America's Healthiest City
America's Healthiest City 89 episodes Oct 28, 2026
America's Healthiest City, hosted by Will Melton, explores community-driven health initiatives in Richmond, VA. Each episode features inspiring stories from local leaders and innovative health solutions. The podcast offers actionable insights for listeners to contribute to a healthier community. It is produced by America's Healthiest City.
Episodes
Miles Hopkins, Richmond's People's Budget
The Richmond People's Budget gives residents $3 million and a real vote on real projects. Miles Hopkins explains how it works, district by district.Host Will Melton sits down with Miles Hopkins on the America’s Healthiest City Podcast. As a communications specialist with the City of Richmond, Miles breaks down the Richmond People's Budget from the inside. It's a direct democracy pro
Flowers As An Equalizer: Nitika Achalam, True Grit Farm and Flower
America’s Healthiest City exists to track a ten-year partnership working to make the greater Richmond region the healthiest in America by 2033. Host Will Melton sits down with people already doing that work, and this episode’s guest has spent more than two decades building hers in soil and breath.Richmond herbalist and flower farmer Nitika Achalam of True Grit Farm and Flower explains how plants a
Vincent Vu, Kinis AI: From Barefoot Running To High Tech Balance Checks
Fall prevention has a new tool: a smartphone camera. Vincent Vu, founder of Kinis AI, demos the balance test built to catch instability weeks before it becomes a fall.Falling gets treated like an inevitable part of aging, but the CDC numbers Vu found tell a different story. Falls are the leading cause of injury death for adults over 65, cost the U.S. $80 billion a year, and result in a hip fractur
Turning Grief Into Hope: Erin Gallagher and The Jaywalkers Challenge
Erin Gallagher became one of Richmond's leading voices on suicide prevention after her 18-year-old son, Jay, died by suicide in 2016, with no prior diagnosis and no warning signs anyone recognized in time. On this episode of America's Healthiest City, host Will Melton sits down with Gallagher, founder of Jay Walkers, to talk about grief, stigma, and the prevention tools most families hav
Small Steps on a Trail to Better Health: CEO of Sports Backers, Will Dixon
Sports Backers sold out the Allianz Richmond Marathon in June, five months before anyone lines up to run in November. On race weekend, the organization puts 22,000 runners on Richmond streets, backed by thousands of volunteers and tens of thousands of spectators. Another 1,400 people meet every weekend for 24 weeks just to get ready for it.Will Dixon runs all of it. He has been with Sports Backers
Can A Soccer Culture Help Build A Healthier City? | Alex Kocher, Richmond Kickers & Richmond Ivy
Alex Kocher moved to Richmond from Oregon four years ago and started designing jerseys for a team that didn't exist yet. That team became the Richmond Ivy, Richmond's women's soccer team. But logos and kits can look perfect, and still fail if the experience around it feels hollow. That’s why talking with Alex's perspectives on design and how it plays into the larger story of ho
Fitness That Sticks – Aubrey Eicher of The Well Personal Fitness
Richmond personal trainer Aubrey Eicher built a 3-location fitness business on one idea: the physical transformation is the least interesting part.🔗 Try a free exploratory session: https://thewellpf.com📍 Learn about America's Healthiest City: https://americashealthiestcity.com---Aubrey Eicher, founder of The Well Personal Fitness, has been in the Richmond fitness and wellness space since 2014
Richmond's Water Emergency with Mayor Avula
What happens when a public health physician becomes mayor and immediately faces a massive infrastructure failure? In this riveting conversation, Dr. Danny Avula takes us behind the scenes of Richmond's recent water crises and shares his unexpected journey from medicine to municipal leadership.Just five days after taking office in January 2024, Mayor Avula found himself navigating an emergency
Small Changes, Big Impact: Saving Energy in Virginia's Booming Economy
Did you know that Virginians are literally throwing away one-third of the energy we pay for? As our state faces the challenge of energy demand doubling over the next decade, understanding how to use energy efficiently has never been more critical.Rochelle Sommer, Senior Communications Specialist with the Virginia State Corporation Commission, joins us to explain how Virginia Energy Sense—the state
The Science of Longevity: How MetaFit Rx is Revolutionizing Personal Health
MetaFit Rx brings clinical testing usually reserved for elite athletes to everyday people seeking longevity and improved health through data-driven approaches. Founders Melissa and David Ambrose combine physiological testing with behavioral support to help clients understand their unique metabolic profiles and implement sustainable lifestyle changes.• Clinical exercise physiologist Melissa Ambrose
The Capital Trail Is Transforming Richmond One Step at a Time
