Hitting the Streets Podcast

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast!Today on the show, I’m sitting down with the wonderful Michelle Castle for a real and reflective conversation about success, burnout, priorities, and what it truly means to build a life that feels aligned, not just impressive on paper.Michelle wears many hats, mortgage strategist, business coach, author, wife, mom, and leader, but in this episode, she opens up about the moment she realized that constantly carrying it all was not the same as living well. We talk about the pressure of being “the dependable one,” redefining success, learning to say no, and asking the hard question many people avoid:Is your business supporting your life… or quietly consuming it?Michelle also shares the heart behind her book, Rethink Everything You Know About Business Planning, and why she believes so many people are building businesses around expectations instead of intention.This episode is honest, relatable, and filled with reminders that it’s okay to pause, reevaluate, and rebuild something that actually fits the life you want to live.Be sure to connect with Michelle Castle and learn more about her upcoming June 24th workshop focused on intentional business planning and alignment.Visit her website: www.michellecastle.info

Today on the show, Britney Barker, Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center, is back on the mic to talk about the impactful programs available right here in our community.We dive into how CAC supports children and families, the resources they provide, and why their work is so important. These are the conversations that matter, the ones that bring awareness and real change.You’ll also hear from Courtney Murphy as she shares insight on body safety education and how these conversations help protect and empower children.If you’ve ever wondered how you can get involved, support their mission, or simply learn more, this episode is for you.🎧 Tune in now and be part of the conversation.Visit their website: cacgc.org

Today on the show, Courtney Murphy, Development & Outreach Coordinator for the Grayson County Children's Advocacy Center, is on the mic to talk about the power of outreach and why it plays such a critical role in protecting children in our community.We dive into what outreach really looks like, how education and awareness can help prevent abuse, and why these conversations, while not always easy, are necessary.This episode is about showing up, staying informed, and understanding how each of us can be part of the solution.Visit their website at: cacgc.org

In this episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast, we sit down with Conner Gray, owner of All Stitched Up Puppets. From humble beginnings in 2019 to building a business rooted in quality craftsmanship, Conner shares his journey of creating custom, handcrafted puppets designed for comfort, durability, and creativity.We talk about the challenges of starting out, lessons learned along the way, and the moments that made it all worth it. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn a creative passion into something real, this episode is for you. Tune in!! Website: allstitcheduppuppets.com

Today on Hitting the Streets, I sit down with Amy Hoffman-Shehan to talk about the upcoming Texoma Earth Day Festival happening April 18th!This year’s theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” shines a light on simple, practical ways we can all reduce our environmental impact and take better care of our planet.The Texoma Earth Day Festival is a fun, family-friendly community event where everyday people can learn, connect, and walk away with real tools to make a difference.🌎 Free to attend and open to the public.Tune in to hear what you can expect, how to get involved, and why this event continues to make an impact right here in our community.Website: https://www.earthdaytexoma.org/

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast.My guest today is MJ Sumrall, a U.S. Army Veteran, recovery coach, author, and founder of triumphantlythriving.com . MJ works with service members, veterans, first responders, and trauma survivors to help them move out of survival mode and into the lives that are resilient, regulated, and intentionally thriving. Her story is one of resilience, healing, and breaking cycles of generational trauma. MJ openly shares about her own recovery journey, the challenges of living with Functional Neurological Disorder, and how trauma doesn't have to define the rest of your life. Please tune in to hear her story! Big thank you to Kim Byler for being a fantastic guest host!

Today on the show, I sit down with Rayce Guess, Vice President of the NAACP Grayson County chapter. We talk about the founding of the NAACP in 1909, the purpose behind its mission, and why its work continues to matter today.We also bring the conversation local, exploring the history of the Grayson County NAACP and the role it plays in our community. A meaningful discussion about history, justice, and the power of staying informed.

Today on the show, I’m joined by Taylor Marquez, a licensed aesthetician with over a decade of experience in the skincare and beauty industry.From working on film sets, red carpets, and special effects makeup in Los Angeles to providing personalized, results-driven treatments today, Taylor brings artistry, expertise, and genuine care to every client she serves. For her, skincare is more than a service, it’s about helping people recognize their natural beauty and feel confident, radiant, and cared for.She’s also a passionate dog rescuer (and proudly known as the “crazy dog lady”), helping pups find their furever homes.Tune in to hear her story, her journey, and her heart behind the work she does.Learn more or book with Taylor: https://spaagape.glossgenius.com/

Today on the show, I sit down with Kaneesha Worthington and Leo Ransom, two successful Black artists, to talk about the stories, experiences, and inspiration that shaped their work. From creative process to cultural expression, this discussion goes beyond the artwork and into the heart of what it truly means to create with purpose. Real voices. Real perspectives. Real conversations. Tune in!

