Born In The Bend

Charlie Beyl, Freelance Author, Illustrator and Educator in University of Houston's Digital Media program, explores the dynamic world of creativity, freelancing, and innovation on this week's episode. Through his work, Charlie shows students and fellow professionals alike how to unlock their unique creative potential and drive innovation in their careers. Talking points include Charlie's memories growing up in the Pacific Northwest, his early days as an artist pre-internet, persistence in pursuit of becoming a published author, and creative freelancing as a superpower.

Jerry Jones Jr., Economic Development Director for Develop Richmond, sits and sips with Em and Aim this week as they talk about big things on the horizon in the small city of Richmond. With exciting developments and new projects springing up all the time, Jerry channels his expertise into cultivating Richmond's business community and creating people-centric places downtown. Talking points include new businesses, new buildings, and a new idea from Emily on why Richmond should be the Lantana Capital of Texas.

A new season of Born in the Bend kicks off this week with a summer wrap-up and a calendar of exciting upcoming events. Emily recaps a summer of European travel and talks about her work with the Fort Bend Museum. Aimee discusses new happenings at Blockhouse Coffee and dives into some upcoming Richmond get-togethers you won't want to miss. Additional talking points include: updates from past guests, holiday fun in Fort Bend, and the launch of the new and improved Born in the Bend website.

Fort Bend native, Em, met Louisiana transplant Aim, in the spring of 2017 and quickly bonded over business, community and motherhood. They came together to create the Born in the Bend podcast out of a desire to build community, foster a sense of place, and instill pride in calling Fort Bend County home. Em & Aim invite you to grab your favorite beverage, be it a cocktail or coffee, and give Born in the Bend a listen. They promise you'll laugh, learn, and come away from each episode valuing your local community like never before. Cheer's y'all!

Changes are coming to a property on Harlem Road in Richmond, TX. Founding Partners of Meristem Communities, a Houston-based real estate development firm that emphasizes creating places for people, Scott Snodgrass and Clayton Garrett sit down with Em and Aim this week to talk about Indigo, their community project that combines housing and business development in Fort Bend county. Coming to a neighborhood near you in 2024, Scott and Clayton give listeners a heads up on what to expect and why to choose Indigo! ---

Get in touch with Scott Snodgrass on LinkedIn

Get in touch with Clayton Garrett on LinkedIn

Learn more about Meristem Communities

Check out Indigo and Indigo Commons

Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and visit us at Born in the Bend and Instagram.

This episode is brought to you by Indigo, and is produced and mixed by the team at Speakerbox Media.

This week we have a special episode sponsored by the Fort Bend History Association. Join us as we sip and chat about delicious upcoming events. Mark your calendars for good brews, fresh food, music, and community! Experience the holiday season through the lens of quaint downtown Richmond.

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For up-to-the-minute updates on all these events and more, follow @jaxand7th, @theguildtx, and @fortbendmuseum on instagram.

To purchase tickets to Bites & Brews on November 10 at the Fort Bend Museum, click here.

To find the route map for the Community Christmas Walk happening December 2 in Downtown Richmond, click here.

For all other events mentioned in this episode, visit the Fort Bend Museum's website events page, here.

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Thank you to our beverage sponsor, Imperial Wines, now open in Sugar Land, TX.

We're joined by Joey Lenderman, owner of Enchanted Gardens, to talk about the plants, animals, gifts, and expert advice that can be found throughout the 13 acres of his incredible nursery. With over 2 decades of experience and a strong following in the Fort Bend community, Joey is proud to offer a wide variety of Texas-grown plants to local gardeners of all skill levels and still finds time in his busy schedule to give back to local nonprofits with causes near and dear to his heart.

In this episode, Joey, Aimee, and Emily discuss:

• Getting started as a family business in Joey's childhood
• Defining the amazing Enchanted Gardens
• Showcasing the variety of offerings within the nursery and gift shop
• Giving some expert advice on everything from soil to pest control
• Finding opportunities to give back to the community

We're joined by Shannan Stavinoha, the Executive Director of Parks Youth Ranch, to discuss her extensive volunteer and development experience in the Fort Bend community. After beginning her career in finance, Shannan soon realized her calling really was to serve, and her areas of focus over the years have been on helping children and developmentally disabled adults receive the essential services and support they need to survive and thrive.

In this episode, Shannan, Aimee, and Emily discuss:

• Transitioning from the financial services industry to development and volunteer work
• Hearing the call to return to Fort Bend and help her community time and time again
• Advocating for children and disabled adults through her personal and professional life
• Embracing her role in Parks Youth Ranch
• Understanding and identifying needs in our community

We're joined by Steve Onstad, owner of Swinging Door, to talk about the almost 50 years his BBQ restaurant has been in business in Fort Bend. As a prominent member of our community, Steve has made a name for himself not only for the incredible food he makes, but for the amazing generosity he has provided for his community.

In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and Steve cover:

• When Steve started cooking
• Where the idea for the Swinging Door came from
• Who made notable appearances in the restaurant and dance hall
• Why Steve feels drawn to his employees, patrons, and community
• How Steve lends a hand in Fort Bend every month