What in East Dallas is Going On?!

In this episode with The Chamber Chicks , the hosts sit down with Katrina Martinez, an experienced educator and advocate for student-driven learning, to explore how Big Picture Learning (BPL) is transforming traditional education systems. Katrina shares how BPL partners with schools and communities to co-create sustainable, real-world learning models that empower students to take ownership of thei...

In this inspiring episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , Rich and Camille sit down with Addison Sloan, an extraordinary artist from East Dallas whose real name is Elaine Chico. Addison opens up about how art became her sanctuary, a way to navigate life’s challenges, including the profound loss of her husband. She shares how her adventurous life—living on a boat in the Bahamas, exploring Eu...

In this episode with The Chamber Chicks , the hosts sit down with Jackie, a Master Certified Mindset Coach with over 20 years of leadership experience, to discuss her mission to help healthcare professionals overcome stress, burnout, and trauma. Drawing on her personal journey and professional expertise, Jackie shares practical tools and strategies that empower individuals to thrive both personall...

We’re kicking off the new year with a bang on What In East Dallas Is Going On?! Our special guest, Kendall Scudder , is not your typical numbers guy—he’s a passionate public servant with deep East Texas roots and a mission to ensure fairness for every property owner in Dallas County. As an elected member of the Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD) Board of Directors, Kendall breaks down the of...

In this episode with The Chamber Chicks , the hosts sit down with Laura Booty, founder of LB Insurance Solutions, to unravel the complexities of health insurance. Laura, a former special education teacher and certified health insurance expert, shares how her personalized approach helps clients feel confident in making the right choices for their health and budgets. From Medicare and marketplace pl...

In this special re-airing, Rich and Camille chat with Jeff Patton Jr. of Patton’s Christmas Trees, the iconic family-owned Christmas tree lot in Lakewood Village. For 50 years, Patton’s has been a cornerstone of East Dallas’ holiday traditions, bringing fresh-cut trees, fragrant garlands, and Christmas cheer to the community. Jeff shares the incredible history of how his father started the busines...

In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , we sit down with John Tilton, the visionary founder of Lucky Dog Books, a local treasure that has been serving Dallas readers for an incredible five decades. John shares his insights on why bookstores are making a comeback, what keeps customers returning, and the role of a neighborhood bookstore in today's digital world. Listen in as we e...

Join Camille and Rich as they sit down with Mel Renfro, NFL Hall of Famer and Dallas Cowboys icon, in an intimate conversation about his life, career, and legacy. Mel opens up about his journey from football fields to the Hall of Fame, reflecting on his extraordinary athletic abilities, the challenges he faced as an African American athlete, and what it means to call East Dallas home. This episode...

In this heartwarming episode of Golden Connections , we welcome DJ from Seniors Helping Seniors to share the unique approach they bring to senior care in East Dallas. With a mission focused on mutual support and meaningful connections, Seniors Helping Seniors matches active seniors with those needing assistance, creating bonds that go beyond basic care. DJ dives into how they celebrate the Golden...

BOO!!!! In this special episode, we dive into all things haunted with Julie and Rebekah, the hosts of Haunted AF , a podcast dedicated to spooky, creepy, and ghostly stories. From local haunts to spine-chilling tales that will leave you wondering what’s lurking in the shadows, Julie and Rebekah share some of the most terrifying experiences they've encountered. Tune in for a fun and frightful...

In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , hosts Camille and Rich sit down with Karl Chiao, Executive Director of the Dallas Historical Society, to explore the rich history and unique artifacts that shape Dallas' past. With over 3 million pieces in their collection, Karl shares the fascinating stories behind the items, how they were acquired, and the significance of preserving Dal...

HOTWORX is a virtually instructed exercise program created for users to experience the many benefits of infrared heat absorption, while completing a 30-minute Isometric workout or 15-minute High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) session. As the infrared heat penetrates your body causing you to sweat, the isometric postures further accelerate detoxification by physically removing the toxins from y...

