Spotlight Houston

Looking for the perfect outdoor escape in the heart of Houston? In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada sits down with Kyle Wolfe, Chief Operating Officer of Hermann Park Conservancy, to explore one of Houston's most iconic and beloved green spaces: Hermann Park. Kyle walks us through the park's incredible journey since its founding in 1914. He shares how the park has evolved to...

What do a unicorn, a thousand trees, and an ice cream truck have in common? They're all real wishes granted by Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana—a nonprofit that's been bringing hope, strength, and joy to kids with critical illnesses since 1984. In Episode 137 of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada chats with Shelley Millwee, President & CEO of the local Make-A-Wish chapter. With over...

This week on Spotlight Houston, we're rolling back to the most popular episode of Season 3! Originally released as Episode 122 on January 27, 2025, this fan-favorite features an inspiring and informative conversation with Melody Torno, Development Director for the American Heart Association Houston, and Ally Babineaux, also known as the courageous "Bionic Bride." You'll learn about the different t...

Get ready to fiesta, Houston! This week on Spotlight Houston, we're taking you inside the 2025 Cinco de Mayo East End Street Fest, one of Houston's biggest family-friendly celebrations! Host Blanca Quezada chats with Lupe Olivares, Festival Director, about everything this FREE event has to offer. Experience live shows from Grammy-winning Sunny Sauceda, the rock-Latin fusion band Del Castillo, and...

Looking for a vibrant, family-friendly event in the Houston area this spring? In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada interviews Stacy Borgfeldt, co-founder of the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation, about the highly anticipated 2025 Sugar Land Arts and Music Fest. Taking place April 26–27, 2025, at the Smart Financial Centre Plaza, the Sugar Land Arts and Music Fest brings toge...

What happens when someone finally says, "I need help"? In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada talks with Celinda Guerra from the Houston Area Women's Center (HAWC) about how they help people heal from domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. HAWC provides free, private help for women, children, and men who are facing abuse. Celinda shares how their team offers emo...

What really happened during the 18-minute Battle of San Jacinto? In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada talks with David Avila, Director of Museum Operations at the San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield Association, to uncover the true story behind the battle that changed Texas forever. They explore how General Sam Houston's Texian army surprised Santa Anna's troops, the tough cond...

Would you know what to do if someone stopped breathing? In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada talks with Gail Gould, also known as the CPR and Safety Lady. Gail is a nationally certified CPR and first aid instructor who has spent more than 30 years teaching life-saving skills to over 10,000 people in Houston and beyond. Gail shares how she started her career in CPR training, wh...

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Mission to Cure & Support In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada sits down with Tatyana Chowbay from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to talk about how the organization is fighting to cure blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Tatyana shares the history of LLS, her personal connection to the cause, and how LLS supports both pa...

Did you know that Houston has a "Mother"—not just the Allen Brothers? Or that a woman was behind Houston's first fully air-conditioned office building? In this special Women's History Month episode, historian Mister McKinney joins host Blanca Quezada to share the untold stories of 158 women who shaped Houston in business, law, medicine, arts, philanthropy, education, and more. From Charlotte Baldw...

If you're looking for the perfect spring break destination, look no further than Moody Gardens in Galveston! With its three iconic glass pyramids, stunning tropical environments, and action-packed experiences, this Texas gem offers adventure for visitors of all ages. In this episode, Jared Schaller, Public Relations Manager for Moody Gardens, joins host Blanca Quezada to share everything you need...

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo returns for its 93rd year in 2025, bringing world-class rodeo competitions , an impressive concert lineup , and tons of exciting activities for all ages. Beyond the action-packed events, the Houston Rodeo contributes significantly to Houston's economy by awarding millions in scholarships to students, supporting local businesses, and preserving the region's Texa...

Colon cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer in both men and women—but it's also one of the most preventable. With early detection, a simple colonoscopy could save your life. Yet, many people don't realize screening should start at age 45. In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada talks with Keith Rollins, founder of the Push Up Foundation and a stage 3 colon cancer survivor. Ke...

