Raising Midland

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Troy Gray, Site Manager of the Bush Family Home Historic Site in Midland, Texas. Troy shares how this modest home once housed two future U.S. Presidents — George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush — and how the site now serves as a living window into Midland’s rich history.Troy discusses his background in museum curation, the importance of historic preservation, and how the Bush family’s early years in Midland helped shape their values and leadership. You'll also hear stories about the restoration process, surprising facts about the house, and how the site engages with the community today.Whether you're a history buff, a proud Midlander, or just curious about how one small home played a big role in American history — this episode is a must-watch.📍 Filmed at Forty Wolves Podcast Studio in Midland, Texas.Chapters:00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction02:00 – Troy Gray’s Path to Historic Preservation04:45 – The Bush Family’s Time in Midland08:10 – What Makes the Bush Family Home Unique12:20 – Restoring the Home to Its 1950s Glory16:00 – Unexpected Discoveries During Renovation19:15 – What Visitors Can Expect at the Site23:00 – Engaging the Community Through History26:30 – The Legacy of George H.W. & George W. Bush30:00 – Upcoming Events & Educational Programs33:20 – Final Thoughts on Preserving Local HistoryRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy welcomes Tanya Eckert from Casa De Amigos, a cornerstone nonprofit that has served West Texas since 1964. What began in an abandoned grocery store has become a thriving hub for community empowerment across all ages.Casa De Amigos delivers vital services ranging from GED and ESL classes to youth tutoring, senior programs, health and wellness initiatives, and emergency assistance. Tanya shares how the organization continues to adapt and meet the evolving needs of the Permian Basin while staying rooted in its mission: to improve lives through education, social services, and connection.Whether you're passionate about lifelong learning, supporting local families, or simply giving back—this conversation will show you how one organization can make a multigenerational impact.Learn more or volunteer at: https://casadeamigosmidland.org00:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Casa De Amigos01:30 - Casa’s Origin: From Grocery Store to Community Hub03:00 - Core Programs: Education, Health, and Social Services05:20 - How Casa Supports Families Across Generations07:45 - Adult Education: GED & ESL Opportunities09:10 - Youth Tutoring and Mentorship Programs10:50 - Senior Services: Connection, Meals & Dignity13:00 - The Heart of Casa: Community & Empowerment15:30 - How to Volunteer or Support Casa’s Mission17:00 - Tanya Eckert’s Hope for the Future of MidlandRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

In this heartfelt episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Diane Cole Wigum, Executive Director of Midland Fair Havens, to spotlight the life-changing work being done for single mothers and their children in the Permian Basin.Midland Fair Havens is more than just a shelter—it’s a comprehensive residential program designed to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through education, life skills training, and spiritual growth. Diane shares inspiring stories of transformation and the organization’s commitment to guiding women toward long-term independence.You’ll also hear about Gingerbread Haven, the annual fundraising event that brings the community together in a unique and meaningful way to support Midland Fair Havens’ mission.Whether you’re a parent, a volunteer, or someone looking to make a difference—this episode is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when compassion meets action.Learn more or donate: https://www.mfh.org00:00 - Intro: Meet Diane Cole Wigum of Midland Fair Havens01:20 - What is Midland Fair Havens?03:45 - The mission to empower single mothers06:15 - From crisis to independence: Real transformation stories09:30 - Education, life skills & faith-based support12:05 - How Gingerbread Haven brings the community together14:50 - Challenges in the nonprofit space17:10 - How volunteers and donors make a difference19:00 - What gives Diane hope for Midland’s future21:00 - How to get involved or support the missionRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Rachel Ritter, Executive Director of Midland Festival Ballet, to explore the impact of ballet on children’s development, confidence, and mental health.From the tradition of The Nutcracker to the unexpected ways ballet teaches leadership, teamwork, and resilience, this episode is a must-watch for parents looking to understand the power of the arts in shaping young minds.Rachel shares her journey, the storied history of Midland Festival Ballet, and how the organization integrates discipline with empathy to build a lasting legacy in the Permian Basin. They discuss the importance of keeping girls in sports, how ballet fosters coachability, and what makes Midland’s arts community so unique.00:00 - Intro: Meet Rachel Ritter of Midland Festival Ballet01:32 - Rachel’s background and return to Midland03:45 - The founding of Midland Festival Ballet06:00 - Why ballet is a sport and an art08:10 - Tradition and legacy in ballet10:48 - The impact of professional-level instructors13:25 - Discipline and structure in early childhood ballet17:10 - Respect, reverence, and mutual growth19:35 - Challenging stereotypes in girls' sports21:30 - Mental health benefits of ballet24:55 - The importance of coachability27:30 - Mentorship: Big girls helping the little ones30:45 - Behind the scenes of The Nutcracker35:05 - Volunteer army and community pride38:00 - Summer camps and year-round programs40:15 - Why Rachel is hopeful for Midland’s future42:40 - Final thoughts and how to get involved👉 Learn more about Midland Festival Ballet: https://midlandfestivalballet.org📱 Follow Raising Midland for more inspiring stories from local leaders and parents.Produced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