Richmond's evolution into a healthier, more vibrant community flows directly through the Virginia Capital Trail, a 52-mile pathway connecting the city to Williamsburg that has transformed how residents experience outdoor recreation and community connection.Kat Anthony, Executive Director of the Capital Trail Foundation, brings her passion for outdoor accessibility to her role overseeing this
From Super Bowl Spotlight to Community Champion: The Many Hats of Lance Lemon
Lance Lemon shares his journey from childhood actor to Richmond entrepreneur, spotlighting his Super Bowl commercial for Penny's Wine Shop and his vision for revitalizing Jackson Ward.• Growing up in Mechanicsville with summers in Richmond gave Lance a unique perspective bridging city and country upbringings• Named Penny's Wine Shop after Maggie Walker's St. Luke Penny Savings Bank,
America's Healthiest City ESPN Richmond 2024 Recap & Farewell
The final episode of America’s Healthiest City reflects on the past year’s efforts and experiences while looking ahead to new community-focused programming in 2025. Key themes include addressing youth violence, promoting out-of-school programming, and emphasizing grassroots activism as essential components in building a healthier Richmond.• Reflecting on the show’s journey and mission • Addressing
Greta Harris on Affordable Housing, Social Justice, and Transforming Richmond Communities
What if affordable housing could be the key to transforming communities and creating thriving opportunities for all? Join us as Greta Harris, President and CEO of the Better Housing Coalition, shares her remarkable journey from her roots in Danville, Virginia, to becoming a force for change in Richmond. Greta opens up about how her upbringing and her family's commitment to social justice insp
Michelle Mercurio on Personal Branding, Embracing Authenticity, and Richmond's Creative Community
Imagine discovering your true path after leaving behind a seemingly perfect corporate life. That's my story, and today, I’m joined by Michelle Mercurio, a dynamic creative entrepreneur, to explore the magic of personal branding and creativity. Together, we unlock the foundational importance of self-awareness, emphasizing that truly liking, knowing, and trusting oneself is essential before exp
Sparkle Taylor on Resilience, Community Work, and the Hidden Potential of Richmond's Gilpin Court
Sparkle Taylor joins us for an episode filled with raw honesty and inspiration, as she shares her story of resilience and growth in Richmond’s Gilpin Court. From overcoming homelessness to finding a home, Sparkle navigates the complexities of her community with a unique perspective. Her experiences during the COVID pandemic highlight how online EBT transactions provided crucial support for her and
David Waidelich from Feedmore on Treating Food as Medicine and Revolutionizing Community Health in Richmond
What if the secret to a healthier life lies not in traditional medicine, but in the food we eat? Join us for a conversation with David Wadlick, the Chief Collaboration and Programs Officer for Feedmore, as he shares his incredible journey from a 20-year career in the US Navy to reshaping community health initiatives in Richmond. With an MBA from the University of Virginia and a diverse background
Rob Mazzanti on Winning the Richmond Marathon and Embracing the City's Community Spirit
Richmond Marathon champion Rob Mazzanti joins us to share the dynamic story behind his recent victory and the vibrant city he calls home. From his formative years at the University of Richmond to his pivotal role in the tennis world, Rob's journey is marked by determination and a profound connection to Richmond. Get ready to uncover the inspiration behind his return to this lively city and ho
John Lugbill from Sports Backers on Inspiring Youth and Richmond's Active Living Initiatives
Discover how childhood athleticism can pave the way for future success as we sit down with the inspiring John Lugbill, Executive Director of Sports Backers. From world champion canoeist and Olympian to a community leader making waves in Richmond, John's journey is as fascinating as it is motivating. He shares how initiatives like the "Kids on the Move" clubs are breaking barriers to
Jeremy Hoffman from Groundwork USA on Richmond's Path to Becoming America's Healthiest City by 2033
Ever wondered how cities can truly become healthier and more equitable places to live? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jeremy Hoffman, PhD, the Director of Climate Justice and Impact at Groundwork USA. Jeremy shares his incredible journey from the Midwest to Richmond, igniting a passion for environmental science and climate justice. We uncover Richmond's ambitious plans to becom
Racheal Cook from the CEO Collective on Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Richmond's Vision for 2033
Racheal Cook, CEO and founder of the CEO Collective, joined us to share her inspiring journey from the world of consulting to her mission of empowering women entrepreneurs. Her personal story of reevaluation and transformation offers a powerful narrative about prioritizing a life-first business model, especially for women striving to define success on their own terms. We explore Racheal's vis
