Saddle Up Podcast

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Abraham Garcia, former UTPA Men’s Baseball player, for a conversation that goes far beyond the diamond.Abraham takes us back to his freshman season and one of the moments that has stayed with him ever since, hitting a home run against the University of Texas in Austin. For a young college baseball player stepping onto one of the biggest stages in the state, it was the kind of moment athletes dream about and a memory that still carries weight years later.But this episode is about much more than baseball.Abraham opens up about losing his father at a young age and how that loss helped shape the direction of his life. He discusses the important role his older brother, Bert Garcia, played in stepping up, providing guidance, and helping mold Abraham into the man he is today.The conversation explores brotherhood, family, resilience, and the people who step into our lives when we need them most. Abraham reflects on how the lessons he learned through adversity carried over into baseball, adulthood, and the way he approaches life today.We also revisit his time at UTPA, the teammates and experiences that made those years special, and what it meant to represent the Broncs while competing at the Division I level.It is an episode about a memorable home run, but more importantly, it is a story about family, perseverance, gratitude, and becoming the person others helped you believe you could be.------Follow G IG / @gghoops Follow Matt IG / @ptwist610 Welcome to **The Saddle Up Podcast**, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride all meet at the same table.Hosted by **G Garza and Matt Palmquist**, Saddle Up brings you conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to **UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley**. Every episode is built around honest conversation, good laughs, untold stories, and the people who continue to shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Whether you are a UTPA alum, UTB alum, UTRGV supporter, Vaquero fan, RGV native, sports fan, or someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.Subscribe to **The Saddle Up Podcast** for more conversations with the people who represent the Rio Grande Valley with pride.**Find Saddle Up Podcast on:**YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Victoria Cantu, one of the Rio Grande Valley’s rising media personalities and a familiar face both on television and on the pageant stage.Victoria recently joined ValleyCentral, CBS 4 and NBC 23, as a weekend news anchor, bringing her career back home to the Rio Grande Valley. An Edinburg native and UTRGV graduate, she has built experience across news, weather, traffic, and live television while continuing to expand her education in meteorology.At the same time, Victoria has built an equally impressive path in pageantry. After earning the title of Miss Rio Grande Valley USA 2026, she was selected as Miss Mississippi USA 2026, giving her the opportunity to represent Mississippi on the Miss USA stage.In this episode, Victoria talks about balancing two highly competitive worlds, broadcast journalism and pageantry, while staying connected to the community that helped shape her.We get into the pressure of working in live television, the discipline required to compete at the highest level of pageantry, and what it means to represent the Rio Grande Valley while pursuing opportunities that extend far beyond South Texas.Victoria also shares the personal side of the journey, including confidence, preparation, handling public scrutiny, building a career in media, and learning how to stay grounded while more doors continue to open.It is a conversation about ambition, hometown pride, and what can happen when someone is willing to bet on themselves.Welcome to The Saddle Up Podcast, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride meet at the same table.Hosted by G Garza and Matt Palmquist, Saddle Up features conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, journalists, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley.Subscribe to The Saddle Up Podcast for more honest conversations with the people helping shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Find The Saddle Up Podcast on:YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Eddie Lee Marburger for a conversation about football, identity, competition, and what life feels like when the eligibility clock finally runs out.Eddie talks about being on the other side of the lines now, no longer preparing for the next snap, the next opponent, or the next season. For a player who has spent years living inside the structure and pressure of college football, that transition creates a completely different perspective on the game.We also get into what it really takes to be a Division I quarterback. Eddie breaks down the mental side of the position, preparation, leadership, confidence, decision-making, and the pressure that comes with being responsible for an offense when everyone in the stadium is watching.Of course, this is Saddle Up, so the conversation does not stay serious for long.Eddie gives us his thoughts on Uncle Gee-Co, shares some of the craziest trash talk he has heard during a game, and lets us know whether his golf game is actually as good as he thinks it is.It is a fun, honest conversation about football, life after playing, and the stories you only hear when the helmet finally comes off.

