Born In The Bend

It's about to get nostalgic here! We rewind to the good ol' days of old Fort Bend with a special episode guest-hosted by Noell Myska, where she sits down with her dad Jimmy Myska and longtime family friend Steve Holmes. Jimmy and Steve share vivid stories of growing up in Beasley and Fulshear: from sharecropping roots, tractor work, and skinny-dipping at rice wells to gas-station hangouts and tight-knit church and school communities. They trace how Fort Bend has transformed from wide-open rice fields and a handful of high schools into a rapidly growing, bustling hub with new neighborhoods, schools, and businesses at every turn. As time passed, they built careers in property tax consulting and aviation, raised families, and learned what it means to stay rooted in a place even as it changes around you. This episode is a love letter to "old Fort Bend," gratitude for the people who shaped it, and a reminder of how deeply local stories anchor a fast-growing county. Key Insights & Timestamps: [01:10]: Introducing Guest Host Noell Myska and "Two Hometown Boys" Jimmy & Steve [05:00]: Sharecropping, Cotton Chopping, and Jimmy's Early Years in Beasley [10:30]: Fulshear in the 60s: Valley Lodge, $0.55 Gas, and Weekend "Hub of Activity" [20:00]: High School Friendships, Church Life, and Wild Clover-Field Adventures [27:00]: Building Careers From Property Tax Consulting to Starting a Flying Business [35:00]: How Steve Became a Pilot and the Story of Teaching Justin to Fly Key Takeaways: Growing up in rural Fort Bend built a deep work ethic and sense of responsibility. Jimmy and Steve's stories of sharecropping, tractor work, and taking whatever jobs they could find show how early labor shaped their character, independence, and appreciation for opportunity. That foundation carried into their adult lives, from starting a tax consulting firm to building an aviation business. Tight-knit communities can shape a lifetime of relationships and belonging. From Fulshear's Exxon station "hub," MYF youth groups, and Valley Lodge hangouts to working at local arenas and feed stores, their teen years were spent in overlapping circles of friends, family, and neighbors. Those bonds didn't fade with time, they became the support system that carried through marriages, careers, and multiple generations. Fort Bend's explosive growth is both a point of pride and a source of tension. Jimmy and Steve contrast a past of rice fields, four or five regional high schools, and wide-open roads with today's reality of constant construction, new schools, and what Jimmy bluntly calls "overcrowded." But even as the landscape changes, they see Fort Bend as the ideal place to grow up, raise families, and build businesses. Guest Spotlight: Noell Myska Noell Myska is a Fort Bend County local whose roots run deep in the community. She's a brand ambassador at Terry's Landscape and is actively involved in the local nonprofit and advocacy space, including her work with Reigning Strength, where she supports mission-driven efforts serving families in the region. Previously featured on Born in the Bend for her work, she brings a blend of professional insight, family history, and local pride to this episode, asking the kinds of questions only someone raised in Fort Bend's small-town culture could ask. Jimmy Myska Born and raised in Beasley, Jimmy Myska grew up in a sharecropping family, learning hard work early through long days in the fields, driving tractors, and helping his extended farming family. Professionally, he built a successful career in property tax, starting as an appraiser, then becoming a property tax consultant and eventually co-founding his own firm, Mishka & Van De Vort, before "retiring in place" and handing the reins to the next generation. Steve Holmes A Fulshear native, Steve Holmes turned a teenage fascination with flying into a lifelong career in aviation, earning his ratings at American Flyers in Ardmore, Oklahoma, and going on to fly corporate jets, manage flight operations, and eventually own an aviation company. He also worked in car dealerships and crane service management before returning to the cockpit to mentor younger pilots. Resources Mentioned: Gulf Coast Aviation Dozier's BBQ Lamar Consolidated High School Fort Bend County Fair Fort Bend Museum For More Information: Born in the Bend is sponsored by Develop Richmond, and is produced and mixed by the team at Speakerbox Media.  Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, and visit our Born in the Bend website (drop Emily a recommendation through our Contact form) and Instagram (our DMs are open!). Keep up with all things Develop Richmond on their Website, Facebook, and Instagram.     

