THNX: A Feelgood Podcast: Recent Episodes
Rand Mintzer and Avery Lalumandier
With negativity and dire news surrounding us, it is important to remember the good people who take action to make our world better. THNX is a feelgood podcast that gives people a chance to recognize someone who -- even through a very small interaction -- had a positive and profound impact on their lives.
Gary Tyler, from St. Rose, Louisiana, was sentenced to death and spent 41 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. Despite his wrongful conviction and incarceration, he led an exemplary life behind bars in service of others, including quilting as a way to raise money for the prison's hospice program. Since his release in 2016, he has continued creating, and some of his art is featured in the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. He was the 2019 and 2020 Art Matters Awardee and released his memoir "Stitching Freedom" in 2025. Gary calls Los Angeles, California home.
Denise Peterson is a full-time professional neutral, focusing her practice exclusively on dispute resolution services. She mediates civil cases and is on several arbitration panels. In addition to being licensed as an attorney in Texas and New York, she is a solicitor to the Senior Courts of England and Wales. During the Spring and Fall semesters at South Texas College of Law, Ms. Peterson becomes professor Peterson as she teaches both the mediation clinic and negotiation experiential learning classes. She also serves on the American Bar Association Legal Education in Dispute Resolution committee.
Judge Manpreet "Monica" Singh is a native Houstonian who earned her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Texas at Austin and her JD from South Texas College of Law. She made history as Texas's first Sikh Judge as well as the first female Sikh Judge in the U.S. when she was elected to Harris County Civil Court at Law #4 in 2022. Prior, she was a practicing attorney for 21 years and has received numerous awards and recognitions, served on multiple boards, and sits as a Chapter Representative for the American Board of Trial Advocates. Monica has two sons and calls Houston, Texas home.
Anno Da Poet is a spoken-word artist and slam poet. A native Houstonian, he is an active featured performer, host, and recurring competitor with the Write About Now (WAN) Poetry organization. He also founded Bayou City Hoops, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit designed to foster amateur sports competition and youth development. Anno calls Houston, Texas home.
Laura Mayo is the Senior Minister at Covenant Church in Houston, Texas. She graduated from Carson-Newman College and Wake Forest Divinity School in addition to further studies at Regent's Park College of Oxford University. A sought after speaker, she has extensive knowledge on topics such as women's roles in the Bible, LGBTQIA+ rights & inclusion, and Biblical ethics. Her writing has appeared in articles in The Houston Chronicle, Baptist News Global, and publications of the Alliance of Baptists. Laura and her two sons make their home in Houston.
Calvin Johnson, Ph.D. is the Dean of the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Eastern Washington University, a Master's Degree in Sociology/Research Methods from Temple University, and a Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland-College Park. Prior to his current role, he served dual roles as the Associate Director of the Office of Research and Evaluation and the Performance Improvement Officer at the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency, then went on to serve 12 years as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Research, Evaluation, and Monitoring at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Policy Development and Research. Having also worked in research positions at the University of Pennsylvania, The Urban Institute, and with the Executive Office of the Mayor of the District of Columbia, he serves as a Commissioner on the United States Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys as well as was elected as a Fellow for the National Academy of Public Administration. Calvin calls Houston, Texas home.
Adavion Wayne is the Director of Education at Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) in Houston, Texas. Originally from Louisiana, he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from the University of Louisiana Monroe and his Master's Degree in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington. Throughout his career, he has served as a teacher, department chair, instructional coordinator, magnet coordinator, assistant pricipal, associate principal, interim principal, and principal apprentice. Adavion calls Houston home.
Joanna Whaley has lived in Southeast Michigan her whole life and is now running for State Representative for House District 2 to serve her community. She earned her Bacherlor's Degree in Arts Management from Eastern Michigan University, attended the University of Michigan for Clinical Pastoral Education and a Clinical Pastoral Education Residency, and received her Master of Arts in Theology and Theological Studies from Wartburg Theological Seminary. As a transgender woman running to represent every member of the district, a clinical spiritual care provider in local hospitals, and a parent, some of her top issues include civil liberties, economic fairness, healthcare access, and public safety. Joanna and her family make their home in Detroit, Michigan.
Sig Muller is an author, motivational speaker, consultant, and founder. He was on the swimming team at Northwestern University in Illinois, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering; following, he received his MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Darmouth in New Hampshire. His career includes leadership roles at Accenture, Ben & Jerry's, Mayo Clinic, UnitedHealth Group General Mills, and multiple startups. In 2024, he survived a sudden cardiac arrest that reshaped his mission, which led him to write and publish "Dying to Be the World's Best" in 2025. Sig makes his home in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Brian Warren was elected to be Judge of the 209th Criminal District Court in Harris County, Houston, Texas in 2018. Originally from New York, he earned his Bachelors of Business Administration from James Madison University in 1997 then his Juris Doctorate from St. Mary's School of Law in 2001. His entire legal career has been dedicated to the practice of criminal law, starting his own criminal defense practice, serving as an Assistant District Attorney in Harris County, and, most recently, being elected to the bench. Brian, his wife, and their three children make their home in Houston, Texas.
Andrew Lienhard is a pianist and software developer. After graduating from the High School of the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas, he earned both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Mathematics from the University of Houston, then another Master's Degree in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from the University of California at Berkeley. In addition to composing and playing jazz music on his own, he plays piano and keyboards in The Crusaders Experience, a group of musicians based in Houston who celebrate the legacy of The Crusaders. Andrew, his wife, and their pets live in Houston, Texas.
Dan Simons was born and raised in Southeast Texas and became the first person in his family to graduate from high school. He then graduated from Sam Houston State University at the top of his class, went on to attend Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and earned his Master's Degree in Tax Law from the University of Houston. He has handled many cases as Assistant District Attorney and as Misdeeanor Chief in Criminal Court No. 14. Dan now has his own practice, Dan Simons Law Firm, in Houston, Texas.
Special episode! Terry Lord & Chris Tritico discuss law and the justice department under the current administration. Terry worked as a prosecutor in the US Department of Justice, Criminal Division for nearly 30 years, even prosecuting the first RICO case against the Mafia. Chris has been a criminal defense attorney for his entire career, handling cases in both state and federal courts, including the Oklahoma City Bombing trial.
Judge Walter "Bud" Paulissen was appointed to begin hearing cases in 2019 by then-Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in 1977 from the University of Texas at Austin and his Juris Doctor in 1980 from the University of Texas School of Law. Following graduation, he worked in corporate and private law practice from 1980-1990, then served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in San Antonio and Houston, Texas from 1990-2000. He went on to work as the Chief of Major Crimes until 2013 and served as an assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Texas until 2019. Judge Paulissen lives in San Antonio, Texas.
Erica Lee Carter served as the U.S. Representative for Texas's 18th Congressional District from 2024-2025. The daughter of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, she earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and her Master of Public Policy from Duke University, then went on to work as a teacher in the Houston Independent School District and quality coordinator for a nonprofit public health organization before entering politics. She also served on the Board of Trustees of the Harris County Department of Education from 2013-2019. After being defeated for a Senate seat in 2016, she ran to complete her mother's term in Congress following her passing in 2024 and won, serving as a member of the U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary. Erica, her husband, and their two children call Houston, Texas home.
Robert Fickman is a criminal defense attorney in Texas. He graduated from the University of Houston Law School and has been practicing for nearly 40 years. A past president of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, he defends people from all walks of life, both in State and Federal Court, is a frequent lecturer locally and nationally, was named one of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers' Best Speakers, and received the Harris County & Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer's President's Award in 2018 and Harris County's Torch of Liberty Award in 2019. Robert lives in Houston, Texas.
Paul Glastris is a journalist and political columnist. Born and raised in the St. Louis, Missouri area, he earned a Bachelor's Degree in History in 1981 and a Master's Degree in Radio in 1982, both from Northwestern University. Upon graduation, he moved to Washington, D.C., began working as a freelance writer, was a correspondent and editor for U.S. News & World Report from 1988-1998, speechwrote for President Bill Clinton from 1998-2001, and has been Editor-in-Chief of Washington Monthly since. Paul has two children with his late wife Kukula and lives in Washington, D.C.
Curtis McMurtry is a singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist from Austin, Texas. After studying music composition and ethnomusicology in college, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee. He performs both as a soloist and part of a group, has been featured on NPR's Weekend Edition, had a song included in the sountrack for One Mississippi on Amazon Prime, and released The Pollen & The Rot, the first of four albums inspired by the seasons, in 2024. Curtis moved back to Austin and calls the city home.
Jeff Galloway was born in North Carolina and attended Florida State University and Weslayan University. He was an All-American Collegiate Athlete and an Olympian; he competed in the 1972 Olympics, running the 10,000 meter race for the United States. He was an author, inspirational speaker, lifelong runner, founder of the running store Phidippedes, and the inventor of the run/walk /run method, which allowed him to work with and mentor over 300,000 runners. A friend of THNX and countless others, Jeff passed away last week and is survived by his wife Barbara and their two adult sons.
Jeff Galloway was born in North Carolina and attended Florida State University and Weslayan University. He was an All-American Collegiate Athlete and an Olympian; he competed in the 1972 Olympics, running the 10,000 meter race for the United States. He was an author, inspirational speaker, lifelong runner, founder of the running store Phidippedes, and the inventor of the run/walk /run method, which allowed him to work with and mentor over 300,000 runners. A friend of THNX and countless others, Jeff passed away last week and is survived by his wife Barbara and their two adult sons.
Sarah Golden is a folk singer-songwriter and guitar player. Her debut album, Truth, was released in 2002. She was a top-30 finalist on Season 2 of The Voice on Team CeeLo Green, was a top-100 finalist on Season 4 of America's Got Talent, has won mulitple awards in addition to one-of-ten grants from Howlin' Dog Music Group, and has shared the stage with numerous other acclaimed artists, as well as being a strong voice with sociopolitical activism and human rights advocacy. Sarah is a Houston, Texas native and still calls the city home.
Brad Sullivan has been the Vicar of Lord of the Streets Episcopal Church, a congregation dedicated to life & ministry with the homeless population of Houston, Texas, since 2022. Originally from Houston, he went to the University of Texas then Virginia Theological Seminary, getting ordained in 2005. He served in parish ministry for 17 years prior to his current position and is a published author as well as a singer/songwriter and guitar player. Brad calls Houston home.
Rodica Gonzalez was an accomplished violinist who began playing when she was just four years old. Originally from Romania, she earned a Master's Degree in Violin Performance from Rice University. She was a member of the first violin section of the Houston Symphony, toured internationally, performed at Carnegie Hall multiple times, and taught at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. Not only a friend of THNX but a personal friend of the host, Rodica passed away this week surrounded by loved ones. She is survived by her husband Robert and their son Matthew.
UPDATE: Jonathan Fombonne was appointed to serve as Harris County Attorney in Houston, Texas in January 2026.
Jonathan Fombonne is the Deputy County Attorney and First Assistant County Attorney in Harris County, Texas. After graduating from Swarthmore College and the University of Michigan Law School, he started his career with a clerkship for Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, Judge Solomon Oliver, Jr. Prior to his current appointment, he practiced law at law firms in Texas and New York, maintained a significant pro bono practice, and was a partner at Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Jonathan, his wife Lauren, and their children live in Houston, Texas.
Judge Mark Davidson currently serves as the Multi-District Litigation Judge for all asbestos cases in the State of Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Texas and a Doctor of Jurisprudence at the University of Houston Law School. Following graduation, he worked as an attorney and Master (Associate Judge) until being elected Judge of the 11th District Court in Harris County in 1989, where he presided over more than 450 jury trials. He has received numerous honors and awards including "Trial Judge of the Year", lectured at seminars and conferences throughout Texas, and been featured in various publications. Mark, his wife Sarah, and their two sons call Houston, Texas home.
Randy Schaffer is a criminal defense attorney. He received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Texas in 1970 and earned his JD from the University of Texas School of Law in 1973. Licensed to practice before the US Supreme Court, multiple US Courts of Appeals, multiple US District Courts, and the Texas State Courts, he is a member of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Harris County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, American Bar Association, and Houston Bar Association. He has written numerous articles and papers that have been published and spoken at seminars for various organizations in addition to being featured in many newspapers and magazines. Randy survived his wife Mollie and lives with his two sons in Houston, Texas.
Biju Sukumaran is an award-winning, internationally published journalist, author, photographer, speaker, and self-help coach. Since graduating from Texas A&M University, he has worked as a columnist for National Geographic Traveller; contributed to Esquire, Vogue, GQ, and many other national and international publications; co-wrote the book Oldest Houston; founded Science of Self-Help; and appeared as a guest speaker at numerous events and on various podcasts. Biju calls Houston, Texas home.
Richard Reyes has been playing the character of Pancho Claus in Houston and the Rio Grande Valley for over 40 years. Pancho Claus is a Tex-Mex Santa that grew out of the Chicano civil rights movement and is often referred to as being Santa's cousin from the South Pole. In addition to running programs throughout the year to assist kids and teens who are struggling, he coordinates toy drives year round and parades along city streets on Christmas morning with low-riders and a jazz band to deliver meals and gifts to children from low-income families. Having raised over $20,000, he and his team of volunteers are set to distribute over 10,000 presents this year. Richard calls Houston, Texas home.
Dr. H Denise Wooten has over 30 years of specialized training and experience in pediatric psychiatry and developmental disorders. She earned her Doctor of Psychology Degree from Baylor University, served a post-doctoral fellowship in Child Clinical Psychology at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, and is a member of the American Psychological Association. Denise lives in Flower Mound, Texas.
Carlo Taboada is an attorney in Brownsville, Texas. After serving in the US Marine Corps from 2001-2006, he decided to begin his legal career and specialize in immigration. Once graduated from Texas State University and Texas Tech University, he worked as a lawyer in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas area and served as a State Bar of Texas District Director before leaving to start his own firm, Carlo Taboada Law Firm, PLLC. Carlo makes his home in Texas.
DJ Bracken is the founder of the Utah Lunch Debt Relief Foundation. He created the organization after learning of the immense lunch debt of Utah schools and donating $835 of his own money to an elementary school in his community. As of Summer 2025, UTLDR has raised over $50,000 and paid off the lunch debt of 12 different Utah schools. His advocacy also helped pass HB100, legislation that directly impacts kids' lunch in Utah schools. DJ lives with his daughter Liara in Utah.
Dr. Beata Lerman is a distinguished scientist with over 22 years of biomedical development experience renowned for her work in immuno-oncology and cancer research at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Inspired by her personal battle with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, she co-invented and patented two cancer immunotherapy treatments. After seeing the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially on health compromised people, she founded Sinless Treats LLC and became a partner in Revogreen Inc. Beata makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Sandy Weinmann is the General Manager of KPFT 90.1 FM Houston. He earned a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Maryland College Park and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston. With extensive experince in technologies, he was a programmer at KPFT for many years prior to serving as the Interim General Manager from 2022-2025. Sandy makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Judge Genesis Draper, born and raised in Texas, earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Spelman College and her Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Texas at Austin School of Law. Upon graduation, she moved to Nashville, Tennessee and began her career as an Assistant Public Defender. She later moved to Houston, Texas, where she served as Assistant Public Defender at both the federal and state levels before becoming the first Black female to lead Harris County's Public Defender's office in July of 2025. Genesis makes her home in Houston with her husband and their two children.
Woody Witt is an active performer, composer and educator based in Houston, Texas. Witt has 13 CDs to his credit as a leader or coleader and most of his CD's feature original music. He plays saxophone and has had the opportunity to perform with some of the most well known jazz musicians of our time.