Reggie Gordon from Richmond Memorial Health Foundation on Transforming Richmond's Health and Equity
Explore the inspiring journey of Richmond's transformation with Reggie Gordon, CEO of the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation. Discover how Reggie's roots in Richmond and his career in law and human services fuel his commitment to tackling social determinants of health. We promise you'll gain insights into the power of mentorship and life skills in empowering under-resourced communi
Tasha Dickerson from WellcomeMD on Concierge Medicine and Richmond's Health Goals
Join us as Dr. Tasha Dickerson of WellcomeMD shares her journey from traditional family medicine to concierge and functional medicine, a path shaped by the rapid rise of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Dickerson delves into how personalized healthcare models are revolutionizing patient care, offering insights into the benefits of a membership model that builds strong patient-provide
Melody Short from Richmond Night Market and Artisan Cafe
In this episode of America's Healthiest City, host Will Melton speaks with Melody Short, co-founder of the Richmond Night Market. Together, they delve into Melody's journey as a passionate advocate for Richmond's artistic and entrepreneurial communities. From her early days immersed in art across major cities to her return to Richmond to co-found the Artisan Cafe—now the Richmond Ni
Kelly del Campo Merricks from the Sheltering Arms Foundation
How does one transition from aspiring to be a medical professional to leading a mission to make Richmond the healthiest city in America? Kelly del Campo Merricks, Vice President of Philanthropy at the Sheltering Arms Foundation, shares her captivating journey and what drives her to make a difference. Kelly's story unfolds from moving to Richmond for medical school, only to find her true calli
Maria Carra Rose Candidate Richmond City Council 3rd District
This week on America's Healthiest City, our host Will Melton interviews Maria Carra Rose, a candidate for Richmond’s 3rd District City Council seat. Carra shares insights on her 20+ years living in North Side Richmond, her passion for community service, and what drives her to represent her neighbors in city leadership. This episode highlights the importance of being informed as Richmond appro
Chris Frelke From the City of Richmond Parks and Recreation Department
In this episode of America's Healthiest City, host Will Melton sits down with Chris Frelke, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities for the City of Richmond, to explore the exciting growth of Richmond’s park system. From hidden parks waiting to be discovered to the strategic partnerships and friends-of groups that keep the city’s green spaces thriving, Chris shares the inside
Lark Washington from Maggie Walker Community Land Trust
Dive into an inspiring conversation with Lark Washington, Chief Operating Officer of Maggie Walker Community Land Trust. Host Will Melton uncovers Lark’s path to MWCLT, their impactful work in expanding affordable housing in Richmond, and her optimistic vision for a future where everyone has access to safe and affordable homes. 🏠Listen now to explore how MWCLT is tackling the housing crisis, build
Josh Stutz from Friends of James River Parks
In this episode, we speak with Josh Stutz, Executive Director of **Friends of the James River Park**, who takes us behind the scenes of Richmond’s beloved park system. Josh shares insights on the park’s $800,000+ budget, the importance of community fundraising, and the comprehensive master plan designed to keep the parks vibrant and accessible. We also discuss the vital role the James River plays
Myra Goodman-Smith from Leadership Metro Richmond
In this episode, Will Melton sits down with Myra Goodman-Smith, the Executive Director of Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR), to discuss their recent community leader awardees and celebrate Myra’s impactful career as she prepares for retirement. They explore her legacy within the organization, the influence of LMR on the Richmond community, and what the future holds for this essential leadership prog
Todd Waldo from the Shockoe Institute
Ever wondered how a seasoned engineer transitions into a pivotal community leader with an unwavering commitment to societal impact? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Todd Waldo, Vice President of the Shockoe Institute, as he shares his journey from the heart of South Carolina to the vibrant city of Richmond. Inspired by the sacrifices of his parents and driven by a passion for communit
Casey Jordan, Neurodivergent Coach
Casey shares her journey from serving in the military, where she sustained a traumatic brain injury, to discovering her passion for coaching others. Her insights into how neurodivergent individuals can use their differences as strengths, rather than seeing them solely as challenges, provide valuable takeaways for listeners.This podcast is produced and sponsored by Xponent21, experts in brand and d
Kimmy Cummings from Richmond Ivy
