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What does it mean to feel at home outdoors? In this episode of Sharp’s Island, we welcome Brian Bell, founder of Keep Virginia Cozy, to a tiny island in the James River for a wide-ranging conversation about litter, land stewardship and community. Brian shares the origin story of Keep Virginia Cozy, how a small grassroots cleanup effort grew into a million-plus pounds of trash removed from Virginia’s outdoor spaces, and why “cozy” is the perfect word for environmental work. Along the way, we talk about: Discovering ruins, flood debris, and hidden history along the James River The realities of river cleanup and how trash travels downstream Starting a nonprofit by accident—and sustaining it for nearly a decade Corporate cleanups, community buy-in, and low-barrier volunteering Outdoor access, belonging, and making nature feel welcoming Favorite Virginia trails, camping spots, and hidden corners of the state Why leaving a place better than you found it matters more than credit This episode is part river hang, part environmental philosophy, and part love letter to Virginia’s wild places—and the people who show up for them. Learn more about Keep Virginia Cozy: Follow @keepvirginiacozy on Instagram to find upcoming cleanups, volunteer opportunities, and ways to get involved. If you enjoy conversations about the James River, Richmond outdoors, conservation, and community-led action, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode. CHECK OUT MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND Sharp's Island Road Trip! Take the (Cold) Plunge and Hop in a Sauna with the Rivanna River Company https://youtu.be/gvIZIWqXZXY RIVANNA RIVER COMPANY in Charlottesville, Virginia! https://rivannarivercompany.com/ @rivannarivercompany - instagram National Geographic Explorer, Photographer Katie Orlinsky Stops By for Hot Cocoa and a Chat https://youtu.be/SfG1Se_Kc7E MAEVE JONES - THE POE MUSEUM - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/ni9968n4EAg https://poemuseum.org/ ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

We sit down with the organizers behind the Richmond Ren Faire to explore how this grassroots nonprofit grew from a small fundraiser into a full-scale, two-day immersive experience happening April 18–19 at Dorey Park. From blacksmithing and illuminated manuscripts to historic European and East Asian martial arts, real jousting on horseback, live improv storytelling, and multicultural food vendors — this fair is about much more than costumes. This conversation covers: What actually happens when you walk through the gates of a Renaissance Fair Preserving historic trades in a modern, automated world Building a Richmond-specific narrative (no kings and queens required) A multicultural approach to Renaissance history Supporting local artisans, makers, educators, and performers Community-building, slow culture, and hands-on creativity The long-term vision for a permanent historic trades facility in Richmond 📅 Richmond Renaissance Fair: April 18–19 📍 Dorey Park, Henrico County, VA If you care about local culture, history, creativity, and community, this one’s for you. #SharpsIsland #RichmondRenaissanceFair #RichmondVA #RenFaire #LocalArtisans #HistoricTrades #CommunityBuilding #RichmondCulture #MedievalFestival #RVAEvents #Jousting #Blacksmithing #SlowCulture #DIYCulture CHECK OUT MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND Sharp's Island Road Trip! Take the (Cold) Plunge and Hop in a Sauna with the Rivanna River Company https://youtu.be/gvIZIWqXZXY RIVANNA RIVER COMPANY in Charlottesville, Virginia! https://rivannarivercompany.com/ National Geographic Explorer, Photographer Katie Orlinsky Stops By for Hot Cocoa and a Chat https://youtu.be/SfG1Se_Kc7E ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

What does it mean to feel at home outdoors? In this episode of Sharp’s Island, we welcome Brian Bell, founder of Keep Virginia Cozy, to a tiny island in the James River for a wide-ranging conversation about litter, land stewardship and community. Brian shares the origin story of Keep Virginia Cozy, how a small grassroots cleanup effort grew into a million-plus pounds of trash removed from Virginia’s outdoor spaces, and why “cozy” is the perfect word for environmental work. Along the way, we talk about: Discovering ruins, flood debris, and hidden history along the James River The realities of river cleanup and how trash travels downstream Starting a nonprofit by accident—and sustaining it for nearly a decade Corporate cleanups, community buy-in, and low-barrier volunteering Outdoor access, belonging, and making nature feel welcoming Favorite Virginia trails, camping spots, and hidden corners of the state Why leaving a place better than you found it matters more than credit This episode is part river hang, part environmental philosophy, and part love letter to Virginia’s wild places—and the people who show up for them. Learn more about Keep Virginia Cozy: Follow @keepvirginiacozy on Instagram to find upcoming cleanups, volunteer opportunities, and ways to get involved. If you enjoy conversations about the James River, Richmond outdoors, conservation, and community-led action, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode. CHECK OUT MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND Sharp's Island Road Trip! Take the (Cold) Plunge and Hop in a Sauna with the Rivanna River Company https://youtu.be/gvIZIWqXZXY RIVANNA RIVER COMPANY in Charlottesville, Virginia! https://rivannarivercompany.com/ @rivannarivercompany - instagram National Geographic Explorer, Photographer Katie Orlinsky Stops By for Hot Cocoa and a Chat https://youtu.be/SfG1Se_Kc7E MAEVE JONES - THE POE MUSEUM - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/ni9968n4EAg https://poemuseum.org/ ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

