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On this episode of Naturally Curious, host Bruce C. Bryan chats with Kevin Deck, a retired architect turned professional painter based in Roanoke, Virginia. After a 30-year career designing public schools and senior living facilities, Kevin transitioned his eye for detail from drafting blueprints to mastering American realism through watercolor. He shares how he overcame a lifelong fear of color by using his technical hand skills to capture the effects of time on the built environment, including a massive 41-painting series documenting the decaying industrial landscape of the American Viscose plant in Southeast Roanoke. Kevin also discusses his current shift into landscape painting along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the creative rhythm of finishing one piece at a time to diverse musical playlists, and the rewarding experience of meeting art lovers at the annual Taubman Sidewalk Art Show.

Host Bruce C. Bryan sits down with Sarah Quarantotto, the CEO of Miriam's House and a leading voice with the Central Virginia Continuum of Care, to examine the complex realities of housing insecurity and homelessness in Lynchburg. Quarantotto traces the origins of Miriam's House...from its founding post-World War II roots to its modern role as a multidisciplinary, community-based response hub. She outlines how sudden personal crises combined with systemic poverty lead to families becoming unhoused, while highlighting practical solutions such as rapid rehousing, street outreach partnerships, and a dedicated intake line. The discussion also covers her 16-year journey leading the organization, the critical need for affordable housing investments across Virginia, and how involving former clients in decision-making helps break the cycle of homelessness for 98% of the families they serve.

Host Bruce C. Bryan speaks with author, podcaster, and music teacher Scott Perry to explore his lifelong journey with Stoicism, marketing, and community building. Perry shares insights from his upcoming book, Stepping Into Possibility, reflecting on how ancient Stoic principles offer a practical framework for navigating life's uncertainties and finding peace of mind. He also discusses his coaching work alongside Seth Godin, his years spent running a music studio, and how embracing connection and kindness shapes everything from business strategies to personal relationships.

On this episode of Naturally Curious, host Bruce C. Bryan welcomes long-time friend and jazz guitarist Cyrus Pace to discuss his new role as the executive director of the Academy Center for the Arts in Lynchburg. Cyrus shares his journey through the music industry, reflecting on everything from his master's degree in jazz guitar and playing in the Navy band to his 15-year tenure running Roanoke's Jefferson Center. The conversation dives into the mechanics of sustaining a thriving, $4.5 million arts nonprofit, the unique challenge of balancing legacy community partners with touring national acts, and the 120-year history of the beautifully restored Academy venue. Cyrus also gives a peek into his eclectic personal playlist, talks about teaching graduate courses in arts leadership at Virginia Tech, and reveals his favorite jazz guitarists during a special surprise question segment.

On this episode of Naturally Curious, host Bruce C. Bryan sits down with Jacqui Sobieski, who holds a dual role in her region as the executive director of the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce and the co-owner of Virginia Mountain Vineyards. Jacqui discusses the rich history of Botetourt County and the balancing act of managing rapid economic expansion, new housing infrastructure, and the upcoming Google data center while working to preserve the rural character of the area. She shares details about her transition from a corporate financial career in Chicago and Washington, D.C., to running a 91-acre farm, navigating the steep learning curves of agricultural business, and classical winemaking. Jacqui also discusses her vineyard's recent silver medals at the Virginia Governor's Cup and reflects on the bittersweet decision to place the property up for auction after eight years of dedication to the craft.

Host Bruce C. Bryan speaks with Dr. Robert Canida, Chief Inclusive Excellence Officer at the University of Lynchburg, about the evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Social Justice in higher education. Dr. Canida discusses the difference between equality and equity, how higher education institutions navigate national shifts, and the importance of fostering a genuine sense of belonging for students, faculty, and staff. He also shares insights on "calling in" rather than "calling out," the legacy of his great-grandmother's guidance, and how constructive dialogue builds stronger community connections.

This episode features Margaret Terry's tender memoir about a lifelong obsession with France, a visit to Vincent van Gogh's room in Saint-Rémy, and an emotional reconnection with her mother's creativity and pain.Also included is Casadie Smith's story about tarot, the Wheel of Fortune card, and her struggle with obsessive thoughts and anxiety, ultimately learning to sit in the present rather than demanding certainty from the future.

Lexington native Brenna Angel anchored local morning newscasts for WUKY through May 13. She joined the station in March 2010 after previously working for WHAS-AM in Louisville.

Liz Halloran joined NPR in December 2008 as Washington correspondent for Digital News, taking her print journalism career into the online news world.

Devin Katayama joined WFPL News in summer 2011. He adds to the newsroom a diverse perspective having lived and reported in major cities across the U.S. and spending time in Peru reporting on human trafficking. Devin earned the 2011 Studs Terkel Community Media Scholarship Award for his report on homeless youth in Chicago. He reports on education affairs in Kentucky and Indiana.