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," Will Melton, founder of Xponent21, interviews Kimmy Cummings, head coach for the Richmond Ivy, the new USL W soccer team in Richmond. They discuss the importance of building lasting relationships, both on and off the field, and how the Richmond Ivy has connected people from different walks of life in the community. Kimmy shares her jou
Steve Perkins from Greenhouse
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," Will Melton, founder of Xponent21, interviews Steve Perkins, owner and chief coach at Greenhouse Coaching. They explore the importance of having a clear life vision, how workplace culture impacts personal well-being, and the significance of aligning your daily actions with long-term goals. Steve shares his journey from engineering to c
Ashley Williams from The Well Collective
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Ashley Williams, founder of BareSoul Wellness and The Well Collective. Ashley shares her journey of embracing holistic well-being after personal loss, leading her to create community spaces for restorative practices in Richmond. They discuss the importance of being present in daily life, the role of self-care as community care, and the development of her amb
Kelli Lemon from Richmond Time's Dispatch
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Kelli Lemon, a dynamic entrepreneur, media personality, and community leader in Richmond. Kelli shares her journey from working in VCU athletics to becoming a business owner of Urban Hang Suite, a media host for Virginia Video Network, and an on-air personality for Radio One Richmond. She also discusses her involvement as a board member of Sports Backers and
Oscar Contreras from Radio Poder 1380
In this episode, Will Melton talks with Oscar Contreras from Radio Poder 1380 AM about supporting the diverse Hispanic and Latin community in Greater Richmond. Oscar shares his journey from Guatemala to Richmond, his career in radio, and the critical role his station plays in providing resources and information to the Hispanic community. They also discuss the cultural richness within the community
Duron Chavis from Happily Natural Day
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Duron Chavis, the founder of Happily Natural Day. Duron shares his journey from community activism to urban farming, detailing how Happily Natural Day evolved from an experiential festival into a nonprofit that transforms urban spaces into thriving farms and gardens. He discusses the significance of food sovereignty, holistic health, and the importance of gr
AI Ready RVA Committee
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Liz Baker, Alexander Whiteway, and Phil Demetrio from AI Ready RVA. They discuss their work in making Richmond a top city for AI talent by fostering education, community engagement, and business integration. The guests share their personal journeys with AI, its transformative potential for businesses and communities, and their vision for Richmond's futu
Traymanesha Lamy from NextUp RVA
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Traymanesha Lamy, CEO and President of NextUp RVA. They discuss the organization's mission to increase access to quality after-school and summer programs for Richmond's youth. Traymanesha shares her journey into youth development, emphasizing the critical role of out-of-school time in shaping young lives. They explore how NextUp RVA is working to c
Queon Martin Carter Magazine
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Queon Martin, CEO and founder of Carter Magazine. They discuss Queon's journey from growing up in Brooklyn to becoming a media influencer with a passion for highlighting African-American history and culture. Keon shares how his experiences in media led him to create Carter Magazine and DNA America, platforms dedicated to bringing authentic stories to th
Jennifer Wakefield & Kiryako Sharikas Greater Richmond Partnership
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Jennifer Wakefield and Kiryako Sharikas from the Greater Richmond Partnership. They discuss the exciting growth of the life sciences sector in Richmond, fueled by the Build Back Better grant and ongoing investments in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Jennifer and Kiryako highlight the region’s efforts to create high-paying jobs, advance Workforce Development, a
Alex and Sam Nordheimer from Padel Plant
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Alex and Sam Nordheimer, co-founders of Paddle Plant, an innovative new facility coming to Richmond's Canal Walk. They share their journey from discovering the growing sports of pickleball and paddle to transforming the historic Haxall building into a vibrant community hub. Alex and Sam discuss their vision for creating a "third place" where R
Jacqui Bauer from The Community Climate Collaborative
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton interviews Jacqui Bauer, Climate Services Manager at the Community Climate Collaborative (C3). They discuss the significant impact businesses have on sustainability and the environment, emphasizing the role of the Green Business Alliance, a cohort of businesses in Richmond committed to reducing g
