If You Denton Know... Now You Know!

If You Denton Know Pat Smith, now you do.Pat Smith is the founder and CEO of Serve Denton, a nonprofit hub that houses 25 partner organizations under one roof and was built entirely without government funding. A Denton native, retired Air Force colonel, and son of two of Denton's most beloved small business owners, Pat brings decades of leadership experience to a mission rooted in his hometown. His story is a window into how one community came together to create something rare in the nonprofit world.In this episode, listeners will hear how Serve Denton went from a vacant church sanctuary to a 10 million dollar campus, why Pat partnered with Toyota to bring world class operations to a nonprofit, and how a difficult Pentagon assignment shaped his approach to servant leadership. It is a conversation about hope, hometown roots, and what it looks like when private investment, faith, and good leadership build something that lasts.Guest BioPat Smith is the founder and CEO of Serve Denton, the nonprofit center that partners with 25 organizations to better serve people in need across Denton County. A Denton native and retired Air Force colonel, Pat spent 28 years in the military managing large scale construction and housing projects before returning home to launch Serve Denton in 2012. He is the son of Jim Smith of the legendary Jim's Diner and Rose Smith of Rose Costumes.Key Topics CoveredGrowing up in Denton and the legacy of Jim's Diner and Rose CostumesPat's 28 year Air Force career, from the Academy to the PentagonThe leadership lessons that shaped his philosophy of servant leadershipHow losing his father became the catalyst for Serve DentonTurning a vacant church sanctuary into a 10 million dollar nonprofit hubPartnering with Toyota to bring the Toyota Production System to nonprofitsWhy Serve Denton operates without government fundingExpanding the model to other Texas cities and beyondTimestamps00:00 — Guest introduction 01:00 — The original 1976 vision for a human services center 01:45 — Jim's Diner, Rose Costumes, and growing up in Denton 04:35 — From the Air Force Academy to building air bases overseas 07:03 — The Pentagon assignment that defined his leadership philosophy 12:07 — Losing his dad and finding a new calling 15:34 — Launching Serve Denton with Tommy Nelson's blessing 17:21 — Buying the building and the new market tax credit breakthrough 19:38 — Bringing Toyota Production System to the nonprofit world 22:30 — The mission, the model, and staying in their lane 30:24 — Teaching servant leadership to the next generation 37:05 — Denton favorites and upcoming eventsDenton HighlightsJim's Diner on Fry StreetRose CostumesMetzler's BarbecueDan's SilverleafFine Arts TheaterCartwright's Ranch HouseGuest Links and ResourcesServe Denton website: servedenton.orgEmail: [email protected] event: Dragon Boat Races on Lake Lewisville, June 27Upcoming event: Christmas concert with David Pierce at the Fine Arts Theater, December 21

If You Denton Know Tommy Mainord, now you do.Coach Tommy Mainord returns to the University of North Texas in a brand new role, stepping off the football field and into one of the most talked about positions in college athletics. After more than a decade in Denton and a career that took him from Tarleton State to Texas Tech, Kentucky, and back to UNT, Tommy now serves as Senior Associate Athletic Director for NIL and Football Strategy.In this conversation, Tommy breaks down the rapidly changing landscape of college sports, including NIL, revenue sharing, and the transfer portal. He explains how UNT is building its strategy in real time, why local businesses and alumni play such a vital role, and how the success of Mean Green athletics ripples out to lift restaurants, hotels, and the entire Denton community. It is a candid look at where college football is headed and how Denton fits into the bigger picture.Guest BioTommy Mainord is the Senior Associate Athletic Director for NIL and Football Strategy at the University of North Texas. A Texas native who grew up around the game as the son of a longtime football coach, Tommy spent seven years as an assistant coach at UNT, helping develop standout players like All American Jaylen Darden. He has coached at Tarleton State, Sam Houston State, Lamar, Texas Tech, and Kentucky throughout his career.Key Topics CoveredTommy's journey from coaches' kid to college coachCoaching stops across Texas, Kentucky, and the Big 12Returning to UNT in a new front office roleThe difference between NIL and revenue sharing explainedThe 21.4 million dollar national rev share capHow technology and AI have transformed recruiting and game prepWhat the next five years could look like for college athleticsHow Denton businesses of any size can get involved with UNT athleticsTimestamps00:00 Welcome and introduction 01:06 Navigating the new world of NIL 02:08 Growing up as a coach's son 03:07 Choosing baseball, then football at Tarleton State 05:08 Career stops from Lamar to Texas Tech to Kentucky 07:14 Coaching Jaylen Darden at UNT 10:22 The new role and the longest title in college sports 11:26 NIL versus revenue sharing 16:02 How technology changed recruiting and game planning 22:33 How local businesses can get involved 25:22 Favorite spots around DentonDenton HighlightsThe Denton SquareLocal Mexican food spots around the squareDenton barbecue restaurantsGuest Links and ResourcesEmail Tommy directly at [email protected] of North Texas Athletics: meangreensports.com

