Faces of GRAND Prairie, A Community Podcast
Faces of Grand Prairie
The mission of the Faces of Grand Prairie Community Podcast is to put the well-being of the local community ahead of personal or political agendas and create a space for civics education, trust, and mutually beneficial discussions between city officials, business owners, nonprofit organizations, notable residents, and engaged citizens. Join Jenna Pecor as she has uplifting and informative discussions with Grand Prairie residents who are doing amazing things in her community of Grand Prairie, TX.
Episodes
Grand Prairie Parks and Rec Updates with Kelly Eddlemon and Emily Linares
In this episode of the Faces of Grand Prairie podcast, Jenna Pecor interviews Emily Linares and Kelly Edelman from the Grand Prairie Parks, Arts and Recreation Department. They discuss their roles, the history and growth of the department, and the innovative events and programming that enhance community engagement. The conversation also covers the challenges of event planning, the importance of community feedback, and the future plans for Grand Prairie's parks and recreation initiatives.#grandprairie #parksandrecreation Jenna Pecor, Realtor, 214-558-4410Coffee News Grand Prairie: https://www.coffeenewsgp.com/My Jennarocity Estate Sales: https://myjennarocityestatesales.com/Amanda Herrera, Ameliorate Counseling, PLLC, https://amanda-herrera.clientsecure.me/Timestamps: 00:00Introduction to the Guests and Their Roles06:27Personal Histories and Career Paths09:19The Evolution of Parks and Recreation in Grand Prairie12:09Community Engagement and Real Estate Perspectives15:30Collaboration Across City Departments18:27The Role of the Parks and Recreation Commission21:32Upcoming Events and Community Programming31:40Exciting Changes Ahead for Local Events34:34The Challenge of Event Planning36:48Navigating Event Challenges and Adaptations42:23Creating Memorable Experiences for Families44:16Overcoming Obstacles in Event Management51:43Marketing Strategies for Community Engagement56:08Upcoming Events and Community Involvement
Getting to Know GPISD Superintendent Dr. Gabe Trujilio
Join Jenna and co-hosts Emily Aquino and Cadence Williams from Dubiski High School as we get to know our new GPISD Superintendent! Emily and Cadence are student leaders from the Media Technology Pathway. They prepared the questions for today's episode, and it was wonderful hearing how Dr. Trujilio answered them! This episode is full of advice and wisdom from our new superintendent and it was a pleasure to have a full studio today! Special thanks to the following people for making today's episode happen! School Board Trustee Emily LilesGay Lynn Broom, GPISD Communications DirectorAniska Douglas, Chief of Career & Technical Education and Innovative ProgramsTyler Case, Dubiski Teacher, Media TechnologyMeghan Wiggins with The Epic was our Production Engineer for today's episode. To donate to the podcast: https://facesofgrandprairie.org/support-local-journalismSponsors for today's PodcastJenna Pecor, Realtor, Bancroft Realty, 214-558-4410Coffee News GP, [email protected] Prairie United Charities, https://gpuc.org/Amanda Herrera, Ameliorate Counseling, PLLC, https://amanda-herrera.clientsecure.me/My Jennarocity Estate Sales, www.myjennarocityestatesales.com#GPISD #grandprairie #education #DubiskiHighSchool
From Little League to Vietnam: The Journey of a Life of Service with Ray Jean Bush
This conversation explores the life and experiences of Ray Jean Bush, a Vietnam veteran and active community member in Grand Prairie. Ray shares his journey from growing up in Grand Prairie, his involvement in local sports, and the impact of his military service during the Vietnam War. He discusses the importance of community support, education, and the role of veterans in society. Ray also reflects on his personal life, including his family and the purpose he finds in helping others. The conversation highlights the significance of honoring veterans and the contributions they make to their communities.Vietnam Veterans of America, GP Chapter #1013https://vva.org/chapter/vva-chapter-1013/Run for the Wall, Honoring Veteranshttps://rftw.us/Grand Prairie Memorial Day Celebrationhttps://www.gptx.org/Community-Calendar/Memorial-Day-Celebration-2025Episode Sponsors: Jenna Pecor, Realtorhttps://jennapecor.com/Coffee News GPhttps://www.coffeenewsgp.com/Honor Guard Flags GPhttps://www.yardbook.com/hp/131402Jennarocity Estate Saleshttps://myjennarocityestatesales.com/Nonprofit Spotlight:Grand Prairie United Charitieshttps://gpuc.org/
Empowering Entrepreneurs with Mary Dominguez Santini, Founder of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
In this episode of the Faces of Grand Prairie podcast, host Jenna Pecor interviews Mary Dominguez Santini, the founder of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Grand Prairie. They discuss the importance of community engagement, the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses, and the need for business education and access to capital for entrepreneurs. Mary shares her experiences in founding the chamber, the significance of cultural understanding, and the challenges faced by small businesses. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and supporting the next generation of business leaders in the community.Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Grand Prairiehttps://grandprairiehispanicchamber.org/Episode SponsorsMy Jennarocity Estate Saleswww.myjennarocityestatesales.comCoffee News GPhttps://www.coffeenewsgp.com/Mansfield Driving Academyhttps://mansfield-drive.com/Jenna Pecor, Realtor Bancroft Realty https://jennapecor.com/
From the Gridiron to Leadership: The Journey from College Football Coach to GPISD Athletic Director with Coach Gary Bartel
In this conversation, Coach Gary Bartell shares his journey from growing up in Grand Prairie, Texas, to becoming a successful college football coach. He discusses his early athletic experiences, the transition to college football at Texas Tech, and the challenges he faced in his personal life and career. Bartell reflects on the importance of mentorship in coaching and the impact of his experiences on his life and career. He also shares insights into the evolution of coaching styles and the significance of community in sports. Bartel discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a football program, the impact of COVID-19 on athletics, and her transition from coaching to becoming an athletic director.
