Tulsa Talks

In this episode of Tulsa Talks, Travis Guillory shares the story of Theater Tulsa—a 103-year-old institution and the oldest nonprofit theater company in Oklahoma. From its survival through the Great Depression to today’s big productions like Hairspray, Rent, and the regional premiere of Frozen,

Theater Tulsa continues to thrive under Travis’s leadership. Travis opens up about his journey from childhood productions to becoming Executive Director, how volunteers fuel every show, and why theater matters as a living reflection of humanity. From youth programs with 300 kids a year to community collaborations, Theater Tulsa proves that passion, creativity, and people power can keep the arts alive for generations.

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In this inspiring episode of Tulsa Talks, Jessica—owner of Set the Stage—shares how she transitioned from 11 years as a realtor to launching Tulsa’s premier luxury furniture and home staging company. Her brand isn’t just about sofas and lamps—it’s about delivering a full-service, white-glove experience for realtors, investors, and homeowners alike. Whether staging high-end listings, fully furnishing short-term rentals, or partnering with designers and landscapers, Jessica curates spaces that sell and inspire. Through authenticity, teamwork, and entrepreneurial grit, Jessica is building a business—and a legacy—that thrives on relationships, not rivalry. Her vision? A streamlined, stress-free experience from purchase to final pillow. 💡 Highlights: – Staging that sells homes in days – Tailored packages for investors and out-of-state buyers – Franchising with purpose and flexibility – How she went from sales fatigue to franchise success – The power of soft leadership in a service-driven business Jessica’s journey reflects the TEN STAGES OF LIFE: HUMILITY – Leaving behind a crowded industry to find her lane. REDEMPTION – Rediscovering joy in helping others through real estate-adjacent service. POWER – Creating a business with buying power, vision boards, and execution muscle. BEING – Learning her clients’ style and delivering without overwhelm. MERCY – Serving both high-budget and modest buyers with the same care. ABUNDANCE – Operating warehouses, partnerships, and multi-state collaboration. WITNESS – Letting her work speak through satisfied clients and success stories. SOVEREIGNTY – Defining her own business rhythm, leadership model, and client focus. RECONCILIATION – No longer hustling against the grain—building with peace and pride. COMPLETION – A business built not just to function, but to flourish and serve others. 👇 Subscribe for more conversations on business, transformation, and the Tulsa spirit. #tulsatalks #setthestage #realestate #homestaging #luxuryfurniture #entrepreneurship #tulsa #shorttermrentals #franchiseowner

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In this episode of Tulsa Talks, Marlon Houston opens up about the inner journey that shaped his outer success. Once driven by people-pleasing, perfectionism, and a fear of failure, Marlon shares how childhood trauma, overachievement, and burnout collided—and how slowing down with God helped him rediscover his identity. Now an entrepreneur, creative strategist, and mentor, Marlon lives out of intention, not insecurity. He invites others to move beyond performance and lean into authenticity, spiritual alignment, and emotional maturity. Marlon’s story reflects the TEN STAGES OF LIFE: HUMILITY – Early achievements masked deep pain, until God invited him to rest. REDEMPTION – He broke free from overfunctioning and began to heal old stories. POWER – True strength came when he learned to say no and protect his peace. BEING – Marlon embraced who he was apart from what he produced. MERCY – He stopped being everyone’s answer and started showing up whole. ABUNDANCE – He now walks in clarity, creativity, and spiritual prosperity. WITNESS – Marlon mentors others who are navigating high-functioning burnout. SOVEREIGNTY – With discernment and faith, he moves only when led. RECONCILIATION – He made peace with his story and gives others space to do the same. COMPLETION – “You don’t have to strive for worth,” he says. “You already are.” 👇 Subscribe for more stories of faith, clarity, and the power of inner healing. #tulsatalks #completepiecemovement #emotionalhealth #faithjourney #innerhealing #identity #blackmentalhealth #traumahealing #mentorship #tulsa #burnoutrecovery

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From martial arts to Native history, from the Holocaust to homelessness, Frank Camuti brings a thoughtful, unfiltered lens to one of life’s most loaded questions: What is the truth? In this episode of Tulsa Talks, Craig and Frank explore whether truth is universal or individual, heavy or freeing—and why some truths demand more from us than we’re ready to give. Together, they weave personal stories, historical insight, and cultural commentary into a wide-reaching conversation that challenges assumptions and invites deeper reflection. Frank’s reflections mirror the TEN STAGES OF LIFE: HUMILITY – “Can I even handle the truth?” The conversation begins by questioning our own perspectives. REDEMPTION – He sees the truth not just as freedom—but as weight that readies us for transformation. POWER – After 50+ years in martial arts, Frank shares that true strength lies in discipline, not dominance. BEING – He speaks candidly about how society defines “truth” and who gets to say what’s real. MERCY – Frank exposes painful realities on reservations and among homeless communities—urging compassion. ABUNDANCE – Eternal life, he says, may come not from doctrine—but from continuity, legacy, and presence. WITNESS – Through lived experience and cultural understanding, Frank becomes a voice for forgotten truths. SOVEREIGNTY – Some people don’t want help—and some truths may never be fully known. That’s part of life. RECONCILIATION – He believes healing must meet people where they are—not where we think they should be. COMPLETION – “We are all one piece.” Truth, though heavy, can anchor us to something worth building on. 👇 Subscribe to Tulsa Talks for thought-provoking interviews that stretch the mind and stir the soul. #TulsaTalks #WhatIsTruth #CompletePeaceMovement #Homelessness #MartialArtsWisdom #NativeVoices #CulturalPerspective #IAmOnePiece