Melissa Rippy has been a Director of Libraries & Instructional Materials in Texas since 2019. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Baylor University, a Master's Degree in Educational Psychology from Baylor Unviersity, and a Master's Degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Houston. Prior to her current position, she worked as a Teacher and Librarian, Library Manager, and Libraries & Instructional Materials Specialist. Melissa makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Keith Stroup graduated from the University of Illinois in 1965 then Georgetown University Law Center in 1968 before founding the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) in 1970. After leaving his post at NORML in 1979, he worked as a lobbyist and was hired as the Executive Director of the National Association for Criminal Defense Lawyers from 1989 through 1994 before returning to NORML as Executive Director for another decade. He now serves as legal counsel for NORML and recently published a book on its history. Keith makes his home in Washington, DC.
Oliver Penn is a musician who was born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. He moved to Houston, Texas before high school then returned to Providence for college. A self-taught guitar player, drummer, and songwriter, he has shared the stage with many prominent performers. Oliver now makes his home in Texas.
Lee Guerrero has been an immigration and criminal defense attorney for 34 years. Originally from Nicaragua, she attended the University of Texas for her undergraduate degree and earned her JD from South Texas College of Law in 1993. Lee and her husband have two adult sons and make their home in Houston, Texas.
Brandi Doming created the popular blog The Vegan 8 in 2013 and later authored The Vegan 8 Cookbook. Also a contributor to Forks over Knives magazine, she just released her second cookbook, Vegan Wholesome, which debuted as the #1 Best Selling Vegan Cookbook. Brandi and her daughter live in Houston, Texas.
Chris Rodell is an author, speaker, and storyteller. After graduating from Ohio University, he wrote for the Nashville Banner, National Enquirer, and many other large publications from 1992-2012 in addition to being a college professor. He won the 2018 TINARA Award for best satire for his debut novel and has since released 10 more books. Chris, his wife, and their two daughters live in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.
Justice Brad Hart earned his undergraduate degree from Baylor University in 1993 and his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in 1997. After law school, he was a trial prosecutor in the Harris County District Attorney's office for 16 years, even being honored as "Prosecutor of the Year" by the Texas Narcotics Officers' Association in 2011. He was appointed Judge of the 230th District Court in 2013 and was recognized as "Judge of the Year" by the Texas Gang Investigators' Association in 2018. Following, he served as the Chief of the General Felony Trial Division at the Fort Bend County District Attorney's office before being elected to the 14th Court of Appeals in 2024. Brad makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Jeannine Barr was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisianana and graduated from Louisiana State University Law School. She was an Assistant District Attorney in Harris County in Houston, Texas for nine years before running and being elected as a Criminal District Court Judge for 24 years. After stepping down from the bench, she embarked on a new journey as a singer and songwriter. Jeannine and her husband live in Houston, Texas.
Ilea Newcomb, a third generation Texan, graduated with a degree in Children's Literature from the University of Findlay in Ohio. After working for the Parks & Recreation department for 10 years, she began teaching art, first at YES Prep then at Conroe High School. She is also a children's book illustrator, voice actor, and marathoner. Ilea, her husband, and their 5 kids live in Houston, Texas.
Lance Cowan, a musician, publicist, and manager, was born and raised in Kentucky and moved to Nashville, Tennessee to pursue a songwriting career in 1984. He met and was encouraged by the great John Prine and has now been a respected member of the entertainment community for over three decades. Although heavily entrenched in the Roots & Americana fields, he has worked with artists in almost every genre in addition to companies that specialize in education and public speaking. So Far So Good, his acclaimed debut album, was released in 2024, followed by his sophomore album Against the Grain in March 2025. Lance and his wife have two sons and live in Nashville.
Peter Cho is a Designer and Co-Founder of Jack Mason Brand watches. After moving from coast to coast in his youth, he earned his BFA in Product Design from Parsons School of Design in New York, New York and went on to work as a Designer at Movado Group in 2006. He moved to Dallas, Texas in 2010 to work as a Designer at Fossil and founded Jack Mason in 2015 to bring the world premium watches for enthusiasts of all levels. Peter now calls Dallas home.
Hyman Penn is a retired pediatrician; he graduated from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio in 1982 and went on to practice for over 40 years. The son of Holocaust survivors, he is a longtime docent and board member at the Holocaust Museum Houston. In his free time, he practices magic, enjoys bike riding, and travels. Hyman lives in Houston, Texas.
Kate Germond is the Executive Director of Centurion Ministries: Seeking Freedom for The Innocent in Prison, a nonprofit organization that works to exonerate people serving life sentences or death penalty sentences for crimes they did not commit. After moving to New York, New York from Mendocino, California in 1986, she joined the 501c3 and dedicated her life to the exonerees in 1987. Kate and her husband call New York home.
Mark Metzger III is a criminal defense attorney born and raised in Missouri City, Texas. After graduating from the Marine Military Academy in 1999, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2000, where he trained as a cryptologic linguist and earned honors as the Honor Graduate of his class. He went on to earn his law degree from South Texas College of Law in 2012 and has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyers "Rising Star" from 2021 to 2023, an honor given to fewer than 2.5% of Texas attorneys. He has also organized events such as the Silkies Hike, a nationwide initiative supporting veterans' mental health. Mark makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Jonathan Fombonne is the Deputy County Attorney and First Assistant County Attorney in Harris County, Texas. After graduating from Swarthmore College and the University of Michigan Law School, he started his career with a clerkship for Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, Judge Solomon Oliver, Jr. Prior to his current appointment, he practiced law at law firms in Texas and New York, maintained a significant pro bono practice, and was a partner at Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Jonathan, his wife Lauren, and their children live in Houston, Texas.
Cesar Espinosa is a prominent immigrant rights advocate and community organizer based in Houston, Texas. Born in Mexico, he immigrated to the United States at the age of six and went on to earn a degree in Political Science from the University of Houston. In 2007, he co-founded Familias Inmigrantes y Estudiantes en la Lucha (FIEL), the largest immigrant-led civil rights organization in Texas. Espinosa has received recognition locally and nationally for his activism, having been honored with an activism award by the City of Houston, presented with his own day by the mayor in 2008, and invited to the 2018 State of the Union address as a guest of Representative Sheila Jackson Lee. Cesar, his wife, and their children make their home in Houston, Texas.
Terry Lord is a retired U.S. Attorney and seasoned criminal justice reform advocate. A Vietnam War veteran, he earned his undergraduate degree in History from Southern Methodist University and his law degree from the University of Texas School of Law. As a commissioned Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, he served three years in the Infantry Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He served as the Resident Legal Advisor in Romania, was the Chief of the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, and served as a federal prosecutor in Chicago, Illinois; Los Angeles, California; and Las Vegas, Nevada. Terry lives in Houston, Texas.
Mike Greenhaus, a writer, blogger, and self-described "live music geek", is the Editor-in-Chief of Relix Magazine and Co-Founder of Relix Media Group. He also hosts the bi-monthly Friday Night Jam, a speaking series that takes place at New York's LPR and Rockwood Music Hall. A former college radio DJ, he has spoken on panels at the South by Southwest and CMJ music conferences, written for outlets including Spin and American Songwriter, and serves on the Young Patrons Board for City Parks Foundation. A native New Yorker and Skidmore College graduate, Mike makes his home in New York City with his wife and their two sons.
Theresa Jackson, originally from Fort Worth, Texas, moved to Houston, Texas in 1974. After working at Jesse Jackson & Associates, she went on to earn a college degree. She is a trailblazing educator and the first African American woman to open two charter schools in Houston, Texas. The schools, through her leadership, are committed to providing a high quality education and promoting community empowerment for underserved students. Theresa calls Houston, Texas home to this day.
Jamil Rashad, also known as Boulevards, is from Raleigh, North Carolina. He earned a scholarship to the University of North Carolina Charlotte for his performance in track & field, took a step back after graduation to explore his musical calling, and went on to launch his first clothing brand, Above Cruelty, during his time at Grambling State University. One of his numerous albums, Electric Cowboy, marks a significant milestone as his first project created entirely sober, and he now owns and operates Westdale Vintage in Fayatteville, North Carolina in addition to being an avid runner and active artist. Jamil calls Raleigh, North Carolina home.
Hyphen Thazhath is originally from India and moved to the United States in 2013. He is a One-Man Band extraordinaire and Multi-Instrumentalist who covers a range of genres including Rock & Roll, R&B, Pop, Jazz, Country, and Indian to name a few. Since 2014, Hyphen has called Houston, Texas home.
Andrew Dansby is a writer who has worked at Rolling Stone, American Songwriter, Texas Music, and Playboy to name a few. He began writing for the Houston Chronicle in 2004 and was the Entertainment Editor until his retirement in January 2025 (This career move left legions of heartbroken readers including one podcast host!). Following his departure, he released a brilliant six part series on the life of Velvet Underground guitarist Sterling Morrison. Andrew presently lives in Houston, Texas.
Jason "Flash Gordon Parks" Woods, originally from South Houston, Texas, is an ethnomusicologist who was trained in photography during high school by artist and educator Ray Carrington. He went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree in Photography at Sam Houston State University in 2001. He published The Beautiful Side of Ugly in conjunction with Eric Blaylock, released the documentary This Thing We Do, directed an homage to Archie Bell, curates vinyl shop Mo' Better Brews, and performs as a DJ. Jason still calls Houston, Texas home.
Paige Lewis is a singer/songwriter and copywriter from Katy, Texas. She has worked with numerous music labels, performed all over the United States both solo and with other noteworthy artists, was awarded an ASCAP, and even has two songs featured on the soundtrack for the film Matchstick Men. After living in Nashville, Tennessee; Los Angeles, California; and Austin, Texas, Paige now calls Houston, Texas home.
Michael Wayne Hall is a self-taught artist who uses painting, murals, and woodworking as meditative practices. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, he spent 13 years in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania before moving to Texas in 2012. After graduating from the University of the Arts with a focus on Film, he honed his screenprinting skills at Space 1026 in Philly. His work has been showcased in New York City, Seattle, Austin, and many other cities nationwide. He was also one half of the experimental music duo and printing project Ospreys that toured extensively from 2005-2009. Michael calls Houston, Texas home.
Kevin D'Andrea is a French chef and the owner and Executive Chef of Foliepop's, a French bakery in Austin, Texas. Originally from Oloron-Sainte-Marie, France, he trained under the guidance of some of the world's most renowned chefs and has worked in some of the most prestigious restaurants internationally. He has appeared on the TV show Top Chef: Wisconsin and was a finalist on Top Chef France. Kevin makes his home in Austin, Texas.
THNX is saddened over the loss of Connie Williams, a dear friend of the pod, on December 30, 2025. He was an attorney for five decades, first at the Harris County District Attorney's Office then in the criminal defense arena. He grew up in Brenham, Texas, served his country as a tank commander earning both a silver and bronze star, and recieved his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Houston. He is survived by his wife and their sons.
Iliana de la Vega is a Chef-Owner of El Naranjo in Oaxaca, Mexico and Austin, Texas, as well as an educator, culinary consultant, and expert in Mexican gastronomy. Born in Mexico City, Mexico, she has dedicated her life to the study and dissemination of the country's foodways. She is a semifinalist and winner of numerous James Beard Awards, served as the Mexican/Latin Cuisines Specialist for The Culinary Institute of America, was granted the Ohtli Award by the Mexican government, was named Hispanic Female Entrepreneur of the Year in 2014, and currently serves as a consultant for Stanford University. Iliana makes her home in Austin, Texas.
Jasmine Hearn is an interdisciplinary artist, director, award winning performer, choreographer, organizer, doula, and teacher. They earned a B.A. from Point Park University, has performed in many cities nationwide, and received numerous awards, fellowships, grants, and residencies. Jasmine lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas.
Today - November 5, 2024 - is the last day to make your voice heard at the ballot box for this year's election. Go to usa.gov to find the polling location nearest you to cast your vote.
Caleb Hans Polashek leads a varied music career as a solo, orchestral, chamber, and collaborative performer, composer, and recording artist. He began studying violin at an early age, eventually earning a post graduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin's highly esteemed studio of Brian Lewis at The Butler School of Music. He has performed domestically and internationally, joined the violin section of the Austin Symphony Orchestra in 2012, and released an original album entitled Illumination in 2023. Caleb makes his home in Austin, Texas.
Jamonica Phoenix is a former board member of Houston Blues Society and helped organize Houston Blues Museum and Blues for Food. Aside from her involvement with the Houston Blues Scene, she worked for a mediator prior to retirement, was on the board of local Houston radio station KPFT 90.1 FM, and is an avid animal lover. Jamonica makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Amy Malkan is a Visual Artist, Muralist, Author, and Public Speaker. As an International Artist and High Performance Facilitator, she creates, designs, and builds creative spaces all over the world. Her educational background in psychology and 15 years of experience in corporate sales coupled with her passion for and development of her artistic talents contributed to the success of her business, The Malkan Group, LLC. Amy lives in Houston, Texas.
John Bishop is originally from Houston, Texas and has spent most of his adult life traveling the world. After exchange experiences in Mexico and Spain, he graduated from the University of St. Thomas, did graduate work at the University of Houston, and earned a Master's Degree from the University of Texas. His artistic interests followed him throughout his career as a librarian in Texas, New Mexico, California, Romania, The Emirates, New Zealand, and Russia. He returned to Texas in 2015 to care for his parents and work full time on his creative business in fine art at Silver Street Studios as well as work as the Executive Director of Aripa Arte, a nonprofit organization. John now makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Xavier Amin Dphrepaulezz, known as Fantastic Negrito, is an American singer-songwriter originally from Massachusetts. A self-taught musician, he was first signed in 1993 and has released seven albums since, earning three consecutive Grammy Awards as well as NPR's first ever Tiny Desk Contest. Between records, he was in a near-fatal car crash, temporarily retired from music, set up an illegal nightclub in Los Angeles, and started his family. Fantastic Negrito now calls Houston, Texas home.
Mona Jhaveri is a biotech scientist and entrepreneur notable for her approaches to cancer research, detection, and funding. She earned her Bachelor's Degree from SUNY Binghamton and her Doctorate in Biochemistry from the Bowman Gray School of Medicine of Wake Forest University, trained as a post-doctoral fellow at the National Cancer Institute, was granted the SPORE Fellowship Award for Breast Cancer Research at the Lombardi Cancer Center of Georgetown University, and received the Cartier Women's Initiative Award. She is the Founder of Foligo Therapeutics Inc., the Founder and Executive Director of Sound Affects, and the Founder, Executive Director, and Chairman of the Board at Music Beats Cancer. Mona makes her home in Ridgefield, Connecticut.
Christopher Seymore is originally from the hills of upstate South Carolina. He is a hillbilly poet, the Founder of the popular Horni Tonk Tuesday residency, and a rising star within the independent Texas Country scene. Christopher lives in Houston, Texas.
Connie Williams has been an attorney for five decades. Since spending the first four years of his career being employed by the Harris County District Attorney's Office, he has been a criminal defense attorney. Prior, he grew up in Brenham, Texas, served his country as a tank commander earning both a silver and bronze star, and recieved his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Houston. Connie, his wife, and their sons make Houston, Texas their home.
Boyd Harrell is the Founder, CEO, and President of COOL Ministries, a Christ-based organization that has been predominantly serving incarcerated men and women for over 25 years. Prior to founding the ministry, Boyd was destined to spend the rest of his life in prison, using a number of drugs and having committed serious crimes. He turned his life to Christ at the suggestion of his mother during a visit to him in jail and dedicated his life to staying sober and helping others from that point forward. Boyd and his wife, who also works with the ministry, live in Houston, Texas.