If You Denton Know the City of Denton Candidates, now you do.Episode DescriptionElection time is here, and this one is huge. Denton voters are filling four council seats and the mayor position, with early voting ending April 28 and election day on May 2. To help the community make informed choices at the ballot box, every candidate was invited onto the show to answer two simple questions: What do you love most about Denton, and what is your vision for the city if elected?This special episode brings together the candidates for Mayor, District 1, District 2, Place 5, and Place 6 in one place. Each conversation is short, focused, and designed to let the candidates speak for themselves. Use this episode as a tool to learn what each candidate values, where they want to take Denton, and how their priorities line up with yours. Then get out and vote.Key Topics CoveredWhat each candidate loves most about the city of DentonEach candidate's vision for Denton if electedThe values and priorities shaping the 2026 city racesPerspectives from candidates running for Mayor, District 1, District 2, Place 5, and Place 6Why local elections matter for Denton's futureA reminder to participate in early voting and election dayTimestamps02:22 Mayor02:37 Chris Watts15:02 Brian Beck27:15 Angela Brewer36:17 District 136:33 Michael Herron42:57 Jordan Villarreal50:47 Kris Cox57:59 District 258:13 Nick Stevens1:05:52 Robert J Archer III1:11:47 Place 51:12:07 George Michael Ferrie1:20:57 Erica Garland1:28:35 Place 61:28:52 Jill JesterVoting InformationEarly voting ends April 28Election day is May 2Seats on the ballot: Mayor, District 1, District 2, Place 5, Place 6For more information, visit https://www.votedenton.gov/election-day-information/current-and-upcoming-election-information/

