Getting Neighborly -- Town of Fairview

In this episode, Dave welcomes Laura Johnson, Executive Director of the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center in Lucas, TX. With her unique background in animal behavior, business, and conservation, Laura walks us through the vital work her organization does rehabilitating injured raptors—birds of prey like hawks, owls, and eagles—while also shedding light on the efforts to protect the endangered Blackland Prairie ecosystem right in our backyard.

From the surprising costs of bird rehabilitation to the essential role raptors play in keeping our communities healthy, Laura shares how passionate staff and hundreds of volunteers work tirelessly to support wildlife. Plus, we'll learn practical ways residents can get involved, from building pocket prairies to volunteering, and hear inspiring stories about connecting kids and adults alike to nature. Whether you're a longtime resident or just discovering the unique neighborly spirit of our area, this episode will open your eyes to the wild side of North Texas—and why it's worth protecting.

To find out more, visit: https://bpraptorcenter.org/

Key Topics Discussed:

• Laura Johnson's professional and educational background, blending animal behavior science and business

• The mission and operations of the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center

• The endangered status and ecological importance of the Blackland Prairie

• Key features and roles of raptors in the ecosystem

• Processes and challenges of raptor rehabilitation, including patient intake and care

• Community involvement: volunteer programs, public education, and events

• Practical ways for residents to support wildlife, such as pocket prairies and owl boxes

• The significant financial costs of rehabilitating raptors

• The importance of teaching children and connecting urban communities to nature

• Plans for the Raptor Center's future, including expanded community engagement

"Super" Dave welcomes Carrie Campbell, founder of Mane Mentors, to share her story about transitioning from a corporate insurance career in Los Angeles to starting a purpose-driven equine mentorship program in Fairview, Texas. Carrie Campbell explains how the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a major life change for her and her husband, leading them to relocate to North Texas, embrace small-town living, and follow her lifelong passion for horses.

Now serving the adult disability community, Carrie Campbell blends horsemanship, holistic biomechanics, and mindset practices to help neurodiverse individuals reconnect with their bodies and build confidence, all set within a serene and supportive barn environment. They discuss the unique aspects of running a business in Fairview, including the welcoming, collaborative nature of the community, and the inclusive spirit that supports newcomers and small businesses alike. Carrie Campbell describes both the challenges and rewards of launching a business rooted in heart and personal passion, emphasizing the importance of continually reaffirming one's purpose. The conversation highlights the value of showing up, making connections, and the impact that mentorship and animal-assisted experiences can have on people of all ages and abilities.

To find out more about Mane Mentors, visit: https://www.manementors.com/

"Super" Dave welcomes Meg Latham, Director of Stewardship at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. Meg shares what it was like growing up on the sanctuary after her father, Dr. Harold Laughlin, became the museum's first director, hired by founder Miss Bessie Heard, who created the preserve to protect a piece of Collin County and educate children as development spread. They discuss the Heard's mission, 289-acre sanctuary, trails, seasonal wildlife viewing, and popular features like the animatronic dinosaur trail.

Meg explains stewardship work, including community relationships, fundraising, and corporate volunteer projects, plus education programs, field trips, citizen science, and research partnerships, including bird banding and FrogWatch.

To learn more about the museum, visit: https://www.heardmuseum.org/

Key Topics Discussed:

• Growing up at the Heard Museum
• How Meg's Family Arrived
• Meg's Career Path
• Stewardship Role Explained
• Nature Lessons and Conservatory
• Why the Heard Is More Than Just Family Fun

"Super" Dave sits down with Paula Phillips, a licensed occupational therapist and founder of Calibrating Lyfe in Fairview, Texas. Paula shares her extensive experience of over 20 years in the field, highlighting her passion for proactive, holistic approaches to health and quality of life. She discusses how her medical background shaped her understanding that too many individuals and families only react to health crises rather than taking meaningful prevention steps. This realization led her to create Calibrating Lyfe, where she works both with individuals and organizations to help them anticipate, prepare for, and navigate health transitions with confidence.

