This is the Panhandle: Recent Episodes
Amarillo Area Foundation
The top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle is filled with amazing people and places. This podcast will introduce you to those people as they share their stories of how they are making their communities better.
In this episode, Raul Rodarte Shuto sits down with Julie Winters, Executive Director of Aspire: A Mindful Place, to discuss the growing need for accessible mental health support in rural Texas Panhandle communities.
Julie shares her journey through years of service with Hutchinson County United Way, the personal experiences that shaped her passion for this work, and how Aspire is helping bring compassionate behavioral health services closer to home.
Together, they explore the realities of rural mental health, the importance of community collaboration, and how Aspire is working to create new pathways for healing and support in Hutchinson County.
In this episode of This is the Panhandle, host Raul Rodarte Soto sits down with Blake Siebrecht of BOOM Adventures (Brothers of Our Military Adventures) to explore how the organization is creating purpose, connection, and healing for veterans, first responders, and their families across the Texas Panhandle.
Blake shares how transitioning out of service can leave many searching for identity and mission, and how BOOM Adventures helps fill that gap through outdoor experiences, community events, and peer-to-peer connection. The organization serves not only veterans and first responders but also Gold Star families, building a powerful sense of extended family and support.
Through initiatives like outdoor trips, community service projects, and events for families, BOOM creates spaces where individuals can reconnect, open up, and find encouragement—often in ways that feel more natural than traditional support systems. From providing bikes to foster children to helping families impacted by disasters, their work continues to ripple throughout the region.
Blake also shares the organization's long-term vision of building a retreat space for service members and their families, along with a powerful message for those who may be struggling: keep going, reach out, and remember—you matter.
In this episode, Broc Carter sits down with Brandi Reed, the CEO of Family Support Services, to talk about the life experiences that shaped her leadership—and the critical, behind-the-scenes work Family Support Services provides across the Texas Panhandle.
Brandi shares her journey from being born in Fresno, California, to growing up in tiny Logan, New Mexico, before moving to Amarillo to attend West Texas A&M University. After earning her degree in mass communications, she spent years serving others—working everywhere from nonprofit and community service roles to mission-driven work that fueled her passion for helping underserved populations.
Her career path eventually led her to the Amarillo Globe-News, then to Camp Fire USA, where she worked in development and events, deepening her nonprofit leadership experience. Brandi explains how motherhood, life transitions, and a strong pull toward advocacy ultimately brought her to Family Support Services—first as a volunteer hospital advocate, then as a staff member starting nearly two decades ago.
Broc and Brandi discuss how her early "hands-in-everything" role evolved into building prevention and education programming through evidence-based models, community partnerships, and competitive state and federal grants. Brandi breaks down what "evidence-based" really means and why fidelity to proven program models matters when working with families and youth.
Brandi also reflects on stepping into the CEO role at a pivotal time—especially after the agency's devastating 2020 fire and the long road to rebuilding. She shares the emotional loss of the organization's historical archives, the resilience of staff who kept services running (including the crisis hotline), and the community support that helped the organization continue serving survivors through both the fire and the pandemic.
The conversation closes with a look at the ongoing needs in Amarillo—especially around counseling access, prevention work in schools, support for veterans, and sustainable funding. Brandi emphasizes that there are many ways to support Family Support Services, and Broc highlights the organization's essential role in the region.
About the show: This Is the Panhandle is a production of the Amarillo Area Foundation. Learn more at amarilloareafoundation.org.
In this special edition of This Is the Panhandle, Broc Carter sits down with Amarillo Area Foundation CEO Keralee Clay for a wide-ranging conversation about her "long and windy road" back to the Texas Panhandle—and the leadership journey that brought her to the Foundation's top role. Keralee shares her deep Panhandle roots, her unexpected pivot into vocal performance and opera, and the steep learning curves that shaped her: managing the Amarillo Civic Center at a young age, moving to New York City with everything she owned in a Ryder truck, and building a career that blended leadership, HR, operations, IT, and people development.
Keralee reflects on living in New York through 9/11 and how that season strengthened her belief in shared humanity—something she also sees in the Panhandle during disasters and hard times. After starting a family, she and her husband made the "step-down" move from NYC to Denver, then home to Amarillo for community, quality of life, and the support of family (and affordable childcare realities).
Back in Amarillo, Keralee returned to the Civic Center before receiving a call from Clay Stribling that changed her path: joining the Amarillo Area Foundation first as Director of Operations, then advancing into senior leadership and ultimately CEO. She credits Clay with seeing potential in people and stretching them into new leadership spaces—something Keralee now aims to continue through culture-building, collaboration, and long-term systems work.
The conversation also highlights the Foundation's strategic shift toward big, complex quality-of-life challenges like broadband access/digital equity and childcare as infrastructure. Keralee explains why these aren't problems you can "grant-cycle" your way out of—and why convening, partnerships, and systemic change are essential. Looking ahead, she shares her priorities as CEO: listening, questioning assumptions, strengthening the Foundation's role across all 26 counties, and helping donors build place-based philanthropic legacies—especially as the "transfer of wealth" becomes a daily reality for many families.
Guest: Dr. Jamelle Connor, President of Amarillo College Host: Kimberly Anderson, Amarillo Area Foundation
Episode summary: Kimberly sits down with Dr. Jamelle Connor to meet the person behind the title. Jamelle shares her Florida upbringing (yes, baton twirling and boat days!), how high-school band shaped her life, and the long-story-short of finally dating and marrying her husband, Martin. She introduces us to their three very different (and very close) daughters, talks about falling in love with Amarillo's hidden-gem culture—from Comic Con to the symphony—and dishes restaurant favorites (Drunken Oyster, OHMS, The Big Texan). We also hear about Martin's new birding obsession, camping adventures in Palo Duro Canyon (first scorpion sighting!), Jamelle's love of reading (James Michener, Georgia O'Keeffe/Frank Lloyd Wright), and her current music kick (Blue October). Wrapping up, Jamelle shares her vision for AC: "Every student, every dream. One AC."—aligning programs, partnerships, and student supports to meet Amarillo's growing workforce and community needs.