Vanessa Lipscomb, originally from Alief, Texas, is a Co-Founder of The Wow Project. Founded in 2012 by Vanessa and her husband, The Wow Project focuses on quality food access and wellness and is known as Houston's healthiest food pantry. Together with volunteers, Trader Joe's, and Plant It forward, they have opened one community fridge and have hopes to continue their work. Vanessa and her husband live in Houston, Texas.
Marcus Spoagnoletti is a personal injury attorney who earned degrees from the University of Southern California and the University of Miami School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in Florida and Texas, founded Spagnoletti Law Firm, and runs Concetto Limone, an Italian shoe brand co-owned with Tony Buzbee that launched its first line of products and made its Texas debut in 2021. Marcus makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Chrissie Dickerson Ramirez owns and operates Casa Ramirez Folkart Gallery in Houston, Texas. Originally from Dallas, Texas, she graduated from Southwestern University and went on to marry her late husband Macario in 1983. The two opened Casa Ramirez in 1985 to promote and celebrate Latino culture by exhibiting and selling art and books, teaching a variety of classes, hosting events like poetry readings, and observing annual holidays with traditional festivities and educational experiences. Chrissie lives in Houston, Texas.
Steve Hyde is a photographer, videographer, and Co-Founder, alongside his wife, of Dizzy Media. The two met and married in Africa, and after embarking on a global photography adventure began working with drones in 2012. Using drone photography and videography, they showcase local small businesses, artists, and events, work with customers such as KHOU 11 in Houston, Texas and the University of Houston, and have won numerous awards and contests. Steve, his wife, and their son make their home in Houston.
Janna Garza is an artist, photographer, writer, and storyteller who focuses on self portraits and character studies. In her self portrait series, her characters bend toward humor, tragedy, and a mix of the two. Janna is a Texas native and still calls the state home.
Mary Hammer is a talented singer and songwriter with over 10 years of experience performing throughout the state of Texas. She performs both on her own and as part of her band, Mermaid Junction, which includes her sister and other local artists. Mary makes her home in her native city of Houston, Texas.
Chloe Gose, the violinist, vocalist, and guitarist of The Wildwoods, is from the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska. She started playing violin at age nine and founded the folk/Americana trio The Wildwoods with her husband and brother in 2012. They have released numerous albums and were crowned "Best Band" by the Lincoln Journal Star's Lincoln Choice Awards in 2022. Chloe makes her home in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Antonio Salazar-Hobson is the 11th of 14 children who lived as migrant farmworkers in Phoenix, Arizona. At age four, he was kidnapped by his neighbors, sexually abused, and eventually trafficked at a California holiday guest ranch. He connected with Cesar Chavez as a teen and went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree from the University of California Santa Cruz, a Master's Degree from Stanford as a Danforth Fellow, and a Juris Doctor from the University of California Davis Law School; he has been working as a union labor and national tribal attorney since. In addition, he has represented the Communications Workers of America as the District 9 counsel, was the Controller for the California Democratic Party for eight years, and authored his memoir, Antonio, We Know You. Antonio makes his home in San Francisco, California.
Devona Stimpson, a Virginia Beach native, is an artist, designer, branding expert, entrepreneur, speaker, and Amazon best-selling author. Her background consists of 10+ years of graphic design experience, the creation of successful online brand Art By Devona, sales of original paintings and prints, and the building of a 6-figure branding and creative boutique. Devona lives in Houston, Texas.
Johnny Falstaff, born in Alice, Texas and raised in Alvin, Texas, became interested in music from a young age and has toured domestically and internationally over the last decades. He served in the U.S. Army in the 1980s and moved to Nashville, Tennessee in 1991. After moving back to Texas, he began releasing his own albums in 2000. He began touring in Germany in 2006 and stayed in the country for several years. In 2021, he won his battle against cancer and is back to creating music and performing live. Johnny makes his home in Alvin, Texas.
Sonny Boy Terry, born Terry Jerome in Van Wert, Ohio, is a bluesman recognized as one of Texas' - if not one of America's - top harmonica players. After learning the basics, he moved to Houston, Texas in 1981 and began building his experience with the likes of Uncle John Turner, TC and the Cannonballs, and more, and later played in bands and toured domestically and internationally with Jerry Lightfoot, Kinney Abair, and Joe Guitar Hughes. In the 1990s, he founded the 501(C)3 non-profit Houston Blues Society and started building his own band. Now the biggest selling artist on Doc Blue Records, he has been featured on countless songs and has released multiple albums of his own. Terry makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Lisa McNair, from Birmigham, Alabama, is a public speaker who shares the story of her family. She is the oldest living sister of Denise McNair, one of the four girls killed in the infamous 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church. Also an activist, photographer, and writer, she authored Dear Denise: Letters to the Sister I Never Knew. In addition to her own story, she speaks on the topic of racial reconciliation and leads antiracism workshops. Lisa makes her home in Brimingham.
Antonie Evans is an artist, curator, and designer presently working at the Blaffer Art Museum as the Digital Design and Resources Lead. He has participated in the Space Taking Artist Residency; worked as a designer, web developer, social media manager, and graphic designer; and served as docent at both the Brooklyn Museum and the Moody Center at Rice University. Outside of design work, he maintains an interdisciplinary artist practice along with the pursuit of a curatorial mission to help artists build sustainable futures. Tony makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Sean Cummings, the Vice Mayor of The Village, Oklahoma, journeyed from the heart of Kansas City, Missouri to the corridors of local governance as a dedicated advocate for public schools and a proud social activist. Despite the challenges life has thrown his way, including the loss of his beloved spouse, he remains steadfast in his mission to serve others. When he is not navigating the intricacies of city politics, he can be found managing his acclaimed restaurants, Vito's Ristorante and Sean Cummings Irish Pub, or reflecting on his diverse career in comedy, film, television, and radio. Sean makes his home in Oklahoma.
Demola, known as "Demola the Violinist", is a musician, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, and award-winning self taught multi genre violinist. He was born in Lagos, Nigeria and moved to the United States to pursue his music career. With experience performing the National Anthem at Minute Maid Stadium and the Toyota Center, appearing on local, national, and international television, and touring both as a soloist and as the official violinist for legendary R&B groups, he has built a dedicated worldwide audience. Demola calls Houston, Texas home.
J. Isaiah Evans is a native of Dallas, Texas and is best known as the Founder and front man of roots rock & roll band The 40 Acre Mule. They began touring following their critical and commercial success and gained a devout international following. Now, J. Isaiah Evans & The Boss Tweed have forged a new path, putting keys front and center of Americana Rock and creating what he calls "Garageicana Rock-N-Roll". Isaiah makes his home in Dallas.
Monte Warden is an American musician and songwriter native to Texas. Since his early teens, he has played as a solo artist and as a member of bands including Whoa! Trigger! and The Wagoneers, performed at SXSW, and won multiple awards and honors, in addition to being a rare two-time member of The Texas Music Hall of Fame, both as a solo artist and as a member of The Wagoneers. His newest project, Monte Warden and The Dangerous Few, consists of original material in the Jazz / Traditional Pop Genre. Monte makes his home in Austin, Texas.
Revered Dr. Russell J. Levenson has been the Rector of St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston, Texas since 2007. Prior, he earned a Bachelor of Arts from Birmingham-Southern College, a Master's of Divinity at Virginia Theological Seminary, a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation at Beeson Divinity School, and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Nashotah House Theological Seminary. He has received uncountable accolades, honors, appointments, and awards and has contributed to innumerable boards, charitable organizatios, books, articles & journals, television programs, and churches around the country, even officiating and preaching at the funerals for the late First Lady Barbara Pierce Bush and 41st President George H.W. Bush. He has authored multiple books including Witness to Dignity: The Life and Faith of George H.W. and Barbara Bush (2022) and In God's Grip: What Golf Can Teach Us About the Gospel (2023). At the time of this interview, Russ and his wife have three adult children and two gradchildren and call Houston, Texas home.
Marie Constantin is an American still photographer from Hartford, Connecticut. She graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana with degrees in General Studies and Journalism. Her photography work, much of which was spent with Catholic nuns working with the poor, has taken her all over the world, and she became known internationally when her photo of Mother Teresa of Calcutta was selected to hang in St. Peter's Square for Mother Teresa's Beatification Ceremony in 2003. She also works as an activist advocating for less flooding and less litter through stormwater management utilities, even being honored as a 2023 Capital Region 500 Most Powerful and Influential Business & Community Leader. A Co-Founder of the Louisiana Stormwater Coalition, she also became an LSU Manship Hall of Fame Inductee, was honored as an Influential Woman in Business, and was awarded the Pete Goldsby Lifetime Achievement Award. Marie makes her home in Louisiana.
Dan Simons was born and raised in Southeast Texas and became the first person in his family to graduate from high school. He then graduated from Sam Houston State University at the top of his class, went on to attend Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and earned his Master's Degree in Tax Law from the University of Houston. He has handled many cases as Assistant District Attorney and as Misdeeanor Chief in Criminal Court No. 14. Dan now has his own practice, Dan Simons Law Firm, in Houston, Texas.
Curtis Wilkie, originally from Mississippi, is a retired Journalism professor at The University of Mississippi, a historian of the American South, and an author. After graduating from The University of Mississippi himself in 1963, he worked as a reporter and editor for the Clarksdale Press Register, received a Congressional Fellowship from the American Political Science Association to work as an aide to Sen. Walter Mondale in Washington, DC, and was a reporter at The News Journal and The Boston Globe. The Fellowship of Southern Writers presented him with the Special Award for Excellence in Non-Fiction Writing in 2005, and a scholarship was endowed for Ole Miss Journalism students in Wilkie's name in 2013. Curtis makes his home in Mississippi.
Jonathan Paul Jackson is an African American Visual Artist from Houston, Texas. He works in all mediums of art, including painting, sculpture, and illustration, and his work has been featured in various solo exhibitions, group exhibitions, and public collections throughout the state of Texas. Jonathan calls Houston, Texas home.
Sean Teare was born and raised in Houston, Texas and grew up with activist parents who instilled in him a powerful sense of empathy and justice. After attending St. Thomas High School, he graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor's Degree in American History and earned his JD from the Law Center. He served as a prosecutor with the Harris County District Attorney's Office for 11 years, 6 of which as the Division Supervisor of the Office's Vehicular Crimes Division. Sean still makes his home in Houston and is running for Harris County District Attorney in 2024.
THNX: A Feelgood Podcast encourages everyone to make their voices heard by casting a vote in the primary election in the U.S.
Dr. Lindsay Gary (PhD, MFA, MA, MPA) is a professor-scholar, conceptual diasporArtist, Afrocentric entrepreneur, and cultural curator whose mission is to educate, connect, and empower the African Diaspora. She is an adjunct professor of African American Studies at the University of Houston and of History at Houston Community College, in addition to being the Executive Director of The Re-Education Project, the Artistic and Executive Director of Dance Afrikana LLC, and the CEO of Isegun Enterprises LLC. She authored "The New Red Book: A Guide to 50 of Houston's Black Historical and Cultural Sites" and created and directed the documentary film "Who Yo' People?". Lindsay makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Edgar Medina, originally from Mexico, moved to the United States at age 17 and is now a local artist in Houston, Texas. After a short stint as a Dental Assistant, Edgar began taking art classes and honing the painting skills he began building as a child. His paintings are considered Contemporary Abstracts; they are expressive, full of color, bold, and inspirational. He has brought his creations to cities around the world and has been featured in numerous exhibitions domestically and internationally. Edgar makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Carla C. Bisong founded Bisong Art Gallery in the Historic Warehouse District of Downtown Houston in 2013. After 13 years in the investment banking industry, Carla retired to pursue her dream of being a gallerist fulltime and make an impact in the art community. She and her team of art consultants help individuals and corporations discover meaningful artwork, and each piece has its own story. Carla is also the President of the Houston Art Gallery Association (HAGA) and makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Ryan Nicodemus is a New York Times best selling author, Emmy-nominated Netflix star, international speaker, and small group mentor. After moving around as a child, his family settled in Ohio when he was eight. He handled sales and marketing for a telecommunications company with his childhood friend Joshua Fields Mullburn prior to co-founding The Minimalists. Their website, books, podcast, and documentaries led them to speak at a multitude of venues, tour internationally, and get recognized in innumerable publications. Ryan makes his home in Missoula, Montana.
John T. Edge is a writer, commentator, television personality, and, since 1999, the director of the Southern Foodways Alliance. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia, a Master's Degree in Southern Studies from the University of Mississippi, and an MFA in Creative Non-Fiction from Groucher College. He has authored several books about food and received a writing award from the James Beard Foundation. He hosts the SEC Network/ESPN show True South. John T. and his wife Blair, along with their son, live in Oxford, Mississipi.
Benjamin Berg is the founder and CEO of Berg Hospitality Group. Presently, the group owns and operates twelve restaurants, each based on a unique concept, with plans to open more. After growing up in New York City, he graduated from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana and earned a graduate degree from Cornell University in Hospitality. He started in a premier hotel as a bellman and worked his way up by learning and mastering every facet of hospitality. Before starting his own restaurants, he ran establishments in New York City, Las Vegas, and Mexico City. Benjamin makes Houston, Texas his home.
Judge Franklin Bynum is an attorney who earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas and completed his studies at the University of Southern California Law School. Upon returning to Texas, he worked as a public defender and was elected to a Harris County Court at Law bench; he was the first democratic socialist to hold such a position in Texas. He has since returned to private practice concentrating on criminal defense. Franklin makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Roger Street Friedman is an American musician presently receiving critical acclaim from his latest album Love Hope Trust and the single The Ghosts of Sugarland. He picked up guitar at an early age and began working in the music business but took a twenty-five year sabbatical before he began seriously recording and touring again. He has released four albums as well as numerous singles and EPs. Roger makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Judge Craig Mitchell earned his undergraduate degree from UCLA, taught school for 9 years, then attended Southwestern University of Law, completing his studies in 1991. In 1994, he joined the Los Angeles District Attorneys Office as a prosecutor, where he founded the Domestic Violence Prosecution Unit. He also founded the Midnight Mission Running Club in 2001 and the Skid Row Running Club in 2012. Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed him to be a judge in 2005. Presently, he is running for District Attorney of Los Angeles. Craig is married and has three adult children.
Erin Epley earned her undergraduate degree from Texas A&M and her law degree from the University of Houston. She has been a State and Federal Prosecutor as well as a Criminal Defense Attorney. Most recently, she worked as a Special Investigator for the Texas House of Representatives on the investigation and subsequent impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Erin makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Michael Solar is a trial attorney residing in Houston, Texas and has practiced all over the United States. Prior, Michael served in the United States Army, where he was in the Presidential Guard. He later received his undergraduate and law school degree from the University of Houston, has served three terms as the Port Commissioner, been on various boards, and received numerous honors. At the time of this interview, Michael and his wife Patricia have four adult children and ten grandchildren.
Judge Mike Engelhart spent his formative years in New Jersey and earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his law degree from the University of Houston. He earned board certification as a trial lawyer, was elected to a District court bench in 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020, and served as an Administrative Judge for two terms. Mike and his wife Eva have two sons and live in Houston, Texas.
Devon Anderson is best known for her time as the District Attorney of Harris County, Houston, Texas. Prior, she was the Judge of the 177th Judicial District Court and an Assistant District Attorney. After growing up in Waco, Texas, she earned her undergraduate degree and Juris Doctorate from the University of Texas. She is presently the Director of Justice Forward, an agency that assists participants in the specialty courts of Harris and Fort Bend Counties. Devon makes her home in Houston, Texas and is the mother of two children.
