From nurses and youth ministers to farm owners welcoming all of East Texas — Brian and Brooke Hopkins are building something truly special just outside of Hallsville. Rise and Shine Hills is a healing homestead rooted in 100 years of family history, where families can wander free-range pastures, shop farm-fresh goods, attend hands-on classes, and find a rare kind of peace that doesn't cost a dime. This one will make your heart full.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/

Kelly Hall has spent 21 years building something Longview can be genuinely proud of — and she's just getting started. As CEO of the Longview Chamber of Commerce, Kelly shares how the Chamber went back to its roots to truly serve East Texas businesses, why Longview's faith-driven identity sets it apart from every other city, and what it takes to lead an organization into its next generation of impact. This one is packed with wisdom, heart, and a whole lot of local pride.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/#HEYETX #Podcast #EastTexas #SupportLocal #CommunityVoices #ETXStories #LongviewTexas #ChamberOfCommerce #BusinessLeadership #EconomicDevelopment #WomenInLeadership #FaithAndBusiness #LongviewChamber #EastTexasBusiness #CivicLeadership

From cheerleader at Tyler Junior College to president of East Texas Baptist University — Dr. Blair Blackburn's journey back to the Piney Woods is a story of calling, faith, and deep roots in East Texas. In this episode, we sit down with ETBU President Dr. Blair Blackburn to explore the rich legacy of the university, its growing programs in business, nursing, and theological education, how athletics are being used as a platform for missions, and the bold vision for ETBU's future in Marshall and beyond. If you've ever wondered what makes a small Christian university one of the most impactful institutions in East Texas, this conversation will show you.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/

LaJuan Gordon shares how Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity has served over 1,000 households since 1985, building affordable homes, making critical repairs, and empowering families across Gregg, Harrison, and Upshur Counties. From humble grassroots beginnings at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church to today's expanded mission, discover how Habitat partners with families, volunteers, and the community to create lasting change—one home, one relationship, and one story of hope at a time.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/

Step inside a beloved East Texas tradition that's back and better than ever. Terrence Dixon, Vice President of Corporate Administration and Community Involvement at Brookshire Grocery Company, takes us through the newly reopened Brookshire's Wildlife Museum in Tyler—a free, family-friendly destination featuring over 150 animals from around the world, plus a nostalgic replica of a 1900s country store. Learn why this museum matters to the community and what makes it a must-visit for families, school groups, and anyone who loves local history and wildlife education.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/#HEYETX #Podcast #EastTexas #SupportLocal #CommunityVoices #ETXStories #BrookshiresGrocery #WildlifeMuseum #TylerTX #FamilyFriendly #FreeAttraction #EastTexasHistory #EducationalTravel #CommunityLeadership

Debbie Maxey has spent decades shaping lives in East Texas classrooms and beyond. From her years as a beloved educator and principal at Tatum ISD to co-owning the iconic Jucys Hamburgers, Debbie's commitment to service runs deep. Now, she's taking that same heart overseas through God Link—a mission providing food, clean water, education, and hope to children in Zambia. In this conversation, we explore how faith, family, and a passion for people have defined her remarkable journey.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/#HEYETX #Podcast #EastTexas #SupportLocal #CommunityVoices #ETXStories #DebbieMaxy #TatumISD #JucysHamburgers #GodLink #Zambia #MissionWork #Education #LocalBusiness #EastTexasLeaders #FaithInAction #CommunityImpact #ETXEducation

From a backyard workshop to national recognition, Shaun Baker's journey with Antlerworx proves that East Texas craftsmanship can compete on the world stage. Discover how this White Oak business transforms naturally shed antlers into stunning custom chandeliers, furniture, and décor for celebrities, designers, and homes across the country—all while staying rooted in faith, family, and community values.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/#HEYETX #Podcast #EastTexas #SupportLocal #CommunityVoices #ETXStories #Antlerworx #WhiteOak #CustomFurniture #RusticDecor #HandcraftedLighting #SmallBusinessSuccess #FaithInBusiness #EastTexasEntrepreneur #AntlerChandeliers #LocalCraftsmanship #ChristianBusiness #ETXPride

Robbie Shoults shares the incredible 83-year journey of Bear Creek Smokehouse, a Marshall institution that started in 1943 when his grandparents raised turkeys on their East Texas farm. From humble beginnings selling turkeys out of roasting pans to becoming a beloved destination for smoked meats, a sprawling general store, and authentic Texas hospitality, this family legacy continues to bring people together over great food and community spirit.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/#HEYETX #Podcast #EastTexas #SupportLocal #CommunityVoices #ETXStories #BearCreekSmokehouse #MarshallTX #TexasBBQ #SmokehouseTradition #FamilyBusiness #EastTexasFood #TexasHospitality #SmokeMeats

Paula Florcyzkowski is turning a life-altering diagnosis into hope through Finn's Friends, a nonprofit supporting families facing Duchenne muscular dystrophy. After her son Finn's diagnosis, Paula and her husband Dan launched a movement that's given over $250,000 to families across the country—providing wheelchair-accessible vans, home modifications, and financial relief. Hear how one East Texas family is making an extraordinary difference, one connection at a time.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/#HEYETX #Podcast #EastTexas #SupportLocal #CommunityVoices #ETXStories #FinnsRiends #DuchenneMuscularDystrophy #Nonprofit #FamilySupport #EastTexasHeroes #Longview #Tyler #Kilgore #FaithAndFamily #MakingADifference

Tyler's story is told through the people who love it most. Loni Lilley, Marketing Manager for Visit Tyler, shares how she went from teaching graphic design to promoting one of East Texas' most beloved cities—and why Tyler's heart, history, and hometown feel make it a destination worth discovering. From the Rose Festival and Azalea Trails to new events like the Brick Street Revival and the growing rodeo scene, Loni gives us an inside look at what makes Tyler special and what's coming in 2026.Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/#HEYETX #Podcast #EastTexas #SupportLocal #CommunityVoices #ETXStories #VisitTyler #TylerTexas #TylerTX #EastTexasTourism #RoseCapital #AzaleaTrails #TylerRoseFestival #CityMarketing #TourismMarketing #LoniLilley #DowntownTyler #EastTexasDestinations #TylerEvents #SmallTownVibes