RGVision The Podcast

In this episode of the RGVision Podcast, we are honored to welcome Elva M. Cerda, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the McAllen Heritage Center.

Elva shares the inspiring story behind the creation of the McAllen Heritage Center and the vital role it plays in preserving the rich history, culture, and traditions of McAllen and the greater Rio Grande Valley. Through historical artifacts, photographs, and community stories, the center works to ensure that the legacy of our region is not only remembered but celebrated and passed on to future generations.

During the conversation, Elva discusses the importance of community involvement in historical preservation, the vision that led to the founding of the Heritage Center, and how educational programs and exhibits help connect residents and visitors to the people and events that shaped our region.

This episode highlights how protecting our past helps strengthen community identity and pride, while creating opportunities for future generations to learn from and appreciate the history that built the Rio Grande Valley.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Saam Zarabi, Co-Founder of Rodeo Dental, to explore how a bold vision rooted in the Rio Grande Valley grew into a movement transforming the dental experience for families. What began as a simple belief — that dental care could be accessible, joyful, and community-centered — has evolved into a multi-state organization redefining how patients experience healthcare.

From arcade games and themed offices to scaling from one location to more than 50, this conversation dives into the leadership lessons, cultural commitments, and entrepreneurial mindset behind Rodeo Dental’s remarkable growth. We discuss the challenges of expansion, the significance of becoming the first Valley-founded healthcare company to earn B Corp certification, and how intentional culture-building has remained central every step of the way.

If you care about innovation in healthcare, expanding access in underserved communities, or building a mission-driven organization that puts people first, this episode offers an inspiring look at how one Valley-born idea is creating brighter smiles — and lasting impact — across the communities it serves. Tune in for a conversation about vision, growth, and the power of reimagining what healthcare can feel like for families everywhere.

In this episode, we sit down with City Manager Isaac Tawil to explore how bold vision and disciplined execution are shaping the next chapter of McAllen. Centered around the theme “Next Is Now,” the conversation highlights how investing in the fundamentals — public safety, infrastructure, water, streets, parks, and recreation — creates the foundation for transformational growth.

Tawil shares insight into record-breaking retail growth, major infrastructure investments, and airport expansion, while also emphasizing quality-of-life initiatives that set McAllen apart. From outdoor destinations like Camp McAllen to signature cultural events like MXLAN, and the hundreds of events hosted annually at the McAllen Convention Center, the city continues to strengthen both community identity and economic competitiveness.

If you’re interested in economic development, community building, and the future of South Texas, this episode offers a closer look at how strategic leadership, cultural investment, and long-term planning are positioning McAllen to compete — and thrive — on a global scale.

In this episode, we dive into the story behind Knapp Medical Center and Harlingen Medical Center earning an “A” Grade for Patient Safety from The Leapfrog Group—a mark of excellence that reflects a deep commitment to protecting families across the Rio Grande Valley. Kane Dawson, CEO of Mission Regional Medical Center, Rene Lopez, CEO of Knapp Medical Center, and Todd Mann, CEO of Harlingen Medical Center, share how leadership and engaged teams drive a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Listeners will hear about the systems, training, and transparency that empower staff to speak up when patient safety is at stake, and the investments in quality outcomes, infection control, and evidence-based practices that make Grade A care possible. As the Valley grows, this episode explores how Prime Healthcare leaders balance expanding services with maintaining the highest safety standards—ensuring families receive exceptional care without compromise.

Tune in for an inspiring look at what it takes to embed safety, accountability, and excellence into healthcare every single day.

In this episode, Karla, a member of the family behind Doña Lula, shares the story of how a small Valley food truck grew into a 17-location staple rooted in tradition, quality, and community. She reflects on the responsibility of carrying forward a 32-year legacy—one built on handmade-from-scratch recipes, fresh ingredients, and strong relationships with local producers.