If You Denton Know Peter Salisbury, now you do. From launching a tiny AM station in his living room to building KUZU 92.9 FM into a 24/7 community-powered radio station, Peter shares how passion, persistence, and local music shaped one of Denton’s most grassroots success stories.In this episode, Peter talks about growing up in Texas, falling in love with Denton’s music scene, and the long road to securing an FM license. He explains how KUZU operates entirely with volunteers, how anyone in the community can host a show, and why local voices still matter in a world dominated by corporate media.If you’ve ever wondered how community radio works, how KUZU got started, or how you could become part of Denton’s creative scene, this episode is for you.⏱️ Key Timestamps00:00 — Meet Peter Salisbury & the Story of KUZU RadioPeter shares his background in photography and how he found his creative home in Denton.04:15 — Growing Up in Texas & Finding DentonFrom Houston to Garland to UNT, Peter talks about why Denton became home.08:40 — The Birth of KUZU: A Radio Station in a Living RoomHow an empty bedroom and a small AM transmitter sparked the KUZU idea.14:20 — From Backyard Radio to FM LicensingThe multi-year journey to securing a Low Power FM license.20:45 — Building KUZU with Volunteers & Community SupportHow friends, board members, and community members helped bring KUZU to life.26:10 — How KUZU Programming WorksAnyone can apply to host a show and contribute to the station.31:30 — The Volunteer Model & Funding the StationWhy KUZU runs entirely on volunteers and membership donations.36:50 — Lessons Learned from Building a Radio StationPeter reflects on fear, persistence, and learning as he went.41:10 — KUZU’s Future & Vision for GrowthPlans for expanding programming and eventually owning a dedicated studio.44:10 — Denton FavoritesPeter shares his favorite local spots to relax and recharge.🎧 Episode HighlightsHow KUZU started as a tiny AM station in a spare bedroomWhat it takes to secure an FCC radio licenseWhy community radio still matters todayHow KUZU operates entirely on volunteersHow local musicians and creators benefit from the platformWhy anyone in Denton can host their own radio showThe story behind KUZU’s first broadcastLessons learned from building something from scratch📻 About KUZU RadioKUZU 92.9 FM is Denton’s volunteer-powered community radio station. Broadcasting 24/7, KUZU features freeform programming, local voices, independent music, talk shows, interviews, and creative content from over 50 volunteer producers.The station exists to amplify local culture, support independent artists, and give everyday community members a voice on the air.Learn more or apply to host a show:🌐 kuzu.fm🍳 Denton Favorites (From Peter)Cartwright’s Ranch House — A go-to spot for breakfast and coffeeJupiter House — Favorite order: smoked salmon bagel with a mochaNorman Roscoe — A favorite stop on the Square🔑 Key TakeawaysBig ideas often start small, sometimes in spare bedrooms.Community-driven projects can thrive without corporate backing.Fear of failure is often the biggest obstacle to starting something meaningful.Local media still plays a powerful role in shaping culture.Denton’s creative community continues to fuel innovation and collaboration.

If You Denton Know Jason Reimer, now you do.On this episode of If You Denton Know, we sit down with musician, filmmaker, and creative director Jason Reimer to talk about one of the most anticipated projects in Denton… the revival of the historic Fine Arts Theatre.Jason has spent years shaping unique cinematic and live experiences through his work at the Texas Theatre in Dallas, as well as through film, music, and multimedia production. Now, he’s bringing that same vision to Denton in a way that’s deeply rooted in the culture and creativity of the community.Brad and Jason dive into what it’s been like working together behind the scenes on this project, why this theatre matters so much to Denton, and what people can expect when the doors finally open.From independent films and live performances to 70MM, 35MM, and DCP projection, the Fine Arts Theatre is set to become a one-of-a-kind destination for cinephiles, creatives, and anyone who loves the arts.This isn’t just a movie theatre… it’s a cultural hub in the making.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeJason’s journey from music to filmmaking to theatre ownershipThe story behind the Texas Theatre and how it was brought back to lifeHow those lessons are shaping the Fine Arts Theatre in DentonWhat makes this theatre different from anything else in the areaThe vision for programming: films, concerts, events, and moreWhy 70MM film projection is such a big dealHow the theatre will serve Denton’s creative communityWhat the renovation process has looked like behind the scenesWhen the community can expect the theatre to openWhy This Matters for DentonThe Fine Arts Theatre has been a missing piece of Denton’s cultural landscape for years. Its revival represents more than just reopening a building, it’s about creating a space where film, music, and community come together.With Jason’s experience and vision, paired with a deep commitment to making it feel authentic to Denton, this project has the potential to become one of the most meaningful creative hubs in the city.About Jason ReimerJason Reimer is a musician, filmmaker, and producer whose work spans music, film, and live performance. He has composed film scores, directed music videos, and worked with major brands like Coca-Cola and Jack Daniel’s.He is co-founder of the Oak Cliff Film Festival and a partner in Aviation Cinemas, serving as Creative Director of the historic Texas Theatre in Dallas. His work continues to push the boundaries of how film and live experiences intersect.Connect & Stay UpdatedFollow along for updates on the Fine Arts Theatre opening, upcoming programming, and special events as Denton prepares to welcome this iconic space back to life.@fineartsdentonTexas Fine Arts Theatre

