City&Town: Podcast Series

There's Something Here: New Little Rock Farmers Market?!

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:00:00 -0500

On this episode of There’s Something Here, Kevin Shalin and John Wilkerson dive into the latest buzz around Breckenridge Village, where a new farmers market is beginning to take shape. The TSH crew unpacks how the project came together, what it could mean for the community, and why local growers and makers are already excited. From early challenges to big possibilities, the gang digs in to find out… there’s definitely something here.

C&T: February 2026

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the February 2026 edition of the City & Town Podcast. In this episode, we look back at the wintry weather's effect on Arkansas cities and towns, check in on some wonderful things happening in Paragould and Paris (Arkansas!), and hear what people are saying about the community development potential in Arkansas should Issue 3 pass in November's General Election. Enjoy!

Called to Serve '26: ARKANSAS OPIOID RECOVERY PARTNERSHIP

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0500

The Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership (ARORP) continues to guide municipalities through the implementation of national settlement funds. League Executive Director Mark Hayes, ARORP Director Kirk Lane and Arkansas Association of Counties Litigation Counsel Colin Jorgensen will provide updates on form submissions, funding timelines, and how cities can access resources to support prevention, treatment and recovery efforts.

C&T: December 2025

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0500

As 2025 winds down, City & Town takes a look back at a busy few months at the Arkansas Municipal League, with a recap of the last regional meeting of the year in Jonesboro, a visit to an exciting trail development in Mena, a look at how two cities are addressing homelessness, and a peak behind the scenes in Municipal Health. We also have a special story from Eureka Springs for the holiday season and a message from Executive Director Mark Hayes. And it's not too late to register for the 2026 Winter Conference in January. Listen for more details. Enjoy!

There's Something Here: Stuttgart

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:00:00 -0500

Ducks. Rice. Stuttgart. The TSH gang heads east of Little Rock to explore this Delta town.

There's Something Here: Welcome Back!

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0500

The TSH gang is back after a long break, and catch up with travels over the Summer.

C&T: End of Summer 2025

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0400

As the summer of 2025 winds down, the C&T Podcast crew takes a look back at Convention 91 and August's annual planning meeting, and offers a preview of the busy League schedule ahead, including the 2026 Winter Conference (registration is open now!). We also visit with Maumelle and Danville, where some fun new things are happening. Enjoy!

There's Something Here: Heber Springs

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 15:00:00 -0400

John Wilkerson and food blogger Kevin Shalin continue their culinary journey across Arkansas with a stop in the scenic town of Heber Springs, where rich history, good food, and natural beauty converge. In this episode, the duo explores a variety of local restaurants, dives into the area's unique museum offerings, and visits the iconic Greers Ferry Dam for a look at its breathtaking views. From small-town charm to hidden gems waiting to be uncovered, Heber Springs offers the perfect blend of culture and flavor—and John and Kevin are here to share every bite and moment along the way.

There's Something Here: Searcy

Thu, 15 May 2025 13:00:00 -0400

AML’s General Counsel, John Wilkerson, and Little Rock food blogger Kevin Shalin continue their journey through Arkansas. In this episode, they visit the college town of Searcy, where they dive into local diners, discover hidden gems, and indulge in a classic Southern treat—strawberry shortcake. From beloved institutions to unexpected finds, John and Kevin explore the rich culinary landscape and vibrant community that make Searcy a destination worth savoring.

There's Something Here: Scott, Keo, England

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400

AML's General Counsel, John Wilkerson, and Little Rock food blogger Kevin Shalin team up to explore Arkansas through food and community. In this episode, the two share highlights from their visit to three small towns east of Little Rock. From local dishes to the unique charm of each town, John and Kevin uncover the flavors and stories that make Arkansas special.

C&T: Winter 2025

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we take a look back at Called to Serve: '25, the League's 2025 Winter Conference. Enjoy!

There's Something Here: Batesville

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0500

Join us on this captivating journey through the charming town of Batesville, Arkansas, in the latest episode of There's Something Here.

Kevin dives into Batesville's culinary treasures, offering mouth-watering insights and hidden gems that will delight any food enthusiast and John provides listeners with an insider's perspective on what makes Batesville truly special.

There's Something Here: LIVE

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0500

Your favorite podcast is recording a live episode! Expect fun conversations, unique takes, and maybe a few surprises!

Don’t miss your chance to see Kevin Shalin, the food guru from @The Mighty Rib, and John Wilkerson, the legal whiz of the Arkansas Municipal League, live in action. Plus, we’ll have special guests from cities and towns across the state joining us!

C&T: December 2024

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0500

The December edition of the City & Town Podcast is now live! We’ve got ribbon cuttings and unveilings across the state, tasty festivals that bring folks together, straight talk about State Aid Streets, and more.

There's Something Here: Mena

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 17:00:00 -0500

Join hosts John Wilkerson and Kevin Shalin, a.k.a 'The Mighty Rib' on "There's Something Here," where they dive into the heart of small towns in Arkansas through the lens of community and food.