In this episode of This is the Panhandle, host Kimberly Anderson sits down with Laura Storrs, CFO of the City of Amarillo, to uncover the person behind the title. Born and raised in Amarillo, Laura shares stories of her childhood, the influence of her parents, and how she discovered her passion for accounting. She opens up about her journey into motherhood through adoption, the blessings and challenges of raising a blended family, and the unique connection her husband—also adopted—brings to their home. Laura also reflects on her deep ties to community, from Rotary traditions to her new favorite hobby of leading a book club. As she looks toward retirement in 2026, she discusses her hopes for the city, her faith in what’s next, and her commitment to giving back. This heartfelt conversation highlights the human side of a leader devoted to her family, her faith, and her hometown.
In this episode of This is the Panhandle, Broc sits down with colleague Beth Gunn, Grant Program Officer at the Amarillo Area Foundation. Beth shares her personal journey—from starting with the foundation through CYD, to leading scholarship programs, and now focusing on education grants.
Together, they explore the concept of Opportunity Youth—young people ages 16–24 who are disconnected from education or the workforce—and why addressing their needs is critical for the future of the Texas Panhandle. Beth unpacks local research, the challenges of tracking this population, and the values-driven insights gathered directly from youth voices.
Listeners will hear how collaboration among schools, workforce boards, foster care, and nonprofits is reshaping how the community supports these young people. From summits to policy changes, Beth highlights the Foundation’s role in convening partners, funding innovative solutions, and shifting narratives about what young people truly want: connection, meaning, and the chance to make a difference.
Beth also shares the personal motivation behind her work, revealing how her own experiences inform her passion for helping others navigate systems and access opportunity.
In this inspiring episode of This is the Panhandle, host Kimberly Anderson sits down with Dr. Deidre Parish, the new superintendent of Amarillo ISD. While many know her for her impressive career in education—including two doctorates and leadership roles from rural districts to large urban schools—this conversation goes deeper, uncovering the personal side of Dr. Parish.
From her Lubbock roots to her early teaching days, Dr. Parish shares the winding path that led her from biology research labs to public school classrooms, and eventually to district leadership. Along the way, she opens up about her family’s deep ties to education, her love of music and fine arts, her work as a certified yoga instructor, and the life lessons she learned from her biggest supporters—her grandparents.
We also meet the rest of her family: her husband of 33 years, Bud, and their two daughters, both educators themselves, carrying forward the family legacy. Dr. Parish talks candidly about her hopes for Amarillo ISD, her vision of the district as a “destination” for students and educators, and why collaboration with the community is key to student success.
This episode is full of heart, wisdom, and a reminder that great leaders are shaped as much by their passions and relationships as by their résumés.
Listen in to learn:
- How Dr. Parish’s background in science and fine arts shapes her leadership
- Why she believes collaboration is the secret to strong schools and communities
- The personal routines and hobbies that keep her grounded in a demanding role
- Her vision for Amarillo ISD’s future as a premier destination for education in the Panhandle
🎙️ This is the Panhandle —
In this very special episode, host Broc Carter sits down with Amy Lovell and her daughter Mattie Kate (MK) Lovell for the first-ever mother-daughter conversation on This is the Panhandle. Amy and MK share a deeply personal story about facing Amy’s unexpected breast cancer diagnosis and the journey that followed — one marked by early detection, tough choices, family support, and hard-won hope.
Amy, a longtime advocate for nonprofits and co-founder of The Panhandle Gives, opens up about her life in the Panhandle, her work, and how a routine mammogram led to a stage-zero breast cancer diagnosis. Together, she and MK discuss how the news reshaped their family’s plans, the emotional weight of choosing treatments, and why early detection saved Amy’s life.
MK, a third-generation Red Raider and former state champion runner, shares what it was like to stand beside her mom during treatment and how the experience changed her outlook on preventative care and family.
This heartfelt conversation is a powerful reminder of the impact of early screenings, the strength of open family dialogue, and the importance of showing up for each other when life changes overnight.
Key Takeaways:
- Why annual mammograms matter — early detection can be lifesaving.
- Navigating the emotional reality of a cancer diagnosis, even when prognosis is strong.
- How family support, honest conversations, and shared decisions make all the difference.
- Encouragement for other mothers and daughters to prioritize proactive health.
If you listen to one episode this season, let it be this one — and share it with the women in your life.
In this inspiring episode, Broc Carter sits down with Filiberto Avila—known to many as Fili—a Spearman, Texas native currently wrapping up a Fulbright fellowship in Madrid, Spain. Fili shares his incredible journey from growing up in a rural Panhandle town to becoming student body president at West Texas A&M University, participating in the Rogers LEAD program, and ultimately teaching university-level students in Spain.
Fili reflects on:
- His academic and leadership experiences at WTAMU
- The impact of the Rogers LEAD program and student government
- Helping launch the Market on Tierra Blanca food pantry in Canyon
- Life and learning in Madrid as a Fulbright Fellow
- Teaching international students and promoting cultural exchange
- Why he’s returning home to teach high school English in Spearman
- His dreams of serving in the U.S. Foreign Service
This conversation is a testament to the power of small-town roots, public service, and global perspective. Fili’s story is a reminder that great things can start in the Panhandle—and make their way around the world.
Resources Mentioned:
- Learn about The Fulbright Program
In this episode, host Raul Rodarte Suto sits down with John Wittler, Executive Director of Ogallala Commons, to explore his inspiring journey from growing up on a farm in southeast Colorado to leading a multi-state nonprofit focused on revitalizing rural communities.
John shares his unconventional path—opting out of college to pursue entrepreneurship, finding meaning through work and family, and eventually joining Ogallala Commons to empower youth and small towns across the High Plains. He discusses the value of integrating work and life, the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset, and how his personal philosophy around meaning (inspired by Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning) influences his leadership.
