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The B Team Podcast

The B-Team Podcast
69 episodes   Last Updated: May 01, 25

Talking all things Business, Bentonville, and Bourbon. Hosted by Josh Saffran, Matt Marrs, and Rob Nelson. New episodes every Thursday!

Episodes

In this lively and heartfelt episode of the B-Team Podcast, hosts Josh Saffran, Matt Marrs, and permanent guest Rob Nelson shake things up with a celebration of generosity, community, and, of course, bourbon. This week, they are joined by special guests Lisa Brewer and Gina Koch, who earned their spot on the show through a charity auction at the Gentsgiving event. Normally centered around bourbon and business in Bentonville, today's episode focuses on the incredible success of their recent fundraiser, which raised an astounding $100,000 for the Cancer Society and veterans' organizations.Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the Gentsgiving event, a traditionally male-focused bourbon night that evolved this year to welcome more women - leading to a richer, more inclusive experience. Lisa and Gina share how their feedback from previous years shaped the event, including the addition of wine selections and plans for future auction items aimed at female attendees. The conversation highlights how small changes can create a big impact in community fundraising and charity engagement.Of course, no B-Team episode would be complete without some lighthearted ribbing and fun discussions. The crew dives into hilarious stories about vacations, bourbon room designs, pink wine rooms, and extravagant ideas for next year’s charity auction - including luxury trips, spa packages, and high-end fashion accessories. The episode perfectly captures the spirit of the B-Team: blending bourbon-fueled camaraderie with meaningful charitable work.In between the laughter and storytelling, there’s a genuine celebration of friendship, community building, and giving back. Listeners will hear about heartwarming personal stories, like Lisa’s and Gina’s adopted friendships in Mexico, and the fun chaos that ensues when passionate people rally behind a great cause. Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast, a charity supporter, or someone who loves good conversation, this episode is packed with entertaining and inspiring moments.Join us for a heartwarming and hilarious ride through Bentonville’s best charity night, bourbon rooms, pink wine rooms, and more.
Ever wondered what happens when martial arts meets paintball? This episode dives deep into the unexpected crossover as we welcome Kaleb Plank and his business partner Chris Hulsey, the minds behind Wild World Paintball in Northwest Arkansas. Prepare for a roller coaster ride through Kaleb's entrepreneurial adventures, including convincing an engineering graduate to abandon his career prospects for a martial arts school. Their story of transforming a neglected paintball facility into a thriving business reveals the unexpected challenges of entrepreneurship.The conversation takes fascinating turns as Chris, an avid competitive paintball player, breaks down the different formats of the sport and explains how it has evolved from a recreational activity into a professional endeavor with top players earning up to $180,000 annually. We explore the technology behind the equipment, from basic rental guns to high-end markers costing thousands, and learn how the industry is experiencing a renaissance after nearly collapsing during the 2008 financial crisis.What truly shines through is the passion and camaraderie that paintball fosters. Whether it's corporate team building, tactical training for law enforcement, or competitive tournaments, this sport creates unique bonds between participants. The connection to paintball legend Billy Ceranski (now CEO of Kore Outdoor) adds another layer to this fascinating glimpse into an industry many know little about.Ready to experience the adrenaline rush of paintball? Check out Wild World Paintball in Tontitown, open weekends for regular play and weekdays by appointment for corporate events. Your next adventure might be just a trigger pull away!
Ever wondered how a simple birthday toast could turn into a deep dive into whiskey history and appreciation? Join us on the B-Team Podcast as we toast to Josh's birthday with a special tasting of the Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage bourbon. You'll learn about the fascinating history of single-barrel vintages and the evolving bourbon market landscape. Hear Matt's triumphant tale of tracking down this bourbon gem in Northwest Arkansas for just $35, and enjoy our lighthearted reflections on bourbon scarcity during the pandemic. It's a journey filled with laughter, camaraderie, and insights into the bourbon world that promise to expand your appreciation and maybe even inspire you to bolster your own whiskey collection.But that's not all—our conversation takes a historical twist as we unravel the story of the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. Discover how Colonel Taylor and fellow Kentucky distillers courageously addressed dangerous practices in whiskey production, leading to a pivotal law that raised the bar for whiskey safety and quality. We share personal stories of how these historical insights have influenced our whiskey experiences at home, offering practical tips for fellow enthusiasts balancing family life with a passion for quality bourbon. Raise your glass for an engaging episode filled with humor, heartfelt stories, and a shared love for the storied spirit of bourbon. Cheers!
