Hello Hello

Epizodai

• 
  Feeding Kids, Building Community: The Story Behind Clarksville's Backpack Buddies 16.09.2026 22min

  What happens when the school cafeteria closes on Friday—but a child still needs to eat all weekend? In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers visits St. Timothy's Episcopal Church in Clarksville, Virginia, to sit down with Dottie Thaxton and Rebecca Brooks and learn about the community effort behind Backpack Buddies. The program began after Dottie learned about a similar initiative serving food-insecure children. What started with the thought that Clarksville might be able to help 10 children quickly grew into a community-wide effort involving local churches, volunteers and schools. The first year, Backpack Buddies provided weekend food for approximately 50 elementary students. Today, that number has grown to nearly 80 elementary students each week, with additional support reaching middle and high school students. Each Friday, children receive bags filled with shelf-stable milk, juice, pasta, vegetables, fruit, cereal, ramen, mac and cheese, snacks and other foods to help carry them through the weekend. The group has even begun working toward providing food during the summer when students don't have access to school meals. But keeping the program going takes an entire community. It costs approximately $275 per year to provide one child's bags, and supporting close to 80 elementary students requires more than $22,000. Volunteers donate money, purchase food, pack hundreds of bags and deliver them to the schools every week. And there is a very important date to put on your calendar: October 10 | 4–7 PM The fourth annual Oktoberfest fundraiser will feature German food, beer and wine, music, a silent auction, raffle items and more—all while raising money and awareness for Backpack Buddies and Feeding Our Kids. Tickets are $25, with advance purchase encouraged. Because, as Dottie says in this episode: "Kids need to eat." And when a community comes together, we can make sure they do. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  More Than a Gift Shop: The Heart Behind Main Street Art Collective 09.09.2026 13min

  What happens when you create a business around things that make people feel good, bring people together, and have a story behind them? In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers heads to Downtown Danville, Virginia, to visit Main Street Art Collective and sit down with owner Cheryl Sutherland. What started as Cheryl's dream of owning a gift shop has grown into something much bigger—a space filled with local artists and makers, one-of-a-kind gifts, classes, pop-ups, Danville treasures, and a community of people Cheryl has brought together over the last eight years. Cheryl shares how she finds the artists and makers featured throughout the store, why customers are increasingly drawn to gifts with meaning and a story, and how Main Street Art Collective has become a destination for both locals and visitors exploring a growing Downtown Danville. We also talk about the store's growing lineup of classes—from painting and knitting to sourdough bread making—as well as pop-ups and new ways Cheryl continues to bring people together. But one of the most meaningful moments comes when Cheryl talks about the future. When asked about her five-year plan, her answer is refreshingly simple: she doesn't know—and she's given herself permission to be okay with that. As long as the business continues bringing her joy, serving others, and feeling like the place she is meant to be, that's enough. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift, want to try something creative, or simply love discovering the people and businesses making our communities special, this is an episode you'll want to watch. Sign up for classes here: https://mainstreetartcollective.com/class-schedule Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  From One Little Red Building to a Lynchburg Icon: The Joe Bean's Story 02.09.2026 25min

  If you've spent any time in Lynchburg, Virginia, chances are you've driven past a little red building with a line wrapped around it—or you already have a Joe Bean's order you swear by. But do you know how it all started? For the first-ever Lynchburg business featured on the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Mike and Cheyenne from Joe Bean's to hear the story behind one of the area's most recognizable local businesses. The story begins in 1999 when owner Linda was on a fly-fishing trip in Montana and stopped at a tiny drive-thru coffee shop that had been converted from an old film-developing kiosk. Lynchburg didn't have drive-thru coffee at the time, and she came home thinking: Lynchburg needs one of these. In November 2000, the first bright-red Joe Bean's opened on Timberlake Road. More than 25 years later, that one little building has grown to eight locations, with conversations already happening about where location number nine could be. Mike and Cheyenne share the stories behind the growth, the people who make Joe Bean's what it is, their commitment to supporting other local businesses, and the internal mission that guides their team every day: "We deliver smiles." And, of course, we talk coffee! ☕️ From viral creations and year-round flavors to the September Butterscotch Brownie flavor of the month, Cheyenne and Mike share their personal Joe Bean's orders—and a few tips for finding your own. Whether Joe Bean's is already part of your morning routine or you've never been, this episode will make you appreciate the story behind that little red building even more. Check out the Joe Beans shop: https://www.joebeans.coffee/shop Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  6 Hours Without My Phone Changed My Perspective on Life 26.08.2026 20min