The episode also delves into:
- The mission and multi-state reach of Ogallala Commons
- Key program areas: leadership development, natural resource stewardship, and local food systems
- What it means to build “life-giving” rural communities
- The importance of non-traditional education and youth mentorship
- And yes—why some people know him simply as “Sandals”
This is a heartfelt, insightful conversation about leadership, learning, and living with purpose—whether you're in boots or Birkenstocks.
🌐 Learn more about Ogallala Commons at ogallalacommons.org 📍 Brought to you by the Amarillo Area Foundation.
In this episode of This is the Panhandle, host Kimberly Anderson sits down with Don Powell to explore the person behind his prominent titles and accomplishments. While Don’s résumé includes leadership roles such as President & CEO of First National Bank of Amarillo, FDIC Chairman, and federal coordinator for Gulf Coast recovery efforts, the conversation focuses on his personal journey, values, and lessons learned along the way.
In this episode of This Is the Panhandle, host Kimberly Anderson sits down with Doug Loomis—recently retired superintendent of Amarillo ISD—to explore his journey from growing up in Dalhart to leading one of the region’s largest school districts. Doug shares personal stories about his upbringing, football days, and family life; reflects on the lessons that shaped his leadership and advocacy for public education; and offers insights on community collaboration. Midway through, Vice President of Community Investment Laura Escobar joins to outline grant opportunities through the Amarillo Area Foundation. Listeners will come away with inspiration on building win-win relationships, supporting local nonprofits, and sustaining a thriving Panhandle community.
About the Guest Doug Loomis recently retired after 39 years with Amarillo ISD, having served at every level from teacher to superintendent. A Dalhart native, he deeply appreciates small-town roots, has a passion for public education as a leveling force, and is committed to empathy-driven leadership. Doug is joined in life by his wife, Gisele, and their children, Jordan and Braydan , all of whom feature in heartfelt anecdotes throughout this conversation.
🎧 Episode Summary: In this episode, host Raul Rodarte Suto sits down with Ryan Pennington, Executive Director of the Refugee Language Project. Ryan shares his journey—from growing up in Washington State to studying linguistics and Bible translation at Dallas Baptist University, then serving as a missionary in remote villages of Papua New Guinea. He reflects on the challenges of first‐contact language work, the power of cultural humility, and the life-changing lessons learned on that mountain ridge. After returning to Amarillo in 2016, Ryan channeled those insights into welcoming displaced families, launching “The Place” community center, and expanding the Refugee Language Project’s English classes, interpreting services, and cross-cultural trainings—all driven by the belief that language is the doorway to genuine welcome and community flourishing.
📌 Resources & Mentions:
- Refugee Language Project: https://refugeelanguage.org
- “The Place” Multicultural Community Center
- Panhandle Gives Campaign: https://panhandlegives.org
📣 Call to Action: If you believe everyone has something to offer, consider volunteering as an English tutor, interpreter, or cultural ambassador through the Refugee Language Project. Subscribe to This Is the Panhandle for more stories of community, connection, and the surprising lessons we learn when we truly welcome our neighbors.
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode of This is the Panhandle, host Kimberly Anderson sits down with longtime friend and community leader Anette Carlisle. Known for her extensive service in education and community development, Anette shares insights into her early life in Borger, Texas, her academic journey in zoology, and her passion for nature and birding. The conversation delves into her personal experiences, including her family life and the values that drive her commitment to public service.
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode of This is the Panhandle, host Raul Rodarte Suto reconnects with longtime friend and community leader Myron Sims. They delve into their shared history in Amarillo, reflecting on early educational experiences and the challenges faced during their formative years. Myron shares his journey from uncertain college beginnings to his current role as a Career Pathway Supervisor at Amarillo College. He discusses his work in guiding youth through educational and career opportunities, emphasizing the importance of support systems for students, especially those from foster care backgrounds. The conversation highlights the significance of community involvement, mentorship, and the transformative power of education in shaping individual paths.
Episode Spotlight: Glenn Backus and The Market on Tierra Blanca
Glenn Backus, director of The Market on Tierra Blanca in Canyon, Texas, shares how this innovative grocery-store-style food pantry is transforming the fight against food insecurity in Randall County. Located at 3900 South Tierra Blanca Drive, the Market offers a dignified, client-choice experience for individuals and families—98% of whom live at or below the poverty line.
Highlights:
- Empowers clients through monthly credits to shop for their own groceries
- Serves a diverse clientele including seniors, students, and families
- Builds community while upholding dignity and respect
- Partners with local organizations to expand food access
Store Hours: Tuesdays: 3–7 PM | Fridays: 9–12 PM
Get Involved:
- Donate via St. Helen’s Outreach website
- Volunteer (ages 5–87 welcome)
- Advocate for local hunger relief
Guided by Mother Teresa’s belief in the dignity of every person, Glenn and his team are redefining what food assistance can look like.
Kristen Moudy, Executive Director of the Wheeler Chamber and EDC, shares her journey from Dallas back to her hometown of Wheeler, Texas, to invest in rural community development. In this episode, she talks about improving quality of life through collaborative projects like downtown revitalization and the Tom Britt Memorial Park, while addressing common misconceptions about Economic Development Corporations (EDCs). Kristen also explores how small towns can attract and retain young talent, participate in regional initiatives like The Panhandle Gives, and harness community spirit to build a vibrant future. This conversation highlights the power of local leadership and the value of rural roots.
Kullen Sorrels, a third-year veterinary student at Texas Tech, shared his journey from Dalhart, Texas, to veterinary school. He highlighted the rigorous first year, which involves 22-23 hours of classes per week, and the hands-on experience that begins in the first semester. Colin emphasized the importance of grit and adaptability. He also discussed the unique community at Texas Tech, where students support each other through the challenging program. Peyton Priest, Associate Director of Development, highlighted the school's focus on rural and regional veterinary needs, its non-traditional student demographic, and the impact of the mobile veterinary unit funded by the Louise Bowers Splints Foundation. Both speakers expressed confidence in the readiness of the first graduating class for practice.