They discuss the practical advice for maintaining long-term wellbeing, including the importance of hydration, healthy diet, balance, flexibility, and emotional health. Paula emphasizes the often-overlooked links between physical health, mental wellness, and social engagement, advocating for a comprehensive plan that supports independence and quality of life as we age. She also discusses common misconceptions about occupational therapy, the value of quality of life planning for business owners and families, and simple steps that anyone can take today to reduce future health risks. The episode is rounded out with reflections on community, advice for neighborly support, and practical recommendations for listeners to start recalibrating their lives.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Paula's journey into occupational therapy and her Texas roots

• The holistic role of occupational therapy in physical, cognitive, and emotional health

• Common patterns in patient care—lack of health awareness and proactive prevention

• The founding and mission of Calibrating Lyfe

• The importance of prevention versus reacting to health crises

• Practical steps for protecting future independence (hydration, diet, stretching, balance)

• Navigating major life and health transitions, both physically and emotionally

• How quality of life planning benefits individuals, families, and business owners

• Misconceptions about occupational therapy and what calibrating life really means

• Neighborly support and the importance of community connections in health

• Simple action steps to start improving quality of life today

Dave welcomes Jonathan Price, owner of theMagazine, a local bi-monthly magazine that focuses on celebrating life in Fairview and Lucas, Texas. Jonathan shares his passion for community-building through print media, explaining why he believes print still matters in a digital world. He talks about the magazine's role as a modern-day "front porch," helping residents connect on a deeper level with their neighbors, local businesses, and the various stories that make their community unique.

Throughout the conversation, Dave and Jonathan discuss topics like the importance of fostering genuine community connections in an increasingly fast-paced and private world. Jonathan also discusses how the magazine goes beyond simple advertising by forming genuine partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits, aiming to create impactful stories that resonate throughout the community. He shares anecdotes about the power of local storytelling and why "the power of one" is at the heart of what he does—believing that even if one person is impacted, his work is a success.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The continuing relevance and impact of print media in a digital landscape

• How the magazine acts as a "front porch" to bring neighbors together

• The changing nature of community connection in modern suburban life

• Building genuine partnerships with local businesses instead of simple advertising

• The importance of telling local stories to foster community pride and awareness

• Success stories where magazine features have directly benefited nonprofits and residents

• The unique character and appeal of the Fairview and Lucas area

• Advice for small business owners on grassroots marketing and authentic connection

• Lessons learned from launching and growing the publication

In this episode, Dave sits down with author and retired teacher Gay Ann Kiser to explore her journey from growing up in the foster care system to becoming a prolific writer in Fairview, Texas. Gay shares candid insights about her childhood struggles, the therapeutic role that writing has played in her life, and how authenticity infuses her memoirs, sweet romances, and cozy mysteries.

Throughout the conversation, she opens up about using her own life experiences—including family challenges and foster care—to create flawed, relatable characters and to help readers and aspiring writers feel seen and understood. The episode also dives into the unique inspirations behind Gay's work, such as her lifelong love of choir singing, her time teaching in local schools, and her rural Fairview lifestyle, complete with miniature donkeys and the recent loss of a beloved pet goat. Gay Ann offers practical advice for those who want to share their own stories, emphasizing the importance of honest storytelling, reading widely, and seeking meaningful feedback.

Visit Gay's Website at: www.gaykiser.wixsite.com/author

Key topics discussed:

• Gay Ann Kaiser's early life in foster care and its impact on her writing

• The role of authenticity and real-life experiences in her books

• Writing as a form of therapy and self-exploration

• The inspiration behind her cozy mysteries, especially her love for choir music

• The process of writing and releasing both memoirs and fictional works

• Living in Fairview, Texas, and its influence on her settings and characters

• The importance of helping others tell their stories, particularly those who have faced hardships

• Practical tips for aspiring writers on getting started and staying true to their voice

• Gay's involvement with her local church choir and the disclaimer about her fictional characters

• Community spirit and support in Fairview, highlighted throughout the episode

Dave welcomes Cibby Bowden, the director and managing director of North Texas Performing Arts (NTPA) in Fairview, to discuss her extensive experience in theater education and the impact of the arts on young performers. They discuss how theater participation helps children build confidence, find community, and develop valuable life skills that transcend the stage. Cibby shares personal anecdotes from her early days on stage, her passion for starting and sustaining youth theater programs, and the pivotal role of organizations like NTPA in enriching local culture.

The conversation also highlights the national recognition Cibby has received—namely the prestigious Freddie G Fellowship Award—and how this spotlight has elevated the Fairview theater community. The episode touches on the wide range of offerings at NTPA, from productions for children and teens to new programs for adults 62 and up, emphasizing the organization's commitment to inclusivity and lifelong creativity.

