Virginia Is For Laughers

Laughers, get ready to crack open the tap on good vibes in this episode with the master of malts, the sultan of suds, the one and only Shawn Gatesman, owner and brewmaster of The Friendly Fermenter! Known for its great beer and lousy parking, tune it to hear Shawn's journey from utilizing two-liter soda bottles to running a beloved nano brewery in Harrisonburg. From his family roots in hard work, we veer through a lively discussion on facing life's challenges with a pint half full. We'll be tasting a flight of topics, from Shawn's commitment to environmental conservation to his not-so-secret sauce for creating a community hub where beer meets cheer. Relish in the tales of his unique beers, including the Bees Knees and the Breakfast Blonde Coffee Stout, and the intriguing plan to infuse the tap with seltzers and themed cocktails. Discover how Shawn managed to create a space that's both a brewery and a nexus for social interaction despite the hurdles of marketing and the shifts in post-pandemic behavior. Plus, stick around as we ponder the world with or without Bob Ross – spoiler alert, it's better with him. So, charge your glasses, find the best (or any) parking spot you can, and tune in for a hearty dose of laughter and libations. And don't forget to grab your nut-free snack discount from our local gourmet popcorn sponsor, and stay tuned to Virginia Is For Laughers for your regular fix of laughs and charm! Cheers!
The Friendly Fermenter - Great Beer & Lousy Parking
Physical Location: 20 S Mason St Suite B10, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Website: www.friendlyfermenter.com
Instagram: @thefriendlyfermenter
Facebook: The Friendly Fermenter
Facebook Group: Following the Friendly Fermenter
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
This podcast’s website: virginiaisforlaughers.com
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, get ready to laugh out loud with the delightful Abby Chick of Blakemore's Flowers, voted the best in the Shenandoah Valley for her innovative and sustainable floral designs. With 17 years in the bloom business, Abby brings a bouquet of knowledge to our podcast, blending artistry with eco-conscious practices. Discover her journey from a part-time florist to a full-time floral educator sharing her insider secrets on educational initiatives like the Mayesh Design Star series. Find out about her festive and floral workshops designed for different skill levels each month. Peek into her second act in life, where Abby sprouts joy through floral education, all accessible through her Instagram and website. But it's not all petals and stems; her shop overflows with fruit baskets, gift baskets, greeting cards, snacks, and candies, driven by heartfelt customer service and a well-nurtured team. Engage with Abby's tale of falling in love with her hometown, forging a thriving business, and discovering a passion that bloomed beyond her wildest dreams. With a personal touch, she discusses the importance of mental health in leadership and the workplace. This episode blossoms further discussing market trends vs. affordability, creating unique 'Abby Chick Designs,' and leading a community-centered shop where every budget finds its match. Finally, Abby Chick leaves us with a seed of wisdom: sometimes the best recipe for a beautiful life and a beautiful arrangement is simplicity and care—fresh water for flowers, self-care for leaders. Tune into this uplifting journey from Shenandoah Valley roots to blooming success. And don't forget to grab your nut-free snack discount from our local gourmet popcorn sponsor, and stay tuned to Virginia Is For Laughers for your regular fix of giggles and charm! Cheers!
Blakemore's Flowers
Physical Location: Liberty Mercantile, 76 Gay St. Harrisonburg, VA 22802
Website: www.blakemoresflowers.com
Instagram: @blakemoresflowers
Facebook: Blakemore’s Flowers
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
This podcast’s website: virginiaisforlaughers.com
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, light up your week with a dazzling venture to the winter wonderland of Light Up the Park at Massanutten Resort. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at turning a visionary idea into a festive reality that both guests and the community cherish. We've got a trio of glittering guests from Massanutten Resort, here to share the behind-the-scenes magic of this new annual event. We have Dana Staniunas, Kelly Long, and the man who can never have too many holiday lights, Jason Owney! Hear how this team of laughter-loving elves selected a vendor that meticulously crafted 17+ photo ops, including a walk-through snowflake tunnel, an animated tree, and even a waddle of penguins! Find out how they overcame marketing challenges of capturing the magic of this event in its inaugural year. And as we converse amidst the chuckles, you’ll also learn about early glowing reviews from event goers of all ages, the park's hours, the ticket purchasing process, and the treats in store – yes, there’s hot cocoa! Discover the future plans to sprinkle more sparkle with choirs, Santa visits, and new displays. For those seeking a tradition in the making, the enchantment of Light Up the Park awaits. So bundle up, bring the family, and enjoy a festive frolic through an LED forest. You don’t want to miss this twinkling tale of creativity, collaboration, and creating holiday traditions that light up not just the park, but also the hearts of all who visit. Cheers!
