Let's Talk Local

Congressman Keith Self has spent much of his life serving and defending America, and today, that fight continues in Washington, D.C.In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Congressman Self joins host Sarah Zubiate Bennett for a candid conversation about the threat of radical Islamism, the rise of extremist ideologies, and the challenge of protecting both national security and the First Amendment.They also discuss the growth of mosques across DFW and the controversy surrounding a major mosque expansion in McKinney, raising difficult questions about religious freedom, community concerns, and where the line should be drawn when extremist beliefs threaten American values.How do we protect freedom of religion while confronting genuine extremism? What should local and federal leaders be watching for? And why does Congressman Self believe Americans need to pay closer attention?Join Sarah and Congressman Keith Self as they tackle one of the most complicated and consequential conversations facing North Texas and the country.

Most of us have heard the horrifying stories of human trafficking. But there’s another dark world operating in the shadows that few people ever hear about: animal trafficking.Texas sits along a major trafficking route between the U.S. and Mexico, and innocent animals can become victims of unimaginable cruelty. Animals are exploited, abused, and even used to conceal illegal substances. For some, rescue comes just in time. For others, it never comes at all.Dawn Olivieri is determined to change that.At Moon Mountain Sanctuary and Rescue, Dawn has created 160 acres dedicated to second chances. Nearly 200 horses rescued from kill auctions now call the sanctuary home, along with bison, camels, zebras, donkeys, and other animals that needed someone willing to fight for them.When Dawn isn't feeding horses, caring for rescues, or even fly spraying the bison, she's in front of the camera. Fans know her from Taylor Sheridan's world, with roles in "Yellowstone," "1883," "Lioness," and more. But at Moon Mountain, there are no scripts. This is Dawn's real life and her real mission.Join Sarah Zubiate Bennett as she steps inside Moon Mountain Sanctuary, comes face to face with its incredible animals, hears the heartbreaking stories behind their rescues, and discovers just how far Dawn Olivieri is willing to go to save a life.Some of these animals were running out of time. Now, they're getting a second chance.

DFW continues to attract businesses, families, and visitors from around the world, and it's easy to see why. With a thriving economy, growing opportunities, and strong communities, North Texas has become one of the most dynamic regions in the country.On this episode of Let's Talk Local, Sarah sits down with Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne to discuss the growth of DFW, the future of Texas, and the issues shaping America. Drawing on her experience in Washington, D.C., and years of public service, Van Duyne shares her perspective on what it takes to keep Texas a leader in job creation, economic growth, and innovation.The conversation also highlights one of her signature initiatives, the North Texas Job Fair, one of the largest job fairs in the country, held each year at Globe Life Field. Whether you're looking for your first job, a career change, or your next opportunity, this event has connected thousands of people with employers across the region.Filled with thoughtful insights, optimism, and practical advice, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. And if you're ready for your next career move, be sure to check out the North Texas Job Fair on August 6, 2026.

Ryan Binkley and Abteen Vaziri were opponents in the general election this past March. Today, they’ve found friendship and common ground.Join Sarah Zubiate Bennett for a thoughtful conversation with Ryan and Abteen as they explore many of the issues shaping our lives today. They discuss the role of faith in everyday life, why strong families are essential to thriving communities, and how the FIFA World Cup is putting Dallas Fort Worth on the global stage.The conversation also looks at artificial intelligence, its growing impact on the workforce, and what the future of work could look like in the years ahead.From politics and purpose to technology and the future, this wide-ranging discussion is filled with meaningful insights and respectful dialogue. It’s a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux joins us for a candid conversation about leadership, public safety, and the future of one of America’s fastest-growing cities. With crime trending downward and more officers choosing Dallas while fewer are leaving, Chief Comeaux shares what he believes is driving the department’s success.We discuss how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are transforming modern policing, the challenges and opportunities that come with a growing city, and how Dallas is preparing for the global spotlight as FIFA is in town. Chief Comeaux also shares his message to the thousands of visitors who will be experiencing Dallas for the first time.From crime reduction to downtown revitalization, this wide-ranging conversation offers a closer look at the vision, strategy, and leadership shaping the future of the Dallas Police Department.

