O Lala! (In RVA)

This episode is giving empowerment, vulnerability, AND a little unhinged fun 💅In honor of women's history month: we’re joined by the incredible Sarah Bonney, founder of She Kicks VA — a community bringing women together through martial arts, confidence, and straight-up badass energy.We dive into:🥊 How martial arts builds confidence (inside AND outside the ring)💔 Turning trauma into purpose and creating safer spaces for women👯‍♀️ Why training with women hits different💭 What being a “strong woman” actually means (this one hits)AND of course…🎤 Drop It On Us, Big Daddy!We’re diving into RVA’s karaoke scene 🎶From wild nights to hidden gems, here’s where you can grab a mic:🎤 Sticky Rice🎤 Caddy’s Karaoke Bar & Grill🎤 Sine Irish Pub🎤 Barcode🎤 Babes of Carytown🎤 Get Tight Lounge🎤 Thirsty’s🎤 Lakeside Tavern🎤 Wonderland🎤 My Noodle & Bar🎤 Random iconic karaoke moment at Barboursville (we were THERE 😂)We also break down the origin of karaoke (yes, it’s actually fascinating) and why singing your heart out is basically therapy.📅 RVA Events We’re Loving🐰 Dominion Energy Family Easter at Maymont🤠 Bombshell at The Ranch (Midlothian)Whether you’re trying to be artsy, wholesome, or ready to black out and sing… we got you.🗣️ ShoutoutsMelanie Eaton Photography 📸Ashley Sanchez (hair) 💇‍♀️Amanda Cook (makeup) 💄LVLUP Combat Club + MJ 🥊

This week we’re joined by Nan and Kam from Sports Backers, the Richmond nonprofit behind some of the city’s most iconic fitness events like the Monument Avenue 10K, Richmond Marathon, and Dominion Energy Riverrock.Nan (PR & Communications Manager) and Kam (Social Media Strategist) share what it’s like working behind the scenes of these massive community events and how Sports Backers has helped build Richmond’s active culture. From organizing races with tens of thousands of runners to managing social media, volunteers, and race-day logistics, they give us a look at what it really takes to pull these events off.We talk about the incredible energy of the Monument Avenue 10K, why it feels like Richmond’s biggest block party, and some of the funniest costumes people have worn during the race. Nan and Kam also share race-day tips for runners, plus some of their favorite Richmond restaurants and post-run brunch spots.The girls also host their own podcast, On the Move with Nan & Kam, where they highlight Richmond events, active lifestyles, and stories from the local fitness community.Along the way we also discuss upcoming St. Patrick’s Day events around RVA, take a look at the new Flying Squirrels stadium at CarMax Park, and announce our $50 Harry’s Sing-Along Brunch giveaway (follow along on our Instagram feed and stories for the rules and how to enter. Winner will be announced later this month).It’s a fun conversation about Richmond culture, community, and the events that bring the city together.

This week we sit down with Erika — Sales & Marketing Manager at Tobacco Company, VCU marketing grad, Canva Queen, and full-time nightlife girly.She shares:How she went from corporate cold-calling to curating Richmond cultureThe history (and near-death moments) of Tobacco CompanyFriday vs. Saturday club vibesVIP birthday perksWinter White Party chaosAnd why the bathroom mirror selfie is mandatoryUpstairs: steak dinners and anniversaries. Downstairs: espresso martini shooters and early-2000s bangers. Duality.Support Tobacco Company: https://www.thetobaccocompany.com/@tobaccocorvahttps://www.facebook.com/TobaccoCoDine/Follow Erika:@erikawaszak🌿 Big Daddy SegmentWe also break down Virginia’s move toward a regulated recreational marijuana market and what it could mean for the economy. Yes, stimulated economy jokes included.We also gush (again) about Harry's at Hofheimer and their Sing-Along Brunch — not just a meal, but a full-room main-character experience. DJs spinning nostalgic hits, strangers becoming backup vocalists, espresso martinis flowing, and the entire room committed to the bit. It’s chaotic in the best way and peak Richmond energy.We also want to give the biggest shoutout to Melanie Eaton, a Richmond-based luxury fashion, boudoir, and branding photographer who is truly redefining what confidence looks like behind (and in front of) the camera. Through her artistry and her ME Program, Melanie creates spaces where women feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. Her work blends editorial edge with heartfelt intention, and the community she’s built is just as beautiful as the images she captures. RVA is lucky to have her creative energy!Be sure to follow us for more great episodes! https://linktr.ee/olala_rva

