Paragould Podcast

More Than Meets the Eye with Optometrist Wesley Dunnam

Every career has a story, and for Dr. Wesley Dunnam, it starts with a baseball injury and a mission trip.

In this episode of The Paragould Podcast, Wesley shares the experiences that led him into optometry, from discovering the impact of something as simple as a pair of reading glasses to building a practice dedicated to serving the people of Paragould.

We also dive into some fascinating aspects of eye care, including how routine eye exams can reveal signs of serious health conditions elsewhere in the body, why comprehensive eye health is about much more than seeing clearly, and the challenges independent practices face as large corporations continue to reshape the industry.

Whether you're due for an eye exam or simply enjoy hearing the stories of people making a difference in our community, you'll walk away seeing the world a little differently.

49 Years on a Boat, with Bob Reynolds

As a 14-year-old boy from Memphis, Bob Reynolds spent $68 on a ticket to ride the legendary Delta Queen by himself. That single trip sparked a lifelong love of riverboats and launched a career that would span nearly five decades on America's waterways.

In this episode of the Paragould Podcast, Bob shares his incredible journey from dishwasher to deckhand, first mate, pilot, and eventually captain. Along the way, he met his future wife aboard the Delta Queen, traveled thousands of miles on the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee Rivers, and witnessed a way of life that few people experience today.

Bob reflects on 49 years working on riverboats and towboats, the lessons he learned from life on the water, and some unforgettable stories—including sharing a boat with President Jimmy Carter.

Whether you love history, river culture, or simply hearing remarkable life stories, you'll enjoy this conversation with a man who followed his passion and spent a lifetime doing what he loved.

Helping Others Grow Stronger with Jeff Charles

Jeff Charles wears a lot of hats: physical therapist, soccer coach, and jujitsu coach, but at the heart of each role is a passion for helping people grow.

In this episode, Jeff shares how discovering soccer as a kid helped shape his future, the lessons he learned from a hardworking Marine father, and why grit and perseverance have been more important in his life than natural talent. We discuss the challenge of helping patients reach their goals, the fine line between confidence and arrogance, what martial arts taught him about courage, and why coaching has become such a meaningful part of his life.

Whether you're a coach, athlete, parent, or simply someone trying to become a better version of yourself, Jeff's insights on discipline, humility, and helping others succeed offer plenty to think about.

Lessons from Nearly Four Decades in Preschool with Pam Parker

For nearly four decades, Pam Parker helped shape the lives of countless children through PALs Preschool. What began as a temporary stop in early childhood education became a 38-year calling, including more than 30 years as director.

In this episode, Pam joins her daughter, Heather Blankenship, to share stories from the classroom, the history of PALs Preschool, and lessons learned from working with young children and families. They discuss preparing children for school, the important role parents play in a child's success, why family dinners still matter, and what adults can learn from the way children forgive and trust.

It's a thoughtful conversation about education, parenting, strong families, and the lasting impact teachers have on the lives of their students.

Lori Dial on the Power of Trying

This week on The Paragould Podcast, Jared sits down with Lori Dial, longtime GCT theater teacher and local entertainer.

Lori shares her journey from growing up around Brookland and performing at The Roundup Music Show to teaching English and theater for nearly two decades. The conversation covers community theater, all-state competitions, the Veterans Day tradition at GCT, overcoming stage fright, and the mindset that has shaped her life and teaching:

“Feel the fear and do it anyway.”

It’s a conversation about creativity, courage, leadership, and why the willingness to try is often what leads to growth and success.

Michael Meredith on Faith, Leadership, and Humility

This week on The Paragould Podcast, Jared sits down with Michael Meredith, pastor at Center Hill Church of Christ. Originally from Texas, Michael shares the journey that brought him to Crowley’s Ridge College and eventually into ministry here in Paragould.

Along the way, the conversation explores faith, humility, leadership, and the importance of remaining teachable in a world where everyone seems certain they have the answers. Jared and Michael also discuss the basics of Christianity, the challenges of pastoral ministry, and why humility matters far beyond theology or church life.

Whether you’re a person of faith or simply interested in thoughtful conversation about life and leadership, this is an honest and engaging episode you won’t want to miss.

From GCT Champion to PHS Head Baseball Coach | Jacob Giles

Paragould Rams Head Baseball Coach Jacob Giles joins The Paragould Podcast ahead of a huge week for baseball and softball in our city as Paragould and Greene County Tech host the 5A State Tournaments.

Jacob shares about growing up in Greene County, winning a state championship at GCT, pitching at Harding University, and the unexpected path that led him into coaching. He also talks about returning home to Paragould, taking over the Rams baseball program, and what he’s learned about leadership, teamwork, and building culture along the way.

The conversation also explores the impact of the new turf fields, the challenge of leading young athletes, and what makes a truly great teammate.

With 32 teams from across Arkansas coming to Paragould this week, this felt like the perfect time to sit down with one of the people helping shape baseball in our community.

Spend Paragould! Why its important to spend locally with Chris Moyer

This week on The Paragould Podcast, Jared sits down with Chris Moyer to discuss a new initiative called Spend Paragould.

After conversations with local business owners revealed that many businesses are experiencing significant downturns, Chris and others decided to take action by encouraging people to spend their money in Paragould rather than outside the city.

The conversation explores the ripple effect of local spending, the difference between community and competition, the realities business owners are facing in today’s economy, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Spend Paragould is an innovative attempt to move from complaining to creating opportunities for local businesses. 

Garrett Wise and the Rise of Rodeo on the Ridge!

In this episode, we sit down with Garret Wise to hear the story behind Rodeo on the Ridge and how it grew from a small local event in 2016 into one of the biggest gatherings in Northeast Arkansas.

Garret shares how he first got into the rodeo world, the path that led him into bull fighting, and the moment someone suggested bringing rodeo back to the Greene County Fairgrounds. What started with a small crowd and limited support has grown into a multi-day event featuring rodeo competitions, live music, races, vendors, and family activities.

Along the way, we talk about the mindset it takes to step into the arena, the balance between confidence and humility, and what it looks like to build something that serves a community over time.

Built Over Time: Lessons from Coach Bruce Hunt

In this episode, we sit down with Greene County Tech Head Baseball Coach Bruce Hunt, who brings more than four decades of coaching experience to the conversation. A state champion in 2007, Coach Hunt reflects on what it takes to build a consistent and competitive program over time.

We talk about the mental side of baseball and why the ability to move on from one at bat to the next is essential for success. Coach Hunt shares how he teaches players to let go of mistakes, stay focused, and keep their attention on what is in front of them.

The conversation also explores how athletics shapes character, the lessons different sports teach, and why servant leadership is a foundation for becoming a good man. We also discuss what it means for Greene County Tech to host the state tournament and the opportunity that brings for the program and community.

This episode offers insight into leadership, discipline, and the mindset needed to grow both on and off the field.