Discover the forgotten history of Sharp’s Island and the remarkable, almost unbelievable story of Henry Tensor — the man who bought a James River island for $2,000 and attempted to build one of the strangest architectural structures Richmond has ever seen. In this episode, we explore the hidden past of the James River islands — from granite quarries and commercial fishing operations to party spots, home sites, and lost communities. Henry Tensor shares how he first spotted the island from his daily commute, tracked down the owner at the courthouse, and purchased the island in the late 1960s from the Sharp family, who had owned it for more than a century. Henry recounts: Life on the island before his purchaseThe 1895 two-story house destroyed by Hurricane CamilleReceiving permission from the City of Richmond to burn the house downWhat remained after the fireHis incredible plan to build a prefabricated steel-cube and plexiglass dome structureHow he and his friends transported 8-foot steel cubes across the river using lashed-together jon boatsThe heartbreak of Hurricane Agnes wiping out the nearly completed projectReflections on luck, timing, creativity, community, and the spirit of the James River This conversation is a rare look into Richmond’s hidden river history, human resilience, architectural imagination, and the wild stories behind the places we pass by every day without realizing what once happened there. If you love Richmond history, James River stories, architecture, lost structures, or old-school DIY river life, this episode is for you. CHECK OUT MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - National Geographic Explorer, Photographer Katie Orlinsky Stops By for Hot Cocoa and a Chat     • National Geographic Explorer, Photographer...   MAEVE JONES - THE POE MUSEUM - FULL EPISODE     • Poe Museum Director, Maeve Jones,  Shares ...   https://poemuseum.org/ ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE     • 'Mayor of RVA Outdoors', Blues Musician An...   https://jamesriverpark.org/a-familiar... SHARPSFEST...

Join Andy as he paddles with Jeff Katz of Newsradio WRVA 96.1 FM across the James River, they discuss Jeff's path to Richmond, Newsradio, drunk racoons and other local stories. #SharpsIsland #JamesRiver #RichmondVA #WRVA #JeffKatz #RVAHistory #RiverLife Jeff Katz Newsradio WRVA 96.1 FM, 1140 AM, and audacy.com https://www.thejeffkatzshow.com/ CHECK OUT MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - Sharp's Island Road Trip! Take the (Cold) Plunge and Hop in a Sauna with the Rivanna River Company https://youtu.be/gvIZIWqXZXY National Geographic Explorer, Photographer Katie Orlinsky Stops By for Hot Cocoa and a Chat https://youtu.be/SfG1Se_Kc7E MAEVE JONES - THE POE MUSEUM - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/ni9968n4EAg https://poemuseum.org/ ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM https://jamesriverpark.org/a-familiar-face-in-a-new-role/ SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

In this second and final part of our two-part series with Rivanna River Company, we dive deep into the origins, challenges, and community impact of one of Charlottesville’s most transformative outdoor businesses. From dreaming of a “river center” while living in Richmond… to launching a river outfitter beside a noisy auto body shop… to building a beloved hub of recreation, conservation, and culture — this episode captures the full journey. Join us as we explore: • How a simple idea to connect people with the river became a 10-year movement • Why Charlottesville once overlooked the Rivanna — and how that perception changed • The early struggles (crashed cars, weird bridge launches, skeptical landowners) • The moment the community rallied to protect the riverfront • The explosive growth of tubing, kayaking, and paddling in the city • How small business, local advocacy, and outdoor culture strengthened an entire community You’ll also hear stories about: 🛶 The founding vision behind Rivanna River Company 🌳 The role of small businesses in conservation 🚣‍♀️ The rise in recreational river use—customers AND non-customers 🌉 Free Bridge history and the unique character of this stretch of the Rivanna 🎶 RRC’s concerts, festivals, and community gatherings that transformed the riverfront into a cultural anchor 💥 The development threat that nearly ended everything—and how the city responded 🌿 Why this exact spot on the river means everything to thousands of local families CHECK OUT - PART ONE Sharp's Island Road Trip! Take the (Cold) Plunge and Hop in a Sauna with the Rivanna River Company https://youtu.be/gvIZIWqXZXY RIVANNA RIVER COMPANY in Charlottesville, Virginia! https://rivannarivercompany.com/ @rivannarivercompany - instagram MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - National Geographic Explorer, Photographer Katie Orlinsky Stops By for Hot Cocoa and a Chat https://youtu.be/SfG1Se_Kc7E MAEVE JONES - THE POE MUSEUM - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/ni9968n4EAg https://poemuseum.org/ ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