This week, we’re joined by Keith Bryan, Richmond-area native, Navy veteran, licensed pilot, and President & Managing Partner of HOVA Flight Services RVA at Hanover County Airport. From fueling planes at the very beginning of his career to helping lead one of Central Virginia’s most important (and underrated) aviation hubs, Keith’s story is all about passion, persistence, and staying deeply rooted in the RVA community.We dive into:How Keith got into aviation and his journey through the U.S. NavyLife on aircraft carriers (catapults, close calls, and unforgettable moments at sea)What actually happens at Hanover County Airport day to dayWhy small airports quietly bring millions into the RVA economyCelebrity sightings, private jets, and why some famous folks avoid RIC 👀Why flying is still safer than driving (yes, really)What it actually takes—time, money, and dedication—to become a pilotHow HOVA and PRK Aviation give back to the Richmond and Hanover communitiesWe also talk Richmond’s evolution over the years, aviation egos, airport drama (it’s real), and why general aviation keeps things personal instead of sterile.Support HOVA Flight Services:@flyHOVAhttps://www.facebook.com/FlyHOVA💥 Drop It On Us, Big Daddy: Big Daddy breaks down a headline-making local story involving Richmond Mayor Danny Avula and his use of ChatGPT.Plus: ✨Business of the Week: HOVA Flight Services RVA 🎶Show of the Week: Flying Legends of Victory Tour (stay tuned for actual dates)If you’ve ever driven past Hanover County Airport and wondered what goes on behind the scenes—or if you love learning how RVA really works—this episode is for you.Band of the Week: Poston Brown - Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Snoop DoggAlso check out Adult Recess at Ember Music Hall from 4-9PM (30+ day time clubbing) Jan 31st🎧 Buckle up. It’s a smooth takeoff.

Happy New Year, besties 💖 We’re kicking off the year with an episode that’s equal parts sweet, inspiring, and very RVA.This week we sit down with Fabrizio & Ximena, the new owners of PACHA Spoonables, a Richmond-based Peruvian dessert brand serving up spoonable treats rooted in culture, family, and flavor. Think cozy desserts, rich traditions, and desserts so good they’ll make you rethink everything you know about chocolate cake 🍫✨🍰 In This Episode:How PACHA Spoonables was born from family recipes and Peruvian prideWhat makes “spoonable” desserts the perfect intro to a new food culturePeruvian dessert favoritesBuilding a business as a family (yes, mom is the chef 👑)Why Richmond is the perfect place for global flavors to thriveFuture plans: seasonal flavors, events, coffee dreams, and more🇵🇪 Plus… Peruvian Trivia!We test everyone’s knowledge with fun facts about:Peru as a global culinary capital3,000+ varieties of potatoes 🥔Pisco sours, Machu Picchu, and iconic Latin desserts🗓️ RVA Events & Community:Lima Fest (Jan 18 & 19) – Richmond’s Peruvian cultural festival with food, music, dancing, and local vendors (yes, Pacha Spoonables will be there!)Show of the Week: 🎼 Let’s Groove Tonight with the Richmond Symphony📍 Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center📅 Friday, Feb 20 @ 7 PMMotown classics + full orchestra = classy with a funky twist✨ New Year, New You (But Make It Realistic):We also dive into:Wild New Year’s resolution stats (spoiler: most people quit 👀)How to actually stick to your goalsTrending 2026 resolutions like:Micro-joy journalingDigital detoxes (in small doses, don’t panic)Functional fitness over burnout workoutsFrom fitness goals and boundaries to weddings, martial arts, and learning to say no — this episode is full of laughs, honesty, and feel-good motivation.💕 Support PACHA Spoonables:Facebook | Instagram | OrderingOrders close Tuesdays | Deliveries Fridays 📍 Catch them at Lima Fest & upcoming RVA eventsAs always — thanks for listening, supporting local, and starting the year with us 💖

