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

This week, we’re joined by Roger Adamson, CEO of the George Foundation, to discuss the philanthropic efforts and impact the George Foundation has on Fort Bend County, including numerous grants, scholarships, initiatives, and educational programs designed to provide the very best in aid and assistance. 

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

History of the George Foundation and its link to the Old Three Hundred

How funds are arranged and divided up amongst nonprofit recipients 

Portfolios or “buckets” of giving within the community

Educational opportunities for students of all ages

Projects assisted by the George Foundation and how they came to be

This week, we’re joined by John Kennedy, Field Development Officer at TSTC and Deacon at St. Theresa Catholic Church, to talk about what the Texas State Technical College does, who it serves, and how different programs and opportunities continue to be created as they expand further into Fort Bend county. 

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

John’s decision to become a Deacon after years in the Catholic faith 

Transitioning out of a hospitality role into his role with TSTC

Scholarship fundraising and the Helping Hands fund

Programs and opportunities offered to students at TSTC

Fulfilling community needs and placing students in solid careers

This week, we’re joined by Jess Stuart, Community Development Executive at YMCA and descendant of the “Old Three Hundred”, to discuss his extensive family history in texas, passion for historical preservation, and the goals the YMCA has for our community moving forward.

 

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

Almost 200 years of family history in Texas

History of the Old Three Hundred

How Jess developed his own interest in family history and Texas history 

Work Jess has done with numerous groups, nonprofits, and organizations

YMCA’s journey in Fort Bend and what to look forward to at the TW Davis location

In anticipation of Season 3 launching February 15, we’re replaying some listener favorites from our first two seasons. Season 2’s episode with the ladies of Vintage Hope first aired June 2021, and since then, their business has flourished. After seamlessly transitioning into The Guild’s space, Emily, Katie & Elise decided 611 Jackson Street needed to be the permanent home for their business. Starting this February, Vintage Hope will officially take over the space. We’re re-airing this fun, and heart-warming episode to acquaint (or re-acquaint) you with the newest gals on the Jax & 7th block!

In anticipation of Season 3 launching on February 15, we’re replaying some listener favorites from our first two seasons. Since airing the Fort Bend Museum episode from season 1 in June of 2020, so much has changed! The brand-new museum building has opened, Emily has joined the board of the Fort Bend History Association, and after a two-year pause, plans for the History Association’s annual gala, the Lone Star Stomp on Saturday, April 9, are underway. Enjoyed this episode? Support the Fort Bend History Association's efforts by purchasing a ticket to the Lone Star Stomp at www.fbhistory.org.

Aimee and Emily introduce you to the themes, motivations, and fresh faces behind the newest season of Born in The Bend.

Emily and Aimee meet with Ray and Sarah Smith, founders of Speakerbox Media and producers of Born in the Bend, to discuss starting their own podcasting business, finding a niche in Houston, and understanding the importance of an audio strategy.

In this episode, Aimee, Emily, Ray, and Sarah cover:

How Ray and Sarah met and started their lives together

What drew them towards entrepreneurship and podcasting

Where they found their niche and developed their services

How they formed a partnership with Expansive

Where they see themselves going and their goals as a business

Aimee and Emily meet Jen Plihal and Peg Turrentine, founders of Three Sisters Farm, and talk about all things farming, harvesting, and selling to the community.

In this episode, Aimee, Emily, Jen, and Peg cover:

Growing up with gardening and farming in their childhoods

Developing a business partnership through mutual passion

Living off the land and making it work on a budget

Selling crops and teaching others how to garden and grow

Dreaming of more commercial opportunities in the future