The podcast introduces three new co-hosts from the Amarillo Area Foundation - Kimberly Anderson, Kevin Friemel, and Raul Rodarte Suto - who will bring diverse perspectives to sharing stories about the Texas Panhandle. The hosts discuss the unique characteristics of their region, highlighting its pioneering spirit, philanthropic nature, innovative problem-solving, and rich community talent across various sectors including arts, agriculture, and nonprofit work. They emphasize the Panhandle's strength lies in its people's ability to come together, adapt to challenges, and support each other, while also hoping to change external perceptions about the region by showcasing its depth, creativity, and remarkable community-driven initiatives.
Since the historic fires raged across our area, Hemphill County Judge Lisa Johnson has been right on the frontline of the disaster. She recently sat down with us to discuss the inside perspective. In the episode, she shares the behind-the-scenes workings of the largest fire in Texas history and how she worked to keep her community safe in a very turbulent time.
To give to the Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund, GO HERE
This week we sit down with Mary Coyne with Panhandle Behavioral Health Alliance. She shares what PBHA is working on, what the data is showing, and how to increase mental health access in this Texas Panhandle.
Learn more about PBHA: CLICK HERE
Learn more about Panhandle Mental Health Guide: CLICK HERE
www.PanhandleMentalHealthGuide.org
This week, we sit down with Dr. Amy Stark, Texas Tech Physicians Psychiatrist. Dr. Stark talks about how substance abuse can be detrimental to mental health. Her goal is to break down the stereotypes regarding substance abuse.
Learn more about Dr. Stark here: CLICK HERE
This week, we sit down with Bobby Medford, a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Dallam-Hartley Counties Hospital District. Bobby talks about meeting the mental health needs in a rural setting. He shares how seniors have fared through the Covid 19 Pandemic and how they have settled into a new normal that can cause more problems in isolation.
Learn more about DHCHD HERE.
This week, we continue our mental health focus by talking with Family Support Services’, Jim Womack. Jim talks about how FSS is meeting the heightened demands for mental health services since the start of the covid 19 pandemic. He shares how FSS began using telehealth services to meet the needs in the top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle.
To learn more about FSS: CLICK HERE or call 806.342.2500
This week we sit down with Region 16’s Robin Terry. Since the start of the pandemic, educators and students have seen rising numbers of mental health concerns. Robin shares what Region 16 has seen and how schools are accommodating the increased demand.
To learn more about Region 16 CLICK HERE
Episode note, due to an upgrade in Region 16’s website, the Mental Health Moments* Podcast is not available at this time.
This week we start our special episodes about mental health. Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month and it’s a focus area for our organization, we thought it would be the perfect time to talk about our partnership with Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. Dr. Amanda Tinsley-Mathias sits down with us to talk about this collaborative care model of mental health resources.
More about Meadows Mental Health Institute: https://mmhpi.org/
Tune in to the entire series!
This week we sit down with Dr. Guy Loneragan, Dean of the Texas Tech School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Loneragan gives a recap about the first semester of the new school located in the Harrington Regional Medical Campus. Students interested in TTUSVM can get more information HERE.
This week we sit down with Zack Wilson, Executive Director of the High Plains Food Bank. Zack has been at the HPFB for 17 years and has been at the helm for 11. He shares with us what HPFB does, how they do it, and how you can help! Since the COVID 19 pandemic began, the necessity of food programs has become vital for many of our neighbors. How is HPFB keeping up with the demand? Zack shares those details and gives a glimpse into the future of food banking!
Learn more about High Plains Food Bank HERE
This week we sit down with legendary news personality turned entrepreneur, Lisa Schmidt. She talks about her days behind the news desk and why it was time to leave. She started a new venture called All The Things for You, a box subscription service. Listen and subscribe.
More about All the Things: CLICK HERE
This week we sit down with Wendy Taylor, Executive Director of Don Harrington Discovery Center and Wildcat Bluff Nature Center. Wendy talks about the merger of these two organizations and what it means for our community. The singular organization now brings the Earth sciences and STEM sciences together under one organization. For more information on Don Harrington Discovery Center, CLICK HERE
For more information on Wildcat Bluff Nature Center, CLICK HERE
This week we sit down with AmTech Career Academy’s principal, Jay Barrett. Amarillo ISD’s new AmTech campus is connecting students to career pathways while helping them achieve industry certifications to start moving towards their dream careers. Jay has been an educator for 37 years and he now calls himself the “AmTech Cheerleader”. The campus has garnered national attention for innovation and acceleration. In the episode, you’ll learn what career paths students can choose. To learn more about AmTech Career Academy, GO HERE!
This week we sit down with City of Amarillo’s Managing Director and CIO, Rich Gagnon. The city is working with Region 16 to provide high-speed internet access to a broader population in our community. If the pandemic has shown us anything, it’s the disparity that comes from lack of access. Rich shares his personal reasons for working so hard on this project, but also why it makes economic sense for the city.
This week we sit down with Michael Evans, Ph.D., R.N., FAAN, Dean of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing. Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a spotlight on the profession of nursing. Dr. Evans shares how that has affected nursing students and enrollment in nursing programs for TTU. For more information on Texas Tech’s School of Nursing GO HERE
This week we sat down with Chris McGilvery, founder of Leaders Readers Network. Chris has a passion for early childhood literacy and the organization he founded is working to increase children’s access to books and mastery of reading. In 2021, Leaders Readers Network focused on children’s books that celebrated the diversity of children and was featured in a New York Times article, read more here: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/04/neediest-cases/bringing-books-to-children-that-speak-their-language.html
To learn more about Leaders Readers Network, GO HERE
This week we talk to Jim Whitton, about literacy among our youngest neighbors. His passion to see kids read was sparked by a conference regarding the first 5 years of children’s lives. His passion has turned into action by working with StoryBridge and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to put books in the hands of birth through 5 year-olds in Potter and Randall Counties.