In this episode, John and Kevin explore the charming town of Mena, Arkansas. Discover the unique local flavors, meet the passionate people who call Mena home, and uncover the stories that make this town special. Whether it's a hidden gem of a restaurant or a local tradition, there's always something new to find in Mena. Tune in for an engaging and delicious journey into the heart of Arkansas.

There's Something Here: The Coffee Episode

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0500

The TSH Gang talks coffee, and all their favorite spots to grab a cup in Arkansas.

There's Something Here: Camden and Magnolia

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In this special two-part episode of There’s Something Here, hosts John Wilkerson and Kevin Shalin take you on a thrilling journey through Camden and Magnolia.

Join the gang as they recount their eerie encounters in Camden, then they head to Magnolia for an unforgettable evening at Lefty’s!

Along the way, John and Kevin dive into their favorite food stops, highlighting the delicious eats that make this trip truly memorable. Get ready for a mix of ghostly tales and mouthwatering bites in this exciting episode!

There's Something Here: Sheridan

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400

Join the TSH Crew as they recount their last adventure to the City of Sheridan!

C&T: September 2024

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400

As summer turns to fall in Arkansas, we take a look back at the 2024 Annual Planning Meeting, and League General Counsel John Wilkerson stops by to offer some insight into legislative priorities ahead of the next Arkansas General Assembly. We also hit the courts at the 2024 UAMS Health Little Rock Open and swing by northwest Arkansas, where a fun art project is bouncing from city to city.

There's Something Here: Cabot

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

The TSH team is back for season two! John and Kevin head to Cabot, to talk about what the city has in store and that there is much more than meets the eye.

There's Something Here: Fort Smith

Thu, 02 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Join the TSH team as they recap their recent trip to the City of Fort Smith.

There's Something Here: Recap Episode

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400

The TSH team sits down to recount their adventures over the last several months, and looks ahead to discovering more hidden gems in Arkansas.

C&T: March 2024

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Spring has sprung here at the City & Town Podcast! In this episode we take a look back at the League's 2024 Winter Conference and a look ahead to the fast-approaching 90th Annual Convention. We also visit with our team of dedicated field reps and get an update on the Arkansas Civic Education program.

There's Something Here: Pine Bluff

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0500

Join the TSH crew as they head down interstate 530 and explore the City of Pine Bluff!

There's Something Here: SOMA District

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0500

Join the TSH crew as they discuss one of Little Rock's fastest growing food scenes, the SOMA District.

C&T: December 2023

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:00:00 -0500

In our final episode of 2023, we celebrate with the town of Denning, offer highlights from a panel discussion on improving civic engagement in Arkansas and have some holiday fun with the Arkansas Municipal League's executive director.

There's Something Here: Leslie

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0400

Welcome back to another episode of There's Something Here! In this episode, John and Kevin visit the town of Leslie Arkansas.

C&T: October 2023

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the October edition of City & Town: The Podcast! In this episode, we visit with our 2023-2024 League officers, catch up with Shelby Fiegel about what's new at the Center for Community and Economic Development, and ARDOT's Ellen Coulter gives us the scoop on the agency's new customer service portal. And, we head to Wooster for a new game of Name That Sound. Enjoy!

There's Something Here: Crossett

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Join the TSH gang as they head to Crossett Arkansas. A town that's 45 miles East of El Dorado and one that's seen its fair share of ups and downs. Today the town is as vibrant as ever and John and Kevin explore the town with the people who know it best. Trust us, 'There's Something Here'.

C&T: August

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0400

There's Something Here: Magnolia

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Lithium, Bromine, Oil OH MY! The TSH crew heads down to Magnolia Arkansas to see what the boom is all about. Join John Wilkerson and Kevin Shalin as they take you to Magnolia, because "There's Something Here".

C&T: July 2023

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 13:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the July edition of the C&T podcast. This month, we'll recap the 89th Convention, talk about Act 851 and get to know the new Education Coordinator for the League.

There's Something Here: Cave City

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 16:00:00 -0400

Welcome to There's Something Here! Its a lifestyle podcast following AML's General Counsel, John Wilkerson, and Little Rock-based food blogger Kevin Shalin as they explore Arkansas through the lens of community and food. In this first episode, the pair recount their visit to Cave City.

C&T: May/June 2023

Tue, 23 May 2023 17:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the City&Town Podcast! In our first episode of AML's Flagship Program, Andrew Morgan takes us to Southern Arkansas for the ten year anniversary of the Rohwer & Jerome Japanese Internment Camp Museum, and follows one of the largest loads in Arkansas history as it makes its way from Crossett to Gum Springs. C&T Host, Ben Cline, interviews Mel Jones, John Wilkerson, and ARDOT's Ellen Coulter.

The LegUP

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 14:00:00 -0400

IT'S OVER! As the 94th General Assembly comes to a close, the AML Legislative teams reflects on all the ups and downs of the session. You do NOT want to miss this final episode!

