Naturally Curious: Restoring Community with Isabel Thornton

Naturally Curious: Restoring Community with Isabel Thornton

On this episode of Naturally Curious, host Bruce C. Bryan sits down with Isabel Thornton, the executive director of Restoration Housing, to discuss the intersection of historic preservation and the affordable housing crisis. They explore the creative mechanics of transforming blighted, boarded-up properties into high-quality rental units, emphasizing how tools like historic tax credits can breathe new life into communities affected by industrial loss. The conversation shifts to a major milestone for the organization: the adaptive reuse of an old Methodist church into Trinity Commons, a 15-unit independent living space specifically designed to help local seniors age in place. Thornton also shares her perspective on intentional organizational growth, the importance of cultivating a strict work-life balance for working mothers, and how the power of a single restoration project can ripplingly uplift an entire neighborhood.

Naturally Curious: Raising Rainbows in the West End with Karen Pillis

On this episode of Naturally Curious, host Bruce C. Bryan sits down with Karen Pillis, the executive director of the West End Center for Youth, Inc., to explore how a grassroots neighborhood program from the late 1970s evolved into a vital community anchor. They discuss the realities of post-pandemic childhood, discussing how local educators and nonprofits are teaming up to tackle unique modern hurdles like virtual learning gaps and the social demands of the internet age. From afternoon pool trips and community-wide movie walks to a high school internship program that empowers the next generation of professionals, this conversation reveals the deep magic that happens when a community invests fully in its children. It is an inspiring look at local legacy, the profound power of cross-sector partnerships, and why the future of the region is much brighter than the headlines might lead you to believe.

Naturally Curious: Topographically Blessed (and Challenged) with Julia Boas

This week on Naturally Curious, host Bruce Bryan sits down with Julia Boas from the Roanoke Regional Partnership to uncover why the greater Roanoke area is becoming such a massive magnet for outside companies, capital, and top-tier talent. From global manufacturing growth and the booming "placemaking" movement to the secret weapon of the regional outdoors, Julia breaks down the sustainable growth driving the region forward. We'll also talk about how local "talent ambassadors" are organically welcoming newcomers, what lifelong residents really think about the shifting landscape, and how the area overcomes its unique mountain geography to compete on a national stage. It’s a fascinating look at the economic fortunes and community spirit shaping our region....and why visitors so often find themselves deciding to stay.

Naturally Curious: Building a Winning Culture with Coach Emilee Dunton

For the first time in nearly forty five years, Hollins University women's basketball has secured a winning record in the NCAA era. Coach Emilee Dunton joins Naturally Curious to discuss the relentless, loyal, and passionate mindset required to turn a program around after a decade of dedicated building. From growing up in a Division I household to navigating the unique dynamic of having her own father as an assistant coach, she shares how her experience as a point guard shaped her holistic approach to leadership. We explore her strategy of keeping a smaller, more focused roster of twelve players to ensure clear communication and high expectations. Coach Dunton also provides an honest look at balancing the high stakes of head coaching and recruiting with her newest role as a mother to her nine month old son. This conversation offers deep insights into shifting a team culture toward sustained excellence and creating a home court advantage that rivals the best in the conference.

Naturally Curious: Charlie Counts - Meeting Your Local Fishmonger

In this episode of Naturally Curious, Bruce C. Bryan sits down with Charlie Counts of Local Seafood Delivery to explore the winding journey of a modern fishmonger. Growing up on a tobacco and cattle farm in Southwest Virginia, Charlie’s career took a sharp turn from Black Angus beef to the docks of North Carolina after a single lightbulb moment during a family vacation. The conversation explores the reality of eleven-hour weekly commutes, the intensity of vying for the best catch at the docks, and why he chooses to drive the extra mile to maintain deep-rooted relationships with his coastal suppliers.       The episode also highlights the unique culture of local farmers markets, where Charlie has become a staple for seafood lovers from Roanoke to Blacksburg. Listeners will hear about the "hogfish" craze, the importance of sustainable United States fisheries, and even a few stories from the road involving hitchhikers and the pursuit of the perfect taco. It’s a look at what's required to bring the coast to the mountains, proving that for this "fish guy," the business is truly all about the people and the fellowship of a fresh meal.