If you would like to donate to StoryBridge’s campaign, you can do that here: GIVE HERE
www.texaspanhandle100club.org
The 100 Club is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization fully membership/donation supported with the mission to:
- Provide immediate financial assistance to the families of certified peace officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty
- Provide immediate financial assistance to certified peace officers and firefighters injured in the line of duty and unable to work
- Purchase life-protecting and lifesaving equipment for law enforcement and firefighting agencies that cannot be secured through budgeted funds.
Just as our lives have not been easy, theirs have not been either. Many of them don’t feel as safe as they once did in serving and protecting. We have seen the need for more (and better) life-protecting and lifesaving equipment thus increasing the need for more funding. Please take a few minutes to watch this quick video about the 100 Club story https://youtu.be/D5D2QipL4D8.
Will you join me in standing behind the men and women behind the badge with an annual membership and a year-end donation to help with lifesaving and life-protecting equipment?
Join online www.texaspanhandle100club.org/membership
and/or make a donation to help with lifesaving equipment for our area first responders:
Firefighters Equipment Fund https://square.link/u/v53sG4Ns
Law Enforcement Equipment Fund https://square.link/u/eVgGyHGQ
In the Season 4 premier we talk with Jackie Pearson, 2018 Chairperson of the Amarillo Area Foundation. Jackie was instrumental in advocating for #ThePanhandleGives and helping the campaign get off the ground. She rolls off the board this year, so we wanted to capture her “behind-the-scenes" view and her passion for philanthropy in the Texas Panhandle.
Do not forget to give to your favorite organization beginning Monday, November 22 through November 30. Give online at www.thepanhandlegives.org!
This week’s season 3 finale is a conversation with Panhandle PBS’s Karen Welch about the new series, Living While Black. The series is Thursday nights on Panhandle PBS and showcases interviews from some of our Black neighbors. We also talk with one of the featured interviewees, Ms. Melodie Graves. Ms. Graves, a TEDx featured speaker and Amarillo native, shares her perspective of living while Black in Amarillo and how she is hoping to create a better place for her child through activism.
For more information on the project:
https://www.panhandlepbs.org/livingwhileblack/
This week, we sit down with Anna Lisa Ramos, owner of Cocina on the Go! Ms. Ramos received the first loan from Communities Unlimited to purchase the food truck she currently uses. She is no stranger to our podcast; this is her second special episode, and we can’t wait for you to hear the exciting updates Anna Lisa shares.
Here’s more on Anna Lisa:
Cocina on the Go
Her first time on the podcast
This week, we sit down with Communities Unlimited, a new organization in our community, to learn about their various programs. Katy Parrish shares details of their first loan and how they plan to create self-sustainability throughout our region.
In this week’s episode, we sit down with newly-promoted No Limits No Excuses Program Officer, Kimberly Anderson. An Amarillo native and Palo Duro High School graduate, Kimberly currently serves on the Amarillo ISD School Board. We talk education and how Kimberly was never going to follow her mother into teaching but is now a self-confessed public education advocate!
This week we sit down with Spearman native and entrepreneur, Suzanne Bellsnyder. Ms. Bellsnyder had worked in Austin for decades but coming back to her roots proved to be a great place to raise a family and start a couple of new businesses. In the interview, Ms. Bellsnyder shares her view of this year’s legislative session and how a self-described policy wonk views policy for our area.
This week we sit down with Dr. Pam Kirby, a local Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Kirby talks about mental health in the era of COVID, what she is seeing in her practice, and what you can do to improve your mental health during a global pandemic.
Documents mentioned in the podcast:
Click HERE for American Psychological Association
This week we are sitting down with Dr. Scott Milton, Infectious Disease physician at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center, and the Public Health Authority with the City of Amarillo. We have a conversation about how the increased COVID cases affects our local hospitals, what that means for our community, and how you can help keep the infection rates down.
We sit down with Representative Ken King in this week’s episode. He talks about the upcoming legislative session and how the state is continuing to be impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Representative King shares why he loves his district and the work he’s done to make the Panhandle an even better place to live.
We sit down with Representative Four Price in this week’s episode. He talks about the upcoming legislative session and how the state is continuing to be impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Representative Price shares why he loves his district and the work he’s done for mental health legislation.
We sit down with Senator Kel Seliger in this week’s episode. He talks about the upcoming legislative session and how the state is continuing to be impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Senator Seliger shares why he loves his district and how he prioritized legislation to benefit our area.
On this week’s episode, we speak with Lucia Mendez Polston the Director of Community Engagement and Impact at Amarillo Area Foundation. Lucia recently moved from Washington D.C. back to her roots in the Texas Panhandle. We talk about her important work in D.C. and what she’ll be doing at the Foundation.
This week we sit down with Colonel Andrew Scott DeJesse, one of the Monuments men in the United States Army. As well, as an accomplished artist in his own right, Colonel DeJesse speaks about life in the Panhandle, and how growing
Andrew J. Brandt is a local author and entrepreneur living in Amarillo, Texas. Andrew has published several books that have catapulted him up the fiction lists on Amazon. He is also the owner of Phone Medic and various other companies in and around Amarillo.
In this episode, Andrew shares about his new book, set in the picturesque Palo Duro Canyon. Listen and subscribe for the latest episodes.
This week in our Season 2 finale, we talk with legendary girls' basketball coach, Joe Lombard. Coach Lombard shares about his time at Canyon High School, how he builds a team, and what skills he develops that will stay with the girls throughout their lives.
Joe’s son, Tate Lombard, joins him on the bench this year as an assistant coach. Coach Lombard shares what Tate has added to the team and the future of the girls’ basketball program at Canyon.
This week we sit down with Dr. Nick Gerlich, professor at West Texas A&M, and Route 66 enthusiast. Dr. Gerlich talks about how he ended up here and why he loves to call the Panhandle home.