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Kris Nava, a UTRGV professor and medical trainer at St. Joseph’s Academy, for a conversation about sports medicine, education, athlete care, and preparing the next generation for careers in health and athletics.Kris brings together two worlds that rarely get discussed in the same conversation: the classroom and the sideline. At UTRGV, athletic training and kinesiology education focus on the prevention, recognition, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries, while also preparing students for careers in athletic training and sports medicine.At St. Joseph’s Academy, athletic training plays an important role in student-athlete wellness, including injury evaluation and treatment, game coverage, rehabilitation, emergency procedures, nutrition, anatomy, and sports psychology education.In this episode, Kris discusses what it really takes to care for athletes beyond game day, the importance of injury prevention and recovery, the responsibility that comes with helping young athletes return to competition safely, and how teaching can shape the future of sports medicine in the Rio Grande Valley.The conversation also explores the relationship between coaches, trainers, athletes, parents, and medical professionals, along with the growing opportunities available for students interested in athletic training, kinesiology, rehabilitation, and other healthcare careers.More than anything, this episode gives viewers a look at the people behind the scenes who help keep athletes healthy, prepared, and able to compete.------Follow G IG / @gghoops Follow Matt IG / @ptwist610 Welcome to **The Saddle Up Podcast**, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride all meet at the same table.Hosted by **G Garza and Matt Palmquist**, Saddle Up brings you conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to **UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley**. Every episode is built around honest conversation, good laughs, untold stories, and the people who continue to shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Whether you are a UTPA alum, UTB alum, UTRGV supporter, Vaquero fan, RGV native, sports fan, or someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.Subscribe to **The Saddle Up Podcast** for more conversations with the people who represent the Rio Grande Valley with pride.**Find Saddle Up Podcast on:**YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.**Follow us:**Facebook: www.facebook.com/saddleuppodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: www.instagram.com/saddle_up_pod?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Spotify: https:// open.spotify.com/show/79B4Gl7miBWwpD4kM1tKIVApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/saddle-up-podcast/id1666138276Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/04f3f96f-9dcb-4c42-a91c-a87dfc38655b/saddle-up-podcastiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-saddle-up-podcast-107415364/**Keywords:**Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza, Matt Palmquist, UTRGV, UTPA, UTB, UTRGV Athletics, Vaquero Athletics, Rio Grande Valley, RGV podcast, best podcast in the RGV, funniest podcast in the RGV, UTRGV alumni, UTPA alumni, UTB alumni, RGV sports, South Texas podcast, college sports podcast, Valley stories, RGV community, UTRGV football, UTRGV basketball, UTRGV baseball, UTRGV athletics podcast#SaddleUpPodcast #UTRGV #UTPA #UTB #RGV #RioGrandeValley #VaqueroPride

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Yaw Sam, CEO and co-founder of Brand Geniuz, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, social media, branding, the creator economy, and building something meaningful right here in the Rio Grande Valley.Originally from Ghana, West Africa, Yaw moved to the United States and made the RGV home. He earned both his undergraduate degree and MBA from UTRGV, then turned his passion for marketing and content creation into Brand Geniuz, a Mission-based content marketing agency he co-founded in 2020. Today, the company works with businesses across Texas through social media strategy, content creation, video production, digital advertising, and branding.Yaw has also taken his experience back into the classroom as a UTRGV lecturer in Social Media and E-Marketing, helping the next generation understand how modern brands are built. In 2024, he delivered a TEDx talk titled “Small Actions Build Brands,” centered on how everyday interactions and consistent value can shape powerful personal and business brands.The conversation also explores Yaw’s growing vision for the creator economy in South Texas. As a co-founder of SocialFest, he is helping create a platform where creators, entrepreneurs, marketers, students, and businesses can learn how to turn attention, content, and community into real opportunities. SocialFest drew more than 1,000 attendees in its first year and continues to grow as Yaw and his team work to position the Rio Grande Valley as a destination for creators and brands.From arriving in the Valley from Ghana to becoming a UTRGV graduate, educator, entrepreneur, and one of the RGV’s emerging voices in digital marketing, Yaw’s story is ultimately about recognizing opportunity and then creating more of it for the people around him.------Follow G IG / @gghoops Follow Matt IG / @ptwist610 Welcome to **The Saddle Up Podcast**, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride all meet at the same table.Hosted by **G Garza and Matt Palmquist**, Saddle Up brings you conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to **UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley**. Every episode is built around honest conversation, good laughs, untold stories, and the people who continue to shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Whether you are a UTPA alum, UTB alum, UTRGV supporter, Vaquero fan, RGV native, sports fan, or someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.Subscribe to **The Saddle Up Podcast** for more conversations with the people who represent the Rio Grande Valley with pride.**Find Saddle Up Podcast on:**YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.**Follow us:**Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saddleuppodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: https://instagram.com/saddle_up_pod?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79B4Gl7miBWwpD4kM1tKIVApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/saddle-up-podcast/id1666138276Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/04f3f96f-9dcb-4c42-a91c-a87dfc38655b/saddle-up-podcastiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-saddle-up-podcast-107415364/**Keywords:**Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza, Matt Palmquist, UTRGV, UTPA, UTB, UTRGV Athletics, Vaquero Athletics, Rio Grande Valley, RGV podcast, best podcast in the RGV, funniest podcast in the RGV, UTRGV alumni, UTPA alumni, UTB alumni, RGV sports, South Texas podcast, college sports podcast, Valley stories, RGV community, UTRGV football, UTRGV basketball, UTRGV baseball, UTRGV athletics podcast#SaddleUpPodcast #UTRGV #UTPA #UTB #RGV #RioGrandeValley #VaqueroPride

