Our show is all about showcasing the exciting news happening in Cumberland County from businesses, development projects, festivals, our universities, sports tournaments, and events. As well as hearing from people in the Community about the work they are doing in making the Fayetteville area great!
What makes Cape Fear Botanical Garden such a unique part of Fayetteville and Cumberland County? 🌿
In this episode of Greater Fay Forward, we sit down with Chris Hoffman, CEO of Cape Fear Botanical Garden, and Jessica Barnes, Director of Events and Experiences, for an inside look at one of Fayetteville’s most unique destinations.
Cape Fear Botanical Garden is more than just beautiful plants and flowers. Chris and Jessica share their favorite memories and places throughout the Garden, talk about the events and experiences that bring visitors through its gates, and highlight some things you might be surprised to discover you can do at the Garden.
We also discuss the Garden’s role in Fayetteville and Cumberland County tourism, the visitors who travel from near and far to experience it, and how its beautiful setting along the Cape Fear River helps create a one-of-a-kind experience.
Plus, we look ahead at upcoming events, new projects and improvements, ideas for the Garden’s future, and how Cape Fear Botanical Garden can continue to grow alongside Fayetteville and Cumberland County.
🌿 In this episode:
• What to expect when visiting Cape Fear Botanical Garden
• Things to do at the Garden beyond seeing the plants and flowers
• Favorite places and memories from Chris and Jessica
• Events and experiences at Cape Fear Botanical Garden
• Visitors traveling to Fayetteville and Cumberland County
• The Garden’s role in local tourism
• Upcoming events and seasonal activities
• New projects and improvements
• The future of Cape Fear Botanical Garden
• How the Garden can grow alongside Fayetteville and Cumberland County
Greater Fay Forward is a podcast from the Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, offering an inside look at the people, places, events, and good news happening throughout Fayetteville and Cumberland County, North Carolina.
Whether you’re a local looking for something new to experience or planning your next visit to the area, Greater Fay Forward highlights the people and places that make Cumberland County a great place to eat, play, and stay.
✈️ What does the future of Fayetteville Regional Airport look like?
In this episode of Greater Fay Forward, we sit down with Andrew LaGala, Airport Director, and Daria Parker, Marketing Specialist, from Fayetteville Regional Airport for an inside look at the airport’s future and its role in the growth of Fayetteville and Cumberland County.
Andrew shares what first brought him into the world of aviation, his experience in Fayetteville, and what he has learned throughout his career. We also take a closer look at the future of Fayetteville Regional Airport, including its master plan, ongoing renovations and improvements, and plans for an International Arrivals Facility that could create new opportunities for travelers visiting the area.
But the conversation goes beyond the airport. We discuss how airport improvements can impact tourism, economic development, connectivity, and the future of Fayetteville, along with Andrew’s perspective on where he sees the city heading in the years ahead.
In this episode, we discuss:
✈️ Andrew’s journey into aviation
🏙️ His experience in Fayetteville
📈 How the airport can impact Fayetteville’s growth
📋 Fayetteville Regional Airport’s master plan
🌎 Plans for an International Arrivals Facility
🛫 Ongoing renovations and improvements
🔮 The future of Fayetteville Regional Airport
Greater Fay Forward is a podcast produced by the Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, highlighting the people, organizations, and ideas helping move Fayetteville and Cumberland County forward.
🎧 Listen to more episodes of Greater Fay Forward for conversations about the people, places, and projects shaping the future of Greater Fayetteville.
5 Aug 2026
What Most People Don't Know About Fayetteville's Arts Scene | Ep.7 Arts Council CEO Kennon Jackson
What does the future of Fayetteville's arts community look like?
In this episode, we sit down with the new President & CEO of the Arts Council of Fayetteville | Cumberland County to discuss the future of the local arts scene, community engagement, and the important role the arts play in shaping Fayetteville's identity.
We explore how the Arts Council supports local artists, creates meaningful cultural experiences, and strengthens the quality of life throughout Cumberland County. From preserving our community's creative spirit to expanding opportunities for artists and residents alike, this conversation offers an inside look at what's ahead for arts and culture in our region.
Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, community leader, or simply someone who loves Fayetteville, you'll gain valuable insight into the impact the arts have on our community and why they matter now more than ever.
In this episode, we discuss:
• The mission and impact of the Arts Council of Fayetteville | Cumberland County
• Why investing in the arts strengthens local communities
• Opportunities and challenges facing artists and arts organizations
• The future of Fayetteville's arts and cultural landscape
• Arts programs, events, and experiences you won't want to miss
• How residents can support local artists and get involved in the creative community
Thank you for listening! If you enjoy conversations that highlight the people, organizations, and ideas shaping Fayetteville and Cumberland County, be sure to follow the podcast so you never miss a new episode.