We sit down with Crystal Moroney this week, the owner of Milk House Market in Friona, Texas. Crystal and her husband also are the owners of the Del Rio Dairy in Friona. They moved to Friona from the Phoenix area.
Crystal, who has a degree in fashion design and merchandising, talks about how the store, Milk House Market, came to be and how the community and region has responded since its opening in 2014. She also talks about life in Friona with her 3 kids.
More about Milk House Market:
Facebook Page: CLICK HERE
Shop Online: https://www.milkhousemarket.com/
This week we sit down with Amy Sheets, owner and designer at Marrs Makers, a fashion brand in New York. Amy grew up in Amarillo and is the granddaughter of legendary saddle maker, Bob Marrs. Amy is honoring the heritage of her grandparents with a new spin on tooled leather and western fashion.
Learn more about Marrs Markers:
Website: https://marrsmakers.com/
Email: amy@marrmakers.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/marrsmakers
Instagram: https://instagram.com/marrsmakers
This week we talk with Jeff Blackmon, owner of several local newspapers in the Texas Panhandle. About a year ago, The Hereford Brand announced it was going to shutter. Jeff and his wife, Angela, jumped at the opportunity to make the paper their flagship investment in our area. Jeff talks about how local newspapers are important to rural communities and why he’s working hard to make sure they have a strong future.
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
This week we sit down with Jill Goodrich, Executive Director of Opportunity School. She shares the mission and vision behind the program and why, after 50 years, Opportunity School is expanding in our community.
To learn more about Opportunity School go here: https://www.opportunityschool.com/
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
This week we sit down for a great discussion with Marcy McKay. In 2017, Marcy’s family lost their home in a fire. The aftermath resulted in an emotional breakdown, but it also helped her find her new path as a life coach. You will learn how Marcy overcame being stuck and how she moved from hurting to thriving.
To learn more about Marcy’s work, go here: https://marcymckay.com/
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
Aaron King has spent his entire life in the trucking industry. Together with his family, Aaron has developed several vertically aligned businesses that help the individual truckers in our area. Aaron has a real passion for each trucker and is in the process of creating a nonprofit to help them in times of crisis.
To learn more about Aaron's companies, you can go here:
https://www.deekingtrucking.com/
https://k3towing.com/
http://thetwiagency.com/
https://www.kingcountrytrailer.com/
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
Carlos Lopez grew up in Spearman, Texas and left the Panhandle for an amazing career in marketing and advertising in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. He worked for Dr. Pepper/Snapple, and JC Penney’s. He and his wife, Kathy, were looking for a way to get back to the Panhandle and opened a business, Little Bees Play House. Entrepreneurship is nothing new for Carlos - his mother has owned La Milpa tortilla factory for more than 20 years. This episode speaks to how Amarillo is attracting talented people to return to their roots.
More about Little Bees Play House:
Facebook: http://bit.ly/39eixki
Website: http://bit.ly/2vd5kct
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
Josh Butler and his wife, Allison, are the owners of Butler Benefits and Consulting in Amarillo. In this episode, we speak with Josh about a project he's working on to absolve $1,500,000 in medical debt for people in Potter and Randall Counties. You'll learn why he so passionate about this project and how it came to be.
You can give here: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/butlerbenefitstx/
More about Butler Benefits and Consulting:
Office: 806-350-3158
2800 Civic Circle Suite 200
Amarillo, TX 79109
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
This week we sit down with Wayne Craig, the Executive Director of Cactus Cares, the philanthropic arm of the employee-owned Cactus Feeders. Wayne gives background on Cactus Feeders, how the organization became employee-owned, and how Cactus Cares is working to strengthen the communities they serve.
To learn more: http://cactusfeeders.com/
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
This week we sit down with The Harrington House’s Board Chair, Dr. Sue Park, and Executive Director, Phyllis Rice. Both share how the former house of Don and Sybil Harrington was founded and why Mrs. Harrington chose to open her home for people to tour. To learn more about this historic home, log on to https://www.harringtonhousehistorichome.org/
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
This week we talk to Wendie Cook who is the Executive Director of the Citadelle Art Foundation in Canadian, Texas. She also serves on the Canadian City Council. Wendie shares her experience and how she got to the Panhandle, as well as information about the incredible collection of art on display at the Citadelle.
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
This special episode features three grants the Amarillo Area Foundation awarded in 2019 to combat homelessness in our area. We will hear from all three of the grant recipients and discuss how those funds will help our friends and neighbors who are dealing with homelessness.
This is just another way AAF is improving quality of life in the Texas Panhandle.
To submit your question for Questions from a Boot go here: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
Benny Barraza grew up in Mexico and came across the border when he was just a young boy. He talks about his days growing up in Borger, Texas “in the shadows”, making sure he didn’t draw attention to himself. He’s now a principal at Amarillo ISD. Learn more about Benny’s story and how he went from constant worry to an extremely successful elementary principal.
To submit Your Questions from The Boot: http://bit.ly/TITP_QFAB
This week we sit down with the Executive Director from Borger Inc., Katie Lingor. As the economic development corporation for the city of Borger, Katie talks about how Borger Inc. is investing in improving the quality of life. She shares what is happening now and the Boomtown Scholarship that was just announced in October.
More on Borger Inc.:
Web: CLICK HERE
To submit Your Questions from The Boot: CLICK HERE
We tried something new when we sat down with Jason Herrick for a live episode at Six Car Pub and Brewery to discuss the innovative model of #ThePanhandleGives
This week we sit down with Dr. Dan Posey who is working on a new initiative at West Texas A&M University in conjunction with Texas A&M. Veterinary Education, Research & Outreach is a new program that allows students interested in veterinary medicine to begin their education at the WTAMU campus and then finish the last 2 years at A&M in College Station.
Dr. Posey is from the Panhandle and after years of private practice then went on staff in College Station. He rose through those ranks and is excited to be the one who is tapped with bringing this new approach at WTAMU.