If You Denton Know Dr. Carine Feyten, now you do.Chancellor and President of Texas Woman’s University, Carine M. Feyten, PhD joins Brad in The Den for a wide-ranging conversation on TWU’s 125-year legacy, her journey from Belgium to Denton, and what it looks like to lead a “campus with a heart.” They dive into TWU’s woman-focused mission, whole-person development, major campus growth, the new Health Sciences Center, and why athletics has become a powerful front door to the university.Key Topics CoveredTWU’s 125-year history and the university’s mission todayBelgium upbringing, bilingual roots, and what brought her to the U.S.Language as “windows on the world” and why it shapes leadership“Campus with a heart” and whole-person development (mind, money, health, purpose)New Health Sciences Center and interprofessional education modelAviation program launch and finding unmet needsTWU athletics growth, national rankings, and academic excellenceBuilding visibility, partnerships with Denton, and lessons from leadershipAdvice to young women on leadership, courage, and failing fastDenton favorites and places she lovesTimestamps00:00 Intro: Belgium to Denton, institution-builder, and TWU’s defining chapter02:17 TWU at 125 years and why the mission still matters04:44 What it means to be a university system and the women-focused distinction07:15 Growing up bilingual in Belgium and switching languages in school09:11 Why she came to the U.S. and choosing to stay12:33 “Languages are windows on the world”19:07 First impressions of Denton and what sealed TWU for her20:04 “Campus with a heart” and why it took off21:45 Whole-person development, wellbeing, and why TWU “walks the talk”26:14 The new Health Sciences Center, interprofessional education, and rural clinics30:27 Aviation program, women in pilots, and building programs fast35:33 Athletics, campus spirit, and why sports are the front door39:05 Big decisions, identity, and focusing on TWU’s “gift to the table”41:16 Missteps, listening, and building relationships with the city48:07 Advice: leadership without titles, bravery over perfection51:55 Where to follow her and learn more about TWUMemorable Moments and TakeawaysA women-focused environment changes who steps up. With fewer men on campus, women lead more naturally and consistently, building confidence and voice.Education is bigger than academics. TWU’s wellbeing focus is designed to help graduates thrive in health, finances, relationships, and purpose.The Health Sciences Center is about teamwork. Interprofessional education mirrors real patient care and strengthens outcomes, especially for rural communities.Find the niche, fill the gap. Aviation and women’s wrestling are examples of identifying needs others have not addressed.Leadership is built, not granted. Titles do not make leaders. Curiosity, courage, and contribution do.Guest BioDr. Carine Feyten is the Chancellor and President of Texas Woman’s University. A native of Belgium and fluent in five languages, she is a published scholar and higher education leader who has guided TWU through major growth, new programs, and an expanded statewide footprint while strengthening the university’s distinctive woman-focused mission and culture of care.Follow Dr. Feyten on social media! @twupres

If You Denton Know Joshua Butler, now you do.Joshua Butler, founder of Thin Line Fest, joins Brad to talk about what it takes to build a lasting creative institution in Denton. They unpack Joshua’s path from Houston to UNT, the early days of Texas Filmmakers, and why Thin Line has stayed rooted in documentary storytelling for nearly two decades. Joshua also previews what’s coming March 18–22, including films, music, photography exhibits, and new late night dance parties, plus the behind the scenes challenges of funding, venues, and competing for premieres in a crowded festival landscape.Key TakeawaysHow Texas Filmmakers started as a student organization and became a lasting nonprofitWhy Thin Line focuses on documentaries, and what “truth” really means in filmWhat makes Thin Line Fest unique: downtown, walkable, volunteer driven, and freeA preview of Thin Line Fest March 18–22 (film, music, photo, and new additions)The real logistics: venues, budgets, staffing, premieres, and competing with bigger marketsJoshua’s career path from local media to major event production, then the pivot during COVIDDenton community culture, darts, favorite hangs, and a documentary recommendationLearn more about Thin Line Fest: March 18–22 in downtown Denton. Film, music, photography, and late night events, all walkable and volunteer driven. Find the full schedule and details at Thin Line Fest online. https://www.thinline.us/

