Paragould Podcast

What makes Walmart great with Terry Melton, GM of the Supercenter

Terry Melton has been working for Walmart since he turned 16, 40 years ago. He displayed the values of Walmart in empathy, diversity, and humility such that by the age of 23 he was the GM of his own store. Since the end of 2000, he has been the GM of our local Walmart Supercenter and came on the show to talk about what it takes to run the largest retailer in Greene County. 

Erik Wright returns to share about his struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts

This episode is Erik Wright's incredible vulnerability in his suffering of depression and suicidal thoughts. In this episode we talk at length about how a person gets to the point where they are considering a permanent solution to a temporary problem. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression and especially suicidal thoughts, please connect with people you trust. If you are uncomfortable with that, Erik shares that the suicide hotline was extremely helpful for him. You can reach out for help using the number 988 via call or texting. 

Bonus Episode! The Podcast visits Paragould High School for a live recording!

On April 2, Jared and Chris were honored with the opportunity to teach students from more than 10 NEA schools about podcasting. Each of this students were involved in the EAST Initiatives in their schools. EAST stands for Education Accelerated by Service and Technology, combining the tech interests of the students with the opportunity to address real world problems in their communities. We had the opportunity to demonstrate a real podcast recording with Paragould High School East Administrator, Stephanie Cooper. Enjoy this bonus episode and join us in wishing the best for these students who had some really great podcast ideas! 

When the FBI storms your house, with Jason Wolfenbarger

If the FBI stormed your house, what would be going through your head? Jason Wolfenbarger joined the show to tell us all about what led up to April 6, 2021, his experience in the moment of being arrested by countless officers, and his long humbling road to accepting the reality that he was an addict in need of help. In this incredibly vulnerable episode, Jason shared all about how and why he got caught up in a life he never dreamed he would be living.

Ronnie and Jordan Richardson, owners of Peak Fitness

Peak Fitness owners, Ronnie and Jordan Richardson have created an amazing culture where members feel comfortable doing something uncomfortable: walking in the doors of a gym. From group boot camps, to yoga classes, to boxing lessons, Peak Fitness is more than a gym; it's a family.

Hamburger Station owner, Bert Daggett

Hamburger Station has been a staple in Paragould since 1925. It's been featured on TV shows, books, and countless articles. In 1998 Bert bought the restaurant from its previous owners. However, today's episode is about so much more than a hamburger. Bert opens up vulnerably to talk about a struggle with Alcohol addiction and how he just sought help in recovery. You won't want to miss this incredible episode of the Paragould Podcast. 

Jimmy Dodd, legendary Announcer on Paragould Rams Sports Network

Jimmy Dodd is on the podcast this week! It was special for us to have two legends in the Paragould Rams Sports Network family talking Paragould schools history, what it takes to be a great broadcaster, and the importance of school spirit. We hit on Doc Paynter and the new gym that Paragould will be building by fall of 2025. This is a great episode for Rams, Eagles, and Falcons fans alike!

Bill Phillips takes us back to 1935

Bill Phillips has experienced a lot of life in his nearly 90 years. For most of his life he has lived right here in Paragould. He first worked at the Gulf Oil Company service station that is now Carlos' Street Tacos Downtown, but he spent the majority of his vocational career with Paragould Municipal Utilities, though of course it was not named that 50 years ago. 

Jiles Wright is a World Record Holder in Xtreme Fast Draw

Jiles Wright survived a horrific plane crash in 1990, but found his way back in the pilots seat a few years later. The adrenaline rush that comes from flying was amplified even more when he discovered the sport of Fast Draw target shooting. At first he shot in the stance he was trained as a police officer. Before long, he found his form and became a champion. Earlier this year, he became not just a champion, but the fastest of all time in the Xtreme Fast Draw of America organization. 

Sgt. Luke Morris of the Greene County Jail

Luke Morris has been working at the Greene County Jail for just 18 months, but has already made a huge impact in the opinion of Jail Leadership. In today's episode we talk about a day in the life at jail, how to remain calm in a chaotic situation, leadership, and why so many inmates are repeat offenders.