HEY ETX

What happens when faith meets football in East Texas? 🙌🏈This week on HEY ETX Spotlight, Anthony McElroy of Impact Events and Coach Chris Cochran of Lindale High School share how they're investing in the next generation — one event, one team, one student at a time. With speakers like Colt McCoy and Greg McElroy coming to Texas THIS SUMMER, these aren't just sporting events. They're li...

What happens when you mix hunting guides, legendary fishermen, family-friendly activities, and the gospel all under one roof in East Texas? You get God & The Great Outdoors — and it's coming to Longview for the very first time. In this episode of HEY ETX Spotlight, Brandon sits down with Tom Williams, director of God & The Great Outdoors, to talk about East Texas' premier faith and...

What do you do when grief feels like it's going to swallow you whole? For Karen Holland, the answer was purpose. In this episode of HEY ETX Spotlight, Brandon sits down with Karen Holland, President of the Fat Boy Foundation — a nonprofit created in memory of her son Jonathan, a driven, trade-passionate young man from Henderson, Texas, who lost his life in a tragic car accident in November 202...

From dairy manager to catering king — Chance Alexander's story is one you need to hear. He felt God calling him toward food, said yes, and built Chance's Kitchen from scratch in Longview, TX. Now he's feeding crowds of 850, perfecting his cast-iron jambalaya, slinging Biscoff cheesecakes at Christmas, and bringing big-hearted hospitality to every table he sets. We sat down with Chance...

Pastors carry so much for so many — but who takes care of them? We sat down with Gregg Zackary, Oasis Pastor at Oasis in the Pines in Longview, TX, and his story will move you. After 46 years in ministry — including his own battle with burnout and depression — Gregg helped create a one-of-a-kind retreat ministry right here in East Texas, designed specifically to restore and renew Christian leaders...

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 d...

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...

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 athl...

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 commun...

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 sto...

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 exp...

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...

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 peop...

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...

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...

Cace’s Kitchen isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a piece of Longview history that never stopped moving forward. Brandon sits down with Cathy and Chelsea Cace to talk about preserving family recipes, rebuilding after the Highway 80 closure, and what it takes to run a multi-generation restaurant in East Texas today. Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/ #HEYETX #Podca...

Welcome to the Season 4 premiere of HEY ETX Podcast! 🎙️In this episode, Brandon Watson sits down with Dr. Stacy Martin, the newly appointed interim president of Kilgore College. Dr. Martin shares her East Texas roots, her 25-year journey at KC, and her vision for leading with stability, integrity, and student-first purpose during this transition season. You’ll also hear how Kilgore College is serv...

Discover what’s fresh and new in Longview! Today, we’re joined by Tom DeVries, Senior Vice President of Merchandising at Brookshire Grocery Company, to explore the grand opening of Fresh by Brookshire’s—the latest grocery destination bringing quality, variety, and community spirit to East Texas. Hear how this innovative store is redefining the local shopping experience and why it’s such a win for...

Experience the heart and harmony of East Texas as we go behind the scenes of "Sounds of the Season" with Tim Whedbee and Ryker Dillard from Mobberly Baptist Church. Discover how this beloved Christmas musical brings together choir, orchestra, and community to celebrate the true meaning Christmas. Hear stories of faith, fun, and the power of local connection that make this event a highlig...

SEASON 3 FINALE! In this episode, we sit down with Matthew Hill, founder of The Hill Law Firm, to explore his journey from Pine Tree Pirate to trusted legal advocate, and how his faith and local pride shape every case. Discover how Matthew’s story, values, and commitment to serving others make a difference for families and businesses across our region. Tune in for inspiration, laughs, and a celebr...

Step inside the heart of East Texas and meet Kimberly Weinert, the passionate founder of Joyful Noise Music Studio in downtown Longview. Discover how Kimberly’s journey, faith, and love for music have inspired a thriving community where students of all ages find their rhythm, voice, and creativity. From humble beginnings to a bustling hub for music and art, this episode celebrates the people, stor...

Are you ready for a story of grit, growth, and prayer? Join us as Chad & Rachael Reeves of Shivers Natural Snow return to share how a whirlwind year of challenges, faith, and big dreams has transformed their East Texas business—and their lives. From overcoming personal hurdles to landing new partners and scaling up, this episode is a celebration of perseverance, God's provision, and the power...

Are you ready to be inspired by real stories of hope and transformation in East Texas? Join us as we sit down with Geoffrey Davis, Executive Director of Hope Road Counseling and Campus Pastor at Mobberly’s Marshall location, to explore how faith, counseling, and community come together to make a difference. Discover how local leaders are meeting real needs and building a stronger, more compassiona...

Step inside the heart of East Texas as we chat with Macy Bannert, the creative force behind Wild Honey Creamery in Longview. Discover how Macy turned her passion for community and handcrafted, locally sourced ice cream into an award-winning small business that’s become a local favorite. From humble beginnings to overcoming challenges, this episode is a celebration of resilience, flavor, and the po...

Discover the heart of Kilgore, Texas, as we sit down with Megan Payne, the city’s passionate Tourism and Marketing Manager. From vibrant festivals and iconic murals to the stories behind the “City of Stars,” this episode celebrates the people and places that make Kilgore shine. Whether you’re a local or just curious about East Texas, you’ll find inspiration, community pride, and plenty of reasons...