District 3 Podcast

District 3 Podcast – Episode ft. Ramon Balderas

This week on the District 3 Podcast, hosts Irvin and Miggs sit down with Ramon Balderas—an essential contributor to student success at the University of Arkansas. As a longtime Student Development Specialist and campus leader, Ramon has supported countless students through mentorship, guidance, and advocacy.

In this episode, he shares his own education journey, the passion behind his work in higher education, how he continues to uplift the next generation, and even dives into his recent foray into acting. From personal growth to creative expression, this conversation covers it all.

Tune in for insight, inspiration, and plenty of laughter.

This week on the District 3 Podcast, Irvin, Miggs, and Elena sit down with Northwest Arkansas’ newest resident — and VinePair’s Best New Bartender of 2025 — the incredible new Beverage Director at Yeyo’s Mexican Restaurant, Daniela Pedraza. We dive into her journey from Missouri to NWA, the roots of her passion for drink alchemy, and what it’s been like stepping into the region’s vibrant culinary scene.

Things get extra fun as she tries to guess the hosts’ favorite drinks, shares behind-the-bar stories, and everyone loosens up for some classic, unfiltered District 3 energy. If you’re into great conversations, great drinks, and a whole lot of laughs, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

On this week’s episode of the District 3 Podcast, hosts Irvin, Miggs, and Elena sit down with one of the most intriguing young artists emerging from the scene right now — JP. At only 18 years old, JP is already redefining what it means to be a versatile performer. After spending the last few years mastering the traditional world of Mariachi, he’s now stepping boldly into a new era of his artistry: a smooth, soulful lane inspired by the timeless swagger of legends like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and the entire golden-age crooner era.

In this episode, JP opens up about the moment he realized he wanted to switch genres, the challenges of reinventing himself at such a young age, and how his cultural roots still influence his sound today. The hosts dig into his creative process, the risks he’s taking, and the vision behind his fresh new approach to music.

JP also breaks down the making of his debut single, “SUFFERING,” a track that marks his official leap into his solo career. It’s emotional, atmospheric, and showcases a side of him that fans haven’t heard before — and it’s out now on all streaming platforms.

Tap in for an episode full of laughs, inspiration, behind-the-scenes stories, and a look at an artist who’s just getting started but already moving with star-level intention. This is one you don’t want to miss.

In this powerful episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin, Elena, and Miggs sit down with immigration attorney Nathan Bogart for a deep dive into the realities facing immigrant communities in Arkansas. Together, they break down how ICE operates in the state, the rights every immigrant should know, and the local and state policies shaping daily life for thousands of families. Nathan offers clarity on complex legal processes, shares stories from his work on the frontlines of immigration law, and highlights the urgent need for informed, community-driven advocacy. Whether you're directly impacted or an ally looking to understand more, this conversation offers practical knowledge, context, and hope.

On this episode Irvin sits down with the Mayor of Halloween and Owner of Pin Point, Bo Counts! Listen to this fun episode of Halloween Talk and other Spooooooky things. Happy Halloween! :D

In this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin sits down with two passionate child care entrepreneurs — Shahid Sheikh of Little Martians Learning Center and Jenny Castillo of Casa Castillo — to dig into the mounting crisis facing early childhood providers across Arkansas.

Recently, the Arkansas Department of Education announced sweeping changes to the School Readiness Assistance Program, introducing sliding-scale copayments for families and revised reimbursement rates for providers. Arkansas Advocate While the stated goal is to reduce the child care waitlist and create longer-term fiscal sustainability, many in the sector warn these cuts and cost shifts may push dozens of local centers to close, force layoffs, and reduce care access — especially in underserved communities. Arkansas Advocate

In our conversation, Shahid and Jenny share:

• How their centers are being affected by the new copays and reimbursement changes

• What the survey of child care providers is telling us about closures and financial strain (including projected $37–38 million in revenue shortfalls statewide) Arkansas Advocate

• The human stories behind the numbers: parents who might quit work or drop out of the workforce because child care becomes unaffordable

• Their calls to state leaders: from advocating for caps on family copayments (ideally 7% of income) to urging immediate funding support and legislative action

• How they’re organizing across the state — and how listeners and local communities can amplify the push for stronger child care policy

Tune in to hear a candid, frontline perspective on what’s at stake — not just for child care owners, but for working families, children, and the future of Arkansas’ workforce.

On this episode of The District 3 Podcast, Irvin sits down with Katherin Aristondo, a cancer survivor whose story is one of faith, resilience, and the power of community. Back in 2015, Katherin was diagnosed with an undifferentiated small round cell sarcoma that completely changed the course of her life. She opens up about her experience receiving treatment at St. Jude’s Research Hospital, the emotional and physical challenges she faced, and how she found strength through her faith and the unwavering support of those around her.

Now cancer-free, Katherin reflects on what her journey taught her about perseverance, gratitude, and living with purpose. She shares heartfelt stories about the moments that tested her and the ones that reminded her she was never alone in the fight. This episode is an honest and moving conversation about hope, healing, and the incredible things that can happen when community and determination come together.

On this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin sits down with the author of the new children’s book The Black Cookout Survival Guide. Together, they dive into the inspiration behind the book, the importance of mental health, and the realities of racism in our country. They also explore why open and honest conversations matter now more than ever. This heartfelt episode brings real stories, real perspectives, and a dialogue you won’t want to miss.

On this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin and Miggs sit down with Olivia Barraza, co-founder of Latinas en Bici, a nonprofit dedicated to normalizing bike riding among Latina women—whether for recreation, daily life, or as a new skill for those who’ve never ridden before. We dive into the story behind the organization, the importance of bike accessibility in the Latino community, and how cycling can empower and connect people. Olivia also shares details about their signature annual event, Tour de Frida, happening this Saturday at The Momentary in Bentonville. It’s a fun and meaningful conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of the District 3 Podcast, Irvin and Miggs sit down with comedian Francisco Ramos for a conversation that’s equal parts fun and insightful. Francisco has been featured on Hulu’s This Fool, Netflix’s Gentefied, and voiced a character in the animated hit Rio. He also stars in an upcoming film produced by Kevin Smith and is performing live this weekend at The Grove in Lowell. Together, they talk about his comedy journey, the importance of mental health, and the power of storytelling through humor. Don’t miss this engaging interview with one of today’s most versatile comedians in the US.