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Shareese Hicks, Head Coach of the UTRGV Track & Field and Cross-Country programs, for a conversation about leadership, competition, student-athlete development, and building a championship culture in the Rio Grande Valley.Coach Hicks brings an accomplished background to UTRGV as both a coach and former professional athlete. Before arriving in the Valley, she served as an assistant coach at Memphis, where she worked with the Tigers’ sprinters and hurdlers. She previously spent five seasons as the head track and field coach at Neosho County Community College, producing 20 NJCAA national qualifiers and three All-Americans.Her own career on the track was equally impressive. Hicks was a four-time All-American at Charlotte, won nine individual conference championships, contributed to five conference relay titles, and recorded 17 all-conference performances. She later competed professionally, becoming a 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials finalist in the 400-meter dash and earning medals at the USA Indoor Championships, World Indoor Championships, NACAC Championships, and Pan American Games.In this episode, Coach Hicks discusses the mindset required to compete at an elite level, the transition from athlete to coach, and the responsibility of developing young men and women academically, athletically, and personally. The conversation also explores recruiting, building trust across multiple event groups, creating accountability within a large program, and what it takes to establish UTRGV as a consistent championship contender.Beyond times, distances, and finishes, Coach Hicks shares why character, academics, community involvement, and preparation remain central to the culture she is building at UTRGV.------Follow G IG / @gghoops Follow Matt IG / @ptwist610 Welcome to **The Saddle Up Podcast**, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride all meet at the same table.Hosted by **G Garza and Matt Palmquist**, Saddle Up brings you conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to **UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley**. Every episode is built around honest conversation, good laughs, untold stories, and the people who continue to shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Whether you are a UTPA alum, UTB alum, UTRGV supporter, Vaquero fan, RGV native, sports fan, or someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.Subscribe to **The Saddle Up Podcast** for more conversations with the people who represent the Rio Grande Valley with pride.**Find Saddle Up Podcast on:**YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.**Follow us:**Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saddleuppodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: https://instagram.com/saddle_up_pod?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79B4Gl7miBWwpD4kM1tKIVApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/saddle-up-podcast/id1666138276Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/04f3f96f-9dcb-4c42-a91c-a87dfc38655b/saddle-up-podcastiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-saddle-up-podcast-107415364/**Keywords:**Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza, Matt Palmquist, UTRGV, UTPA, UTB, UTRGV Athletics, Vaquero Athletics, Rio Grande Valley, RGV podcast, best podcast in the RGV, funniest podcast in the RGV, UTRGV alumni, UTPA alumni, UTB alumni, RGV sports, South Texas podcast, college sports podcast, Valley stories, RGV community, UTRGV football, UTRGV basketball, UTRGV baseball, UTRGV athletics podcast#SaddleUpPodcast #UTRGV #UTPA #UTB #RGV #RioGrandeValley #VaqueroPride

This week on, The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome UTRGV Football Head Coach Travis Bush back to the show for a conversation about the program’s historic first season, the upcoming training camp, and the work required to build lasting success in the Rio Grande Valley.Coach Bush reflects on UTRGV’s introduction to FCS college football and what made that inaugural team so special. That first group of players and coaches did more than compete. They established the culture, traditions, expectations, and foundation that future generations of Vaqueros will inherit.With another season approaching, Coach Bush offers a look inside the preparation for training camp, the competition taking place throughout the roster, and the standards the program must continue raising. He also discusses how the experience gained during that historic first season will shape the Vaqueros moving forward.The conversation highlights the tremendous support surrounding UTRGV Football, including the leadership of UTRGV President Dr. Guy Bailey, Vice President and Director of Athletics Chasse Conque, the football coaching staff, athletic department employees, donors, fans, and community members who helped turn the vision of Vaquero Football into a reality.Of course, no appearance from Coach Bush would be complete without G creating a little chaos. The episode also includes an update on "Uncle Gee-Co” entering the transfer portal, whether any programs have shown interest, and whether Coach Bush believes there is still a place on the roster for a 49-year-old walk-on with unlimited confidence.This episode is about more than football. It is a behind-the-scenes look at building a program from the ground up, honoring the people who made the first season possible, and preparing UTRGV Football for the next chapter of its history.------Follow G IG / @gghoops Follow Matt IG / @ptwist610 Welcome to **The Saddle Up Podcast**, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride all meet at the same table.Hosted by **G Garza and Matt Palmquist**, Saddle Up brings you conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to **UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley**. Every episode is built around honest conversation, good laughs, untold stories, and the people who continue to shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Whether you are a UTPA alum, UTB alum, UTRGV supporter, Vaquero fan, RGV native, sports fan, or someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.Subscribe to **The Saddle Up Podcast** for more conversations with the people who represent the Rio Grande Valley with pride.**Find Saddle Up Podcast on:**YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.**Follow us:**Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saddleuppodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: https://instagram.com/saddle_up_pod?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79B4Gl7miBWwpD4kM1tKIVApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/saddle-up-podcast/id1666138276Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/04f3f96f-9dcb-4c42-a91c-a87dfc38655b/saddle-up-podcastiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-saddle-up-podcast-107415364/**Keywords:**Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza, Matt Palmquist, UTRGV, UTPA, UTB, UTRGV Athletics, Vaquero Athletics, Rio Grande Valley, RGV podcast, best podcast in the RGV, funniest podcast in the RGV, UTRGV alumni, UTPA alumni, UTB alumni, RGV sports, South Texas podcast, college sports podcast, Valley stories, RGV community, UTRGV football, UTRGV basketball, UTRGV baseball, UTRGV athletics podcast#SaddleUpPodcast #UTRGV #UTPA #UTB #RGV #RioGrandeValley #VaqueroPride