We have the culture, the influence, the innovation, and the ambition to make a compelling case. But Dallas is also at a pivotal moment in its history. Major decisions about the future of City Hall, downtown development, and the city’s long-term growth are all on the table.What should happen with Dallas City Hall? What would it mean if the Mavericks leave the American Airlines Center for a new arena at Valley View? And as growth continues to spread across the metroplex, is downtown still the center of Dallas—or is the city evolving into something new?To help unpack these questions, Sarah sits down with friend and city strategist Elizabeth Saab for a thoughtful conversation about the challenges, opportunities, and competing visions shaping Dallas today.The choices made in the coming weeks could impact Dallas for decades to come. Join us as we explore what’s at stake and what the future may hold for one of America’s most dynamic cities.

Do you ever stop and think about how different parenting is today compared to when we were kids? The world is changing fast. Technology has become part of everyday life, phones are constantly competing for our attention, social media can shape a teenager’s self worth, and AI is becoming more present in our lives than most people even realize.For parents, navigating all of this can feel overwhelming. How do you raise confident, kind, thoughtful kids in a world that looks nothing like the one we grew up in?In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah brings together a roundtable of moms, all raising multiple children, to have an honest and entertaining conversation about modern parenting. From technology and tough conversations to values, discipline, and preparing kids for the future, the discussion offers different perspectives on what it means to raise children in today’s world.

In the last episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sam Westrop shared his deep knowledge of Islam and Islamism, breaking down the sects, beliefs, and cultural framework behind the conversation.In this episode, Sarah continues that discussion by sitting down with individuals who have lived under Islamic rule and are now building new lives as Christians in America.Sheri Shamsi fled Iran in 2017 after realizing she could not raise her children under Sharia Law. Abteen Vaziri was born in Iran and lived around the world before eventually settling in Dallas, where he now works as an attorney and is active in politics. Aleksey Yusupov, who was born to a Christian mother, Muslim father, and Jewish grandmother, shares a powerful story of survival that includes witnessing executions for faith and narrowly escaping one himself.These are not secondhand perspectives. These are lived experiences.You heard the facts in the last episode. Now you will hear the stories behind them.

Is the Islamization of Texas really happening, or is it just another headline designed to stir fear and confusion? Is Sharia law already happening in Texas? In this episode, Sarah sits down with Sam Westrop to take a closer look at what is fact and what is fiction. As the head of Islamist Watch at the Middle East Forum since 2017, Sam has spent years researching these issues and uncovering information he believes every Texan should hear. This is one episode of Let’s Talk Local we should all pay attention to. 

A misogyny law might sound like a good idea in theory, but what happens when it comes at the cost of free speech? That is just one of the topics Sarah Zubiate Bennett explores with Ana Campagnolo, State Deputy of Santa Catarina, Brazil. While Brazil is known for its beauty, beaches, and vibrant culture, there is a deeper story unfolding. From the role of faith in everyday life to the rise of conservative thought and voting, the conversation goes far beyond the surface. They also dive into the growing opportunities for investors around the world looking to be part of Santa Catarina’s rapid development.Sarah and Ana cover it all in this episode of Let’s Talk Local.

Where are you in your faith journey? Are you a devoted Christian striving to live fully for God, or someone still searching for what you believe and how to serve?In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah sits down with Matt Bennett, Founder and President of Christian Union, for an honest conversation about faith, deliverance, the power of prayer, and what it means to live a truly spiritual life.Both Sarah and Matt share personal experiences where they’ve witnessed the presence and power of God firsthand. Their stories are candid, thought-provoking, and deeply personal.This is a real, raw, and powerful conversation that may challenge you, encourage you, and perhaps even open your eyes in a new way, no matter where you are in your faith journey.Derek Prince YouTube link: https://youtu.be/m8E1MpNBMFc?si=t1PIhcVkPbsK7T6UShawn Ryan with Chad Ripperger- https://youtu.be/I2p_cfipbEw?si=Skde5eF1pL7kuB8wTucker Carlson with Lee Strobel:https://tuckercarlson.com/tucker-show-lee-strobel?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23608846004&gbraid=0AAAAAqhFXDPlMbT-2q-SaIH5-B4UdfDOF&gclid=Cj0KCQjw37nNBhDkARIsAEBGI8ObzS5NvwxptIvkyyzlzebtudPWvLJPMpQBm9iFYiRJh6LkCMjMB-8aAmMiEALw_wcBMatt's Website: https://christianunion.org/