In this episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast, we focus on the George Hughes Memorial Scholarship, a scholarship created to honor the life of George Hughes and to acknowledge a painful chapter in Sherman and Grayson County history that many are only now learning about.This conversation explores how the scholarship was established, why remembering local history matters, and how education can be a tool for healing, awareness, and change. We also discuss the role of Grace United Methodist Church in supporting this effort and the importance of investing in future generations through truth, reflection, and opportunity.This episode is an invitation to listen, learn, and engage, because understanding our past helps shape a more informed and equitable future.Tune in!

Welcome to Season 9!A birthday audio blog to kick off the year. In this first entry, I’m sharing the book that reshaped how I view my art career, giving updates on new services coming to Hitting the Streets, previewing February’s Culture on Canvas project, and celebrating a month full of wins, clients, art sales, and community support. A simple, honest look at what’s happening behind the scenes.

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast!This episode is a year-end reflection on grief, growth, and staying the course. I share the highs and lows of the past year, from navigating grief to celebrating major wins, meaningful guests, creative growth, and recognition that kept the momentum going. Please tune in!

Today on Hitting the Streets Podcast, I sat down with Britney Barker, Executive Director of the Grayson County Children's Advocacy Center, and let me tell you, this conversation opened my eyes. Their work is tough, necessary, and absolutely vital for the safety of kids in our community. Their mission is clear: to provide a multi-disciplinary collaboration of services focused on prevention, intervention, investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse. This collaborative approach reduces the risk of additional trauma, supports the recovery of child victims and non-offending family members, and helps prosecute those who commit crimes against children in Grayson County, TX.Please follow their page and visit their website for more information and how you can help this organization. https://cacgc.org/

Today is our final Talk Horror to Me. Kim and I are diving into the chilling story of Danny Rolling, better known as the Gainesville Ripper. Between 1989 and 1990, Rolling committed a series of brutal murders. First a family in Shreveport, Louisiana, then five college students in Gainesville, Florida. His crimes terrorized communities, sparked intense media coverage and panic on campus, and would go on to influence horror cinema in ways that often go unnoticed. In this episode, we’ll trace his early life and background, detail the murder sprees, follow the investigation and trial, and then explore how Rolling’s real-life horror helped shape the 1996 film Scream.Thank you Kim for being on the show this season! I appreciate all your research! See ya next year!

Today on Talk Horror to Me, Kim and I are taking you on a bone-chilling journey through three cases that still haunt America.The Axeman of New Orleans — when jazz became a weapon against evil.The Sodder Children — the Christmas Eve disappearance that defies logic.The Yogurt Shop Murders — Austin’s nightmare that’s still unsolved.Three stories. Three decades. Endless questions.Tune in!!

Listener discretion is advise. Today, Kim and I are diving into the dark, twisted story of Ed Gein — the man whose gruesome crimes inspired some of the most iconic horror movies of all time. We’re also breaking down the new show that takes a deeper look into how his chilling life blurred the line between fact and fiction.Tune in, if you dare… and don’t forget to drop your comments on what true crime or horror topic you want us to tackle next!

Talk Horror to Me!! Kim and I are back on the mic and in this one, we’re warming up with a little horror brainstorming, chatting about what spooky, twisted, or true crime topics to cover next.Tune in, and drop your suggestions in my Spotify comments, or leave them right here below 👇Can’t wait to dive into this series with you all this month!

Today on Hitting the Streets Podcast, I’m joined by the lovely Marissa Rusnow. Can’t wait for you to hear her story! 🎙️Marissa is a dedicated Survivorship Coach who found her calling after a transformative three-year battle with cancer. During her recovery, she identified a significant gap in support and resources for survivors navigating life after treatment. Driven to bridge this gap, Marissa now empowers fellow survivors to reclaim their lives with confidence and purpose. Certified as both a life coach and therapeutic arts coach, she provides guidance on reclaiming your voice, power, and inner peace. Therapeutic Collage Art is incorporated as a powerful tool for healing, expression, and self-discovery. Marissa’s mission is to ensure that no survivor feels alone on their journey to thriving beyond cancer.Please subscribe to her YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/@MzRealDealSurvivorshipcoach

