Once A Cardinal The Podcast

Lisa Campos, Harlingen High School Class of 1990, turned her love for her hometown into Explore Harlingen, a social media community followed by more than 42,000 people.In this episode, Lisa shares why she returned to Harlingen after building a 20-year career in Austin, Houston, and Dallas, and how becoming a mother to her daughter, Lola, helped bring her home. She also reveals the story behind Explore Harlingen and how she balances being a full-time corporate professional, a devoted mom, and the voice behind one of the city’s most influential platforms.Some call her “the KRGV of Facebook.” Others call her “the TMZ of Harlingen.” Lisa simply calls herself “the accidental influencer.”Join us for a heartfelt conversation about family, community, and celebrating the people and places that make Harlingen special.Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal!

A true Cardinal legend joins us!Gloria Campos, Harlingen High School Class of 1972, shares her journey from the Rio Grande Valley and KGBT to an incredible 40-year career in Dallas television news.This three-time Hall of Fame journalist reflects on her Cardinal roots, life behind the anchor desk, and some of the remarkable people she has interviewed along the way.You won’t want to miss this conversation!Listen to the newest episode of Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal!#GloriaCampos #OnceACardinal #HarlingenHighSchool #RGV #TexasJournalism

From drum major at Harlingen High School to serving his country in the United States Army, Florencio “Lench” Garcia, HHS Class of 1984, has taken one heck of a journey.He’s been a preacher, a financial consultant, a businessman, and what he considers one of his greatest roles, a builder of people.Now, as a grandfather, Lench looks back on the twists, turns, successes, failures, and lessons that have shaped his life. His goal today is simple: live life with zero regrets.In this episode of Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal, Lench opens up about the journey, the people who influenced him, the unexpected turns along the way, and what he has learned about making the most of the life we've been given.

From the Rio Grande Valley to leading one of Texas' premier high school band programs, 2002 graduate Amanda Stevenson's journey is one of passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers.In this episode of Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal, we sit down with Harlingen High School alumna Amanda Stevenson, who currently serves as the Director of Bands at Wakeland High School in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.Amanda's career has taken her from the Valley to some of the most respected music programs in Texas. She has led award-winning concert, marching, and jazz ensembles, served in leadership roles at Churchill, Taft, and Georgetown High Schools, and worked with some of the nation's top Drum Corps International organizations.She has also broken new ground as a female band director in a traditionally male-dominated field.But this conversation isn't just about awards, performances, or accomplishments. It's about the girl who grew up in Harlingen, the teachers and mentors who helped shape her, the challenges she encountered along the way, and the passion for music that has allowed her to influence thousands of young musicians.What did Amanda dream about when she was a Cardinal? Who helped shape her path? And what lessons from Harlingen High School have stayed with her throughout her career?Join us for another great Cardinal story on Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal.🎙️ Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us keep telling the stories of the men and women who started their journeys at Harlingen High School.#OnceACardinalAlwaysACardinal #HarlingenHigh #HarlingenCardinals #CardinalPride #WakelandHighSchool #BandDirector #MusicEducation #DrumCorps #RioGrandeValley #956

What does it mean to build a life rooted in hard work, service, and staying true to where you came from?In this episode of Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal, we sit down with Harlingen High School alumnus Randy Bermea to talk about the journey that began in the Rio Grande Valley and the experiences that shaped the man he is today.Randy reflects on his years at Harlingen High, the friendships and mentors who influenced him, the lessons learned through life's challenges, and the values that have guided him throughout his personal and professional journey. Along the way, he shares stories that are heartfelt, humorous, and unmistakably rooted in Cardinal pride.Like every episode of Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal, this conversation isn't just about accomplishments. It's about the people, moments, and decisions that shape a life after graduation, and the lasting impact of growing up in the 956.If you're a fellow Cardinal, a Valley native, or simply enjoy hearing authentic stories of perseverance and purpose, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us preserve the stories of Harlingen High School alumni for generations to come.#OnceACardinalAlwaysACar