If You Denton Know David Pierce, now you do.In this episode, we sit down with David Pierce, composer, educator, and the creative force behind Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival. David shares his journey from growing up in South Texas to becoming one of the key figures shaping Denton’s music and cultural scene. We talk about creativity, community, risk-taking, and how one Halloween show evolved into one of Denton’s most beloved annual traditions.Episode HighlightsGrowing up in Corpus Christi and being immersed in Mexican and Tex-Mex cultureDiscovering music early, from piano to trombone, and finding jazz as a teenagerComing to Denton in 1994 to attend University of North Texas and falling in love with the cityTeaching band and building an award-winning jazz program in Southlake Carroll ISDMaking the leap from teaching to full-time composing and arrangingCreating Cirque du Horror and why it became a turning point creativelyHow a grassroots block party grew into Denton’s Day of the Dead FestivalThe origins of the coffin races and why they put the festival on the mapWhat goes into running a 30,000 to 40,000 person community festivalPartnering with local businesses, artists, and breweries to keep the festival truly DentonGiving back through donations to Serve Denton, Cumberland Youth and Family Services, and other local charitiesBehind the FestivalDavid walks through the behind-the-scenes reality of planning a major outdoor festival. From grant writing and fundraising to weather risks and year-round preparation, he shares why the emotional investment is worth it when he sees the joy the festival brings to the community. What started as a $5,500 event has grown into a six-figure production that continues to give back more each year.Upcoming EventCirque du Horror Presents: A Moonlit Monster BallSaturday, February 21, 20266:00 PM to 10:00 PMPatterson Appleton Arts CenterA gothic Valentine’s season fundraiser benefiting Denton’s Day of the Dead FestivalFeaturing haunting cocktails, a chef-curated dinner, a raffle, dancing, and a special performance by Cirque du Horror’s Orchestra of the UndeadSuggested attire: elegant, spooky, monstrous Halloween gala vibes🎟️ Tickets and info available at: DentonDayOfTheDeadFestival.com

If You Denton Know Morgan Kennedy, now you do.Every building tells a story, and Architect Morgan Kennedy helps shape how those stories get built. Morgan shares how she went from growing up in Plano to studying architecture at Oklahoma State, earning a traveling fellowship, and practicing in places like Seattle, Oklahoma City, and beyond. We talk about what architects really do, why adaptive reuse matters, how codes and city review shape projects in Denton, and what changes could make downtown even more walkable and connected. Plus, Morgan shares her favorite Denton spots and what she’s most excited about in 2026.Short SummaryAward-winning Architect Morgan Kennedy talks Denton’s design future, adaptive reuse, and what architects actually do.Key Topics CoveredMorgan’s upbringing in Plano and early interest in designArchitecture school, the Caudill traveling fellowship, and what it taught herWorking in Seattle and Oklahoma City and how those places shaped her thinkingWhy she chose Denton and why she prioritizes local projectsWhat a comprehensive design architect does beyond “drawing buildings”O-A-C: owner, architect, contractor and why it matters earlyHow AI fits into architecture and where it helpsDenton’s walkability, downtown growth, and what she would improveMixed-use, “third places,” and why downtown needs more options (including grocery)Projects and concepts she’s excited about heading into 2026Morgan M. Kennedy, AIA, NCARB Founding Principal Architect and Director of Design, MKOA Studiomkoastudio.com

