Brazos Stories with Hugh Stearns

In this episode, we sit down with Jenni Olowo from BCS Together, a local nonprofit doing powerful work to support children and families impacted by the foster care system in the Brazos Valley. From meeting basic needs to walking alongside families and caseworkers, BCS Together is creating a community where no one walks alone.  

Join Us for the Big Barn Dance in Bryan!Linda and I have always loved the mountains and Americana music, which led us to Taos, New Mexico, and the unforgettable Big Barn Dance. We were captivated not just by the music and stunning scenery but also by the way the festival brought together the town, musicians, and music lovers. When we heard BBD was expanding to Bryan, we were thrilled! Bringing an event of this caliber to our community is a big deal, and we owe a huge thanks to Michael Hearne and his family for making it happen. We need your help—join us March 27–29 for this incredible festival! Grab a three-day pass if you can, or come for at least one day and bring your friends. Events like this thrive with community support; we can't wait to see you there!— Hugh StearnsBig Barn Dance Website

In this episode, we talk with Sara Hadley from Chosen: Non-Profit Healthcare Ministry. This incredible organization provides essential medical equipment like wheelchairs, canes, walkers, and hospital beds to those in need across the Brazos Valley. Tune in to hear how Chosen is making a difference in the community! https://chosen210.com/

In this episode we sit down with LeAnn Hale, a passionate local artist, educator, and advocate for visual arts education. She is dedicated to fostering creativity in young artists throughout our community. As the owner of Purple Turtle Art Studio in Downtown Bryan, she's making a lasting impact by bringing art education to the heart of our town. Join us as we explore her journey, vision, and the important role art plays in shaping future generations.https://purpleturtleartstudio.com/

In this fascinating episode, we welcome Michele Buenger, a Board-Certified Health and well-being Coach and registered nurse based in the Brazos Valley. With over 17 years of experience in the healthcare industry and insights from her personal autoimmune journey, Michele discusses the limitations of the healthcare system in creating lasting health and wellness for individuals. Tune in to hear her expert perspective on fostering sustainable well-being beyond traditional healthcare. https://www.thecontributionkey.com/ www.youtube.com/@DoableWellnesswithMichele 

In this episode, we sit down with Meagan Meekma, the project coordinator for Project Hope for Bryan ISD. Bryan ISD is committed to serving students living in transitional situations, such as shelters, double-ups with other families, or unaccompanied youth. Hope's Locker provides clothing, food, toiletries, school supplies, and other necessities to the students in need.  https://www.bryanisd.org/o/bisd/page/project-hope-and-hopes-locker

In this captivating episode, we sit down with Janice Morey, the driving force behind the This Little Piggy Sanctuary nonprofit located in Bryan, Texas. Join us as we delve into Janice's inspiring journey that led her to establish this sanctuary and get an insider's look into the lives of the adorable pigs that find refuge within its walls. https://www.facebook.com/thislittlepiggysanctuaryHosted by: Hugh Stearnshttps://www.stearnshomecare.com/https://www.stearnsdesignbuild.com/

In this episode, we speak with Kat Grier, who works for  Texas A&M AgriLife as the coordinator of education programming and outreach for The Gardens at Texas A&M University. The mission of The Gardens at Texas A&M University is to engage the community in a living teaching environment, encourage curiosity and discovery, and develop wonder for the natural world.https://gardens.tamu.edu/

In this episode, we speak with Jaimi Washburn, the director of the Brazos Interfaith Immigration Network. BIIN's mission is to promote the human dignity and well-being of all immigrants in our community and to advocate for and facilitate better access to legal, educational, and social services. https://brazosimmigration.com/

In this episode, we speak with Nicole Rogers. She is the executive director of the Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary. Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary is a nonprofit charity in Navasota, Texas, whose mission is to provide exceptional lifelong sanctuary to non-releasable wolves and wolfdogs while sharing a message of education and conservation.https://saintfranciswolfsanctuary.org/

In this episode, we speak with Roy Lopez, one of the founders of the Fiestas Patrias Mexicanas of Bryan-College Station. He is also a senior regional advisor for Texas A&M University. We discuss the adversities he faced growing up and how he got where he is today. http://www.fiestaspatrias.org/

In this episode, we speak with Theresa Mangapora, the executive director of the Brazos Valley Food Bank. The Brazos Valley Food Bank unites our community to nourish our neighbors in need. Brazos Valley Food Bank Website

In this episode, we speak with Blake Zeitman, owner of Zeitman's Grocery Store in downtown Bryan.  He is carrying on his family's legacy from the original Zeitman's Grocery Store opened in 1891 by a family of Eastern European Jewish immigrants. Zeitman's Grocery Store Website

