Épisodes

  • Building Community Through Service: A Conversation with Christian Thompson

    Building Community Through Service: A Conversation with Christian Thompson
    Feb 6 2026
    Meet Christian Thompson, candidate for Arkansas State Representative District 52, who shares his journey from small-town roots to public service. In this candid conversation, Christian discusses the challenges facing rural Arkansas communities, from healthcare access to economic opportunities. He opens up about his personal story of growing up with limited means, the values instilled by his grandfather, and how those experiences shape his vision for serving his community. Thompson emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership, staying connected to constituents, and making politics accessible to everyday people. The conversation touches on everything from local development and voter engagement to balancing family life with public service, offering a refreshing perspective on grassroots politics.
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    44 min
  • From Eviction Nightmares to Airbnb GOLD!

    From Eviction Nightmares to Airbnb GOLD!
    Feb 5 2026
    Ever wonder how successful real estate investors really build their wealth? This candid roundtable discussion pulls back the curtain on the strategies, mistakes, and hard-won lessons from a group of Arkansas real estate investors and construction professionals who've been meeting monthly for over two years. Join host Obee from Eleva as he sits down with seasoned contractors and investors including Juan from HJR Construction, Randy with Wooten Customs, and Jonathan Fontes from Diamond Ridge Construction. These aren't your typical investment gurus – they're local entrepreneurs actively building portfolios while running construction businesses, offering real-world insights you won't find in textbooks. The conversation covers the evolution of their Real Estate Roundtable meetings, which started with insurance agent Billy and has grown into a thriving community resource. You'll hear detailed discussions about property management challenges, including a particularly eye-opening story about a multi-month eviction nightmare that could have been solved with a simple cash-for-keys offer. The group explores whether property management companies are worth the 8% fee (spoiler: they think so, especially for newer investors), and why being "too nice" can cost you thousands. Featured guest Esmeralda Rubio, CPA and owner of Rubio Tax Accounting, will be the keynote speaker at their upcoming February 12th meeting at Russellville Country Club, where she'll reveal tax-saving strategies used by wealthy investors. The discussion also dives deep into Airbnb success stories, equity leveraging techniques, and the psychology of real estate addiction – why one property inevitably leads to building an entire portfolio. From construction insights to 1031 exchanges, tenant screening red flags to building generational wealth, this episode delivers practical wisdom from investors who've made every mistake so you don't have to. Whether you're considering your first rental property or scaling an existing portfolio, you'll walk away with actionable strategies and a clear understanding of what really works in today's market.
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    34 min
  • From Fear to Impact: The Conversation Every Entrepreneur Needs to Hear

    From Fear to Impact: The Conversation Every Entrepreneur Needs to Hear
    Jan 1 2026
    In this episode of Eleva Podcast, we sit down with Chris Abington at the Co-Create Innovation Hub for a powerful, honest, and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, fear, entrepreneurship, community, and purpose. Over amazing food from **Arkansas Sweet Spot**, we dive into what it really takes to build something meaningful—from understanding who you are as a leader, facing fear head-on, and creating space for others to thrive. Chris shares personal insights on building teams, raising kids, staying grounded, and why *community collaboration* is the key to long-term success. This episode isn’t just about business—it’s about **identity, growth, and believing in your city**. If you’ve ever asked yourself *“What if I fail?”* or *“Can something great really happen here?”*—this conversation is for you. 💡 Topics include: * Leadership & self-awareness * Overcoming fear and failure * Entrepreneurship & innovation * Community growth in the River Valley * Raising the next generation with purpose 📍 Filmed at the **Co-Create Innovation Hub** 🍽️ Food provided by **Arkansas Sweet Spot** 🎙️ Part of **Eleva | Town Square Studio** 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations that elevate people and communities.
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    48 min
  • De Amigos a Dueños de Restaurante 🌮🔥 La Historia Real Detrás de Toros Mexican Grill

    De Amigos a Dueños de Restaurante 🌮🔥 La Historia Real Detrás de Toros Mexican Grill
    Dec 18 2025
    En este episodio nos sentamos con los dueños de Toros Mexican Grill, quienes nos comparten su historia, su trayectoria y su experiencia en el mundo culinario de la comida mexicana. Tres amigos que unieron sus ideas, su pasión y su esfuerzo para hacer realidad el sueño de abrir su propio restaurante. Hablamos de retos, aprendizajes, amistad y esperanza, todo detrás de los fogones y el sabor auténtico que los representa. Un episodio lleno de emoción y motivación para cualquiera que sueña con emprender. Gracias por su apoyo de siempre. ¡No se lo pierdan!
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    48 min
  • Two Brothers. One Vision. How the Junk Hawg Twins Bet on Themselves

    Two Brothers. One Vision. How the Junk Hawg Twins Bet on Themselves
    Dec 18 2025
    We had the opportunity to sit down with the Junk Hawgs Twins, incredible young entrepreneurs who shared their journey of hard work, dedication, and the courage it took to branch out on their own to pursue their dreams. Join us as we dive into their story and get a glimpse into the mindset of these driven young entrepreneurs. Thank you for watching on Eleva and Town Square, and a special thank you to all of our sponsors and friends who help make this possible.
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    59 min
  • AirBNB, Branded Trucks & Italian Food!!!

    AirBNB, Branded Trucks & Italian Food!!!
    Nov 25 2025
    On this episode of Eleva, we sat down with Rubio Accounting Firm for an honest and insightful conversation—while enjoying the incredible Italian flavors from Venetian’s Restaurant. Randy Wooten and Jonathan Fontes joined the table, along with host Obee Rosales, to talk about life, business, strategy, and the importance of community. From real-world experiences to practical advice, this episode brings a mix of wisdom, laughter, and great food. Grab a seat at the table and enjoy this conversation powered by Eleva.
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    2 h et 6 min
  • Aventuras Arkansas y sus momentos delicados en Long Pool Arkansas!!!

    Aventuras Arkansas y sus momentos delicados en Long Pool Arkansas!!!
    Oct 29 2025
    Arely, Carmen, Joel Dominguez, Brandon Huerta, nos cuentan de lo sucedido en Long Pool. Perdimos una cámara y nos tardo subir el video, pero pues queríamos poner su historia por el canal, sigan sus aventuras por medio de su canal en Youtube y aposentos 👉https://www.youtube.com/@UCHSHFJHv_ErzvIe0-COCgsg
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    43 min
  • Mayor Fred Teague on Eleva with Obee Rosales

    Mayor Fred Teague on Eleva with Obee Rosales
    Oct 27 2025
    Talk with the Mayor | Russellville, AR Join us for real conversations with **Mayor Teague** as we talk about what’s happening in the city — from community updates to local projects and stories that matter. Honest dialogue, personal insights, and great company — all in one place. Stay connected, stay informed, and be part of the conversation. Thank you to Mexicatracha for the delicious food!!! Thanks to our collaborators who help us keep this going!!! Radio Accounting Firm Wooten Customs Jonathan Fontes
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    1 h et 8 min