HEY ETX

Discover the heart and hospitality of East Texas as we sit down with Lori Howeth, co-owner of Ivy Acres—a new family-owned venue in Harleton, TX, where celebrations and community come together. Hear Lori’s inspiring journey from small-town roots to building a beloved gathering place, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the passion and family teamwork that make Ivey Acres truly special. Whether you...

This week on HEY ETX Podcast, we sit down with Mandy Brasher, owner of The Platform—a vibrant hub for 40+ local entrepreneurs in Longview, TX. Hear how Mandy’s faith and passion for community are helping small businesses thrive and bringing new life to downtown. Whether you’re a local, a small business supporter, or just love a good comeback story, this episode is for you! Drop a comment with your...

Step into the legacy of the Kilgore College Rangerettes with Director Dana Blair! Discover how this iconic East Texas dance team inspires generations, upholds tradition, and shapes strong, confident women. From halftime shows to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Texas State Fair, and the Cotton Bowl, their story is one of rich history, passion, discipline, and pride.

Ken Chinn’s journey is a celebration of faith, family, and the power of community. In this episode, we dive into his story—from overcoming adversity to founding the Chinn Guitar Project and making a difference in East Texas. Watch, comment, and share your own story below—let’s keep our community strong and connected! Discover more local stories and stay connected: https://heyetx.vista.page/HEYETXP...

What does it take to build a business that lasts generations? Don Thedford of Don’s TV & Appliance shares his journey of faith, family, and service in East Texas. From overcoming challenges to creating a legacy of trust, Don’s story is a reminder of the power of community and perseverance. Share your thoughts or favorite Don’s TV moments in the comment —let’s keep the East Texas spirit alive!...

We’re kicking off the HEY ETX Spotlight with Alyssa Conner of 903 Pumpkins! 🎃 Alyssa’s story is all about creativity, community, and making East Texas a little brighter (and more festive). Watch as she shares how her small business delivers, designs, and removes beautiful fall displays for homes and storefronts across the region. Drop a comment, share your favorite fall tradition, and support loc...

Get to know the founders of Local Roots Collective, Korinna Duke and Katie Soape! In this episode, we explore their story of friendship, faith, and building a business that champions East Texas small businesses. Hear their insights on social media, community, and what it means to support local. Share your favorite East Texas business in the comments and join the conversation! Discover more local s...

Join us for a warm, community-centered conversation with David Hernandez and Gary Ford of Woolley G’s Bike and Fitness! 🚲 Hear how they’re building a cycling culture in Longview, supporting riders of all levels, and keeping the spirit of East Texas alive. From small business stories to group rides and local impact, this episode is packed with inspiration and a sense of local pride. Follow us, sha...

In this special Bonus Episode of HEY ETX, we sit down with Jim Bob and Tina Ripple, the co-owners of Holloway Carpet in Marshall, Texas. They delve into the long-standing history of the business, its crucial role in the community, and the couple's journey from meeting in college to running a successful family-owned enterprise. The Ripples share personal anecdotes about their family, their love...

On this episode of HEY ETX, we welcome Fred and Vivian Gebhart, owners of Kilgore Mercantile and Music in downtown Kilgore, Texas. Discover how they transformed a historic 1930s building into a vibrant community hub that combines a country store, an ice cream parlor, and a music school. Learn about their journey from diverse backgrounds to becoming pillars of the Kilgore community, offering vintag...

HEY ETX S2-Bonus Episode 1- Summer 2025. In 2016, Carthage was blessed with an addition to its charm and unique mystique with the opening of the Sunflower Mercantile by Scott and Kelly Reeves. This store proudly offers a unique gift shop and a real working soda fountain featuring Blue Bell ice cream. They share their personal story and the story of the mercantile.

HEY ETX Season 2-Episode 12, Season 2 Finale Winter/Spring 2025   East Texas Business Leaders- Jeff Gage- Plano Marine of East Texas Plano Marine is one of the most successful boat dealerships in East Texas. It offers the best experience in boat sales, parts, and service. New owner Jeff Gage will join us as our special guest. He will share his story of moving from General Manager to Owner and what...

HEY ETX Season 2-Episode 11, Winter/Spring 2025   East Texas Leadership- Scott Surratt Scott Surratt has been Carthage's Head Football Coach and Athletic Director for 18 years. In those 18 years, Coach Surratt has won a state record 10 State Football Championships. He has an astounding lifetime coaching record of 234 wins and 31 losses. Listen as he shares his incredible journey. Tate Barber,...

