Let's Talk Local

  In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, we dive into the issues that matter most to you—so you can head to the polls feeling informed and confident. Tune in to our forum with several city council candidates, where we asked the questions that matter most to your daily life—topics like public safety, homelessness, and the rapid growth of the DFW area. We believe that informed voters are empowered vot...

Join Sarah Zubiate Bennett as she brings her passion for interior design to life in this stunning new episode. Sarah sits down with some seasoned pros at Texas Counter Fitters, home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural stone slabs around. Together, they explore the latest innovations in design — from textures and tones to tech-forward trends reshaping the way we live and decorate. Whether you...

Local elections are right around the corner, and Let’s Talk Local is your go-to source for getting to know the people aiming to shape the future of Dallas. In this episode, we sit down with Bill Roth, a candidate for Dallas City Council District 11. Known for his no-nonsense approach and clear focus, Bill shares his vision for making Dallas a more vibrant, effective, and community-centered city. H...

Meet John Sims, candidate for Dallas City Council District 3! He’s passionate about making sure every voice in our city is heard—no matter your background. In this episode, we chat with John about what inspired him to run, the issues that drive him, and how he plans to create real change if elected. Remember, your vote is your voice—so let’s make it count this election season!

Elizabeth Matus isn’t running for City Council in District 5 because she’s looking for something to do—her resume is already full! She’s stepping up because she believes Pleasant Grove deserves more, and she’s ready to help make that happen. A lifelong resident, Elizabeth’s connection to the community runs deep, and her passion for making it better is what’s driving her campaign. Her story is one...

Early voting kicks off soon—are you ready to make your voice heard in the local elections? Local government plays a big role in shaping our everyday lives, and your vote truly matters. In this episode, we’re helping you get to know one of the new voices hoping to represent our community. Meet Ernest Banda, a District 9 city council candidate who describes himself as a “common sense” thinker ready...

Are you ready for early voting or election day? Every vote plays a critical role in shaping the future of Dallas—and the time to get informed is now. In this episode of Behind the Ballot , we introduce you to Machelle Wells, candidate for Dallas City Council District 6. With a deep commitment to service and a passion for community, Machelle shares her vision for bringing authentic, people-first le...

At Let’s Talk Local , we’re working hard to connect you with the people who want to represent you—especially with the upcoming City Council election on May 3. We know how important it is to feel informed and confident when you vote, and that’s why we’re excited to introduce you to one of the candidates for District 7: Jose Rivas. Jose has already served our country in the military, and now he’s ho...

Hey Dallas! 🎙️ Let’s Talk Local is going weekly, and we’re turning up the volume on everything that makes our city shine—big stories, hidden gems, and all the local flavor. First up: we’re diving into the vintage vibes at Dolly Python and Vintage Martini—two spots so cool, don’t be surprised if you bump into Gigi Hadid or Leon Bridges. But it’s not just about looking good—fashion is big biz here....

Dallas City Council member Chad West is back on the campaign trail and joining Let’s Talk Local to tackle the biggest issues facing District 1. From housing density and parking reform to the Texas Ethics Commission’s investigation into his campaign spending—no topic is off-limits, no matter how difficult the conversation. After the interview, we hit the streets of Oak Cliff to visit some of Chad’s...

Len Critcher isn’t just reviving Dallas’ most iconic hangouts—he’s also diving into robotics, ranching, and a whole lot more. In this episode, Sarah catches up with Len at the freshly renovated Milo Butterfingers, a beloved SMU staple, to talk about his incredible career and the magic of bringing legendary spots back to life. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! She wraps up the night at Chelsea...

Dallas-Fort Worth is booming, and with that growth comes a real estate market poised to be one of the biggest in the country. But what really drives homebuyers’ decisions? It’s about so much more than fancy countertops and high-end appliances. In this episode, we dive deep into the market with two top experts—Candy Evans of CandysDirt.com and luxury home builder and real estate agent Harrison Pols...

