Raising Midland

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Troy Gray, Site Manager of the Bush Family Home Historic Site in Midland, Texas. Troy shares how this modest home once housed two future U.S. Presidents — George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush — and how the site now serves as a living window into Midland’s rich history. Troy discusses his background in museum curation, the importa...

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy welcomes Tanya Eckert from Casa De Amigos, a cornerstone nonprofit that has served West Texas since 1964. What began in an abandoned grocery store has become a thriving hub for community empowerment across all ages. Casa De Amigos delivers vital services ranging from GED and ESL classes to youth tutoring, senior programs, health and wellness i...

In this heartfelt episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Diane Cole Wigum, Executive Director of Midland Fair Havens, to spotlight the life-changing work being done for single mothers and their children in the Permian Basin. Midland Fair Havens is more than just a shelter—it’s a comprehensive residential program designed to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through...

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Rachel Ritter, Executive Director of Midland Festival Ballet, to explore the impact of ballet on children’s development, confidence, and mental health. From the tradition of The Nutcracker to the unexpected ways ballet teaches leadership, teamwork, and resilience, this episode is a must-watch for parents looking to understand th...

Join Jessica McCoy on this episode of Raising Midland as she sits down with Ray Fieldhouse, Assistant General Manager of the Midland RockHounds, to explore the heartbeat of minor league baseball in West Texas. Go behind the scenes of RockHounds operations—from gameday logistics and community outreach to the team’s creative promotions and how they stack up against viral sensations like the Savannah...

n this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy welcomes Adam Sahli, artistic director at Midland Community Theatre—one of the largest community theaters in the country. From his unexpected path through psychology to leading powerful stage productions like Anastasia, Adam shares how theater fosters emotional growth, builds community, and transforms lives. Explore the behind-the-scenes magic...

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Kate Williamson, Development Director at YWLA, to explore how the academy is empowering girls through leadership development, STEM-focused education, and college readiness. Learn how YWLA partners with MISD and local nonprofits to create a holistic, student-centered environment that supports academic success and personal growth...

Join Jessica McCoy on "Raising Midland" as she sits down with Libby Stephens, Executive Director of the West Texas Food Bank, to discuss the vital role of food banks in combating food scarcity in Texas. From government impacts on food availability to innovative programs like Food to Kids and mobile pantries, this conversation reveals the unseen challenges and successes in feeding West Te...

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Keri St. John, Executive Director of Bynum School — the only institution in West Texas offering uninterrupted, year-round education for students with special needs. Discover how Bynum School is transforming lives through personalized instruction, on-site therapies, and vocational programs designed to help students from preschool...

Season 2 kicks off with a powerful conversation between host Jessica McCoy and MISD Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Howard about the future of education in Midland. In this premiere episode of Raising Midland Season 2, we dive into what Bond 2023 means for local schools — from building new high schools and reconfiguring grade levels to launching STEM+M junior high programs and expanding extracurricul...

Discover what every parent needs to know about exciting entertainment options for families in the Permian Basin. Jessica McCoy interviews Gina Marie Soto, a local entrepreneur revolutionizing family fun with franchises like Little Gym and Urban Air. Learn about innovative programs for children of all ages, from toddler development classes to thrilling adventure parks. Explore how these businesses...

Discover how Midland Children's Rehab Center (MCRC) is revolutionizing pediatric therapy in West Texas. Executive Director Kristal Kidd shares insights on their comprehensive approach, offering PT, OT, speech therapy, and innovative programs like hippotherapy and aquatic therapy. Learn about MCRC's unique "under one roof" model, allowing seamless collaboration between therapists to address childre...

From Oil to Oasis: Zoo Midland's Community Vision brings you an exclusive look at the first brand-new zoo built in 25 years. Jeff Beard, Zoo Midland President, shares the exciting journey of creating a world-class attraction in West Texas. Discover how this visionary project is transforming Midland, blending innovative animal habitats with family-friendly experiences. Learn about the unique challe...

Meet Jordan and Brandon Ireton as they share their journey of raising a child on the autism spectrum and how it inspired them to open We Rock the Spectrum Midland. This inclusive gym provides a judgment-free zone where children can play freely, regardless of their abilities. Learn about the specialized equipment and thoughtful design that accommodate various sensory needs, promoting inclusive play...

Discover how First Tee West Texas is transforming youth through the game of golf. Executive Director Liz McCormick shares inspiring insights on how this unique program is building character, leadership skills, and creating safe spaces for kids to thrive. Learn about the program's incredible growth, serving 400 individual children in just one year, and the pivotal role of mentorship in empowering t...

The Truth About Mental Health Care in West Texas | Exploring the challenges and solutions Discover the realities of mental health care in West Texas as Russell Myers, president of the Permian Basin Behavioral Health Center, shares insights on the region's unique challenges and innovative solutions. Learn about the stigma surrounding mental health, the lack of accessible care, and the groundbreakin...

Get an exclusive look inside Midland Health's ambitious $157M expansion plan with President and CEO Stephen Bowerman. Learn how this transformative project will revolutionize healthcare delivery in the Permian Basin, featuring a new 100,000-square-foot medical office building, expanded operating rooms, and enhanced women's services. Discover the hospital's innovative approaches to patient care, in...

Discover how Midland is revolutionizing youth sports with a groundbreaking 115,000-square-foot facility that's completely free for the community. Executive Director Trovocie Jackson shares the vision behind the Midland Athletic Syndicate's game-changing complex, featuring six full basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, and the Permian Basin's largest indoor turf space. Learn how major energy com...

How This Mom Turned West Texas into a Children's Book with Callie Fuqua on this episode of Raising Midland with Jessica McCoy. Discover how Callie Fuqua, a native West Texan and proud Aggie, transformed her love for children's books into a heartwarming tribute to her home region. In this inspiring conversation with Jessica McCoy, Callie shares the story behind "Goodnight West Texas," a charming ch...

Discover Midland's hidden family gem, the Museum of the Southwest! Nestled in the heart of Midland, TX, this multidisciplinary institution offers a unique blend of art, science, and history, creating a vibrant hub for both locals and newcomers. Dive into a world-class art museum, a dynamic children's museum, and a captivating planetarium—all housed within a beautiful historic mansion. The Museum p...

Discover the truth about raising kids in Midland TX with Jessica McCoy and Andra Jones from the Boys and Girls Club of the Permian Basin. In this first episode of the Raising Midland podcast, we dive into the unique challenges and opportunities of parenting in this West Texas community. Andra. Jones, a former student athlete and educational leader, shares invaluable insights on building character...