Brian Bondy, President of the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce
Discover the insights from Brian Bondy, the new President of the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce, as he shares his vision for local business growth and community engagement.Episode Sponsors: My Jennarocity Estate Sales: https://myjennarocityestatesales.com/Coffee News GP: https://www.coffeenewsgp.com/Mansfield Driving Academy: https://mansfield-drive.com/Jenna Pecor, Bancroft Realty: https://jennapecor.com/Faces of Grand Prairie Website: https://facesofgrandprairie.org/Sign Up for the Monthly Faces of GP Newsletter: http://gem.godaddy.com/signups/9ff78e46af114e63ac1c4bdbea3489cf/join00:00 Introduction to Brian Bondi and the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce05:54 The Business Landscape of Grand Prairie09:10 Networking Opportunities and Community Engagement11:57 The Role of Small Businesses in Grand Prairie15:09 Sales Skills and Overcoming Challenges18:00 The Importance of Follow-Up and Customer Relationships27:38 The Weight of Responsibility in Business29:04 The Rise of Entrepreneurship Post-Pandemic31:02 The Importance of Local Business Expertise33:25 The Hard Work Behind Success34:19 Chamber of Commerce: Structure and Purpose35:44 Empowering the Next Generation through Education38:40 Innovative Education and Career Pathways40:06 The Shift Towards Trades and Technical Skills42:27 Chamber Events: Networking and Growth Opportunities44:22 Community Leadership and Vision46:48 Navigating Challenges in Business48:42 Connecting with the Chamber of Commerce#chamberofcommerce #grandprairietx #grandprairie #localbusiness
Talking Dalworth History and Family Legacies with Alex Dave, Founder of Dave's Legacy
Join us as we sit down for a candid interview with Alex Dave, founder of Dave's Legacy nonprofit organization, to delve into the rich history and family legacies of the Dalworth community. Learn about the stories and experiences of one family that have shaped this vibrant neighborhood in Grand Prairie. Episode Sponsored by:Jenna Pecor, Bancroft Realty, 214-558-4410 https://jennapecor.com/Jennarocity Estate Sales https://myjennarocityestatesales.com/Dave's Legacy Nonprofit Website: https://www.daveslegacy.org/D Magazine "History of Dallas Food: The Legend of Eltee O. Dave and Dave’s Barbecue" https://www.dmagazine.com/frontburner/2011/08/history-of-dallas-food-the-legend-of-eltee-o-dave-and-daves-barbecue/
Talking South Grand Prairie High School Football with Alumni JB Williams
This was a fun, albiet far too short, episode. My guest is one of the most recognizable alumni of SGPHS, JB Williams. JB tells how his passion for SGPHS football started his sophmore year and continued for years after graduation, running the famous SGPHS touchdown flag down the field for many years after. JB loves this city and loves our shared Alma Mater and it was a pleasure speaking with him on this very cold day! He will be back again to talk local Grand Prairie sports as soon as possible! This episode is sponsored by me! I am a Realtor with Bancroft Realty and own My Jennarocity Estate Sales, an estate liquidation company. Give me a call at 214-558-4410! But I'm looking for more sponsors!! If you're a business who'd like to sponsor the Faces of Grand Prairie, you can do so at our website, https://www.facesofgrandprairie.org!
Grand Prairie City Council Member Tony Shotwell
My guest today is Tony Shotwell, Grand Prairie City Council Member, Place 5. Our episode is sponsored by Jenna Pecor with Bancroft Realty and Jennarocity Estate Sales...if you're looking to downsize for yourself or a parent, this is Jenna's specialty! 214-558-4410
Grand Prairie City Council Member Junior Ezeonu
My guest today is Grand Prairie City Council Member Junior Ezeonu. Junior is the youngest council member ever elected in the history of Grand Prairie. We discuss issues all over the political spectrum, from term limits to being a partisan representative in a nonpartisan elected position. This video is sponsored and hosted by Jenna Pecor. Jenna is a Realtor with Bancroft Realty in Grand Prairie and provides estate sale services through her company, Jennarocity Estate Sales. If you are in the market for either of these services, reach out to Jenna at 214-558-4410!