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Elisa Mares, UTRGV’s Director of External Relations, for a conversation about alumni engagement, university pride, and building lifelong connections between graduates and the institution they helped shape.UTRGV represents a growing global network of more than 100,000 alumni, including graduates of UTRGV and its legacy institutions, UTPA and UT Brownsville/Texas Southmost College. The university’s alumni mission focuses on strengthening relationships with graduates, students, families, and friends while encouraging involvement, loyalty, philanthropy, and continued support for student success.Elisa joins the show to discuss the importance of keeping alumni connected long after graduation, celebrating the history shared by UTPA, UTB, and UTRGV, and creating opportunities for former students to reconnect with the university. She also shares how alumni can become more involved, support future generations of Vaqueros, and help strengthen the university’s impact throughout the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.The conversation gives viewers a closer look at the people and relationships behind UTRGV’s continued growth, along with the responsibility of honoring the university’s legacy while helping build its future.Find The Saddle Up Podcast on:YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.------Follow G IG / @gghoops Follow Matt IG / @ptwist610 Welcome to **The Saddle Up Podcast**, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride all meet at the same table.Hosted by **G Garza and Matt Palmquist**, Saddle Up brings you conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to **UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley**. Every episode is built around honest conversation, good laughs, untold stories, and the people who continue to shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Whether you are a UTPA alum, UTB alum, UTRGV supporter, Vaquero fan, RGV native, sports fan, or someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.Subscribe to **The Saddle Up Podcast** for more conversations with the people who represent the Rio Grande Valley with pride.**Find Saddle Up Podcast on:**YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.**Follow us:**Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saddleuppodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: https://instagram.com/saddle_up_pod?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79B4Gl7miBWwpD4kM1tKIVApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/saddle-up-podcast/id1666138276Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/04f3f96f-9dcb-4c42-a91c-a87dfc38655b/saddle-up-podcastiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-saddle-up-podcast-107415364/**Keywords:**Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza, Matt Palmquist, UTRGV, UTPA, UTB, UTRGV Athletics, Vaquero Athletics, Rio Grande Valley, RGV podcast, best podcast in the RGV, funniest podcast in the RGV, UTRGV alumni, UTPA alumni, UTB alumni, RGV sports, South Texas podcast, college sports podcast, Valley stories, RGV community, UTRGV football, UTRGV basketball, UTRGV baseball, UTRGV athletics podcast#SaddleUpPodcast #UTRGV #UTPA #UTB #RGV #RioGrandeValley #VaqueroPride