  What happens when you're forced to sit still for six hours—with no phone, no work, no distractions, and absolutely no control over your schedule? For Alyssa, an unexpected day of jury duty turned into one of the most eye-opening experiences she's had in a long time. In this solo episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa shares what happened when she reported for jury duty for a major local trial expecting to be dismissed quickly—only to spend nearly the entire day inside the courthouse without access to technology. At first, all she could think about were the meetings she was missing, the podcast she was supposed to record, childcare arrangements, work, and everything else waiting for her outside those courthouse doors. Then something unexpected happened. She started talking to people. Without phones to scroll, emails to answer, or notifications demanding attention, a room full of strangers began having actual conversations—about their families, jobs, weekends, favorite shows, and their lives. And somewhere in those six hours, Alyssa realized just how much technology may be taking away from the human connections happening right in front of us. The experience also brought an unexpected lesson in perspective. Everyone in that courthouse had somewhere else to be and something happening in their own life—some far more significant than a missed meeting or disrupted schedule. Sometimes the days that completely ruin our plans end up teaching us exactly what we needed to learn. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com
• 
  More Than a Stage: How Smokestack Theatre Is Creating a Place to Belong 19.08.2026 28min

  What if a theater could be more than a place to watch a show? What if it could become a place where people discover confidence, creativity, community—and somewhere they truly belong? In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers travels to Smokestack Theatre in Danville, Virginia, to sit down with Josh and Sarah and learn about the story, mission, and growing impact of this local theater. Josh shares how Smokestack was created with a vision that went far beyond producing great shows. From the beginning, the goal was to create opportunities for young people, welcome new faces into theater, and build a creative space where everyone could feel included. Today, more than 100 volunteers help bring that vision to life each year. Sarah also shares the powerful story of her son, Sam, who first came to Smokestack as an introverted young person looking for a place to fit in. Two years later, he's involved in multiple productions, working behind the scenes, developing new skills, building relationships, and growing in confidence. You'll also hear about upcoming productions like The Mousetrap, Smokestack's popular Haunted History Tours, improv, youth opportunities, sensory-friendly performances, volunteer opportunities, and the many ways you can get involved—even if stepping onto a stage isn't your thing. Whether you're an experienced performer, have a child looking for somewhere to belong, or simply want to support the arts in our region, there's a place for you at Smokestack. More information: https://thesmokestack.org/ Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  200+ Episodes, 4 Years & One Big Hello: The Story Behind Hello Hello 12.08.2026 25min

  Four years. More than 200 episodes. Countless conversations. And it all started with one microphone, a lot of nerves, and an idea to share the stories of people in our community. In this special anniversary episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers looks back at the journey that began on August 10, 2022, as the Rogers Radio Podcast and eventually became the show you know today as Hello Hello. Alyssa shares how her love of podcasts inspired her to start one of her own, why she initially questioned whether anyone would want to listen, how she landed her first guests, and the completely unplanned way the words "Hello, Hello" became her signature opening. Then, for the first time, longtime videographer Kenney steps out from behind the camera to talk about taking the podcast from audio to video, traveling across the region to tell stories on location, and what really goes into producing a new episode every single week. From Rogers Radio to Hello Hello, the name, cameras, locations, and look of the show may have changed—but its purpose hasn't: getting to know the people around us, promoting our communities, and giving local people and organizations a platform to tell their stories. Most importantly, this episode is a thank you to every guest, listener, viewer, business, organization, and community member who has been part of the last four years. Here's to the next 200 episodes. ❤️ Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Building a Better Halifax County: The New Kiwanis Club's Mission to Serve 05.08.2026 19min

  In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with the founding members of the newly established Kiwanis Club of Halifax County to discuss their mission of serving local youth, strengthening community partnerships, and creating lasting change throughout Halifax County. From mentoring children and supporting local nonprofits to volunteering at community events and dreaming big for the future, this passionate group shares why they chose to bring Kiwanis to Halifax County and how anyone can become part of the movement. The conversation also explores the importance of collaboration between civic organizations, businesses, and volunteers, proving that even one hour of your time can make a lasting impact on a child's life. In this episode: 🤝 What Kiwanis is and why it was brought to Halifax County ❤️ The club's mission to serve local youth 🌟 Upcoming volunteer opportunities and community partnerships 🏫 Supporting schools, families, and nonprofit organizations 💡 Big dreams for the future of Halifax County 🙌 How you can get involved If you've ever wanted to make a difference in your community but weren't sure where to start, this episode is for you. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  How Clarksville's Catfish Art Crawl Became a Labor Day Tradition 29.07.2026 12min

