The Local Insider

Protecting & Rebuilding: Sheriff Jason Massey on Justice, Community, and Second Chances in Logan County

Today's guest is someone who knows the meaning of community service in both word and action. Sheriff Jason Massey has been with the Logan County Sheriff's Department since 2008 and has served as our county's Sheriff since 2019. Under his leadership, the department has not only focused on law enforcement but also on restoring lives and reducing repeat offenses. Sheriff Massey has implemented programs that give inmates real opportunities for change, including an education initiative in partnership with Arkansas Tech University where inmates can earn their GED and develop vocational skills. He's also helped bring peer support programs to those struggling with addiction and has remained committed to youth engagement efforts through organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs and Shop With A Cop. A husband, father of five, and lifelong public servant — Sheriff Massey is running for re-election in 2026, and today he joins us to talk about where we've been, where we're going, and why second chances matter. You won't want to miss this conversation.

From Engineering to the Mission Field: The Extraordinary Journey of Bill Holbert

On this episode of The Local Insider, host Brian Cooper sits down with Bill Holbert—a man whose life journey has taken him from the oil fields of Odessa, Texas, to the remote jungles of Belize, and now to the heart of Booneville, Arkansas. Bill's story is one of adventure, dedication, and faith. After graduating high school in Basalt, Colorado, he pursued a degree in civil engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno, launching a career that led him to major roles with Peter Kiewit Construction, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Forest Service and the USGS. His work took him across the country—from Texas to Alaska—where he played a critical role in infrastructure and construction projects. But Bill's story doesn't stop at engineering. In 1998, he met his wife Stacy, and in 2012, they embarked on a new adventure—retirement in the country of Belize. There, they lived off the grid in a cabin in "the bush," dedicating their time to teaching local students computer skills. Eventually, they returned to the U.S. and settled in Booneville to care for Stacy's mother. Today, Bill continues to serve his community in a new way. He and Stacy run Stacy Holbert Photo Art, capturing memories at local sports games and creating custom photo art projects for graduating seniors. Bill is also a man of strong faith, leading a Sunday school class of over 30 adults every week at First Baptist Church in Booneville. Join us as we dive into Bill's incredible life story—his career in engineering, his time in Belize, his passion for family, and the faith that has guided him through it all. Don't miss this inspiring conversation! Like, share, and subscribe to The Local Insider for more stories from the fascinating people who make our communities special.

From American Idol Sensation to Acoustic Act of the Year: Ryan Harmon's Musical Journey

In this episode of The Local Insider, host Brian Cooper sits down with Arkansas singer-songwriter Ryan Harmon, who took the internet by storm with his unforgettable audition on season 3 of ABC's American Idol in March 2020. Performing his original song "I Knew This Would Happen," Ryan's audition quickly became a viral sensation, racking up nearly 20 million views on the show's official social media channels. His heartfelt performance resonated with audiences worldwide, and the song garnered over one million streams in 2020 alone. Ryan's unique blend of country and rock, influenced by legends like Travis Tritt and KISS, has earned him significant media attention, with major outlets such as Billboard and USA Today praising his musical style, humor, and magnetic personality. His powerful stage presence and distinctive sound helped him clinch the title of 2022 ACMA Acoustic Act of the Year, further solidifying his place in the music industry. Having shared the stage with a diverse range of artists, from Grand Ole Opry member Chris Janson to 90s metal icon SteelHeart, Ryan's versatility and talent are undeniable. In 2024, he released his highly anticipated EP, "The High Road," produced by fellow Arkansas singer-songwriter Travis Mobley. This five-track EP features some of Ryan's most personal work to date, including a new version of "The Likes of Me," featuring country star Jerrod Niemann on lap and pedal steel guitars, and tracks like the southern rock-inspired "Making a Living" and the poignant breakup ballad "I Bought Her Roses." Join us as we delve into Ryan Harmon's musical journey, exploring the stories behind his songs, his rise to fame, and what lies ahead for this remarkable artist. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, this episode promises to be an inspiring and entertaining conversation. Don't miss out on this exclusive interview! Like, share, and subscribe to The Local Insider for more insightful discussions with incredible talents.

From Service to Governance: Donald Keezer's Journey

Join us for an insightful episode of The Local Insider as we shine a spotlight on Logan County, Arkansas, with special guest Donald Keezer, Justice Of The Peace for District 7. With a deep-rooted connection to the local community and a diverse background that includes military service, Donald brings a unique perspective to the table. In this episode, we delve into Donald's journey from growing up in Paris, Arkansas, to serving in the Army National Guard's Special Forces Civil Affairs Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom. We explore how his military experiences have shaped his commitment to service and leadership in Logan County. From his involvement in enacting pay raises for Logan County EMS employees to his deep connections with local business and civic leaders, Donald provides valuable insights into the pressing issues and emerging trends within the county. We'll also uncover some fascinating anecdotes from his military career and how they've influenced his approach to governance and community involvement. Join us for a free-flowing conversation that highlights the impactful work of local leaders like Donald Keezer, as we celebrate the resilience and spirit of Logan County, Arkansas, on The Local Insider. Don't miss out on this engaging episode filled with stories, insights, and a deep dive into the heart of our community. Subscribe now and stay tuned for more exclusive content from The Local Insider!

Empathy, Resilience, and Ancient Mysteries with Isaac Sirk

Join us in this heartwarming episode of The Local Insider, where we sit down with Isaac Sirk, a dedicated individual who has spent two decades at the Booneville Human Development Center, a hub for mentally handicapped individuals. Isaac's journey is one of resilience and community spirit. Highlights from the Episode: 1. Community Impact: Discover how Isaac has been a pillar of strength at the Booneville Human Development Center for the past 20 years. His unwavering commitment to the well-being of mentally handicapped individuals in the community has left an indelible mark. 2. Overcoming Personal Challenges: Isaac's personal journey takes a poignant turn as we delve into his battle with Lupus, a condition that led to kidney failure. A decade ago, his wife's selfless act of love not only saved his life but strengthened their bond as she became his kidney donor. 3. Living A Selfless Life: Explore Isaac's philosophy on living a life in service of others. Learn how through being a husband and father, Isaac has learned to put the needs of others above his own and how this philosophy holds the key to happiness. 4. Ancient Mysteries and Beyond: In a fascinating turn, Isaac and our host delve into his interests in prediluvian civilizations. The conversation takes an intriguing twist as they explore historical extra-biblical texts such as the book of Enoch and Jasher. Uncover the hidden stories and mysteries that have captivated Isaac's imagination. Join us for an episode filled with empathy, resilience, and a deep dive into ancient mysteries with Isaac Sirk on The Local Insider.