Join Jessica McCoy on this episode of Raising Midland as she sits down with Ray Fieldhouse, Assistant General Manager of the Midland RockHounds, to explore the heartbeat of minor league baseball in West Texas.Go behind the scenes of RockHounds operations—from gameday logistics and community outreach to the team’s creative promotions and how they stack up against viral sensations like the Savannah Bananas. Hear Ray’s story of moving from Los Angeles to Midland, and how his passion for sports and leadership continues to fuel one of the most beloved teams in minor league baseball.Plus, get a peek into the RockHounds’ fan experience, including unique ballpark events like their TopGolf-style setup and summer family nights.If you're a baseball fan, love team culture, or just enjoy great stories from behind the scenes, this one’s for you.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insider stories from the people shaping life in Midland.Produced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

n this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy welcomes Adam Sahli, artistic director at Midland Community Theatre—one of the largest community theaters in the country. From his unexpected path through psychology to leading powerful stage productions like Anastasia, Adam shares how theater fosters emotional growth, builds community, and transforms lives.Explore the behind-the-scenes magic of MCT, its impact on youth development, and why this cultural cornerstone continues to thrive in Midland.CHAPTERS:00:00 – Midland Community Theatre: A Hidden Giant01:00 – Meet Adam Sahli02:00 – South Dakota Roots & Eastern European Heritage03:45 – Psychology, Athletics & the Journey into Theater06:00 – Discovering Theater in College09:15 – Challenging Student-Athlete Stereotypes11:30 – Earning an MFA in Theater Direction13:00 – Sports & Theater: Lessons in Teamwork15:00 – The Power of Ensemble in “Anastasia”17:00 – The Romanov Family & Historical Themes20:00 – Global Identity & Cultural Perspective23:00 – What Makes MCT One of the Largest in the Nation25:00 – Bringing National-Scale Theater to West Texas27:00 – The Heart of MCT: Volunteers & Staff29:00 – Community Impact Through Theater32:00 – Why Theater Matters for Kids35:00 – Emotional Growth Through Live Performance38:00 – Learning to Appreciate Theater (Even Musicals!)41:00 – The Power of Shared Audience Experience43:00 – Reimagining “Oklahoma” and Classic Theater45:00 – Theater as a Mirror of Humanity47:00 – Tips for Parents Bringing Kids to Theater50:00 – MCT’s Expanded Education Programs52:30 – Hope for Midland’s Cultural Future54:30 – Why Midland is a Great Place for Families55:15 – Closing Remarks & MCT Season PreviewDon’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations from West Texas.Raising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Kate Williamson, Development Director at YWLA, to explore how the academy is empowering girls through leadership development, STEM-focused education, and college readiness.Learn how YWLA partners with MISD and local nonprofits to create a holistic, student-centered environment that supports academic success and personal growth from sixth grade through graduation. From personalized learning and community involvement to their unique college success advising program, YWLA is breaking barriers and building bright futures.If you're passionate about education, school choice, or advancing opportunities for young women, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and practical impact.Raising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

Join Jessica McCoy on "Raising Midland" as she sits down with Libby Stephens, Executive Director of the West Texas Food Bank, to discuss the vital role of food banks in combating food scarcity in Texas. From government impacts on food availability to innovative programs like Food to Kids and mobile pantries, this conversation reveals the unseen challenges and successes in feeding West Texas. Discover how the community's philanthropic spirit supports incredible initiatives like cooking classes, educational gardens, and partnerships with local schools and businesses. Learn why maintaining a food bank is not just about food distribution but ensuring economic stability and health for all Midland and Odessa residents.https://wtxfoodbank.orgStick around until the end for an in-depth look at how national agricultural policies and local efforts can shape the lives of thousands in West Texas. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more enlightening discussions!Raising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.comRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Keri St. John, Executive Director of Bynum School — the only institution in West Texas offering uninterrupted, year-round education for students with special needs.Discover how Bynum School is transforming lives through personalized instruction, on-site therapies, and vocational programs designed to help students from preschool through adulthood thrive in and beyond the classroom. Keri shares her personal journey, the heart behind the school’s mission, and why families across the Permian Basin turn to Bynum for unwavering support and community.Tune in to hear how this nonprofit school is setting the standard for inclusive education in Midland, Texas.#BynumSchool #SpecialEducation #MidlandTX #NonprofitSchool #YearRoundEducation #IndividualizedLearning #InclusiveEducation #VocationalPrograms #OnsiteTherapies #EducationalSupportRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

Season 2 kicks off with a powerful conversation between host Jessica McCoy and MISD Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Howard about the future of education in Midland.In this premiere episode of Raising Midland Season 2, we dive into what Bond 2023 means for local schools — from building new high schools and reconfiguring grade levels to launching STEM+M junior high programs and expanding extracurricular opportunities across the district.You'll also hear how MISD is prioritizing student safety, educational equity, and long-term planning to create a stronger, more innovative school system.Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, this episode is packed with insights on how Midland ISD is shaping the next generation.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Raising Midland!Produced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com