This week we sit down with Erika — Sales & Marketing Manager at Tobacco Company, VCU marketing grad, Canva Queen, and full-time nightlife girly.

She shares:

• How she went from corporate cold-calling to curating Richmond culture
• The history (and near-death moments) of Tobacco Company
• Friday vs. Saturday club vibes
• VIP birthday perks
• Winter White Party chaos
• And why the bathroom mirror selfie is mandatory

Upstairs: steak dinners and anniversaries. Downstairs: espresso martini shooters and early-2000s bangers. Duality.

Support Tobacco Company:

https://www.thetobaccocompany.com/

@tobaccocorva

https://www.facebook.com/TobaccoCoDine/

Follow Erika:

@erikawaszak

🌿 Big Daddy Segment

We also break down Virginia’s move toward a regulated recreational marijuana market and what it could mean for the economy. Yes, stimulated economy jokes included.

We also gush (again) about Harry's at Hofheimer and their Sing-Along Brunch — not just a meal, but a full-room main-character experience. DJs spinning nostalgic hits, strangers becoming backup vocalists, espresso martinis flowing, and the entire room committed to the bit. It’s chaotic in the best way and peak Richmond energy.

We also want to give the biggest shoutout to Melanie Eaton, a Richmond-based luxury fashion, boudoir, and branding photographer who is truly redefining what confidence looks like behind (and in front of) the camera. Through her artistry and her ME Program, Melanie creates spaces where women feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. Her work blends editorial edge with heartfelt intention, and the community she’s built is just as beautiful as the images she captures. RVA is lucky to have her creative energy!

Be sure to follow us for more great episodes! https://linktr.ee/olala_rva

This week, we’re joined by Keith Bryan, Richmond-area native, Navy veteran, licensed pilot, and President & Managing Partner of HOVA Flight Services RVA at Hanover County Airport. From fueling planes at the very beginning of his career to helping lead one of Central Virginia’s most important (and underrated) aviation hubs, Keith’s story is all about passion, persistence, and staying deeply rooted in the RVA community.

We dive into:

• How Keith got into aviation and his journey through the U.S. Navy
• Life on aircraft carriers (catapults, close calls, and unforgettable moments at sea)
• What actually happens at Hanover County Airport day to day
• Why small airports quietly bring millions into the RVA economy
• Celebrity sightings, private jets, and why some famous folks avoid RIC 👀
• Why flying is still safer than driving (yes, really)
• What it actually takes—time, money, and dedication—to become a pilot
• How HOVA and PRK Aviation give back to the Richmond and Hanover communities

We also talk Richmond’s evolution over the years, aviation egos, airport drama (it’s real), and why general aviation keeps things personal instead of sterile.

Support HOVA Flight Services:

@flyHOVA

https://www.facebook.com/FlyHOVA

💥 Drop It On Us, Big Daddy: Big Daddy breaks down a headline-making local story involving Richmond Mayor Danny Avula and his use of ChatGPT.

Plus: ✨

Business of the Week: HOVA Flight Services RVA 🎶

Show of the Week: Flying Legends of Victory Tour (stay tuned for actual dates)

If you’ve ever driven past Hanover County Airport and wondered what goes on behind the scenes—or if you love learning how RVA really works—this episode is for you.

Band of the Week: Poston Brown - Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Snoop Dogg

Also check out Adult Recess at Ember Music Hall from 4-9PM (30+ day time clubbing) Jan 31st

🎧 Buckle up. It’s a smooth takeoff.

Happy New Year, besties 💖 We’re kicking off the year with an episode that’s equal parts sweet, inspiring, and very RVA.

This week we sit down with Fabrizio & Ximena, the new owners of PACHA Spoonables, a Richmond-based Peruvian dessert brand serving up spoonable treats rooted in culture, family, and flavor. Think cozy desserts, rich traditions, and desserts so good they’ll make you rethink everything you know about chocolate cake 🍫✨

🍰 In This Episode:

• How PACHA Spoonables was born from family recipes and Peruvian pride
• What makes “spoonable” desserts the perfect intro to a new food culture
• Peruvian dessert favorites
• Building a business as a family (yes, mom is the chef 👑)
• Why Richmond is the perfect place for global flavors to thrive
• Future plans: seasonal flavors, events, coffee dreams, and more

🇵🇪 Plus… Peruvian Trivia!

We test everyone’s knowledge with fun facts about:

• Peru as a global culinary capital
• 3,000+ varieties of potatoes 🥔
• Pisco sours, Machu Picchu, and iconic Latin desserts

🗓️ RVA Events & Community:

• Lima Fest (Jan 18 & 19) – Richmond’s Peruvian cultural festival with food, music, dancing, and local vendors (yes, Pacha Spoonables will be there!)
• Show of the Week: 🎼 Let’s Groove Tonight with the Richmond Symphony
  • 📍 Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center
  • 📅 Friday, Feb 20 @ 7 PM
  • Motown classics + full orchestra = classy with a funky twist

✨ New Year, New You (But Make It Realistic):

We also dive into:

• Wild New Year’s resolution stats (spoiler: most people quit 👀)
• How to actually stick to your goals
• Trending 2026 resolutions like:
  • Micro-joy journaling
  • Digital detoxes (in small doses, don’t panic)
  • Functional fitness over burnout workouts

From fitness goals and boundaries to weddings, martial arts, and learning to say no — this episode is full of laughs, honesty, and feel-good motivation.

💕 Support PACHA Spoonables:

Facebook | Instagram | Ordering

Orders close Tuesdays | Deliveries Fridays 📍 Catch them at Lima Fest & upcoming RVA events

As always — thanks for listening, supporting local, and starting the year with us 💖