Do political conversations in your life get heated fast? Have you seen the name calling and the us versus them mentality coming from both sides? Division feels loud right now, but it does not have to define how we engage.In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, we show that it is still possible to disagree without being disagreeable. This is a candid conversation between people who see the world differently and are still willing to sit at the same table.We dive into some of the biggest topics dominating headlines and dinner tables right now including immigration, ICE enforcement methods, H1B visas, the Trump administration, and more. Joining the discussion are Chris Putnam, CEO of Dallas Express, Kellen McGovern Jones, Senior Investigative Reporter at DX, and Shanon Murphy, producer of the show.It is thoughtful. It is honest. At times it is intense. But above all, it is respectful.If you are tired of the noise but still care deeply about the issues shaping our country, this episode will challenge you, encourage you, and maybe even inspire you to lead better conversations in your own circle. Tune in and join us.

Election Day is March 3, and that means it’s time to get informed and get to the polls. With so many names on the ballot, it can be hard to keep track of who’s running for what and why it matters.On this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah sits down with two candidates running for Senate, Ken Paxton and Wesley Hunt, to talk through the issues shaping this election and what’s at stake for Texans. (Sen. John Cornyn was invited to join the conversation but did not respond to our request.)Sarah asks the questions voters care about most: their priorities if elected, why this moment matters, and how decisions made now will impact Texas at the federal level. From concerns about national debt to broader questions about culture, security, and the future direction of the country, nothing is off the table.Every election matters, but this one will help determine who speaks for Texans on the national stage. Get informed, hear directly from the candidates, and then make your voice heard on March 3.

Sometimes we expect people in certain professions to fit a specific mold… and sometimes, someone comes along and completely shatters it.On this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah is joined by Dr. Sasha Ortiz, a leading clinical psychologist in DFW whose work spans early autism detection, supporting veterans and first responders, and exploring modern, alternative treatments for depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges.Dr. Ortiz also shares thoughtful insight on kids and teens navigating social media, a conversation many parents and caregivers are having daily.And yes… she also just handed over her crown as Ms. World International.Sasha is truly one of a kind. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of mental health and healing, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

We all face seasons that test our strength and our faith. In the first episode of 2026, Sarah sits down with author, speaker, mother, and church leader Landra Hughes to share how faith carried her through life’s hardest moments. Her story is honest, inspiring, and the perfect way to begin a new year with renewed hope.

2025 was a year full of meaningful conversations on Let’s Talk Local. From sports and elections to faith and the issues shaping our community, we covered a wide range of topics that sparked thought, dialogue, and perspective. In this episode, we’ve gone back through the data to highlight some of the biggest moments of the year, giving you a chance to catch up on what you may have missed and to revisit conversations from earlier in 2025 that might look a little different today. Happy New Year and we can’t wait for 2026!

Life is full of twists and turns, and sometimes the only way forward is by leaning on something greater than ourselves. In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah sits down with her son, Louis, to talk about Future Voices, the weekly column he founded and publishes every Sunday in The Dallas Express.Louis writes candidly about what’s on his mind and how his faith helps him face life head-on. The conversation also introduces the column’s very first contributor, Cooper Kimosh. At just 14 years old, Cooper shares how prayer guides him through uncertainty and why faith plays such an important role in his life.Together, they offer a powerful look at life, faith, and perspective through the eyes of the next generation.

Child advocate Jenna Quinn turned her childhood trauma into a nationwide mission to protect kids and educate the adults who care for them. What began with Jenna’s Law in Texas has now become federal law, transforming how America approaches child safety. She’s also created a path to healing for survivors through her ongoing advocacy and support work. Jenna is a true hero, and we’re honored to share her story on this episode of Let’s Talk Local.