In this episode of Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal, we sit down with Harlingen High School alumna Debbie Cestero D'Souza, whose remarkable life has taken her from Caracas, Venezuela, to the Rio Grande Valley, and ultimately onto the national stage.Debbie shares what it was like growing up in Venezuela before the country's dramatic political and economic transformation, how those experiences shaped her worldview, and why she has dedicated much of her life to civic engagement and educating others about her perspective on America's future. Drawing from her Mexican-American heritage on her mother's side and her Venezuelan roots on her father's, Debbie offers a unique personal story that spans cultures, countries, and decades.Beyond politics, Debbie's lifelong passion for music has led to an extraordinary career. From singing on Venezuelan television as a young child to performing throughout the Rio Grande Valley, recording music, leading worship, and contributing vocals to several of Dinesh D'Souza's documentary films, her journey has been anything but ordinary. She also discusses her work behind the scenes as a producer and co-writer on documentary films and as producer of The Dinesh D'Souza Podcast.Whether you know Debbie from Harlingen High, her music, or her public work, this conversation is a fascinating look at a fellow Cardinal whose life has crossed cultures, careers, and history.Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal is the podcast where Harlingen High School alumni share the real stories of life after HHS, the challenges they faced, the victories they earned, and the lessons they learned along the way.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share with fellow Cardinals and anyone who loves inspiring life stories.#OnceACardinalAlwaysACardinal #HarlingenHigh #HarlingenCardinals #RioGrandeValley #DebbieCesteroDSouza #Podcast #SouthTexas #CardinalPride

From working behind the scenes as a producer to becoming one of the Rio Grande Valley's most recognizable morning news anchors, Trey Cerna's career is a story of hard work, perseverance, and staying true to his roots.A proud member of Harlingen High School's Class of 2002, Trey began his broadcasting career, first as a producer, then as a reporter, before earning a spot as the station's morning news anchor. His journey eventually led him to Houston, where he continued his career as a morning anchor on one of the nation's largest television markets.Today, Trey serves as the lead storyteller for the Houston Independent School District, the largest school district in Texas. In that role, he shines a light on the educators, staff, students, and families who make a difference every day, telling the human stories behind public education and the people who care for the next generation.In this episode of Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal, Trey reflects on his journey from Harlingen High School to the newsroom and beyond. He shares the lessons he's learned, the mentors who shaped him, and why the values he developed at HHS continue to guide him today.Whether you're a fellow Cardinal, an aspiring journalist, or simply someone who enjoys hearing stories of purpose and perseverance, you'll enjoy this inspiring conversation.If you enjoy the episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with another Cardinal. Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal.

From Bonita Park to Texas A&I, a Cardinal's JourneyIn this episode of Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal, we sit down with Harlingen High legend John "Johnny White Shoes" Grant, one of the Valley's most memorable football standouts.John takes us back to his childhood growing up in the Bonita Park Projects, where family, friendships, and faith helped shape the man he would become. He reflects on the rich athletic tradition that runs through his family and the lessons learned on the fields of Harlingen High before taking his talents to Texas A&I University in Kingsville, where he shared the field with future Pro Football Hall of Famer Darrell Green.But this conversation is about far more than football.John shares how his years at A&I challenged him to think differently, embrace responsibility, and become a devoted father. Today, his greatest role isn't wearing shoulder pads, it's honoring his family by caring for his aging mother and living out the values instilled in him from the very beginning.This is a story about perseverance, humility, family, and what it truly means to be a Cardinal for life.If you enjoy stories of Harlingen High history, Texas football, and inspiring life journeys, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow Cardinals.

For decades, the name Allan Brumley has been synonymous with excellence, leadership, and music education in Harlingen.In this episode of Once A Cardinal, Always A Cardinal, Allan takes us on a remarkable journey from his beginnings in San Antonio to leading the legendary Big Red Cardinal Band to national prominence. Under his direction, Harlingen High School earned top honors across Texas and the nation, culminating in recognition as one of the Top Ten Marching Bands in the United States and an invitation to march in the 1981 Tournament of Roses Parade.But at the height of that success, Allan made a decision that left many in the community wondering why. After only six years at Harlingen High School, he stepped away from education and embarked on an entirely new career in business. What prompted such a dramatic move? Looking back, would he do it again? Allan shares the story behind the decision and the lessons he learned about purpose, growth, and following a different calling.We also explore his continued impact on the community through public service, his advocacy for the arts, and his role in helping bring the Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center from vision to reality.This is a conversation about legacy, leadership, difficult choices, and the lasting influence one person can have on generations of Cardinals.