Judge Chris Morton currently presides over the 230th Judicial District Court in Harris County, Texas. Chris grew up in North Carolina and graduated from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte with a degree in International Business. While attending college, he was also serving in the National Guard. After participating in the work force, Chris moved to Houston and started attending law school at the University of Houston. Upon graduation, he worked at the Harris County District Attorneys’ Office, where he practiced for six years, then worked as a defense attorney for five years before running and being elected Judge. Chris and his family live in Houston, Texas.
Paul Beebe grew up in Houston, Texas and spent his extra time away from schoolwork mastering the guitar. He attended Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana and earned a BA in music. Since high school, he has played bass and drums in addition to the guitar for all types of music with a number of bands, including the Beetle, Thunderado, The Light Rock Express, Disco Expressions, The El Orbits, Grand Old Grizzly, and The Allen Oldies Band - fronted by friend of THNX Allen Hill. In 2010, he released his solo record The Grand Prize, and he runs his own recording studio, Beebe Gunn Studios. Paul, his wife, and their three children live in Houston, Texas.
John Lomax III harkens from the first family of American Music Folklore. The Lomaxes have been chronicling and preserving American Folk music for over 100 years and five generations. John was born in New York then moved to Houston, Texas; he studied history at the University of Texas and has worked as a journalist, publicist, author, music distributor, and has managed musicians including Kasey Chambers, Steve Earle, and the late Townes Van Zandt. He has donated archival material that has been exhibited in museums and used in documentaries and is the recipient of the Jo Walker Meador International Award awarded by the Country Music Association. John Lomax lll and his wife currently make their home in Nashville, Tennessee.
Ruth Rios is a reading specialist who works with students who are dyslexic. Following obtaining her teaching degree, Ruth earned her Master's Degree in Administration and Leadership from the University of Houston. She has been employed with the Katy Independent School District for the last 12 years. Ruth makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Gilbert Garcia was born in Corpus Christi, Texas and is one of five children. He earned a BA in Economics from Yale University in 1985, then joined Salomon Brothers, where he became a Vice President, in New York. In 1990, he moved to Houston, Texas to join Cisneros Asset Management Company, where he worked his way up to President, then in 2002 joined Garcia Hamilton and Associates, where he is a Managing Partner. He has been a contributor to CBNC and served on the Treasury Advisory Committee among others. From 2010-2016, he served as the Chairman of the Metropolitan Transit Authority. He is presently running to be the Mayor of Houston, Texas. Gilbert, his wife, and their four children live in Houston, Texas.
Judge Katherine Thomas, a native Houstonian, became the youngest person elected to serve on a District Court in Texas when she won her election for the 184th District Court. She was also the first person of color to preside over that bench. She earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science from Spellman College and her law degree from Howard University. Judge Thomas was an intern for the Obama administration and the Harris County District Attorneys office, then served as a District Attorney in Harris County following her graduation from law school. Katherine still calls Houston, Texas home.
Pam Chapman Markle is a record-holding ultramarathoner. The first competitive race in which she ran was 100 miles. Among her many accomplishments, which are too extensive to name, she has completed the Badwater 135 mile race, widely considered the world's most difficult footrace, six times; she ran it once with a concussion, and, during her most recent run, with a prosthetic hip. The records she holds are numerous and were earned in regards to age, gender, time, and/or distance. As of the time of this interview, Pam is 67 years old and gearing up for her next race, which is 250 miles. In addition, she works as a nurse anesthesiologist and is a cancer survivor. Pam and her husband Spencer live in San Leon, Texas and are proud parents and grandparents.
Rose Garcia is a USA Today bestselling fantasy author whose stories feature Hispanic characters drawing from her cultural experience. She was born in Corpus Christi, Texas and graduated from St. Mary’s University and South Texas College of Law. She practiced law until she decided to devote her efforts to full time mothering and, with the support of her husband Wade, became a full time author. To date, she has completed ten books. Rose and Wade make their home in Houston, Texas.
Marlo Blue is presently the Program Coordinator at KPFT FM in Houston, Texas and works at the Guy Schwartz Foundation for Houston Original Music, which is responsible for South By Due East, a showcase of Houston Music. She's been at KPFT in various capacities for 16 years, has worked in all aspects of the music business including touring and publishing, and has even acted as voice talent. A native Houstonian, she attended college in Houston and later the American University in London and has since lived in countless international cities. Marlo and musician/archivist Guy Schwartz (THNX: A Feelgood Podcast episode 10) live in Houston with their cats.
Isaac "Ike" Blackmore grew up in Austin, Texas. After visiting Texas A&M University and falling in love with the Corps, he decided to enroll and enlisted with the National Guard. Upon graduation, he was commissioned in the Army as an infantry officer. Following his initial assignment in Alaska, he became an officer in the 75th Ranger Regiment and led a Ranger platoon through two deployments in Afghanistan. The initial recipient of the Warrior National Foundation Scholarship dedicated to special operations veterans, he enrolled at the University of Texas in a dual-degree MBA/JD program. Ike currently lives in Austin, Texas.
Allison Mathis is presently running for judge in the 338th District Court in Harris County, Houston, Texas. She has been a practicing attorney for over ten years and has dedicated the majority of her practice to indigent defense. She has also given back to the legal community by teaching at The Center For Advanced Legal Studies and South Texas College of Law. She earned her undergraduate degree in English and Master's in Literature, both from the University of Houston, and attended South Texas College of Law. Allison and her family reside in Houston.
TC Thompkins, born in Richmond, Virginia, is an artist and music development specialist, music consultant, and author. After serving in the Vietnam War, he attended Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, got married, had a child, and has lived in Memphis, Tennessee; Chicago, Illinois; and NYC. He's worked at Stax Records, Capital Records, CBS Records/Sony Music, Epic Records, and GR Production (where he discovered Teddy Riley and his "New Jack Swing") and has worked with artists such as Michael Jackson and Luther Vandross in his over 40 years in the music industry. Thompkins Marketing came about in 1991 and offers a range of services for music, video, and movies. His book, When Radio Was King, details his journey identifying, developing, and launching legendary artists to the top of the charts. TC and his family make Sugar Land, Texas their home.
TC Thompkins, born in Richmond, Virginia, is an artist and music development specialist, music consultant, and author. After serving in the Vietnam War, he attended Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, got married, had a child, and has lived in Memphis, Tennessee; Chicago, Illinois; and NYC. He's worked at Stax Records, Capital Records, CBS Records/Sony Music, Epic Records, and GR Production (where he discovered Teddy Riley and his "New Jack Swing") and has worked with artists such as Michael Jackson and Luther Vandross in his over 40 years in the music industry. Thompkins Marketing came about in 1991 and offers a range of services for music, video, and movies. His book, When Radio Was King, details his journey identifying, developing, and launching legendary artists to the top of the charts. TC and his family make Sugar Land, Texas their home.
Eric Devlin grew up in Houston, Texas, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Southern Methodist University, and attended South Texas College of Law. Despite early aspirations of becoming a personal injury attorney, Eric became a prosecutor, and, in his twelve years doing so, he developed an expertise in digital forensics. In 2013, he opened the Lone Star Forensic Group as well as became a legal consultant on the television shows Cold Justice and Cold Justice: Sex Crimes. He also teaches digital forensics to law enforcement and attorneys and is one of the founders of the Houston Metro Crimes Against Children Taskforce, one of the most productive in the nation. Eric and his family make Houston, Texas their home.
Annie Strever was born in Russia, graduated from Novosibirsk University, and later attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology. With a past in marketing and public relations, she now works as a fine art photographer and art director, specializing in weddings. She acts on the side, is a certified Life Coach, and even has her own podcast, Real People. Annie and her two sons live in Austin, Texas.
Lauren Piland is a Louisiana native who studied advertising at Louisiana State University. She worked for an agency in Baton Rouge, Louisiana for seven years, then became an elementary school teacher. After four years of teaching second grade, she took time off to stay home with her second child. It was during this period of time that she merged her love for teaching children and her experience in marketing to create a series of children books based around the character Blooming Rose, hoping to foster discussion around issues elemenary school children are facing. Lauren and her family live in Houston, Texas.
Julia Nicholson has survived a major automobile accident that caused catastrophic injuries as well as an abusive marriage that left her unemployed with two small children. With no marketable job skills or education at that point in life, she managed to work, complete her degree, and become a CEO of a $450 Million company. After, she founded an independent consulting business and is now an author and speaker, with one speech even being featured on TEDx. Her book, Move Forward Stronger: A Dynamic Framework to Process Change, Loss and Grief, helps individuals deal with and overcome the worst events in their lives. The proceeds from her book and speeches are donated to charity. Julia is the mother of two small daughters and lives in California.
Mark Young is a British Expat painter presently based in Los Angeles, California. Mark emigrated to the United States and embraced art, particularly painting. He studied photography at the Kent Institute of Art and Design and later studied teaching photography at University of Greenwhich. As a photographer, he captured news fit to print and musicians worth a listen. His work can be found at www.splattermarks.com. Mark is married and is the stepfather to three adult children.
Mark Young is a British Expat painter presently based in Los Angeles, California. Mark emigrated to the United States and embraced art, particularly painting. He studied photography at the Kent Institute of Art and Design and later studied teaching photography at University of Greenwhich. As a photographer, he captured news fit to print and musicians worth a listen. His work can be found at www.splattermarks.com. Mark is married and is the stepfather to three adult children.
Christine Weiss earned a BA from Florida State University in Food and Nutrition, and her husband Eric Weiss, a board-certified plastic surgeon, earned a BS in Chemistry from Davidson College and an MD from Duke University. They are co-authors of the book Educating Marston: A Mother and Son's Journey Through Autism, which focuses on raising their autistic son, who was born in 1995, and has been hailed as an outstanding resource for people with children on the spectrum. The Weisses are also advocates for stem cell replacement therapy and have chronicled the profound and positive changes it has made with Marston. Christine and Eric have two children and make their home in Florida.
THNX: A Feelgood Podcast is re-releasing our interview with friend of the pod John Nova Lomax, who passed too soon on Sunday, May 21, 2023.
John Nova Lomax was a journalist in Houston, Texas for 20 years. After graduating from Belmont in Nashville, Tennessee, he had a variety of jobs including oyster shucker, landscape gardener, British Telecom clerk, and field hand in Israel. John settled down in journalism at the Houston Press, where he reviewed and introduced all types of music to his readers as a Music Editor and Staff Writer for nearly 12 years. After working briefly at Swamplot.com, he was a Senior Editor at Texas Monthly for almost 4 years. John is survived by his children.
Jennifer Guajardo is a multidisciplinary artist whose art reflects an appreciation and love for wildlife. She has studied at Houston Community College, the University of Houston, and American International University and taught art to elementary school aged children for twelve years prior to becoming a full time working artist. Jennifer has exhibited her art and has received many awards. She and her family live in Houston, Texas.
Aaron Lee Burros spent the majority of his formative years in Houston, Texas. In 2009, he graduated from The College of Biblical Studies. At nearly 400 lbs and unhappy with his health and appearance, he turned to running and lost almost 100 lbs his first year and 75 lbs over the next 4 years. While preparing to run a 50-mile ultramarathon in 2015, Aaron was the victim of a workplace shooting. He returned to running in 2019 following grueling physical and emotional therapy and has completed several marathons and raised tens of thousands of dollars for charities since. Aaron makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Aaron Lee Burros spent the majority of his formative years in Houston, Texas. In 2009, he graduated from The College of Biblical Studies. At nearly 400 lbs and unhappy with his health and appearance, he turned to running and lost almost 100 lbs his first year and 75 lbs over the next 4 years. While preparing to run a 50-mile ultramarathon in 2015, Aaron was the victim of a workplace shooting. He returned to running in 2019 following grueling physical and emotional therapy and has completed several marathons and raised tens of thousands of dollars for charities since. Aaron makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Toni Okamoto has been a vegan for almost two decades. Her journey was influenced by a track coach highlighting the relationship between food and athletic performance as well as her love for animals. Over a decade ago, she founded Plant Based on a Budget, a website that shatters the misconception that eating plant based is expensive and time consuming. She is the author of four vegan cookbooks and the cohost of two podcasts, including the Plant Powered People Podcast. Toni and her husband Paul make their home in Sacramento, California.
Brock Murphy was born in Plano, Texas and grew up in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. As a teenager, he raised and bred Longhorn cattle and held national office in the American Quarter Horse Association. He attended Texas A&M University and, upon graduation, interned at the White House in the department of Management and Budget. Following that, he worked for Space X and a French Aerospace Company, Interstellar Lab. Currently, he is working at Parent Protech, a company he cofounded to help schools and parents navigate technology to keep children safe. Brock presently makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Davina Ugochuckwu is an international attorney who represents victims of human trafficking and sexual abuse. She earned two undergraduate degrees from the University of Texas, her law degree from the University of Michigan, and an LLM in Human Rights Law from the American University Washington College of Law. She was an intern for the RFK Center for Justice and Human Rights and has worked with the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal. In 2018, she founded MiCreate to support victims of human trafficking. Davina makes her home in Houston, Texas.
Jeff Ragsdale grew up in Houston, Texas and studied music and vocal performance at Houston Baptist University. He performs as a tenor soloist and has sung with the Bach Choir, The Church of St. John Divine, Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church, St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, the Congregation Emanu-El Choir, and the Houston Chamber Choir. He makes his home in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Bob Sanborn is the President and CEO of Children at Risk, a non-profit organization founded in 1989 that is dedicated to addressing public policies that affect children's issues, including education, health & nutrition, immigration, and human trafficking. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Florida State University and a doctorate degree from Columbia University. In addition to expanding Children at Risk's influence, he is the Executive Editor of two academic journals and the host of Growing Up in America, a radio program and podcast. Bob and his wife call Houston, Texas home.
This week is Spring Break, and THNX: A Feelgood Podcast is celebrating! Please enjoy Sarah Lee Guthrie's song Honey and The Dew and stay tuned for a new episode next week! Enjoy responsibly.
Pam Johnson is a breath coach, classical yoga educator, Artistic Director of BREATH the Pulse of the Universe, Founding Board Member of Expedition Balance, Founder and Producer of Categories of Progressive Thought, and Founder of The Heights School of Yoga in Houston, Texas. She has worked with cancer patients and post-treatment survivors since surviving cancer herself in 2012. In addition, she is a museum-level fine artist, specializing in black and white drawings and biomorphic sculptures. Pam makes her home in Houston, Texas.
John Tanner earned his M.S. degree in Electrical Engineering and his Ph.D. in Computer Science from Caltech. He is the Founder and CEO of Tanner Research, Inc.; the Founder and Director of NuSci, The Nutrition Science Foundation (www.nusci.org); and the Founder of Little Green Forks, a low-fat plant-based catering and food delivery service (www.littlegreenforks.com). While on a run in 2009, he suffered a heart attack and credits 17 people with saving his life, which led to his journey of researching the link between a whole food plant diet and the eradication of heart disease. John, his wife, and their two sons live in California. For $15 off your first order of $30 or more from Little Green Forks, use coupon code THNX15NEW!
Dan Wannamaker was born in Alabama and attended the University of Texas and South Texas College of Law. He started his career clerking for the Criminal Court of Appeals and has spent nearly four decades representing the accused as both a Federal Public Defender in Texas and Alabama and as a private attorney. He has two rare distinctions: (1) being board certified in criminal law and crinimal appellate law and (2) obtaining a pardon from President Obama on behalf of one of his clients. Dan and his wife live in Austin, Texas.
BethAnne Garcia is an artist and stay-at-home mom with three children and one dog. She grew up in a small Connecticut town, where her love of painting began; she went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Delaware and rediscover herself as an artist in 2019 by painting fence posts, which now grow in Illinois, Connecticut, Colorado, California, New Hampshire, and Texas. Now, she paints regularly in her home studio and teaches art classes. BethAnne lives in Kingwood, Texas with her husband, three children, and dog.