Light Up the Park at Massanutten Resort - Plan in advance!
Location at the Waterpark: 1200 Adventure Dr, Massanutten, VA 22840
Resort Website: www.massresort.com
Direct link to the Light Up the Park event: www.massresort.com/play/light-up-the-park/light-up-the-park/
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
This podcast’s website: virginiaisforlaughers.com
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, deck your halls and tune your jingle bells to the sound of uproarious joy because this episode is about to sprinkle some festive glitter on your funny bone with the world’s most famous festive couple around—the wonderful Santa and the charming Mrs. Claus! Get ready to be enchanted by heartwarming experiences and cheeky North Pole insider stories that you've never heard before. Their loving banter sparks joy as they reveal their secret to keeping the holiday spirit alive all year round, including their love for gourmet popcorn and takeout from Elfa Barrel (like a Cracker Barrel;-) their North Pole fav! From interacting with children before Christmas to Santa's hilarious wardrobe malfunction in Taylor Swift's house we're unpacking the stockings with tales that will sparkle in your ears like twinkling lights. Listen closely as they delight in tales of adjusting Santa's suit, post-cookie binges, keeping the elves in check with limited hot cocoa, and spreading cheer with the help of a snow globe fact-checker. Don’t miss out as we dive into their yearly traditions, the not-so-hidden challenges of gift delivery, and the ever-so-mysterious magic that slows down time. Plus, we'll hear about how they unwind after the holiday frenzy and hear Santa and Mrs. Claus’ wishes for you this holiday season! So, grab some of that "Polar Express" hot cocoa, get comfy, and maybe even put on some long red underwear—hey, we won't judge—because we're set to reveal the North Pole's unseen magic and lots of laughter. Remember, kindness is the key, and here in the Shenandoah Valley, we're spreading holiday cheer all year round! Cheers and jingle all the way!
Track Santa!
https://www.noradsanta.org/en-US
It’s our third annual check in with Santa & Mrs Claus - each episode is different. So, be sure to check out our first two episodes for more holiday content & get to know the world's most famous Christmas couple more intimately this holiday season!
Ep #34 Santa Claus Is Coming to Town!
Ep #90 Ho Ho Ho They’re Back! It’s Santa & Mrs. Claus on a Zoom Call from the North Pole
virginiaisforlaughers.com
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, discover the compassionate world of grieving support available to you and your loved ones that flourishes hope in the hardest of times this holiday season and year round. Our guest, Vonda Driver from the Sadie Rose Foundation, joins us today to share the story of its founders, Regina & Lee Harlow. From their heartbreaking loss they stitched together a quilt of comfort, extending from the delicate threads of infant loss to now 16 years later expanding the fabric of grief support available to all who have lost a loved one. Hear your host, Dawn Davis Womack, share her own family’s heartbreaking loss and gratitude for the foundation’s dedicated work ahead, something she wishes her family had. Learn about their annual December Candlelight Ceremony event creating a touching tribute to loved ones passed and warm heartfelt connections with others who truly understand. Discover how the foundation will soon welcome the community to a church meeting space brimming with healing and connectivity. Plus, find out how you can help, support or get involved! From heartwarming moments to chuckles about the quirkiness of life's many challenges, this heartwarming chat promises valuable guidance on how to walk alongside someone in their grief—not by offering hollow words, but by sharing in the silent solidarity of their journey. Sometimes, just being there is enough. If you have experienced grief, you are not alone. Hope is a beautiful thing. Healing is possible and support is available. Life is a journey of ups and downs for all of us. And laughter lifts the spirit so join us for next week's episode for more laughter, learning, life and a Zoom call to the North Pole;-) Cheers!
