The Pell City Podcast

In this episode of the Pell City Podcast, we sit down with Cherith Glover Fluker, educator, writer, and author of Secret Birmingham: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure. Cherith takes us on a journey through Birmingham’s hidden corners, untold stories, and fascinating local landmarks—sharing how her passion for education, travel, and storytelling led her to create a book that invites both residents and visitors to see the Magic City in a whole new way. From historic cemeteries and forgotten sites to heartwarming local legends, Secret Birmingham reveals the rich layers of culture, history, and imagination that make Birmingham unique.
You can find and purchase the book on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Birmingham-Guide-Wonderful-Obscure/dp/1681066122

In this episode, Phaith sits down with Coach D. Tarver, head men’s basketball coach at Gadsden State Community College, to talk about building young men on and off the court, maintaining a 3.0 team GPA, life after basketball, NIL, and the rebirth of the Gadsden State Classic (Nov. 21–22). Watch/Listen to how Coach Tarver is developing leaders, not just players, and why community support means everything.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dorothea Hartley, one of the visionary partners behind the White Orchid Events Venue in Sylacauga, Alabama, to explore her journey, her passion for event design, and her growing impact on the community.
Dorothea shares how White Orchid has quickly become a premier destination for weddings, celebrations, corporate gatherings, and charity events in the region. We dive deep into the art of event planning, what it really takes to transform a space, and how her creative touch brings unforgettable experiences to life.
Throughout the conversation, Dorothea opens up about her dream events, future goals, and the exciting direction she’s taking with new accommodations and expanded services. She also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming White Orchid Events experience — including ticket information, pricing insights, and what makes her custom event packages truly one-of-a-kind.
This episode is filled with inspiration, community spirit, and entrepreneurial gems. Whether you’re planning an event, building a business, or just love great stories of creativity and service, this conversation is for you.
Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:51 Exploring the White Orchid Events Center05:03 Community Engagement and Charity Events08:25 The Art of Event Design and Planning13:36 Dream Events and Future Aspirations15:14 Introduction to White Orchid Events16:37 Event Details and Ticket Information17:54 Custom Event Planning and Pricing19:44 Designing the Space for Special Occasions22:19 Future Plans for Accommodations24:17 Community Engagement and Local Impact

In this engaging conversation, Rusty LuQuire shares his journey from a church background to becoming a prominent figure in the music industry. He discusses the importance of visuals in content creation, the influence of family on his artistic expression, and the evolution of his musical style. Rusty emphasizes the significance of authenticity in music and how personal experiences shape one's voice. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of band evolution and the power of music as a universal language that connects people. In this conversation, Rusty discusses the evolution of music from traditional radio to streaming platforms, emphasizing the loss and gain in music discovery. He reflects on the importance of authenticity in music creation and the emotional connections that arise from personal experiences. Rusty shares insights on the journey of releasing new music and the significance of acceptance in moving forward as an artist.

In this inspiring episode of the Pell City Podcast, we sit down with members of Pell City High School’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) to explore how they’re developing leadership skills, building networks, and preparing for bright futures. From their state-level involvement and leadership conference takeaways to exciting local business partnerships and tech-driven projects, these students share how FBLA is shaping their career paths and community impact.

In this inspiring interview, Phaith sits down with Elias Hendricks, the President and Founder of Vox Academy—a nonprofit organization transforming education through equity, arts, and student voice. Elias shares his powerful journey from the opera stages of Europe to the classrooms of underserved communities here at home. As a world-traveled professional opera singer and founder of the international classic soul ensemble Vox Futura, Elias opens up about his passion for music, the importance of arts in education, and how Vox Academy is empowering the next generation through culturally responsive programming. Don’t miss this dynamic conversation on music, mission, and regional arts leadership.

Wonder a Little, Discover a Lot: Blount County’s Tourism Boom with Leslie Clines, Director of Tourism, Blount County Economic Development Council.

Phaith takes a look into Alabama’s Friday night lights, sports media, and community service with veteran broadcaster Jeh Jeh Pruitt. This nugget filled conversation covers the Pell City/ Oxford rivarlies, high school and college championships, 38 years of Sideline, NIL opportunities, community change with the Dannon Project and much more!

Welcome to the first episode of the Pell City Podcast, your source for stories shaping St. Clair County and beyond! Host Phaith Frazier talks with Urainah Glidewell, Executive Director of the Pell City Chamber, about the Chamber’s role in economic growth, local partnerships, and the future of business in Pell City. From workforce efforts to small business support, this episode highlights how leaders are creating opportunity and driving innovation.

Welcome to The Pell City Podcast — your front-row seat to the conversations shaping the heart of Alabama. Hosted by radio veteran Phaith Frazier, this podcast dives into the issues, opportunities, and innovations driving community and economic development in St. Clair County in Alabama and its six neighboring counties:  Blount, Calhoun, Etowah, Jefferson, Talladega and Shelby.