Colin Gilmore is a second-generation singer-songwriter who grew up in Lubbock, Texas and was influenced by Buddy Holly, Joe Ely, Butch Hancock, The Ramones, and Johnny Cash among others. While studying at Texas State University, he minored in Classical Music after developing an appreciation of the great composers. He has released 3 studio albums, a live record, and 4 EPs and singles. Colin is currently recording and touring with West Texas Exiles and lives with his wife in Austin, Texas.
Judge David Newell is currently serving his second elected term on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. He was born in Bethesda, Maryland and studied to be a writer, earning a degree in English with Honors from the University of Houston. After a friend was attacked, he began volunteering at the Houston Area Women's Center, which led to his decision to pivot careers and go to law school. He served with the Fort Bend and Harris County District Attorney's Offices before running to be a judge on the Court of Criminal Appeals. David and his wife live in Houston, Texas with their two sons.
Gabi Magaly is a contemporary artist who expresses herself using a variety of mediums in diverse works of art. Her experiences as a first generation American and as a Chicana fighting against her father's conservative beliefs regarding traditional roles for women are some of her biggest influences. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Sam Houston State University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she also served as an Instructor of Record. In addition to working as an Assistant Professor of Photography for Dine College, she has been featured in exhibitions all over the world and has received numerous awards for her work. Gabi now resides in San Antonio, Texas.
Tim Duffy is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Music Maker Relief Foundation, a non-profit based in Hillsborough, North Carolina that seeks to "help the true pioneers and forgotten heroes of Southern music gain recognition and meet their day-to-day needs." After earning a Bachelor's Degree from Friends World College and a Master's Degree in Folklore at the University of Carolina at Chapel Hill, he worked as a substitute teacher, an experience that led him to begin Music Maker in 1994 to assist traditional musicians in need. Music Maker has produced more than 150 albums, two films, and presented dozens of Southern artists at venues and festivals around the world, all through prioritizing the health and quality of life of the over 500 artists they've worked with, almost all of whom are over the age of 55 and make less than $25,000 per year. Tim, his wife - and Co-Founder - Denise, and their two children live in North Carolina.
Ann Henderson is the Founder of Rainbow of Hope Texas, a special education school that provides a nurturing place for young adults with developmental disabilities to go after they age out of high school. Unlike a traditional school, Rainbow of Hope relies on nature and animals, especially equine assisted learning, to enhance the students' learning experiences. She has been working with children in special education programs since she was a teenager. Anne and her husband Jack live in Rosharon, Texas.
The THNX: A Feelgood Podcast Team would like to wish all of our guests and listeners a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year. We share with you our sounds of home with Allen Hill performing Downtown Saturday Night, Guy Schwartz performing This is the One, and The Mighty Orq performing Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. For some additional uplifting sounds this season, please listen to any of our past episodes, and we will be back with a brand new episode of THNX: A Feelgood Podcast on January 10, 2023.
Hannah Bladh has been painting since she was a child and finds beauty in the ordinary things and places around her. She graduated from Brigham Young University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts. Hannah and her husband make Houston, Texas their home.
Shane Swartzlander is the founder of Blackland Razors. After graduating from Purdue University with a degree in Physics, he began using a 3D printer and discovered the market and demand for quality razors. Since its inception in 2015, Blackland Razors has become one of the most respected companies in the shaving industry. Shane and his wife live in San Diego, California with their two cats.
Gaby Klerian describes herself as a storyteller through painting. She was raised in Mexico City and was exposed to art by her parents. As an eleven-year-old in Florence, Italy, she decided her life work would revolve around art. Years later, she returned to Florence to earn her first degree in painting and artistic graphics and proceeded to earn a graphic design degree in Mexico City. In addition to being a painter, she has been a classic ballet dancer for 27 years. Having lived on the east and west coast of the United Stated, Gaby presently lives in The Woodlands, Texas with her husband and three children.
THNX: A Feelgood Podcast wants to wish all our guests and listeners the happiest of Thanksgivings. Please listen to past episodes, do a kind deed, or think about who you are thankful for in your own life. We are so grateful for all of you, and we'll be back next week!
Allan Hursig, also known as The Bearded Baker, grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He studied Energy Management at The University of Tulsa and began working in the oil and gas business upon graduation. Upon moving to Houston, Texas for his job, a fluctuation in the energy sector caused him to be laid off. With spare time on his hands, he began cooking and baking, eventually beginning to sell specialty cookies out of his home in 2016. Allan now has a brick and mortar establishment in Houston, has been on the Food Network and other publications and shows, and lives with his wife in Houston, Texas.
Allan Hursig, also known as The Bearded Baker, grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He studied Energy Management at The University of Tulsa and began working in the oil and gas business upon graduation. Upon moving to Houston, Texas for his job, a fluctuation in the energy sector caused him to be laid off. With spare time on his hands, he began cooking and baking, eventually beginning to sell specialty cookies out of his home in 2016. Allan now has a brick and mortar establishment in Houston, has been on the Food Network and other publications and shows, and lives with his wife in Houston, Texas.
Beth Aplin Martin was born in Grand Chenier, Louisiana, moved around a lot during her childhood, and spent her formative years in Seadrift, Texas. Her life changed immeasurably when her father, a fisherman, was killed amidst a struggle between the established fisherman and the group of recently arrived Vietnamese fisherman in Seadrift. She went on to study at Del Mar College, has worked in a variety of fields, and can be seen in the documentary Seadrift. Beth now lives in Seguin, Texas.
Beth Aplin Martin was born in Grand Chenier, Louisiana, moved around a lot during her childhood, and spent her formative years in Seadrift, Texas. Her life changed immeasurably when her father, a fisherman, was killed amidst a struggle between the established fisherman and the group of recently arrived Vietnamese fisherman in Seadrift. She went on to study at Del Mar College, has worked in a variety of fields, and can be seen in the documentary Seadrift. Beth now lives in Seguin, Texas.
Sean was born in Detroit, Michigan and spent his formative years in Pennsylvania. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering and held a number of positions as an operations manager until he founded Fox and Seeker, a distiller and distributor of liquor that focuses on sustainability and local goods. Sean now lives in Houston, Texas with his wife and their daughter.
Jordan Garcia is the founder of Gut Friendly Bread. He served in the Navy and studied art at Coastline Community College and nutrition at Sam Houston State University. Through a friend, his service, and his studies, he realized the connection between nutritious food and good health, so he decided to leave his studies, get into baking, and found his company. Jordan lives in Houston, Texas with his wife and son.
Vivienne St. John brings the arts to all children as the Theater for Youth Artistic Director at Main Street Theater in Houston, Texas. The venue has built an accommodation program to address the unique needs of each child who wants to experience a show. She grew up in London, England and Houston, Texas, graduated from St. Agnes Academy, and earned her undergraduate degree in theater at Webster University in Webster Groves, Missouri. Vivienne, her husband and two daughters live in Sugarland, Texas.
Joel Holmes, aka JOHO, was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and moved to Houston, Texas in elementary school. He graduated High School in Houston and attended Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He began writing songs when he was five years old; now, at age 25, he has released seven LPs and three EPs, ranging from Hip-Hop, to Alternative, to Contemporary Rock. Joel lives and works in Houston, Texas.
Luis Linares was born in Venezuela and realized early on that he was a gifted tennis player. After attempting to play professionally, he got a degree in civil engineering and began working in the construction field. He soon began buying and selling heavy construction equipment, then shifted his focus to specializing in cranes, becoming a major seller domestically and internationally at Crane Monsters Corp. Luis, his wife, and their two sons live in Houston, Texas.
Roderick, also known as Rogg, was born in Houston, Texas and spent his formative years on the north side of town, where he developed an interest in art. While working at Walgreens, a friend helped him realize the potential of a career in the arts, and, shortly after, he became a tattoo artist whose work is in high demand. Rogg and his family make Houston, Texas their home.
Roderick, also known as Rogg, was born in Houston, Texas and spent his formative years on the north side of town, where he developed an interest in art. While working at Walgreens, a friend helped him realize the potential of a career in the arts, and, shortly after, he became a tattoo artist whose work is in high demand. Rogg and his family make Houston, Texas their home.
Chelsea Ohlemiller attended Ball State University, Anderson University, and the University of Alabama. She is an educator and, when her mother passed from cancer in 2017, a writer. She owns the website Happiness, Hope & Harsh Realities, where she and others support international peers who are experiencing grief and loss. Chelsea lives in Indiana with her husband and three children.
Chelsea Ohlemiller attended Ball State University, Anderson University, and the University of Alabama. She is an educator and, when her mother passed from cancer in 2017, a writer. She owns the website Happiness, Hope & Harsh Realities, where she and others support international peers who are experiencing grief and loss. Chelsea lives in Indiana with her husband and three children.
Selwyn Jones, former NFL cornerback and one of GQ's Men of the Year 2020, is the uncle of the late George Floyd. He now owns and operates a motel and has dedicated his life to fighting for change, pushing for equality for all people. Selwyn has four children and lives in Gettysburg, South Dakota with his wife.
Selwyn Jones, former NFL cornerback and one of GQ's Men of the Year 2020, is the uncle of the late George Floyd. He now owns and operates a motel and has dedicated his life to fighting for change, pushing for equality for all people. Selwyn has four children and lives in Gettysburg, South Dakota with his wife.
Selwyn Jones, former NFL cornerback and one of GQ's Men of the Year 2020, is the uncle of the late George Floyd. He now owns and operates a motel and has dedicated his life to fighting for change, pushing for equality for all people. Selwyn has four children and lives in Gettysburg, South Dakota with his wife.
Selwyn Jones, former NFL cornerback and one of GQ's Men of the Year 2020, is the uncle of the late George Floyd. He now owns and operates a motel and has dedicated his life to fighting for change, pushing for equality for all people. Selwyn has four children and lives in Gettysburg, South Dakota with his wife.
Roderick Batson received his undergraduate degree from Texas Lutheran University and his Master's Degree from Capella University. He is the founder and owner of Vortex Surgical Products and a partner in Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, which provides meaningful employment for adults with special needs. Roderick, his wife, and two children live in Houston, Texas.
Roderick Batson received his undergraduate degree from Texas Lutheran University and his Master's Degree from Capella University. He is the founder and owner of Vortex Surgical Products and a partner in Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, which provides meaningful employment for adults with special needs. Roderick, his wife, and two children live in Houston, Texas.
Shawn Seipler is the founder and CEO of Clean the World, a company that serves the needs of underserved people around the world. His efforts have reduced the mortality rate of children caused by hygiene-related diseases by supplying recycled soap produced from soap discarded by hotels. Shawn, his wife, and children live in Orlando, Florida.
June Cross is a documentary filmmaker and professor at Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, where she founded the documentary specialization. She graduated from Harvard Radcliffe College and has worked as a reporter and producer in addition to making a film and authoring a book about her life, both titled Secret Daughter. She has won numerous awards, including a Peabody and 2 Emmy Awards. June now lives in New York, New York with her husband.
The Mighty Orq is a professional guitarist from Houston, Texas, where he attended Lamar High School and earned his moniker. His music is classified as Americana, and, in the last 20 years, he has released seven recordings and has played countless shows all over the world. His sound is predominantly blues and pays homage to Mississippi and Chicago. The Mighty Orq and his wife live in Houston, Texas.
Pamela Gail Johnson is a speaker, author of Practical Happiness, and founder of the Society of Happy People. Originally from West Texas, she has lived in West Palm Beach, Florida, worked for companies like Staples and American Express, and, in 1998, started the Secret Society of Happy People, a collective of happy people who needed a tribe. After 20 years and international attention, it was no secret anymore, and the group became just the Society of Happy People. Pamela created 3 international holidays: Happiness Happens Day (August 8), Happiness Happens Month (August), and Hunt for Happiness Week (August 1-7). Join Pamela and THNX in celebrating choosing happiness this Happiness Happens Month!
Bill Rodgers was born in Hartford, Connecticut and attended Wesleyan University and Boston College. As a 4-time winner of both the Boston and New York Marathons, a winner of the Fukuoka Marathon, and an Olympian representing America in 1976, he is one of the most recognized runners in the United States. Additionally, he has run in hundreds of races, received dozens of awards and distinctions, broken numerous records, and authored several books about running. Bill is still runnning in his seventies and lives in Boxbourough, Massachusettes.
Bill Rodgers was born in Hartford, Connecticut and attended Wesleyan University and Boston College. As a 4-time winner of both the Boston and New York Marathons, a winner of the Fukuoka Marathon, and an Olympian representing America in 1976, he is one of the most recognized runners in the United States. Additionally, he has run in hundreds of races, received dozens of awards and distinctions, broken numerous records, and authored several books about running. Bill is still runnning in his seventies and lives in Boxbourough, Massachusettes.
Christine Cummins is a budding soprano from Atlanta, Georgia. She earned her Bachelors of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from Florida State University and her Masters of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Houston, where she appeared in multiple shows. In addition to singing, she enjoys performing musical theatre, has 14 years of training in piano, and taught herself how to play the bass guitar. Christine currently resides in Houston, Texas and is an active member of the Houston Chamber Choir.
Theo Acker, a native Texan, is a speaker, podcast host, and author who focuses on individuals who have experienced loss in a sudden or traumatic way, something she is familiar with after losing her mother in 2019. Earlier in life, she worked in mortgages and as an English teacher, even winning Rookie Teacher of the Year. She wrote a book entitled My Grief is Not Like Yours, which will be released on Mothers' Day in 2023. Theo’s genuine love for helping others and shedding light in a dark moment are what make THINK THEO, available on all streaming platforms.
Rand Mintzer, the creator and co-host of THNX, is interviewed by Think Theo's host Theo Acker. Make sure to give Think Theo a listen, and enjoy her interview with Rand!
Sam Peña, born in Los Angeles, California, grew up in El Paso, Texas and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas at El Paso. He also completed paramedic training at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Before becoming a firefighter in El Paso, Sam spent 4 years in the US Air Force. He has since served as a firefighter for about 28 years, working on special teams, leading the El Paso Fire Department for 3 years, and transferring to Houston, Texas as the fire chief of one of the largest municipal fire departments in the nation. Sam and his wife have been married for 35 years and live in Houston, Texas.
Jeff Galloway was born in North Carolina and attended Florida State University and Weslayan University. He is an All-American Collegiate Athlete and an Olympian; he competed in the 1972 Olympics, running the 10,000 meter race for the United States. He is an author, inspirational speaker, lifelong runner, founder of the running store Phidippedes, and the inventor of the run/walk /run method, which has allowed him to work with and mentor over 300,000 runners. Jeff is the father of two adult sons, and he and his wife Barbara live in Atlanta, Georgia.
Jeff Galloway was born in North Carolina and attended Florida State University and Weslayan University. He is an All-American Collegiate Athlete and an Olympian; he competed in the 1972 Olympics, running the 10,000 meter race for the United States. He is an author, inspirational speaker, lifelong runner, founder of the running store Phidippedes, and the inventor of the run/walk /run method, which has allowed him to work with and mentor over 300,000 runners. Jeff is the father of two adult sons, and he and his wife Barbara live in Atlanta, Georgia.
Gene Velasquez, a Houston native, graduated from the Art Institute of Houston. He began singing in cover bands at 18 years old and has since fronted two tribute bans, one dedicated to Poison and the other to The Cure, in addition to touring with a Spanish-speaking band that performed original material. As if Gene’s life was not interesting enough, listen to the story behind his motto: You only live twice.