Sadie Rose Foundation
Website: sadierosefoundation.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheSadieRoseFoundation
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, today we unwrap the story of Shenandoah Valley's premier one-stop shop for gifts and decor for all seasons, as well as all things Christmas that specializes in hard-to-find and high-quality items. Find out about their magical realm of handpicked ornaments, heart-warming gifts, flags and festive table runners, among other irresistible finds you can peruse and purchase from the owner, Dustin Kline. Learn about the personal touch they have to keep an ear out for customer preferences. Unravel the constant challenges of keeping the store inventory fresh showcasing unique holiday items and everyday gifts galore. Expect to be enchanted by the store's thoughtfulness as it keeps its doors open to late-night visitors and hear a story of a loving tale of a memorable customer. Travel with us through the world of decorations, licensing arrangements, and their unpredictable effects on product availability and price waves. Engulf yourself in the fascinating rainbow of lighting advancements and expanding the village sets available to you. Learn how he navigates trade shows across the country to ensure your touch of holiday magic is unique and personal. Get introduced to Dustin's other store across town, Creekside Gifts, a treasure trove of gifts and keepsakes. Plus, stay tuned for the launch of Snow and Ice online store coming soon! And don’t miss your exclusive discount on Shenandoah's award-winning popcorn, PrePOPsterous, using the promo code Laugh15 that makes for a great gift or stocking stuffer. Cheers!
Snow & Ice Christmas & Gift Store
Store Location: 4080 Evelyn Byrd Ave # 102, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Website: www.snowandiceonline.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/snowandiceVA
Creekside Gifts - inside the Shenandoah Heritage Market
Store Location: 121 Carpenter Ln, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreeksideGiftsVA
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, enjoy funny moments and discover the power of music, charity and community with key figures from VOICE, a nonprofit musical organization in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Listen as our special guests, Misty Newman and Ben Wilkins, share the story of this organization, founded in 2008. Find out about how they create beautiful melodies for a noble cause, hosting bi-annual concerts and donating all proceeds to local nonprofits. Discover how they have significantly helped 20+ organizations, becoming a beacon of hope for the community. Journey into the behind-the-scenes workings of VOICE, how they pick songs, themes, and nonprofits for their concerts. Listen as Misty and Ben share their passion for helping and the joy in singing together. Learn about the adaptability of VOICE during the pandemic. Find out how you can be part of VOICE as a singer, musician, supporter, or beneficiary. Explore the role of their combo bands, adding depth and adding instrumentation and liveliness enriching the cohesive sound of their performances. Dive into what to expect with VOICE's December Concert, Winter Night Sky. Uncover how it benefits the Blue Ridge Foster Love, a nonprofit whose mission to support and destigmatize the foster experience for children. Plus, find out the steps involved in picking beneficiaries and share this episode with other musical artists, nonprofits and community minded people who may want to connect with VOICE! This is a heartwarming episode filled with stories, touching moments and laughter you won’t want to miss. Cheers!
VOICE Ensemble
Website: www.blackboxleadership.com
Facebook: facebook.com/VOICEensemble/
Instagram: @voice_ensemble
Email: [email protected]
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, get ready for an enlightening episode with laughs to discover the secrets of effective leadership from Michael McCleve, founder of Black Box Leadership. With over 35 years of experience, Michael offers a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies for becoming a better leader. Benefit from his wealth of knowledge, emphasizing the importance of leading oneself before leading others as we explore the ripple effect of leading from within. Learn about the power of flexibility and letting go of control, as well as the valuable lessons that can be learned from failures and missed expectations. Learn about the Black Box Leader Development Model and its six components, providing a roadmap for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills. Get leadership tips as Michael reveals his unique approach to staff interviews and why being your authentic self is crucial. Find out about his coaching services, including his innovative "Flash coaching" program designed to help individuals become better leaders, increase productivity, and accelerate profits through short, action-oriented coaching sessions. Learn about intent-based leadership; the power of creating psychological ownership within a team and more! Plus, don't forget to check out Black Box Leadership's website for additional resources and a free PDF book on creativity for business owners. Cheers!