It’s the final episode of the year and we’re going out sparkly, chaotic, and very on brand ✨ This week, we’re joined by the incredible Melanie Eaton (Helms), Richmond-based luxury fashion, boudoir, and branding photographer, plus ME Program member Hannah, for a conversation about confidence, creativity, community, and taking bold artistic risks.We talk disposable cameras, Barbie shoots, Vikings, mermaids, snakes (yes, real ones), and why overthinking is the hardest thing to photograph. PLUS—Big Daddy brings us some truly unhinged Bad Santa crimes, and we round things out with high-key and low-key New Year’s Eve plans around Richmond.💖 This Episode Includes:✨ Main Character vs. Delulu Era energy check for 2025📸 Melanie Eaton’s journey from disposable cameras to high-end editorial photography👑 What confidence really looks like—and how to fake it until it sticks🤍 Inside The ME Program: empowerment, community, and hype-girl energy💄 Barbie shoots, Secret Gardens, Vikings, Sirens, Marie Antoinette, and creative chaos🐍 A photoshoot featuring a REAL snake (and facing fears)🎥 Why community matters more than perfection🏗️ Melanie’s upcoming studio glow-up🎅 Big Daddy’s Bad Santa Crimes (marijuana Santa, chimney Santa, Santa brawls)🥂 New Year’s Eve in RVA: high-key parties and soft-life options🎉 New Year’s Eve Events We Cover:High-KeyMidnight in Manhattan at Harry’s at the Hofheimer (Follow us on instagram for 1/2 off ticket prices on this one!!!)Y2K NYE Bash at Ember Music HallRoyal Masquerade Ball at The FoundationLow-Key / Soft LifeCarytown dinner + strollWine flights at Brambly ParkArtsy NYE at the VMFA🌸 Guest Info:Instagram: @melanieeatonphotoFacebook: @melanieeatonphotoWebsite: https://melanieeatonphotography.com/Bookings for 2026 are OPEN 👀✨As always—thank you for listening, laughing, and being part of our corner of RVA 💕 See you next year, besties 🥂✨ and be sure to follow us!

This week on O Lala in RVA, we’re sitting down with someone who truly helped shape how Richmond sees itself — Juan Conde. Journalist. Broadcaster. Community voice. Motorcycle enthusiast. And yes… that voice you’ve trusted for decades.From his early days in radio to 22 years behind the anchor desk, Juan has covered some of the most defining moments of our time — and he’s got the stories (and perspective) to prove it. We talk journalism, trust, the evolution of local news, and what it really takes to stay credible in an age of constant noise. Plus, Juan spills just enough about a very mysterious radio comeback 👀.And because it is O Lala — we also get festive, nostalgic, a little unhinged, and very Richmond.✨ In This Episode:Juan’s journey from Brooklyn → DC → RVAHow he landed a TV anchor job without traditional newsroom trainingWhat’s changed (and what’s been lost) in local journalismCovering major events like 9/11, the DC Sniper case, hurricanes, and tragedies close to homeWhy there is no such thing as unbiased news — and how to work responsibly anywayThe power of saying “no” in your career 💅What viewers don’t realize about producing daily local newsBeing recognized, stalked, praised, and misunderstood in a public-facing roleThe moment Juan knew it was time to walk away from TVJournalism vs. theater (and why authenticity always wins)Life after the anchor desk: commercial real estate, PBS work, and consultingThat tease 👀 — Juan’s limited-run return to radioHis favorite holiday traditions, RVA nostalgia, and why this city still feels like home🎄 Holiday Side Quests:Because we cannot stay serious for too long…Christmas tree trivia 🌲The pickle ornament tradition 🥒Drunk tree decorating (a classic)Tacky light tours gone very wrongFavorite Richmond holiday pop-up bars:Miracle on CaryCandy Cane Lane at MosaicTiz the Season at TerranceMy Noodle & Bar (surprise cozy queen)Black Lodge, Common House, and more🔍 Follow Juan:Facebook: Juan CondeInstagram: @juan_condé_rva (lurking > posting)Catch Juan on PBS National during fundraising campaignsKeep an eye out for updates on his upcoming radio project 👀

