I Am Northwest Arkansas® Island Girl in the Ozarks: Rochelle Bradshaw’s Story of Song and Self-Discovery
About the Show:
"My greatest takeaway was that no matter where I am in life, no matter how old I get, I will always find time for moments like this to share my knowledge with someone else."
– Rochelle Bradshaw
From touring with reggae royalty to calling Northwest Arkansas home, Rochelle Bradshaw has lived a life in music that most artists only dream about.
In this episode, Randy sits down with the Jamaican-born singer-songwriter to trace her journey from Portland, Jamaica, to the stages she shared with the Marley family and other reggae legends, and ultimately to the Ozarks, where she's building something entirely her own.
Rochelle doesn't hold back. She talks about what it's really like working with icons, navigating the disruptions of COVID-19, and releasing her debut solo album, Island Girl at 50—a milestone that came with its own set of challenges and triumphs. She also shares how she's blending her music career with her work as a brand ambassador at The Source Dispensary in Rogers, proving that creative careers rarely look the way we expect.
This conversation touches on mentor Joseph Israel's lasting impact, the realities of being a working artist, and why community matters when you're chasing big dreams. Whether you're a music fan, a creative trying to figure out your path, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode delivers.
Key Takeaways:
- Community Roots: Rochelle found a sense of community in Northwest Arkansas that reminded her of home in Jamaica and influenced her decision to stay.
- Legendary Experiences: She’s toured and performed with reggae’s biggest names, including the Marley family and Burning Spear, and learned the value of humility, hard work, and sharing wisdom.
- The Creative Journey: Rochelle emphasizes the importance of personal growth and letting go, reflected in her finally releasing her own album, Island Girl, at 50.
- Multiple Streams: In a changing industry, having “side hustles” and staying adaptable, as Rochelle does through music and her job at The Source Dispensary, is essential for musicians.
- Uplifting Wellness: Rochelle’s passion for healthy alternatives inspired her to create all-natural, vegan gummies for The Source, shaped by her wellness journey and desire to educate others.
- Giving Back: Rochelle organizes annual Bob Marley tributes at George’s and leads community initiatives, such as monthly non-profit tip matches, supporting the region she now calls home.
- Collaboration & Perseverance: Building a band and musical career as a transplant is challenging, but local musicians and venues make the journey rewarding for passionate creators.
- Personal Triumph: Through it all, Rochelle learned she’s “stronger than she gives herself credit for,” conquering fear and walking confidently into her next chapter.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- Rochelle Bradshaw’s Website: www.rochellebradshaw.com
- Island Girl album: Listen here
- The Source Dispensary (Rogers, AR) – learn more & check out their Roots and Reefer Program on YouTube
- Bob Marley Foundation
- Gulley Park Concert Series
- Shoutouts: Shelly Mouber (artist), Sarah Fennell Buchanan (Restore Humanity), Joseph Israel, Mandy Strickland (The Source), Anthony Ball, Reggie James, Patty Steele, Jeff Kearney, and Nate Walls (Secondhand Smoke NWA)
- FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
This episode is sponsored by*
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:
- Grab our Newsletter
- Email Us at hello@iamnorthwestarkansas.com
- Connect With Our Facebook Page
- Connect With Us on Threads
- Connect With Our Instagram
- Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
- Join The Facebook Group
- Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn
Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.
Consider donating to our production team to keep this podcast running smoothly. Donate to I Am Northwest Arkansas
Mentioned in this episode:
FindItNWA.com
🎧 This episode is brought to you by FindItNWA.com – the hyper-local business directory made for Northwest Arkansas. From local eats to trusted pros, it’s the go-to spot for discovering what’s great nearby. 📣 Are you a business owner? Get listed today and connect with thousands of locals looking for what you offer. 👉 Visit FindItNWA.com to explore or join now.