GPHS Alum Robin Brown, Operator of JFK Custom Tours
Robin Brown is a wealth of knowledge on many subjects, but today we discuss the assassination of John F. Kennedy Jr and what led Robin to begin doing JFK tours in Dallas 12 years ago. We discuss the historical events leading up to the assassination and even incorporate some Grand Prairie history into the discussion. This episode is sponsored and hosted by Jenna Pecor, Realtor at Bancroft Realty in Grand Prairie, TX. Jenna has been a Realtor in North Texas since 2014 and looks forward to helping you with your real estate needs! Call her at 214-558-4410.To listen to Robin's first interview on the Faces of Grand Prairie podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show...To book a tour with Robin: https://www.jfkcustomtours.com/00:00 The Genesis of JFK Custom Tours10:37 The 1963 Lincoln Continental and the most recent anniversary16:30 Yearly Visitors to Dealey Plaze and the impact of the assassination on world history18:30 President Trump and the JFK/RFK/MLK Files30:13 The Disbelief of Baby Boomer Generation, will opening the files change anyone's mind? 34:23 The Military Industrial Complex, JFK Jr and the Vietnam War42:38 The Supply and Demand of the War Machine47:07 Bureacratic Control and Local Goverance49:26 What made Kennedy unique and dangerous to the people in Washington DC52:41 The Kennedy Family Legacy and Political Ambitions1:01:23 The 1960 Presidential Election1:05:44 JFKs 1960 Grand Prairie TX Campaign Stop and the Famous Picture on Main Street1:07:20 The Blue Political Landscape of Texas in 1960 1:21:20 Why No One In Washington DC Wanted Kennedy to Become President1:25:00 Kennedy and the Vietnam War1:38:00 Kennedy's Executive Order NSAM263, South Vietnam signed October 11, 19631:42:14 LBJ's Executive Order NSAM 273, November 26, 1963-A reveral of policy 1:46:00 Air Force General Ed Lansdale and CIA Director Alan Dulles1:52:00 No Live Coverage by the Press of the Motorcade and the Zapruder Film1:55:28 Public Perception and the Conspiracy Narrative 2:02:45 Lee Harvey Oswald: The Patsy2:16:45 The Warren Commission's Report2:19:285 The Impact of the Zapruder Film2:25:08 The Importance of a Private Citizen Documenting History2:32:14 The Public's Reaction to the Zapruder Film Upon it's Initial Release in 19752:40:15 Congressional Investigations and Findings2:49:33 Revival of Interest in the Assassination after Oliver Stone's 1991 Film2:53:09 Grand Prairie High School's Championship Win Against Witchita Falls on night after Kennedy's Assassination in November 22, 1963
The COPE Initiative
On this episode, we talk about COPE, an initiative through the Grand Prairie Police Department that stands for “Community Outreach Partnership and Education.” I talk with City Councilman Jeff Copeland, Supervisor Of the Crisis Support Unit Courtney Runnels, and Officer Greg New about how this unique initiative came to be. This innovative information-sharing program allows first responders to have immediate access to helpful information when encountering those in a mental health crisis. To learn more about this program or to sign up yourself or a family member, go to https://www.grandprairiepolice.org/services/cope-program
Mentors Care - Dena Petty and Crystal Gaither
Today, my guests are Dena Petty and Crystal Gaither with Mentors Care. Mentors Care is a 501C3 organization whose mission is to connect high school students who are at risk of not graduating with mentors, tools, and resources to help lead them toward graduation and purposeful, fulfilling lives. Mentors Care works with school districts that are historically underserved to enlist, train and equip adult volunteer mentors who care about and believe in the kids they serve. Crystal and Dena discuss how Mentors Care came to be and how it works within each school. We discuss the success stories from the organization and how mentors are trained throughout the process, how this differs from other mentorship programs and how it can greatly fill a need as students return back to school after the pandemic. Groups like this need you and other citizens who want to help students through this time and this episode will encourage and inspire you to do just that! I will have links to Mentor’s Care on the episode details so you can learn more about how to get involved. And now, here’s Crystal and Dena. To find out more about Mentors Care, go to https://mentors.care.