Richmond’s favorite caricature artist, Eric Vineyard, joins O Lala! in RVA to spill all the messy, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt details of life as a traveling caricature artist. From sketching drunk wedding guests to the day he accidentally gave a ride to someone picking up crack, Eric keeps it brutally honest and painfully funny.Eric opens up about getting fired (a lot), learning the ropes at Busch Gardens, getting banned for “Irish coffee mishaps,” and eventually becoming RVA’s go-to caricature artist on his own terms. He talks about his love-hate relationship with weddings, his wildest fairground moments, and why he’ll always draw you better if you just look up from your phone.We also play “Would You Draw This?”, where Eric tells us which requests he’d sketch sober, skip entirely, or only do if drunk — from toddlers mid-tantrum to couples with questionable poses.Follow Eric:https://www.instagram.com/ericscaricatureshttps://ericscaricatures.comPlus:🐒 Big Daddy’s Drop It On Us: The escaped monkey saga in Mississippi (herpes, COVID rumors, and all)🎄 Upcoming RVA events — from GardenFest of Lights to Thanksgiving dinner spots and River City Roll & Rave🎁 Business of the Week: The Shops at 5807 — your one-stop, last-minute gift haven🎸 Band of the Week: Richmond’s own What’s Our Age Again🍸 Shoutouts to local icons, cake artists, new restaurants, and all the Christmas pop-up bars lighting up RVAGrab a gobbler from Wawa, pour a little whiskey (but maybe don’t draw after), and enjoy this sweet, sketch-filled episode with RVA’s funniest grump and most talented doodler.

O Lala! (In RVA) gets spooky with a special Halloween edition featuring author and journalist Catherine Baab — whose book Poe for Your Problems turned Edgar Allan Poe into an unlikely self-help icon. Now she’s back at it with her upcoming project, Gothic Glow-Up: Mary Shelley’s Guide to Stitching Yourself Back Together.We talk Frankenstein, free love, grief, genius, and the surprisingly messy (and sexy?) lives of 19th-century writers. It’s brains, bangers, and a whole lot of gothic gossip — perfect for a cozy October listen.Then, Big Voodoo Daddy drops his “Big Daddy Topic” — the eerie origins of trick-or-treating and the world’s weirdest Halloween traditions (yes, some countries hide their knives 👀). We also highlight a spooky Richmond band, a bold new Carytown boutique, and all the Halloween happenings you don’t wanna miss.🧠 Topics We CoverCat’s upcoming book Gothic Glow-Up and her deep dive into Mary Shelley’s lifeWhy Shelley’s husband Percy was the ultimate gothic f-boyHow grief, trauma, and genius collide in FrankensteinGothic trivia showdown (Olivia vs. Big Daddy — who wins?)The eerie history of trick-or-treating and Halloween across the globeLocal RVA shoutouts: from the Broadberry’s Halloween Bash to the return of the Gunhole (yes, that Gunhole)Our Band of the Week: WindhandOur Business of the Week: Hiss Off, a Harajuku-inspired boutique in Carytown💀 Guest Spotlight: Cat Baab🖤 Author of Poe for Your Problems 📖 Working on Gothic Glow-Up (coming soon!) 💬 Find her at @authorcatherinebaab 👻 Follow her on Facebook for gothic humor and literary musings.🍸 Local ShoutoutsWindhand — Doom metal darlings of RVAHiss Off — Vintage goth-meets-Y2K boutique by Sophie Smith (behind Can Can)Reveler at Carytown — Hosting The Embalmers & Crack Fox this HalloweenRed Vein Haunted House — Our favorite haunted hangout (VIP tickets = worth it)The Gunhole at The Valentine Museum — She’s back, baby!

O Lala! This week we’re joined by Charles Inch—a criminal trial lawyer turned nervous system strategist who’s showing us how the body really holds stress and how to reset it. From murder trials to one-wheeling through RVA, Charles has seen it all and created the Neuro-Somatic Reset to help people break free from trauma and find clarity.We chat about:✨ What happens in the body during stress + freeze mode✨ How the Vegas shooting became a turning point in his life✨ His vision for Holistic Life Studios + “preventative law”✨ Singing with the Richmond Symphony + Jeep rebuildingSupport Charles:inchlawva.comHis YouTube ChannelHis OfficeHis LinkedInPlus, you know we’ve got:🍸 Big Daddy Drops It On Us – our first taste of the new Cirrus Vodka room in Scott’s Addition📍 Business of the Week – Brittany Anderson’s new spot Bar Buoy🎶 Show of the Week – Cheap Shot live at The Great American RanchGrab a martini (truffled if you’re fancy) and dive in—it’s deep, it’s goofy, it’s RVA. And don't forget to give us a follow, like and share!

