The Bentonville Beacon

Hosted by Bentonville Economic Development | Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce

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Episodes

137

Latest episode

Oct 2025

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About the show

https://bentonvillearea.com/ On the Bentonville Beacon podcast, host James Bell brings you stories from the entrepreneurs, business executives and community leaders who are sparking the rise of the Greater Bentonville area. You'll hear how one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic cities and economies in the United States helps businesses grow and helps people live their best lives. Tune in, subscribe, and get excited to embrace Greater Bentonville with us!

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October 9, 2025Episode 13631 min

Creating Art Through Cocktails: Izaak Barrett on Callisto's Unique Hospitality Vision

SummaryWelcome to another episode of The Bentonville Beacon, the podcast where we shine a light on the inspiring stories and innovative people shaping the economic and cultural landscape of Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas. In this episode, host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with Izaak Barrett, co-creator and director of operations at Oasis Hospitality Group and its concept Calllisto—a vibrant new speakeasy that’s quickly becoming Bentonville’s “worst kept secret.”Izaak shares the journey that led him from Phoenix to Bentonville, teaming up with his family to realize a longtime dream of building an immersive hospitality experience unlike any other in the area. Dive into the story behind Callisto's unique blend of art, craft cocktails, and tropical vibes, all tucked discreetly behind an art gallery. Izaak reveals the intentional design choices, the importance of place and community, and the ways in which Callisto is not just a place to grab a drink, but an artful escape built for genuine connection.Whether you’re a local looking for your next great night out, a visitor curious about Bentonville’s creative energy, or someone passionate about hospitality, this conversation will transport you into the heart of one of the city’s most innovative new destinations. Get ready to discover how thoughtful creativity and a love for community are redefining what hospitality means in Bentonville!LinksBrandom GengelbachGreater Bentonville Area Chamber of CommerceIzaak BarrettOasis Hospitality GroupCallisto

September 4, 2025Episode 13557 min

Cultivating Community Through Farm-to-Table Dining with Chef Matt Cooper and Paul Esterer

Welcome to another episode of the Bentonville Beacon podcast! Today, our host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with two of Northwest Arkansas’s most influential changemakers: Chef Matt Cooper, acclaimed owner of Wren Hospitality and Conifer, and visionary real estate developer and restaurateur Paul Esterer. In this inspiring conversation, we dig into what makes Bentonville and the entire NWA region such an energizing place to live, create, and innovate.Matt and Paul share their personal stories of calling Bentonville home and reveal the intentional, values-driven decisions behind their work, including the launch of their latest venture, Wren, a farm-to-table tasting menu restaurant rooted in community, sustainability, and a true sense of place. We explore the evolution of Bentonville’s culinary scene, from humble beginnings to national recognition, what it means to be a James Beard Award finalist, and why the town’s authentic, curious, and wellness-focused spirit is attracting people from across the country.Tune in as we celebrate the people, passion, and purpose behind Bentonville’s growth, and discover how local champions like Matt and Paul are redefining hospitality, building enduring community connections, and helping shape the region's bright future!

August 21, 2025Episode 13436 min

Why Bentonville is a Hotspot for Retail and Startup Innovation with James Harris

Welcome back to the Bentonville Beacon podcast! In this episode, host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with James Harris, president and CEO of High Impact Analytics, to dive deep into the dynamic evolution of Bentonville’s retail landscape. As the hometown of Walmart and an epicenter for retail innovation, Bentonville is more than just a hub for the world’s largest retailer, it’s a thriving community where entrepreneurial spirit, tech startups, and third-party services are driving real transformation.James shares his journey from growing up in nearby Siloam Springs to launching his own analytics-driven brokerage, High Impact, right at the forefront of retail’s data revolution. Together, Brandom and James unpack how the region’s unique blend of resources, talent, and entrepreneurial energy is fueling not just new business models, but also groundbreaking collaborations and growth in the consumer packaged goods space.Tune in to hear how the rise of private brands, omni-channel commerce, and tech-enabled partnerships are reshaping Northwest Arkansas, and why it’s never been a better time to be part of Bentonville’s vibrant business community. Whether you’re a startup founder, an established supplier, or just curious about the future of retail, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and insights in this conversation with one of the region’s true innovators!

