Paragould Podcast

2021 in Review: 3 Biggest Takeaways

Jared reflects on his 3 biggest takeaways from this year’s guests and shares a few highlights from various episodes.

A Message to Kids from Santa!

Santa stopped by the studio to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas, and to let you know that he will be at the 2021 Winter Wonderland Christmas Parade in downtown Paragould on December 7th at 7pm. 

Former Mayor of Tuckerman and Retired State Trooper David Dixon i.e. Santa Claus

David began his career as a State Trooper in 1984. During his first year, David was ordered by his post sergeant to play Santa at their Christmas party. Although he enjoyed the experience he didn't put the outfit back on until 2009. It was at that time he realized how much joy he could bring children, and after retiring in 2015 he decided to become Santa full-time and bring joy and laughter to young and old alike during each Christmas season. Visit https://neasanta.com/ to find out how to bring Santa to your next event.

Choosing Paragould and Family Business with Kenny and Beth Ford

Beth and Kenny are approaching their 29th anniversary of living in Paragould, and on today's episode they discuss what drew them here. Additionally, the Fords offer great insight as to what builds a strong family and lasting marriage.

Friendship and Learning to Bloom Where You are Planted with Bryce and Heidi Anderson

Bryce and Heidi moved to Paragould with plans to get their careers and marriage kick-started before moving on to bigger and better things. Because of their friendships and community, they are still here 15 years later with deep roots and a commitment to see our city thrive. Today they join us on the podcast to discuss their journey and the beauty of friendships.

Bryce is an Agriculture Sales Representative for Syngenta. Heidi is a CPA  and owner of Heidi Anderson CPA: Taxation, Accounting, Advisory

Something Sweet and Something Pawsitive Owner Tracy Mothershed

In addition to being the owner of Something Sweet, Tracy is the Cake Artist. In this episode, she shares why she started baking, how it turned into a business, and why she opened Paragould's only cat lounge, Something Pawsitive.

Main Street Paragould Director Gina Jarrett and Assistant Director Miranda Maxwell

On today's episode, Gina and Miranda provide a quick history lesson of downtown Paragould. Our city is served well by these two women who love the city and desire to see it flourish.

Executive Vice President/COO at BUNN Mark Watson

Mark was raised in Paragould and had plans to live here forever. After finishing college, there were no jobs in the area so he began working an entry-level position at Parker Hannifin in Trumann, AR, where he was eventually promoted to the position of Global Operations Manager. In 2011, he started at BUNN, and today he's their COO. Mark is a humble, honest leader who loves our city.

His new book, Joyous Leadership: Stories of Learnings Along the Way will be available to order later this year. 

Licensed Counselor and Motivational Speaker Matthew Knight

For the last fifteen years, Matthew Knight has worked in education, public relations, and marketing for Mid-South Health Systems. He develops and provides a variety of training programs for business, industry, and educational groups.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, he has thirty years experience in mental health services, and he provides education, consulting, and motivational presentations across the U.S.

In addition he has been a school teacher and administrator, started two businesses, written music in Nashville, and produced an award winning motion picture.His book, “Leaving Fingerprints,” is available on Amazon.

Owner of Cultured Man and CEO of Project Paragould Nate Archibald

Nate is a lifelong Paragould resident, and he opened Cultured Man in downtown earlier this year. As CEO of Project Paragould, Nate organizes individuals to make Paragould a cleaner, neater, safer and more exciting place to live and visit.