Esmerelda Rodriguez, District Director of the Grand Prairie Host Lions Club
Today my guest is Esmerelda Rodriguez. Esmerelda retired recently from the Grand Prairie Independent School District as the Parent Involvement Facilitator. Today we talk about her job responsibilities within the district and how she would help parents be involved with their children's education, as well as helping them discover resources when they needed them. We also discuss how she came to participate in the Grand Prairie Host Lions Club and how she came to be the district governor. She shares her story of how she would watch her parents stay involved in the community, even as they traveled the country as migrant workers, and how important purpose and community services is. Esmerelda is delightful and as a community member who watches her hard work and dedication to the city, she's truly inspirational and I'm honored to have her on the podcast. For more information about the Grand Prairie Host Lions Club, go to https://gphostlionsclub.com/index.html
Grand Prairie Mayor Pro Tem and Council Member Mike Del Bosque
Today my guest is Grand Prairie Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman Mike Del Bosque. Council Member Del Bosque was elected to represent District 3 in May 2017. We talk about mentorship and how community members like Ms. Ruthe Jackson came along and encouraged him to get involved more in his local community and in politics. We also discuss the new Mi Familia playground, the different features it will offer the community and how it was designed to encourage meeting more neighbors. Enjoy! To watch this interview via YouTube, visit the Faces of Grand Prairie on YouTube.
VanDella L. Menifee
Today my guest is Vandella Menifee. Vandella is retired from a career in the Department of Justice, first starting in the Atlanta Penitentiary System then eventually transferring to the Grand Prairie Office Complex in 2005. Vandella has become a professional volunteer in her retirement, working locally in Grand Prairie and Arlington with local elected officials, nonprofits and citizens to connect people to one another. She works hard at being a community advocate and on the day of our recording, she had received a proclamation from Jeff Williams, the Mayor of Arlington. Vandella talks to me about her journey to Grand Prairie and her first job as a community advocate – as an elementary school student fighting to keep her elementary school open! Vandella is a breath of fresh air and I can’t wait to speak with her again soon!
Shebra Hackett
My guest today is Shebra Hackett. Among many things she is involved in, Shebra owns an Allstate Insurance Agency in Grand Prairie and we talk today about how she got into the insurance industry and then came to own her own office. We discuss the great things that come from owning your own business and some of the challenges that come from balancing family and community priorities with running a successful business. Shebra is also involved in several local community advocacy and networking groups such as the Soroptimist International of Grand Prairie and the Grand Prairie Metro Rotary Club, where today she’ll be installed as the 2021-2022 President. Shebra is always so delightful to talk to and I’m so glad to have had her on to share some of her experiences as a business owner, a mom and a volunteer in her community. To find Shebra Hackett's business information, click here.
CIVICS SERIES: The Declaration of Independence
In this mini-episode, Jenna reads aloud the Declaration of Independence. https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript
Candidate Interviews, Grand Prairie June 5, 2021 Runoff Election District 6
Incumbent Jeff Wooldridge answers interview questions for the upcoming run-off election for District 6 in Grand Prairie's City Council Election. Challenger Kurt Johnson declined to participate in the interview. To learn more about Jeff Wooldridge: https://www.facebook.com/Jeff-Wooldridge-for-City-Council-District-6-206384646167158 To learn more about Kurt Johnson: https://www.facebook.com/KurtForGPCouncil
Martin Cabellero, President and CEO, Bon Air Service Co. Inc.
Today, I talk to Martin Cabellero, President and CEO of Bon Air Service Co. Inc. I caught up with Martin after he was named "Citizen of the Year" for 2020 from the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce. Martin took ownership of Bon Air after his mentor Cal Brundrett, retired. We talk today about mentorship and the importance of taking young people under our wings to help them find their place in our community and in the world, as well as how Martin got into the air conditioning business to begin with. Martin is just one of the nicest people to speak with and I was fortunate to have had this time with him! To learn more about Bon Air, go to http://www.bonairservice.com/ To learn more about the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce, go here: https://www.grandprairiechamber.org/
Candidate Interviews, Grand Prairie June 5, 2021 Runoff Election District 8
Incumbent Greg Giessner and Challenger Junior Ezeono answer questions in an interview to help voters know about them prior to the June 5, 2021 City Council Election for District 8. To learn more from Greg Giessner, go to his Facebook campaign page: www.facebook.com/greggiessnerG To learn more from Junior Ezeono, go to his Facebook campaign page: https://www.facebook.com/JuniorEzeonu
Scott Jeffries, Director of the Library, Dallas Baptist University
My guest today is Scott Jeffries. He’s the Director of the Library at Dallas Baptist University. Today, Scott and I talk about the job of a librarian at a university and some of the day to day help they give students. We talk about how to think critically about what you read in the news and discuss the obstacles students face in the current online landscape, as well as helping young people understand original source material and point of view. Being a literary and news junkie myself, I found this conversation especially enlightening and I greatly enjoyed discussing the nuances of the university library system and hearing how students are being helped to research within in it! To Support the podcast, go to paypal.me/facesofGP
Why Should Local News Matter?