Dallas is at a crossroads—so is it time for a fresh start at City Hall? Filmmaker and local watchdog Damien LeVeck, better known as Dallas En Fuego , thinks so. He’s been digging deep into the city’s biggest issues, and what he’s uncovered might surprise you. We break it all down in this eye-opening episode. Plus, looking to impress this Valentine’s Day? Sarah shares a must-try sangria mocktail th...

In this episode, Sarah tackles the unsettling reality of feeling too safe in your bubble—until something shatters that sense of security. From chilling incidents in Highland Park to a terrifying moment where a 911 call went unanswered, Sarah explores what happens when we let our guard down. It’s a wake-up call about the importance of staying vigilant and taking responsibility for protecting oursel...

2024 was a whirlwind of headlines, packed with stories that shaped our world and sparked conversations. As we step into 2025, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the biggest moments of the past year and explore what’s on the horizon. From the most talked-about events to the trends shaping tomorrow, this episode has it all. Join us for an insightful and optimistic look back—and forward. Here’s to a...

The results are in, and big changes are coming to Dallas with the adoption of Propositions S and U. While some are celebrating, others are raising concerns—and we’re here to unpack it all. In this episode, we sit down with two key voices: former Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert and Dallas HERO supporter Monty Bennett, for an insightful discussion on what these changes mean for our city. But we’re not stop...

Planning a gathering doesn’t have to be stressful—Let’s Talk Local is here to make it easy! In this special episode, Sarah Zubiate Bennett shares hosting tips, tricks, and hacks to help you throw a great event, no matter the size. Sarah brings together guests from different backgrounds to share their secrets for hosting success. Get ready for some laughs, surprises, and a moment that leaves one gu...

In the premiere episode of Let’s Talk Local , host Sarah Zubiate Bennett sits down with newly retired Assistant Police Chief Reuben Ramirez to reflect on his 30-year career with the Dallas Police Department. Together, they dive into the challenges facing the department, including one issue many might not expect. Later, the episode celebrates fresh beginnings with a spotlight on Boxed Bites in Pres...

Join Sarah Zubiate Bennett as she cruises through Dallas, sharing her favorite aspects of the city and the passion that fuels her drive for change. Then, we take a quick detour to Sarah’s home for some exciting updates on the podcast that we can’t wait to reveal!

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Mark Moses, author of The Municipal Financial Crisis , to dive deep into the alarming financial mismanagement in the City of Dallas. With a $38 million deficit, millions spent on underperforming services like DART, and critical shortages in funding for vital assets such as more police officers, the conversation reveals the biggest challenges facing the city to...

In this episode, we journey to Forney’s Opportunity Central, a unique campus catering to individuals ages 3 to 103. From a preschool on one side to a comprehensive career development center on the other, this groundbreaking facility is redefining the future of education. We also sit down with Forney ISD Superintendent, Dr. Justin Terry, who shares the vision behind Opportunity Central and discusse...

In this episode, Tennessee Titans kicker Nick Folk joins Sarah in the studio before heading to training camp to discuss the challenges of balancing life as a dad and husband while playing in the NFL. Nick shares why he won't let his kids play tackle football—a perspective every parent should hear if their child is interested in the sport. He also opens up about what keeps him up at night during hi...

In this episode, we meet female business powerhouses who refuse to take no for an answer. First, Pam Eudaric and Suzanne Palmlund, the visionaries behind Chocolate Secrets in Dallas, share their journey. Then, we visit The Gem, Dallas's first free-standing juice bar, to uncover its inspiring story. Tune in for tales of friendship, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit.  

In this episode, we introduce Payman Pahlavan, a modern renaissance man whose journey from film education has blossomed into a remarkable career in lighting design. You may have encountered his innovative work across town. Beyond lighting, Payman is celebrated for his unique fashion and bespoke men's footwear designs. His passion extends to restoring antique cars, blending their classic aesthetics...

It's undeniable that AI has become an integral part of our lives, presenting us with the choice to either embrace its potential or fear its implications. Steve Kinard, President of the AI Innovation Association and a recognized expert in the field, enlightens us on how this technology can unlock possibilities we never imagined—provided we use it wisely. Following this insightful discussion, we vis...