A cancer diagnosis changes everything—families are thrown into a whirlwind of medical decisions, financial strain, and emotional turmoil. But they don't have to go through it alone. In this episode of Spotlight Houston , host Blanca Quezada sits down with Alec Lloyd, Director of Development for B.I.G. Love Cancer Care. They discuss how this nonprofit is meeting the most urgent physical and financi...

Did you know that African American soldiers have fought in every major U.S. conflict since the American Revolution? In honor of Black History Month, host Blanca Quezada sits down with Dr. Michelle Tovar, Director of Education at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, to explore the rich history of Black military service—and why it's a story that needs to be told. Dr. Tovar shares the fascinating or...

Step back in time and uncover Houston's rich Black history with The Heritage Society! In this episode, host Blanca Quezada talks with Martha Whiting-Goddard, Kijana Wiseman, and Dr. Ron Williams—three remarkable individuals dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of Houston's African American pioneers. Meet Martha Whiting-Goddard, a descendant of Reverend Jack Yates, one of the founders of...

February is American Heart Month, and we're spotlighting the work of the American Heart Association! Host Blanca Quezada is joined by Melody Torno, development director for the American Heart Association Houston, and Ally Babineaux, the courageous "Bionic Bride," to talk about the fight for better heart health. Learn about the different types of heart disease, from congenital issues in babies to c...

Thinking about buying a diamond but don't know where to start? In this sparkling episode, our host Blanca Quezada sits down with Fred Cuellar, founder and CEO of Diamond Cutters International, to uncover everything you need to know before making your next big purchase. Fred, a world-renowned diamond expert with clients like the Saudi Royal Family and Katy Perry, shares insider tips on spotting the...

In this special replay episode, we spotlight Nerdy Girl Success, a nonprofit inspiring young woman to dream big and lead boldly. Founder Christina Meade shares her journey from science teacher to champion of change, creating programs that empower girls to explore careers, build leadership skills, and break barriers. High school senior Whitney Ijeh also joined the conversation, sharing how the orga...

What does 2025 have in store for us? In this eye-opening episode of Spotlight Houston, psychic, medium, and teacher Fernando Marron joins host Blanca Quezada to share his bold predictions for the year ahead. From political shifts and global transformations to the rise of Mexico as an economic powerhouse, Fernando offers a glimpse into what the future might hold. Fernando shares how his psychic abi...

It's the final episode of 2024, and we're wrapping up the year with a highlight reel of the top 5 most popular episodes from Spotlight Houston ! Host Blanca Quezada takes you on a journey through the stories, insights, and impactful conversations that stood out this year. From mental health awareness to rodeo traditions, sun safety tips, and community care programs, there's something for everyone...

Step into a world of glowing colors, dazzling lanterns, and natural beauty at the Houston Botanic Garden! In this episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada welcomes Justin Lacey, Director of Communications & Community Engagement, to uncover the wonders of Radiant Nature. This breathtaking lantern light exhibit features over 55 illuminated installations, including vibrant flowers, whimsical...

In this festive episode of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada chats with Frankie Ortega, Marketing Director at Discovery Green, about the incredible events and activities lighting up Houston's beloved downtown park this holiday season. Whether you're seeking holiday cheer, family fun, or a little magic, Discovery Green has something for everyone! Frankie shares the story of the park's transfor...

In this heartwarming episode, host Blanca Quezada sits down with Gaye Jackson, Executive Director of The Mission of Yahweh, a Houston nonprofit changing lives for over 60 years. Learn how this organization provides homeless women and children with emergency shelter, job training, education, and counseling to help them rebuild and thrive. Gaye shares inspiring stories of resilience, like a single m...

The holidays are here, and while they bring joy, they can also stir up stress, anxiety, and even loneliness. How can we take care of our mental health during this emotional season? Dr. Sean Fitzpatrick, psychotherapist and executive director of the Jung Center, joins Blanca Quezada to share practical tips for managing holiday blues, handling family stress, and embracing self-compassion. Discover h...