This week on The Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza and Matt Palmquist welcome Javier Villalobos, Mayor of the City of McAllen, for a conversation about leadership, public service, community growth, and the future of one of the Rio Grande Valley’s most influential cities. Before being elected mayor in 2021, Villalobos served as McAllen’s District 1 city commissioner. An attorney by profession, he brings experience in government, law, and community service to his role leading the city.Mayor Villalobos joins the show to discuss McAllen’s continued growth, the responsibility that comes with leading a rapidly evolving city, and the projects and priorities shaping its next chapter. The conversation also explores economic development, infrastructure, public safety, quality of life, and the importance of maintaining a strong connection between city leadership and the people it serves. We also discuss catching possums and the craziest requests he has received while being in office.As always, the conversation goes beyond titles and politics, giving viewers a closer look at the person behind the position, the experiences that shaped his leadership style, and what he believes makes McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley such a special place to live, work, and raise a family.------Follow G IG / @gghoops Follow Matt IG / @ptwist610 Welcome to **The Saddle Up Podcast**, the unscripted RGV show where real stories, sports, culture, community, and Vaquero pride all meet at the same table.Hosted by **G Garza and Matt Palmquist**, Saddle Up brings you conversations with former athletes, coaches, alumni, community leaders, entertainers, business owners, and difference-makers connected to **UTPA, UTB, UTRGV, and the Rio Grande Valley**. Every episode is built around honest conversation, good laughs, untold stories, and the people who continue to shape the Valley’s past, present, and future.Whether you are a UTPA alum, UTB alum, UTRGV supporter, Vaquero fan, RGV native, sports fan, or someone who loves authentic conversations, this episode is for you.Subscribe to **The Saddle Up Podcast** for more conversations with the people who represent the Rio Grande Valley with pride.**Find Saddle Up Podcast on:**YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.**Follow us:**Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saddleuppodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4dInstagram: https://instagram.com/saddle_up_pod?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79B4Gl7miBWwpD4kM1tKIVApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/saddle-up-podcast/id1666138276Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/04f3f96f-9dcb-4c42-a91c-a87dfc38655b/saddle-up-podcastiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-saddle-up-podcast-107415364/**Keywords:**Saddle Up Podcast, G Garza, Matt Palmquist, UTRGV, UTPA, UTB, UTRGV Athletics, Vaquero Athletics, Rio Grande Valley, RGV podcast, best podcast in the RGV, funniest podcast in the RGV, UTRGV alumni, UTPA alumni, UTB alumni, RGV sports, South Texas podcast, college sports podcast, Valley stories, RGV community, UTRGV football, UTRGV basketball, UTRGV baseball, UTRGV athletics podcast#SaddleUpPodcast #UTRGV #UTPA #UTB #RGV #RioGrandeValley #VaqueroPride #JavierVillalobos #MayorofMcAllen

Staarz, is a name in the music industry circles that is turning ears. Being only 25 years old and achieving the success she has recently achieved is a testament to her hard work and talent. Explore this Los Fresnos icon and up and coming superstar!

Revisiting our conversation with Dr. William Yancey is one of the kindest and most intriguing gentlemen you might ever get to meet. Join us as we talk about his childhood shaping him to the surreal moment of walking onto the Alex Trabec stage to winning Jeopardy.

G and Matt are at it again. Tune if for the finale for Season 6.

Ingridy Foltran is one of the most unique guests we have had on the show. She is not only a 4yr letter winner, but her fascinating story to get to UTRGV will amaze you... and not only that, but how she is helping bring water to those in drought in the Corpus Christi area will astonish you!

UTRGV Football Legend and Valley native, Eddie Lee Marburger, joins the show week. Here about his favorite play and him call it out as if we were in the huddle. Eddie Lee is a wonderful man, grounded in faith and guided by solid people surrounding him. LFG!!!

Roy Rivas is creating something special with DITV Sports. Learn his story and his amazing ability to network with people and why he has dug himself in with the Valley Sports niche coming from Oceanside California.

UTRGV Head Men's Basketball Coach, Brandon Chambers, joins the show this week to introduce himself to Vaquero Nation. Listen to him talk about how he feels like the luckiest man alive and being undefeated in the Field House. We are excited to have him... on the show AND on the sidelines! LFG.

This week on Saddle Up, we’re joined by Dr. Jose A. Ramos, Jr., the newly named Texas Region 7 Athletic Trainer of the Year at McAllen High School. Dr. Ramos has spent years on the front line of high school sports, protecting athletes, managing injuries, and helping students get back on the field the right way. In this conversation, he breaks down what people do not see behind Friday night lights: the preparation, the prevention work, the pressure moments, and the responsibility of caring for hundreds of student-athletes across multiple sports.We also talk about leadership, building trust with coaches and parents, and what it means to raise the standard for sports medicine in the Rio Grande Valley.What you’ll hear in this episodeWhat the Region 7 honor represents, and why it matters The daily reality of being an athletic trainer at a major high schoolInjury prevention, rehab principles, and return-to-play decisionsAdvice for young athletes and parents navigating injuriesHow the RGV can keep developing safer, stronger sports programs

This week on Saddle Up, we’re joined by Jett Garza, an up-and-coming country music standout from Brownsville, Texas, making serious noise with his debut album, Rearview, now available on all streaming platforms and YouTube.Jett sits down with G and Matt to talk about the stories behind the record, what he pulled from growing up in the Valley, and the grind it takes to build momentum as an independent artist. If you love real songwriting, Texas roots, and artists on the come-up, this episode will be your lane.If you’re in the RGV, you can catch Jett live at his album release party on May 23 at Barn Yard Burger in Brownsville, Texas. Come support, bring friends, and get there early.Listen to the debut album here:https://open.spotify.com/album/5VIPk3R6LZuAOdltelRIgZ?si=zvl7Qb-ZTWuH8ulUid785wIn this episodeThe meaning behind Rearview and the songs that hit closest to homeHow Brownsville shaped his sound and work ethicWhat’s next for Jett, and where he wants to take this runLive show plans and how fans can support the movement

