Free Arkansas

Free Market of Ideas

About Free Arkansas

A media brand for the people, places, and politics of Arkansas.

“No spin. No echo chambers. Just bold conversations that challenge the status quo and empower Arkansans to think critically and speak freely.”

Free Arkansas exists to advance a bold, honest marketplace of ideas, amplifying the voices of Arkansans who believe our state can be first in freedom, opportunity, and quality of life. Through fearless conversations, rigorous journalism, and civic engagement, we challenge the status quo and build the intellectual and cultural foundation for a better Arkansas.

Think Critically, Speak Freely.

What We Stand For

01

Inform

Credible, in-depth content on the issues that matter most to Arkansans: tax policy, education, housing, healthcare, and civil liberties.

02

Engage

Space for independent voices, diverse perspectives, and frank dialogue that drives real civic participation.

03

Inspire

A “worst to first” mentality that motivates Arkansans to imagine, demand, and build the state they deserve.

Core Values

Intellectual honesty

Follow ideas, not agendas.

Civic courage

Have the uncomfortable conversations others avoid.

Independence

Not beholden to party, faction, or sponsor pressure.

Rooted in Arkansas

Local, specific, actionable content.

Freedom-forward

Limited, just government and personal responsibility produce better outcomes.

Purpose

Arkansas has the talent, resources, and spirit to lead, not follow.

Our Founder

Andy McNeill, founder of Free Arkansas

Andy McNeill

Founder

Andy McNeill is a business leader and entrepreneur dedicated to free thought and open discourse in Arkansas. He founded Free Arkansas to challenge the tyranny of the status quo and foster critical thinking.

Professional Background

  • CEO of Terra Renewal, LLC, which he grew into the 23rd largest waste company in the U.S.
  • Co-founder of Denali Water Solutions, the largest food waste handler and recycler in the U.S.
  • Decade-long consultant for Fortune 500 companies at Arthur Andersen
  • Owner in Jackalope Cycling in Russellville, AR

Education

  • B.S. in Accounting, Auburn University
  • M.B.A., University of Notre Dame
  • Formerly a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Personal Life

A devoted husband to Julie, father of four, and grandfather. He’s passionate about cycling, reading, and skiing.

The Shows

Three formats, one mission: interviews, weekly commentary, and narrative storytelling across Arkansas.

Every Monday

Free Arkansas Podcast

The flagship. Long-form interviews with the Arkansans shaping the state’s policy, business, culture, and civic life. Hosted by Andy McNeill.

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Every Wednesday

Y’all Hear About This

Unscripted commentary on the week’s Arkansas headlines with Andy McNeill and Misty Hale. No guest, no brief, just the running list.

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Monthly · Premieres July 2026

The Arkansawyers

Real stories. Real people. Eli Cranor sits down with Arkansas’s most prominent voices and the quiet, foundational spirits of its communities.

About the show →

The Team

The people behind the microphones, the edits, and the guest list.