Shows
FayetteForward033: Passive House Series #2: Systems Thinking and Human-Centered Design with Cameron CajaCameron Caja joins us to explore the world of Passive House design—what it is, how it works, and why it matters for Northwest Arkansas. From energy modeling and airtight membranes to long-term resilience and community health, Cameron unpacks the systems thinking behind better buildings. He also shares insights on affordability, incremental change, and his work with Habitat for Humanity to make high-performance housing more accessible.Show Links:Cameron CajaPolaris High Performance HomesPassive Building PrinciplesKUAF Story on Magnolia HouseNWA Democrat-Gazette Story on Magnolia HouseEnergy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)Home Energy RxPhiusSpring Street Passive HouseCity of Fayetteville Composting Pr...2025-07-271h 00
FayetteForward032: Passive House Series #1: Designing Arkansas’s First Certified Passive House with Michael CockramIn this launch of our Passive House Series, architectural designer Michael Cockram walks us through the vision and process behind Arkansas’s first certified Passive House—the Magnolia House. Built on a tandem lot in his former backyard, Michael’s project showcases the power of high-performance design, strong collaboration, and ecological mindfulness. It’s an inspiring start to a series focused on how we can build smarter, healthier homes.Show Links:Bowerbird DesignKUAF Story on Magnolia HouseNWA Democrat-Gazette Story on Magnolia HousePhiusRain GardensOMNI Center for Peace, Justice & EcologyShore & Cockram MusicBacktracks Podcast#PassiveHouse #MagnoliaHouse #FayetteForward #Sustaina...2025-07-1540 min
FayetteForward031: Beyond Playgrounds: Parks as Infrastructure with Alison JumperIn episode 31, Alison Jumper, Fayetteville’s Director of Parks, Natural Resources, and Cultural Affairs, shares her journey from landscape architect to city leader. We explore how parks can drive public health, sustainability, and social connection, all while aiming for the bold vision of high-quality green spaces within a 10-minute walk for everyone. From dog parks and drum circles to tubing streams and aquatic dreams, this episode dives into how Fayetteville is redefining what public space can be.Show Links:Fayetteville Parks, Natural Resources, and Cultural Affairs (GoPlayFay)Fayetteville’s Adopt Your Outdoors ProgramFayetteville Parks Department DirectoryFayetteville's Pick...2025-06-1043 min
FayetteForward030: Building a More Connected Northwest Arkansas with Meredith BergstromIn episode 30, Meredith Bergstrom, Senior Program Officer at the Walton Family Foundation, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of Northwest Arkansas. We discuss housing affordability, transportation options, community engagement, and how thoughtful land use can shape stronger communities. Meredith shares insights into the Razorback Regional Greenway Corridor Plan, an ambitious effort to encourage a transportation mode shift and strategic development along the Greenway. Throughout the episode, she highlights the power of regional collaboration and dreaming big for a more connected, inclusive, and vibrant region.Show Links:Walton Family Foundation – Home Region Program: Supporting vi...2025-04-2856 min
FayetteForward029: Strong Downtowns and Portfolios of Passions with Ezequiel TovarIn episode 29, lifelong Northwest Arkansas resident, Rogers Planning Commissioner, and passionate urbanist Ezequiel Tovar joins us to discuss the power of strong downtowns and people-centered planning. Drawing from his background in finance and consulting, Ezequiel shares insights on the challenges and opportunities of urban development in a rapidly growing region. We also explore how investing in walkability, public spaces, and thriving local businesses creates more vibrant, resilient communities.#fayetteforward #fayettevillear #fayettevillearkansas #northwestarkansas #rogersar #rogersarkansas #strongdowntowns #activetransportationShow Links:Zweig GroupUrban3Strong TownsUCA's Community Development PipelineUrban Land Institute (ULI) NWAIncremental Development AllianceTrailblazers NWALaneshift (Active Transportation...2025-02-081h 03
