Stacey is the Host of the Good Neighbor North Atlanta Podcast and the Publisher of Dunwoody Neighbors Magazine. In this episode we discuss Dunwoody podcasting and what we thought of our behind the scenes tour of the massive Assembly Atlanta film studios in Doraville.
In this episode of What’s Up Dunwoody, host Matt Weber sits down with Stacey Risley, the publisher of Dunwoody Neighbors Magazine and host of the Good Neighbor Podcast. Sponsored by Dr. Bret Freedman and Village Orthodontics, this conversation dives into Stacey’s journey from launching a hyperlocal magazine to expanding into podcasting. As a longtime Dunwoody resident, Stacey’s work focuses on promoting local businesses, building community connections, and creating content that brings value to Dunwoody families. Her insights are especially relevant for those moving to Dunwoody or living in Dunwoody who want to stay connected with the neighborhood’s businesses and people.
How Stacey Risley Began Her Journey in Dunwoody Media
Stacey’s media career began with the creation of Dunwoody Neighbors Magazine, a hyperlocal publication aimed at fostering community connections and supporting local businesses. She reflects on how important it is to provide a platform where neighbors can learn about each other and discover services right in their backyard. The magazine has grown into a trusted resource for Dunwoody families, helping new residents feel welcome and long-time locals stay updated on the latest happenings.
Stacey’s shift into podcasting came as a natural extension of her magazine work. Her Good Neighbor Podcast focuses on local businesses in the North Atlanta area, giving them a voice and helping residents understand the unique offerings in their community. Podcasting allows Stacey to dive deeper into the stories of business owners and to bring an engaging, conversational tone to her interviews.
The Importance of Supporting Dunwoody’s Local Businesses
Stacey’s mission has always been to highlight the businesses that make Dunwoody special. In her conversation with Matt Weber, she discusses the importance of keeping local businesses at the forefront of community life, especially in a competitive market. Whether families are living in Dunwoody or moving to Dunwoody, having access to trustworthy, high-quality businesses is a key factor in making the area an appealing place to live.
Stacey talks about some of her favorite episodes on the Good Neighbor Podcast, many of which feature Dunwoody business owners who have contributed expert articles to the magazine. For example, she has hosted local residents like Dr. Jason Kaplan of Kaplan Orthodontics, and Lauren Stock with Functionized Health, offering them an opportunity to share their expertise and connect with the community on a deeper level.
The Growth of Dunwoody’s Media Scene: From Print to Podcasting
As media evolves, so does the way local content is delivered. Stacey shares how podcasting has opened up new ways for her to engage with Dunwoody’s residents. Unlike print, podcasting allows her to have unscripted conversations and create a dynamic, interactive experience for her audience. She finds podcasting to be an excellent way to build rapport with local business owners and make their stories more personal and engaging.
Matt Weber, who has been podcasting for years, offers insights on how podcasting can help build connections in a community, comparing the format to a more intimate and immediate way of storytelling. For those moving to Dunwoody or already living in Dunwoody, Stacey’s podcast episodes provide a window into the businesses and personalities that define the local landscape.
High Street Development and Its Impact on Dunwoody
One of the major topics discussed in this episode is the High Street development, a transformative project that will bring significant growth to the Dunwoody area. Matt and Stacey talk about the importance of mixed-use developments like High Street, which are designed to blend residential, retail, and office spaces into one cohesive community hub.
Stacey is particularly excited about the potential of High Street to mimic other successful developments like Avalon in Alpharetta, but with its own unique twist that caters to the Dunwoody community. With High Street just a stone’s throw from Stacey’s Manhattan high-rise condo, she has a front-row seat to the project’s progress and is eager to see how it will shape Dunwoody’s future.
For those moving to Dunwoody, High Street promises to be a major draw, offering a convenient place to live, work, and play. The addition of new restaurants, retail spaces, and even live music venues will create a vibrant, walkable community right in the heart of Dunwoody.
Exciting Developments at Ashford Lane
In addition to High Street, Stacey talks about the exciting changes happening at Ashford Lane. One of the highlights is the upcoming opening of Culinary Dropout, a massive restaurant that will feature live music seven days a week. With its prime location at Ashford Lane and its impressive size, Culinary Dropout is set to become a new hotspot for both locals and visitors alike.
For Dunwoody residents, Ashford Lane offers a unique blend of dining and entertainment options, making it a perfect destination for a night out without having to leave the neighborhood. Stacey’s enthusiasm for the growth of Ashford Lane underscores her commitment to keeping Dunwoody’s community connected and engaged with local businesses.
The Assembly Studios: Dunwoody’s New Entertainment Hub
Another major development discussed on the podcast is the Assembly Studios project in nearby Doraville. Stacey and Matt reflect on their recent tour of the facility, which is set to become one of the largest film and television production spaces in the state. The 135-acre site features 22 sound stages and various backlot settings, from New York City brownstones to European-style streets, all designed to provide filmmakers with a diverse range of options.
What makes Assembly Studios unique is its focus on inviting the public to be a part of the experience. Stacey mentions how the park surrounding the studios is open to the public, and visitors may even find themselves in the background of a film or TV show. With plans for an amphitheater and synchronized fountains designed by the team behind the Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas, Assembly Studios is set to become a major tourist attraction for the area.
For those living in Dunwoody or moving to Dunwoody, having a world-class production facility just minutes away adds another layer of excitement to the local economy. The influx of talent and visitors to Assembly Studios is sure to have a positive impact on nearby businesses and the broader community.
Looking Ahead: Dunwoody’s Bright Future
As the conversation wraps up, Matt and Stacey look ahead to the future of Dunwoody. With developments like High Street and Assembly Studios, Dunwoody is poised to become an even more desirable place to live, offering residents access to top-tier amenities and attractions. Stacey’s work in media, both through her magazine and podcast, plays a crucial role in keeping the community informed and connected as these changes take shape.
For those considering moving to Dunwoody, Stacey’s insights offer a valuable perspective on what makes the area special. Whether it’s the close-knit community, the vibrant local businesses, or the exciting new developments, Dunwoody continues to grow and evolve while maintaining its unique charm.
Conclusion: Stacey Risley’s Lasting Impact on Dunwoody
Throughout this episode of What’s Up Dunwoody, Stacey Risley’s passion for her work and her community shines through. As a media professional, she has helped foster connections between Dunwoody’s residents and businesses, ensuring that both newcomers and long-time residents have access to the resources they need. Her contributions to Dunwoody, through both her magazine and podcast, have helped shape the narrative of this ever-evolving city.
Whether you’re living in Dunwoody or thinking about moving to Dunwoody, Stacey’s dedication to the community provides a valuable resource for staying connected and informed. With so much growth and development on the horizon, there’s never been a more exciting time to be part of the Dunwoody story.