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast! Today, I had the chance to sit down with Natasha Morgan, who I was connected to through Susan Hamilton. Natasha was originally supposed to join us during our grief episodes, but our schedules didn’t line up, until now. Please tune in to hear her heartfelt story about her husband and her own grief journey. Natasha is not only a powerful storyteller but also a filmmaker, and her daughter is a writer, creativity clearly runs in the family! Please visit her website. You won’t want to miss this conversation. Natasha's Website: https://www.lunaluzproductions.com/

Today on the show, I’m honored to welcome Len Leatherwood to the mic! A Bonham native who’s spent the last 33 years in California making waves in the literary world. Len is a two-time Pushcart Prize nominee, an award-winning author, and a nationally recognized writing teacher whose work has been featured in numerous literary magazines and anthologies. She’s also the voice behind a widely read blog at lenleatherwood.com, where she shares reflections on writing, family, and everyday life. In addition to her literary accomplishments, Len is a licensed professional counselor, offering a unique blend of storytelling and therapeutic insight, beautifully woven together in her debut novel, Hope in a Time of Dying, which recently won the 2025 American Fiction Award for LGBTQ+ Fiction. Today, I'm diving into her journey, discussing the inspiration behind her book, and previewing her upcoming event at Austin College.

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast!Today, I’m thrilled to sit down with Sandy Barber, Director of the Creative Arts Center in Bonham, TX. Sandy is one of the most passionate leaders in our art community, and her dedication to the arts is truly inspiring.With a wealth of knowledge in nonprofits and community building, Sandy shares insights on leadership, collaboration, and creating spaces where creativity thrives. I absolutely admire her collaborative mindset and the work she’s doing to strengthen the arts in our region.🎧 Tune in to hear her story and learn how she’s making a lasting impact in the art world!Follow their Facebook page for more informaton! https://www.facebook.com/boncreativeartscenter

The Short Game with Frank & Pam SanzaToday I’m joined by two incredible guests, Frank and Pam Sanza. Frank is the writer and director of The Short Game, a heartfelt, feel-good family film hitting theaters nationwide on August 29th. Here’s the best part: it was filmed right here in Sherman, with scenes shot at Sherman High School!This award-winning film has already taken home six Best Picture awards at festivals across the country. It tells the inspiring story of a high school golfer chasing a scholarship with the help of his younger autistic brother—whose extraordinary gift for reading the greens and wind could change everything.A huge thank you to Frank and Pam for joining me on the show. You won’t want to miss this uplifting conversation about filmmaking, family, and following your dreams.Please follow their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shortgamemovie

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast! Today on the show I have Sandy Rehkopf, President of the Sherman Chamber of Commerce, joining me on the mic! Sandy's unwavering dedication to our community and her leadership truly stand out. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to sit down and engage in such an inspiring conversation with her.Follow Sherman Chamber of Commerce on Facebook to stay updated: https://www.facebook.com/ShermanChamberOfCommerce

Welcome to another episode of Hitting The Streets Podcast!Today, I’m sitting down with the incredibly talented artist and community leader, Matt Bardwell. Matt shares his journey—from finding his artistic voice to becoming a driving force in our local art scene.🎧 You don’t want to miss this one! Tune in, get inspired, and hear how Matt is making his mark.

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast!It’s your girl, Chele Wells , your Rollin' MC — back on the mic! Today, I’m catching you up on all the things happening in my world, from the hub to the mic and everything in between.

Welcome to part four and the final episode of our Exploring Grief series. In this powerful closing chapter, I’ve invited back a few of our previous guests for a heartfelt roundtable discussion. Together, we reflect on the insights, struggles, and healing journeys shared throughout the series. This is a conversation about growth, grace, and what it really means to move forward while honoring your grief.👉 Tune in, you don’t want to miss this one.Big thanks to Whitney Tilley, Susan Hamilton and Olivia Myles for being on the show!

I was truly honored to sit down with Olivia Myles, a remarkable woman whose story is both heartbreaking and deeply inspiring. Olivia is a mother of five who experienced the unimaginable loss of her second-born son to an accidental drowning. She knows grief intimately, but she also knows what it means to live after grief. For the past 10 years, Olivia has turned to journaling as a powerful tool for healing. Through that journey, she discovered something many grief books miss, grief doesn’t respond to inspiration alone. It takes intentional work, and Olivia provides just that with her carefully crafted journal prompts designed to guide others step by step through their own healing process. Also joining us was Chani Bergen, who shared a deeply moving story about the loss of her fiancé and how Olivia helped her begin to heal.This is a conversation about loss, love, and the slow return to light. You can find Olivia's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Grief-Freedom-Journal-Spiritual-Through/dp/1664216545

Welcome to Beyond the Dark Pages , the show where we dive into the chilling worlds of horror, thrillers, and mystery. I’m your host, Chele Wells, joined by my co-host, the insightful Spooky Little Book Nerd Together, we discuss books from our book club , exploring everything from complex characters and twisted plots to author intent and the themes that keep us thinking long after the final page. Listener discretion is advised, as some content may be dark or disturbing. Tune in and join the conversation as we go beyond the dark pages.