Richmond has a lot to look forward to with Lacie Chambers stepping in as the new Executive Director of Develop Richmond! In this episode, Lacie shares her clear plan for transforming Richmond into a more vibrant, economically active destination through curated retail, new food concepts, and infrastructure investments like upcoming sidewalk and streetscape improvements. She walks us through how intentional planning, business attraction, and community input are shaping a more connected "live, work, play" environment. Most importantly, Lacie puts a spotlight on supporting local businesses as a foundation for attracting new industries and talent to Richmond. The momentum is real, and Richmond is only getting started.

In this powerful episode, Jenny Fridge of The Sanctuary Foster Care Services shares her family's personal journey into foster care and adoption, and the mission that now fuels her work. She pulls back the curtain on the realities of the foster system: the trauma children carry, the high burnout rate among foster families, and why support is the missing piece. We sit down with Jenny as she explains how the organization's four pillars, which are in-home therapy, 24/7 crisis response, respite care, and community support, are redefining what foster and post-adoption care can look like.

The holidays are right around the corner, which means it's time for a Richmond Roundup of all things festive and fun happening in Fort Bend. From November harvest festivities to December Christmas gatherings, the next few weeks will be a busy time in the Fort Bend region. Bundle up, gather the kiddos and get ready to spread some holiday cheer at signature events like the Community Christmas Walk, Annual Gingerbread House Competition, and Miracle on Morton Street.

If your child is attending school in the Lamar district, you may have heard about the 2025 Bond. Do you have questions? So do we! We called in a special guest host, Lamar School Board Member Zach Lambert (of Mercy Goods) to interview Lamar Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens. Zach and Roosevelt talk about all things Lamar, including their designation as a hypergrowth district, their dedication to providing elite education, and their plans to serve the 2000+ kids moving into the district every year. 

The Fort Bend community is full of generous people who love to give back, and this is double the case for our two guests, Lindsay Rolph and Kelsea Weatherford from the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL). The Fort Bend Junior Service League is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the Fort Bend County community. As current and past presidents of the Fort Bend Junior Service League, Lindsay and Kelsea teach us the ins and outs of volunteering, as well as show us how we can get involved with FBJSL and attend their upcoming Sugar Plum Market. 

Everyone loves an iconic duo, and Jillian Reed has created one of her own at LIT bookbar at Jax & 7th. Uniting cozy craft cocktails and bookshelves full of local authors, LIT bookbar brings everyone in the community together to drink, shop, and most importantly: connect! As the owner of LIT, Jillian walks us through the journey Richmond's new book bar has taken from market stands and pop ups to a brick and mortar hosting events, clubs, parties, and so much more. Looking for your next read? This is the episode for you!

Terri Vela, City Manager at City of Richmond Texas, joins the pod to discuss the coordination behind the scenes of Richmond's charming city. From infrastructure to events, development to volunteering, no single day looks the same for Terri as she and her team work to build a better and more beautiful Richmond. Talking points include coordinating events like the arts festival and farmers market, strategic partnerships between government and nonprofit groups, and Terri's future hopes for growth and construction in downtown Richmond.  

Sarah Beth Baca, local artist, author, community liaison and activist, talks about the seasons of her life and the impact art has had throughout. As a wife, mother, and full-time artist, Sarah has learned how to balance art with life and keep an open mind about the journey to making art a profitable and impactful career. From face-painting to expressionism, mixed media to oil and acrylic, Sarah has so many experiences, insights, and advice to share about finding passion in chaos, meeting the needs of your community, and staying curious about the creative opportunities ahead of you.  

Sandy McGee, Restaurateur and Owner of Sandy McGee's Restaurant & Bar, serves up tasty tales and delicious insights on what it's like to feed Fort Bend. From in-home catering to a little house in Rosenberg to a remodeled restaurant mecca in Historic Downtown Richmond, Sandy has seen it all and still has more cooking up for us to look forward to. Talking points include the highs and lows of the restaurant business, her family and their involvement in Sandy McGee's, and the infamous broccoli cheese soup that inspires daily lunch lines of hungry patrons.  