August 7, 2025Episode 13340 min

Sparking Curiosity and Creativity: Inside the Scott Family Amazeum with Holland Hayden

Welcome to another episode of the Bentonville Beacon! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on one of Bentonville’s most vibrant and imaginative destinations: the Scott Family Amazeum. Host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with Holland Hayden, Sr. Marketing and Communications Manager at The Amazeum, to uncover how this hands-on museum is so much more than a place for kids. it's a catalyst for creativity, innovation, and economic development in Northwest Arkansas.As the community grows by thirty-six people a day, Holland shares how The Amazeum is keeping pace by inspiring the next generation of thinkers, makers, and leaders through dynamic exhibits, outreach programs, and partnerships that foster lifelong learning. You’ll hear stories about their YouthMaker program, the ever-popular Tinkerfest, exciting new expansions, and even some behind-the-scenes fun that makes working at The Amazeum a unique experience.Whether you’re a Bentonville local, new to the area, or just curious about how destinations like The Amazeum are fueling both imaginations and the economy, this episode is packed with insight, energy, and a few laughs. So join us as we discover why The Amazeum isn’t just shaping young minds, it’s helping to shape the future of Bentonville itself!*Episode Correction: The Amazeum sees twenty-five thousand kids a year with its Unfield Trip program, with over two hundred kids being served so far with the Unfield Trips!

July 24, 2025Episode 13253 min

NWACC’s Bold Vision for Workforce and Community in Northwest Arkansas

Welcome to another episode of The Bentonville Beacon podcast! Today, host Brandom Gengelbach, President of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, sits down with two dynamic leaders from Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC): Dr. Dennis Rittle, President of NWACC, and Starlinda Sanders, Associate Vice President of Workforce. As the Bentonville and greater Northwest Arkansas region continues to experience incredible growth, gaining thirty-six residents a day, the conversation explores how NWACC is playing a transformative role in workforce development and preparing the next generation for success.In this episode, you'll hear compelling stories about NWACC’s history, its mission as a true “community college,” and its bold new campus master plan set to reshape the student and community experience for decades to come. Dr. Rittle and Starlinda dive deep into the innovative programs and partnerships that are aligning education with local industry needs—from the celebrated Certified Retail Analyst program to new initiatives in healthcare, hospitality, micro-credentialing, and more.You'll also get an inside look at what makes the region and NWACC so unique, including the collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial energy, and shared vision between education, employers, and the broader community. Whether you’re a business leader, a prospective student, or simply passionate about the future of Bentonville, this episode is packed with valuable insights and the contagious optimism driving Northwest Arkansas forward.Tune in for an inspiring look at how NWACC is meeting the moment and helping Bentonville continue to earn its reputation as the “Unicorn City”!

July 10, 2025Episode 13149 min

Behind the Scenes of Bentonville's Retail Innovation Week with Josh Stanley

Welcome to another episode of the Bentonville Beacon podcast! This week, host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with local entrepreneur and innovation leader Josh Stanley for an engaging look at the heartbeat of Bentonville’s economy: retail and retail innovation. Josh, who has built his career at the crossroads of e-commerce, technology, and entrepreneurship—including stints at Zappos and founding his own companies—shares his fascinating journey from the tech world of Las Vegas to building startups in Northwest Arkansas.Together, Brandom and Josh dive into the importance of the retail value chain, the unique opportunities Bentonville offers for startups and established brands alike, and how the region is positioning itself as the “Retail Value Chain Capital of the World.” They also discuss the highly anticipated Retail Innovation Week and Embark Summit coming this September, designed to bring together industry leaders, emerging brands, and entrepreneurs to spark connections and drive growth.Whether you’re interested in economic development, the startup scene, or just want to hear inspiring stories from people shaping Bentonville’s future, this episode offers practical insights, candid reflections, and a look at how collaboration and innovation are fueling the next chapter for the region. Don’t miss it!

