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We’re kicking off Season 2 of The Dogtown Collective with a powerful conversation about connections, collaboration, and creativity in North Little Rock.
In this episode, we sit down with Derrell Hartwick, President of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, to explore how intentional networking opportunities within the Chamber are helping local entrepreneurs and small businesses grow stronger together.
We also dive into the community-led effort to Save The Hub—the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub in Argenta. After its closure at the end of 2025, business owners, makers, and residents, in partnership with the Chamber, have united around a shared vision: bringing this vital makerspace back to life.
From building meaningful professional relationships to reigniting a creative ecosystem, this conversation highlights what’s possible when people come together with purpose.
If you’re passionate about local business, innovation, and strengthening community through authentic connections, this episode is for you.
Tune in and be part of the movement shaping the future of Argenta and North Little Rock. If you would like to donate to Save The Hub, you can visit the following link.
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/relaunch-the-hub
#networking #northlittlerock #chamberofcommerce #nlr #argenta #innovation #makerspace #collaborate #cowork
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In this episode of The Dogtown Collective, we sit down with Kevin Newsom—radio DJ turned library storyteller—to explore the rhythm, history, and heart of North Little Rock.
From his early days behind the mic spinning records and shaping the sound of local radio, to years spent immersed in live music and concert culture, Kevin brings an insider’s perspective on the power of entertainment to connect communities.
Today, Kevin channels that same energy into his role with the North Little Rock Public Library System, where he has become a key voice in promoting events, highlighting local history, and bringing people together across Dogtown. With a passion for research and an impressive knowledge of North Little Rock’s past, Kevin blends creativity and curiosity to make the library a true hub for culture, learning, and community engagement.
Join us as we talk about:
*His journey from the radio booth to community programming
*The impact of live music on Dogtown’s identity
*How the library uses storytelling, events, and history to enrich North Little Rock
*The surprising gems he’s uncovered while researching local heritage
*Why public spaces like the library matter more now than everWhether you’re a fan of Arkansas history, a lover of music, or simply someone who cares about community, this conversation shines a spotlight on the people and passions shaping North Little Rock.
Tune in and discover how Kevin Newsom is helping bring the library—and the stories of Dogtown—to life.
#northlittlerock #history #storytelling #podcasting #dogtown #argenta #library #podcast
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Navigating healthcare doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — especially when you have the right guide. In this episode of The Dogtown Collective, we sit down with Taylor Ray, founder of Ray Way Insurance, to unpack the complexities of open enrollment, healthcare coverage options, and how to make confident choices when it comes to your insurance.
With a passion for serving and educating, Taylor is a Christian business owner whose mission is to light the way to better health coverage for individuals, families, and small businesses alike. Even if you already have healthcare, Taylor explains how a trusted consultant can help you review and compare your current plan, explore better options for the upcoming year, or find coverage that fits your needs after a major life change—like marriage, a new job, or starting a business.
Through her personalized approach, Taylor simplifies what many find confusing about healthcare and empowers her clients to make informed, cost-effective decisions. Her work at Ray Way Insurance reflects the power of supporting local businesses that prioritize community, integrity, and education over impersonal, one-size-fits-all solutions.
If you’ve ever felt unsure about your health insurance—or simply want to support a local entrepreneur who’s helping others navigate life’s biggest transitions—this episode will shine a light on how faith, service, and small business ownership can come together to make a meaningful difference.
To reach Taylor and get more information, visit linktr.ee/RayWayInsurance
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In this episode of The Dogtown Collaborative, hosts sit down with Chris Kent, Executive Director of the Argenta Downtown Council, to talk about the exciting growth of entertainment, live music, and community events in North Little Rock’s Argenta Arts District.
From the ever-popular Argenta Vibe Music Series to the one-of-a-kind Dogtown Throwdown street festival, Chris shares how these events are bringing people together, supporting local businesses, and shaping Argenta into one of Central Arkansas’s most vibrant destinations.
Listeners will also get to know Chris on a more personal level, exploring his background in community development and his passion for creating spaces where arts, culture, and local business can thrive.
Along the way, the conversation highlights how the Argenta Downtown Council collaborates with organizations, musicians, and business owners to keep Dogtown buzzing with activity and the development that's up and coming for downtown North Little Rock.