Who says Thanksgiving has to mean turkey and dressing? This week, we’re shaking things up with a full-blown Texas-style feast. Think truffle mac and cheese, sweet corn pudding, bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapeños, and Dr Pepper ribs so tender they barely hang onto the bone.And these ribs? They’re not just some recipe pulled off the internet. Award-winning cookoff champion Travis Bennett, yes, Sarah’s cousin-in-law, rolled up with his custom grill-on-a-trailer and shared some of his grill-master secrets for getting ribs just right.If you love food as much as we do, you’re not going to want to miss this episode. This just might be the start to your new Thanksgiving tradition!

Think DART Doesn’t Affect You? Think Again. And it could get worse.Even if you’ve never stepped foot on a DART train or bus, you’re still paying for it—every time you shop in Dallas. A portion of your sales tax goes straight to DART’s budget. But despite all that funding, the agency is buried in billions of dollars of debt.So what went wrong? In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, we dig into the mismanagement that’s led to rising fares, service cuts, executive bonuses, possible corruption, and even a 44% jump in crime on the system. And with cities now considering pulling out of DART altogether—what happens to your money if they do? We discuss with Dallas Express reporter Logan Washburn and Texas House Representative Mitch Little. 

Josh Hickman has been creating art since he was a kid and, trust us, you can tell. He’s not just an artist, but also an author with a gift for storytelling. His latest book, Forgetting, shares the deeply personal journey of caring for his mother as she faced dementia.Josh joined Sarah in the studio to talk about his writing, and then welcomed us into his home for an up-close tour of his art collection. It’s emotional, honest, and unforgettable.

Dallas has style and Bob Baumann is proof. At the House of Baumann, he’s crafting custom pieces that fit like they were made just for you (because they are). From suits and sport coats to boots and shoes, Bob brings fashion to the heart of Texas.Join us for a walk through Bob’s spectacular showroom, where everything’s for sale—well, almost everything (the Corvette and Harley are off-limits). Bob’s style is unmatched, and once you meet him, you’ll see why we’re such big fans.

This episode is deeply personal.Sarah opens up about an experience from her teenage years — a time when she faced pregnancy from horrific circumstances and then made the difficult decision to terminate. Now, years later, she reflects on that moment and what it has taught her about life, faith, and grace in a heartfelt conversation with Roland Warren, President & CEO of Care Net.If you’ve ever faced a hard decision and found yourself looking back with questions, this episode is for you. It’s an honest, compassionate conversation about choices, healing, and hope — shared without judgment and with an open heart.

Texas tunes, fried food, and a whole lot of fun!Wade Bowen, Texas Country legend, family man, and Lone Star hero, joins Sarah on Let’s Talk Local! He’s raised millions for families in Central Texas, played thousands of shows, and now he’s sharing stories from the road (and the heart) before taking the stage at the State Fair of Texas.Then Sarah hits the fairgrounds with the toughest critics around — her kids! From deep friend brownies to Wagyu Bacon Cheeseburger Deviled Egg Sliders, these kid foodies don’t hold back.Come for the music, stay for the laughs, and find out which fair foods are Big Tex hits (and which are total Big Tex misses).Watch the full episode, drop your favorite fair food in the comments, and share it with a fellow Texan who loves Wade Bowen or the State Fair! 

Wall Street may have the spotlight, but it’s time to make room for Y’all Street! The Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE) just received federal approval from the SEC, a major milestone that sets the stage for Dallas to become a true powerhouse in the world of finance.In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, we take you inside a Metroplex Civic and Business Association (MCBA) luncheon featuring a fascinating Q&A with Nicole Chambers, Global Managing Director of TXSE. With her background at NASDAQ, Nicole brings deep industry insight and contagious confidence about what’s ahead for Texas finance.Sarah also sits down with Onyinye Akujuo, President and CEO of MCBA Dallas, to talk about the organization’s incredible growth and impact over the past several months.This episode is packed with knowledge, optimism, and insider perspectives you won’t want to miss!

Tim Young may be known for running his mouth, but this conversation shows a whole new side of him. In this episode, Sarah sits down with the bold and hilarious man who’s captured the hearts of millions on social media. Tim gets real about the issues, shares stories you won’t hear anywhere else, and even lets us in on a few of his favorite (and least favorite!) things.He’s all about the Grapevine VFW, traveling, cigars, and Wilhoite’s — but don’t ask him about cruises, his ex-fiancé, or buying land overseas. This one is equal parts fun, honest, and thought-provoking… so grab your headphones and tune in for the full scoop!