HEY ETX Season 2-Episode 10, Winter/Spring 2025   East Texas Business Leaders- Keith and Sandy Dibble- Kona Ice Kona Ice trucks serving shaved ice featuring their Flavorwave self-serve flavors are seen all over East Texas. You might  also  see a Traveling Tom’s Coffee Truck serving specialty coffees, frappes, or other unique drinks. Special guests Keith and Sandy Dibble talk about their story,  bu...

HEY ETX Season 2-Episode 9, Winter/Spring 2025   East Texas Business Leaders- Skeeter Performance Boats Holmes Thurmond built the first Skeeter boat in 1948. That first boat would eventually become one of the best boat manufacturing companies in the United States. With its manufacturing plant located in Kilgore, Texas, Skeeter Performance Boats are built and delivered across the country. In this e...

HEY ETX Season 2-Episode 8, Winter/Spring 2025 East Texas Business Leaders Since 1990, Precision Pools has designed and built custom pools and outdoor living spaces all over East Texas. In this episode, we welcome Tommy Kirl, the President and Owner of Precision Pools. Brian Bunt, Tommy’s lifelong friend, and Partner at the Freeman Mills PC Law Firm in Longview, joins us as the guest Co-Host.

HEY ETX Season 2-Episode 7, Winter/Spring 2025   East Texas Eats The Jucy’s name has been synonymous with great food in East Texas since 1980! In this episode, Molly and Dustin Anthony, co-owners, explain the company's history and how the brand continues to grow. Danny Sullivan, Owner/Operator of Papacita’s Mexican Restaurant, joins us as the guest Co-Host.

East Texas Education In 1994, Christian Heritage Classical School opened its doors to serve the East Texas area with a choice in education.  John Rutherford, Principal of the Upper School, discusses Christian private education and how the school is making a difference in East Texas.  Also joining us as a special Co-Host is Andrew Hébert, Lead Pastor at Mobberly Baptist Church. HEY ETX S2-Episode 6...

East Texas Eats For over 42 years, Chuck King has been serving East Texans as a Franchisee for Chick-fil-A in Longview. He has been a leader in our area and is known for giving back to the community he loves and calls home. As a surprise, we asked Chuck’s children, Braden King and Katie Soape, to join us as Co-Hosts on this episode.  

East Texas Leadership East Texans care and help other people, and our special guest is a great example of a leader who does just that. On this episode, we sit down with Chad Patterson. He is the CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Pines and a   Certified Coach, Speaker, Trainer, and Author. Chad wrote the book, “Leadership H.E.A.R.T. Unleashed” which provides practical applications and tools...

East Texas Influencers Two East Texas sisters got together to create a live show that has a huge following on Facebook and YouTube. They host a simple cooking show while talking about life and sharing funny or meaningful stories. You can find them by searching “Pinky Ma’s Cakes, Cookies and Candy.” Sisters Mary Pinkston Luman and Linda Pinkston Dalton, along with Mary’s Daughter, Carla Luman, join...

East Texas Eats and Retail Since 1972, Barron’s has been an integral part of Longview’s retail scene. Due to its continued success, Barron’s expanded by opening Barron’s Café, offering East Texas a unique combination of shopping, quality dining, and excellent customer service. In this episode, we understand more about Barron’s journey and personal story from second-generation co-owners and operato...

East Texas Treats In this  Season 2 Premiere , we talk with Chad and Rachael Reeves, Owners of Shivers Natural Snow in Longview. Shivers has created some of the best handcrafted snow cones and popsicles for ten years using pure, simple ingredients.  Chad and Rachael will share their incredible journey on Shivers’ road to success. Special Co-Host Michael Moss, owner of Sweet Shop USA in Mount Pleas...

Being Thankful In this unique bonus episode, we welcome special guests Andrew Hébert, Lead Pastor at Mobberly Baptist Church, and Russ Montgomery, Counselor at Hope Road Counseling, as we delve into how and why we should continue an attitude of thankfulness.  We encourage you to share this episode with friends and family!

Christmas in East Texas  In this  FALL FINALE , we talk with Lacy Burson, the City of Marshall’s Main Street Manager. Lacy does so many things for the city, including the Wonderland of Lights at Christmas time. This is an incredible Christmas event for the whole family, and Lacy tells us all about it!  Special Co-Host Geoffrey Davis, Mobberly Marshall Campus Pastor and Co-Owner of Joe Pine Coffee...