If You Denton Know Seth Morgan, now you do.In this episode, Brad sits down with Seth Morgan, founder of Denton County Brewing Company, to talk about purpose, perseverance, community, and what it really took to open Denton’s first downtown brewery. From a 25 year career in financial services to global missionary work and nonprofit leadership, Seth’s story is about far more than beer.Episode OverviewSeth shares how a life changing year as an exchange student in England shaped his view of beer as a community builder, not just a beverage. That idea stayed with him through decades in the corporate world, eventually becoming the foundation for Denton County Brewing Company.The conversation explores the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, including navigating changing Texas brewery laws, surviving 84 inspections, being scammed by a faulty brew equipment supplier, and pushing through the uncertainty of the pandemic.Key Topics DiscussedGrowing up in Texas and finding home in DentonStudying abroad in England and discovering pub culture as a community spaceA 28 year career in financial services and brewing on the sideVisiting hundreds of breweries across the country while traveling for workThe moment Seth’s wife challenged him to stop talking and start buildingHow a 2015 Texas law change opened the door for downtown breweriesRenovating the McKinney Street building and surviving 84 inspectionsBeing scammed on brewing equipment and working with the FBILeading with a “burn the ships” mindset through early setbacksNavigating COVID with a people first philosophyPivoting into distribution, canning, and new revenue streamsDenton stepping up during crises including COVID and the ice stormFounding Orant Charities and two decades of humanitarian workWhy Malawi became the focus of their nonprofit missionBuilding sustainable systems around water, food, medicine, education, and microfinanceBrewing philosophy and why simple beers are the hardest to get rightAbout the GuestSeth Morgan is the founder of Denton County Brewing Company and former Chair of the Denton Chamber of Commerce. He is also the co founder of Orant Charities, a nonprofit focused on long term poverty alleviation through clean water, healthcare, education, and economic development in Africa and beyond.Closing ThoughtThis episode is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and keeping people at the center of everything you build. Whether you are an entrepreneur, community leader, or someone searching for purpose, Seth’s story offers powerful lessons on choosing integrity and perseverance when the path forward is unclear.

If You Denton Know Hank Dickenson, now you do.In this episode, Brad sits down with one of the most recognizable voices and relationship builders in town. Hank Dickenson spent more than two decades inside UNT Athletics as a deputy athletic director and broadcaster, then pivoted into his role as Director of Membership for the Denton Chamber of Commerce, all while serving on some of the most impactful nonprofit boards in the community.You will hear Hank talk about:Growing up in Overland Park, Kansas, why his dad always told him to “get to Texas,” and how KU and campus radio pulled him into the world of sports.Falling in love with radio play by play, what makes good broadcasting, and the difference between calling a game on radio versus TV.Lessons learned from working alongside legends like George Dunham and Dave Barnett, and why preparation is the secret ingredient listeners never see.His long run inside UNT Athletics, working on the “external side” of the house with corporate partners, fundraising, and supporting multiple sports.How Mean Green Sports Properties and the Apogee (now DATCU) Stadium naming rights deal came together, and why that stadium became a true community gathering place.Honest thoughts on how college athletics has changed with NIL, private equity, and the growing resource gap between schools, plus where he sees UNT football and basketball heading from here.Why he chose to retire from athletic administration, keep broadcasting and teaching, and move into a full time role with the Denton Chamber of Commerce.What makes Denton a “scratch your back” town, how the Chamber really works for local businesses, and simple advice for anyone who wants to get better connected.The work of Serve Denton, the Salvation Army, and other local nonprofits, and how board service can be both deeply meaningful and a powerful way to meet great people.You will also hear Hank shout out some of his favorite Denton spots to eat, drink coffee, and catch up with friends, plus a few stories from the road that only a longtime broadcaster can tell.If you enjoy this episode, share it with a Mean Green fan, a Chamber member, or someone who wants to plug into the Denton community.