Why should local news and local community matter? Jenna talks about why the podcast is GP focused. If you like what I am doing and want to support more of my local interviews with interesting residents and officials click here https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/facesofGP! https://youtu.be/M2AgIPXpNDc
Julie Harding, How We Can Create Intentional Relationships with our Neighbors
My guest today is Julie Harding. Julie and I were friends at a very young age, when we met as across the street neighbors in Grand Prairie as young kids. We talk today about being neighborly and what we feel are some of the reasons that neighbors in communities have gotten away from getting to know one another. We discuss the negative impact it has on the older and younger generations when we don't intentionally foster relationships with those who live on the same street as we do and how fostering those relationships creates positive outcomes for the mental health and well-being for all, especially teenagers who need the mentorship of the older generation. We also discuss how to create a neighborhood event that's lowkey and low stress, especially as we are moving forward from the pandemic. It was so good to spend some time catching up with a lifelong friend and I think you'll enjoy being a fly on the wall of our conversation.
CIVICS SERIES: Duane Strawn, Director of the Parks, Arts and Recreation Department of Grand Prairie
Today my guest is Duane Strawn, director of the Parks, Arts, and Recreation department of Grand Prairie. Duane talks to me today about his background as a landscape architect and how that fits into planning for a city. We talk about the unique vision of the grand prairie parks and recreation department compared to other cities and the city’s innovative attitude towards progress. We also discuss some of the things in the works and how people can get more involved to have a voice in their local government. It was a pleasure getting to know him better during this conversation! The sound on this one was kind of quiet, so I apologize for having to turn it up louder than normal! Find out more about Parks, Arts, and Recreation here
What is my goal with this podcast?
You might be asking yourself, “where is she going with this podcast? What’s the goal?” They are good questions and I want to answer them. I also discuss my mission of keeping the podcast positive and uplifting and how I would love to teach others to record interviews as well.
Monica Gonzales, Executive Director of the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Prairie
Today my guest is Monica Gonzales. She’s the new executive director of the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Prairie. Monica and I sat down at the center to discuss what this nonprofit does for our community. We discuss the center’s mission of helping women make informed decisions when facing an unplanned pregnancy. We discuss the center’s partnerships with local churches and why that’s important, why it’s important to partner with a charity you are passionate about, and how we can encourage and mentor young people to become more involved citizens in their communities. I had such a welcoming and uplifting visit with everyone at the center and my spirit was truly encouraged with this interview. Make sure to check out the podcast description for contact information if you are interested in learning more about the center. To learn more about the PRC of GP website here For Tickets to the Laugh for Life Fundraising Event Friday, April 30, click here To contact the center regarding volunteer opportunities, the bottle fundraising drive for your church, or the upcoming Applauding Life Banquet, contact the center at 972.642.3877
Matthew Loh, Owner of Asia Times Square
Today my guest is Matthew Loh, owner of Asia Times Square. Asia Times Square at Pioneer and Great Southwest has been in Grand Prairie for about 13 years with Matthew leading its’ vision and mission. Matthew and I talk about his background before his family opened Asia Times Square, the value in overcoming adversity and being passionate about your purpose. We talk about how much he values his relationships within Grand Prairie, within the city, the business community and the police and how impactful cultivating those relationships are when starting a business. He also talks about some of the upcoming events and some of his future expansion projects. Matthew was delightful and I really enjoyed our conversation and I know you will as well. https://asiatimessquare.com/ https://www.thelohfoundation.org/
CIVICS SERIES: Linda Ellis, Superintendent for Grand Prairie Independent School District
My guest today is Linda Ellis, superintendent of Grand Prairie Independent School District. She talks with me today about her background in business and education before becoming the superintendent for GPISD. We discuss coming into leadership during times of crisis and how the district handled unexpectedly losing its’ leader and the pandemic within an 8 month period and why Linda felt led to help during such a pivotal time. We talk about mentorship, what the position of a superintendent entails and how the district will move forward into the 2021-2022 school year. I want to thank Linda for such a welcoming conversation!
Jenna Answers the Question: "Why Are You Doing This Podcast?"
To find out more about the podcast, visit www.facesofgrandprairie.com!
CIVICS SERIES: Candidate Endorsements and Why They Matter
In this mini-episode, I explain political action committees and why they matter in local candidate endorsements. I give 3 questions to consider when researching the endorsements a candidate receives before voting. I also explain why I wasn't able to interview local candidates this year but why I hope to do so moving forward in future elections. Guide to the May 1, 2021 Grand Prairie Ballot: https://www.gptx.org/city-government/city-secretary/elections
CIVICS SERIES: Emily Liles, GPISD Trustee Place 6
Today my guest is Emily Liles. Emily is a Grand Prairie School Board trustee for Place 6. Emily and I talk about a wide variety of topics today including the role of a school board trustee and how she came to run for a seat, the evolution of GPISD over the last decade and the importance of districts to keep up with the needs of the community to graduate educated and trained students for tomorrow. We also discuss many of the options for students in GPISD and how the campuses have grown and changed to adapt. If it’s been a while since you’ve graduated or have had kids in the district, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at some of the incredible things this district is doing!