This week on Saddle Up, we welcome Houston Moore, the Director of Golf at UTRGV, leading both the men’s and women’s programs. It’s a timely conversation because both Vaquero teams are bringing hardware back to the Valley. The UTRGV women’s team won the Southland Conference Championship on April 15, 2026, earning the league title and an automatic postseason bid. One week later, the UTRGV men’s team captured its first-ever Southland Conference Championship on April 22, 2026, marking a major milestone for the program. Coach Moore breaks down what it takes to build championship culture across two squads, how the team prepares in-season versus postseason, and what these titles mean for recruiting, expectations, and the future of Vaquero golf.

This week on Saddle Up, we’re joined by Rene Flores, a former UTPA baseball player whose story reflects the work, pride, and resilience that define baseball in the Rio Grande Valley.Rene takes us back to his playing days at UTPA, the teammates and coaches who shaped him, and what it really took to compete at the college level. We also talk about life after the diamond, how baseball lessons translate into leadership and family, and why the Valley continues to produce tough, hungry athletes.If you’re a UTPA alum, a baseball lifer, or someone who appreciates a real journey built on discipline and grit, you’ll enjoy this one.

This week on Saddle Up, we sit down with Roland Gonzalez to talk about leadership, community, and building something meaningful. Roland shares how his background shaped the way he leads, why people and culture come first, and what it looks like to give back while still holding high standards.We also talk about mentorship, opportunity, and why the Rio Grande Valley produces more talent than it gets credit for.

Renee Leal is one of the most talented and hardest working women in the RGV! Learn about her story and her quest to bringing the Citrus Theater in Edinburg back to life!

Jack Kaufold’s story is the kind that reminds you how fast life can change when preparation meets opportunity. From growing up in Edinburg to landing a college internship that opened real doors, Jack turned an early break into a blueprint. Now he’s on the other side of the table, helping college students find the same kind of life-altering opportunities, and teaching them how to show up ready when it counts.In this episode, Jack breaks down what actually works for students trying to get hired: how to stand out without connections, what mentors look for, and why the right internship can change the entire trajectory of a career. If you’re a student, a parent, or someone who wants to build a better path from the Valley to bigger rooms, this conversation will hit home.

This week on Saddle Up, we sit down with Dr. Cynthia Catchings for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, service, and what it really takes to build a life and career that matters.Dr. Catchings, an alumni of UTRGV, shares the mindset and discipline behind sustained success, how she approaches purpose-driven work, and the lessons she has learned from helping others through real-world challenges. We talk about the difference between influence and impact, what strong leadership looks like when nobody is watching, and why consistency beats talent over the long haul.This episode is equal parts motivating and practical, with stories and takeaways you can apply immediately, whether you are building a career, leading a team, or trying to level up your personal life.

Bobby Pulido joins the show this week and we talk a wide range of topics. Learn what it was like growing up in Edinburg, what some of Bobby's fondest memories are, and what he has planned for people in District 15 if elected to US Congress. LFG!

This week on Saddle Up, we sit down with longtime RGV basketball coach David Keith, a program builder who has helped shape winning culture across the Valley, including stops with the Sharyland Rattlers and Edinburg-area high school basketball.Coach Keith breaks down what most fans never see: the daily standards, the accountability, and the player development that turns a roster into a team. We talk about how RGV basketball has evolved, what it takes to sustain success year after year, and why leadership matters more than plays when the season gets hard. He also shares real stories from the grind, the relationships that define a career, and what he believes the next generation of Valley athletes needs to hear.If you love Texas high school basketball, coaching, or the behind-the-scenes work that builds a real program, this episode is for you.

This week on Saddle Up, we’re joined by Gabriella Ebel, a Brownsville native whose journey took her from the Rio Grande Valley to the biggest stage in entertainment: the Super Bowl halftime show.Gabriella shares what it really takes to break into elite performance, the discipline behind the scenes, and how the RGV shaped her drive. We also talk about her work in major productions, including performing alongside Bad Bunny, and what it felt like being part of one of the most watched halftime shows in history. From auditions and rehearsals to the pressure of live television, Gabriella gives an honest look at what success costs, and why it is worth it.If you’re an artist, athlete, performer, or anyone building something bigger than your hometown, this episode is for you.

This episode with Regina Richardson, RGV criminal defense attorney, traces a gritty, real path to purpose. She reflects on working late shifts at Taco Bell and Taco Cabana in college, the turning points that led her to law school, and how those early jobs shaped her work ethic with clients today. We also have fun with a dream dinner table question. Regina picks Tupac Shakur and Dr. William Strong, then explains why their voices matter to her view of justice, culture, and second chances.

For a record third appearance, Chasse Conque returns to Saddle Up. We cover the surge of UTRGV Football, the transition into FCS and the Southland Conference, and the ripple effects across every sport on campus. Chasse breaks down how the department is stacking record GPAs, why fan, donor, and community support has accelerated the plan, and what milestones are next on the university’s roadmap.

This week’s guest is Chris Fagan, a 6-5 forward from the Bronx who made his mark at UTPA with toughness on the glass and timely scoring. After arriving by way of Trinidad State College, Fagan became a fixture in the Broncs’ frontcourt, averaging double-figure points in back-to-back seasons and delivering some of the era’s most memorable performances.

This week we’re joined by Iran “Biggie” Perez, widely known as Mr. Brownsville. Biggie has worn just about every hat in the local sports scene, from coaching to media to community organizing, all with one aim, better opportunities for Valley kids.A longtime educator and coach in Brownsville, Biggie has served across multiple programs at Rivera High School, contributing to football and basketball while also helping with school athletics media and outreach. His roles have included freshman football and JV boys basketball, plus social media manager and webmaster support for Rivera athletics. LFG!

Season 6 Episode 1!!! Our guest this week to kick off the new season is Matthew Thomas, a former UTPA Men’s Basketball player from 2008 to 2011. He joins G and Matt to revisit those seasons, the grind of Division I hoops, and the personal journey that led to his name change after college.

This week’s guest is Garry Dippell, a true UTPA Baseball legend whose story embodies grit, consistency, and excellence. Hailing from LaGrange, Texas, Garry walked on to the UTPA baseball team in 1978—and went on to etch his name into program history.During his standout career, Garry hit a program-record .443 in 1979, earning All-District VI honors, and followed it up with another stellar year in 1980, when he served as team captain and received the Jody Ramsey Award. His offensive production was unmatched: a .550 on-base percentage, .508 slugging percentage, and 55 walks in 1980, one of the highest single-season totals in program history.Garry was part of one of the winningest eras in UTPA baseball, helping lead the team to 113 victories between 1979 and 1980. His performance earned him a professional opportunity with the Gulf Coast League Cubs following his senior year.In this episode, Garry joins G and Matt to talk about:- His journey from walk-on to record holder- Lessons learned under legendary UTPA leadership- The mindset that fueled his success at the plate- Memories from the program’s golden years- His transition from college baseball to the professional ranksA must-listen for baseball purists, UTPA alumni, and fans of stories about perseverance paying off.

This week we welcome Robert and Janet Vackar of Bert Ogden Auto Group for a candid conversation about philanthropy, community building, and their deep commitment to UTRGV. We discuss why giving matters to them, how they evaluate impact, and what it takes to sustain long term support for students, athletics, and the Rio Grande Valley. The Vackars also share honest thoughts on UTRGV Football’s inaugural season, whether expectations were met, and what success should look like in year two. We close with stories behind the brand, leadership lessons, and what is next for the Valley.

Dr. Guy Bailey, UTRGV President, and his lovely wife, Val Lamantia, join the show this week. We recorded a rare in person interview at the Robert & Janet Vackar Football Stadium and we talked about his journey, his vision, and welcoming back all alumni looking for a home.

This week we revisit our in-person interview with Lane Lord, the head coach of UTRGV Women’s Basketball and one of the most respected program-builders in the game. Before taking over in the Valley in 2018, Lord turned Pittsburg State into a perennial contender—seven 20-win seasons in 11 years, multiple NCAA tournament runs, and a 2017 MIAA regular-season title—earning five MIAA Coach of the Year honors and three NCAA Regional Coach of the Year awards along the way. At UTRGV, Lord has continued laying a foundation—developing all-conference talent and leading the Vaqueros through annual battles in the Southland, most recently guiding the 2024–25 squad with his trademark defense-and-details approach.In this conversation, Coach Lord unpacks:How to establish culture and standards that travelThe recruiting blueprint that fueled his rise from high school and JUCO to Division I head coach.Lessons from building winners at Pitt State—and applying them in Edinburg.What’s next for Vaqueros Women’s Basketball?

With basketball season around the corner, we’re rewinding one of our favorites: Kahil Fennell. In this revisited episode, Kahil dives into culture-building, player development, and the mindset it takes to compete when the lights get bright. We revisit his story, his coaching philosophies, and the habits that translate from practice to game day—perfect fuel as hoops season tips off.What You’ll HearKahil’s approach to leadership, accountability, and team cultureScouting, film, and the details that decide close gamesHow to keep players locked in over a long seasonLessons for athletes, coaches, and fans heading into opening weekJoin the ConversationDrop your predictions for this season and your favorite takeaway from Kahil’s episode. Subscribe for more tip-off content, player spotlights, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Maria Ben Earlingsdottir joins the show from Iceland! A standout basketball player for the women's team, she talks about the struggles she faced playing during her time on campus and the special relationship she shares with Bianca Torres.