Allen Hill is a Houston-based musician and booking agent who graduated from the University of Texas and the University of Houston. He has played with numerous bands, including Banana Blender Surprise, The El Orbits, and the Allen Oldies Band, known for playing extended sets. Allen has his own booking agency, books talent for The Continental Club, records music, fronts a band, and has played with too many legendary musicians to list. Allen, a native Houstonian, lives in Houston, Texas.
Andy Yelenak earned degrees from Alberta Magnus College of Fine Arts and Paier College of Art. For over 40 years he has worked as a freelance illustrator for magazines, corporate clients, sports art, and portraits. He has been featured in numerous exhibits, created multiple official marathon posters, provided many covers for Marathon and Beyond, and illustrated the children's book Run Dad Run, just to name a few of his accomplishments. Andy and his wife live in North Haven, Connecticut.
Akilah Bacy was born and raised in Houston, Texas. She obtained a Bachelor's Degree from Spellman College, and earned her Doctorate of Jurisprudence from Texas Tech University School of Law. She was an Assistant District Attorney in Harris County for over three years. Following a stint as an adjunct college professor, she opened her own law office, then ran for the Texas House of Representatives to represent District 138 as a Democrat in 2020. Akilah now lives in her home city of Houston.
Kristina Perez earned her undergraduate degree and Masters of Education from Texas A&M University. She has taught school, been a Department Chair, worked in school administration, and has been a Director for two school districts. She was the CEO for Zenith Learning and is presently the Director of Development for Houston Community College. In 2022, she received the Women of Excellence Award. Kristina lives in Houston with her 4 children.
Colleen Cavanaugh, originally from Arizona, is the Houston Zoo’s Teen Programs Supervisor. She is responsible for the education programs for 13-17 year olds, which include the Zoo Crew programs and Adventures programs. Prior to this dream position, she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Conservation and Management from the University of Arizona and a Master's Degree in Environmental Education from Southern Oregon University. Colleen lives in Houston, Texas with her beloved pets.
Robert Ray was born in Marshall, Texas, graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in PR and Journalism, and earned his JD from South Texas College of Law. He was a briefing attorney for the Sixth Court of Appeals in Texarkana and worked as a trial lawyer for the following 12 years. He then earned a Ph.D. and a Masters of Arts from the University of Nebraska. After graduating, he became a trial consultant and founded Veritas Research, through which he has consulted all over the United States. Robert and his wife Martha make their home in Houston, Texas.
John Viviano was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri and earned post graduate degrees from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and Washington University, where he has returned as an adjunct lecturer. He has been an IT leader and software developer for the last 25 years, has been involved in creating numerous technology-enabled products, and has founded three start-ups. He is a co-founder and partner in Evidentia Learning, a global learning community of institutions and medical professionals commited to serving victims of child abuse and neglect. Additionally, he volunteers as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children. John and his wife live in Missouri and are proud parents of two children.
Robert Armstrong, originally from Trenton, New Jersey, has been a commercial pilot domestically and internationally for 32 years. Right before graduating from Northern Michigan University, he crossed paths with Navy recruiters and ended up flying and landing cargo haulers on aircraft carries, spending the majority of his 7 years in the Navy in the Philippines. Upon leaving, he was in the reserves, assisted with interviewing for the Naval Academy, and became a pilot for a commercial airline. He and his wife, who have been married 40 years this year, live in Pensacola, Florida.
Hobart Welsh was born in Cherry Point, North Carolina on a Marine Corps air base. After attending San Antonio College and California State University Long Beach for a few years, he worked as a night club DJ for 15 years. The job brought him to live and work in many cities in California, Texas, and Arizona. He has also worked for numerous liquor brands in promotion, marketing, and sales. He recently started Zswirler, a brand centered around inclusivity. Hobart has two children and lives in Houston, Texas.
Autumn Rosemond is the Owner and Artistic Director of Houston Dance Works, a dance school in Houston, Texas founded in 2011. She is trained in most types of dance, from ballet to hip-hop, and has held the roles of competitor, professional dancer at Second Generation dance compnay, and teacher and choreographer. She earned her undergraduate degree with honors from Texas State University and a postgraduate degree from Syracuse University. Originally from Port Arthur, Autumn now lives in Houston with her husband James, their 3 children, and their pets.
Chris Baker has worked as a comedian and in radio. He was one of the most listened-to radio talk show hosts in Houston, Texas. He can presently be heard on The Chris Baker Podcast. He is unapologetic in his views and enjoys brisk political discussion.
Chris Jordan, a New Orleans native, is a Senior Engineer at Barron Studios in Houston, Texas. He's been an engineer, producer, and writer since he was 13 and went to school to study music. He owns Protect the Vibe, a collective focused on music, art, community, and culture, and has released an instrumental Hip-Hop album with the same name. Chris lives in Houston, Texas and has recorded and edited every episode of THNX.
Todd Macek is the manager and co-owner of Barron Studios and the Barron Collective in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Texas A&M University with a major in History and minors in Russian and Journalism. After writing for a newspaper in a small Texas town and driving trucks with a hazmat tanker certification, he and his brother grew Barron Studios from a booth they created in a downtown loft. Now, they run two locations and 10 studios that are some of the most premier and sought-after in Houston. Todd has called Houston home since 2004.
Krystal LaPorte is a criminal defense attorney and voice actor from Chicago, Illinois. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, Psycology, and Philosophy from the University of Illinois, then a J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center. She has been practicing criminal defense for about 5 years and has voiced over 60 bodies of work in animation and video games. Krystal lives in the Dallas-Fort Worth area with her beloved pets.
Coltrane Curtis is the Founder and Managing Partner of Team Epiphany, an experiential marketing company in NYC. After growing up in Brooklyn, New York, he graduated from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. He was the VP of Marketing for Marc Ecko Enterprises for 8 years, the editor of Complex Magazine, a founding member of G-Unit apparel, and an MTV/Viacom VJ and TV personality. Coltrane and his wife Lisa founded Team Epiphany in 2004 and live in Brooklyn, New York with their two sons.
Coltrane Curtis is the Founder and Managing Partner of Team Epiphany, an experiential marketing company in NYC. After growing up in Brooklyn, New York, he graduated from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. He was the VP of Marketing for Marc Ecko Enterprises for 8 years, the editor of Complex Magazine, a founding member of G-Unit apparel, and an MTV/Viacom VJ and TV personality. Coltrane and his wife Lisa founded Team Epiphany in 2004 and live in Brooklyn, New York with their two sons.
Murray Newman was born and raised in Bryan, Texas. He earned his BA in History from Texas A&M University and his law degree from the University of Houston. Following law school, Murray was a prosecutor for the Harris County District Attorney's Office for 9 years. After leaving the DA's office, he began practicing criminal defense. He is a legal consultant on the television show Cold Justice and the author of a blog commenting on the criminal justice system in Houston. Murray and his wife live in Houston, Texas with their two sons and various loved animals.
Carol Crittenden is a native Houstonian. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Baylor University and a Master of Arts in Music from Louisiana State University in addition to completing graduate courses in Education. Carole taught elementary music in Houston and Virginia before teaching at the American International School in Budapest, Hungary for 9 years. Upon her return to the United States, she began teaching music in Fort Bend ISD, where she has now been an educator for 19 years. Carol plays both the oboe and English horn and has played both instruments professionally. She currently volunteers in various community orchestras. Carole and her husband Luis make their home in Houston, Texas.
Timothy Tays, PhD is a licensed clinical psychologist. He grew up in New Mexico and graduated from Kansas University, where he ran under the direction of Bob Timmons, the legendary running coach. He went on to get a Master's Degree from The University of New Mexico and his PhD from Palo Alto University. After working as a teacher, he pivoted towards psychotherapy, working as a student, intern, resident, and licensed clinical psychologist at Psychological Counseling Services, Ltd. until he opened his own practice. In addition to professional articles and text chapters, he authored Wannabe Distance God: The Thirst, Angst, and Passion of Running in the Chase Pack. Tim currently practices in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he lives with his wife and son.
Rabbi Stuart Federow has been the spiritual leader of Shaar Hashalom, a Synagogue, in Houston, Texas since 1995. He was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri, then earned his undergraduate degree from Brown University before completing his rabbinical studies at Hebrew Union College. Prior to moving to Houston, he led congregations in Mississippi and Southern California. He has taught college classes, can be found answering questions on the radio and internet, and authored a book, Judaism and Christianity: A Contrast. He is the proud father of two daughters and lives in Houston, Texas.
Gene Wu has served in the Texas House of Representatives since 2013 representing District 137. Shortly after he was born in China, he and his family moved to the United States and settled in Texas. He earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M, Master's degree from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, and J.D. from South Texas College of Law. Prior to being elected to office, he was a Harris County Prosecutor. Gene, his wife, and their two children live in Houston, Texas.
THNX: A Feelgood Podcast wishes all our guests, listeners, and their families the happiest of holidays and the most wonderful New Year. We hope you get to relax, spend time with family and friends, eat good food, and pay kindness forward. Please enjoy old episodes of THNX until we're back with brand new interviews in January.
Jeff Crosby was born in Idaho and began playing guitar at 15. Two years later, he dropped out of high school and began touring full time, supporting himself by permanently staying on the road. Jeff has released 5 albums and numerous singles and EPs, as well as having two songs featured on Sons of Anarchy. His sound is unique and can best be described as Americana; however, his entire body of work proves impossible to categorize. To ride out the pandemic, he has moved from Los Angeles to Nashville and back to Idaho. Jeff's latest release is Northstar and he has been touring heavily during the latter part of 2021.
Alexandra Cortez is in the current generation of hatters working at Paris Hatters, a business that was founded and has been in her family since 1917. It has been recognized as the oldest surviving business in San Antonio, Texas and recognized as a legacy business by the San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation. Alexandra began working at Paris Hatters as a child and continued after working in the fashion industry in New York City following the completion of her studies at Texas Tech University. She and her parents, Abe and Myrna, sell to approximately 11,000 customers that range from cowboys to Presidents.
Brigadier General Richard W. Mills earned a BS degree in Law Enforcement and Police Science from Sam Houston State University and a MS degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College. For 27 years he served in the United States Army Special Forces, holding many different positions and serving in many areas domestically and internationally. He attained the rank of Brigadier General and retired in 2007. His 2 sons both graduated from the SHSU ROTC program and have served on active duty. Richard and his wife now live in Damon, Texas.
THNX: A Feelgood Podcast wishes everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. To our listeners domestically and internationally - we will be back with a brand new episode next week! Enjoy time off with family, food, and old episodes of THNX.
Gary Mustiful founded Fastbreak USA in 2001. After moving around a lot growing up, he went to high school in San Antonio, Texas, graduated from Texas State University, and earned a Master's degree in Management. He worked in sales for 15 years before becoming a Court Coordinator in Harris County, Texas. His non-profit organization, Fastbreak USA, is in its 20th year of helping basketball players develop skills through tournaments, as well as focusing on academics, community service, and reaching their full potential both as players and young adults. Gary, his wife Charlotte, and their 3 children live in The Woodlands, Texas.
Little Jewford became known for playing piano with Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys, a band that formed in 1973 and played thousands of shows in many iconic venues worldwide. Jewford appears on 12 records with Kinky Friedman. Having released 2 solo recordings, Little Jewford is also a celebrated solo artist, drawing heavily from the Great American Songbook. His shows are a combination of musical brilliance and cutting edge humor. He has shared the stage with Willie Nelson, Levon Helm, Billy Joe Shaver, Jerry Jeff Walker, and Leon Russell. Little Jewford currently resides in Texas.
Judge Raul Rodriguez is a dual citizen, as he was born in Mexico and moved to the US at age 2. He earned a business degree from the University of Houston and worked in the corporate world before earning his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in 1992. After dedicating his practice to criminal law for over 26 years, he was appointed Associate Judge for 13 years. He then decided to run for a position and was elected to Harris County Court At Law 13 in 2018. In addition to his multiple board memberships, co-chair titles, and committee and sub-committee memberships, he presides over SOBER (Saving Ourselves By Education & Recovery) Court. Raul and his wife Patricia live in Houston, Texas.
Alisa White, Ph.D. is a Texas native who's lived in 9 states. She is currently the President of Sam Houston State University as well as a teaching professor. Following her MSLS and Bachelor's degree in Business, she earned her Ph.D. in Mass Communications. She has been in higher education for over 30 years, including holding faculty and leadership positions in Texas, Tennessee, Alaska, and Georgia. Dr. White and her husband live in Huntsville, Texas and have 3 children and 5 grandchildren (as of now!).
THNX: A Feelgood Podcast will be taking a short break due to a devastating loss in the family. JoAnn Vogrin was not only one of the first friends of the pod, she was a funny, compassionate soul who made a positive impact in the lives of every person who was lucky enough to know her. While we go dark, please consider doing something nice for someone else, donating to the American Heart Association or American Diabetes Association, or listening to a past episode to spread kindness.
Commissioner Jack Cagle attended Rice University and graduated with a triple major in 1983. Three years later, he graduated Baylor School of Law. He practiced law, serves as a County Court at Law Judge, and began serving as Commissioner for Precinct 4 in 2011. As Commissioner, he represents 1.3 million residents, manages a staff of 445, and has a budget exceeding $290 million. Jack and his wife of over 40 years have three children and live in Houston, Texas.
Kim Brown, born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, earned a BBA from Baylor. After graduating from South Texas College of Law in 1994, she practiced plaintiff's personal injury law. She and her husband Jay met at Baylor and went on to have three daughters. When they realized opportunities post-high school were limited for their child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), Kim started Belong Kitchen, a non-profit organization that employs young adults with IDD to prepare and sell grab and go family sized meals, as well as gives them a chance to make their own money, socialize outside of the home, and work in a supportive environment. Kim, Jay, and their children live in Houston, Texas.
Dwight Love was born and raised in DeWitt, Arkansas and earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Arkansas State University. After working for Touché Ross as a CPA for almost 4 years, he decided to continue his education at Harvard Business School. He spent the next 35 years working for Ford Motor Company, and even got to travel to places like Mexico and Brazil. Dwight is presently enjoying retirement in Florida.
Chris Tritico, a native Houstonian, has dedicated his life to defending the accused. After graduating from Sam Houston State University with a degree in Political Science, he went to law school at South Texas College of Law. He's been a lawyer about 40 years, has represented many high profile clients, and is a frequent legal commentator. Chris and his wife Debbie live in Houston, Texas.
Teresa Sharp, a native Houstonian, is an assistant principal in Pasadena, Texas. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Houston in 1990. She went on to work in the corporate world for a few years before going back to the University of Houston for a Master of Science in Elementary and Middle School Administration/Principalship. She taught 5th grade for 5 years, was a peer facilitator for 5 years, and has been an assistant principal for just over 13 years. Teresa has one daughter and lives in Houston, Texas with her husband.
Stephanie DeMartini, a first generation American on her father's side, grew up in Elmont, New York. She lived in Chile for a year during her teenage years, then graduated from high school in Garden City, New York. After attending Binghamton for an undergraduate degree in Art History, she earned her Masters of Science in Teaching from Fordham University. She taught in Rye, New York for 13 years before going to law school at age 38. Now a public defender, Stephanie enjoys her days as a Grateful Dead and Mets fan in Hudson Valley, New York.
Emily Parsons, who grew up on the East Coast, became a winemaker 12 years ago. She began working as an assistant to one of the founders at Eagle Harbor Wine Co. in 2009 while continuing her education at the University of California Davis. After getting married, she and her husband invested in Eagle Harbor Wine Co. in 2012; then, in 2014, she purchased it. Emily is now the owner and operator of the winery and lives with her husband of over 30 years and their 2 children in Bainbridge Island, Washington.