CIVICS SERIES: Greg Giessner, Grand Prairie City Councilman At-Large
My guest today is Grand Prairie City Councilman Greg Giessner. Councilman Giessner holds one of the at-large positions which serves the entire city. Recently, he initiated the new Government 101 section on the city of Grand Prairie’s website, a space that allows citizens to learn more about the basics of their city government. We talk today about the importance of learning more about how government works and about some of the obstacles a city goes through to initiate change. We also talk about growing up in the city of Grand Prairie, having mentors who encourage us to get involved and what it’s like to now be a councilman amongst constituents who raised you. Councilman Giessner is always delightful to talk with and he was so excited to have an opportunity to teach me more about how the city of Grand Prairie runs and I know you will get a lot out of our conversation!
Derrick Kinney, Host of the Podcast Good Money with Derrick Kinney
My guest today is Derrick Kinney, host of the podcast Good Money with Derrick Kinney. Derrick is a financial advisor and author, and he talks with me today about his goal of changing people's mindsets about money. He is focused on helping people change their attitudes about money, by encouraging people to not only like making it but also to see it as necessary for helping others. In our conversation, we talk about the benefits of giving our money a purpose, which helps us to be more intentional about making a lot more of it and giving a lot more of it. Derrick interviews the world's top professionals, authors, influencers and business leaders for their practical money and business advice. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation and I'm confident you'll gain a lot of useful information from it, as well. Find Derrick's podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to your podcasts: Good Money with Derrick Kinney You can find Derrick on Facebook Here You can find Derrick on Instagram Here
CIVICS SERIES: Savannah Ware, Chief City Planner for Grand Prairie
Today I'm talking with Savannah Ware, Chief City Planner for the city of Grand Prairie. Savannah talks with me today about a variety of topics, including zoning, long term planning, and moratoriums. She does a great job of explaining what these things mean to give us a deeper understanding as citizens about how this part of our city government functions. I appreciate her taking the time to speak with me, it was a very informative hour and I hope you all get great takeaways from it! This is the first interview in a new series I'm hoping to continue about the interworkings of local city government. Leave a comment on the Facebook page and tell me what department you'd like to learn about next!
Monica Saldivar, Nominee for Best New Female Artist - 2020 Tejano Music Awards
Today my guest is Monica Saldivar. Monica grew up and lives in Grand Prairie and is a graduate of Dallas Baptist University. She is currently a nominee for Best New Female Artist at the Tejano Music Awards on December 19, 2020 at 7 pm. Monica is also a piano teacher and a singing coach. We talked today about how her life changed by going to a performing arts high school, as well as how she’s helping her students express some of the emotional ups and downs of this year through music expression. We talk about how she got into Tejano music and the journey of her career so far. Her self-titled Album is available on iTunes, Amazon Music, YouTube, or any major streaming service. Monica was truly delightful, and is a bright rising star and I really enjoyed our conversation. Cole Humphreys from the Hot N Cole podcast co-hosted with me today, where he graciously allowed us to record with his studio. Find Monica on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/monicasaldivarmusic/?ref=page_internal Find Monica online Here: http://www.monicasaldivar.com/ Watch the 40th Annual Tejano Music Awards here: https://www.tejanomusicawards.com/
Terry Brooks and Charles Luckert
My guests today are Terry Brooks and Charles Luckert. Terry Brooks is the trustee for Place 1 of the Grand Prairie Independent School District. Charles Luckert is the founder of the Grand Prairie At a Glance Facebook groups. Terry and Charles graduated from South Grand Prairie High School in 1974 and are lifelong Grand Prairians. I talk with them today about their high school experience and becoming citizens involved in community service and hometown pride. My friend Cole Humphreys with the HotnCole podcast was kind enough to let us use his recording studio and his voice also pops up every once in a while in our episode. Without further ado here are my friends, Terry Brooks and Charles Luckert. *The episode picture is Terry and Charles in high school and was taken at the State Fair of Texas. I loved it so much I asked if I could use it for this episode! Find Terry at GPISD School Board Find Charles at https://www.facebook.com/charles.luckert.7 On Facebook search "Grand Prairie at a Glance" to find the groups you'd be most interested in. Find the HotNCole Podcast on YouTube at HotNCole
CIVIS SERIES: Bryan Parra, Grand Prairie ISD School Board Trustee
My guest today is Bryan Parra. Bryan is a current Grand Prairie ISD School Board Trustee representing Place 2 and an elementary assistant principal in DISD. Bryan grew up on the East Coast but moved to Texas in 2003, graduation from South Grand Prairie in 2005. He went on to get his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M and his masters in educational leadership from DBU. Bryan is a very involved community leader and volunteer – he works closely with The League of United Latin American Citizens, he is a member of the Grand Prairie Host Lyons Club, and the North Texas Region Omega Delta Phi Alumni Association, among others. Today, Bryan and I talk about not only being a school board trustee but also an administrator during the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the importance of kids getting back into school and the obstacles some of these students in our district are facing during online learning, including those in our hispanic community. Bryan is always such a nice person to talk to and I’m glad that even though he’s right in the thick of getting ready for the school year, he had time to talk to me! Find Bryan on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Bryan4GPISD/