FayetteForward028: Travel, Growth, and Giving Back with Fred GulleyIn episode 28, Fayetteville Planning Commissioner Fred Gulley reflects on his journey from growing up in Fayetteville to exploring the world and returning to shape his hometown’s future. He offers compelling insights into smart growth, community engagement, and how global experiences fuel his vision for Fayetteville. Don’t miss this thoughtful conversation on planning, progress, and the power of public participation!Show Links:Fayetteville Planning CommissionFayetteville Civil Service CommissionBoys & Girls Club of FayettevilleM&N Augustine Foundation2025-01-0545 min
FayetteForward027: Small Developers, Big Impacts: Creating Vibrant Communities with Alli Thurmond QuinlanIn Episode 27, we interview Fayetteville-based architect, landscape architect, small-scale developer, and Executive Director of the Incremental Development Alliance, Alli Thurmond Quinlan. Alli explores the transformative power of small-scale development to revitalize neighborhoods, preserve natural spaces, and tackle housing affordability. From zoning reform and infill development to regional collaboration, she unpacks the challenges and opportunities of building lovable and vibrant cities. Don’t miss this inspiring and actionable conversation on the future of urban growth in Northwest Arkansas!Show Links:Flintlock LABIncremental Development AllianceULI Northwest Arkansas REDI ProgramFollow FayetteForward on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookThreadsBluesky2024-12-091h 09
FayetteForward026: ULI NWA Place Summit 2024 feat. Wes Marshall & Alison SantIn Episode 26, we recap the 2024 ULI Northwest Arkansas Place Summit, where experts and advocates gathered to discuss urban planning, climate resilience, and housing reform. Featuring interviews with keynote speakers Wes Marshall and Alison Sant, as well as insights from local change-makers, we explore topics like tree canopy equity, state-level zoning reform, traffic safety, transit, active transportation, and more. Join us for a compelling look at how placemaking and policy are shaping the future of our communities.Show Links:ULI NWA Place SummitIsaac StevensSimone SinghRandy Wilburn / I am Northwest Arkansas podcastWes MarshallWes Marshall's book: Killed by a...2024-11-2647 min
FayetteForward025: A Student’s Voice in Local Politics with Natalie NohinekIn episode 25, we chat with Natalie Nohinek, a University of Arkansas political science student, endurance athlete, podcast host, and lover of local politics. Natalie shares her passion for trails, transit, and civic participation, offering a fresh perspective on how young people can engage with local government. We first met Natalie at a recent city council meeting, where her amusing commentary and fun energy caught our attention, and she was an absolute delight to interview!Show Links:Natalie's Podcast: Natalie in State and Local GovernmentFollow FayetteForward on Social Media:LinkedInInstagramFacebookThreads2024-11-1746 min
FayetteForward024: Connecting Design, Faith, and Advocacy: Shaping Fayetteville with Jessica LewallenIn episode 24, Jessica Lewallen, founder of Gemstone Design Studio and a member of the Fayetteville Housing Crisis Task Force, joins us to discuss her multifaceted career in architecture, urban planning, and community advocacy. We explore her passion for addressing Fayetteville’s housing crisis, the connections between her faith and professional work, and the role of churches in providing sustainable housing solutions. Jessica also shares insights into the 71B rezone, Urban Land Institute initiatives, and the importance of enhancing public transportation and active transportation infrastructure to build a more connected and inclusive community. Additionally, she highlights her efforts to promote di...2024-10-221h 02