Welcome to part two of our four part series, Exploring Grief. Today on the show I have Susan Hamilton. Susan is based in Denison, Texas, and works with the Denison Chamber, helping local businesses grow through connection, collaboration, and creative promotion. Her background includes working in sales at KXII-TV, where she developed a strong foundation in marketing, messaging, and relationship-building. Filmmaking has long been a creative outlet, especially when shared with her father, who often appeared in her commercials and projects. After the passing of her mother, Susan became the full-time caregiver for her father during his journey with dementia, an experience that brought both challenges and meaningful personal growth. In this conversation tonight, Susan and I will talk about the passing of our parents and also share openly about navigating grief, and how creativity and community have played a role in healing.

Welcome to our four part series on Exploring Grief.This episode kicks off a powerful four-part series about grief the kind that shakes you, shapes you, and slowly teaches you how to keep moving forward.Six months ago, Whitney Tilley experienced an unimaginable loss, the sudden passing of her husband. Since that day, she’s been walking through grief with raw honesty, quiet strength, and unwavering courage.In this deeply personal conversation, Whitney and I open up about the weight of loss, the power of love, and the winding road of healing. We talk about what keeps us going on the darkest days, and how even in heartbreak, there’s hope.Big thanks to Courtney Mitchell Photography for sponsoring this episode!

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast! In today’s show, I'm bringing you a round table discussion with local artists as we dive into a powerful topic: What does an art community look like to you? Each guest shares their unique perspective, personal experiences, and hopes for building a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving creative space. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about connection, collaboration, and what it truly means to be part of an art community.Big thanks to Janet Suchevich, Timothy Rainer, Stephenie Anderson, Krystal Skinner and Ruth Williamson for being on the show!

Welcome to Beyond the Dark Pages , the show where we dive into the chilling worlds of horror, thrillers, and mystery. I’m your host, Chele Wells, joined by my co-host, the insightful Spooky Little Book Nerd. Together, we discuss books from our book club, exploring everything from complex characters and twisted plots to author intent and the themes that keep us thinking long after the final page. Listener discretion is advised, as some content may be dark or disturbing. Tune in and join the conversation as we go beyond the dark pages.

In this episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast, I sit down with Stuart Holcomb, the director of The Sherman Museum, a cornerstone of our community since 1976. As a non-profit educational 501(c)(3) organization, the museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history and culture of Grayson County and beyond. Tune In! Follow The Sherman Museum on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theshermanmuseum

Hitting the Streets Podcast welcome Kara Stacks, owner of Prince ABA Consulting. Today is our final episode of our Autism awareness series! Kara's work in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is making a difference in the lives of individuals and families. Together, we'll explore the impact of ABA the challenges and triumphs within the autism community, and how we can all do our part to foster understanding and inclusion. Tune in and join us in raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and celebrating neurodiversity! Visit their website for more information: princeaba.com

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast! Today on the show, I have Blake Utter, owner of Blake Utter Ford. Tune in to hear how he got started in the car business and how he has achieved success over the years. A big thanks to Blake Utter and the Ford family for being the Big Block Sponsor for Hot Rods for Humanity, benefiting CASA of Grayson County, Inc.Follow them on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/blakeutterford

On this episode of Hitting The Streets Podcast, I sit down with Kelssi Williams Frederick, candidate for Sherman School Board Place 4.As a teacher, parent, and passionate advocate for our schools, Kelssi brings five years of classroom experience and a personal connection to the district through her own child. Tune in to hear her vision for supporting students, teachers, and families across Sherman ISD.You can follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573355484374

Hitting the Streets Podcast welcome Kara Stacks, owner of Prince ABA Consulting. Today is part 3 of our 4 part series dedicated to autism awareness and advocacy. Kara's work in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is making a difference in the lives of individuals and families. Together, we'll explore the impact of ABA the challenges and triumphs within the autism community, and how we can all do our part to foster understanding and inclusion. Tune in and join us in raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and celebrating neurodiversity! Visit their website for more information: princeaba.com

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast. Today on the show I have James Hamilton the executive director of CASA of Grayson County, INC. Please tune in to hear how he got involved with this non profit organization, their mission and the upcoming event for Hot Rods for Humanity! Please visit their website: https://casagrayson.com/

