SO NWA

They Built More Than a Barbershop... They Built a Community | Emily & Josh Saffran

Episode 34 - In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Emily and Josh Saffran, owners of The Gents Place in Bentonville, to talk about entrepreneurship, family, leadership, and creating an experience that goes far beyond a haircut. We dive into how Josh's vision for a premium men's grooming club became a reality, how Emily transitioned from nursing into business ownership, and what it takes to balance raising six kids while running a growing company. We also discuss: • The story behind bringing The Gents Place to the Walmart Home Office campus • Why experience matters more than transactions • Building meaningful relationships in Northwest Arkansas • The impact of GentsGiving and giving back through community initiatives • Entrepreneurship, growth, and work-life balance • Their favorite places around Northwest Arkansas • Rapid-fire questions, food favorites, and plenty of laughs Whether you're a business owner, community builder, or simply love hearing local success stories, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Follow SO NWA for more conversations with the people shaping Northwest Arkansas. https://thegentsplace.com/service_location/bentonville-fountain-plaza-ar/

From Burnout to Healing: How Kassie Ogle Reversed Hashimoto’s Naturally

Episode 33- In this episode of SO NWA Podcast, we sit down with Kassie Ogle — furniture store owner, home staging expert, CrossFit athlete, and entrepreneur — for one of our most personal and eye-opening conversations yet. Cassie opens up about her experience with Hashimoto’s disease, chronic inflammation, anxiety, gut health, and the lifestyle changes that completely transformed her health journey. We talk about the impact of stress, processed foods, fitness, holistic healing, and what it really means to prioritize your health in today’s world. Beyond health, we also dive into: • Home staging & real estate • Building businesses in Northwest Arkansas • CrossFit & community • Nutrition, habits & mindset • Moving from NWA to Joplin • The future of wellness and entrepreneurship This episode is packed with practical advice, honest conversation, and a powerful reminder that health truly is wealth. Follow SO NWA Podcast for more stories highlighting the people, businesses, and communities shaping Northwest Arkansas.

The Frisco Kid Story: Comedy, Faith, Hustle & Going All In.

Episode 32 -This week on the SO NWA Podcast, we sit down with Northwest Arkansas comedian Francisco Valencia — better known as Frisco Kid. From moving to Arkansas through J.B. Hunt to building one of the fastest-growing comedy brands in the region, Frisco Kid shares the real story behind the laughs. We talk about betting on yourself, handling criticism, building community, staying authentic, and how comedy completely changed his life. We also dive into: * His journey from open mics to packed comedy shows Performing in places like Oklahoma, Nashville, and New York * His upcoming testimony-based comedy show about faith and transformation * Why Northwest Arkansas became home * The importance of supporting local dreams and creators * Kill Tony stories, Chappelle Show memories, and hilarious crowd moments This episode is funny, motivating, raw, and full of real conversations about purpose, hustle, and staying true to yourself. If you’ve ever thought about chasing a dream, starting something new, or stepping outside your comfort zone — this episode is for you. Follow Frisco Kid: 📲 @thefriscokidlive Follow SO NWA Podcast: 📲 @sonewapodcast

Your Podcast Isn’t Growing… Here’s Why | With Ana Xavier

Episode 31- In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Ana Xavier, a podcast strategist and producer with over a decade of experience helping entrepreneurs launch and grow impactful podcasts. From starting her first show in 2008 to working across Portugal, London, and the U.S., Ana shares what actually works when it comes to podcasting—and what most people get wrong. We talk about: -Why most podcasts never grow-How to use a podcast as a business tool (not just content)-The mindset shifts that separate successful creators-How to stay consistent without burning out-Turning listeners into real relationships and opportunities Ana also breaks down how podcasting can be used as a tool for building trust, growing your network, and creating real opportunities. Whether you're thinking about starting a podcast or already have one, this episode is packed with practical insight and honest perspective. https://www.thepodcastspace.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thepodcastspace/?hl=en

Young, Hungry & Winning in NWA | The Story of Yair Benitez

Episode 30-In this episode of SO NWA, we sit down with Yair Benitez — a young entrepreneur making serious moves here in Northwest Arkansas. From starting out cutting hair in a garage to owning multiple barbershops and building a name in real estate, YB shares what it really takes to grow something from the ground up. We talk about: • The power of consistency (and what it actually looks like) • Taking risks when nothing is guaranteed • Balancing multiple businesses at a young age • Why responding fast can change everything in real estate • Staying grounded, giving back, and building real relationships This episode is for anyone trying to level up, stay focused, and build something meaningful — especially right here in NWA. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next move… this one’s for you. 🎧 Follow & connect with YB: Instagram: @ybtherealtor 📍 Based in Northwest Arkansas https://www.facebook.com/CultureCutsRogersAR/ https://www.instagram.com/ecstasybarberstudio_/