We sit down with Francisco Diaz and Maricruz Gonzalez for a laid-back and insightful conversation about all things real estate. Whether you're a first-time buyer or just curious about the market, we share practical tips every buyer should know, plus the best advice we've received in both business and life. We also dive into how and why we each got started in real estate and share some of our favorite local spots around Northwest Arkansas. It’s real talk, real estate, and real community.

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick Pulliam, founder of The Patio community in Northwest Arkansas. Patrick shares his journey growing up in NWA, moving to Texas with his family, and ultimately making the decision to return on his own after high school to reconnect with his roots. Now a real estate executive broker with Harris Heights Realty, Patrick opens up about fatherhood, local favorites (including some go-to restaurants), and the latest developments with The Patio — a growing community initiative that’s making a positive impact across the region. It's a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about returning home, creating space for others, and leading with purpose.

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Smith, assistant football coach and teacher at Elmwood Middle School. Jeff shares his journey of moving from Batesville, Arkansas to Northwest Arkansas in the mid-2000s with his wife, unsure of what the future would hold. He opens up about how the opportunities in NWA helped him explore different career paths, ultimately leading him into education.Jeff talks about his passion for serving the community—both in the classroom and on the field—and how that sense of purpose has guided his career. We also discuss his current pursuit of a master’s degree, which could one day lead to a role in school administration. Along the way, Jeff shares his love for the outdoors in Arkansas and some of his favorite local coffee spots.This is a conversation about growth, community, and the unexpected turns that lead us exactly where we’re meant to be.

In this powerful episode, JC sits down with longtime friend Fermin Sandoval—a proud Northwest Arkansas native and active-duty U.S. Marine. Growing up without much guidance, Fermin found direction the day a Marine recruiter visited his high school. That moment set him on a path that would take him across the globe, from serving with the prestigious HMX-1 unit at the White House to living in Japan, and eventually returning home to recruit the next generation of Marines right here in NWA.Now based in San Diego, Fermin reflects on his incredible journey, the discipline that shaped him, and what it means to come from a place like Northwest Arkansas. More than just a Marine, Fermin is a storyteller, a world traveler, and—above all—a lifelong friend of JC’s since the middle school. Don’t miss this inspiring story of grit, growth, and hometown pride.

Episode 8 - In this episode, we sit down with John Rex Spivey, a proud Northwest Arkansas native with a fascinating story. From serving as a Navy helicopter pilot to working on Capitol Hill, he also held roles as the first Director of the Naval Junior Officer Council and as an International Relations Officer for the Chief of Naval Personnel. John’s journey is one of service and dedication. We dive into his family’s deep-rooted history in the Ozarks, where they've called home for over 100 years, and discuss his time spent growing up with his grandpa. John also shares insights into Ozark valves and how his upbringing has shaped his perspective on life and legacy. Join us for a conversation about family, heritage, and the high-flying adventures that have defined John’s path.

Episode 7-This week on SO NWA, We're hanging out with Laura Ruoff — A self-defense and firearms instructor, and the founder of Hips n Clips. Just a few years ago, Laura had no idea she'd be diving deep into the world of personal protection and training. After moving all over the country, she and her family finally found their home in Bentonville, Arkansas — and they’ve been loving it ever since. Now, through Hips n Clips, Laura’s on a mission to help the community, especially women, feel stronger, safer, and more confident. We talk about her journey, what sparked her passion, and how she’s building something special right here in NWA.

Episode 6 - In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Martin Resendiz, a dedicated middle school principal who recently became a father. He shares his passion for working with kids, how their energy and resilience inspired him to step into leadership, and how life’s challenges shaped him into the person he is today. From overcoming dark times to embracing the power of perseverance, Martin’s story is one of hope, dedication, and never giving up. A heartfelt and inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss!

Episode 5 - In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Johnny Templeton from Schuber Mitchell Homes to hear his incredible journey from ministry to the homebuilding industry. Johnny shares the story of how he and his family moved to Northwest Arkansas, the transition from being a pastor to working at Schuber Mitchell, and how his passion for people drives his leadership. We dive into how he pours love and support into his employees and staff, fostering a culture of care and growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about faith, career changes, and making a lasting impact in the workplace.

Episode 4 - In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Yesenia Sanabria , a passionate local mortgage lender who grew up in Rogers, Arkansas. She shares her journey of moving around, the experiences that shaped her, and how being a mom fuels her motivation to empower her kids & others. From helping families achieve homeownership to balancing motherhood with ambition, her story is all about resilience, dedication, and making a difference in Northwest Arkansas. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on community, real estate, and the drive to help people succeed!

Episode 3 - In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Nathan See, the Mayor of Pea Ridge, for an insightful conversation on leadership, daily responsibilities, and exciting updates for the city. We cover it all, from his perspective on community growth to the challenges and rewards of public service.At the end, Nathan answers the question from our previous guest, Kenny Williams from Pedal It Forward: "What is the most lost you have ever been?" His story involves a wrong turn, a GPS that gave up, and a realization that even a mayor isn’t immune to getting completely turned around. Tune in for a great discussion—and a laugh at Nathan’s misadventure!"Hit the **Follow** button to get the latest **SO NWA** episodes as soon as they drop!"

Episode 2- In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Kenny Williams from Pedal It Forward, a nonprofit dedicated to providing bikes to those in need and making cycling more accessible in Northwest Arkansas. Kenny shares the impact of their mission, the joy of giving back through bikes, and his unique perspective on what makes NWA special. We also highlight some local favorites, including Bentonville Brewing and Mai Chinese Food Trailer in Bella Vista. Tune in for a great conversation about community, cycling, and the heart of NWA!Pedal It Forward Websitehttps://www.pedalitforward.org/Whistling Springs Brewing Co.https://www.facebook.com/WhistlingSpringsBrewing/Mai Chinese Food Trailer https://www.facebook.com/Maichinese05#Bentonville Brewing Companyhttps://bentonvillebrewing.com/

Episode 1 - Welcome to SO NWA is an introduction to your hosts as they share their backgrounds, interests , and what inspired them to launch the podcast. Get to know their connection to Northwest Arkansas, their love for the local community, and what you can expect from future episodes. It’s a personal and welcoming start to the journey of celebrating the people, stories, and beauty of NWA.