  What started as an idea to bring more people downtown has grown into one of Clarksville's most unique annual events. In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Karin Kuhn, the visionary behind the Catfish Art Crawl, and local artist Andrea Burke to discuss how the event has evolved over the past five years into a celebration of art, creativity, community, and local business. You'll learn how artists from across the region transform Clarksville into an outdoor gallery, how the competition works, and why the Catfish Art Crawl has become a Labor Day weekend tradition. The conversation also highlights the popular Bobber Drop fundraiser, where one lucky participant could take home $5,000 while supporting future community events. Whether you're an artist, a supporter of small businesses, or simply looking for a fun Labor Day weekend destination, this episode showcases everything that makes Clarksville such a special place. Purchase your bobbers here: https://clarksvilleva.com/bobber-drop-tickets/ Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  From ICU Nurse to Hospital President: Nicole Dockery's Leadership Journey 22.07.2026 26min

  What does it take to become the president of a hospital you once walked into as a brand-new nurse? In this inspiring episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Nicole Dockery, President of Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital, to discuss her remarkable journey from unsure college graduate to ICU nurse, healthcare leader, and now president of one of Virginia's largest healthcare employers. Nicole shares why she believes you don't have to have your life figured out at 18, the importance of mentorship, how embracing opportunities outside your comfort zone shaped her career, and what leadership really looks like behind the scenes. The conversation also explores the future of healthcare in Halifax County, including the new Sentara hospital opening in 2027, advancements in technology and AI, the importance of keeping healthcare local, and Sentara's continued investment in the community. Whether you're a healthcare professional, aspiring leader, student, or someone trying to figure out what's next in your career, Nicole's story is a powerful reminder that success isn't about a perfect path—it's about continuing to grow. In this episode: • Nicole's path from new graduate nurse to hospital president • Why you don't have to have your future figured out early • The mentors who helped shape her leadership journey • Leadership lessons for anyone feeling stuck • The future of healthcare in Halifax County • Sentara's new hospital and investment in the community • How technology and AI are transforming patient care Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Can Joey Break 100? Golf, Rogers Updates & Plenty of Trash Talk 08.07.2026 24min

  The golf rivalry is back! One year after their first golf episode, Alyssa Rogers welcomes Joey Rogers and Matt Hunt back to the Hello Hello Podcast to catch up on Joey's golf journey, relive the recent Member-Guest Tournament, and preview the upcoming Club Championship. What follows is exactly what you'd expect—plenty of laughs, nonstop trash talk, and a few surprisingly impressive golf shots. Matt shares the biggest improvements he's seen in Joey's game, the story behind Joey nearly driving the green, and one of the funniest golf moments you'll ever hear involving a golf ball, a tree, and a putter. They also make their predictions for this year's Club Championship and debate whether Joey can finally break into the 80s. The conversation wraps up with an update on Rogers Heating & Cooling, discussing the busy summer season, serving customers during extreme heat, and opportunities for those interested in a career in the skilled trades. If you enjoy golf, friendly competition, and a lot of laughter, this episode is for you. In this episode: ⛳ Joey's golf game one year later 🏌️ Stories from the Member-Guest Tournament 😂 The funniest golf shot you'll hear all year 🏆 Club Championship predictions 🔥 Summer at Rogers Heating & Cooling 💙 Serving customers during peak HVAC season Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Celebrating America: Everything You Need to Know About South Boston's Biggest Fourth of July Celebration 01.07.2026 15min

