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On this episode of What’s Next?, Reeves Kirtner sits down with Parry Casto, aka "Funkle Sam," founder of Huntington’s Funktafest and lead singer of The MFB.
What began as an idea to bring more groove-driven music to the region has grown into a signature fall tradition at Ritter Park. Now celebrating its 10th edition and a two-day event, Funktafest continues to build momentum in Huntington.
Parry shares the origin story of the event, the early conversations that helped bring it to life, and the challenges behind producing and growing a live festival. They discuss what it takes to book talent, build community support, manage risk, and decide when it’s time to go bigger.
What began as an idea to bring more groove-driven music to the region has grown into a signature fall tradition at Ritter Park. Now celebrating its 10th edition and a two-day event, Funktafest continues to build momentum in Huntington.
Parry shares the origin story of the event, the early conversations that helped bring it to life, and the challenges behind producing and growing a live festival. They discuss what it takes to book talent, build community support, manage risk, and decide when it’s time to go bigger.
Creators and Guests
Host
Reeves Kirtner
Reeves Kirtner is a proud native of Huntington, West Virginia, where he continues to call home. He serves as the vice president and co-owner of Kindred Communications, a dynamic multimedia company boasting six radio stations, nine signals, and a diverse range of services including digital marketing, event coordination, and print publishing. Reeves enjoys reading both fiction and non-fiction, as well as a deep love for music. He's often found enjoying live shows, especially those involving Oasis, the Grateful Dead and Blink 182. Beyond his professional endeavors, Reeves is blessed to share his journey with his wife, Bethany, and three incredible children. A 2004 graduate of Marshall University, Huntington has shaped Reeves in more ways than he can count. He takes great pride in contributing to his community through his work at Kindred Communications and in his personal life. Reeves volunteers on the boards of the Cabell County Schools Foundation, the Marshall University Alumni Association, the Marshall Quarterback Club, and the West Virginia Broadcasters Association. Guided by the values of family, a deep-seated love for music, and a commitment to forging meaningful connections, Reeves approaches each day with purpose and dedication.
What is What's Next??
What’s Next? is a podcast from Kindred Communications where host Reeves Kirtner sits down with the people making things happen in our region—in business, events, and in the community. There are so many positive things happening right now, and this show is about the people behind it: their stories, the lessons they’ve learned, and where they’re headed next.
Each episode features real, unscripted conversations with business owners, festival organizers, community leaders, and others. We dig into how they got started, the challenges they’ve faced, and what it really takes to build something that lasts