In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , hosts Camille and Rich sit down with Iris Midler, the inspiring founder of the Chefs for Farmers culinary festival. Iris shares the story behind the festival’s inception, from its humble beginnings as a community dinner on a local farm to a renowned sold-out event that now draws over 4,000 attendees. Discover how her passion for food and commu...

What if you could take a trip around the world? Not just any trip, but a trip where you followed your father's footsteps?  In My Father's Footsteps is a time-traveling documentary that takes you on a journey across three continents as Bella retraces her fathers 1982 solo trip around the world. Through Bella's eyes, you will gain a unique perspective on the changes and enduring aspec...

In this episode, we’re joined by Laura and Andrew to dive into one of Dallas’ premier architectural events—the AIA Dallas Tour of Homes . Held every Fall, this self-guided tour offers a rare opportunity to explore the finest in residential architecture. Featuring a curated selection of unique homes across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, this tour not only highlights the talent of local architects...

In this exciting episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , we dive deep into the heart of the State Fair of Texas ! Our first guest is Melanie Linnear , Senior Vice President of Concessions for the fair, who shares her incredible journey from secretary to senior leadership. We discuss all things fair food! Yes, she is the one that picks the food! And she is going to tell us her favorites and...

In this special episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , hosts Camille and Rich sit down with Lori and Gary Ashmore —not to talk about their successful law careers, but to share their personal stories of growing up in East Dallas. The Ashmores recount nostalgic tales from their childhood, offering a glimpse into the community they call home. They also share some lighthearted and funny memori...

Brain Balance is the leading drug-free program designed to help improve focus, behavior, social skills, anxiety, and academic performance. Their comprehensive programming incorporates learnings from cognitive, behavioral and nutrition fields—an integrated approach that is literally redefining what’s possible. Is something blocking you or your child’s social, behavioral or academic progress? Brain...

In this heartfelt episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , hosts Camille and Rich sit down with Jessica Hernandez, a passionate advocate for the Far East Dallas community. Jessica, a proud DACA Dreamer originally from Mexico, shares her journey from working in mental health and social work to becoming a key figure at Owenwood Farm & Neighbor Space. Learn how Owenwood, in partnership with...

HEMAL OJHA CPA, CIA, MBA, PARTNER Hemal brings over 25 years of experience in business, accounting, consulting, and tax planning. A proud UTD alum, she holds an MBA and a Masters in Accounting. Hemal's career includes working with a Fortune 100 company, a Big 4 Accounting firm, and starting several of her own businesses.  Outside of work, Hemal is an avid explorer who loves nature and the cos...

This week on "What In East Dallas Is Going On?!", we’re joined by Preston Willms, a Tree Risk Assessment Qualified, Board-Certified Master Arborist, and Municipal Specialist. Preston brings his extensive knowledge from the International Society of Arboriculture to discuss some critical issues affecting our urban forest, including the devastating impact of the Emerald ash borer on our ash...

In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! , we sit down with Matt Wood, a dedicated member of the Exchange Club of East Dallas, to explore the incredible work this civic club has been doing for the community since 1948. With a focus on serving public school children in need, the club implements a variety of programs such as Coats for Kids, Books for Kids, and vision screenings in partne...

Changing Lives... One Family At A Time    Givingmas proudly provides families with resources and opportunities they need to improve their lives in a sustainable way. They believe in giving a hand up, not a handout. They are on a mission to change lives one family at time, and it starts with helping those in need take the necessary steps towards self-sufficiency. Tune in to hear all they do for tho...

The markets are producer-only, with the best local produce, meats and cheese, bread and pastries, pickles, jams, specialty foods and more.  In addition, they are proud to include artisans with handmade furniture, toys, clothes, soaps, and more, all made by North Texans. The farmers markets feature all local vendors who come from 150 mile radius of Dallas and all grow or make what they sell at our...

In this episode of "What In East Dallas Is Going On?!," the Chamber Chicks welcome Wrayanne Williams, a mortgage loan officer at Utopia Mortgage. Wrayanne shares her expertise in providing tailored loan solutions for every financial situation, whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance. At Utopia Mortgage, Wrayanne offers a variety of loan options, including FHA,...