October Smith, Ranch Manager at Long Acres Ranch, comes inside from the great outdoors to talk about a beautiful private green space in the middle of the bustling suburbs and shops of Richmond. Located in the heart of Richmond, Long Acres Ranch provides a unique, natural environment for educational and recreational activities and promotes the appreciation of nature and open space. Talking points include oodles of ologies for kiddos and adults, outdoor activities for nature lovers of all ages, and how to get involved in upcoming ranch opportunities

Noell Myska and Heather Hernandez join the pod to talk about serving the Fort Bend community through equine-assisted learning and therapeutic horsemanship at Reining Strength. Founded in 2014, Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship provides equine-assisted services for people ages 2 and up, children and adults, with physical, cognitive, social, or emotional needs. Talking points include different groups that benefit from therapeutic horsemanship, how to get involved as a volunteer, and what the upcoming Derby Day event (May 4) has in store.

Greg Babst, Emergency Management Coordinator at Fort Bend Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management, brings emergency prep to the pod and tackles the tips for hurricane safety. Hurricane season starts this May in Fort Bend, but the impacts of these natural disasters can be felt both before and after this time of heightened awareness. Greg talks through setting up a 72-hour kit, tapping into EOC's resources, and getting prepared at the upcoming Fort Bend Ready event on April 27th.  

Season 5 has officially arrived, and Em & Aim are so excited to catch up with listeners and look ahead for what's to come on Born in the Bend! Aimee discusses new additions to the Jax & 7th and Blockhouse Coffee family, including LIT Bookbar and Mugz Coffee. Emily gives listeners a sneak peek of the upcoming Fort Bend Museum gala, "A Night in the Garden" taking place on April 6th. Additional talking points include summer travels, listener recommendations, and home remodels.  

Rebekah Dahl and Brad Scarborough, Founders of The Music Box Theater, bring their musical and comedic talents to the pod and talk about their unique variety show theater. This husband and wife duo work alongside the awesome Houston-based company at Music Box to delight audiences of all ages. Highlights of this episode include getting an in-depth look at upcoming Music Box Theater shows (including A Beatles Holiday Cabaret 2023) and hearing an exclusive musical performance from Rebekah and Brad.    

Rainey Webster, Executive Director of the Rosenberg Railroad Museum (RRM), forgoes the planes and automobiles this week to talk to us about trains and the railroads that have built the Texas we know today. The Rosenberg Railroad Museum educates and engages members of the Fort Bend community of all ages about the importance and impact of railroads and train technology. Stops along our journey include field trips for local schools, the current photography exhibit, and how you can visit and volunteer. 

Adam and Jamie Busch from Family Style Design Co spend the season in style with us and talk about the upcoming happenings at their beautiful home decor shop. Inspired by family and influenced by their love of gift-giving, Adam and Jamie bring beautiful things to the Fort Bend community through decor, consultations, design services, and community events. Design elements of this episode include gift-giving as a family love language, community table dinners, and Christmas concerts. 

Dexter L. McCoy, Fort Bend Commissioner of Precinct 4, brings his passion for local politics to the pod this week. Inspired by his past experience as student body president in college, Dexter has forged his career in local government with a focus on helping individuals improve their close-knit community. Talking points include what a County Commissioner really does, exciting political-driven projects in Fort Bend, and how each of us can make our own community impact in our everyday lives.  

Stacy Bourgeois, Founder of Sole Loved, joins the pod from Sugar Land, Texas this week to tell her journey from humble garage setups to full-fledged fundraising for charity. Inspired by her love of children and her passion for helping individuals living in poverty, Sole Loved delivers new and gently used tennis shoes to kids in need. Talking points include nurturing hope in underserved communities, spreading self-esteem to kids across Texas, and expanding her mission beyond her community. 

Charlie Beyl, Freelance Author, Illustrator and Educator in University of Houston's Digital Media program, explores the dynamic world of creativity, freelancing, and innovation on this week's episode. Through his work, Charlie shows students and fellow professionals alike how to unlock their unique creative potential and drive innovation in their careers. Talking points include Charlie's memories growing up in the Pacific Northwest, his early days as an artist pre-internet, persistence in pursuit of becoming a published author, and creative freelancing as a superpower.   