Every child deserves access to a world-class education — but for far too many in Dallas, that dream still feels out of reach. Roughly 144,000 economically disadvantaged students live within DISD boundaries, and 40% of children living in poverty aren’t prepared to start school. These aren’t just statistics — they’re the future of our city.That’s why the Dallas Education Collective exists: to bring the community together and change this story once and for all.In this episode, you’ll meet Nakia Douglas, a DISD graduate and the Executive Director of DEC, who has dedicated his life to improving education for Dallas kids. You’ll also get a front-row seat to a powerful DEC community event, where education leaders tackle the toughest questions facing parents, teachers, and students today — from access and equity to preparing kids for a future we can’t yet imagine.If you care about Dallas, its kids, and its future, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss. The path to tomorrow starts now — join us and be part of the movement.

Alex Stein has built a reputation as a social media firebrand—whether it’s freestyle rapping at city council meetings or stirring up headlines in Austin, he knows how to grab attention and spark conversation. Monty Bennett, meanwhile, co-founded The Dallas Express with Sarah to cover the stories others weren’t telling, while also leading efforts to make Dallas stronger and better.In this episode, Alex and Monty join forces for a wide-ranging conversation that spans everything from the cultural impact of the Dallas Cowboys to faith, community, and the future of our city. This is one you won’t want to miss.

Pain is something we all face—but how we respond to it is what shapes our story.In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah sits down with two incredible women who turned their hardest seasons into a powerful purpose.Julia Hoffman walked through the challenges of divorce and, out of her own healing, founded Hoffman Collaborative Therapy to guide families through similar struggles.Our producer, Shanon, faced the unimaginable loss of her nephew, Ethan, to drowning. Determined to honor his memory, she became a certified ISR Instructor to help protect other families from the same heartbreak.Their stories are proof that even when life feels unbearable, resilience and hope are possible. We hope their journeys inspire you to discover your own light at the end of the tunnel.

What impact are the clothes in your closet having on the world we share?The fast fashion conversation starts with unethical labor—but it goes much deeper. Could your laundry be killing marine life? Could the shirt you’re wearing be harming the baby growing inside you? Could its very fabric be the reason people smell you from several feet away?Then we’re taking it a step further. Sarah’s future fashion designer nephew, Gavin Bueno, and Certified Personal Organizer/Personal Assistant, Ricki Casper, are teaming up to tackle her closet. They’re going through everything—deciding what gets recycled, upcycled, donated, sold, or kept. It’s not easy, but it’s necessary. And we hope it inspires you to take the same step in your own life.It’s all connected, and it’s a conversation we need to have. So… let’s have it.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah is joined by author and pastor of St. Rita Catholic Community, Father Joshua Whitfield, for a thoughtful conversation about family life in today’s fast-paced world. Together, they explore the challenges of raising kids in a culture of constant motion—from overscheduled calendars and the pressures of social media to the impact of fast fashion and perfectionism.This isn’t a conversation about religion—it’s about values. It’s about the importance of slowing down, reconnecting with nature, rediscovering play, and reclaiming rest in a world that rarely pauses. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply feeling stretched thin, this episode offers a timely and meaningful reminder of what truly matters.

Mital Patel is reshaping Dallas hospitality while protecting Africa’s wildlife. As an award-winning photographer, he transforms stunning images of endangered animals into critical funding for conservation efforts. His journey blends business, family, and a passion for preservation—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we’re tackling one of the most urgent issues facing Texas families: school choice. Our guest is Corey DeAngelis—author, national speaker, and one of the country’s leading voices in the fight for educational freedom. Corey has tracked the rise of universal school choice across the U.S. and has seen firsthand how it transforms lives. If you’re a parent of a K-12 student in Texas, this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss.