Matt Leighty from Grant Flow
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton interviews Matt Leighty, Chief Strategy Officer of Grant Flow, a company dedicated to helping nonprofits secure grant funding more efficiently. Matt shares his journey from working in the academic sector to focusing on nonprofit grant writing, where he has helped organizations secure over $150 mi
Christian Markow & Mark Brown The Lost Office Collaborative
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," host Will Melton speaks with Christian Marco and Mark Brown, co-founders of Lost Office Collaborative, about their innovative workspace designed to enhance creativity, collaboration, and well-being in Richmond. They discuss how the space, filled with intentional design elements like plants, scents, and soundscapes, serves as a catalyst
Dr. Ram Bhagat Drums No Guns Foundation
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," host Will Melton speaks with Dr. Ram Bhagat, founder of Drums No Guns Foundation, about his innovative approaches to healing and community building through the arts. Dr. Bhagat shares the story behind his foundation, which uses drumming and other creative practices to address trauma, promote mindfulness, and reduce violence in Richmond
Nicole Jones from Art 180
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," host Will Melton speaks with Nicole Jones, City Councilwoman for Richmond's 9th District and Deputy Director of Art 180. Nicole discusses the importance of collective efforts in community building, emphasizing that everyone, from artists to community members, plays a crucial role in making Richmond a healthier place. They explore
Carl Gupton from Greenswell Growers
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," host Will Melton speaks with Carl Gupton from Greenswell Growers, a leader in sustainable agriculture based in Richmond. Carl shares insights into their innovative approach to greenhouse farming, which uses 85% less water and significantly reduces waste compared to traditional methods. He discusses the dual focus on environmental and b
Chloe Carter & Monica Smith from RVA Teen Summit
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," Will Melton discusses the upcoming Teen Summit RVA with Monica Smith, and Chloe Carter. The event, created in response to the challenges teens faced during the pandemic, brings together students from Richmond, Henrico, and Chesterfield to voice their concerns on topics like mental health, diversity, and community engagement. The guests
Andreas Addison from Richmond City Council
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Andreas Addison, City Councilman for Richmond's 1st District and owner of Pure Fitness RVA. Andreas discusses his journey from being a management analyst to a city councilman, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and participatory budgeting in Richmond. He also shares his insights on personal fitness, highlighting the significance of movem
Jim Morgan & Frazier Millner Armstrong One Small Step
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," Will Melton interviews Jim Morgan and Frazier Millner Armstrong from One Small Step Richmond. They discuss the initiative's mission to bridge divides through meaningful conversations between individuals with differing viewpoints. One Small Step, an offshoot of StoryCorps, facilitates 50-minute dialogues designed to foster understa
Victor Mckenzie with SAARA - Substance Abuse & Addiction Recovery
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," Will Melton interviews Victor McKenzie, Executive Director of the Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance (SAARA). They discuss Victor's journey from New York City to Richmond, his passion for public service inspired by his involvement with the Boys and Girls Club, and his leadership in the community. SAARA's work foc
Dave Robinson - Healing Ourselves With Story Work
In this episode, Will Melton sits down with Dave Robinson, the founder and coach at Work Your Stories. They explore the concept of story work, focusing on how the narratives we tell ourselves can impact our mental and physical well-being. Dave shares his journey from strength and conditioning coaching to founding his business, where he helps clients reframe their internal stories to lead healthier
Adam Kennedy from Swim RVA
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Adam Kennedy, Executive Director of SwimRVA. Adam shares his journey from a collegiate swimming coach to leading SwimRVA, where the mission is to teach every child in Richmond to swim. They discuss the organization's ambitious goals, including expanding access to Aquatics across 11 school districts, overcoming barriers to swimming, and making pools more
Rob Ukrop from the Richmond Kickers
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Rob Ukrop, co-owner of the Richmond Kickers. Rob shares his journey from professional soccer player to leading the Richmond Kickers, discussing the club's deep ties to the community and its impact on youth development. They explore the connection between sports and community health, highlighting the Kickers’ role in creating a positive environment for y