  The countdown to the Fourth of July is on! In this special episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with the team behind Downtown South Boston's annual Fourth of July Celebration to talk about everything planned for this year's event—including the celebration of America's 250th anniversary. From the farmers market and food vendors to live music, family activities, the reading of the Declaration of Independence, and the spectacular fireworks show, this episode gives you an inside look at what it takes to create one of South Boston's favorite traditions. The conversation also highlights the volunteers, sponsors, local governments, and community members who work year-round to make this celebration possible while sharing the broader vision of revitalizing Downtown South Boston into a place where families gather, memories are made, and community thrives. In this episode: Celebrating America's 250th anniversary 🎆 Everything happening during South Boston's Fourth of July Celebration 🎶 Live music, food, kids activities, and fireworks ❤️ The people working behind the scenes all year long 🌼 The continued revitalization of Downtown South Boston 🤝 Why community partnerships make events like this possible Whether you're a lifelong resident or visiting for the holiday, this episode will get you excited to celebrate with your community. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Preserving Halifax's Athletic Legacy with Dan Powell 24.06.2026 22min

  Athletics have always been a big part of Halifax County's story, and few people are more passionate about preserving that legacy than Dan Powell. In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa sits down with Dan to discuss the Halifax County Sports Hall of Fame, how athletes and contributors are nominated and selected, and why preserving our community's athletic history matters. They also talk about the Hall of Fame's growing impact through youth sports camps, scholarship programs, volunteer opportunities, and investments in the next generation of Halifax athletes. Dan shares his own journey in sports, the lessons athletics teach beyond the playing field, and his vision for the future of Halifax County athletics. Whether you're a former athlete, parent, coach, sports fan, or simply someone who loves Halifax County, this episode highlights the power of community, mentorship, and giving back. In this episode: • The mission of the Halifax County Sports Hall of Fame • How Hall of Fame nominations and selections work • Notable athletes and teams from Halifax County history • Youth sports camps and athletic development opportunities • Scholarship programs supporting local students • Volunteer and membership opportunities • The future of athletics in Halifax County Learn how you can nominate deserving athletes, support scholarships, volunteer, and help preserve Halifax County's rich athletic tradition. Visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092629753462 Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  The Voice of Halifax: A Conversation with Radio Legend Nick Long 17.06.2026 26min

  What does it take to become the voice of a community for more than four decades? In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Nick Long, the longtime broadcaster behind WHLF 95.3 and a familiar voice to generations across Halifax County. Nick shares how a high school opportunity sparked a lifelong career in radio, his experiences calling local sports, interviewing community leaders, and witnessing the evolution of broadcasting from transistor radios to today's digital world. Along the way, he offers valuable insights on preparation, listening, leadership, community involvement, and why Halifax County has always held a special place in his heart. From unforgettable interviews and South Boston Speedway memories to thoughts on economic development, mentorship, and the future of local media, this conversation is filled with wisdom, humor, and heartfelt reflections from one of the region's most respected voices. Whether you're passionate about broadcasting, community leadership, or simply love hearing the stories of people who have made a lasting impact, this is an episode you won't want to miss. In this episode: How Nick got his start in radio The art of sports broadcasting and storytelling Lessons learned from interviewing local leaders The importance of listening and preparation The future of radio and podcasting Nick's vision for Halifax County's future Why community service and mentorship matter 🎙️ Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true Halifax County legend. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Golden Birthday Adventures: Riley Turns 8! 10.06.2026 15min

  In this special episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa is joined by her favorite guest—her daughter, Riley—as they celebrate her golden birthday! Fresh off a birthday trip to West Palm Beach, Riley shares highlights from turning 8 on the 8th, including an $8 Build-A-Bear, poolside fun with family, and mastering front and back flips in the water. The mother-daughter duo talks about summer plans, moving on to third grade, favorite teachers, birthday traditions, and Riley's latest obsession with Squishies and dumplings. Filled with funny stories, sweet moments, and Riley's unfiltered personality, this episode is a joyful celebration of growing up, making memories, and embracing all the adventures that come with being eight years old. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  From Scrap to Steel: How Gerdau is Recycling Halifax's Future with Thomas Forlines 03.06.2026 21min