The LegUP

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:00:00 -0400

Whew! What a week!

Jack, John and Blake break down a VERY busy week at the Capitol, and talk about the end of the session that is rapidly approaching. John interviews Representative Dwight Tosh. Rep. Dwight Tosh is serving his fifth term in the Arkansas House. He represents District 38 which includes portions of Craighead, Poinsett, and Jackson Counties.

For the 94th General Assembly, Rep. Tosh serves as the Chair of the House State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee. He also serves on the House Public Transportation Committee and the Joint Budget Committee.

Rep. Tosh has an amazing story of his experience with St. Jude Hospital that you don't want to miss!

The LegUP

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 16:00:00 -0400

AML's Legislative team recaps an intense week at the Capitol, and run through the bills affecting Arkansas' cities and towns. Hear about the 4 FOIA bills that made their way through one side of the legislature, and John interviews Senator Bart Hester of Cave Springs. Hester represents Senate District 33, which includes the cities of Cave Springs, Highfill and parts of Bentonville and Rogers in Benton County. Senator Hester was elected to the Senate in 2012 and took the oath of office on the first day of the 2013 session.

Senator Hester is serving as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the 94th General Assembly. He is a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, the State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee, the Senate Interim Committee on Children and Youth, the Joint Interim Committee on Legislative Facilities, the Senate Efficiency Committee, the Arkansas Legislative Council, Legislative Joint Auditing Committee and the Joint Budget Committee.

The LegUP

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 16:00:00 -0500

The Legislative team is back with another update from the Capitol! This week, John interviews Representative Larry Fite. Rep. Lanny Fite is serving his fifth term in the Arkansas House of Representatives. He represents District 83 which includes a portion of Saline County.

For the 94th General Assembly, Rep. Fite serves as the Chair of the House City, County and Local Affairs Committee. He also serves on the House Education Committee and the Joint Auditing Committee.

The LegUP

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 17:00:00 -0500

The AML Legislative team gives an update on the last week at the capitol and covers the latest movement on their target legislation. Blake, John and Jack also discuss the Governor's education bill making its way through the Capitol. John also sits down with Senator Breanne Davis for the interview portion on the show.

Senator Breanne Davis of Russellville won a special election in 2018. She represents District 25, which includes most of Pope and Conway Counties. Senator Davis is chair of the Senate Efficiency Committee.

Senator Davis is a member of the Senate Education Committee, the Senate Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development Committee, the Joint Retirement and Social Security Committee, Joint Budget Committee, the Arkansas Legislative Council and the Senate Ethics Committee.

The LegUP

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0500

We're in the 'Dog Days' of the Legislative Session as John puts it, so buckle up! The team gives an update on the House Bill 1399, and we catch up Rep. Milton Nicks, Jr. Rep. Milton Nicks, Jr. is serving his fifth term in the Arkansas House. He represents District 35 which includes portions of Crittenden and Cross County.

For the 94th General Assembly, Rep. Nicks serves as the Vice Chair of the House Judiciary Committee. He also serves on the Joint Auditing Committee.

The LegUP

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 16:00:00 -0500

Join the Legislative Team as they recap the busiest week at the Capitol so far! John, Blake and Jack discuss best practices when testifying for or against a bill, and the group talks about the latest movement for the upcoming publication bill. John interviews Senator Dan Sullivan. Senator Sullivan represents Senate District 20, which includes parts of Craighead County and the cities of Jonesboro and Bono and Herndon Township.

The LegUP

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:00:00 -0500

With the Governor's education package being discussed at the Capitol, the legislative session is really getting into full swing. John, Blake and Jack cover the latest movement at the legislative session, and we hear from Rep. Frances Cavenaugh. Then the AML legislative team discusses the session as a whole and strategy for upcoming bills.

Rep. Cavenaugh is serving her fourth term in the Arkansas House. She represents District 30 which includes portions of Lawrence, Craighead, and Greene counties.

For the 94th General Assembly, Rep. Cavenaugh serves on the House Revenue and Taxation Committee and the House City, County, and Local Affairs Committee. Rep. Cavenaugh also serves on the Joint Budget Committee.

The LegUP

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 14:00:00 -0500

Join the Leg UP crew for the ICE EDITION of the podcast where they recap the latest movement at the Capitol. This week we interview Representative Carol Dalby. She represents District 100 which includes Texarkana and a portion of Miller County.

For the 94th General Assembly, Rep. Dalby serves as the Chair of the House Judiciary Committee. She also serves on the House City, County and Local Affairs Committee and the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee.

We'll also get an update on the publications bill, and hear about Blake's treacherous journey navigating the frozen tundra outside of the Capitol.

The LegUP

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0500

Welcome to The Leg UP! This episode acts as the Arkansas Municipal League's first foray in the podcast realm. This week we run down all the major bills so far in the session, and we sit down with Senator Scott Flippo from District 23.