Whether you’re a local looking to plug into upcoming Argenta events, a business owner curious about community-driven growth, or simply someone who loves live music and neighborhood festivals, this episode offers an inside look at why Dogtown has become a hub for entertainment and connection in Central Arkansas.
Tune in and discover why now is the perfect time to throw down in Dogtown, but, if you missed the 2025 lineup, follow the events happening in Argenta by visiting the website for Argenta Arts District and social media.
Argenta Arts District – North Little Rock's blossoming, bustling, art-filled historic downtown district
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On this episode of The Dogtown Collective, Macey, Marla, and Brittany welcome a special guest—Allen Engstrom, CEO of the CFO Network and Argenta Commons. With deep roots in both business and community, Allen brings a unique perspective on what it takes to build and sustain success in North Little Rock, fondly known as Dogtown.
The conversation dives into the essentials of accounting and why financial clarity is a cornerstone for any thriving business. Allen shares practical insights from his experience leading CFO Network, offering advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to strengthen their operations and plan for long-term growth.
But this episode is about more than balance sheets and numbers—it’s about community. Together, the group reflects on the energy around Argenta, the growth of local businesses within the Argenta Commons, and the value of building connections within the neighborhood. From discussing leadership to highlighting their favorite spots around North Little Rock, this episode is full of both professional wisdom and personal stories that showcase why Dogtown is such a special place to live, work, and grow.
Whether you’re a business owner looking for guidance, a local wanting to celebrate the community, or simply curious about the people shaping North Little Rock, this episode offers inspiration, practical takeaways, and a whole lot of Dogtown pride.
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In this episode of The Dogtown Collective, we’re putting the spotlight on the one and only Macey—our co-host, friend, and the force of nature behind so much of what makes this crew (and our community) thrive.
As the Strategic Relations & Property Manager at Argenta Commons, Macey wears a lot of hats—real estate pro, event planner, problem-solver, and, let’s be honest, the one who keeps Marla and Brittany in line.
We talk about what it’s like managing some of Central Arkansas’s most unique corporate and creative spaces, how community connection drives everything Macey does, and the balance between business and personal passion.
This episode is packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights into how Macey brings organization, charm, and heart to every project she touches.
And if you’ve been wondering who the voice of branding behind the Collective is—stay tuned! Up next, we’ll be introducing our third co-host, Brittany: marketing consultant, promo products queen, and the creative strategist who knows how to make a lasting impression.
#partyplanner #eventspace #Argenta #Dogtown #collective #podcast #community #NorthLittleRock
www.argentacommons.com
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Welcome to the debut episode of The Dogtown Collective, a podcast born in the heart of Argenta, the vibrant downtown district of North Little Rock, Arkansas. In this kickoff conversation, co-hosts Brittany and Macey sit down with fellow co-host Marla, founder of PowerPro AI, to talk shop about entrepreneurship, AI automation, and the power of building a business rooted in community.
Whether you're a Central Arkansas professional, a small business owner, or just curious about the future of automation and tech in the workplace, this episode offers insight, real talk, and a little local flavor. We explore how Marla launched her startup, what it takes to thrive in today's business landscape, and why Dogtown — aka downtown North Little Rock — is the perfect place for collaboration, creativity, and growth.
Topics you’ll hear discusses in this and future episodes:
• North Little Rock business scene
• Argenta entrepreneurs
• AI tools for productivity
• Women in tech
• Local leadership & innovation
• Building community through businessThis is more than a podcast — it’s a collective. So, whether you're tuning in from a co-working space on Main Street or from your front porch with a coffee in hand, welcome to The Dogtown Collective.
Follow us for fresh conversations with local leaders, change-makers, and forward-thinkers putting North Little Rock on the map.
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We’re about to get started, and we’ve got so much in store — from real talk with local changemakers to deep dives into the tools, trends, and ideas shaping our community.
If you like what you hear, be sure to follow, subscribe, and share The Dogtown Collective with your crew.
Until next time — stay curious, stay connected, and stay collective.
#connect #podcast #dogtown #northlittlerock #Arkansas #supportlocal #tdc #storytelling