Once A Cardinal | Episode ft. Mike HaynesFrom the hardwood to heartbreak and back to inspiring greatness.Mike Haynes was once a shining star on the high school basketball court, a talent so bright it carried him all the way to the University of Texas. But life had a detour in store that no one could have predicted.In a senseless act of road rage, Mike was shot, a moment that would change his life forever. For many, that would have been the end of the story. For Mike, it was just the beginning of a new chapter.Rather than surrendering to his circumstances, Mike chose to rise. He earned his degree in Kinesiology, channeled his pain into purpose, and went on to found Camp for All, a safe haven where children with disabilities can come together, have fun, and discover that life has no limits, even from a wheelchair.In this episode, we sit down with Mike to talk about resilience, reinvention, and what it truly means to live life to the fullest. His story will challenge you, move you, and remind you that your greatest chapter may still be ahead.🎙️ Once A Cardinal — Stories of Grit, Grace, and Going Forward.

Not every coach's legacy is measured by championships.In this episode of Once A Cardinal, we sit down with Gus Cavazos, a man whose influence on generations of Rio Grande Valley students extends far beyond the football field.Although Gus never played varsity football and didn't take the traditional path into coaching, he built a long and successful career mentoring young athletes throughout the Valley. Choosing to stay in the community he loved, Gus and his wife dedicated their lives to investing in others, raising a family, building relationships, and helping young people reach their potential.Throughout his coaching career, Gus became much more than a coach. He became a mentor, role model, and trusted source of guidance for countless students. Many of the young men he coached went on to become coaches, educators, and leaders themselves, and to this day still reach out to him for advice on life, family, and career decisions.Now retired from the classroom and sidelines, Gus continues to do what he's always done: pour into the lives of others.Join us as we discuss his journey, the lessons learned along the way, the impact of mentorship, and the lasting relationships that define a life well lived.

In this episode of Once a Cardinal Podcast, we sit down with Harlingen High Class of ’84 standout athlete Oralia to talk about her journey from Harlingen to the beauty industry and beyond.From her days growing up in Harlingen and competing as a Cardinal athlete, to studying at the Art Institute of Houston and pursuing her dreams in Los Angeles, Oralia shares the experiences, friendships, and life lessons that shaped her path.This conversation is filled with memories of Harlingen High, stories about chasing ambition, staying connected to your roots, and the lifelong bonds that make the Cardinal community special.Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal.

From Friday night lights to life-changing redemption, this episode dives deep into the remarkable story of Freddy Paredes, the original #15 quarterback for Cardinal football. Freddy opens up about growing up in Harlingen, the neighborhood football games that shaped him, and the mentors, teachers, and teammates who helped define his journey both on and off the field.He shares unforgettable memories from his high school football career, including the game that earned him the starting quarterback position and the friendships that formed the legendary “Mod Squad.” Beyond the highlights and athletic success, Freddy speaks candidly about the struggles that followed, missed opportunities, addiction, and the hard lessons that came with losing focus and direction.In one of the most powerful moments of the conversation, Freddy recounts the life-altering experience that led him to overcome drugs and rebuild his life through faith, family, and personal accountability. Now a successful salesman, father, and grandfather, he reflects on redemption, purpose, and the importance of appreciating every moment life gives us.This is a raw, honest, and inspiring conversation about talent, regret, resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of South Texas football culture.

In this episode of Once A Cardinal, we sit down with Ron Sauceda, a proud product of the Bonita Park neighborhood whose story is rooted in music, community, and family. From his early days playing in the Coakley Junior High band to marching with the dancing tubas at Harlingen High School, Ron shares how those formative experiences shaped his character and lifelong friendships.Ron reflects on the transition to Austin during his junior year, graduating from Lanier High School in the Class of ’81, and the journey that followed, becoming a successful business owner, a devoted father of three, and a proud grandfather of five.At the heart of it all, Ron credits the culture of Harlingen, the relationships, the rhythm of community, and the deep sense of belonging, for instilling in him a lasting love for family and friends.This episode is a tribute to the power of where you come from, and how those roots continue to shape the legacy you build.