FayetteForward023: Sculpting Fayetteville's Artistic Identity with Eugene SargentIn episode 23, we sit down with Eugene Sargent, a longtime Fayetteville artist known for his iconic public sculptures. Eugene opens up about his journey from a back-to-the-land hippie kid to a leading figure in the city’s artistic community. He shares insights into his creative process, how he approaches public art, and the importance of quirky, accessible art in shaping the city’s identity.Show Links:Eugene Sargent's websiteTerra StudiosMount Sequoyah ArtsFenix ArtsFayetteville Arts & CultureOrchard Square Bentonville2024-09-291h 01
FayetteForward022: Planning for People: Transforming Northwest Arkansas with Wes CraiglowIn episode 22, Wes Craiglow, Executive Director of Urban Land Institute Northwest Arkansas, shares his journey from city planner to thought leader in urban development. Wes offers a compelling vision for transforming Northwest Arkansas through people-focused planning, drawing on nearly two decades of experience. He explores the critical issues of housing attainability, the overproduction of suburban developments, and the region’s need to shift toward more sustainable, walkable urban centers. Throughout the conversation, Wes emphasizes the importance of leveraging Fayetteville’s unique strengths—like its walkability, transit systems, and downtown core—while balancing growth with the need for thoughtful, community-driven solution...2024-09-091h 32
FayetteForward021: From Galleries to Greenways: Art and Placemaking with Dayton CastlemanIn Episode 21, Dayton Castleman, Director of Creative Placemaking at Verdant Studio, discusses the intersection of art and urban development in Northwest Arkansas. He explores how public art contributes to placemaking, emphasizing the importance of understanding a location's existing characteristics before artistic intervention, and... Eastern European Worcestershire sauce. Castleman highlights the unique role of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in shaping the area's cultural landscape and discusses how artists can contribute to creating vibrant, connected communities. Despite challenges such as the lack of an established institutional framework and collector base, he notes a growing entrepreneurial spirit among local artists...2024-08-2857 min
FayetteForward020: Urbanism and Integrity: Navigating Change with Chris AllcornIn episode 20, Chris Allcorn from Specialized Real Estate Group shares his insights on urban development and navigating change in Northwest Arkansas and beyond. Chris discusses his fascinating and inspiring journey to Fayetteville, highlighting his passion for adaptive reuse, placemaking, and community-focused development. He offers valuable perspectives on balancing growth with integrity, addressing challenges in infill development and affordable housing, while emphasizing the importance of creating vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that foster a sense of community. We also explore the future of Fayetteville's growth and the significance of empowering more individuals to engage in small-scale, community-oriented development projects.Show...2024-08-041h 30
FayetteForward019: Bike Commuting and Urbanist Dreams with Isaac StevensIn episode 19, Isaac Stevens shares his journey into urbanism, his experiences with bike commuting year-round, and the state of infrastructure in Northwest Arkansas.. He also discusses the vital role of bicycles in making cities more accessible and sustainable, the value of social infrastructure after a tornado impacted his community, and much more!Show Links:Not Just Bikes YouTube channelIsaac Stevens on MediumBenton County Strong Facebook groupULI Northwest Arkansas Place Summit 2024Palaces for the People (and other books) by Eric KlinenbergPedal It Forward NWAFayetteForward episode 17 featuring Joel Gardner of ORTLectric XPedition Cargo eBike2024-07-2157 min
FayetteForward018: Roller Skating as Transportation with Fredwyn StoryIn episode 18, we welcome Fredwyn Story, an avid roller skater who gets around town primarily on skates. They share their unique experiences and challenges of using roller skates as a primary mode of transportation. We discuss safety tips, the importance of community, and aspirations for improving the local trail system. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation that showcases the freedom and fun of a life on wheels!Show Links:Natural State Roller DerbyStarlight SkatiumThe Groove Skate ShopTrail Skating WhatsApp GroupClem Skates2024-07-0836 min
