It Takes a Valley: The Art of Ecosystem Building What if the secret to a thriving community isn’t competition but collaboration? In this episode, Samantha sits down with Anika Horn—ecosystem builder, global traveler, and co-founder of CreativeMornings Shenandoah Valley—to explore how connection and intention can transform a place. From growing…
Learn MoreRethink Classical: How Staunton Music Festival is Rewriting the Rules What happens when you take 100 world-class musicians from across the globe, drop them into a small Shenandoah Valley city, and ask them to perform pieces they’ve never played together before? Magic, apparently. In this episode, we sit down with…
Learn MoreTHE HARD WORK OF HARD HISTORY: INSIDE A PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY Why museums might be our best hope for civil dialogue. In this episode, Samantha sits down with Robin Von Seldeneck, President & CEO of the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum in Staunton, Virginia. They trace Robin’s journey from a…
Learn MoreParks & Recollections From bear cubs to bandstands, Chris Tuttle’s 36-year ride through Staunton’s parks proves the grass really is greener where you water it. In this unfiltered season finale, he shares stories of wrangling raccoons, defining learning moments, and the community spirit that makes it all worth it. About…
Learn MoreTangleroot: Author Kalela Williams on History, Healing, & Heritage What we bury still speaks. Author Kalela Williams takes us on her literary journey through memory, place, and identity—from a childhood encounter with hidden histories to her debut novel Tangleroot. She shares how unearthing untold stories of enslaved people shaped her…
Learn MoreThe Bones Are Good: The Secret to A Small-Town’s Revitalization Developer Robin Miller joins us to reveal how Staunton’s historic buildings are getting new life—thanks to the power of preservation, tax credits, and a little creative vision. Hear about the hidden gems behind old walls and why saving the past…
Learn MoreCulture in Color: Noelia Núñez Blends Community, Mediums, and Mindfulness From the brick facades of Beverley Street to the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley’s scenery is Noelia Núñez’ palette. Dive into her creative painting process, learn how social media catapulted her work, and hear why she keeps community…
Learn MoreCountry Roads & Family Ties: Wilson Fairchild’s Life in Harmony What happens when you grow up with country music royalty—and decide to carve your own path without forgetting your roots? In this episode, country duo Wilson Fairchild (Wil and Langdon Reid) take us behind the scenes of their musical journey,…
Learn MoreWatch Ya Mouth, Trust Ya Gut: How Chaos and Creativity Launched Startup Success How does a kid mowing lawns in West Virginia end up launching a bestselling game and building a creativity-fueled business hub in Staunton, VA? Peter Denbigh gets real about idea execution, building a killer team, and why…
Learn MoreReal, Rooted, & Rising: Danielle McEwen’s Bold Playbook to Business Danielle McEwen reveals why Staunton isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a catalyst. From tackling anxiety and entrepreneurship myths to harnessing the power of storytelling, she offers a blueprint for showing up, standing out, and leading with heart. About This Podcast The…
Learn MoreBreaking Bread and Boundaries: The Audacious Rise of Ian Boden From small-town roots to national acclaim, Ian Boden’s story is anything but ordinary. Hear how this 3x James Beard nominated chef took the path less traveled—and added a little fire along the way. We talk culinary passion, rebellious flavors, and…
Learn MoreSteel Rails, Scenic Trails: Why Train Travel Still Captivates Us Steve Powell, President of Buckingham Branch and Virginia Scenic Railway, joins us to talk about Staunton’s rail renaissance—from freight roots to unforgettable scenic excursions. Learn why train travel still captures hearts, how history is honored on every ride, and what’s…
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