Pepper Massey, originally from Rhode Island, has lived all over the US and in Canada. After graduating with a Journalism major from Los Angeles Pierce College, she worked at a law firm, served as a director of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists, was executive director of Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, directed the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, served as director for the Rapid City Arts Council, and is presently employed by the Pennington County Fire Service and the Rapid City/Pennington County Department of Emergency Management. Pepper now lives in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Ziggy Gruber, originally from the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York, owns and operates the #1 delicatessen in the United States, Kenny & Ziggy's, in Houston, Texas. A third generation deli man, he began working in his family's restaurants at age 8. After his grandfather's death when Ziggy was 15, he moved to London and attended Cordon Bleu; following his graduation, he worked at London's first Michelin three-star restaurant, Le Gavroche. Two years later, he moved back to the US and operated delis in New York, California, and, eventually, Texas. He is the main focus of Deli Man, a 2015 documentary film looking at the people, food, and traditions behind delicatessens in Jewish culture. Since 1999, Ziggy has worked in his deli almost every day, and he, his wife, and their two daughters live in Houston, Texas.
Ziggy Gruber, originally from the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York, owns and operates the #1 delicatessen in the United States, Kenny & Ziggy's, in Houston, Texas. A third generation deli man, he began working in his family's restaurants at age 8. After his grandfather's death when Ziggy was 15, he moved to London and attended Cordon Bleu; following his graduation, he worked at London's first Michelin three-star restaurant, Le Gavroche. Two years later, he moved back to the US and operated delis in New York, California, and, eventually, Texas. He is the main focus of Deli Man, a 2015 documentary film looking at the people, food, and traditions behind delicatessens in Jewish culture. Since 1999, Ziggy has worked in his deli almost every day, and he, his wife, and their two daughters live in Houston, Texas.
Hezekiah "Heck" Watkins, born in Wisconsin and raised in Mississippi, is the youngest Freedom Rider and has been a civil rights activist since the early 1960s. After being arrested at age 13, he began organizing boycotts and registering Black voters in Mississippi; he was arrested over 100 times during those years, ordinarily with unnecessary force. In 2019, he published Pushing Forward: The Story of Mississippi's Youngest Freedom Rider, a book about his experiences during the civil rights movement. Hezekiah lives in Jackson, MS and spends his days working at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.
Hezekiah "Heck" Watkins, born in Wisconsin and raised in Mississippi, is the youngest Freedom Rider and has been a civil rights activist since the early 1960s. After being arrested at age 13, he began organizing boycotts and registering Black voters in Mississippi; he was arrested over 100 times during those years, ordinarily with unnecessary force. In 2019, he published Pushing Forward: The Story of Mississippi's Youngest Freedom Rider, a book about his experiences during the civil rights movement. Hezekiah lives in Jackson, MS and spends his days working at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.
Jeri Yenne, a Wisconsin native, was a licensed attorney for 38 years and served the people of Brazoria County, Texas for 32 years. She has been a City Attorney, Assistant District Attorney, and, most recently, District Attorney, a position she held for 22 years until her retirement. Jeri and her husband Bill, who is the former City Manager for Lake Jackson, Texas, are retired and live in Brazoria County.
Matt Busch manages Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, a position that even House Speaker Nancy Pelosi expressed envy over. Originally from Long Island, he graduated from the University of Albany SUNY, where he majored in Sociology, then worked handling merchandise for God Street Wine. He went on to work with Gov't Mule, Common Rotation, Bob Weir and Ratdog, Further, The Dead, Phil Lesh, and Wolf Bros. He routes tours, selects venues, deals with travel logistics and tour accounting, puts together Dead and Company's set lists, and much more. Matt currently spends most of his time in California, but travels all over the country and the world with Bob Weir and Dead and Company.
Lee Miller is one of the greatest -- if not the greatest -- living bootmakers. Originally from Vermont, he has been wearing cowboy boots his whole life. He graduated from Oklahoma State University, where he learned how to make cowboy boots, in 1972. After working for various bootmakers, he was invited to work with Charlie Dunn, another legendary bootmaker, at his store Texas Traditions in 1977. Until Charlie's retirement, Lee learned many bootmaking techniques, some dating back over a century. Every pair of boots he makes is completely done by hand; if you want a pair, you'll need to join the 4 year waiting list. Now the owner and operator of Texas Traditions, Lee lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Carrlyn.
Lee Miller is one of the greatest -- if not the greatest -- living bootmakers. Originally from Vermont, he has been wearing cowboy boots his whole life. He graduated from Oklahoma State University, where he learned how to make cowboy boots, in 1972. After working for various bootmakers, he was invited to work with Charlie Dunn, another legendary bootmaker, at his store Texas Traditions in 1977. Until Charlie's retirement, Lee learned many bootmaking techniques, some dating back over a century. Every pair of boots he makes is completely done by hand; if you want a pair, you'll need to join the 4 year waiting list. Now the owner and operator of Texas Traditions, Lee lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Carrlyn.
Michael Beck, who grew up for 11 years in Germany, has been a teacher for over 20 years. After graduating from Arkansas State University in 1982 and Columbia College in 1990, he worked in the music industry as a booking agent for predominantly classic blues musicians for many years. Michael later earned 2 Master's Degrees, one in 2002 in Education and one in 2008 in Special Education. He taught Social Science in secondary education settings for 6 years, then worked as a Special Education teacher at the Chicago Children's Center for Behavioral Health for 9 years. Michael and his wife are retiring to Tennessee, where he will continue his passion part-time as a substitute teacher.
Vivienne Schiffer, a novelist and filmmaker, grew up in Rohwer, Arkansas. She attended All Saints Episcopal School in Vicksburg, Mississippi; Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas; and law school at Tulane in New Orleans, Louisiana. She has been a big firm attorney, worked as in-house counsel, wrote the novel Camp Nine, and directed and produced the documentary film Relocation Arkansas - Aftermath of Incarceration. Her works focus on the incarceration and experiences of Japanese Americans in the Deep South. Vivienne and her husband Paul have 4 children, 6 grandchildren (with one on the way!), and live in Houston, Texas.
Kristin Guiney is the Executive Director of Angela House, a non-profit organization that provides trauma-informed rehabilitative services to formerly incarcerated women. Prior, she graduated from Emory University, earned her JD at the University of Houston Law Center, was an Assistant District Attorney, and served as District Judge of the 179th and 232nd district courts. Kristin lives in Houston with her husband Ed and their two daughters.
Jessica Brown, a professor of sociology, is from Madison, Wisconsin. She studied Government, Psychology, and Women's Studies at Cornell, then went on to earn her PhD in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2010. She researches topics such as immigration, transnational sociology, gender, and race and ethnicity, and her articles have been published uncountable times. Jessica now lives in Houston with her husband Stephen, a criminal defense attorney, and their twins, Sam and Jane.
Jay Blakesberg is a commercial music photographer and filmmaker who has been keeping a record of the alternative and rock and roll music scenes since the 1970s. His work has been featured in hundreds of magazines including Time, Rolling Stone, and Vanity Fair; he has shot magazine covers, record covers and art, music videos, and live performance videos. In addition, he has documented the Grateful Dead and their subsequent incarnations. He has published numerous of his own books, as well as those of other photographers and artists, through his publishing company Rock Out Books. Jay currently resides in San Francisco and is dad to Ricki.
Bryan Kelly, a native Texan, is an Intensive Care Unit nurse. After college, he went to Chiropractic School, along with his brother Scott, in 2003. Wanting something different after graduation, Bryan entered nursing school, graduated, and has been practicing since 2008. The majority of his work is in Critical Care in the ICU. Bryan now lives in Fort Worth, Texas with his wife Andrea and their two children.
Fun fact: Bryan ran a marathon, which is how he met co-host Rand, with absolutely no training!
Kayla Slater, RDN, is a nutritionist and run coach who helps athletes gain their full potential at Plant-Based Performance Nutrition and Run Coaching. She studied English at Westminster College, English and Health & Fitness at SUNY College at Oneonta, and, later, Nutrition and Dietetics. She can also be heard on The Plant Based Performance Podcast. A New York native, Kayla currently lives in Palm Harbor, Florida.
George Gruel is a renowned photographer who lived the rock and roll lifestyle to the hilt for many years. He was roommates with Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, toured with The New Riders of The Purple Sage and The Eagles, and, during his most colorful times, worked as the aide de camp to Warren Zevon for 5 years, a journey chronicled in the book Lawyers, Guns & Photos. His photos have been featured in numerous shows, magazines, and books, both nationally and internationally. George and his wife Jan now live in Arizona.
Mark Stone, a St. Louis, Missouri native, studied Speech Communications and Radio/TV/Film at the University of Missouri at Columbia, where he graduated in 1981. He has since worked in Broadcast Operations and Engineering at CNN, ABC, CBS, EchoStar, and MLB.com (BAMTech), and even earned an Emmy in 2020. Mark now works at NBC Sports in Connecticut, and one constant thread throughout his life has been practicing and performing magic.
Janet Flood is a baker who started Yellow Bird Cakery in Houston, Texas. Janet, a native Houstonian, studied psychology at the University of Texas. After battling alcoholism, she discovered her extraordinary baking skills, even making "good luck cakes" for the Houston Astros that superstitiously guarantee a home run, if not an all-out victory. Janet and her husband Charles live in Houston with their three sons.
David Gans is a musician, songwriter, music journalist, and author of five published books, four of them relating to the Grateful Dead. He hosts the Grateful Dead Hour and Tales from the Golden Road on radio. He has released numerous recordings, toured extensively, and has played with countless musicians. David is married to fellow artist Rita Hurault.
Jesse McClure III is a judge on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, the third African American judge on the court in Texas history. Prior, he presided over the 339th Criminal District Court in Harris County, Texas. He graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and received his law degree from the University of Texas. He has practiced with a private firm, served as Assistant District Attorney in Terrant County, Texas, and was a special prosecutor for the Texas Department of Insurance. He and his wife Katie have three children.
Paul J. Matthews, also known as Captain, is the founder of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. The museum is the first of its kind in the United States and is one of the top draws for tourists in Houston, Texas. Mr. Matthews served in the United States Army, including time in Vietnam during the war, and, upon his return home, went to work as a pharmaceutical representative and continued to rise through the ranks until retirement. The impetus for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum was Paul's wife pointing out the amount of space his lifelong collection of military memorabilia pertaining to the African American experience was taking up. Mr. Matthews can be found in the museum addressing all levels of concern and teaching museum visitors an important part of our collective history.
Mike Fields, a graduate of St. Mary's School of Law, presided over County Court at Law 14 in Harris County, Texas for twenty years. Prior to taking the bench, he worked for the Harris County District Attorney and the Texas Attorney General before starting his own law practice. Presently, he presides as a visiting judge and serves on several boards; Judge Fields has a long history of community involvement. He and his wife live in Houston with their two daughters.
Ashley Cain Land is the County Attorney of Chambers County, Texas, approximately 50 miles east of Houston, Texas. She graduated from South Texas College of Law in 2016 and is a fifth-generation attorney, as well as one of the youngest County Attorneys in the state. Ashley lives in Mont Belvieu, Texas with her husband and their two sons.
Ken Stewart became a certified diver in 1990 at the age of 46. A park archeologist peaked his interest about a sunken slave ship, and, in 2003, he helped form Divers With A Purpose, a partnership between the National Association of Black Scuba Divers and the National Parks Service. Ken has been active in conservation, training young divers and training divers of all ages to function as marine archeologists. He has received multiple awards for his accomplishments, but would be the first to point out he is only one person of many contributing to such great causes. Ken has three sons and lives in Tennessee.
Dick Beardsley is a lauded American long distance runner. A few of his accomplishments include tying for first place in the first inaugural London Marathon in 1981; winning Grandma's Marathon later that year in Duluth, Minnesota, setting and holding the course record for 33 years; and a close finish with Alberto Salazar running the Boston Marathon in 1982, a race memorialized in the book "Duel in the Sun." Following a series of accidents and subsequent surgeries, Dick became an addict. He has been sober since February 12, 1997. His memoir "Staying the Course: A Runner's Toughest Race" was published in 2002. Dick is now a motivational/inspirational speaker and a fishing guide, and he and his wife Jill own and operate a bed and breakfast in their town, Bemidji, Minnesota.
Desmond Bertrand-Pitts spent his early years in Mamou, Louisiana. He earned a Bachelor of Science and a Masters Degree from Lamar University, as well as an MBA from American Intercontinental University. He was the Director of Business before becoming the CEO of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston, Texas. Desmond mentors young men to achieve their maximum potential, and founded M.E.N. Incorporated to do just that. He is married and makes his home in Houston, Texas.
John Nova Lomax has been a journalist in Houston, Texas for 20 years. After graduating from Belmont in Nashville, Tennessee, he had a variety of jobs including oyster shucker, landscape gardener, British Telecom clerk, and field hand in Israel. John settled down in journalism at the Houston Press, where he reviewed and introduced all types of music to his readers as a Music Editor and Staff Writer for nearly 12 years. After working briefly at Swamplot.com, he was a Senior Editor at Texas Monthly for almost 4 years. John is currently a freelance writer with a contract at Texas Highways and lives in Houston, Texas with his children.
Prior to becoming an attorney, David Adler was an officer for the Central Intelligence Agency in conflict zones in Africa. Originally from Long Island, New York, he graduated law school from Texas Southern University before heading into the CIA. Upon his return, he moved to Houston, Texas and began working as a criminal defense lawyer. David is known for his zealous representation on behalf of all his clients and has been recognized for his efforts to provide quality representation to the indigent and underserved. He's handled about 800 criminal cases in Federal court and has even won awards such as Lawyer of the Year and the Judge Thomas M. Reavley Award for Outstanding Public Service. David lives with his son and daughter in Houston.
Greg Funderburk became a Minister of Pastoral Care in 2012 after practicing law for 21 years. He graduated from Baylor University in 1987 and the University of Texas School of Law in 1990, then moved home to Houston, Texas to work as an attorney. After over two decades, Greg began working at South Main Baptist Church and was ordained in 2013. He published "The Mourning Wave" in 2020 and has "Let It Be Said, We've Borne It Well" coming out in Spring 2021. Greg lives in Houston with his wife Kelly and their two sons.
Sarah Lee Guthrie, a gifted folksinger in her own right, is the daughter of Arlo Guthrie and granddaughter of the late Woody Guthrie. Her first recorded appearance as a vocalist was as a toddler, and she later passed on college to tour with her father, first as road manager then as part of the band. In a career that has exceeded two decades, Sarah Lee has written, recorded, and performed as a solo artist, in bands, and with her family and Johnny Irion. In her own words, she is a link in the chain of folk singers. Originally from Massachusetts, Sarah Lee now lives in Austin with her 2 daughters.
Jaye Ramsey Sutter has taught college and University level political science for over three decades. Additionally, she serves students as a pre-law advisor and appears regularly as a political commentator, TV panelist, and public lecturer. She earned both Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees from Baylor University, a secondary teaching certificate at Texas State University, and a law degree from South Texas College of Law. Jaye worked as a clerk for John O'Quinn and was employed by Jim Mattox, the Attorney General of Texas, as a legislative analyst. She has been a professor at Houston Community College, Austin Community College, and the University of Houston throughout the last 32 years. Jaye and her husband of 35 years, Ben, divide their time between Houston, Texas and Rayville, Louisiana.
Dan Cogdell is one of the premier criminal defense attorneys in the United States. After graduating from The University of Texas in 1979, he attended South Texas College of Law. He began his legal career as a briefing attorney for Judge John Onion, Presiding Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, then went on to become the youngest attorney to make partner at Haynes & Fullenweider. Dan broke off from the legendary "Racehorse" Haynes in 1988 to open his own firm. He has tried over 300 jury trials and is presently defending the Attorney General of the state of Texas. He is also a frequent lecturer and speaker, appears in local, national, and global media, and even races motorcycles. Dan lives in Houston, Texas with his wife Robin.
