Jim Bratton Podcast

        Jim visits with Dori Bosnyak, marketing director at The Grand in Galveston, about her background, the history and personality of The Grand, upcoming performances, and what makes the venue such a special part of the island. The Music Man is on stage June 26/27 Texas Tenors July 3 Beware of Short Texans July 11 (3 & 8 PM) Bill Engvall Aug 8 John Mulaney Oct 11 Behind the scenes video: https://youtu.be/c8WlX5WkRiI The Grand 1894 Opera House  2020 Postoffice Street, Galveston, TX 77550 T 806.451.9898 | www.thegrand.com  

t's not that we lack time—it's how we use it. In this Stoic Minute, Seneca's insight brings attention back to something simple and uncomfortable: where our time actually goes. A one-minute reflection on attention, intention, and living deliberately.

A one-minute Stoic reflection on sufficiency and contentment

Events themselves are neutral. It is interpretation that creates disturbance.

What feels like resistance may actually be the path forward. Today's Stoic Minute reframes obstacles as instruction—and shows how difficulty shapes strength, clarity, and progress.

A one-minute Stoic reflection to help you steady your thinking and move through the day with clarity. Today's focus: control—what is yours, and what never was.

This week on the Jim Bratton Podcast, we step into one of Galveston's most joyful traditions. The Grand Kids Festival is celebrating 30 years, and Fallon Dupard from The Grand 1894 Opera House joins us to talk about a three-block outdoor festival filled with performances, storytelling, arts, food, and free family fun. If you want to know what's happening in Galveston on April 25th, this is your insider guide https://www.thegrand.com/the-grand-kids-festival/ Behind the scenes video.  https://youtu.be/GbE96ZB5dFI

In this moving episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, Jim sits down with Rose Sulentic, and Tracy Tang, two non-traditional medical students whose lives and careers have been shaped by deeply personal experiences with grief. This conversation explores the emotional landscape of anticipatory grief, healing through writing, medicine's human side, and the creation of a remarkable Grief Kit designed to help others process loss. This is a thoughtful, vulnerable discussion about what grief really looks like—not always visible, but always present. Grief Kit Links.  https://clammy-preface-32a.notion.site/The-Grief-Kit-A-Resource-for-Medical-Trainees-Navigating-Loss-335b5f33cd24804d8881c35ead870122   Flipbook (best reading experience): https://heyzine.com/flip-book/696653ed67.html#page/1  Behind the Scenes Video https://youtu.be/yE3oDhQpgSU About the Guests Tracy Tang is a fourth-year medical student at the University of Texas Medical Branch and holds an MBA from the University of Oxford. Prior to medical school, she practiced as an occupational therapist. She is the founder of the Humanities in Medicine Lecture Series, an initiative dedicated to integrating the humanities into medical training, and serves as a co-editor and contributor to the Grief Kit. RoseSulentic, MPH, is a medical student at the University of Texas Medical Branch with a background in public health and epidemiology. She was a co-director for the Humanities in Medicine Lecture series, and is the editor and contributor to The Grief Kit, a zine designed to help individuals navigate grief and loss. 

In one of the most emotional and courageous episodes of Focus Your Inner Bitch, Mary Bratton shares the darkest night of her life—and the mindset that carried her through it. What begins as a conversation about practical safety lessons for women living alone becomes something far deeper: a raw, unforgettable story of surviving a violent assault, refusing shame, and choosing strength over fear. Mary's reflections are not about victimhood. They are about vigilance, resilience, and the decision not to let trauma define the rest of your life. This episode is difficult, honest, and ultimately empowering. If you have ever faced fear, violation, or a moment that could have changed your life forever, this conversation is for you.  

Before Jim: Mary Bratton's Dating Adventures Suggested Episode Introduction (Libsyn / show notes) In this hilarious and surprisingly candid episode of Focus Your Inner Bitch: The Mary Bratton Story, Mary opens up about the unforgettable men she dated before meeting Jim—from the Audi guy who was shaken by her Mercedes, to the charming younger fling, to the wildly over-planned metallurgist with a "sex closet" proposal. With warmth, humor, and Mary's trademark honesty, this episode becomes a playful look at intuition, red flags, attraction, and how life's strange turns eventually led her to the right man—Jim and his Delta 88. A funny, revealing, and deeply human conversation about dating, standards, and the stories we carry into love. Behind the scenes Video. https://youtu.be/WY1bWpxumoo

Dave Baca shares how his journey from engineering to library science led him to build Happy Town Community, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening other nonprofits. Through strategic planning, board development, and operational support, He is helping organizations move from ideas to measurable impact. This episode explores how strong systems, clear messaging, and community collaboration can transform both nonprofits and the communities they serve Here's a link to a bonus behind the Scenes of the podcast. https://youtu.be/ELl5IUPd6sw   David R. Baca, PhD Executive Director Happy Town Community www.happytowncommunity.org 409.599.1441 [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584315827666#    

Suicide prevention often begins with a simple conversation. In this episode of The Jim Bratton Podcast, Jim speaks with Kelly Day and Shanice Blair from the Galveston chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Drawing from their work as a teacher and a mental health therapist, they discuss how young people experience emotional struggles, why talking about suicide openly can save lives, and how communities can respond. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Hope Walks Here, a powerful event dedicated to awareness, support, and healing.  American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/Galveston 

In this episode of Focus Your Inner Bitch, Mary Bratton reflects on her travel adventures — from Rome to Mexico City — and the curious reality of always being mistaken for "from somewhere else." What begins as humorous cultural confusion unfolds into stories of broken tour buses, hitchhiked rides, daily bouquets from an embarrassed Italian guide, and the quiet advantage of not being immediately identified as American. It's a story about identity, language, adventure, and the confidence to move through the world on your own terms.

