Casting The NET

Food truck operators across Texas are preparing for a major change as the state transitions to a new statewide permitting system for Mobile Food Units (MFUs). But what does that mean for vendors here in East Texas? In this episode of Casting the NET , Environmental Health Director Ginger Points and Registered Sanitarian Jonathan Barena discuss the upcoming changes, including the Texas Department o...

In this episode of Casting the NET , we sit down with Tammy Proctor, MS, RD, LD, Nutrition Education Coordinator with NET Health WIC, to talk about the return of the WIC Farmers Market Program. With farmers market season right around the corner, Tammy breaks down what WIC families can expect this year, how the program works, who qualifies, and how eligible participants can use vouchers to purchase...

In this episode, we’re joined by Kayla with iTri365 and Joy Johnson, Assistant Director of NET Health’s Center for Healthy Living , to talk about the Take Heart Run and how events like this play a powerful role in supporting community wellness. We discuss: The mission behind iTri365 and community-focused running events How the Take Heart Run supports heart health and physical activity Why the begi...

When emergencies strike—whether it’s a tornado, flood, or prolonged power outage—preparedness can make all the difference. In this episode of Casting the NET , we sit down with Brandon Moore , Smith County’s Emergency Management Coordinator, and Russell Hopkins , Director of Public Health Emergency Preparedness at NET Health. Together, we explore the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (S...

In this episode, we sit down with representatives from the Sustainable Food Center (SFC) to explore the Double Up Food Bucks program — a powerful initiative that helps SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) participants stretch their food dollars while supporting local farmers . This episode unpacks how the program works, where it’s available in East Texas, and how it brings healthier ch...

In this episode, hosts Thomas Alford and Terrence Ates unpack how employers across East Texas can create healthier, more supportive workplaces. From Mother-Friendly Worksite certification to better food options in the breakroom , we spotlight how these simple steps can lead to lasting health impacts—and even statewide recognition. Topics covered: What makes a workplace “Mother-Friendly” How food c...

In this episode of Casting the NET , we sit down with two very special guests—twin sisters who both serve as Nutritionists in our WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) department here at NET Health. Together, they share their journey into public health, what it’s like working side by side as twins, and how their work helps shape healthier futures for families across East Texas. From supporting new mo...

In the season finale of Casting the NET , we’re honored to sit down with George T., Roberts Jr, CEO of NET Health for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Throughout this season, we’ve explored the incredible work of department directors who drive the public health mission forward. Now, we’re closing the season by going straight to the top. In this episode, our CEO reflects on NET Health’s re...

In this powerful follow-up episode of Casting the NET , we sit down with Tecora Smith, the inspiring Director of WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) at NET Health. As a former WIC mom who worked her way up to lead the program, Tecora’s passion for supporting families and improving maternal and infant health in East Texas shines through in every word. In Part One, we explored the services and missio...

We sit down with Russell Hopkins, Director of Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP), to explore the vital role of emergency readiness in public health. This conversation offers a high-level, “30,000-foot view” of PHEP, highlighting the essential strategies and frameworks that help us stay prepared for the unforeseen. Join us as we dive into a variety of topics, including: The fundamentals of...

We’re back with Part 2 of our Environmental Health series. This time, we sit down with Ginger Points , Director of our Environmental Health Department at NET Health. In this episode, Ginger shares her journey to becoming the director of the Environmental Health Department, what her role entails, and dives deep into the crucial services her team provides to protect public health in Northeast Texas....

We speak with Joy Johnson, Director of the Center for Healthy Living. Join us as we explore the transformative programs that are empowering East Texans to live healthier, happier lives. From diabetes education to building better daily habits, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Whether you're looking to make a lifestyle change or just curious about local health initiatives, you w...

Join us for an informative and engaging episode as we sit down with Rosie Meza to explore the vital statistics department and its crucial role in our community. We dive into what exactly vital statistics are, how to obtain a birth or death certificate, the various reasons you might need these documents, and the process of recording them. Rosie shares her expertise from six years in the vital stati...

Celebrate the journey of fatherhood with our Peer Dad Program in "Peer Dad: The Value of Fatherhood." This special episode features guests Jason Rhodes and Alex Espinosa, who share their experiences as both expecting and seasoned fathers. As we gear up for Father's Day, discover the support, fellowship, and valuable lessons that the Peer Dad Program offers to dads at every stage of their journey....

We sit down with Jenny Lassiter, Assistant Director of WIC, to explore the essential services provided by our Women, Infants, and Children department Join us as we delve into how WIC supports the nutritional needs of families, offers breastfeeding support, and promotes healthy habits for women and children. Gain valuable insights into the eligibility criteria, benefits, and impact of WIC on commun...

We sit down with one of our very own Registered Sanitarians (Jonathan Barena) to get a peek behind the scenes and a look at all the various inspections that our Environmental Health Department covers. https://www.mynethealth.org/services/environmental-health/environmental-health-overview/ EnvironmentalHealth@netphd.org EH # - (903) 535 - 0037 CastingtheNET@netphd.org

Join us as we dive into the world of public health in East Texas. MyNETHealth.org Inquiries: CastingtheNET@netphd.org

The Northeast Texas Public Health District has an official Podcast! Coming soon.