Gold Medal Olympian Jennifer McFalls, Head Softball Coach at University of Kansas
Today my guest is Jennifer McFalls. Jennifer is a South Grand Prairie High school alumni and one of it’s most accomplished athletes. She was a softball player who went on to play for Texas A&M University She then played for the USA Olympic Softball Team as an alternate in 1996, then won the gold medal in the 2000 games in Sydney, Australia. She is now the head softball coach at the University of Kansas. Jennifer talks to me today about how she got into the sport of softball and how it changed the course of her life. She also talks with me about some of the struggles college athletes are going through during this pandemic and how she’s handling keeping a college sports team in the time of COVID-19. This conversation was taped earlier in the quarantine and even though this pandemic has slowed her schedule down for coaching softball, I’m so very grateful it allowed me the opportunity to get some time to talk with her. Jennifer is just one of the nicest, most humble people and I’m so appreciative she took the time so without further ado, here’s Jennifer McFalls. https://www.teamusa.org/usa-softball/athletes/Jennifer-McFalls
CIVICS SERIES: Rodney Anderson, Former Texas Representative
Today my guest is Rodney Anderson. Rodney is a life-long Grand Prairian who graduated from Grand Prairie High School in 1986, and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate from UTA in 1990. In 2010, he decided to serve his city and was elected to serve in the Texas House of Representatives. During his time in office, he fought for the private property rights of citizens of the state, and was recognized named to the 2011 Legislative Honor Roll by the Texas Association of Realtors. In 2019, he was elected as the Chairman of the Dallas County Republican Party. He talks to me about how bills become laws, how citizens of this state can change legislation through their elected officials and how to have an effective voice in their state of Texas.
Carson Kidd, Co-founder and Co-owner of Moravian Coffee
We are continuing our Entrepreneur Week with a discussion no entrepreneur can live without – coffee! Today, I welcome Carson Kidd, Cofounder and CoOwner of Moravian Coffee. Carson and two of his childhood friends and fellow graduates of Oklahoma University started a coffee roasting company right out of college and decided to open up shop right here in Grand Prairie. We talk today about the decision to make coffee their business, what it is like working with friends, and the challenges of being a new business owner and handling something like COVID-19 right out of the gate. He also gives me an educational lesson in coffee beans and the process of learning how to roast them. Enjoy! You can order packages of their coffee flavors online at https://www.moraviancoffee.com/ Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MoravianCoffee/ Watch this episode via video on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Wl7UDJ8liX4
Sophia Whitehead, Owner of Local Bunny Farm, "Dallas Bunny Love"
Hello listeners and welcome to Entrepreneur Week! My guest today is Sophia Whitehead. Sophia has a dear place in my heart – she is my daughter Avery’s sister...I met her when she was 4 and since the day I’ve met her, she has loved animals! She’s always talked about raising animals and recently, she’s been raising and breeding rabbits. Today, we talk about caring for bunnies and rabbits, some different types of breeds she’s had and what she is learning about running a business. I’m so proud of her and the work she’s putting into caring for her rabbits and I am so glad she came on to talk with me today. You can find her website on the links to this episode if you are interested in purchasing a bunny, and also can find this episode on our YouTube channel if you would like to see the bunnies we are talking about in the episode. Enjoy! You can find Sophia's bunnies here: https://dallasbunnylove.com/ You can find this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA
Todd Mayo, Financial Advisor with Farmers Insurance
Todd Mayo has a history of working with the community of Grand Prairie in the financial planning industry. Todd talks to me today about a variety of financial topics, including estate planning, investing, how to read headlines relating to financial information and how to have perspective about the things going on currently with the economy. We look at a document together that discusses what keeps us up at night regarding financial matters and how we can talk about it with the people who help us overcome the stresses. My daughter even makes it into the video for a few seconds. I was going to edit it out, but thought, "Nope. This is all our lives right now - interruptions!" Enjoy!! You can find Todd online at: https://www.facebook.com/todd.mayo.79 Find the Faces of Grand Prairie Podcast here: https://anchor.fm/facesofgrandprairie
Tiffany and Nathan Ross, SiteGuard Inspection Services
Today, I'm talking with Tiffany and Nathan Ross, owners of Siteguard Inspection Services in Grand Prairie. Nathan was able to join us at the end after he was finished with an inspection. Tiffany and I talk about running a business, starting a business from scratch online, juggling running a business with your spouse as your business partner, and creating boundaries when working from home. We also discuss what an inspector's job is and how they can help anyone, even those who might be looking to sell their home in the future, and want to see how to get it "list ready." Enjoy! Find SiteGuard Inspection Services online at https://www.sginspectionservices.com/ Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SGInspections/ Find us on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA/
Christian Pryor, SGPHS Class of 2020!