To learn more about VERO: CLICK HERE
To submit your Questions From The Boot CLICK HERE
Lo van Pham came to the US as a refugee from Laos. He assimilated very quickly and found a love of sports through Amarillo ISD’s schools. After college, Lo started at Western Builders as a project manager. His love of sports led him to an interesting “side hustle” as a Division 1 on-field official for the NCAA. In 2019’s Fall season, Lo was on the field at Camping World Kickoff Florida Gators v Miami Hurricanes as well as the Red River Shootout between Oklahoma University and the University of Texas. He recently sat down to talk with us about his life and how grateful he is to live in Amarillo.
To submit your Your Questions From The Boot: CLICK HERE
Julian Kitten is the Director of Community Development for the City of Amarillo. She sat down with us to talk about homelessness in Amarillo and the City’s new pilot program called Coming Home, a housing first model.Kitten’s passion for the homeless and her commitment to ensuring that the city receives all the funding possible gives the listener a sense that Amarillo’s homelessness issues can be eradicated.
More about Housing First:
Housing First is not Housing Only, it is a treatment program that has a housing component. Our rate of Chronic Homelessness is 34% (264 people) and that is a crisis - but solvable. NWTHS reported $8.3 million spent on visits to the emergency room by homeless individuals. We can dramatically reduce this by providing housing and supportive services that reduce the need for crisis services
We have many great homeless services providers who are doing and have done great things for years - this is another tool for the homeless population who have failed in other services.
Contacting Juliana
Phone: 806.378.3023
Email: Juliana.kitten@amarillo.gov
This is the season finale of “This is the Panhandle” and we have two guests this week. Earlier this year, there was news about the development of a hospital laundry service being built in the North Heights neighborhood on the former Inn of Amarillo lot, just off Amarillo Boulevard. We speak with two people working with this local, grassroots group to ensure this project comes to fruition.
Puff Niegos is a community volunteer, serving on several boards in the community and works in the family business. Puff’s vision is to see economic growth in all parts of Amarillo. She works tirelessly for the good of our community and region.
Bowden Jones is an Executive Vice President at FirstBank Southwest and is a product of the North Heights neighborhood. His passion to see this project to completion is personal as he has many family members who live and work in this historic neighborhood.
The second season is planned for late October. Subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode.
Nestled in the square, just off highway 287 in Claude, is a little coffee shop called The Burrow. This week we sit down with co-owner Leslie Burton and talk to her about why she and her business partner, Tessa Morrow, decided to make this space special while adding to the quality of life in Claude.
Leslie explains their philosophy and motto: Be Kind, why they are investing in their community, and the strategy behind this bold move. Listen and subscribe today!
More about The Burrow:
Instagram: @the Burrow116
Facebook: CLICK HERE
This week we sit down with Pampa Superintendent and Region 16 Superintendent of the Year, Tanya Larkin. She has been a lifelong resident of the Panhandle and has been in education for more than two decades.
Tanya talks about Pampa ISD’s innovative approach to teacher recruitment to create a competitive advantage, which is important in a time when there is a shortage of teachers. Her dedication to education is palatable. Listen and subscribe.
More on Pampa ISD:
Web: CLICK HERE
Twitter: @Pampaisd
Twitter: @PampaSchools
Facebook: CLICK HERE
All social Networks: #PampaProud
This week we sit down with Sridevi “Shree” Veeramachaneni, the Executive Director of Panhandle Behavioral Health Alliance. PBHA is working to enhance access to mental healthcare, as well as to mitigate the stigmas associated with mental health.
Shree moved to this country as an immigrant and has lived in the Amarillo area with her husband for more than 20 years, where they have raised their two daughters.
Learn more about PBHA and the work they are doing in the Texas Panhandle.
Contacting PBHA and Shree:
Email: CLICK HERE
Web: CLICK HERE
Dr. Tedd Mitchell, Chancellor of the Texas Tech System and President of the Health Sciences Center, talks with us about the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center and the newly approved Texas Tech School of Veterinary Medicine in Amarillo.
TTUHSC has been serving the needs of Panhandle for over two decades. The future TTU Veterinary School is slated to be built and open classes in 2021.
More about TTUHSC: CLICK HERE
More about the TTU Vet School: CLICK HERE
Dr. Walter Wendler, President of West Texas A&M University, sits down with us this week to talk about what the WT is doing to make students and our region successful. WTAMU was founded in 1910 and continues to be a phenomenal institution based in Canyon Texas.
Learn what's next for WTAMU, and how the university faculty and staff are innovating programs to impact our region.
More about WTAMU:
Web: CLICK HERE
Phone: 806-651-0000
This week we sit down with Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, President of Amarillo College. Dr. Lowery-Hart explains how AC has changed the way it meets the needs of its students.
AC's innovative approach has garnered national attention for the college. Dr. Lowery-Hart shares how the plan came to be, and how students have responded.
For more information about Amarillo College:
Web: CLICK HERE
Phone: 806.371.5000
This episode we sit down with Dr. Robert Riza, President of Clarendon College. Clarendon College in Clarendon TX has been meeting the needs of students in the eastern part of the Texas Panhandle since 1927. Creating diverse and innovative programs and highly competitive sports programs in Clarendon, Pampa, Childress, and Amarillo are the hallmarks of this institution.
Dr. Riza shares details of new initiatives the college has been working on and will be delivering this Fall.
More on Clarendon College:
Website: CLICK HERE
Phone: (806) 874-3571 (Clarendon)
Dr. Jud Hicks has been at Frank Phillips College for well over a decade and President of the institution since 2011. Frank Phillips college has campuses in Borger, Dalhart, Hereford, Dumas, and Perryton, and provides education to the northernmost parts of Texas.
Hicks and his faculty and staff work diligently to ensure student success. FPC partners with the other higher education institutions in the Panhandle to create the quality workforce needed to meet the demands of the Texas Panhandle.