June 26, 2025Episode 13053 min

Unlocking Innovation in Supply Chain and Logistics with Dean Williams

Welcome to another episode of The Bentonville Beacon Podcast, where we shine a light on the stories and people driving economic growth and innovation in Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas. In this episode, host Brandom Gengelbach, president of the Bentonville Area Chamber, sits down with Dr. Brent Williams, Dean of the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas.Together, they dive into the region’s dynamic role as a national and international hub for supply chain and logistics—a thriving industry that not only keeps goods moving but also fuels local opportunity and entrepreneurship. You’ll hear how the Walton College has become a leader in supply chain management education, the importance of strong partnerships between academia and industry, and why Northwest Arkansas stands out as a hotbed for innovation and workforce development.Dean Williams shares insights into his own journey, the evolution of supply chain as a discipline, and the role research, internships, and innovative programs like the McMillon Innovation Studio play in preparing future business leaders. Whether you’re curious about supply chain, business education, or the forces shaping Bentonville’s economic landscape, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways!

June 12, 2025Episode 1291 hr 3 min

Inside Bentonville’s Cycling Culture and Community Spirit with Jessica Pearson & Zach Springer

Welcome to another episode of the Bentonville Beacon podcast, where we shine a light on the stories and people fueling Bentonville’s incredible growth and thriving community spirit. In this episode, host Brandon Gengelbach, President and CEO of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, sits down with two game-changers in Bentonville’s mobility and cycling scene: Jessica Pearson of the Bentonville Moves Coalition and Zach Springer, founder of Gnargo Bike Co.Jessica and Zach share their personal journeys and the evolution of Bentonville’s cycling culture—from its roots as a recreation and mountain biking hub to a forward-thinking city that’s now embracing active transportation and infrastructure for everyone. You’ll hear how investment in trails, greenways, and bike infrastructure has transformed the way both longtime residents and newcomers experience Bentonville, making it more livable, connected, and inclusive.The conversation dives into how the community came together following a devastating tornado, with volunteers rallying to restore the city’s trails and greenways, and how this moment of recovery sparked even deeper connections and cross-pollination among Bentonville’s diverse cycling communities. Plus, you'll discover exciting new local initiatives, like accessible pedicabs designed and built right here, that keep Bentonville at the forefront of mobility innovation.Tune in and be inspired by the passion, grit, and creativity fueling Bentonville’s transformation into one of the most bike-friendly and resilient communities in America!

May 29, 2025Episode 12848 min

Keeping Bentonville’s Charm and Community Spirit Alive with Aaron Nolan

Welcome back to The Bentonville Beacon podcast! In this episode, host Brandom Gengelbach, President of the Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, and guest Aaron Nolan, Media and Corporate Relations Director for Downtown Bentonville Inc., dive into what makes Bentonville’s community so special—and how that charm is being preserved amid rapid growth. You’ll hear Aaron’s journey from Arkansas newsrooms to Chicago's network scene and back home to Bentonville, where he now helps create iconic events like First Friday and the record-breaking Bentonville Farmers Market. Brandom and Aaron discuss the economic impact of these local festivities, the importance of authenticity and family-friendly traditions, and how Downtown Bentonville Inc. is intentionally fostering a sense of belonging for both long-time locals and newcomers alike. Plus, you’ll get behind-the-scenes insights into programming, the origins of the Emmy-nominated Downtown Now TV show, and a sneak peek at upcoming events aimed at celebrating Bentonville’s dynamic, growing, and ever-inclusive community.

May 15, 2025Episode 1271 hr 2 min

Attracting and Retaining Talent in Education and Community with Dr. Debbie Jones

Welcome to another episode of The Bentonville Beacon! In this eye-opening conversation, host Brandom Gengelbach sits down with Dr. Debbie Jones, Superintendent of Bentonville Schools, to explore the school district’s critical role as one of the region’s largest employers—beyond just educating students. Dr. Jones shares her journey from aspiring truck driver to education leader and dives deep into the pressing challenges of attracting and retaining top talent—issues that resonate across the entire business community. From developing a strong district culture to tackling real-world obstacles like affordable housing and childcare, Bentonville Schools is actively innovating to create an environment where teachers and staff can thrive.You’ll hear how the district is pioneering solutions in partnership with local organizations, providing staff childcare, and even spearheading new affordable housing projects for educators. Plus, Dr. Jones talks about the district’s efforts to transform under-enrolled city schools with parent choice models, competitive programming, and unique partnerships connecting students to real-world opportunities through the Ignite program.This episode is full of practical insights and forward-thinking strategies for anyone interested in talent attraction, workforce development, and building a vibrant local economy—whether you’re in education, business, or community leadership. Tune in and discover how Bentonville is setting a new standard for what a school district can do!