  What really happens to your old appliances, scrap metal, and aluminum cans after they leave your property? In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Thomas Forlines, Site Manager of Gerdau South Boston, to explore the fascinating world of metal recycling and the critical role it plays in our community. Thomas shares his incredible journey from temporary employee crushing cans to leading Gerdau's South Boston operation. Along the way, he discusses how recycled metal is transformed into the steel products that help build America's infrastructure, the surprising items that come through the scrapyard gates, and the economic impact Gerdau has on Halifax County and surrounding communities. The conversation also highlights the importance of community involvement, sustainability, customer education, and creating opportunities for future generations. Plus, Thomas shares a few unforgettable scrapyard stories—including the heartbreaking destruction of a fully restored 1966 Pontiac and the mysterious copper sculpture that seemed to bring bad luck. Whether you're curious about recycling, interested in local business, or looking for inspiration from someone who worked his way from the ground up, this episode is packed with valuable insights and hometown pride. In this episode, you'll learn: How Thomas advanced from temp worker to Site Manager What Gerdau does and how metal recycling supports American manufacturing The surprising value hidden in everyday scrap metal How recycling contributes to the local economy Tips for getting the most value from your scrap Why community involvement matters now more than ever Tune in and discover how yesterday's scrap becomes tomorrow's infrastructure. ♻️🏗️🎙️ Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Young Life, BBQ & Giving Back in Halifax County 27.05.2026 15min

  This week on the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Matthew Rich of Young Life and Darrell Chandler of TC's Barbecue & Grillers For A Cause to talk about an incredible community event happening June 13th at the Halifax Farmers Market. From mentoring youth and building leaders through Young Life to teaching kids real-life cooking skills around the smoker, this episode is all about pouring back into the next generation. Darrell shares how local students will help prepare and sell award-winning barbecue to raise funds for Young Life programs across Halifax and Mecklenburg counties — and why getting kids involved matters so much. You'll also hear the story behind Darrell's 16-year-old son winning first place at a local BBQ competition, the importance of mentorship, and how simple community partnerships can make a lasting impact. 🔥 Pre-order your barbecue trays and support local youth programs 🔥 Learn how to volunteer with Young Life 🔥 Hear how this fundraiser is bringing Halifax County together Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about faith, mentorship, family, food, and community. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  The Heart Behind Turnaround Park 20.05.2026 19min

  In this inspiring episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Rex and Debbie Masterman in the heart of downtown Clarksville, Virginia, at the beautifully revitalized Turnaround Park. What started as a final wish from 101-year-old Ruth Toone has blossomed into a community-driven project filled with flowers, wildlife, peaceful spaces, and purpose. Rex and Debbie share the incredible story behind bringing the park back to life, the challenges they've faced along the way, and how volunteers, local businesses, and community members are helping create something truly special for Clarksville. From butterfly gardens and handicap-accessible walkways to future dreams for the space, this episode is a reminder of what can happen when people come together to serve their community. If you love stories about small-town impact, community pride, gardening, volunteering, and leaving a legacy, this episode will leave you inspired. Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com
• 
  Growing Halifax Together: How the Fund for Halifax Gives Back 13.05.2026 21min

  In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa Rogers sits down with Dan Hayes from the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region to talk about the incredible impact the Fund for Halifax is making right here in our community. From supporting local nonprofits and fire departments to helping childcare centers, libraries, and scholarships, Dan shares how donations are invested to create long-term change for Halifax County. They also discuss the exciting matching gift opportunity currently happening, how nonprofits can apply for grants, and how anyone can create a lasting legacy of giving. If you've ever wondered how local generosity truly changes lives, this conversation will inspire you to get involved. Donate Here: https://www.cfdrr.org/ Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Supporting Families Through Life's Hard Moments with Resilient Pathways 06.05.2026 18min

  On this episode of Hello Hello, Alyssa Rogers visits Resilient Pathways in Chase City, Virginia, to talk with Executive Director Chris Pennington about the nonprofit's work as a family resource center. Chris shares how Resilient Pathways helps families find support, access services, reconnect through supervised visits, and build resilience through safe, compassionate guidance. They also discuss Chris's new doctorate in psychology and trauma crisis, her early intervention program, and the upcoming Women Uplifting Women fundraiser. Website: https://www.resilient-pathways.com/ Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com 
• 
  Bringing Downtown Clarksville to Life: Events, Energy & Community Spirit 29.04.2026 15min

  In this episode of the Hello Hello Podcast, Alyssa sits down with Lisa from Historic Downtown Clarksville to talk about the exciting momentum happening in this charming lake town. From the inaugural Flower Crawl to vibrant local businesses and community-driven events, Lisa shares how Clarksville is creating experiences that keep visitors coming back—and staying longer. If you love small towns with big energy, this episode will inspire you to explore, engage, and support local. Tickets for Flower Crawl: https://downtownclarksvilleva.com/events Hello Hello is Powered by Rogers Heating & Cooling: www.callrogers.com