Gavin Tabone is a choir director and music teacher from Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Music Theory in 1996 and moved to Austin, Texas in 1997. While working as an outreach supervisor for the Parks & Recreation Department, he started working with an elementary school in the area and got recruited to be the music teacher there in 2000. He moved to Barton Hills Elementary in 2009, where he and his choir now specialize in classic rock covers like Grateful Dead and The Beatles, and has been there ever since. Gavin lives in Austin with his wife Danielle and their daughter. Listen to the end for a special treat!
THNX: A Feelgood Podcast wishes our listeners and guests the happiest of holidays and a wonderful New Year. We will release our next new episode on January 5, 2021. Until then, please listen to and enjoy any of our guest's amazing and inspiring stories published thus far. We also wish to thank everyone who has supported THNX; you have given us the gift of your time and that is greatly appreciated. Stay well, and we will be streaming again soon.
Matt Pisarcik, founder of Razor Emporium, was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, went to a Jesuit high school there, and graduated from Arizona State University in 2007. While working in a marketing/PR role for a cardiac hospital in Arizona, he discovered his love for collecting, repairing, and selling vintage Gillette razors. Matt founded Razor Emporium, a vintage wet shaving supply company, in 2009 after a merger at the hospital and has been in business for over a decade now. He works and lives in Arizona with his wife and their two children.
Sheela Marshall is a real estate agent and the owner & founder of Tequila Sheela, an organic, small-batch, 100% agave tequila company. Born and raised in India, she moved to the United States 40 years ago and attended Boston College. She got married, had 2 daughters, got divorced, and moved to Dallas with her children to work in accounting, where she met her best friend and business partner, Natalie. After a battle with cancer, Sheela met and married her current husband Brooke, and they, along with Natalie, started Tequila Sheela. The company launched in India then in Texas, where it is now the official tequila of the Texas Rangers and has won numerous awards, including a double gold and 2 silver medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Cid Bullens is a two-time Grammy nominated singer, songwriter, and performer who has been in the music industry for over 40 years. He served as backup vocalist for Elton John, Rod Stewart, Bob Dylan, and more, as well as sang on the 1978 Grease soundtrack. He retreated from the music business in the 1980s, got married, and had 2 daughters. After reemerging onto the music scene, his youngest daughter Jessie died in 1996, which led Cid to write and record a collection of unfiltered songs based on his experience that came out in 1999 on Somewhere Between Heaven and Earth. Cid continued writing, recording, and performing both individually and with others in the industry until taking another break in 2011 to transition from female to male and become who he truly is. He has since debuted a one wo/man show entitled Somewhere Between: Not an Ordinary Life, which won Best One-Person Show of 2016; has written and recorded more albums, including the intimate and inspiring Walkin' Through This World; and has been featured in multiple documentaries. Cid now lives with his wife Tanya Rubinstein in Maine, close to his daughter Reid and four grandchildren.
Steve Riley is the Executive Editor of the Houston Chronicle. Originally from small-town Nettleton, Mississippi, he graduated from the University of Mississippi with a B.S. in Journalism in 1980. He worked at 3 newspapers in Mississippi before moving to Raleigh, North Carolina, where he worked at The News & Observer for over 30 years. In 2017, Steve moved and began working at the Houston Chronicle. He has won dozens of state and national journalism awards, including 2 Associated Press Sports Editors Triple Crown Awards, a Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award Grand Prize, and 2 Pulitzer Prize finalists. Steve and his wife have two children and live in Houston, Texas.
Bryan Escobedo, a fifth generation Texan and the son of an immigrant, joined the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17 and worked as a combat engineer on three back to back tours in the Middle East. Following an accident, he returned home, was awarded The Purple Heart, and went on to attend Houston Community College and the University of Houston, earning a B.A. in Communications with two Minors in Philosophy and Psychology. Bryan has volunteered and worked for numerous organizations including Lone Star Veterans Association and The Mission Continues; he now works tirelessly for veterans, immigrants, and underprivileged communities as well as oversees social work, community leadership, and wellness programming at Combined Arms in Houston, Texas.
Avery Lalumandier and Hayden Mintzer are sisters and daughters of Rand Mintzer, the creator and co-host of THNX: A Feelgood Podcast. Avery co-hosts the show from New York City, where she has lived since graduating from New York University. Hayden, a high school student, lives in Houston with Rand and their loving mom, Andrea. They share why this Election Day matters and why everyone needs to vote. Listen to the end for an inspirational jam session!
Brent Spiner, actor, singer, and musician, is best known for his roles as Data in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Dr. Brackish Okun in Independence Day. He won the Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Data. Brent implores everyone to focus on what's happening on earth and vote!
Steve Riley is the Executive Editor at the Houston Chronicle. After graduating from the University of Mississippi, he worked at The News & Observer in Raleigh, North Carolina for over 30 years before finding his home in Houston, Texas. Steve discusses the importance of everyone exercising their right to vote, even in a pandemic.
Judge Ravi Sandill presides over the 127th District Court in Harris County, Texas. Born in Toronto, Canada to Indian immigrants, he moved around the US and the world once his father joined the US military. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin for undergrad and the University of Houston for law school, he clerked for Justice Murray Cohen on the Texas First Court of Appeals. Following two battles with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Ravi and his wife Kelly adopted their son Asher from Guatemala. Shortly after, Ravi was asked to run as a judge in Harris County and has been on the bench since.
Cidny Bullens is a two-time Grammy nominee, songwriter, performer, activist, and speaker originally from Massachusetts. With 45 years as a rock star under his belt, he explains what is at stake in this election and why everyone should vote.
Kat Creech, originally from Wharton, Texas, started Kat Creech Events, now a nationally recognized event planning firm, in 2010. Prior, she got her Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston and worked at both the Hard Rock Cafe and House of Blues. She also began Recovery Houston, a non-profit that assists those affected by natural disasters, in 2017. Kat lives with her husband Alan and their children in Houston, Texas.
Paula Goodhart is a former Harris County Criminal Court at Law Judge and a current defense attorney. After graduating from the University of Texas and going to law school at the University of Houston, she worked as Assistant District Attorney and prosecutor. Paula lives in Houston with her husband Craig and their children. She encourages everyone, especially women, to vote!
Carl Sedita is a native Houstonian and has been a member of the Houston Police Department for 23 years. After 10 years of being a patrol officer, Carl received his open water, advanced open water, rescue diver, and public safety diver certifications and has been a search and recovery diver as well as an HPD patrol supervisor for the last 13 years. He and Patti, his wife of 23 years, live with their two sons Sam and Jack in Houston.
Maddie Parrish is a professional dancer from Franklin, Tennessee. She graduated from New York University's Tisch Dance and now lives in New York, New York. She encourages everyone to vote and make sure friends and family do too.
Mana Yegani is an immigration attorney in Houston, Texas. She got her undergraduate degree in biology from North Carolina State University before going to Louisiana State University for law school, where she started the International Law Society. A daughter of immigrants, she focuses on family separation, deportation, and ICE holds, just to name a few. She lives with her husband, Jed Silverman, and their daughter in Houston, Texas.
Mana Yegani is an immigration attorney in Houston, Texas. She went to North Carolina State University for her undergraduate degree and went to law school at Louisiana State University. She explains the importance of Election Day and casting a vote.
Maddie Parrish, originally from Franklin, Tennessee, is a professional dancer who lives in New York, New York. After graduating from New York University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, she has spent two years as a touring dancer, actor, and singer. Most recently, Maddie played Peter Pan and was part of the ensemble for the national tour of Finding Neverland.
Guy Schwartz is a prolific artist and musician who lives in Houston, Texas, and even ran as a non-partisan candidate for president in 2016. This year, he explains why it's important to vote, no matter who for.
Victor Cobos is a general surgeon from West Texas. He went to the University of Texas for an undergraduate degree in physics, then went on to complete his pre-med education at the University of North Texas. After going to medical school at the University of Texas, he completed his general surgery residency at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Victor has been practicing general surgery at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital for the last 21 years and lives in Denton, Texas with his two sons.
Jesse McClure went to UNC Chapel Hill for undergrad, The University of Texas for law school, and now serves as judge of the 339th district court of Harris County in Houston, Texas. He gives his motivation for why it's important to vote.
Joanna Stingray and her sister wandered from a group tour in the USSR and ended up in an underground Rock & Roll venue following a bump in the road in her own musical career. From that moment forward, Joanna became the biggest benefactor of Russian Rock; she smuggled instruments into the country and smuggled the music out. She exposed the US to Soviet Rock and evolved into a respected performer and personality in the US and USSR. Joanna's new book, coauthored with her daughter Madison, Red Wave: An American in the Soviet Music Underground will be released September 22, 2020.
Jack Cagle has served as county commissioner for Harris County Precinct 4, which represents 1.3 million residents, since 2011. Prior, he graduated from Rice University and Baylor Law School and was a county court judge for 11 years. Jack lives in Houston, Texas with his wife, Janet, and their three children. He describes what VOTE means to him.
Felix Lugo is a native Houstonian and a marathon runner, coach, and organizer. Halfway through his senior year of high school in 1974, he got married and joined the army, traveling to Oklahoma and later North Carolina to become a paratrooper. He was able to finish high school, then went on to paralegal school and began working in a law office. Felix began running, then got more and more involved with Houston FIT, a running club. He is best known for carrying an American flag during over half of his over 50 marathons! Felix lives in Houston, Texas with his wife of 47 years, Sylvia, and their 4 kids and 12 grandchildren.
Chris Tritico went to Sam Houston State University, studied law at South Texas College of Law, and is now a criminal defense attorney based out of Houston, Texas, where he lives with his wife and three children. He explains why it's so important to vote, especially in this election.
Juan Carlos Asse has been a personal trainer for the last fifteen years. He owns Zen Fitness, a personal training studio, in Gainesville, Florida, where he promotes and educates people about eating a plant-based diet. Juan has directed and produced three documentary films, including the multiple award winning Unsupersize Me.
Sandra Menzies Ahlhorn is the co-founder of Books Between Kids, a non-profit organization that puts books in the hands of children that are most in need. Born in South Africa and moved to the United States at 7, Sandra has lived in Texas since she was 16. She earned a business degree from the University of Texas and worked in Human Resources, and she and her husband bought a printing business in 2001. They live in Houston with their daughter, who will be starting college Fall 2020.
Robert Goyen, a native Texan, is a race director for Trail Racing Over Texas, one of the largest trail running companies in the country, and owns The Summit Shop, a site to buy and sell new and used running gear. Rob began distance running after battling addiction and obesity for years and getting sober in 2012. A business-driven and service-focused man, he went to the University of Houston and concentrates on his community when making business decisions. Also a family man, Rob lives in Houston with his wife, son, and daughter.
Ciro Lampasas was born and raised in Houston, Texas and went on to Sam Houston State University. After not getting a job in the field he expected, Ciro began working with some cousins throughout the city and realized his love for working with food. He opened Ciro's Italian Grill, a local favorite, that has been around for 35 years now. Ciro, his wife, and their children live in Houston.
Keri Blakinger, originally from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, graduated from Cornell University. She covered local government for the Ithaca Times and breaking news for the New York Daily News. At the Houston Chronicle, she covered breaking news, prisons, and the death penalty. She is currently writing for the Marshall Project, a news organization that covers all aspects of the criminal justice system. Her work has been featured in the Washington Post, VICE, The New York Daily News, and on NBC. Keri has also been interviewed by NPR and has her first book coming out on St. Martins Press.
Guy Schwartz is indescribable; he is a musician, bandleader of several bands including Z-Rocks and The New Jack Hippies, respected guitar and bass player, prolific recording artist, songwriter, videographer, music journalist, and advocate for local Houston musicians, showcased by his work on South by Due East. He has been dubbed a musical chameleon because his music pays respect to influences from folk, zydeco, and jam bands, just to name a few. The list of artists he's played with and stages he's graced is unmatched -- and he's even run for president. Houston, a multicultural melting pot, seems an appropriate place to call home for Guy, who has matured into a musician who's absorbed all genres of American music and made them his own.
Angela Sugarek has been a teacher, principal, and is now the CEO of York Academy Regional Charter School in Pennsylvania. After graduating from Eastern New Mexico University and the University of Texas at Austin, she has had an extremely successful career, receiving accolades such as Campus Teacher of the Year in two school districts and 2015 Texas Elementary Principal of the Year. Her interview is especially important because her story was one of the motivating factors for starting THNX: A Feelgood Podcast. Angela and her wife Carol are happily married with two sons.
Marc Carter presided over the 228th Judicial District Court in Harris County, (Houston), Texas for 16 years. While he was on the bench he created the first Veterans Court in Texas, which, along with many other accomplishments in criminal justice reform, led to him receiving numerous local, state, and national awards and honors. Marc received his undergraduate degree form the University of Texas and his law degree from Texas Southern University. He also obtained the rank of captain in the Army. He presently engages in the private practice of law in Houston, Texas. He is married with two daughters and one grandchild.
Rodica Gonzalez is an accomplished violinist who has been playing since she was four. Originally from Romania, she earned a masters degree in violin performance from Rice University. Rodica has been a member of the first violin section of the Houston Symphony since 1990, toured internationally, and performed at Carnegie Hall more than once. In addition, she teaches at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas, where she lives with her husband, Robert, and their son, Matthew. Watch Rodica perform by searching her name on YouTube!
Pastor Ashley Dellagiacoma is a native Houstonian who studied Spanish Studies at Texas Lutheran University and attended Luther Seminary, a seminary for the Evangelical Lutheran Church. She served as a Vicar for the Christ Lutheran Church of Brenham, Texas and the Youth and Education Minister of the Abiding Love Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas. She is presently the pastor at Kindred, located in the Montrose area of Houston. Her Reconciling in Christ community takes pride in being one of the most diverse in Houston.
Michael Wiesenthal is a native Houstonian and a third generation haberdasher. After graduating from Lamar High School, he earned a degree in business from the University of Houston. His uncle and late father, Milton and Harold Wiesenthal, founded Harold's in the Heights, known for treating all customers like royalty. Michael carries this compassion in his business, MWiesenthal, which he opened after selling Harold's in 2012. He and his two children still live in Houston.
Van G. Garrett hails from Wharton, Texas. He is a poet, novelist, musician, teacher, and photographer; he's a rare artist because he excels in every medium that he chooses. While a podcast series could be solely dedicated to his travels, creations, inspirations, and the interesting people he has met along the way, we were lucky enough to talk to him on a January evening about someone who helped become the person he is today. Please listen all the way through for a special treat at the end.
The Honorable Jason Luong tells us the story of his journey from Vietnam to the United States and gives thanks to one of the many people who exhibited selflessness and kindness throughout his life. He then follows Rand's lead in thanking more than one person. (Note from Rand: Jason can thank as many people as he wants!) Jason is a District Court judge in Houston, Texas, where he presides over criminal cases. Before getting elected to the bench, Jason was a big firm attorney, prosecutor, and defense attorney. He and his wife Carol, a former marine, have three children.
Rand, the creator and co-host of THNX, gives thanks to the person who counseled him when he was failing out of college and it appeared his life was going nowhere. He proceeds to break one of the rules of the podcast by thanking more than one person, but it makes for an interesting listen. Rand Mintzer lives in Houston, Texas where he is a criminal defense attorney, selling author, podcast host, and husband to Andrea. They are the adoring parents of their two daughters Avery and Hayden.