Angel Paxton’s story is rooted in community, shaped by lifelong friendships, and driven by a purpose that has touched generations. Born in Corpus Christi and called to Harlingen from an early age, she found her home in the Cardinal community, a place that would define her journey both personally and professionally.From her days at Harlingen High School, where she poured herself into student life through leadership, spirit, and academics, Angel discovered a passion for learning and mentorship. That passion grew into a 25-year career in education, where she inspired students as a teacher, counselor, professor, and leader. Her journey came full circle when she returned to her alma mater as Director of the Harlingen Cardettes, continuing to shape young lives with the same spirit that once guided her.Earning a doctorate in Educational Leadership and dedicating her life to service, Angel’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. Her message remains at the heart of everything she does: Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal.Now, she’s carrying that spirit beyond Harlingen, sharing her story, her voice, and her passion with the world.

In this episode of the Once A Cardinal Podcast, we sit down with Dean McCarty to talk about a journey that started in a school band hall and led all the way to the Grammy stage.Dean shares how his early love for music and the influence of great teachers helped shape his path to becoming a Grammy-winning horn player, performing with some of the best musicians in the industry. Along the way, he learned lessons about discipline, creativity, and the power of music to change lives.Today, Dean has come full circle. As a band director in East Texas, he now pours that same passion and knowledge into the next generation of musicians—teaching not just music, but confidence, dedication, and the joy of the craft.This episode is about the power of mentorship, the impact of music education, and how the lessons learned in a band hall can echo for a lifetime.

From the halls of Ben Milam Elementary to the rank of Master Chief in the United States Navy, Gabriel Cantu’s story is one of transformation, discipline, and enduring love.In this episode of Once A Cardinal the Podcast, Gabriel shares how a troubled youth and a series of poor choices led to a life-changing paradigm shift. Grounded by the steady support of his junior high school sweetheart — the same woman he would later marry — he chose growth over chaos and purpose over distraction.This episode is about leadership, commitment, redemption, and the power of deciding to become better. It’s proof that your early mistakes don’t define your future — your decisions do.Once a Cardinal… always a Cardinal.

Buckle up, put your seat and tray tables in the upright position, and enjoy an hour-long conversation with A.J. Mancabelli as he shares stories, memories, and what it truly means to be Once a Cardinal.From the high school drumline to stages around the world, A.J.’s journey is anything but ordinary. Once the wild child of the band hall, he grew into a full-blown road warrior and seeing the world from the stage touring with his band ThunderRosa and earning his stripes as a hired gun on drums and guitar wherever the music called.The road brought highs and lows, chaos and clarity. Today, A.J. channels that same intensity into helping others as an MHPS at a rehab center in the Austin area, proof that you can live life loud and still lead with heart.

This journey starts at Harlingen High School in the Rio Grande Valley — in the beautiful town of Harlingen, Texas — a place that helped shape the foundation of Pastor Carl Flowers’ life. From there, Carl went on to play college baseball, carrying the discipline, teamwork, and lessons from the field into every season that followed.Today, Carl serves as a pastor in Edinburg, Texas, where his heart for faith, leadership, and community continues to make a lasting impact. He also played a key role on the committee that helped establish the Harlingen High School Ring of Honor, giving back to the school and hometown that helped shape his journey.In this episode, Carl shares powerful reflections on legacy, service, faith, and what it truly means to stay connected to your roots — no matter where life takes you.

Today we sit down with someone truly special, Dr. Nikkie Saldivar Hodgson, a proud product of Harlingen, Texas and Harlingen High School class of 83. With more than 30 years of experience, Nikkie has dedicated her life to helping people communicate better, think deeper, and build more meaningful connections.She’s a professor, researcher, consultant, and children’s book author, but was was known to us as the staple mascot, the Harlingen Cardinal. From family dynamics and leadership to the everyday ways we listen, speak, and show up with each other, her work is deeply shaped by the values and experiences rooted in her hometown.So grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and enjoy this thoughtful and engaging conversation with Dr. Nikkie Saldivar Hodgson, Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal.