EAST TEXAS UNFILTERED w/ J. Chad Parker Featuring Special Guests Chelsea Cooper and Libby Simmons

In this episode, J. Chad Parker sits down with Junior League leaders Chelsea Cooper and Libby Simmons to unpack the real story behind one of Tyler’s oldest and most influential service organizations. Chelsea and Libby walk through the history of the Junior League, how it began as a group of 13 civic-minded women in 1950, and how it grew into a powerful 75-year old force for community service, philanthropy, and women’s leadership development. They explain how the League has evolved over generations—from stay-at-home moms in the 1950s to today’s membership, where more than 85 percent of women work full-time and still give significant time to service in Smith County.The conversation gives an inside look at the League’s mission, application process, volunteer placements, grant making, and long-standing community partnerships. Chelsea breaks down the data showing who joins today and why, how provisional classes form tight-knit groups of new members, and how the League supports everything from children’s programs to community nonprofits. Libby reflects on her decades of involvement, the mentorship between sustainers and active members, and the way the organization continues to produce trained leaders who go on to serve across East Texas. They also explore the behind-the-scenes effort behind Mistletoe & Magic, the League’s signature fundraiser now entering its 47th year. The conversation covers everything: vendor selection, sponsorships, the preview party, special events, auction items, logistics, and why this holiday market remains one of Tyler’s most anticipated traditions. Chelsea and Libby offer a candid look at the volunteer work, leadership, and passion required to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars each year—money that goes straight back into the community. It’s an honest, detailed look at an organization that has quietly shaped Tyler for generations, and the women who keep its mission alive today. Subscribe and turn on notifications for more conversations like this.