1 Jul 2026
Ep.6: Naynesh Mehta TDA Chair for Cumberland County
In this episode, we sit down with Naynesh Meta, an experienced hotelier and Chair of the Fayetteville/Cumberland County Tourism Development Authority (TDA), for a conversation about hospitality, leadership, and the future of tourism in our community.
Naynesh shares his journey through the hotel industry, the experiences that shaped his career, and what it takes to succeed in hospitality. We also discuss the growing role of sports tourism, how major events impact local businesses and the economy, and the work happening behind the scenes to make Fayetteville and Cumberland County a destination for visitors from across the country.
Whether you're interested in business, tourism, hospitality, or community leadership, this episode offers an inside look at the people and strategies helping shape the region's future.
In this episode, we discuss:
Naynesh's career in the hospitality industry
The role of the Tourism Development Authority
The impact of sports tourism on Fayetteville and Cumberland County
Economic development through tourism
Leadership, partnerships, and what's next for the local hospitality industry
If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a rating or review—it helps more people discover the show.
3 Jun 2026
Ep. 5: Michlle Skinner with the Fayetteville Woodpeckers
In this episode of Greater Fay Forward, we sit down with Michelle Skinner, General Manager of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, to discuss how baseball, community engagement, and leadership are helping shape the future of Fayetteville and Cumberland County.
Michelle shares her journey into sports and stadium management, what makes Segra Stadium such a special destination, and how the Woodpeckers organization continues to create memorable experiences for fans while making a positive impact throughout the community.
In this conversation, we discuss:
• Exciting events, promotions, and experiences coming to Segra Stadium
• Michelle's path to becoming General Manager of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers
• The behind-the-scenes work that goes into game days and major events
• Community partnerships and outreach efforts across Cumberland County
• The role the Woodpeckers play in Fayetteville's growth and momentum
• Michelle's vision for the future of the organization and Segra Stadium
Greater Fay Forward highlights the people, organizations, businesses, and community leaders making a difference across Fayetteville and Cumberland County. Our mission is to share the positive stories, local successes, and forward-thinking conversations that help move our community ahead.
If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and share the podcast to help us continue bringing great local stories to a wider audience.
Connect with Greater Fay Forward
Follow the podcast for new episodes featuring the leaders, innovators, and changemakers helping Fayetteville move forward.
#GreaterFayForward #FayettevilleNC #CumberlandCounty #FayettevilleWoodpeckers #MichelleSkinner #SegraStadium #CommunityLeadership #NorthCarolinaPodcast #LocalStories #FayettevilleCommunity #MinorLeagueBaseball #FayForward
6 May 2026
EP.4: Melanie Parker Director of Sales for Everhome Suites
In this episode, we sit down with Melanie Parker, Director of Sales for Everhome Suites and a dedicated Chamber Ambassador in Fayetteville, NC. Melanie shares her journey in the hospitality industry, offering insight into what it takes to build meaningful client relationships, drive business growth, and represent a brand with excellence.
We also dive into her role within the Fayetteville business community, exploring how her work with the Chamber helps foster connections, support local businesses, and strengthen the region’s economic development. Whether you’re in sales, hospitality, or simply passionate about community leadership, this conversation delivers valuable perspectives and real-world experience.
Tune in for an engaging discussion on leadership, networking, and the power of community-driven success.
1 Apr 2026
EP.3: Seth Benalt and Gary Rogers with the Crown Complex
Go behind the scenes of the Crown Complex—one of the premier event venues in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
In this episode, we sit down with the General Manager and Marketing Director to explore event management, venue operations, and live event production at a multi-venue complex. Learn how their team handles concerts, sports events, trade shows, and theatre productions, all while managing tight schedules and large-scale logistics.
Plus, a look at the ongoing renovations at the Crown Complex and what they mean for the future of entertainment in Fayetteville.
If you're interested in event planning, venue management, or live entertainment, this episode is for you.
4 Mar 2026
Ep.2 Nat Robertson with Greater Fayetteville Chamber
WELCOME TO EPISODE 2! In this episode, we talk to Nat Robertson, head of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. He tells us the inside scoop of the Chamber as well as all the exciting new and returning programs the Chamber puts on. Also hear about what Nat sees in Fayetteville's future!
25 Feb 2026
Welcome to Greater Fay Forward
Hello and welcome to the Greater Fay Forward Podcast, where we discuss all things Cumberland County. Join us monthly as we talk to people in our community about the exciting news for the Greater Fayetteville area. Follow us here and on social media to stay up to date on the area, or if you're a meeting planner looking for your next venue, contact us today!
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