More about Frank Phillips College:
Website: CLICK HERE
Phone: (806) 457-4200 (Borger)
The State of Higher Education: In this week’s special episode we sit down with Leeann Kossey Overstreet, the Program Officer for No Limits No Excuses (NLNE) - a program of the Amarillo Area Foundation. Leeann explains what NLNE is doing to ensure students in the Panhandle have what they need to be successful in higher education. She also describes how NLNE is using innovation to help students with their “Go: Plan.”
To learn more about NLNE:
Goplan.life
In this special episode, you'll hear from Anna Lisa Ramos the owner or FreshBox of Amarillo. This is a food catering business in Amarillo. In episode 3, Brady Clark mentioned the work of the PATH Fund and how the program is geared to help entrepreneurs be successful. Many have reached out to get more information about FreshBox. If you haven't listened to episode 3, the link is below.
FreshBox on the Web:
CLICK HERE
Episode 3:
CLICK HERE
We sit down with Crystal Moroney this week, the owner of Milk House Market in Friona, Texas. Crystal and her husband also are the owners of the Del Rio Dairy in Friona. They moved to Friona from the Phoenix area.
Crystal, who has a degree in fashion design and merchandising, talks about how the store, Milk House Market, came to be and how the community and region has responded since its opening in 2014. She also talks about life in Friona with her 3 kids.
More about Milk House Market:
Facebook Page: CLICK HERE
This week we sit down with Carol Lovelady. Many know her due to her tireless work for the betterment of the Amarillo community. Her civil service has deep roots and so does her history in Amarillo.
Now the Executive Director of the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, Carol is tasked with maintaining the rich history of our area. Learn why PPHM is the largest historical museum in Texas and how the museum came to be.
Carol also gives a rundown of all the important events at PPHM this summer.
More about PPHM:
Museum website: CLICK HERE
PPHM Event Calendar: CLICK HERE
This week we sit down with Alejandro Magallanes of Easy Math and Learning Lounge, an education technology company based in Amarillo, TX. Alejandro immigrated to the Panhandle when he was in junior high. He credits a high school “arch nemesis” for motivating his love of math.
Alejandro developed the app and resources to help high school teachers with math concepts. You’ll hear how that has exploded and how Alejandro is expanding his development efforts to accommodate college students as well.
More about Easy Math/Learning Lounge: EasyMath App: Click Here
Math is fly Album: Click Here
Teachers are Rockstars Podcast: Click Here
This week we sit down with Barbara Brannon, Executive Director of the Texas Plains Trail. Barbara explains the history of the 52-county region and her role in helping visitors to our area stay a little longer.
The Texas Panhandle is immersed with incredible history, and the Texas Plains Trail’s goal is to make sure that that history is preserved and shared with those who visit and live in our area.
Learn more about Texas Plains Trail here: Click here to open in a new window https://texasplainstrail.com/
Email Barbara: info@texasplainstrail.com
In this week’s episode we speak with Keith Brown, Executive Director of Opportunity Plan Inc (OPI). He explains the history and the significance OPI brings to our area and region. The goal is to help students achieve a higher education credential or degree.
Keith is no stranger to high education as he is the former director of the Alumni Association at West Texas A&M University. He is from Happy, Texas and “moved up to the big city” of Canyon for college, where he has spent his working life since graduation.
Keith is passionate about student success and works daily to meet the needs of students through innovative approaches, including a new program OPI has launch called Pathway Scholars.
For more information about Opportunity Plan: www.opportunityplan.com
To reach Keith: KBrown@opportunityplan.com
This episode’s guest is Dyke Rogers. Dyke is a philanthropist and entrepreneur from Dalhart, TX. He has owned many businesses throughout his time in the Panhandle. Most of them located in Dalhart, the place he calls home.
He has worked to better the Dalhart community and was instrumental in attracting the Hilmar Cheese plant to the area. In this episode, you’ll learn how that plant changed the Dalhart area from the moment it opened its doors.
In addition, Dyke is a passionate supporter of his alma mater, West Texas A&M University. He and his wife, Terry, endowed the Dyke and Terry Rogers Leadership Education and Development Program (Rogers LEAD WT) at the University. In the episode, Dyke gives his very personal reason for supporting such a program at WT.
Dyke lives by the idea that you should leave something better than you found it and the fruits of this can be seen in many parts of the Panhandle.
Square Mile Community Development This week we introduce you to Brady Clark, the Executive Director of Square Mile Community Development. His organization is working to create economic development in the San Jacinto neighborhood. Brady is also part of the St. Anthony’s Legacy and Redevelopment Corp (SALAR). working on the old St. Anthony’s property in northeast Amarillo to revitalize the economy of the historic neighborhood and property.
He has worked in this space for more than a decade by creating programs and plans to help economically disadvantaged areas. In 2018 the Amarillo Area Foundation, asked Brady to facilitate a program called PATH. The goal is to create, foster and encourage the entrepreneur spirit in diverse neighborhoods. The program pairs the entrepreneur with a mentor. The mentors are successful business professionals that help guide the entrepreneur through a myriad of issues. Brady helps source the entrepreneur and ensures they are matched with the mentor who will help them the most.
More info: For more information on Square Mile: https://www.square-mile.org/
For more information on SALAR: https://salarc.org
For more information on PATH: https://www.amarilloareafoundation.org/path/
You will not want to miss this episode, subscribe to stay up to-to-date.
In this episode, we sit down with Jason Herrick. Jason is the President of Pantera Energy, an oil and gas operation in the Texas Panhandle. He is the chair for the committee working to make the Texas Tech University Veterinary School a reality in Amarillo.
Jason shares information about how a vet school would benefit our area and why it’s an important addition for students who are seeking to work with large animals. Jason also shares what you can do right now to help as the critical step of funding this initiative is being discussed in the legislative session right now in Austin.
For more information on the Texas Tech Vet school, you can log on to:
unmetvetdemand.com or ttuvetmed.com
As the sponsor of this podcast, the Amarillo Area Foundation is delivering on their mission to improve quality of life in the Texas Panhandle. Hear from CEO Clay Stribling about what initiatives the Foundation is focused on.