If You Denton Know Gerard Hudspeth, now you do.Mayor Hudspeth has been serving this city long before he ever wore the mayor’s pin. In this episode, Brad sits down with Denton’s head honcho to talk about growing up here, leading through crisis, loving small business, and what comes next as Gerard runs for Denton County Commissioner.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Growing up a Denton kid, taking the “scenic route” through NCTC and UNT, and why he never really leftHow a nudge from others led him from Planning and Zoning to City Council to the mayor’s seatWhat it was like to become mayor in 2020 during a pandemic, protests, and a historic winter stormHow faith, community, and strong city staff helped him lead through chaosHis core priorities as mayor: keeping families safe, responsible growth, protecting quality of life, and supporting small businessWhy Landmark and the west side growth matter for Denton’s future, from entry level homes to executive housingHis full time role with Freeit Data Solutions and what it takes to balance a sales career with a “volunteer job” as mayorBeing Denton’s first Black mayor, lessons on respect, and how his family’s story fits into Denton’s historyWhy good people should still run for local office, even when it looks messy from the outsideHis next chapter, running for Denton County Commissioner, and how city experience can help shape the whole countyConnect with Mayor Gerard Hudspeth:Website: gerardfordenton.comSocial: Facebook @Gerard For Denton and Instagram @hudspethgerard

If You Denton Know Gary Weiland, now you do.After a freak knee injury at a Thanksgiving turkey bowl in 2018, Denton firefighter Gary Weiland woke up to the news that his leg would be amputated. In this episode, Gary shares how that moment turned his world upside down and how choosing to “Adapt and Overcome” led him back to full duty firefighting, onto the American Ninja Warrior course, into Team USA para athletics, and into classrooms and stages around the country as a speaker and author.From family, faith, and the Denton fire community rallying around him to the mindset shift from “Why did this happen to me?” to “Why did this happen for me?”, Gary’s story is a masterclass in resilience and purpose.In this episodeGrowing up in Illinois and how he ended up in DentonWhy he walked away from retail to serve his community as a firefighterThe 2018 turkey bowl injury that led to emergency surgery and amputationProcessing shock, fear, and identity when life changes overnightHow the Denton Fire Department, leadership, and crew rallied around himLearning to walk, run, gear up, climb ladders, pull dummies, and fight fire on a prosthetic legDiscovering para sports, the Endeavor Games, and bobsled in Lake Placid and NorwayGetting hooked on ninja competitions and eventually competing on American Ninja WarriorWhat it felt like to clear obstacles on national TV and inspire people around the worldSpeaking to thousands of students and adults about overcoming adversityWriting Fischer’s Accident and using children’s books to normalize amputees and differencesThe heart behind his A&O brand and the “Adapt and Overcome” mindsetHow faith, his wife, and his kids anchor him on the hard daysSeeing his amputation as a blessing that opened unexpected doorsConnect with GaryWebsite: garyweiland.comSocial: Facebook @Gary Weiland and Instagram @gary_weilandA&O merch and partnerships: aye-n-o.comIf Gary’s story resonates, consider bringing him in to speak to your school, business, team, or community group, or partnering with his Adapt and Overcome brand to share the message that you can do hard things.

If You Denton Know Ryan Polly, now you do.Ryan Polly has been chasing stories that make people laugh, scream, and feel something real. A writer, director, and co-founder of Weekend Video, Ryan’s work spans from creative ad campaigns for Nintendo, Pizza Hut, and ESPN to his debut feature film MONITOR.In this episode, Ryan shares how a kid from Denton found his voice in filmmaking, built a creative career from scratch, and learned to balance the worlds of commercials and cinema. He opens up about the projects that shaped him, the lessons that stuck, and how Denton’s creative energy still fuels his work today.Check out his work!ryan-polly.comweekend.video

