Mayor Steven Mason closes out Season 1 with a rapid‑fire tour through the podcast’s most memorable moments. From high‑school phenom Jeremiah Hernandez’s full‑ride to SMU to city‑wide breakthroughs in business, public safety, health care and transit, this “best‑of” sampler shows how Cedar Hill and the Best Southwest are elevating everyday life.

🎧 In this highlight reel

• Youth on the rise – Hear how local student leaders turn classroom grit into scholarships and service.
• Entrepreneurship & innovation – From corrugated‑box empires to coworking spaces and salad franchises, discover why founders keep choosing Cedar Hill.
• Outdoors, wellness & safety – Hike the escarpment with the “Black Hiking Queen,” meet the Reyes chiefs behind police‑fire teamwork, and learn how Methodist Charlton’s surgical robots and Star Transit’s curb‑to‑curb rides are reshaping local quality of life.

👍 Like what you hear? Follow The Elevate Effect so you never miss an episode, and share this season finale with a friend who loves community‑driven stories.

🔗 Useful links • City of Cedar Hill – cedarhilltx.com

#ElevateEffect #SeasonFinale #CedarHillTX #CommunityLeadership

Cedar Hill Mayor Steven Mason welcomes Tommy Hendricks (Executive Director) and Kim Britton (Deputy Executive Director) of Star Transit for a conversation on how app‑based, curb‑to‑curb service is reshaping mobility in Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and DeSoto.

In this episode you’ll discover:

• How residents can schedule affordable, on‑demand rides in minutes
• Ways Star Transit links the Best Southwest to DART Light Rail and the wider DFW region
• Fare options that keep rides accessible for seniors, veterans, and riders with disabilities
• What expanded service could mean for jobs, education, and local quality of life

Links & resources

Star Transit – startransit.org

Download the StarNow app on iOS or Android

https://www.cedarhilltx.com/75/Agendas-Minutes

In this inspiring episode of Elevate Effect, Mayor Stephen Mason sits down with Michael Stewart, President of Methodist Charlton Medical Center, to explore the power of purpose-driven leadership in the world of healthcare. With a deep commitment to both patient care and community well-being, Michael shares his journey through the medical field and how his values have shaped his approach to leadership.

Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare, the importance of servant leadership, and how Methodist Charlton is making a lasting impact beyond the hospital walls. From building stronger community partnerships to supporting frontline workers, this conversation offers meaningful insights into leading with purpose and compassion.

Find more details on the Cedar Hill Street Dance happening on Saturday, April 26 here: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/3204/Street-Dance

To submit a question to Mayor Stephen Mason and explore more about Elevate Effect, visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect

In this engaging episode of Elevate Effect, Mayor Stephen Mason sits down with John Mays, a dedicated community leader who wears many hats as President of Cedar Hill All Pro Dads, owner of a boutique fitness studio, and founder of Cedar Hill Dads Aviation. With a passion for mentorship, wellness, and adventure, John shares how his diverse experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and impact.

These two dynamic leaders discuss the importance of fatherhood initiatives and upcoming trends and opportunities in aviation that everyone should be aware of. John also highlights ways families can get involved in Cedar Hill All Pro Dads, an organization dedicated to strengthening father-child relationships.

To get involved with Cedar Hill All Pro Dads, visit: https://www.chisd.net/services/family-and-community-engagement/parent-organizations/all-pro-dads.

Discover details on Party in the Park here: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=14984.

Have a question for Mayor Stephen Mason’s Listener Q&A segment? Submit it here: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect.

In this compelling episode of Elevate Effect, Mayor Stephen Mason explores the vital role of compassion in public safety with two of Cedar Hill’s top leaders: Police Chief Ely Reyes and Fire Chief Rafael Reyes. With decades of experience between them, these dedicated public servants share insights on how empathy and trust-building play a crucial role in law enforcement and emergency response.

Together, they discuss the collaboration between police and fire departments, the importance of community engagement, and how their teams work tirelessly to keep Cedar Hill safe. Through personal stories and professional wisdom, this conversation highlights the heart behind public service and how everyday citizens can contribute to fostering a safer, more connected community.