What if healthcare actually focused on health instead of just managing disease? This groundbreaking conversation with Jordan Cash, founder of Salt Health, reveals how membership-based primary care is revolutionizing healthcare in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.The current medical system is fundamentally broken—rushed appointments, disconnected specialists, and treatment plans that mask symptoms rather than addressing root causes. Salt Health's membership model ($349/month individual, $699/month family) provides remarkable access: up to 20 medical appointments yearly plus facilities that rival luxury fitness clubs. More importantly, it delivers something increasingly rare in healthcare—time. Time for providers to truly understand your health history, goals, and challenges. Time to develop comprehensive treatment plans addressing root causes rather than just symptoms.Unlike traditional practices that bounce patients between specialists with minimal coordination, Salt Health provides truly integrated care. On-site laboratory services, X-rays, nutritionists, health coaches, and massage therapists collaborate under one roof. When specialist referrals are necessary, Salt Health coordinates care and follows up to ensure continuity—something sorely lacking in conventional medicine. Their approach to hormone replacement therapy exemplifies this holistic philosophy: thorough testing, personalized treatment options, and ongoing monitoring rather than one-size-fits-all prescriptions.What most impresses about Salt Health is their commitment to transformative rather than transactional medicine. They're not looking for quick fixes but sustainable solutions that may actually reverse conditions rather than merely managing them. Whether you're an elite athlete seeking optimization or managing chronic conditions affecting daily life, the comprehensive Salt Health approach addresses the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.Ready to experience healthcare that actually works? Check out salt-health.com or follow @salthealthNWA on social media to learn more about their revolutionary approach to wellness and membership options.
Imagine healthcare where your doctor actually has time for you. Where prevention matters more than prescriptions. Where medical care, fitness, and wellness seamlessly integrate under one roof. That's the vision Jordan Cash and his team have brought to life with Salt Health in Northwest Arkansas.The traditional healthcare system is fundamentally broken. With physicians pressured to see 25-35 patients daily and appointments averaging just 6-7 minutes of face time, it's no wonder both doctors and patients feel frustrated. "We often refer to it as sick care instead of healthcare," Jordan explains, highlighting how our system waits until we're already ill before intervening—exactly when treatment becomes most expensive and least effective.Salt Health's direct primary care model flips this paradigm. Members pay a monthly fee for access to comprehensive care without copays, deductibles, or rushed appointments. But what truly sets them apart is their holistic approach: a primary care physician, nurse practitioner, dietician, and health coach all work together as a team, with a full fitness facility and spa amenities included in membership. This integrated wellness ecosystem addresses health from every angle.The model particularly resonates with adults between 35-50, who find themselves at a crucial intersection—concerned about their aging parents, setting examples for their children, and increasingly aware of their own health. These individuals recognize that investing in prevention now costs far less than treating chronic conditions later. As Jordan notes, over 90% of America's multi-trillion dollar healthcare spending goes toward managing chronic diseases that often could have been prevented.Northwest Arkansas proved the perfect location for this healthcare revolution, with its community emphasis on wellness, outdoor activities, and health-conscious living. The response has been so enthusiastic that Salt Health currently maintains a waiting list for new members.Ready to experience healthcare that truly prioritizes your wellbeing? Visit salt-health.com to learn more about membership options or specialized health packages designed to identify problems before they become emergencies.
Ever wondered how the age of bourbon can transform a classic cocktail? Join us on the B-Team Podcast as we chat with bourbon aficionado Russ, who unpacks the enigmatic backstory of Frank August, a Kentucky-born bourbon that intrigues us with its notes of cinnamon, clove, and stone fruit. Discover why Frank August’s youthful charm is perfect for Manhattans and Old Fashioneds, and how even your nostrils have their own role to play in this sensory adventure. Through lively discussions, Russ sheds light on how factors like weather can change your palate, making each bourbon experience unique.The thrill isn't just in the taste—it's in the discovery. We relive the moment of uncovering a hidden single-barrel whiskey gem stashed behind the counter in Jane, MO, and the excitement it brought to our whiskey journey. As we transition from small batch to the nuanced world of single barrel, camaraderie and shared passion take center stage. We cap off the episode with birthday cheers and the promise of more shared experiences, proving that whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, there's always something new to savor in the world of bourbon.
A culinary revelation has arrived in Bentonville, and the B-Team couldn't wait to sink their teeth into it. Meet Jason, owner of Goodcents Subs, who's brought this Kansas City-born sandwich shop to Northwest Arkansas just five days before joining us in the studio—complete with an impressive spread that left our hosts speechless (and stuffed).The magic starts with the bread—pillowy soft and baked fresh daily in three varieties. The Garlic Pepper bread quickly emerged as a favorite, delivering bold flavor without needing additional toppings. Even our most critical hosts—those with East Coast Italian roots who typically dress their sandwiches with every condiment available—were astounded by how delicious these subs tasted completely unadorned.But Goodcents isn't just another sandwich shop. Their pasta offerings—Buffalo Chicken, Chicken Alfredo, and Meatball—became instant showstoppers at just $7.99 per generous portion. "I was not expecting that," admitted Josh, our resident Italian meatball expert, as he went back for seconds.What truly distinguishes Goodcents from its competitors is its remarkable value. Signature 16-inch subs start at just $13.49, with classic options even more affordable. Their catering options, including boxed lunches and party platters of 4-inch sandwiches, make feeding a crowd both easy and economical.Located at 2508 Walton Boulevard (next to Love's Donuts), Goodcents represents Jason's passion project after previously opening a popular breakfast restaurant in Bentonville. With 14 employees already on staff and plans to expand to Bella Vista, Pea Ridge, and Rogers, this sandwich sensation is just getting started.Ready to try it yourself? Mention the B-Team Podcast when you visit Goodcents Subs for 10% off your order! After tasting everything from their Italian sub to their meatball pasta, we're confident you'll become regulars just like we plan to be.
