What's Next?

Hosted by Kindred Digital Podcasts

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May 2026

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About the show

What’s Next? is a podcast from Kindred Communications where host Reeves Kirtner sits down with the people making things happen in our region—in business, events, and in the community. There are so many positive things happening right now, and this show is about the people behind it: their stories, the lessons they’ve learned, and where they’re headed next. Each episode features real, unscripted conversations with business owners, festival organizers, community leaders, and others. We dig into how they got started, the challenges they’ve faced, and what it really takes to build something that lasts

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60 recent

May 21, 2026Episode 746 min

Inside Nate Randolph's HÜCK Food & Spirits and Huntington’s First Distillery

On this episode of What’s Next?, Reeves Kirtner sits down with Nate Randolph, the founder of HÜCK Food & Spirits, Harvest Hall, and the upcoming NJ Randolph Distilling in Huntington. With a background in architecture and design, Nate personally handled much of the construction of the space, created the menu and recipes himself, and developed the spirits that will eventually be produced at Huntington’s first distillery. The conversation covers where the idea for the restaurant and distillery came from, why Nate chose his location on 4th Avenue, the challenges of opening a restaurant and distillery from the ground up, and the response from the community since opening. Nate also shares the story behind his passion for distilling and what customers can expect moving forward.

April 27, 2026Episode 68 min

9th Street Live

In this episode of What’s Next, Reeves unveils the full lineup for the summer edition of 9th Street Live. The popular downtown concert series returns Friday, May 22, kicking things off with Joslyn and the Sweet Compression, setting the tone for another great summer of live music, good community vibes and unforgettable summer nights.

March 12, 2026Episode 549 min

Huntington’s Foundry Theater and the Return of the Appalachian Film Festival

In this episode, Reeves talks with Rachel Catherine Allinder from the Foundry Theater about the growing arts scene in Huntington and the vision behind the city’s unique performance venue located inside City Hall.They discuss how the theater came to life, the types of events now happening there, and how it’s helping support artists, performers, and audiences across the Tri-State region.Rachel also shares details about the return of the Appalachian Film Festival, a celebration of filmmakers and stories from across Appalachia. Learn what makes a film “Appalachian,” what audiences can expect at the festival, and why events like this matter for the region’s creative future.

February 26, 2026Episode 439 min

Who Is Alligator Jackson?

If you live in Huntington, you’ve probably seen the posts.From breaking news and community debates to restaurant updates and local happenings, Alligator Jackson’s Inside Huntington has become one of the most visited Facebook pages in town — now closing in on 60,000 followers.But who is the person behind the page?In this episode of What’s Next?, Reeves Kirtner sits down with the man known as Alligator Jackson to talk about where the name came from, what inspired him to start the page, and when he realized it was starting to take off.They discuss the praise, the criticism, and what it’s really like running a platform with that much engagement in a city the size of Huntington.Is he stirring the pot? Or simply creating a space where conversations were already happening?There’s a story behind the posts and behind the name. In this episode, we go beyond the comment section and meet the person who built it.Chomp on.

February 12, 2026Episode 335 min

10 Years of Funk: Parry Casto & Funkle Sam’s Funktafest

On this episode of What’s Next?, Reeves Kirtner sits down with Parry Casto, aka "Funkle Sam," founder of Huntington’s Funktafest and lead singer of The MFB. What began as an idea to bring more groove-driven music to the region has grown into a signature fall tradition at Ritter Park. Now celebrating its 10th edition and a two-day event, Funktafest continues to build momentum in Huntington. Parry shares the origin story of the event, the early conversations that helped bring it to life, and the challenges behind producing and growing a live festival. They discuss what it takes to book talent, build community support, manage risk, and decide when it’s time to go bigger.

January 29, 2026Episode 248 min

Jason Beter: From Restaurants and Records to Breweries and Block Parties

In this episode of What’s Next?, Reeves Kirtner sits down with Barboursville entrepreneur Jason Beter, the creative force behind Oscar’s Breakfast, Burgers and Brews, 1861 Public House, Koerber Beer Company, and Orbit’s Record Shop.We dive into his journey as a business owner, explore what it takes to grow multiple ventures, and hear how he’s creating experiences that keep people coming back. Plus, we find out what’s next for Jason — from new restaurant partnerships to exciting community projects.Make sure to listen for the disclaimer at the end for the latest Beter venture!

January 15, 2026Episode 150 min

The Comeback of the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center

On the first episode of What’s Next?, Reeves Kirtner sits down with the leadership of the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center to talk about the restoration of one of our region’s most iconic landmarks. The nearly 100-year-old theater has undergone a $30 million renovation, bringing new life to a historic space while preserving its character and legacy.In this conversation, we dig into the history of the Keith-Albee, what it took to bring a project of this size to reality, the challenges along the way, and what’s next for the crown jewel of downtown Huntington. It’s a story about preservation, community investment, and believing in what’s possible.

January 9, 20261 min

Introducing What's Next?

November 21, 20241 hr 29 min

Leading Huntington - Mayor Steve Williams

Note: In Your Business is now What’s Next? We’ve refreshed the name, but the conversations you love are still here. These bonus episodes were originally released under In Your Business and remain part of our archive. In this special episode of In Your Business, host Reeves Kirtner sits down with Huntington’s outgoing mayor, Steve Williams, as he concludes his final term in office. Over the past several years, Huntington has undergone significant transformation, and this conversation dives deep into the leadership and vision that made it possible. From revitalizing downtown Huntington to fostering economic development and spearheading major infrastructure projects, Mayor Williams reflects on the challenges, successes, and lessons learned along the way. They discuss the impact of public-private partnerships, the evolution of the city’s business landscape, and the lasting legacy of his time in office. As Mayor Williams reflects on his proudest accomplishments and shares his vision for Huntington’s future, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into what it takes to lead a city through change and growth.

November 14, 202422 min

Advertising on a Budget - Bullseye Total Media

Note: In Your Business is now What’s Next? We’ve refreshed the name, but the conversations you love are still here. These bonus episodes were originally released under In Your Business and remain part of our archive. In this episode of In Your Business, we’re talking about how small businesses can achieve big results with a small advertising budget. Advertising doesn’t have to be expensive—it just takes a strategic approach. Joining us is Amy Frasure, owner of Bullseye Total Media, who specializes in helping businesses grow by maximizing every dollar they spend on marketing.Amy shares creative and affordable advertising strategies, from leveraging cost-effective digital tools to using smart targeting techniques that make each campaign count. Whether you’re a small business owner just getting started with advertising or looking to stretch your budget even further, this episode is full of actionable tips to help you reach your goals without overspending.