Learn more about the Senior Meal Program here: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/2856/60-Meal-Program

To submit a question to Mayor Stephen Mason and explore more about Elevate Effect, visit https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect

Great leaders are often shaped by the communities they call home. In this inspiring episode of Elevate Effect, Mayor Stephen Mason is joined by two remarkable public servants who have deep roots in the communities they now lead. Representative Toni Rose of Texas House District 110 and Mayor Rachel Proctor of DeSoto, Texas share how growing up in the areas they serve has shaped their passion for public service, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Together, they share insights about the power of community connection, and how staying true to your roots can inspire meaningful change in the places we call home and beyond.

For more information on STAR Transit services in Cedar Hill, visit https://www.startransit.org/new-transportation-options-available-in-cedar-hill/

Learn more about Cedar Hill’s award-winning Library in a Park at https://www.cedarhilllibrary.org/

To submit a question to Mayor Stephen Mason and explore more about Elevate Effect, visit https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect

Mayor Stephen Mason welcomes two local leaders to discuss what makes Cedar Hill a fantastic place for families to put down roots. Dr. Trevena Nelson, principal of Plummer Elementary School and a proud mother of two Cedar Hill High School graduates, shares her passion for shaping young minds in the city’s top-rated schools. Franchesca Alvarado, a local realtor, pastor, and community advocate, offers her perspective on the welcoming neighborhoods and tight-knit community that make Cedar Hill a great place to raise a family. Together, they explore the city’s educational excellence, family-friendly events, and the supportive environment that makes Cedar Hill truly special. Whether you're new to the area, a longtime resident, or even looking for a new place to live, this conversation will inspire you to appreciate all the city has to offer.

To get involved with Cedar Hill’s community organizations, please visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/2412/Community-Organizations

To submit a question to Mayor Stephen Mason and learn more about Elevate Effect, please visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect

In this episode of Elevate Effect, Mayor Stephen Mason dives into the distinct connections between nature, wellness, and community in Cedar Hill, Texas - widely known as the natural heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Joining him are Irene Ogeto, also known as the Black Hiking Queen, who has inspired a following of over 40,000 by championing inclusivity and empowerment in outdoor spaces, and Katie Christman, Cedar Hill’s Nature and Open Space Coordinator, whose expertise in the area’s natural assets drives her work to expand access to Cedar Hill’s breathtaking landscapes. Together, they discuss the unique natural beauty and outdoor activities in Cedar Hill, and the ways in which connecting with nature can elevate both personal well-being and community spirit.

For details on Mayor's Prayer Breakfast, please visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/calendar.aspx?EID=13007

Discover events and services available at Cedar Hill's Library in a Park here: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/676/Library

To submit a question to Mayor Stephen Mason and learn more about Elevate Effect, please visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect

In this episode of Elevate Effect, Mayor Stephen Mason explores what makes Cedar Hill, Texas a great city for businesses to thrive. Joining him in the Poetic Justice Studio are two influential business leaders: Mike Tansey, Southwest Division President of Pratt Industries, a national leader in recycled paper and packaging which recently opened a facility in Cedar Hill, and Brianna Gonzales, owner of The Social Chica, a coworking space that empowers women in business with marketing and event services. Together, they share inspiring business advice and insights on what makes Cedar Hill a prime location for businesses across industries and sizes.

Don’t miss Country Day on the Hill happening this October: https://cedarhilltx.com/2129/October---Country-Day-on-the-Hill

Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Recreation Center this month: https://cedarhilltx.com/3105/October---Recreation-Center-20-Year-Anni

Join the Cedar Hill Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Gala honoring local businesses: https://www.cedarhillchamber.org/events/details/business-awards-gala-19920

To submit a question to Mayor Stephen Mason and learn more about Elevate Effect, please visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect

In the debut episode of Elevate Effect, Mayor Stephen Mason sits down with Jeremiah Hernandez, a Cedar Hill ISD graduate and first year Southern Methodist University scholar who earned a prestigious full-ride scholarship. Hernandez opens up about his path to success, sharing how the Cedar Hill community played a key role in shaping his future. This inspiring conversation highlights the powerful impact of local support and Cedar Hill’s commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.

For more details on the Best Southwest Hispanic Heritage Festival happening Saturday, September 21st, 2024, please visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=14526

To submit a question to Mayor Stephen Mason and for more information on Elevate Effect, please visit: https://www.cedarhilltx.com/elevateeffect