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In this deeply moving episode of Tulsa Talks, we meet Russell Roland, an addictions counselor and social activist who was born blind. Russell’s story isn't just about overcoming adversity—it's about choosing love, purpose, and healing, again and again. From navigating a world not built for him, to guiding others out of addiction and into identity, Russell teaches us the strength of active listening, empathy, and radical acceptance. This is more than a conversation—it’s a lesson in how to see with your heart. Humility – Russell lost his father at 14 and entered what he calls his “angry blind phase,” but never lost the will to try. Redemption – Rejected by his first university dream of becoming a Spanish teacher, Russell found a greater calling in counseling. Power – With a master’s degree and a story of perseverance, he now leads others through addiction recovery with honesty and strength. Being – Russell doesn’t want to be your inspiration—he wants to be seen as human: a man with struggles, purpose, and worth. Mercy – He offers grace to his clients, helping them break free from shame and rewrite the story of their past. Abundance – Former clients are now his coworkers—proof that healing can multiply when shared in community. Witness – Russell leads by listening, not telling—modeling the power of questions that unlock a person’s own truth. Sovereignty – Though blind, he sees people more clearly than most—choosing to look past the surface and into the soul. Reconciliation – Through pain, Russell has found purpose. Through trauma, he helps others find freedom. Completion – His heart for others reflects the love of God: “I choose to see beyond the addiction, beyond the past—I choose to see the person.” #HealingWithPurpose #BlindButNotBroken #AddictionRecoveryJourney #RadicalAcceptance #LoveOverAdversity #EmpathyHeals #ListenToUnderstand #PurposeInPain #IdentityRestored #GuidedByGrace

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In this powerful and transparent episode of Tulsa Talks, Dominic Patrick shares his raw journey through addiction, brokenness, and finally—freedom. Raised in church but pulled into a lifestyle of drinking, partying, and pain, Dominic found himself trapped in a cycle of DUIs and self-destruction. But through the love of his father, a powerful men's meeting, and a divine encounter with Pastor Peoples, his life was radically transformed. Dominic’s story is one of honesty, redemption, and finding real freedom in Christ, not just religion. His testimony is a mirror for anyone still in the fight and a beacon of hope for those ready to break free. His journey reflects the 10 Stages of Life: Humility: Realizing the “fun” lifestyle was destroying his future. Redemption: Facing two DUIs and deciding he was made for more. Power: Recognizing God's protection even in his darkest choices. Being: Embracing his identity as more than his mistakes. Mercy: Receiving grace from God, family, and a judge who gave him a second chance. Abundance: Finding purpose through men's ministry and connection. Witness: Telling his story with vulnerability to inspire others. Sovereignty: Seeing God’s hand guiding him—even when he was running. Reconciliation: Reconnecting with his faith, his family, and his calling. Completion: Living in freedom and helping others find their path out. 🎙️ Tulsa Talks – Real people. Real truth. Real connection. 👉 Like, subscribe, and share if you believe healing is possible for everyone. #tulsatalks #addictionrecovery #freedominchrist #10StagesOfLife #mensministry #TransparencyHeals #redemptionstory #CompletePeaceMovement #DUITestimony #lifechange #sobrietyjourney

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In this inspiring episode of Tulsa Talks, we sit down with Robert Lake from Bedford Camera & Video to explore the powerful resurgence of film photography in a digital world. From seasoned artists to curious newcomers, Robert helps people rediscover the joy of creating something real—one frame at a time. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just exploring a new hobby, this conversation reveals how tangible art forms like film can reawaken our passion, purpose, and presence. Humility – Robert meets each customer where they are, honoring every journey—from “I don’t know what I’m doing” to “Let’s make something beautiful.” Redemption – Film photography, once nearly extinct, is being revived by a generation tired of over-editing and craving authenticity. Power – With nearly two decades at Bedford, Robert empowers people to find their creative spark—without upsells or pressure. Being – Photography becomes a way to pause, reflect, and capture a moment with intentionality and meaning. Mercy – Customers are given grace to learn and explore, even when they’re just starting out or using equipment others might dismiss. Abundance – From camera classes to one-on-one support, Bedford is more than a store—it’s a creative community. Witness – Robert shares stories of helping people rediscover their purpose through creativity, from retirees to new parents. Sovereignty – In a world of fast tech, Robert encourages slowing down and trusting the artistic process to unfold. Reconciliation – Teaching how to preserve negatives and organize memories helps people reconnect with their past—and themselves. Completion – With film in hand and creativity reignited, customers walk away not just with photos—but with a renewed sense of self. #FilmIsNotDead #AnalogRevival #ShootFilmStayBroke 😂 #OneFrameAtATime #RediscoverTheReal #CreativeReawakening #FilmPhotographyLove #MakeItTangible #ThroughTheLens #BackToTheDarkroom