Jerry Jones Jr., Economic Development Director for Develop Richmond, sits and sips with Em and Aim this week as they talk about big things on the horizon in the small city of Richmond. With exciting developments and new projects springing up all the time, Jerry channels his expertise into cultivating Richmond's business community and creating people-centric places downtown. Talking points include new businesses, new buildings, and a new idea from Emily on why Richmond should be the Lantana Capital of Texas.    

A new season of Born in the Bend kicks off this week with a summer wrap-up and a calendar of exciting upcoming events. Emily recaps a summer of European travel and talks about her work with the Fort Bend Museum. Aimee discusses new happenings at Blockhouse Coffee and dives into some upcoming Richmond get-togethers you won't want to miss. Additional talking points include: updates from past guests, holiday fun in Fort Bend, and the launch of the new and improved Born in the Bend website.  

Fort Bend native, Em, met Louisiana transplant Aim, in the spring of 2017 and quickly bonded over business, community and motherhood. They came together to create the Born in the Bend podcast out of a desire to build community, foster a sense of place, and instill pride in calling Fort Bend County home. Em & Aim invite you to grab your favorite beverage, be it a cocktail or coffee, and give Born in the Bend a listen. They promise you'll laugh, learn, and come away from each episode valuing your local community like never before. Cheer's y'all!

Changes are coming to a property on Harlem Road in Richmond, TX. Founding Partners of Meristem Communities, a Houston-based real estate development firm that emphasizes creating places for people, Scott Snodgrass and Clayton Garrett sit down with Em and Aim this week to talk about Indigo, their community project that combines housing and business development in Fort Bend county. Coming to a neighborhood near you in 2024, Scott and Clayton give listeners a heads up on what to expect and why to choose Indigo! --- Get in touch with Scott Snodgrass on LinkedIn Get in touch with Clayton Garrett on LinkedIn  Learn more about Meristem Communities Check out Indigo and Indigo Commons  Subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and visit us at Born in the Bend and Instagram. This episode is brought to you by Indigo, and is produced and mixed by the team at Speakerbox Media.

This week we have a special episode sponsored by the Fort Bend History Association. Join us as we sip and chat about delicious upcoming events. Mark your calendars for good brews, fresh food, music, and community! Experience the holiday season through the lens of quaint downtown Richmond.   - - - - For up-to-the-minute updates on all these events and more, follow @jaxand7th, @theguildtx, and @fortbendmuseum on instagram. To purchase tickets to Bites & Brews on November 10 at the Fort Bend Museum, click here. To find the route map for the Community Christmas Walk happening December 2 in Downtown Richmond, click here. For all other events mentioned in this episode, visit the Fort Bend Museum's website events page, here.  - - - - Thank you to our beverage sponsor, Imperial Wines, now open in Sugar Land, TX. 

We catch up with Jerry Jones Jr., Economic Development Director for the city of Richmond, and find out what's new with his department since our last chat in Spring 2021. Initially referred to as the Development Corporation of Richmond, Jerry's department has been going through a rebrand to refer to itself now as Develop Richmond. Along with their name change comes a renewed focus on small businesses and startups, and an exciting revamp of their upcoming Economic Development Week (May 9th - 13th).

We're joined by Joey Lenderman, owner of Enchanted Gardens, to talk about the plants, animals, gifts, and expert advice that can be found throughout the 13 acres of his incredible nursery. With over 2 decades of experience and a strong following in the Fort Bend community, Joey is proud to offer a wide variety of Texas-grown plants to local gardeners of all skill levels and still finds time in his busy schedule to give back to local nonprofits with causes near and dear to his heart.  In this episode, Joey, Aimee, and Emily discuss: Getting started as a family business in Joey's childhood Defining the amazing Enchanted Gardens Showcasing the variety of offerings within the nursery and gift shop Giving some expert advice on everything from soil to pest control Finding opportunities to give back to the community 

We're joined by Shannan Stavinoha, the Executive Director of Parks Youth Ranch, to discuss her extensive volunteer and development experience in the Fort Bend community. After beginning her career in finance, Shannan soon realized her calling really was to serve, and her areas of focus over the years have been on helping children and developmentally disabled adults receive the essential services and support they need to survive and thrive.  In this episode, Shannan, Aimee, and Emily discuss: Transitioning from the financial services industry to development and volunteer work Hearing the call to return to Fort Bend and help her community time and time again Advocating for children and disabled adults through her personal and professional life Embracing her role in Parks Youth Ranch  Understanding and identifying needs in our community

