Hidden City

In this episode, we sit down with Collin Martin, the founder of Bingo Markets, and explore his unique approach to the vending machine industry which emphasizes local, curated snacks and a vibrant design ethos. Collin shares his journey from living in Oak Cliff to creating a business rooted in community, quality, and creativity. Discover the entrepreneurial story behind Bingo Markets, how Collin&#3...

Join us for an extraordinary conversation with David Marquis, founder of the Oak Cliff Nature Preserve and author of The River Always Wins. David shares the riveting story of how a 7 a.m. phone call and a red-tailed hawk inspired him to save 120 acres of pristine green space in Oak Cliff. Discover how he navigated community resistance, city politics, and a race against time to create a sanctuary f...

In this episode of the Hidden City, we dive into the rich tapestry of Oak Cliff's music and history with Diana Cox, Vice President of Kessler Presents. Diana shares fascinating stories behind legendary venues like the Kessler Theater and Longhorn Ballroom, the vision of preserving historic spaces for future generations, and the magic of intimate live music experiences. From tornado-scarred wal...

Merry Christmas from The Hidden City Podcast! In this special bonus episode, we journey into the heart of Oak Cliff's coffee scene with Shannon Neffendorf, the founder of Oak Cliff Coffee Roasters. Shannon shares his incredible story of how a childhood memory of drinking coffee with his grandfather and a love for Italian coffee culture inspired him to create a coffee business rooted in quality...

In Episode 14, we sit down with artist, designer, and visionary Gary Buckner, founder of Stash Design. Known for transforming reclaimed materials into functional art, Gary has left his mark on iconic Oak Cliff spaces like Wild Detectives, Davis Street Espresso, and Tyler Station. We discuss his unique approach to design, his passion for preserving history through sustainable craftsmanship, and his...

In this episode, we sit down with artist, designer, and creative visionary Temi Coker. From his early days in Lagos, Nigeria, to making an impact in Oak Cliff, Temi shares how his journey shaped his artistic style and his passion for merging photography and graphic design. We explore his collaborations with major brands like Nike and Adobe, his commitment to amplifying Black voices, and his vision...

In this episode, we speak with Bettina Bennett, an entrepreneur, accidental technologist, and 30-year Oak Cliff resident, shares her journey from Germany to Texas and her love for the unique spirit of Oak Cliff. Bettina discusses her career milestones, including founding a technology company and initiating the Women in Technology Awards, and her commitment to community-driven change. From painting...

In this episode, we sit down with JR Huerta, founder of Dallas Youth Sports and District 1 representative on the Dallas Parks and Recreation Board. JR shares the journey of turning a small volunteer-run baseball program into a thriving multi-sport organization serving thousands of kids. We also dive into his work organizing Oak Cliff’s annual Mardi Gras parade, his commitment to family-led leaders...

In episode 10, we dive into the life and work of Monte Anderson—developer, visionary, and lifelong advocate for Oak Cliff. Monte shares his journey from motocross racer to shaping iconic projects like Tyler Station and the Belmont Hotel. We explore his unwavering commitment to Southern Dallas, his principles of “gentlefication,” and how he’s fostering walkable, multi-generational communities. With...

In episode 9, we welcome chef and owner Skye McDaniel of La Bodega in Oak Cliff’s Bishop Arts. Skye shares the journey of building a food-centric community space, inspired by her Sicilian family roots, love for travel, and commitment to ethical food sourcing. From hosting beloved “Sunday Suppers” to creating a space where intentionality meets hospitality, Skye dives into the challenges and rewards...

In episode 8, we welcome photographer Richard Doherty, whose book Framing Oak Cliff offers a deeply personal visual diary of this vibrant Dallas neighborhood. Over 40 years, Richard has documented Oak Cliff’s ever-changing streets, capturing candid panoramas, quiet neighborhood scenes, and the small, often-overlooked details that define daily life. In this conversation, Richard shares his journey,...

In episode 7, we sit down with Jimmy Contreras, the visionary behind Taco Y Vino and LadyLove, to explore how he’s crafted Oak Cliff’s ultimate “third place”—a welcoming spot that’s as perfect for locals as it is for out-of-town guests. Jimmy shares insights into the spirit of Oak Cliff, the power of communal spaces, and how his team’s dedication has helped Taco Y Vino become a North Texas favorit...

Liz Lanier, founder of Joy Macarons, joins Doug and Grant to talk about turning her love for baking into a thriving Oak Cliff business. From pop-ups to multiple locations, Liz shares how community, design, and a focus on quality helped shape Joy Macarons into a neighborhood favorite, known for its macarons and house-made ice cream. Full shownotes available on ⁠Patreon ⁠ (Free to access) Subscribe...

In this episode of The Hidden City, Grant and Doug sit down with two-time James Beard Award winner and Texas Monthly’s Taco Editor, José Ralat. They dive into José’s journey to becoming the first-ever taco editor, the evolution of Texas’ taco scene, and the stories behind some of the state’s most iconic taco spots. With over 428 stops and more than 1,200 tacos sampled in just six months, José shar...

In this episode, we sit down with Javier García del Moral, founder of Wild Detectives and Sketches of Spain. Javier shares his journey from Spain to Oak Cliff, discussing the creation of his beloved bookstore-bar, his role in bringing the world-renowned Hay Festival to the neighborhood, and the cultural bridge he's built between his roots in Spain and his home in Dallas. We explore how his ven...

In this episode, April Allen, president and CEO of the Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation, discusses her journey from Harvard graduate to Oak Cliff resident and leader of a transformative project. We explore how the park's unique design reflects Oak Cliff’s natural beauty and the vision for reconnecting neighborhoods long divided by infrastructure. April shares insights on the challenges...

In this episode, Taylor Toynes, founder of For Oak Cliff, shares how he transformed a back-to-school event into a thriving nonprofit. We discuss his journey as a lifelong Oak Cliff native, his vision for community empowerment, and the importance of addressing systemic oppression through education and action. Taylor opens up about the challenges and victories that have shaped For Oak Cliff’s missio...

In this first episode, Doug and Grant Klembara introduce T he Hidden City, sharing their love for Oak Cliff and why they’re excited to tell its stories. They explore the unique history, culture, and people of Oak Cliff, from local businesses to its rich past as an independent city. The brothers explain their personal connection to the neighborhood, what makes it special, and what listeners can exp...

Step into the heart of Oak Cliff, TX a vibrant neighborhood brimming with history and creativity. Known for its independent spirit and colorful past, Oak Cliff has long been home to dreamers, rebels, and innovators. Each week, we dive into the untold stories of the entrepreneurs, visionaries, and community leaders who shape this place.