Will Melton Recaps the First Year of America's Healthiest City
This podcast is produced by Xponent21, a leading expert in Richmond digital marketing, SEO strategies, and website design. Visit Xponent21.com to learn more.From Channel RVA: Richmond's independent media platform — original journalism, podcasts, live events, and local art, no paywalls. Explore it all at ChannelRVA.com.From our creators: Channel RVA and America's Healthiest City are produ
Stephen Jenkins from Gracist
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Stephen Jenkins, founder of the Richmond-based clothing brand Gracist. Stephen shares his journey from New York City to Richmond, exploring his roots and the transformative experience of reconnecting with his African heritage. Through Gracist, Stephen employs artisans in Niger to create vibrant, handcrafted clothing, blending African fabrics with American st
Angela Patton from Girls For a Change
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," host Will Melton interviews Angela Patton, CEO of Girls for a Change. Angela shares her journey from Southside Richmond to becoming a leader in empowering young black girls through her organization. She discusses the impactful programs they offer, including the Girl Ambassador program and initiatives that expose girls to diverse career
Miguel Perez and Angelica Burgos from Conflux Dance Theatre
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Miguel Perez and Angelica Burgos, the founders and co-artistic directors of Conflux Dance Theater in Richmond, VA. Miguel and Angelica share their journey from professional dance careers in major cities to establishing a contemporary ballet company in Richmond. They discuss the importance of creating an inclusive space that brings together diverse background
Lisa Trapp From Capital Trees Talks Greening The City
In this episode, Will Melton speaks with Lisa Trapp, Program and Outreach Manager for Capital Trees, about the organization's efforts to enhance Richmond's green spaces. Lisa discusses the importance of urban green spaces for community well-being and environmental health, highlighting projects like the Low Line and upcoming improvements at Hotchkiss Field. She emphasizes the critical rol
Tom Bannard from Rams in Recovery at VCU
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Tom Bannard, Director of Rams in Recovery at VCU. Tom shares his journey from battling addiction to leading a program that supports students in recovery. He discusses the comprehensive services offered by Rams in Recovery, including recovery coaching, housing, and scholarship programs. Tom highlights the importance of community, resilience, and wellness in h
Anne Poarch from Basket & Bike
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Anne Poarch, founder of Basket & Bike, a Richmond-based business that combines cycling with nature, history, and community engagement. Anne shares her journey from a career in finance to launching a business that encourages people to explore Richmond's beauty by bike. She discusses the mental health benefits of being in nature and the importance of
Ellie Martinez from Big Brothers Big Sisters
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Ellie Martinez, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters, to discuss the transformative power of mentorship in the Richmond area. Ellie shares her journey from teaching to leading a nonprofit focused on youth development. They delve into the critical role Big Brothers Big Sisters plays in shaping young lives, the challenges of recruiting mentors, and t
Naomi Boyd Dean of VCU School of Business
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Dr. Naomi Boyd, Dean of the VCU School of Business. Dr. Boyd shares her journey from a background in the arts to leading one of the top public business schools in the country. They discuss the importance of integrating creativity, innovation, and empathy in business education, and the role of societal impact in shaping future leaders. Dr. Boyd also highlight
Sam Stone from Stone's Office Equipment
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Sam Stone, President of Stone's Office Equipment, to discuss the importance of clean water in office environments. Sam shares insights from his extensive experience in the office equipment industry and his new venture, Pure Water Virginia, which focuses on reducing plastic waste by providing purified water solutions. They explore the challenges of aging
Shari Barkin from the VCU Children's Hospital
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Dr. Shari Barkin, Chair of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief at the Children's Hospital of Richmond. Dr. Barkin shares her journey from a life-changing experience with a young patient to her current leadership role, where she integrates patient care, research, and community health. They discuss the vision for making Richmond the healthiest city in Ameri
Lisa Kersey from FreeKind