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In this powerful episode of Tulsa Talks, longtime State Farm agent Brent Hagar shares his 18-year journey of building a business from scratch, guided by faith, integrity, and service. From storm seasons to startup struggles, Brent reveals what it takes to grow a business that puts people first—and how supporting your competition might just be the secret to lasting success. Brent’s story is a roadmap for entrepreneurs, showing that sustainable growth isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about building people, trusting the process, and letting faith lead. You don’t rise by holding others down. You rise by helping others rise. Humility – Starting from zero customers, Brent stepped into the unknown with only faith and a calling to serve. Redemption – Leaving corporate life behind, he chose a path aligned with his values—one that honored people over profits. Power – Launching a State Farm agency, he poured sweat equity into building a service-driven business from the ground up. Being – Learning to wear many hats, then gradually passing them to a well-trained team rooted in excellence and care. Mercy – Navigating devastating storms and helping clients recover—always with empathy, fairness, and integrity. Abundance – Growing from 2 to 12 employees while mentoring others to launch businesses of their own. Witness – Advocating for healthy competition: "When your neighbor wins, the whole community rises." Sovereignty – Trusting in God's plan through weather, economic shifts, and the seasons of business. Reconciliation – Coaching business owners to get aligned from the start—personally, professionally, and financially. Completion – Living out his mission as a servant-leader, showing that success built on service creates lasting impact. #FaithInBusiness #EntrepreneurJourney #ServantLeadership #BusinessWithPurpose #RiseByLiftingOthers #PurposeOverProfit #ChristianEntrepreneur #CommunityOverCompetition #SmallBusinessTips #SuccessStory #tulsatalks

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In this insightful episode of Tulsa Talks, training and development consultant Walt Hansman shares how structure, process, and people-centered leadership can transform entire systems—from the State of Massachusetts’ paid family and medical leave program to small businesses right here in Oklahoma. With decades of experience in procedure writing, virtual learning, and people development, Walt shows how we can all adapt, lead, and grow—even when change feels overwhelming. If you’ve ever wanted to improve how your organization functions or how you personally navigate life’s transitions, this one’s for you. Humility – Recognizing the uncertainty of layoffs, Walt started over—choosing faith in his ability to build something better. Redemption – From being sick at the start of COVID to rebuilding in a virtual world, he turned disruption into development. Power – Helping launch one of the nation’s first paid family leave programs, impacting lives across an entire state. Being – Embracing his true gift: empowering others through training, clarity, and communication. Mercy – Honoring each learner’s pace, creating systems that extend grace while producing results. Abundance – From major contracts to personal coaching, Walt proves that giving structure gives freedom. Witness – Now offering leadership programs locally, he equips teams to listen better, lead better, and live better. Sovereignty – Trusting that process and purpose are aligned, even when paths seem uncertain or unexpected. Reconciliation – Showing organizations how to revise outdated systems and people how to rewrite their internal scripts. Completion – Building a legacy of service where structure meets soul, proving that transformation is a team effort. #LeadWithPurpose #SystemicTransformation #PeopleCenteredLeadership #ProcessMatters #AdaptAndThrive #StructureCreatesFreedom #OrganizeToOptimize #ChangeChampions #GrowthThroughChange #CompletePieceLeadership

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In this powerful return to Tulsa Talks, Russell Roland opens up about the daily realities of being blind in a world that often assumes, overlooks, or ignores people with disabilities. As a working professional and counselor, Russell shares the logistical and emotional burdens of navigating Tulsa Transit, inaccessible restaurant menus, and outdated government systems—all while paying out of pocket for services that others might take for granted. This episode is more than a call for change—it’s a challenge to listen, learn, and lead better. Humility – Russell doesn’t just live with a disability—he lives with purpose, knowing that asking for help takes strength. Redemption – Instead of accepting limitations, he finds creative ways to work around broken systems that weren’t designed with him in mind. Power – Russell uses technology like the IRA app and Apple VoiceOver to advocate for himself—and now, for others. Being – He isn’t just surviving—he’s working, commuting, paying taxes, and reminding the world that people with disabilities are diverse and capable. Mercy – Even after being dismissed by transit officials and excluded from key conversations, Russell chooses education over resentment. Abundance – “We’re not all living off a check.” Russell’s voice represents a larger community of disabled individuals contributing every day. Witness – By sharing his story, he helps others understand what it really means to live blind in a sighted world. Sovereignty – Despite systemic challenges, Russell stands firm in his identity, advocating not for pity, but progress. Reconciliation – "You’re blind and you’re telling me I’m blind to this." Craig’s honest realization is a reminder: we grow when we listen deeply to each other. Completion – Russell invites us to reimagine accessibility, not as an obligation—but as an opportunity to see others more clearly.

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