We're joined by Steve Onstad, owner of Swinging Door, to talk about the almost 50 years his BBQ restaurant has been in business in Fort Bend. As a prominent member of our community, Steve has made a name for himself not only for the incredible food he makes, but for the amazing generosity he has provided for his community. In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and Steve cover:  When Steve started cooking  Where the idea for the Swinging Door came from Who made notable appearances in the restaurant and dance hall  Why Steve feels drawn to his employees, patrons, and community How Steve lends a hand in Fort Bend every month

This week, we're joined by Roger Adamson, CEO of the George Foundation, to discuss the philanthropic efforts and impact the George Foundation has on Fort Bend County, including numerous grants, scholarships, initiatives, and educational programs designed to provide the very best in aid and assistance.  In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and Roger cover:  History of the George Foundation and its link to the Old Three Hundred How funds are arranged and divided up amongst nonprofit recipients  Portfolios or "buckets" of giving within the community Educational opportunities for students of all ages Projects assisted by the George Foundation and how they came to be

This week, we're joined by John Kennedy, Field Development Officer at TSTC and Deacon at St. Theresa Catholic Church, to talk about what the Texas State Technical College does, who it serves, and how different programs and opportunities continue to be created as they expand further into Fort Bend county.  In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and John cover: John's decision to become a Deacon after years in the Catholic faith  Transitioning out of a hospitality role into his role with TSTC Scholarship fundraising and the Helping Hands fund Programs and opportunities offered to students at TSTC Fulfilling community needs and placing students in solid careers

This week, we're joined by Jess Stuart, Community Development Executive at YMCA and descendant of the "Old Three Hundred", to discuss his extensive family history in texas, passion for historical preservation, and the goals the YMCA has for our community moving forward.   In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and Jess cover: Almost 200 years of family history in Texas History of the Old Three Hundred How Jess developed his own interest in family history and Texas history  Work Jess has done with numerous groups, nonprofits, and organizations YMCA's journey in Fort Bend and what to look forward to at the TW Davis location

In anticipation of Season 3 launching February 15, we're replaying some listener favorites from our first two seasons. Season 2's episode with the ladies of Vintage Hope first aired June 2021, and since then, their business has flourished. After seamlessly transitioning into The Guild's space, Emily, Katie & Elise decided 611 Jackson Street needed to be the permanent home for their business. Starting this February, Vintage Hope will officially take over the space. We're re-airing this fun, and heart-warming episode to acquaint (or re-acquaint) you with the newest gals on the Jax & 7th block!

In anticipation of Season 3 launching on February 15, we're replaying some listener favorites from our first two seasons. Since airing the Fort Bend Museum episode from season 1 in June of 2020, so much has changed! The brand-new museum building has opened, Emily has joined the board of the Fort Bend History Association, and after a two-year pause, plans for the History Association's annual gala, the Lone Star Stomp on Saturday, April 9, are underway. Enjoyed this episode? Support the Fort Bend History Association's efforts by purchasing a ticket to the Lone Star Stomp at www.fbhistory.org.

Aimee and Emily introduce you to the themes, motivations, and fresh faces behind the newest season of Born in The Bend.    

Emily and Aimee meet with Ray and Sarah Smith, founders of Speakerbox Media and producers of Born in the Bend, to discuss starting their own podcasting business, finding a niche in Houston, and understanding the importance of an audio strategy. In this episode, Aimee, Emily, Ray, and Sarah cover: How Ray and Sarah met and started their lives together What drew them towards entrepreneurship and podcasting Where they found their niche and developed their services How they formed a partnership with Expansive Where they see themselves going and their goals as a business

Aimee and Emily meet Jen Plihal and Peg Turrentine, founders of Three Sisters Farm, and talk about all things farming, harvesting, and selling to the community. In this episode, Aimee, Emily, Jen, and Peg cover: Growing up with gardening and farming in their childhoods Developing a business partnership through mutual passion Living off the land and making it work on a budget Selling crops and teaching others how to garden and grow Dreaming of more commercial opportunities in the future