Who killed JFK—and why won’t this 61-year-old question go away?The answer is simple: because the headlines we see today can be traced back to that moment in Dealey Plaza.In this eye-opening episode of Let’s Talk Local, we unpack the lasting impact of JFK’s assassination with two experts—Dory Wiley and Dennis McCuistion. From well-known theories to those you’ve possibly never heard, they walk us through the evidence and the ripple effects that still shape our world today. Tune in and see history…and the present…in a whole new light.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, we’re taking you on a whirlwind journey—from bargain hunting at the legendary Canton First Monday Trade Days to rubbing elbows with fashion royalty in the Big Apple.Sarah kicks things off in East Texas, exploring the quirky charm, unbeatable deals, and mouthwatering eats that make Trade Days a monthly must-see. Then it’s wheels up to New York City, where she and her 12-year-old daughter Liliana get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the world of Tory Burch—yes, the Tory Burch.But that’s not all. From the iconic steps of The Met to the spiraling halls of the Guggenheim, this mother-daughter adventure blends small-town treasures with high fashion and high culture in the most unforgettable way.You won’t want to miss this episode—it’s Texas grit meets Manhattan glam, and everything in between.

She’s a Dallas  sweetheart with NFL sideline swagger—and she’s just getting started.Jane Slater has built a career at the NFL Network that most sports journalists only dream of, thanks to her unmatched grit, hustle, and heart. But there’s so much more to Jane than breaking stories and game-day glam.In this episode, Jane opens up like never before—about finding true love, dialing in on her health, and learning to thrive both on and off the field. She’s raw, real, and refreshingly unfiltered.If you already love Jane, get ready to love her even more. And if you don’t know her yet… you’re about to meet your new favorite powerhouse.

Staying ahead of your health doesn’t have to be hard—or expensive.In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah Zubiate Bennett sits down with Dr. Manik Aggarwal and Matt Lindenmeyer—two experts in proactive medicine who have personally impacted her life. They break down how you can take control of your health without the overwhelm of time, cost, or insurance red tape.If you’ve ever felt stuck in a reactive cycle with your health, this conversation will change how you think—and act—going forward. Medicine is evolving fast. Don’t get left behind.

Cabo is Coming to Dallas – and We’re Here for It!Cabo San Lucas may be just a passport stamp and a quick three-hour flight from DFW, but why hop on a plane when you can get the Cabo experience right here in the heart of Dallas? 🌴La Lupita, a beloved Cabo staple known for its epic vibes and unforgettable flavors, is about to open its doors in the Design District—and trust us, this isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a vibe. We’re talking 30-foot ceilings that transport you outdoors, music that never stops, mezcal so smooth it might convince you you’re beachside, and food that’ll have you booking your next visit before you’ve even finished dessert.Tune in to this episode of Let’s Talk Local as we dish on how this iconic Mexican destination is bringing bold, authentic flavor—and serious Cabo energy—to Dallas. ¡Salud! 🌮🍹🎶

From Global Design Icon to Supermom: Meet Kellie Sirna.She’s transforming spaces around the world — from luxury hotels to jaw-dropping venues with actual hunting simulators — and now she’s bringing her brilliance to Let’s Talk Local. Kellie Sirna is more than a powerhouse designer; she’s also a fearless entrepreneur and single mom of two, balancing creativity, business, and motherhood with style and grit.In this episode, Kellie shares exclusive details on her bold new projects (including her own product line 👀), how she built a globally recognized brand from the ground up, and the real story behind juggling it all. Whether you’re into design, business, or just love a story that inspires, this one’s a must-listen.Bold vision. Big dreams. Beautiful spaces. Don’t miss this one!

In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, Sarah brings in her top style consultants—her 12-year old twins, Liliana and Louis—for some fashion-forward fun with a color analysis app! Because let’s be honest… if you can’t trust your kids to help pick your wardrobe, who can you trust? With AI calling the shots and plenty of giggles along the way, they tackle spring and summer style decisions right from home. Tune in for laughs, techy twists, and a behind-the-scenes look into Sarah’s everyday life!

 In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, we dive into the issues that matter most to you—so you can head to the polls feeling informed and confident.Tune in to our forum with several city council candidates, where we asked the questions that matter most to your daily life—topics like public safety, homelessness, and the rapid growth of the DFW area.We believe that informed voters are empowered voters. So, we invite you to take a few minutes to get to know where the candidates stand. No matter who you support, your voice matters—make it count on election day.