If You Denton Know Gary Henderson, now you do.Gary Henderson is the President and CEO of United Way of Denton County, but he did not start in the nonprofit world. In this episode, Gary shares how he went from a successful career in finance at Price Waterhouse and Bank of America to a life focused on helping Denton County families, what United Way actually does locally, who in our community needs the most help, and how small gifts and volunteer efforts add up to big impact. Find out how you can get involved at unitedwaydenton.org.In this episode00:00 – Gary’s path from finance to nonprofit leadership How a demanding travel schedule, a moment with his daughter, and years of mission work led him to pursue significance over success.05:30 – Taking the leap into Communities In Schools The unexpected signs that pointed him toward CIS and the early days of nonprofit leadership.09:45 – What United Way of Denton County really does The history, the model, and why every local United Way looks different based on community needs.14:40 – Denton County’s biggest challenges today A breakdown of ALICE households, who is most vulnerable, and why single moms and seniors face increasing pressure in our growing county.21:20 – The power of collaboration How nonprofits, cities, schools, businesses, and elected officials work together through collective impact.28:10 – How you can help and get involved Small donations, workplace campaigns, volunteer opportunities, the annual gala, VITA tax help, and the Point in Time homelessness count.

If You Denton Know Landmark, now you do. I sat down with Kim Cole and Andrew Pieper from Hillwood to discuss Landmark, a 3,200-acre master-planned community on Denton’s southwest side that blends preserved nature, new neighborhoods, and a commercial district anchored by H-E-B. 

If You Denton Know Dr. Shaun Treat, now you do.The former UNT professor, Denton historian, and founder of Lil’ D-Tours and Denton Haunts shares courthouse legends, Fine Arts Theatre ghost stories, and the surprising history of Denton’s trolley with a case for bringing it back. We talk walkable streets, first-Friday art walks, favorite local spots like Chestnut Tree, and how to book custom haunted and historical tours for families, teams, and visitors. 

If You Denton Know Eric Pulido, now you do. Frontman of Midlake, creator of E.B. The Younger, and co-founder of Norman Roscoe, Eric’s story is pure Denton gold. He shares how a college side-gig turned into touring the world, the evolution of Midlake’s sound, and what it’s like to step into the front-man role. We also dive into his creative ventures—Paschall Bar, Norman Roscoe, and his deep roots in Denton’s downtown scene, plus a sneak peek at Midlake’s new album A Bridge Too Far, releasing November 7. Check out his work:MidlakeE.B. The YoungerNorman RoscoePaschall Bar

If You Denton Know Kevin Roden, now you do. Kevin traces his path from jazz drums and philosophy to civic leadership and ed-tech growth, including ReadyRosie’s acquisition and his current work at Teaching Strategies. We talk Fry Street roots, practicing democracy at the neighborhood level, and why his corner office view of the square never gets old. Check out the awesome things Kevin is working on!Drink and ThinkReadyRosie

If You Denton Know Dan Black, now you do. From flying planes to painting murals, Dan’s journey is pure Denton magic. You might not realize it, but you’ve probably seen his work all over our great city. He shares how a spray-paint date night turned into a full-time art career and the stories behind some of Denton’s most recognizable walls. Check out Dan's work!danblack.work@danblack_who

Denton is officially the Halloween Capital of Texas... and it’s not just a title, it’s a movement.In this episode, Brad sits down with Gary Packan (Director of Parks & Recreation) and Dustin Sternbeck (Chief Communications Officer) to share how Denton transformed October into a month-long celebration with 300+ events, local art, and a 10-year plan.Check it out! dentonhalloween.comBe sure to head to the Denton Square to see the cool stuff going on through the entire month of October!

Trader Joe’s? Childcare deserts? Hootie and the Blowfish? We cover it all with Erin Carney, President of the Denton Chamber of Commerce. She explains how the Chamber actually helps businesses beyond ribbon cuttings, why Denton pride is unmatched, and what makes our city one of the best places to build a future. 

In this kickoff episode, Brad takes the mic solo to introduce If You Denton Know. He shares the vision behind the podcast, what listeners can expect each week, and why Denton’s stories, people, and businesses deserve the spotlight.