432: Transforming How Locals Connect with NWA Patio Community

Summary In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley sit down with Patrick Pulliam and Thomas Burkholder, founders of the NWA Patio Community, to explore the power of building meaningful connections through local social events. The conversation kicks off with a deep dive into both Patrick and Thomas’s origin stories—unconventional journeys into real estate and entrepreneurship that led them to Northwest Arkansas. Both found that authentic networking opportunities were in short supply, especially outside of the typical business settings. As a result, founded four years ago, NWA Patio Community’s Patio Socials offer a fun, relaxed space for professionals and newcomers alike to meet, connect, and support each other. The free monthly events have grown rapidly, attracting crowds of over two hundred attendees and gaining nearly four thousand followers on Instagram. The episode highlights how NWA Patio Community thrives on collaboration, local sponsorships, and a community-driven approach. Patrick and Thomas share that most sponsors are event attendees first, ensuring genuine buy-in and engagement, and giveaways spark excitement and increase participation, while innovative merchandise creates a sense of belonging. Listeners get an inside look at the challenges and rewards of scaling a for-profit community-focused business, balancing fun with intentional networking, and making real, lasting impact. If you’re searching for inspiration to build community or grow your business, tune in today! Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (04:41) Patio Socials: Community & Networking (09:10) The Growth of Patio Socials (14:35) Remembering Faces Without Names (20:35) Strategies for Engaging Sponsors (23:37) Navigating Business and Community Goals (29:34) How Opportunities Shape Our Lives (30:15) Closing Thoughts Links Daniel Koonce Caleb Talley Startup Junkie Startup Junkie YouTube Patrick Pulliam Thomas Burkholder NWA Patio Community