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Lisa Kersey, Executive Director of Free Kind, an organization dedicated to combating human trafficking. Lisa shares insights into the hidden realities of trafficking in our communities and the importance of awareness in combating this issue. They discuss the complexities of victimization, the critical role of prevention education, and the services Free Kind
Hunter Leemon from Sportable
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton interviews Hunter Leemon, the CEO of Sportable, an organization dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments through adaptive sports. Hunter discusses his journey from a small rural community in Brunswick County to his role as a leader in th
Dr. Chris Reina VCU Business Professor
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton speaks with Dr. Chris Reina, a leader in transformative leadership from VCU's Institute for Transformative Leadership. Dr. Reina challenges the outdated notion that leadership is an innate skill, emphasizing instead that leadership is a set of influence behaviors that can be learned and hone
David Ambrose from MetafitRX
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton sits down with David Ambrose, co-founder of Metafit RX, a Richmond-based wellness center offering advanced diagnostic tools typically reserved for professional athletes. David shares his journey from Pittsburgh to Richmond, highlighting his deep commitment to fitness, civil rights, and teaching.L
Jonathan Zur from Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton interviews Jonathan Zur, the director of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities. Jonathan discusses the organization's efforts in fostering inclusivity and reducing bias within schools and communities. He highlights a significant success story where a local elementary school saw a 47%
Noah O with RVA Rappers Delight
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton interviews Noah-O, a Virginia hip-hop artist, entrepreneur, and community leader. Noah-O shares the inspiration behind "Charged Up," a movement and mindset focused on maintaining high energy and uplifting others, rooted in his multicultural upbringing and experiences in the Richmond mus
Liz Young from Richmond Volleyball Club
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton sits down with Liz Young, the Director of Marketing for the Richmond Volleyball Club. Liz shares the club's rich history, dating back to its founding in 1981, and its evolution into a central hub for volleyball enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels in Richmond. With over 3,000 members, th
Devon Copeland from Iron Village
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City" on ESPN Richmond 106.1, host Will Melton sits down with Devon Copeland, the driving force behind Iron Village Preparatory Academy. Devon shares her journey from journalism to education, fueled by a passion for empowering young people in Richmond. They discuss the Academy's unique approach to summer programming, focusing on the impo
Ray Ready from Everybody Eats Entertainment
In this episode, Will Melton interviews Ray Ready from Everybody Eats Entertainment. Ray shares his journey from philosophy major and special ed teacher to social media influencer and community organizer. They discuss the importance of creativity, community engagement, and the joy of living authentically. Ray highlights his passion for using content creation to inspire others and support local cau
Taikein Cooper from Richmond Public School Foundation
Join us on this insightful episode of "America's Healthiest City" as host Will Melton engages with Taikein Cooper, Executive Director of the Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation. Together, they explore the challenges facing young people today, from continuous trauma to the influence of social media, and discuss the importance of mentorship, community involvement, and innovat
Selamawit Hailu from The Human Connection
In this episode of "America's Healthiest City," host Will Melton sits down with Salamawit Hailu, founder of The Human Connection, to explore the profound impact of connection on mental health, well-being, and community vitality. Salam shares her journey from Ethiopia to Richmond and delves into her work on fostering connections between individuals, communities, and the environment.
Kathryn Blessing from VMFA
Join us for an insightful episode of "America's Healthiest City" as Will Melton sits down with Katherine Blessing, Director of Corporate Relations at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA). In this discussion, Katherine shares her journey from music performance to arts management and the vital role of art in fostering community health and well-being. They delve into the often-overl
Shep Roper from Beyond Boundaries
Join us for an enlightening conversation on "America's Healthiest City" as Will Melton hosts Shep Roper, Executive Director of Beyond Boundaries. This episode explores the power of outdoor recreation in fostering inclusion and enhancing community well-being. Shep Roper discusses how Beyond Boundaries creates accessible outdoor experiences for individuals with disabilities, underserv
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