This week we pop the cork on an unforgettable episode featuring Deon Abrams of Grayhaven Winery. From his wild days in South Africa (motorcycles, military escapades, and sneaking back into base disguised as a visitor 👀) to bringing South Africa’s signature grape, Pinotage, to Virginia, Deon’s story is equal parts action, romance, and wine-fueled comedy.✨ What’s Inside This Episode:🍇 Deon’s journey from Johannesburg → New York → Virginia wine country🥂 Pinotage explained (and why it’s so special to Grayhaven)🌍 The South African Food & Wine Festival: tribal dancing, drumming, peri-peri chicken, and unlimited tastings🛠️ Deon’s “MacGyver” moments keeping vintages alive with duct tape, chainsaws, and sheer charm🌡️ How Virginia’s climate (and the occasional hurricane) makes or breaks a vintage🎶 The hosts spill on their experiences at the new RVA amphitheater—the good, the muddy, and the $14 pretzel💡 Plus:Our Business of the Week: Grayhaven Winery (of course!)Upcoming RVA events you can’t miss—Iron Blossom Music Festival, R&B Fest, drag spectacular “Work the World,” and moreShow of the Week: Almost Queen, a killer Queen tribute band that will rock you 💃Shoutouts to crispy cones, ABBA tributes, and (thankfully avoided) flesh-eating bacteria 🫠👉 Tickets for the South African Food & Wine Festival: https://southafricanwinefestival.com/🍷 Follow Grayhaven Winery on Instagram + Facebook to keep up with Deon, Max, and the magic.https://grayhavenwinery.com/https://www.instagram.com/grayhavenwineryhttps://www.facebook.com/grayhaven.winery🎧 And don’t forget to give us a follow! https://linktr.ee/olala_rva

In this episode of O Lala in RVA, we welcome Richmond legend and Filipino-American hip-hop artist Noah O. From his roots in California to becoming a central figure in RVA’s arts scene, Noah shares his journey through music, entrepreneurship, and community activism. We dive into his career beginnings, his indie label and flagship store Charged Up Entertainment, and the powerful mission behind his work.Support Noah O:https://www.instagram.com/chargedupnoaho/https://noah-o.com/https://www.facebook.com/ChargedUpNoahOhttps://www.youtube.com/ChargedUpEnthttps://x.com/ChargedUpNoahOhttps://www.tiktok.com/@chargedupnoahoBig Daddy’s “Drop It On Us” SegmentTop trending 2025 international travel destinations!Business of the WeekCharged Up – 106 W Broad St, Richmond, VA Flagship store, cultural hub, and home base for Noah O’s brand. Shop exclusive merch, discover local music, and experience RVA’s creative energy.Band of the WeekSide Piece – eclectic mix of classic rock, country, hip-hop, and funk.ShoutoutsBOLO’s Eatery – new brewpub in Manchester with rooftop views.Duke’s Mayonnaise, Garnet’s Café, KOA Campground Shenendoah – for keeping summer tasty and adventurous.Make sure to follow us!

This week, we’re lacing up and leveling up! Coach MJ, founder of RVA Kicks Club (and our literal fitness savior), joins the pod to talk kickboxing, self-defense, and why getting punched might just change your life—in a good way.We talk:How MJ turned street fights into a full-blown fitness careerThe real difference between boxing, kickboxing, and MMAWhy women’s sparring events are everythingWhat makes RVA Kicks so differentPlus, your fave O Lala chaos:💥 Fight or Flight game (Crocs, choreography, & ice baths)📚 Big Daddy’s Trivia Drop: contact lenses in the ring + ancient Greek throw-downs🎉 Local Event Picks: RVA Weens trivia night, JamPacked Festival, and more🛍️ Business of the Week: Kindhearted Goods in Church Hill🎶 Show of the Week: Steely Dead at The Broadberry (Yacht Rock meets Deadheads)🍳 Restaurant Watch: Daisy’s at Tredegar is coming in hot near The AltriaMJ changed our lives (and resting heart rates). Listen in, then go take his class—just tell him O Lala sent you 💪💚 Support RVA Kicks ClubWebsite: https://www.rvakicksclub.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561382486328📍 Self-Made Training Facility – 1331 Carmia Way💬 DM to book class or personal training—affordable, real, and full of heartFollow us too: https://linktr.ee/olala_rva