Aimee and Emily meet with Nilou Gibson, owner of Sweetwater Pies, on part two of a two-part bakery-themed series to discuss running her pie business out of Sugarland, Texas. In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and Nilou cover: Growing up in California and making her way to Texas Shifting career paths from nurse to full-time pie lady Finding inspiration in fellow bakers and pie-makers Keeping up with orders during the pandemic Upcoming adventures in classic cake flavors

Aimee and Emily meet with Amna Khalique, owner of Sugarplum Bakery, on part one of a two-part bakery-themed series to discuss running her small bakery business out of Sugarland, Texas. In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and Amna cover: Baking during quarantine Relocating from Pakistan to America Finding the inspiration to bake professionally Keeping busy with popular recipe staples Dreaming big with the hopes of opening her own storefront

Aimee and Emily meet with Katie Higgins and Elise Arango, the founders and owners of Vintage Hope, and talk about becoming friends through their children, going into business together, and supporting mental health struggles. In this episode, Aimee, Emily, Katie, and Elise cover: Becoming friends and forming a bond Starting with a t-shirt business and expanding into a boutique Understanding the importance of authenticity and honesty Supporting and caring for their community Expanding and collaborating with other businesses

Aimee and Emily are joined by the new Economic Development Director for Richmond, Jerry Jones. Together, they discuss Richmond's tourist potential, historical draw, cultural importance, and economic future. In this episode, Aimee, Emily, and Jerry cover: Feeling called to be a part of the Richmond community Defining the role of Economic Development Connecting government, business owners, and community Explaining exciting projects (retail coach, cultural district, innovation hub, tourism) Meeting goals and growing together

Aimee and Emily kick off season 2 with something they've never done before--interview each other! Together, they cover what brought each of them to create the Guild and Blockhouse Coffee, how 2020 changed everything, and what they're most looking forward to in the future. In this episode, Aimee and Emily cover: Creating big dreams in small spaces Building places where they want to go Overcoming grief through community and family Coping with taking steps forward and steps backward Making their dream into a reality

As owner and founder of Shady Oak Christian School, Joyce Trigger shares a personal connection with Emily and Aimee through working with their families and teaching their children. Shady Oak focuses on a holistic approach to education, inspiring parents to learn alongside their children, and encouraging kids to uncover who they really are. With her insightful knowledge and caring nature, Joyce takes this opportunity to share the importance of forming connections and fostering community with Aimee, Emily, and their listeners.

Ana Alicia, the site manager for the Fort Bend Museum. Ana has worked at the museum for the past four years, showing her passion and love for Texas history every single day. With COVID-19 causing a shift in the way the museum operates, Ana takes the opportunity in this episode to explain where the museum plans to go from here and how they plan to still remain true to their vow to be a community hub in Fort Bend.

Ken Tisdel, founder of LCG Global, to discuss his current project remodeling the Historic Exchange Hotel in downtown Richmond. Originally from Arizona, Ken discovered the charm of Richmond after forming his cybersecurity and litigation company and formed an immediate attachment to the Exchange Hotel. Through seeing its potential as both an office space and as a landmark, Ken has been dedicating his time to restoring the hotel to its former glory as well as adding his own unique mark to downtown Richmond.

Emily Scherer and Aimee Frederick meet up with Zach Lambert, the man responsible for kickstarting Mercy Goods in Richmond, to talk about the origins of their friendships with one another, the ways in which they've felt called to help their community, and what it really means to be involved in Mercy Goods. Mercy Goods is a non-profit organization run by Attack Poverty that focuses on teaching important work and life skills to low income, underprivileged members of the Richmond community.

Born in the Bend is a podcast by Emily Scherer and Aimee Frederick, two entrepreneurs with a passion for their hometown of Richmond, Texas. With a rich historical background and a community full of creative individuals, Richmond finds its charm and appeal for tourists and Fort Bend county locals alike. Through telling unique stories and elevating the voices of a wide array of guests, Aimee and Emily aim to share a little piece of the town they love in every episode and show the world what Richmond is all about.