Today on the podcast I welcome Christian Pryor. Christian is a senior at South Grand Prairie High School. He's spent his high school career in a number of activities, from Theater, to DECA, National Honor Society and more. He talks with us today about his plans after graduation, his interests while he's been in school, and how he's been keeping himself busy while sheltering at home. Christian was such a delight to talk to and I'm so glad he was willing! Enjoy! Find us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/facesofgrandprairie/ Support the podcast with a donation here: paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie
Coltrane Lins, GPHS Senior Class of 2020!
Welcome back to GPISD Seniors Week on the podcast! Today, I’m welcoming Coltrane Lins. Coltrane is a Senior at Grand Prairie High School. He’s a member of Show Choir and has been involved in Scouting since he was little. He talks to me today about what he’s missing the most during this shelter in place and what he and his friends have been doing to keep busy and keep connected while being at home. Enjoy!! Find us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/facesofgrandprairie/ Support the podcast with a donation here: paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie
Samantha Vargas, SGPHS Senior Class of 2020!
Welcome to GPISD Seniors Week on the podcast! Today, I’m welcoming South Grand Prairie High School senior Samantha Vargas. Samantha is Senior Lieutenant for the Cheyennes, a member of the National Honor Society, and was a BETA Club member for the for SGP Early College High School. Not only is Samantha graduating this year as a Warrior, but she is also graduating with her Associates of Science degree from Mountain View College at the same time! She was such a delight to talk to, and I know there are big things in the works for this hard-working young lady! I had a video of our interview and unfortunately, the video file was corrupted from Zoom as it downloaded, so I only have audio of our interview....I was so sad because she did the interview in front of all her mums! but I was able to find a picture of her and her mum for homecoming that I’m putting on the video for YouTube because we do talk about it in the interview, and I certainly want you to see it because it’s a sight to see! Without further ado, here’s Samantha Vargas! Find us on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA Support the podcast financially with a much appreciated Paypal donation! paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie
Randy Jennings, Sports Writer for the Dallas Morning News and Alumni of GPHS
Before we were social distancing, Randy Jennings and I sat down on a beautiful day outside the Summit to talk about his long career as a sports writer and journalist. He worked for The Grand Prairie Daily News after graduating from Grand Prairie High School, until it closed in the 2000's. Since then, he's contributed to publications such ESPN Online and is currently a Sports Writer for the Dallas Morning News. Randy talks with me about how journalism has changed over the decades from a written to the online medium, what it's like to work for a local newspaper and some of his favorite moments in reporting. Please excuse some of the background noise - it was one of the first pretty days of Spring so we just had to sit outside! Find Randy online at https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-jennings-216429a/ And https://www.dallasnews.com/author/randy-jennings/
Jonathan Richards, SGP Alum and Emmy Winning Event Cameraman
Today, I'm joined by long-time friend Jonathan Richards. Jonathan and I have known each other from when we were youth at Inglewood Baptist Church. Jonathan has been in television production and camera work for quite some time, recording sports games for the Mavs, Stars and Rangers, television events such as the George Bush Memorial Service, and has even won a Sports Emmy for his work for the Olympics. Jonathan is a super great guy and I'm happy he had time to sit down with me! #facesofgrandprairie Find the podcast at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA Find Jonathan at https://www.facebook.com/Jonathan.David.Richards Find host Jenna Pecor at www.jennapecor.com
Dr. Bill Skaar, Pastor at First Baptist Church Grand Prairie
Today, I talk with Dr. Skaar, the pastor of First Baptist Church in Grand Prairie. Dr. Skaar has been with FBCGP for many years and has a deep connection to this city. He and I talk about how COVID-19 has changed the landscape of attending church services, including participating in the Lord's Supper and Easter Sunday. We discuss how we should reach out to God with our feelings and process things happening around us, and talk about how reading the Bible reminds us that we've been through times like this in history many times over - and that God is in control and He can still use times like this for His glory. Find First Baptist here: https://fbcgp.org/ Watch past sermons and live telecasts here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdw0... Find First Baptist on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/firstbaptistgp/