We hit the green (and the glam) with Richmond powerhouse Leslie Marie Mosley—founder of Ladies Golf Too, host of American Dream TV, and certified vibe curator. She shares how she built a thriving, beginner-friendly golf community for women, her journey into TV, and why pickleball might just be your next obsession.💬 Plus: – How she makes golf approachable, inclusive, and fabulous – Her fave events (Bougie Movie Night + Golfer’s Giving = goals) – Tea from House Hunters + Real Housewives run-ins (👀) – Why Richmond is in its ✨ “new era” ✨ – The caviar-level event you’ll want to crash later this month 👀📍 Business Shoutouts:Ladies Golf Too – @officialladiesgolftooGiorno Market – dreamy Italian market in Church HillThe Underground Kitchen – culinary magic with heartRVA Kicks Club – kickboxing, strength, sauna, and sparringThe Hoffheimer – candlelight acoustic vibes + open mic dreamsNew Kent Winery – wine & music = perfect summer comboLucky in Love Chapel – RVA’s new Vegas-style wedding spotBen’s Barbershop – fresh cuts in Church HillMain Line Brewery – local music + great pours🎶 Band of the Week: The Prabir Trio – Indian-inspired rock with RVA roots🗓️ Events Rundown: – Watermelon Fest, Anime Con, Dragon Boats, Peach Fest, and more – Waitress: The Musical now showing at Virginia Rep – Shagwüf + Sweet Tooth playing with Prabir Trio July 24 @ Broadberry👉 Follow us @olalainrva and hit that follow button wherever you listen. 💗 Rate, review, and share with someone fabulous.

This week on the pod: We sit down with true Renaissance man Alan Pell Crawford—author, journalist, private investigator, and founding member of The Hambiscuits. From writing for The Washington Post during the Watergate era to covering Capitol Hill, going undercover as a private investigator, and starting a bluesy jazz band with a nod to NOLA later in life, Alan’s journey is anything but ordinary.✨ Hear about:His path from Indiana to Richmond via D.C. and The Martin AgencyWriting for The Wall Street Journal, Vogue, National Review, and moreHis undercover P.I. days (yes, folding hospital towels was involved)His latest book This Fierce People, plus other favorites like Twilight at MonticelloThe origin of The Hambiscuits and their vintage soundA fun George Harrison story you’ve probably never heardTips on taking creative leaps—and making them count📚 Order Alan's books here! 💅 Big Daddy's Glow-Up Guide to Tanning: Base tans, tingle lotions, bronzers, and what “tanorexia” really means. Plus, why SPF 30 should be your ride or die.🎶 Events in RVA:Friday Cheers (6/27): Say She She – soul, funk, and good vibesCocktails & Kittens (6/29) @ Virago Spirits – $20 for cuddles & cocktailsGrateful for Biggie (7/26) @ Ember Music Hall – Grateful Dead x Biggie mashupWest Broad Concert (7/5): Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute, free!Red, White & Lights (7/4) @ Crump Park – Symphony, fireworks, & laser show📚 Business of the Week: Brian’s Books in Church Hill – Used & vintage gems, most under $10!🎸 Band of the Week: The Hambiscuits! Catch them July 1st & 22nd @ Bryan Park Bar & Grill.💖 Shoutouts: Mainline Brewery, Radar Theory, Ryan (Liz’s IT guy), Tim & Ned Crawford, and Trouvaille Restaurant—don’t miss their short ribs and ever-changing farm-to-table menu!👀 Next week: Ladies Golf Too! 📲 Follow us @OLala_RVA & DM us if you want to be a guest or shout out your band.

