Paragould Podcast

"Don't Let the Old Man In" - Bob Branch's View on Aging

ob Branch returns for his sixth appearance on the podcast, tying the record for most guest appearances. This time, the conversation centers on aging.

But not aging as defined by a calendar.

Bob challenges the way we think about getting older, suggesting that age is less about the number of years behind us and more about the state of mind within us. His refrain is simple but powerful: don’t let the old man in.

We talk about how culture has changed over the decades. There was a time when life moved slower. Now everything feels rushed, urgent, and accelerated. In the middle of that pace, Bob reflects on what it means to stay engaged, curious, and alive rather than drifting into passivity.

At the heart of the episode is a personal resolve: I owe it to myself to get back out there. This conversation is about resilience, perspective, and refusing to surrender vitality just because the years keep moving forward.

Whether you are 30 or 70, this episode will challenge the way you think about growing older.

From the Delta to DC: A Conversation with Congressman Rick Crawford

We are honored to sit down with U.S. Congressman Rick Crawford for a thoughtful conversation about his journey from Arkansas to Washington, D.C. In this episode, Congressman Crawford shares about his background in military service and broadcasting, what led him to run for Congress, and the responsibility of representing Arkansas’s First Congressional District.

We discuss the weight of serving a diverse region that stretches from North Central to Southeastern Arkansas, the issues he is most passionate about, and the importance of being well informed from all angles when making legislative decisions. This conversation offers insight into the realities of public service, leadership, and the challenges facing our state and nation.

Whether you are deeply engaged in politics or simply curious about how federal leadership impacts everyday Arkansans, this episode provides an inside look at the work happening from the Delta to DC.

Paragould to Prime Time! Chase Mann's Journey to Professional MMA

Chase Mann returns to the show fresh off a nationally televised fight in Thailand with ONE FC, available on Amazon Prime. In this unique episode, Chase shares the story of how his journey in MMA led him across the world to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages. Then Jared watches the fight live with Chase, who provides real-time commentary, insight, and reflection on what was going through his mind in the moment. It is a rare behind-the-scenes look at high-level MMA and a reminder that a world-class fighter can come from a place like Paragould.

Unexpected Connections with Curtis Cooksey

You never really know the stories people carry until you take the time to listen.

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Curtis Cooksey and discover a life shaped by unexpected connections, unlikely opportunities, and a deep love for the game of baseball. Curtis’s journey has taken him through minor league clubhouses, college athletics, professional wrestling, and the world of umpiring, all through a series of “how’d you land that gig?” moments that were anything but planned.

This conversation is about the hidden stories in our town, the power of relationships, and how curiosity and openness can lead to experiences you never saw coming. Also... this moment: https://youtube.com/shorts/Eh4eOfkgw6I?si=MiAY5aeOPXckeu4G

Leading Well When It’s Hard: Leadership with Sheriff Brad Snyder

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, emergency preparedness, and public service in Greene County.

Brad shares his journey from dispatcher to deputy to sheriff, including his experience working E-911 during the Marmaduke Tornado just one month into the job. We talk about how city and county agencies coordinate during severe weather and emergencies, how leaders plan manpower and resources before a crisis happens, and why strong collaboration matters more than ego or turf.

The conversation also explores the human side of law enforcement—how officers and dispatchers process trauma, what makes a good candidate for the job, and why doing the right thing is often the hardest choice. Brad also shares his focus on improving conditions for employees and inmates at the Greene County Detention Center, managing one of the largest county jails in Arkansas, and leading a team split between patrol and detention responsibilities.

Serving Greene County: Inside the Role of a County Judge with Rusty McMillon

In this episode of the Paragould Podcast, we’re joined once again by Rusty McMillon, making his fourth appearance on the show.

Judge McMillon helps clarify what the office of County Judge actually does, why he’s passionate about serving Greene County, and how that role impacts everyday life in our community. We also talk through recent updates around the county, leadership responsibilities, and what it looks like to serve well in a role that often works behind the scenes.

If you’re curious about local government, care about the future of Greene County, or just enjoy thoughtful conversations about leadership and service, this episode is for you.

Rivalry Week in Paragould: Coach Jace Watson on Preparing the Rams for GCT

As rivalry week arrives in Paragould, Paragould Boys Head Basketball Coach Jace Watson joins The Paragould Podcast to talk leadership, preparation, and the culture behind Rams basketball. Coach Watson shares his journey into coaching, lessons learned over two decades on the sidelines, and how this team has grown to expect wins after years of adversity. With a big matchup against Greene County Tech looming, this conversation offers insight into motivation, managing pressure, and what it takes to build a winning program.

Leading With Character: Olivia Hancock’s Journey to West Point

In this episode, we sit down with Olivia Hancock, a Paragould native and recent graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. Olivia shares her journey from competing in high school athletics to earning an appointment to one of the most demanding leadership institutions in the world.

She walks us through the rigorous process of acceptance, the daily discipline required at West Point, and the leadership lessons learned through pressure, failure, and responsibility. Olivia reflects on the influence of her family, the role of faith in navigating rejection and uncertainty, and the importance of leading with integrity, confidence, and a clear way forward.

Olivia offers a thoughtful perspective on character-driven leadership and why the journey matters more than the destination.

Paragould’s Year in Review + Preview: A Conversation with Mayor Josh Agee

Mayor Josh Agee returns to The Paragould Podcast for his annual State of the City conversation — his sixth appearance on the show.

In this episode, Josh walks us through what the City of Paragould has actually accomplished over the past year, how major decisions are made, and what’s shaping the city’s future. We talk about infrastructure projects like trail expansion, sidewalks, land bank redevelopment, and pocket parks, as well as the behind-the-scenes realities of public safety, disaster response, and city budgeting.

Josh also reflects on the challenges of leadership in the age of social media, why representative government exists, and what it costs — financially and relationally — to keep a city running. From tornado recovery and emergency response to long-term investment, trash services, and economic development, this conversation offers a clear picture of how Paragould is growing and why collaboration matters.

Whether you’re curious about city projects, civic process, or the vision for making Paragould a place people want to move to — and come back to — this episode provides helpful context and honest perspective.

From Paragould to Vegas in 8 Seconds, with Bull Rider Eli Edgar

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, we sit down with Eli Edgar, a junior professional bull rider whose journey moved quickly from the stands to the arena. At just 14 years old, a moment at the Sikeston Rodeo sparked a desire that would grow into competition at the highest junior levels of the sport.

Eli shares how a third-generation passion for rodeos and breaking horses shaped his path, from steer riding and early competitions in Pocahontas and Cave City to qualifying on the Texas circuit and becoming the first Arkansan to qualify for the Junior National Finals Rodeo in bull riding.

The conversation also explores the mental and spiritual side of bull riding. Eli reflects on the role of his dad as a steady presence and mental coach, the discipline of preparation, and how faith—anchored in Psalm 91—guides him before every ride.

This episode is a story of legacy, focus, courage, and the commitment to do whatever you’re called to do 100%.