In this episode of Naturally Curious, we sit down with Xavier Duckett - photographer, mentor, and founder of The Humble Hustle Company, a Roanoke-based nonprofit built on a simple but powerful idea: Keep Giving. What began as a grassroots T‑shirt project has grown into a creative hub supporting Black youth, connecting diverse communities, and redefining what it means to give back with intention. Xavier shares how he left his 9‑to‑5 to pursue his vision full‑time, why a missing “U” in Hmble Hstle carries a message of purpose, and how a clothing line evolved into a community space that blends art, entrepreneurship, and service. His story is one of risk, reinvention, and relentless generosity - and a reminder that sometimes the boldest step is choosing to bet on yourself.

In the final installment of our three-part series on the New River Valley’s most pressing challenges, we dive into the world of affordable housing. Recorded in late 2025, this episode features Jim Drader, the former Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of the NRV.

This episode of Naturally Curious features a deep dive into the life and work of Emily Hemphill...a reporter, writer, and future graduate student whose work spans the heart of Virginia. From her reporting at the Daily Progress in Charlottesville to her insightful long-form pieces for Cardinal News, Emily shares what truly drives a reporter to find the heart of a story. The conversation explores the complexities of segregation in Southwest Virginia and offers a preview of her upcoming book on the historic Christiansburg Institute.

While the media often overuses the word "crisis," the reality of childcare in the United States presents a specific, measurable challenge that many families can no longer ignore. On this episode of Naturally Curious, Bruce C. Bryan sits with Dr. Jessica Wirgau to explore the cultural and economic factors driving the current shortage of reliable care. To learn more about The Community Foundation of the New River, visit: https://cfnrv.org/.

Michael Hemphill – founder and host of the PBS Television Show Buzz4Good discusses the challenges nonprofits face and the good work they do, how a journalist created a 3.0 career, and shares some inspiring stories of the work being done to build our communities.

Dr. Ethan Long – In this episode, we're sitting down with the President and CEO of VIA Centers for Neurodevelopment. Managing a team that covers over half the state's geography, Ethan oversees work that's as complex as it is vital. There are no easy answers in this field, but VIA is dedicated to educating and training young people, supporting their families, and accelerating their paths to post-secondary success.This is the full, unedited version of our conversation. We’ll dive deep into the realities of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), VIA's impact, and how leadership can challenge a team to stay in a state of continuous improvement. It’s a discussion that sits at the intersection of healthcare, education, leadership, and the strengthening of our families.

Abby Hamilton serves as the President and CEO of the United Way of Virginia's Blue Ridge, an organization she has been with for nearly 25 years. Before taking the helm, her journey from living in the Pacific and finding her way to Virginia through her non-profit work will fascinate you. A recognized leader, Hamilton is dedicated to mobilizing the caring power of the community to create lasting positive change in the Roanoke Valley.

An incredible interview with the publisher of one of the oldest black-owned newspapers in Virginia. This interview features Stan Hale, his work in Roanoke, Virginia, and around the region. Stan discusses the power of print, the impact of The Roanoke Tribune on the community, his years of working in a third generation business, and more. You'll hear about the amazing Claudia Whitworth, and how Stan brought back a family treasure. This is a moving and powerful interview so click and listen!

Angie Covey (former Executive Director of the New River Community College – VA - Education Foundation) discusses workforce development, higher education accessibility in rural areas, and building a viable economic engine. These are topics that regions all over the country are facing.