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In this episode of Naturally Curious, we sit down with Xavier Duckett—photographer, mentor, and founder of The Humble Hustle Company, a Roanoke-based nonprofit built on a simple but powerful idea: Keep Giving. What began as a grassroots T‑shirt project has grown into a creative hub supporting Black youth, connecting diverse communities, and redefining what it means to give back with intention.Xavier shares how he left his 9‑to‑5 to pursue his vision full‑time, why a missing “U” in Hmble Hstle carries a message of purpose, and how a clothing line evolved into a community space that blends art, entrepreneurship, and service. His story is one of risk, reinvention, and relentless generosity—and a reminder that sometimes the boldest step is choosing to bet on yourself.

Two powerful onstage stories and interviews: Courtney Downs shares her harrowing journey from addiction and homelessness to long-term recovery, family reunification, and advocacy work in harm reduction.Chad Hutchinson delivers a larger-than-life tribute to his friend Jack—a Texas-born, unforgettable character whose loyalty and humor shaped a community. Together these pieces celebrate resilience, friendship, and the redemptive power of storytelling.

In this episode of Naturally Curious, host Bruce C. Bryan sits down with Virginia’s senior senator, Mark Warner, for an in-depth conversation that moves beyond the typical political headlines. Senator Warner reflects on his unconventional path from a struggling entrepreneur in the early days of the cellular industry to serving as the Governor of the Commonwealth and eventually a United States Senator. The discussion offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at leadership on Capitol Hill, exploring the Senator’s commitment to bipartisanship and the value he places on building personal relationships to drive policy forward. From the serious challenges of navigating artificial intelligence to lighter moments—including his infamous COVID-era tuna fish sandwich video—this interview highlights the intellectual curiosity and human side of one of Virginia’s most prominent leaders.

A Little Day Music host Luke Currie speaks with Prof. Jake Hertzog about his upcoming Roanoke performance.

The Food Evangelist: John Park on the Virginia Culinary SceneWhat does it take to become the most influential "Food Evangelist" on the East Coast? This week on Naturally Curious, we sit down with the man behind the lens and the menu: John Park, known to his tens of thousands of followers as The Hungry Asian. John isn’t just eating and drinking his way through the region; he is actively connecting, photographing, and consulting with the major chefs and food leaders who are shaping the industry today.In this conversation, we explore the current state of the Virginia food scene and how John’s unique approach to dining out has created a literal frenzy in the business. With over 17,000 followers on Instagram and 6,000 on Facebook, John shares how he manages his massive digital community and what he looks for when he steps into a new restaurant. We also get a few exclusive "in the know" tips from John about the best-kept secrets in the state's food and drink world. Whether you are a dedicated foodie or just curious about the power of digital influence, this episode is a deep dive into the passion and hustle of the man known as The Hungry Asian.Find John Park: Search for "The Hungry Asian" on Instagram, Facebook, and all major social media channels to follow his latest culinary adventures.

This episode of Hoot and Holler Radio features 16-year-old Mason Bibby sharing how the pandemic pushed him inward and ultimately helped him find his voice as a writer, leader, and orator while transforming self-doubt into public confidence and a deep sense of patriotism.Then we hear Tyler Crouch’s moving account of family, duty, and the Marine Corps, followed by studio interviews that reflect on hope, service, and personal growth.

This week on Naturally Curious, host Bruce C. Bryan sits down with Sam Calhoun, the Chief Operating Officer of Across the Way Productions and a driving force behind the legendary FloydFest.As the "man behind the scenes," Sam discusses the intricate art of Placemaking—the philosophy of transforming a physical space into a community-driven destination. Whether it’s the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains or a downtown stage, Sam shares how live music acts as a catalyst for bringing people together.

Two storytellers take the Grandin stage: Anastasia Giffin hilariously traces her Greek roots and Joe Mylan Jr. recounts his leap to become a writer in Seoul. Host Lee Hunsaker sits down with the tellers for candid post-show interviews about identity, craft, and the messy, beautiful work of telling your story.

For the first time in nearly forty five years, Hollins University women's basketball has secured a winning record in the NCAA era. Coach Emilee Dunton joins the show to discuss the relentless, loyal, and passionate mindset required to turn a program around after a decade of dedicated building. From growing up in a Division I household to navigating the unique dynamic of having her own father as an assistant coach, she shares how her experience as a point guard shaped her holistic approach to leadership. We explore her strategy of keeping a smaller, more focused roster of twelve players to ensure clear communication and high expectations. Coach Dunton also provides an honest look at balancing the high stakes of head coaching and recruiting with her newest role as a mother to her nine month old son. This conversation offers deep insights into shifting a team culture toward sustained excellence and creating a home court advantage that rivals the best in the conference.

Two powerful true stories from Hoot and Holler Radio: Curtis Alderson donates part of his liver to save a childhood friend and reflects on faith, service, and a renewed purpose, while Erika Johnson travels to Mexico for intense shamanic healing with 5‑MeO‑DMT and peyote, confronting deep fears and the challenge of integration.This episode explores courage, healing, and the unexpected ways love and how psychedelic medicine can change lives.