To find out more, visit: https://ntpa.org/fairview/

Key Topics Discussed:

• The transformation and growth of children through theater, from shy beginners to confident performers

• Cibby Bowden's journey in theater and arts education, including her early influences and career milestones

• The evolution of youth theater, with programs like Music Theater International making Broadway shows accessible to young and amateur performers

• The ten core character traits emphasized at North Texas Performing Arts and how these skills benefit kids beyond theater

• Unique features of Fairview Youth Theater, such as strong parental involvement and a welcoming community spirit

• NTPA's expansion to include programming for adults 62 and over and community-wide productions involving whole families

• National recognition through awards like the Freddie G Fellowship and participation in events like the Junior Theater Festival

• The value of theater in developing essential life skills, teamwork, and adaptability in young people

• How parents can get their children involved in theater, with options ranging from free introductory workshops to full productions

• The broader impact of arts and performance on the Fairview community and beyond

In this episode, Dave welcomes Tyler Shin, the founder of Revolving Kitchen, a ghost kitchen facility located in Fairview, Texas.

They discuss Tyler's journey from growing up in the restaurant business and watching his mom work her weekends away in the kitchen. Vowing to forge a different path for himself, Tyler went the Finance route, but eventually, he found his way back to the restaurant world. His experience led him to create a space that offers an affordable solution for budding food businesses, providing them with state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.

The Revolving Kitchen not only supports takeout and delivery operations but also includes a food hall and event space, offering a full dining experience with various cuisines and amenities. Super Dave and Tyler discuss the benefits of this concept for both diners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the opportunity for small businesses to test and grow their culinary concepts without the high costs associated with traditional brick-and-mortar locations.

To find out more and visit the Revolving Kitchen, you can find it at:https://revolvingkitchen.com/

Key Topics Discussed:

• The challenges and sacrifices associated with running a traditional restaurant
• The innovative concept of a ghost kitchen and its advantages for small food entrepreneurs
• The variety of dining options available at Revolving Kitchen and the unique dining experience it offers
• The importance of community support in Fairview, Texas, and how Revolving Kitchen fits into the town's development plans
• The logistical and operational support provided to restaurant operators within the Revolving Kitchen facility
• Opportunities for community members and entrepreneurs to engage with Revolving Kitchen

Welcome to another episode of Getting Neighborly, where Dave welcomes Carey Zarate, who shares her journey from part time artist, to full-time entrepreneur.

Carey shares her journey from transforming a part-time passion into a full-blown creative business, especially after a pivotal moment during the pandemic. She now runs Artistic Endeavors, a vibrant storefront in Fairview Town Center, where creativity knows no bounds. From printing on anything imaginable to collaborating with local artists and big brands like the Ritz Carlton, Carey's journey is a testament to the magic of creativity and community.

Carey and Dave discuss the world of 'usable art', her passion for making art accessible and functional, and discover valuable insights into thriving as a small business owner. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an established creator, or just someone with a spark of creativity, there's something in this episode for everyone.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Carey's entrepreneurial journey from part-time to full-time business owner

• The importance of creativity and how artists can expand the use of their art

• Carey's experiences and challenges in running Artistic Endeavors in Fairview

• The collaborative, supportive community environment of Fairview, Texas

• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on authenticity and financial awareness

• Examples of innovative projects and partnerships, including corporate gifts and artisanal products

• Carey's philosophy on helping other businesses and the reciprocal benefits the approach brings

Dave welcomes Linda Munson, the owner of Housewarmers of Allen. Linda shares her journey from being a computer programmer to owning a business that connects newcomers in the Allen, Fairview, Parker, and Lucas areas with local businesses and community resources.

She highlights the importance of fostering a sense of community for new residents and provides detailed insights into how Housewarmers of Allen offers valuable information and trusted referrals to help residents acclimate and thrive. Linda also talks about how their welcoming service bridges gaps in the community, such as helping a young non-native English speaker find the resources to write a book.

Throughout the conversation, Dave and Linda discuss the broader impact of such initiatives on community strength and cohesion. Linda emphasizes the importance of personal connections and local involvement, explaining how Housewarmers of Allen not only supports local businesses but also encourages residents to engage in various community activities and volunteer opportunities. Their dialogue paints a comprehensive picture of how a well-connected community can significantly enhance the quality of life for its residents.

To find out more about Housewarmers of Allen, visit: https://housewarmersallen.com/

Key Topics Discussed:

• The role of Housewarmers of Allen in connecting new residents with local businesses

• Importance of community and personal connections for new residents

• Examples of how Housewarmers helps residents with specific needs

• Discussion on the changing dynamics in the Allen, Fairview, Parker, and Lucas areas

• The impact of local engagement on community strength

• Encouragement for residents to participate in community activities and volunteer opportunities