In this episode, we speak with the husband and wife team, Jeff, and Theresa Edwards. They run HoneyPotDoc, which is a small family-owned and operated, Texas-based business providing premium honey products and bee-wellness services. As a Texas Master Gardner, Theresa is witness to the inseparable connection of honey bees to the change of seasons, nectar flow, and pollination of vegetable gardens.  Jeff, who is an apiarist, is a licensed Veterinarian in the state of Texas and with advanced training in Veterinary Anatomic Pathologist (the study of animal diseases) and public health.  Links: https://honeypotdoc.com/

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Valerie Hill-Jackson.  She is the Assistant Dean of Educator Preparation at Texas A&M University. Hill-Jackson is a highly-awarded & recognized educator. Her research interests include critical educator preparation, transformative/servant leadership, service-learning/community education, ethnography, school-university partnerships, culture and curriculum, and STEM education for underserved learners. She is the PI + Co-Executive Director of a new program called Brazos Valley Teach, which is a high school education academy. They provide guidance, resources, and support to high school students in the Brazos Valley to become successful future teachers.Links:Dr. Hill-Jackson BioBrazos Valley Teach Website

In this episode, we speak with Judy LeUnes. She is the founder and president of the local non-profit, Wienerspiel. It hosts events for raising funds for non-profits who help homeless, unwanted, and neglected animals as well as organizations who support the human/animal bond and advocating in city and state governments. 

In this episode, we speak with Tre Watson.  He is the co-founder of  Black Lives Matter BCS. We speak to him about his personal connection to BCS and his work to better the community.

In this episode, we speak with Greg Martin.  He is the founder + CEO of The Entrepreneur's Banker and a certified Profit First Banker.  He is a co-creator of a local podcast, Aggie Growth Hacks, that is dedicated to connecting Aggie Entrepreneurs. We speak about his personal history with the Brazos Valley and his current work in the community. 

In this episode, we speak with Alison Prince.  She is the CEO + President of the non-profit United Way of Brazos Valley. We learn more about her life and how she got involved in non-profits and how UWBV works for our community. 

In this episode, we speak with Rusty Surette.  He is the evening news anchor for KBTX-TV (CBS) covering Bryan-College Station and Texas A&M University. 

In this episode, we speak with Rev. Sam Hill.  He is the board treasurer of the Brazos Valley African American Museum and the Pastor of North Bryan New Birth Baptist Church. 

In this episode, we speak with Steve Turner, the Head Roaster and Founder of Polite Coffee Roasters, located in the Kyle House. Steve was serving in the Army in Afghanistan when he had the vision for Polite Coffee: great coffee with real friendly people. 

In this episode, we speak with Raquel Masco, a community activist for single moms dedicated to empowering and encouraging other women and moms. She is the founder of SingleMoms Created4Change.

In this episode, we speak with Dan Kiniry, a community activist serving the poor and homeless of the Brazos Valley. He is also the executive director of Tiny Hope Village, which is a permanent housing solution for people who have experienced homelessness in the Brazos Valley. 

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Richard T. Woodward. He is a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Texas A&M University. He serves on the board of directors for Brazos Interfaith Immigration Network, BIIN’s mission is to promote the human dignity and well-being of all immigrants in our community and to advocate for and facilitate better access to legal, educational, and social services.He is also a founder of the College Station Association of Neighborhoods. CSAN is committed to smart growth, neighborhood preservation, and being part of the process of the decisions impacting our city. 

In this episode, we speak with Jeannie Mansill, the founder + president of the local non-profit Project Unity.  Project Unity’s mission is to empower children, families, and individuals to reach their highest potential in the communities where they live. 

In this episode, we speak with a local business owner, Uri Geva. Uri is the president and founder of Brazos Valley Bombers, a collegiate summer baseball team,  CEO of Infinity Sports and Entertainment, and owner of Edible Arrangements in College Station. 

In this episode, we speak with chef Peter Madden, owner of two of College Station's popular restaurants, Mad Taco & the new MAD melt.

In this episode, we speak with Max Gerall who is the founder & CEO of the REACH project. REACH simultaneously pursues community development, lifelong learning, quality workforce housing, health, and economic security for Aggie workers, through creating opportunities for the entire Aggie community to be woven together.

A podcast covering the characters and stories of the Brazos Valley. In this podcast, Hugh, who is a local business owner and lifelong resident of the Brazos Valley, interviews people who are contributing to our community life.