Episode 322 – Tom Hapgood Discusses Lost Letters, Design Education, and Life in the Ozarks

About the Show:

“I think everyone should write—even just for themselves.”

       – Tom Hapgood

On this inspiring episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Tom Hapgood, longtime professor and cornerstone of the University of Arkansas’s graphic design program. Together, they explore how formative experiences—especially those that cross cultures—ignite the creative spark and fundamentally shape who we become.

Tom’s compelling journey begins in New England but truly takes flight in Cold War-era Germany, where he lived as a “third culture kid” and witnessed history unfolding firsthand. Those transformative years abroad didn’t just shape his identity—they continue to fuel his academic work, drive his creative innovation, and recently inspired his authorship of “Lost Letters,” a novel that memorializes the military brat experience during one of history’s most pivotal eras.

Throughout their conversation, Tom reflects on how travel, storytelling, and design work together to broaden perspectives and strengthen communities. He opens up about the expanding creative opportunities in Northwest Arkansas, the evolution of the U of A’s graphic design program, and both the joy and challenge of telling your own authentic story in an AI-driven world.

Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or someone simply curious about life in the Ozarks, this episode delivers wisdom for living both purposefully and creatively in our vibrant region.

Key Takeaways:

• Third Culture Kids & Cultural Growth: Tom explains how growing up as an “army brat” in Germany fostered a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for both local and global cultures—lessons he still passes on to his students.
• The Power of Story: Everyone has a book inside them, and writing—longhand or typed—offers a chance to process experience, build bridges, and leave lasting breadcrumbs for others navigating similar journeys.
• Innovation & Design in NWA: The University of Arkansas’s graphic design program has grown into a top-tier, competitive platform, fueling opportunities for creative careers right here in Northwest Arkansas.
• Navigating Change & Community: Tom and Randy discuss the region’s rapid growth, the blending of lifelong locals and transplants, and the evolving identity of NWA as a thriving, inclusive creative hub.
• Embracing and Evaluating AI: AI’s role in creativity and education is complex—Tom offers candid reflections on its place in creative fields, underscoring the enduring value of hands-on skill and authentic storytelling.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show:

• Instagram: @tomhap88
• LinkedIn: Tom Hapgood
• Book: Lost Letters on Amazon

University of Arkansas Graphic Design Program

• School of Art – U of A

Local Bookstores Mentioned

• Pearl’s Books – Fayetteville, AR
• Two Friends Bookstore – Bentonville, AR
• Underbrush Books – Rogers, AR
• FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.

This episode is sponsored by:

FindItNWA.com – Find It Fast. Find It Local.

Northwest Arkansas Council – “Life Works Here!”

ONBoardNWA.com HyperLocal Jobs in NWA

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 Our Instagram
• Connect with Our LinkedIn Page
• Join the Facebook Group
• Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn

Discover more by tuning into this episode and staying connected for upcoming topics from the I am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.