FayetteForward017: Talkin' Regional Transit with Joel GardnerIn this episode, we sit down with Joel Gardner, Executive Director of Ozark Regional Transit (ORT), who shares his unexpected journey into public transportation and his vision for Northwest Arkansas. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in developing a comprehensive transit system in NWA, from funding hurdles to the importance of community support.Show Links:Ozark Regional Transit (ORT)Napoli's Italian Restaurant in RogersBentonville/Rogers Exchange (BRX)ORT On-DemandBecome a Public Transit amBUSsador!Razorback TransitCombs ParkArisa HealthVeterans Health Care System of the Ozarks2024-06-241h 14
I Am Northwest Arkansas®NWA Transplant Series: Nick and Meredith Castin Share Their Journey from Southern California to Northwest ArkansasAbout the Show:"If you're not growing, you're dying. Nothing's going to stay the same forever."Nick CastinAbout the Guests:Nick and Meredith Castin, a dynamic couple originally from San Diego, have made the picturesque Northwest Arkansas their new home. Meredith, with strong roots in Northeast Texas, aspired to be closer to family and sought out a community that resonates with warmth, connection, and a sense of belonging. Nick, accustomed to the vibes of Southern California, embarked on this journey with Meredith, embracing the move with an open mind. Together, they...2024-04-0848 min
FayetteForward016: It's Been Veloway Too LongIn episode 16, it's just the two of us catching you up on what we find interesting! Topics include The Veloway in Austin, Trail Skating in Fayetteville, Fayetteville’s Permit-Ready Building Design Program, Combs Park, Mission Trail, Appleby Bike Lane, Poplar St. Pump House Community Art Wall, Affordable Housing Resolutions, Gulley Park Urbanism, and more!Show Links:I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast (our episode will be released sometime in April)Fayetteville Planning CommissionThe Veloway in AustinA video we made about the Veloway!Bentonville Cycling CenterVan Scyoc Trailhead in JohnsonNiokaska Creek TrailWalker Park to Kessler MountainArkansas Rollerskate Crew on...2024-03-3031 min
FayetteForward015: Insights From an Urbanist Developer with Ward DavisIn episode 15, we delve into the world of urban development with Ward Davis, the insightful and hilarious founding partner of High Street Real Estate & Development. Ward shares his journey from finance to shaping the urban landscapes of Northwest Arkansas, discussing the intricate balance between smart growth, community engagement, and the economic realities of development. He offers a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of bringing sustainable mixed-use projects to life, illuminating the complex interplay of long-range planning, zoning, and development codes. Ward also provides valuable advice for aspiring builders and urbanism activists, shaping a vision for the future...2024-01-2259 min
FayetteForward014: The 2023 Fayetteville Housing Assessment with Britin BostickIn episode 14, we welcome back Britin Bostick, Fayetteville's Long Range Planning & Special Projects Manager, to the podcast! We discuss the 2023 Fayetteville Housing Assessment, which was created in response to rapid population growth, increasing housing costs, and housing access challenges that have come to the forefront of community discussions and concerns since the start of 2020.Links:2023 Fayetteville Housing Assessment2023-12-041h 33
FayetteForward013: A Vision for a Vibrant Fayetteville with Alex HowlandIn episode 13, we sit down with the delightfully dynamic Alex Howland. In addition to her growing businesses, Dovetail and Alex Victtoria Events, she also does great work with ULI NWA. Join us as we uncover the potential of thoughtful urban planning in creating an even more lively, sustainable, and inclusive Fayetteville.DovetailAlex Victtoria EventsORT On-DemandNew hotel projectULI NWASLS CommunityCircles NWAONBoardNWAGroundwork2023-11-2748 min