Karla also opens up about the brand’s recent evolution, explaining how the new look honors their Mexican heritage through intentional design, vibrant color, and storytelling that celebrates the family’s roots. As Doña Lula prepares to expand beyond the Rio Grande Valley into Houston—and eventually franchising—she discusses the challenge of scaling without compromising the values that built the business.

From preserving culture to collaborating with fellow small businesses to strengthen the local market, this conversation explores what it truly means to grow while staying grounded.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion about family legacy, entrepreneurship, and taking Valley tradition to the next level.

In this episode, we sit down with Marissa Falcon, Educator Preparation and Development Program Administrator at Region One Education Service Center, to discuss how intentional training and meaningful mentorship are shaping the next generation of educators and campus leaders. Through a dynamic certification pathway, the conversation highlights how aspiring teachers and principals are being equipped not just to meet requirements, but to lead with confidence and purpose.

Marissa offers insight into how structured guidance, collaborative learning environments, and individualized support systems help candidates successfully navigate the certification journey. From building instructional expertise to strengthening leadership capacity, this episode explores how thoughtful preparation creates lasting impact in classrooms and schools across the region.

If you’re considering a career in education or ready to take the next step into campus leadership, this conversation provides a closer look at how comprehensive support and community-driven development are helping educators grow — and empowering them to make a difference where it matters most.

In this episode, we sit down with Judge Richard Cortez to explore how investing in people is helping shape a stronger, more resilient Valley. Through a focus on workforce development, regional partnerships, and long-term planning, the conversation highlights how the region is creating pathways for opportunity and sustainable growth.

Judge Cortez shares insight into the importance of nurturing local talent, attracting new opportunities, and building collaboration across communities to ensure progress benefits everyone. From retaining professionals to strengthening the regional economy, this episode underscores the role people play in driving the Valley forward.

If you’re invested in the future of the Rio Grande Valley, this conversation offers a closer look at how strategic leadership and community-driven efforts are creating lasting impact across the region.

In this episode, we sit down with Mayor Ochoa to explore how Edinburg continues to lead as a forward-thinking city—one that’s focused on creating new opportunities, attracting diverse industries, and making sure growth includes everyone.

Mayor Ochoa shares how the city actively supports creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals through collaboration, competitive wages, and meaningful development opportunities. From building an environment where talent can thrive to creating reasons for people to put down roots in the Valley, this conversation highlights Edinburg’s commitment to inclusive progress and long-term vision.

Whether you’re a creative, a business owner, or someone curious about the future of the Rio Grande Valley, this episode offers an inspiring look at how leadership, opportunity, and community come together to shape what’s next for Edinburg.

In this episode, Jennifer Hernandez, Community Engagement Manager at Goodwill South Texas, shares her journey in empowering individuals and strengthening communities across South Texas. She opens up about the inspiration behind Work the Runway and the transformative impact it has on participants—boosting confidence, building career readiness, and fostering a sense of belonging.

Jennifer reflects on the mentors, experiences, and values that guide her work, highlighting how programs like Work the Runway create meaningful opportunities and inspire growth. She also discusses the broader mission of Goodwill South Texas in supporting local communities and shaping pathways to success.

Whether you’re passionate about community engagement, career development, or the power of programs that uplift, this episode offers an inspiring look at how dedication, creativity, and heart can make a real difference.

Tune in for a thoughtful and uplifting conversation about opportunity, empowerment, and the positive impact of connecting people with purpose.

In this episode, Elizabeth Otero Ramirez—entrepreneur and brand & systems strategist—reflects on the professional shifts that led her from corporate problem-solver to mission-driven founder. She shares the key moments that clarified her purpose, the importance of focusing on what truly matters in business, and the leadership principles that help build sustainable, values-aligned companies.

Elizabeth also opens up about the personal side of her journey, emphasizing the role of well-being, mental clarity, and emotional integrity in effective leadership. She speaks to the need for intentional growth, human connection, and the courage to show up fully. 

Tune in for a candid and grounding conversation on evolution, clarity, and leadership that begins within.