Black Box Leadership - visit the website: www.blackboxleadership.com

• To read Michael’s Blog on a variety of leadership topics & connect with him!
• To get your GIFT on his website - Just click the “Get Your Gift” button
• To get your special GIFT made for the Laughers! It’s a PDF book Fast Track Creativity, go to blackboxleadership.com/contact/ and direct message him on his LinkedIn by clicking on the LinkedIn logo

Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, get ready to be inspired by singer-songwriter Morgan Dean's journey from Valley Idol to earning a golden ticket on American Idol performing in front of celebrity judges! Hailing from Elkton, Virginia, Morgan shares the lessons she learned, her experiences, and the passion for music that sparked within her. Discover her musical influences and favorite places to perform around the Valley. Get a sneak peek into Morgan's upcoming music, which promises to be a blend of country-driven sounds with heartfelt messages of faith and love. Along the way, we discuss the role of AI technology in the music industry, the importance of live performances, and the growing music scene in the Valley and more! Also, get her tips on vocal health as she shares how she takes care of hers. Plus, find out about the rumor of Morgan being related to the iconic Patsy Cline! While there's no DNA proof, Morgan shares her love for Patsy Cline's nostalgic and enjoyable music. Laughers, it’s another fun and engaging episode so tune in to enjoy this lively conversation and share it with others who appreciate or want to know more about what all the Shenandoah Valley has to offer. Cheers!
Follow Morgan Dean’s Music
Instagram: @morgandeanmusic
Facebook: Morgan Dean Music
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn!
Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy

Laughers, get ready for a captivating interview with Reverend Bill Howard of The Judy Chops as we explore his multifaceted music career, background in improv at JMU, live streaming adventures, and creative outlook! Listen as this dynamic artist and independent entrepreneur shares the significance of fostering opportunities in the arts. Discover how he created a unique live streaming concept known as 'the confessional,' providing viewers with a platform for engagement and themed content. Find out more about his band, The Judy Chops, a seven-piece band that's captivated audiences for over a decade with their deft musicianship and high-energy live shows. Emerging as a Shenandoah Valley favorite, they've become a hot ticket in the Virginia music scene, offering a unique blend of Americana that seamlessly fuses modern and vintage musical styles, incorporating elements of swing, blues, rock, and soul. Huffington Post aptly describes their sound as 'genre-defying.' Reverend Bill Howard shares their involvement in Staunton Jams, a block party festival in Staunton, where they harness local resources and talents to create opportunities for artists and performers. With a commitment to music and improv, Bill shares the importance of remaining open to moments of divine inspiration. From considering the seminary to finding his true passion on the stage, Bill's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Amid the pandemic, Bill found solace and fulfillment in live streaming, offering a positive, encouraging outlet for those in need of connection. Tune in for insights on the evolving performance industry, the necessity of adaptability in an ever-changing world and more! Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation brimming with laughter, inspiration, and deep insights, showcasing dedication to building a vibrant creative community and Bill’s journey as an artist. Cheers!
Follow The Judy Chops
Website: www.thejudychops.com
Facebook: The Judy Chops
Instagram: @thejudychops
Subscribe to their YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/JudyChopsBand
Listen & Buy Their Music: thejudychops.bandcamp.com
Follow Reverend Bill Howard to see & learn more about him & his bands!
Instagram: @rvrndbill
Facebook: Reverend Bill Howard
Laughers, enjoy the award-winning delicious PrePOPsterous Gourmet Popcorn! Physical Location: 400 N Main St, Bridgewater, VA
Website: https://www.prepopsterous.com/
Discount promo code: LAUGH15
To learn more about X2 Comedy & Buy Tickets visit:
https://www.x2comedy.com/
Facebook & Instagram: @x2comedy