FayetteForward012: An International Perspective with Clark EckelsIn this episode, we speak with Clark Eckels, iFriend Coordinator at the University of Arkansas, and a member of Fayetteville Strong. Clark shares his experiences living in Bilbao, Spain, and shares the perspective of international students at the U of A! He also discusses a lot of great ideas about how he'd love to see NWA grow.Show Links:Clark EckelsBilbao, SpainiFriend programsCampus Cousins programFriendship Family programVision ZeroHolly St. Tactical Urbanism ProjectTactical UrbanismNWA GONWA GO Facebook groupUtrecht has the LARGEST bicycle parking and a BIKE PATH on a school roofWorld's Largest Bicycle Parking Garage in Utrecht...2023-11-0539 min
FayetteForward011: Maximizing the Impact of Art in Fayetteville with Joanna BellIn this episode, we talk about maximizing the impact of art in Fayetteville with Joanna Bell, Arts and Culture Director for the city of Fayetteville!Show Links:Fayetteville Arts and Culture DivisionTheatreSquaredMunicipal Arts AllianceSprayettevilleTactical UrbanismCenter for Innovation at FPLCommunity Creative CenterMount Sequoyah2023-10-0341 min
FayetteForward010: Arts and Culture with Brittany JohnsonIn this episode, we talk arts and culture with the delightful Brittany Johnson from CACHE!Show Links:CACHEMunicipal Arts AllianceThe Unexpected (Fort Smith)SprayettevilleCACHE Artist DirectoryGroundwavesRailyard LiveFolk School of FayettevilleFayetteville StrongTactical UrbanismLikewiseThe MediumCreative MorningsCenter for Innovation at FPLThe High Line in NYArsaga'sPearl’s BooksBrittany's podcast, Life Changing Lit (STAY TUNED!)2023-09-1354 min
FayetteForward009: Fayetteville Strong with DeLani BartletteIn this episode, we welcome DeLani Bartlette, a lifelong NWA resident, and founder of Fayetteville Strong.Show Links:Fayetteville Strong (Facebook group)Razorback TransitSeeClickFixShifter (YouTube)Not Just Bikes (YouTube)Strong TownsIt’s a Sprawl World After All by Douglas E. MorrisArt VenturesMissing Middle Housing2023-08-2744 min
FayetteForward008: The Future of Downtown and Events Galore with Kelly RichIn this episode, we welcome Kelly Rich, Director of Downtown Initiatives at Experience Fayetteville! We talk about the future of downtown Fayetteville, as well as a number of exciting new events coming our way. From Falltoberfest to a potential Block St. Block Party reboot to a new downtown wine bar to a future BB&BBQ replacement, there's no shortage of cool stuff to look forward to in Fayetteville!Show Links:Falltoberfest announcementDowntown FayettevilleArkansas Brewers GuildHannah Withers on LinkedInUrban Cellar WineryUrban Cellar Winery moving to downtown FayettevilleExperience FayettevilleA&P CommissionFayetteville council OKs giving taxpayer money to downtown...2023-08-0341 min
FayetteForward007: Trails and Active Transportation Equity with Prentis Grayson and David CriswellIn this episode, we welcome Prentis Grayson, Senior Manager of Outreach & Advocacy at Trailblazers, and David Criswell, Senior Director of Active Transportation at Trailblazers. We dive into the new Northwest Arkansas Trails and Active Transportation Equity Report!Show Notes:Trailblazers (Instagram, Facebook)Trailblazers Events CalendarTrailblazers Trail Adoption Program (TAP)NWA Trails & Active Transportation Equity ReportStrong TownsJeff Speck's Walkable CityActive Transportation Advisory CommitteeFayetteville Traffic Calming PolicyFayetteville Tactical UrbanismFayetteville City CouncilBike POCOzark Off Road CyclistsPics from Star Wars Slow Roll @ Fayetteville First ThursdayNorthwest Arkansas Land TrustCircles NWAPedal It Forward2023-07-2747 min