Join Sarah Zubiate Bennett as she brings her passion for interior design to life in this stunning new episode. Sarah sits down with some seasoned pros at Texas Counter Fitters, home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural stone slabs around. Together, they explore the latest innovations in design — from textures and tones to tech-forward trends reshaping the way we live and decorate. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply love a beautifully curated space, this episode offers fresh inspiration straight from the experts. Don’t miss this insider look into the artistry and craft behind modern interiors!

Local elections are right around the corner, and Let’s Talk Local is your go-to source for getting to know the people aiming to shape the future of Dallas. In this episode, we sit down with Bill Roth, a candidate for Dallas City Council District 11. Known for his no-nonsense approach and clear focus, Bill shares his vision for making Dallas a more vibrant, effective, and community-centered city. He’s the first of several candidates we’ll be spotlighting in the coming days—so be sure to follow along as we bring you closer to the voices behind the ballot.

Meet John Sims, candidate for Dallas City Council District 3! He’s passionate about making sure every voice in our city is heard—no matter your background. In this episode, we chat with John about what inspired him to run, the issues that drive him, and how he plans to create real change if elected.Remember, your vote is your voice—so let’s make it count this election season!

Elizabeth Matus isn’t running for City Council in District 5 because she’s looking for something to do—her resume is already full! She’s stepping up because she believes Pleasant Grove deserves more, and she’s ready to help make that happen. A lifelong resident, Elizabeth’s connection to the community runs deep, and her passion for making it better is what’s driving her campaign. Her story is one we think a lot of people will relate to, and we’re excited to share it as part of our Behind the Ballot series. Stay tuned to learn more!

Early voting kicks off soon—are you ready to make your voice heard in the local elections? Local government plays a big role in shaping our everyday lives, and your vote truly matters. In this episode, we’re helping you get to know one of the new voices hoping to represent our community. Meet Ernest Banda, a District 9 city council candidate who describes himself as a “common sense” thinker ready to bring practical solutions to City Hall. Tune in to hear his story, his vision, and why he believes now is the time to step up. Ernest says that he’s ready to speak up for the district—are you ready to speak up with your vote?

Are you ready for early voting or election day? Every vote plays a critical role in shaping the future of Dallas—and the time to get informed is now. In this episode of Behind the Ballot, we introduce you to Machelle Wells, candidate for Dallas City Council District 6. With a deep commitment to service and a passion for community, Machelle shares her vision for bringing authentic, people-first leadership to City Hall. Her journey is just one of many we’ll highlight in the lead-up to the election, so stay tuned as we continue to spotlight the voices working to move Dallas forward.

At Let’s Talk Local, we’re working hard to connect you with the people who want to represent you—especially with the upcoming City Council election on May 3. We know how important it is to feel informed and confident when you vote, and that’s why we’re excited to introduce you to one of the candidates for District 7: Jose Rivas.Jose has already served our country in the military, and now he’s hoping to bring that same dedication to his local community by serving on the City Council. Stay tuned—we’ve got more to share about him and other candidates soon!

Hey Dallas! 🎙️ Let’s Talk Local is going weekly, and we’re turning up the volume on everything that makes our city shine—big stories, hidden gems, and all the local flavor.First up: we’re diving into the vintage vibes at Dolly Python and Vintage Martini—two spots so cool, don’t be surprised if you bump into Gigi Hadid or Leon Bridges.But it’s not just about looking good—fashion is big biz here. Women’s clothing stores in Dallas are expected to rake in $7.3 billion by the end of 2025! Plus, shopping secondhand helps fight the 92 million tons of clothing waste hitting landfills each year.So yeah, style with a purpose? We’re all about it. Tune in to Let’s Talk Local for all things cool, creative, and community-driven—right here in the heart of Dallas. 💃🛍️

Dallas City Council member Chad West is back on the campaign trail and joining Let’s Talk Local to tackle the biggest issues facing District 1. From housing density and parking reform to the Texas Ethics Commission’s investigation into his campaign spending—no topic is off-limits, no matter how difficult the conversation. After the interview, we hit the streets of Oak Cliff to visit some of Chad’s favorite neighborhood spots. Buckle up—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!