From teaching kids to defend themselves against potential threats to helping law enforcement officers handle tense situations more effectively, martial arts training carries profound benefits that extend far beyond the mat. Kaleb, founder of Inferno Martial Arts, joins the B-Team Podcast to share his remarkable journey from passionate practitioner to successful business owner. What started in 2003 as training sessions in a literal tool shed has blossomed into five thriving locations across Northwest Arkansas, serving everyone from toddlers to senior citizens.The conversation explores the careful balance of teaching potentially dangerous skills while instilling the responsibility that must accompany them. For children, martial arts creates valuable muscle memory for high-stress situations. When someone attempts to pin them down, they don't freeze with fear - they've practiced escaping similar positions hundreds of times in a controlled environment. This preparation addresses a critical gap in traditional safety education.For adults, martial arts offers physical fitness coupled with mental engagement and community. Jiu-jitsu has become particularly popular among older demographics because of its lower impact on the body while still providing effective self-defense training. The "executive class" at Inferno demonstrates this appeal, attracting professionals in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.The most compelling insights come when Kaleb breaks down fundamental self-defense principles everyone should know: turn your hips toward danger, target vulnerable areas like eyes and throat, and understand that controlled training creates cooler, calmer responses to threat. His light-hearted "Dragon" story - about an overly confident newcomer learning humility - perfectly illustrates why proper training matters.Whether you're considering martial arts for your children, yourself, or simply curious about effective self-defense, this episode delivers practical wisdom with entertaining stories from the mat. Ready to learn how to protect yourself and move toward challenges rather than away from them? This conversation is your perfect starting point.
Dive deep with us into the amber-hued world of premium bourbon as we savor Yellowstone's exceptional 2023 limited release. This remarkable expression combines 7, 13, and 16-year-old whiskeys finished in Hungarian dessert wine barrels, creating a uniquely sweet profile that stands head and shoulders above standard offerings.Beyond just appreciating fine spirits, we explore the meaningful conservation efforts behind the Yellowstone brand, which donated a quarter-million dollars last year to preserve the national treasure that shares its name. It's a reminder that great bourbon can support great causes.The conversation takes a fascinating turn as we unpack the mysteries of cold chill filtration. Ever wondered why some bourbons cloud when you add water while others remain crystal clear? We break down how this common production process affects everything from mouthfeel to flavor complexity, and why bourbon enthusiasts often seek out non-chill filtered expressions for their richer character.We're witnessing a significant shift in the bourbon landscape—what we call the "neutral zone." Where allocated bottles once disappeared instantly, many premium expressions now linger on shelves. The shocking price variations we've discovered (from $46 to $80 for the same bottle of Henry McKenna, depending on where you shop) highlight the unpredictable nature of today's market. For collectors and casual drinkers alike, this cooling period offers unique opportunities to access previously elusive bottles.Pour yourself something special and join the B-Team for this spirited conversation about exceptional bourbon, production techniques, and market insights that will enhance your appreciation of America's native spirit. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just bourbon-curious, there's something here to elevate your next drinking experience.
Northwest Arkansas is in the midst of a historic transformation, and few people have witnessed this evolution as intimately as Steve Lane. From his early days as a Walmart engineer in 1992 to his current role as Managing Director at Colliers, Steve has had a front-row seat to the region's explosive growth—and played a significant role in shaping it.When Steve arrived in Northwest Arkansas, the combined population of Benton and Washington counties barely reached 180,000. Today, that number approaches 600,000 and continues to climb with approximately 1,500 new residents arriving monthly. What's driving this remarkable growth? As Steve reveals, Northwest Arkansas has evolved far beyond its identity as Walmart's hometown.The crown jewel of recent development is Walmart's new 350-acre home office campus, which Steve describes as "a new city within Northwest Arkansas." Beyond Walmart, multiple growth engines now power the region. The Walton family's investments in mountain biking trails have created what Steve calls "the mountain bike culture" of Northwest Arkansas—a year-round outdoor recreation scene that rivals destinations like Austin and Nashville. Major healthcare expansions are bringing specialized medical professionals and the estimated 20 supporting jobs each physician creates. Meanwhile, cultural assets like Crystal Bridges Museum have put Northwest Arkansas on the national map.Perhaps most telling is how the nature of migration to Northwest Arkansas has changed. "We used to laugh that it was like band camp—people would come for two years and then leave," Steve recalls. "Now people are moving in saying, 'I lived in Denver and could live anywhere I wanted.'" This shift from temporary corporate transplants to intentional residents seeking quality of life represents a fundamental evolution in the region's growth story.What's next for Northwest Arkansas? Steve points to emerging opportunities in Bella Vista, Southern Missouri, and Eastern Oklahoma as the region's influence expands beyond traditional boundaries. With Northwest Arkansas poised to enter the top 100 metropolitan statistical areas in the coming years, the remarkable growth story shows no signs of slowing down.Ready to discover why Northwest Arkansas has become America's fastest-growing region? Tune in to hear Steve Lane's insider perspective on this extraordinary transformation.