Hitting the Streets Podcast welcome Kara Stacks, owner of Prince ABA Consulting. Today is part 2 of our 4 part series dedicated to autism awareness and advocacy. Kara's work in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is making a difference in the lives of individuals and families. Together, we'll explore the impact of ABA the challenges and triumphs within the autism community, and how we can all do our part to foster understanding and inclusion. Tune in and join us in raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and celebrating neurodiversity! Visit their website for more information: princeaba.com

Hitting The Streets Podcast welcome Kara Stacks, owner of Prince ABA Consulting to the show. Today is part 1 of a 4-part series dedicated to autism awareness and advocacy. Kara’s work in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is making a difference in the lives of individuals and families. Together, we’ll explore the impact of ABA, the challenges and triumphs within the autism community, and how we can all do our part to foster understanding and inclusion. Tune in and join us in raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and celebrating neurodiversity!Follow Prince ABA Consulting on FB for more information. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076223461844

It’s time for another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast! Today, I’m joined by the amazing Taylor Batton, owner of Sundrop Books! 📚✨ Tune in as she shares her journey into the book business and the story behind her beloved bookstore.Don’t miss this one—hit play now!Follow Sundrop Books on FB: https://www.facebook.com/sundropbooks

Welcome to another episode of Hitting The Streets Podcast! Today on the show I have the wonderful Angela Watrous owner of Texoma Commercial Cleaning. Tune in to hear her story and how she started her cleaning business. Follow Texoma Commercial Cleaning on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TexomaCommercialCleaningFor reliable and professional commercial cleaning services in Texoma, trust the experts at Texoma Commercial Cleaning. We understand that maintaining a clean and presentable workspace is essential for your business's success, but it can be challenging to keep up with on your own. That’s where our dedicated team comes in!When you're ready to work with a team that prioritizes cleanliness, professionalism, and your business’s success, call Texoma Commercial Cleaning. Let us create a cleaner, healthier environment for you and your team.

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast. Today on the show I have a returning guest, Melissa Cole. Please tune in to hear her exciting news about the Historical Marker for 1930 Sherman Riot. George Hughes was accused of raping a white woman at his employer's farm near Sherman. Hughes was later brought to the Sherman courthouse for trial when a mob gathered. May 9, 1930, George Hughes was lynched, the Grayson County Courthouse was burned to the ground, and the black business district on Mulberry Street was destroyed. Although this story happened a long time ago, racism still continues to affect us today.

Welcome to another episode ofHitting The Streets Podcast! Today, I’m joined by Chani M. Bergen, a Financial Consultant and Insurance Agent. Tune in to hear her story and how she started in the insurance business!Visit her website: https://www.newyorklife.com/agent/cmbergen

Aunt Pearl’s Biscuit is an eclectic local band with a diverse range of music and original songs. Tune in to hear how they got started! Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShanDanAuntPearls/about

Wrapping up 2024! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported me this year—I appreciate you more than words can say. To my incredible members, guests, and listeners: your support has been the foundation of this podcast and everything I do. I’m deeply grateful for each and every one of you! Here's to 2025!

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast! Today, I’m excited to introduce a very special guest, Sarah Key. Sarah is an exceptional barber based right here in the Texoma area. She’s also a devoted wife, a mother of three, and a dedicated caretaker. In this episode, Sarah shares her insights on entrepreneurship and the art of balancing life while running a business. A big thank you to Sarah for joining me on the show—I know you’ll love hearing her inspiring story! Tune in now! Follow her on IG @skey82 Book online: https://sarah-key.square.site/

Sophia Suttenfield Aughinbaugh Coffee Butt Porter Part 2 Wrapping up Sophia's unforgettable stories! On today’s episode, I’m joined by Aaron Thornhill, Executive Director of Frontier Village, as he dives into her captivating history. Don’t miss it! Follow Frontier Village on FB: https://www.facebook.com/@FrontierVillageofGraysonCo

Sophia Suttenfield Aughinbaugh Coffee Butt Porter Part 1 One of the most colorful—and notorious—figures to ever inhabit the Red River Valley, Sophia left behind a legacy full of wild stories and intrigue. Today on the show, I’m joined by Aaron Thornhill, Executive Director of Frontier Village, as he shares her fascinating tale. You won’t want to miss this one! 🎙️✨

Welcome to another episode of Hitting the Streets Podcast! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce my special guest, Anne House—a soulful singer with her own open mic podcast. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and learn how she got started on her musical journey! Follow her on FB: https://www.facebook.com/openmicwannehouse