"if you stay active, if you stay engaged in your life and you're serving a larger cause, like for me, helping other people to find the courage and the energy to reinvent themselves and go back to their childhood, which is what I've done with myself."

– David Nelson

What does it look like to reinvent yourself at 71? For David Nelson, it starts with a pickleball paddle and a whole lot of intentional joy.

David is a wellness expert, motivational speaker, and founder of AHA University — and he'll be the first to tell you he's also the CEO of Fun. In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, he sits down with Randy Wilburn to talk about what happens when you stop treating age as a ceiling and start treating it as a starting line.

After a running injury forced him to find a new outlet, David discovered pickleball — and what began as physical therapy quickly became something much bigger. He's now using the sport as a bridge between generations, cultures, and communities, proving that a simple game can open doors that might otherwise stay closed.

This is a conversation about reinvention, the underrated power of play, and why Northwest Arkansas keeps showing up as the kind of place where people — and possibilities — flourish. No matter where you are in life, David's story might just be the nudge you didn't know you needed.

Key Takeaways:

1. Reinvention Has No Age Limit: You can start something new, find purpose, and build community no matter how old you are.
2. Pickleball as a Gateway: Pickleball brings people of all ages together and helps build coordination, connection, and confidence.
3. The Power of Play: Play is not just for kids—adults and seniors need it for mental and physical health.
4. Active, Healthy Aging: Staying active makes a difference, even if it’s just walking or playing with friends.
5. Importance of Family & Community: Northwest Arkansas is a place where family matters, and there are many ways to connect with others.
6. Storytelling & Legacy: Sharing your story and listening to others can inspire, heal, and help you find your real voice and values.
7. Consistency Matters: Small steps and gradual improvement add up over time.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

1. Aha.University
2. David Nelson on LinkedIn
3. FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its...

"We are a Victorian house burdened by optimism."

– Cognac Franklin

What happens when historic charm collides with a new vision for community connection?

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Cognac Franklin, Director of Operations at Stonebreaker—Fayetteville's stunning hotel, club, and gathering space perched atop Markham Hill.

Cognac takes us through the rich history of this unique property, from its origins as the Pratt family homestead and bed & breakfast to its recent transformation into a community-centered haven that honors the past while embracing the future.

You'll hear about Stonebreaker's distinctive approach to hospitality, membership, and intentional design—where every guest is treated like family, whether they're checking in for the night, enjoying club membership perks, or simply stopping by for a quiet cup of coffee.

Discover how Stonebreaker is creating a true "third space" for the community—a place for relaxing, collaborating, celebrating, or finding a moment of tranquility at one of Fayetteville's highest points.

Whether you're new to Northwest Arkansas or a lifelong local, this conversation illuminates how connecting to place and purpose brings people together in meaningful ways.

Key Takeaways:

1. Blending History and Modern Hospitality: Stonebreaker honors Markham Hill’s heritage, integrating touches from its farm, summer camp, and music festival past into a contemporary, welcoming environment.
2. Community, Not Exclusivity: Despite being a private club, Stonebreaker’s mission is rooted in inclusivity—emphasizing a social, open-door approach for locals and newcomers alike.
3. Building a Unique “Third Space”: Stonebreaker offers more than just a hotel or restaurant. It’s intentionally designed for collaboration, creativity, relaxation, and connection as Fayetteville grows and evolves.
4. Intentional Design & Thoughtful Experiences: Every element, from the hotel rooms to the club amenities and the grounds, is curated to spark conversation, learning, and belonging.
5. Membership with a Purpose: Club members play a direct role in shaping the community and experiences at Stonebreaker, ensuring it remains responsive and meaningful for Northwest Arkansas residents.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

1. Stonebreaker Hotel and Restaurant Fayetteville | stonebreakerhotel.com
2. Stonebreaker on LinkedIn
3. Stonebreaker on Facebook