Join us on a unique adventure on the Rivanna River in Charlottesville, Virginia, where Gabe and Sonya Silver have established more than just a river company. This travel video highlights their efforts to create a space where adventure, community, and conservation converge, making it one of the best places to visit. CHECK OUT RIVANNA RIVER COMPANY in Charlottesville, Virginia! https://rivannarivercompany.com/ @rivannarivercompany - instagram CHECK OUT MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - National Geographic Explorer, Photographer Katie Orlinsky Stops By for Hot Cocoa and a Chat https://youtu.be/SfG1Se_Kc7E MAEVE JONES - THE POE MUSEUM - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/ni9968n4EAg https://poemuseum.org/ ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM https://jamesriverpark.org/a-familiar-face-in-a-new-role/ SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

Andy shares Swiss Miss Hot Chocolate with National Geographic photographer and explorer Katie Orlinsky https://www.instagram.com/katieorlinsky https://www.katieorlinskyphoto.com/ CHECK OUT MORE FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - MAEVE JONES - THE POE MUSEUM - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/ni9968n4EAg https://poemuseum.org/ ANDREW ALLI - JAMES RIVER PARK SUPERINTENDENT / BLUES MUSICIAN - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM https://jamesriverpark.org/a-familiar-face-in-a-new-role/ SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

In this episode of Sharp’s Island Podcast, we sit down with Tim Barry, legendary Richmond musician and former frontman of Avail, to talk about punk rock roots, storytelling, fatherhood, and what keeps him grounded by the James River. From his days touring the world in sweaty punk clubs to his stripped-down solo sets at hometown favorites like The Camel, Tim opens up about connection, fear, performance, and raising daughters who now sing beside him on stage. We also talk about the history of the river, creative endurance, and how Richmond’s spirit keeps pulling him back home. 📍Recorded on Sharp’s Island, a real island in the middle of the James River — this is more than a podcast. It’s a threshold between city and nature, noise and silence, past and present. 🎶 Topics in this episode: - Growing up in Richmond’s 90s punk scene - Life after Avail and the evolution of his songwriting - Recording a new album with Spacebomb Studios - Balancing touring, fatherhood, and creativity - The power of live shows and small-room connection - Stories from the river and the roots of Richmond’s music history Website: https://timbarryrva.com Instagram: @timbarryrva CHECK OUT OTHER FULL EPISODES FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - Bestselling Richmond Historical Fiction Author Talks About Her Craft, New Novel Out This Summer https://youtu.be/MYAWXnj8YfE 'Mayor of RVA Outdoors', Blues Musician Andrew Alli Paddles Over, Puts on a Show https://youtu.be/6zO1sL9c7XM SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

Andy welcomes Maeve Jones -- Executive Director of The Poe Museum -- to the island to discuss one of the most influential and innovative figures in American and world literature - Edgar Allan Poe. And they definitely discuss his shocking feat of endurance swimming! https://poemuseum.org/ Richmond, Va CHECK OUT OTHER FULL EPISODES FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - Bestselling Richmond Historical Fiction Author Talks About Her Craft, New Novel Out This Summer    • Bestselling Richmond Author Talks About He...   'Mayor of RVA Outdoors', Blues Musician Andrew Alli Paddles Over, Puts on a Show  • 'Mayor of RVA Outdoors', Blues Musician An...   SHARPSFEST 2025 -  • Sharp's Fest 2025 - Food, Fun and Live Mus...   SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram    / sharpsislandrva   INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/89337864... PRODUCED BY: @nodderly   a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmFFcGtOYk1iYkExRUZneThyb0MwbjBNdllzd3xBQ3Jtc0ttdWlsLU84OXVmaEVLVDZNejZ0UzFFZEZORGJabHBBNlNiTlJBZnVvSkpYYlpNM2ZFQTcwTkpudTZlVkwyYmd0c3lyS0hJZk1jS0JpRU9xVXNwbFY1ZXZ0T25PQVg0anYzWnNsSno1UEZRV1RPR0YxZw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fnodderly&v=ni9968n4EAg" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Andrew Alli talks about his new role as the James River Park Superintendent, playing the blues harmonica all over the world, and his favorite nearly-secret spots in the park system. CHECK OUT ANDREW ALLI: https://www.andrewallirva.com/ https://www.thecountryblues.com/artist-reviews/andrew-alli/ https://www.richmondfolkfestival.org/2024-folklife-demonstrations/2024/8/21/andrew-alli https://jamesriverpark.org/a-familiar-face-in-a-new-role/ RACHEL BEANLAND - Author of The House Is On Fire and Florence Adler Swims Forever - FULL EPISODE - https://youtu.be/MYAWXnj8YfE KEITH M RAMSEY - Artist and Designer - FULL EPISODE - https://youtu.be/-U8Id8trURA SHARPSFEST 2025 – https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly

In this episode of Sharp’s Island Podcast, we sit down with legendary Richmond Times-Dispatch writer Jeff Schapiro to talk about his journalism career, the stories that shaped him, and the creative process behind uncovering truth and meaning in everyday life. Jeff shares insights from his years reporting on Richmond and beyond, discussing the challenges of storytelling, the intersection of culture and community, and the craft of capturing moments that matter. From local history to contemporary issues, Jeff’s perspective offers a rich view into how writing can illuminate the world around us. If you’re passionate about journalism, storytelling, culture, or the creative life, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. What we cover in this episode: - Jeff’s journey as a journalist and storyteller - The stories from Richmond that left a lasting impact - How community, culture, and place influence writing 👍 If you enjoy this episode, please Like, Comment, and Subscribe to help more people discover the podcast. CHECK OUT OTHER FULL EPISODES FROM SHARP'S ISLAND: SARAH ABUBAKER – Fourth District City Council – FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/HhZ8tZprOEo SHARPSFEST 2025 – https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly #RVA #JeffSchapiro #RichmondJournalism #Storytelling #Podcast #RichmondVA #CreativeCommunity

In this episode of Sharp’s Island Podcast, we sit down with acclaimed author Rachel Beanland to talk about her novels, her creative process, and the powerful history that inspires her work. Rachel is the author of Florence Adler Swims Forever and The House Is On Fire, a gripping novel based on the true story of the Richmond Theater Fire of 1811, one of the deadliest urban disasters in American history. She shares how she weaves fact with fiction, what draws her to stories rooted in community, and how Richmond, VA continues to shape her writing. If you’re passionate about books, history, storytelling, or the creative life, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. What we cover in this episode: Rachel’s journey as a novelist and storyteller The real history behind the Richmond Theater Fire How place and memory shape literature Advice for aspiring writers and book lovers 📚 Learn more about Rachel Beanland: Website: https://rachelbeanland.com Books: Florence Adler Swims Forever | The House Is On Fire 🎙️ About Sharp’s Island Podcast: Broadcast from Richmond, VA, Sharp’s Island highlights authentic conversations with artists, thinkers, and creators who are shaping culture and community. 👍 If you enjoy this episode, please Like, Comment, and Subscribe to help more people discover the podcast. CHECK OUT OTHER FULL EPISODES FROM SHARP'S ISLAND - SARAH ABUBAKER - Fourth District City Council - FULL EPISODE https://youtu.be/HhZ8tZprOEo SHARPSFEST 2025 - https://youtu.be/BbSJ4MLflpE SHARP'S ISLAND on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharpsislandrva INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500 PRODUCED BY: @nodderly https://www.instagram.com/nodderly #RVA #RachelBeanland #RichmondHistory #HistoricalFiction #AuthorInterview #Podcast #RichmondVA #BookLovers

Andy sits down with amazing meteorologist , Andrew Freiden of "12 on your side" morning news. https://www.facebook.com/AndrewFreiden/ https://www.12onyourside.com/authors/andrew-freiden/ https://www.instagram.com/instafreiden/ INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/89337864... This is not a normal podcast; we're on Sharp's Island in the James River in downtown Richmond with Andy Thompson. People camp here, fish here, party here - it's a true RVA experience in Virginia. For us, the water that surrounds the river isn't a barrier, but a threshold. Production @nodderly

This week on the Sharps Island Podcast, we sit down with Mayor Danny Avula (@mayordannyavula) for a wide-ranging conversation about listening, leadership, and the future of Richmond. This is not a normal podcast; we're on Sharp's Island in the James River in downtown Richmond with Andy Thompson. People camp here, fish here, party here - it's a true RVA experience in Virginia. For us, the water that surrounds the river isn't a barrier, but a threshold, brought to you by Nodderly. INTERESTED IN STAYING AT SHARP'S ISLAND? https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/893378644257716500?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=aba81d78-4109-42ed-a51f-c5366ab6e953 Production @nodderly www.nodderly.com