This week, we chat with our friend Alejandro, a Cuban immigrant, about his incredible journey to Richmond, VA. He shares the hurdles of getting a US visa, the culture shock of abundance in America, and his efforts to support his family in Cuba.Episode Highlights: ✨Visa Interview Strategy: Alejandro shares his unique approach to a successful visa interview, emphasizing showing intent to return home. ☕️A Five-Year Visa?! Discover how Alejandro secured a rare five-year visa! 🤩Costco Culture Shock: Alejandro recounts his "mind-blowing" first trip to Costco, highlighting the contrast in food availability compared to Cuba. 🤯Conscious Living: Learn about Alejandro's heightened awareness of waste and gratitude for resources, stemming from his upbringing where rationing was a reality. 🙏Supporting Family in Cuba: Alejandro discusses regularly sending essential items to his family in Cuba. ❤️The Cuban Exodus: He touches on the pervasive theme of immigration in Cuban society. 🌍Internet Access in Cuba: Alejandro clarifies the current state of internet access in Cuba, noting its cost and limitations. 📶Family's Hopes for the US: Hear about his family's interest in moving to the United States and the complexities of the legal immigration process. 📜"Wet-Foot, Dry-Foot" Policy: A brief mention of this controversial policy and its impact on Cuban immigration. ⚖️Also Featured: 🤩Exercise Equipment Origins: Learn the surprising history behind common gym equipment like the treadmill (originally a torture device!), kettlebells, medicine balls, and dumbbells. 🏋️Local Richmond Events: Get the scoop on upcoming events! 🎉Carytown Sidewalk Sale 🛍️Pride Night at the Diamond ⚾️🌈Drag Brunch at The Hof Garden 👑Nappy Roots at the Ember Music Hall 🎤Pride on Forest Hill 🌳🌈Ribs and Reds at Ashton Creek Vineyards for Father's Day! 🍖🍷Band of the Week: This week's featured band is Radar Theory, a raw rock and roll band. 🎸Business of the Week: Shout out to Still Life Studio RVA, a new pottery place in Scott's Addition. 🏺Brewery Updates: Updates on Lickinghole Creek Brewery and Hardywood opening a new spot at the airport. 🍻Fitness Shout-out: A special mention for RVA Kicks Club and MJ, a trainer at Self Made Training Facility. 💪Father's Day Appreciation: A heartfelt shout-out to all the dads! 🙌Garden Grove Closing: A bittersweet announcement about Garden Grove brewery shutting down after 10 years. 😢Upcoming Episode Tease: A sneak peek at the next episode featuring Alan an RVA author and musician with The Ham Biscuits!

In this lively episode, Liz and Big Daddy sit down to share their "rose and thorn" moments from the past few weeks—celebrating the highs and unpacking the lows with their funny but honest takes. The couple then turns up the fun with a married couple game that reveals just how well they really know each other.Listeners also get an update on the Drop it On Us, Big Daddy segment, where Big Daddy dishes out his takes on the continuing drama surrounding Fyre Fest 2, the ongoing drama with Carytown Burgers and Fries, and upcoming developments surrounding Brown’s Island. The duo shares exciting news about upcoming events and dive into what’s so yummy about the business of the week, Slay Burger.To top it all off, the show of the week is a nostalgic nod to the 90s with The White Ford Bronco concert Saturday May 3rd at The Broadberry—expect some major throwback vibes and musical memories.Tune in for laughs, love, business buzz, and a little 90s magic!Shoutouts: Ronnie's BBQ, Chez Nous, Diva NailsOther businesses mentioned: The Shockoe Institute, Ballast RVA, Cirrus Vodka, Yellow Umbrella Provisions, Slack Tide Fish Company

✨ This Episode’s Vibe: Rabbi Patrick, the founder of Kehillah RVA, joins us to talk about building welcoming Jewish spaces, making rituals approachable, and what it means to be part of a modern faith community—especially in a city like Richmond.💬 What We Cover:Creating spiritual spaces that center around belongingWhy Kehillah doesn’t look or feel like your typical synagogue—and why that’s the pointIntergenerational wisdom, parenting through a Jewish lens, and letting kids explore their own pathsOfficiating weddings and making room for personal meaning in old traditionsPollen complaints, park hangs, and some love for local RVA events🎧 Whether you’re deep into your faith, figuring it out, or just here for the community vibes—this episode invites you to rethink what spiritual connection can look like.Support Kehillah:https://kehillahrva.org/https://www.facebook.com/kehillahrvahttps://www.instagram.com/KehillahRVA/Businesses Of The Week:Allianz Amphitheater (opens this June!)RVA's BeaucoupPetit Four