FayetteForward006: Active Transportation with Matt Mihalevich and Dane EiflingIn this episode, we welcome Matt Mihalevich, Active Transportation Manager for the City of Fayetteville, and Dane Eifling, Mobility Coordinator for the City of Fayetteville. We delve into the development and planning of Fayetteville's trail system, and so much more!Show Notes:Active Transportation Advisory CommitteeActive Transportation PlanMobility PlanMaster Street PlanMission Blvd. Corridor TrailMidtown Corridor ProjectCity ParkFossil Cove Brewing CompanySeeClickFixWhat People Get Wrong About Induced Demand (YouTube)Pick Me Up ProgramElectric Bike and Scooter Share (Micromobility)NWA Regional “Vision Zero” Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP)Peace at Home Family ShelterPedal It Forward2023-07-1656 min
FayetteForward005: Fayetteville Past, Present, and Future with Britin Bostick (Part 2 of 2)Britin Bostick is the City of Fayetteville's Long Range Planning/Special Projects Manager and works with everything from historic preservation to development code amendments to transportation to sustainability to parks, arts, housing, and more!In part two of two, we chat about the long-term vision for Fayetteville, public transportation, transit-supportive density, zoning, NWA’s growth, affordable housing, short-term rentals, and more!City of Fayetteville 2040 Plan71B Corridor PlanFayetteville GIS mapsCensus data for FayettevilleNWA Council - HousingNWA Regional Planning CommissionFayetteville City CouncilFayetteville Long-Range Planning Department2023-07-0953 min
FayetteForward004: Fayetteville Past, Present, and Future with Britin Bostick (Part 1 of 2)Britin Bostick is the City of Fayetteville's Long Range Planning/Special Projects Manager and works with everything from historic preservation to development code amendments to transportation to sustainability to parks, arts, housing, and more!In part one of two, we chat about Fayetteville history, community feedback, trail-oriented development, and much more!City of Fayetteville Planning DivisionCity of Fayetteville Historic PreservationEllis Building history71B Corridor PlanFayetteville GIS mapsFayetteville Unified Development Code2023-07-0255 min
FayetteForward003: Accessibility and Community with Hershel HartfordHershel Hartford joins us for a great chat about accessibility, community, and so much more!Active Transportation Advisory CommitteeFayetteville Trail MapsDrake Trail and Street ImprovementsBus Operator Job Opportunities: Razorback Transit / Ozark Regional Transit)Speak Up FayettevilleFayetteville Downtown Parking DeckWest Avenue Civic Plaza (Upper Ramble)Fayetteville Boards, Committees and CommissionsSeeClickFix (Git 'er done!)7 Hills Homeless CenterJane B. Gearhart Full Circle Food PantrySt. Paul’s Episcopal Church2023-06-1449 min
FayetteForward002: Everything Is (And Should Be) Connected with Randy WilburnRandy Wilburn of I Am Northwest Arkansas joins us for a wide-ranging and interesting discussion!Razorback GreenwayOld Wire Road Cycle TrackNiokaska Creek TrailOzark Regional Transit / ORT On-DemandMission Blvd. Corridor TrailSEPTA in PhillyBoston MBTAYIMBY Northwest Arkansas Facebook groupNorthwest Arkansas CouncilThe FutureIsNow Speaker SeriesArkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA)MassHousingKeaton SmithMervin JebarajI Am Northwest ArkansasOnBoard NWAORT On-Demand Fayetteville Hours (as of June 2023):Monday-Thursday / 6:30 AM – 7:00 PMFriday / 6:30 AM – 11:00 PMSaturday / 10:00 AM – 10:00 PMSunday / No Service2023-06-0950 min
FayetteForward001: Our FavoritevilleHello, world!We're your hosts, Meredith and Nick Castin, and we're excited to start on this journey with you. :)On the FayetteForward podcast, we will discuss active transportation, trails, transit, city planning, affordable housing, and more—with the goal of sharing actionable ways to move Fayetteville forward in an inclusive way.Resources mentioned in this episode:Strong TownsPrairie St. Live!Arsaga's Mill DistrictAmerican Shaman Kava BarNoodlesNomad's TrailsideCity ParkFossil Cove Brewing CompanyWicked Woodfired PizzaUncommon Egg RollsHippie Hollow RefillBlack-Owned NWAFayetteville First ThursdayGulley Park Summer Concert SeriesI Am Northwest Arkansas (Randy Wilburn)Fayetteville StrongFayetteville Active Tr...2023-06-0941 minFayetteForwardLet's Keep Moving Fayetteville, Arkansas ForwardVisit the FayetteForward website, and find the FayetteForward podcast on Instagram2023-06-0701 min