This week’s guest is Miguel Marquez, Saddle Up Podcast's very 1st, 'Saddle Up Stan"— is a Nikki Rowe HS alum, UTPA graduate, and Nurse Practitioner based in McAllen. Miguel joins G and Matt for a fast-moving, laugh-filled episode that delivers a Saddle Up first: a live gender reveal for his and his wife’s second child.Miguel shares stories from growing up in the RGV to building a career in healthcare, life with his wife and daughter, and what’s next for their growing family. He also dishes on two unforgettable moments: the mystery of G’s never-delivered Wing Barn gift certificates, and the chance encounter where he finally met Matt—on a flight.

In this episode of Saddle Up, we spotlight Isaac Lopez, a standout graduate student for the UTRGV Vaqueros baseball team and a proud Vela High School alum from Edinburg. Isaac has consistently impressed this season, earning recognition as a semifinalist for the Brooks Wallace Award, which honors the top shortstops in the nation.UTRGV AthleticsFrom the stat sheet to the spotlight:Isaac is ranked 68th in the NCAA in hits per game (1.47) and 5th in the Southland Conference, while also posting a .347 batting average. UTRGV AthleticsHe has delivered 22 multi-hit games and contributed 12 multi-RBI performances this year. In our chat, Isaac opens up about:His roots in Edinburg and journey from Vela to Division IThe training and mindset behind his breakout seasonWhat it means to be named among the top shortstops in the country.His goals—both for the rest of the season and beyond baseballThis is a must-watch for Vaquero fans, baseball lovers, and anyone who appreciates hard work paying off on the diamond.

In this episode of Saddle Up, we welcome Isela “Sel” Gomez, UTRGV alumna and the first full‑time Head Coach of the UTRGV Spirit Program, to share her inspiring vision and journey building spirit, dance, cheer, and mascot excellence at the university.Isela returned home to the Valley to lead UTRGV’s expanded Spirit Program, overseeing cheer, dance, and mascot teams and helping bring new traditions to campus life. University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley+2utrgvrider.com+2 With a foundation in dance (she holds a bachelor’s degree in Dance from legacy UTPA) and years of work in local dance and drill programs, she brings both expertise and heart to this role. University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley+1In our conversation, Isela discusses:What motivated her to return and lead the Spirit ProgramThe challenges and opportunities in growing a collegiate spirit organization from the ground upCollaboration with her staff, including cheer and dance coaches, and the role of the spirit program in supporting athletics and campus engagementThe rollout of new features like a UTRGV drill team debuting Fall 2025 KRGV+1Her goals for elevating the program competitively, institutionally, and in the communityWhether you’re involved in spirit/dance, athletics, or campus life — this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at the work and passion needed to build culture, pride, and momentum.

A Dallas native and one of a handful of athletes who competed all four years of eligibility for the University, Lesley Varner II shares his story, from his first bucket to his current role as a professional basketball player in Greece.

Discover the inspiring story of celebrity chef Arturo Ramon, a Brownsville native featured on some of the nation’s top cooking shows. In this episode, Arturo shares how he launched his culinary career, his vision for future food projects, and his powerful experience feeding tens of thousands of people during the Kerrville flood relief effort. Perfect for fans of Texas cooking, food culture, and chef interviews, this conversation offers behind-the-scenes insights and inspiration for food lovers everywhere.

Matt Hall is no Deion Sanders, but he is one of the only 2 sport athletes at the University of Texas-Pan American. The Houston native shares his story of being recruited and some of his favorite memories in Edinburg.

One of the best players to ever play basketball in La Joya, behind Juan Muniz and Adan Montalvo. Eric Montalvo has always played passion and extreme confidence! Listen to his story and how he is passing that knowledge to RGV youth with his academy!

This week Matt & G take a moment to clear up some misconceptions surrounding being a guest on the show. They also talk about leaving a legacy at UTRGV.

This is the man they call, 'Cool'?! JeRon Allen joins the show this week and his legacy is forever forged on the campus of UTRGV. Learn about how his path got him to Edinburg and how his heart now and his love for the RGV remains with the community.

One of the most beloved and grittiest basketball players to ever play in the Field House, Julie Shakin, joins the show this week! She is a HOF'r in our book and one of the coolest and most down to earth people to ever walk the covered walk-ways. LFG!

This week we have one of the best attorneys in the Rio Grande Valley. Leah Wise is a force! Whether she is fighting for her clients, sharing on social media or designing a fashion line, Leah gets it done! Check her out now!

Kenny Gardner, professional basketball referee and actor, joins the show this week. He talks about growing up playing for Coach G, his one moment he would go back in time for, and how Spike Lee curved him at lunch! This is an episode you don't want to miss.