Most couples don't argue about socks on the floor — they argue about the emotional baggage they never unpacked. In this conversation, marriage counselor Christopher Times explains how childhood experiences, shame, temperament, and unregulated emotion quietly shape our relationships long before we say "I do." If you've ever wondered why small conflicts feel so big, this episode offers clarity, candor, and practical insight. https://agape-marriage-and-family-counseling-llc.b12sites.com/ 409-761-0076 [email protected]

In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, I sit down with Coach Kevin Voisin — entrepreneur, former elected official, and performance coach — whose journey from Louisiana oyster fisherman to helping thousands transform their lives is anything but conventional. We talk about failure, truth, ego, identity, and the surprising gap between success and fulfillment. If you've ever wondered whether you're living the life you were meant to live — or just checking someone else's boxes — this conversation will resonate. Contact Information: [email protected] Phone: 985-665-8495 Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itscoachkevin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachkevin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itscoachkevin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itscoachkevin/

What if psychedelics are not merely medicine — but sacrament? In this episode, I speak with Ayeh Kashani about the evolving philosophical and spiritual implications of psychedelics. Rather than viewing them strictly as medical interventions, we explore whether they function as sacrament — facilitating participation in a deeper reality. Our discussion spans science, metaphysics, transpersonal psychology, and the future of consciousness studies. It is an intellectually demanding — and deeply human — conversation. Instagram: @ayehkashani  Workshops & Breathwork: technologiesofthesacred.com https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7427895543969873920/ Workshops https://www.technologiesofthesacred.com/en/holotropic-workshops-and-events

In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, Jim sits down with Galveston-based psychedelic rock band India Tigers in Texas to talk about their creative process, recording philosophy, and the release of their latest vinyl album Dose.   And Here are Ticket Locations Thursday, 2/12 - Houston @ Dan Electros stubwire.com/e/37574/indiatigersintexasalbumreleasepartywflowergraves/danelectros Friday 2/13 - Galveston @ Old Quarter prekindle.com/find-tickets/id/-2852852648554029052;jsessionid=FC6C6BF344837BCA2FE4BEEB3FC511F3 Saturday 2/14 - Austin @ 13th Floor link.dice.fm/t79082cc3880?dice_id=t79082cc3880  

On this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, Jim sits down with Cora Moore, founder of Control + Create, to explore what happens when adults truly listen to young people. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in informal education and mentorship, Moore explains how safe spaces, creative collaboration, and long-term trust can transform lives. It's an insightful conversation about leadership, community responsibility, and preparing the next generation to thrive https://ctrlcreate.org/    +1 (832) 567-4692   [email protected]  

In this deeply personal episode, Jim Bratton sits down with his wife Mary on the occasion of their 45th wedding anniversary to explore the remarkable life she lived before they ever met. From cross-country road trips in unairconditioned cars, to sleeping under tarps in Yosemite, to solo corporate travel across the U.S. and abroad, Mary shares how curiosity, discipline, and determination shaped her independence. This episode is a candid, funny, and reflective conversation about travel, work, risk-taking, and what it means to intentionally live a full life—long before settling down.

In this deeply personal episode of Focus Your Inner Bitch: The Mary Bratton Story, Mary recounts a formative chapter of her early adulthood marked by manipulation, workplace danger, and emotional control. Through faith, hard boundaries, and raw self-reckoning, she ultimately confronts what she calls "the devil" and reclaims her life on her own terms. This is a powerful story about discernment, survival, and the lifelong strength that comes from standing up for yourself.

Jim and Mary Bratton settle in for a warm, off-the-cuff time capsule of teenage Houston. Mary tells the story of cousins as first friends—mischief, "wrapping" houses, and the rules of making it back to the getaway car. Then it's straight to the Pan American Ballroom ("the PA"): live bands, smoky air, underage dancing, and the mystery of the legendary orange Tommy. FYI-Orange Tommy A tiny orange drink passed hand-to-hand at the Pan American Ballroom—sweet, slightly mysterious, and forever linked to teenage freedom.    

This sound of surf was recorded December 9, 2025 at the 9 mile entrance point to the Galveston Beach.  Experience 27 uninterrupted minutes of natural Gulf of Mexico waves recorded on Galveston Island. This calming ocean soundscape is designed to help you relax, meditate, restore, or drift into a peaceful nap. No narration—just steady, soothing surf to ease your mind and body. Put your buds on for full experience. Please Enjoy! Best Regards, Jim Bratton

Prince Albert at Dickens on the Strand: History, Humor, and the Man Behind the Character Portraying Prince Albert at Dickens on the Strand, Joseph Machado steps into history with a blend of charm, humor, and deep knowledge of the Victorian era. In this conversation, we explore the real Albert's influence on technology, culture, and the industrial transformation of Britain—along with the unexpected legacy of his nine children and the Royal Christmas tree tradition. Finally, we step out of character to hear how Joseph came to embrace this role and what it means to bring living history to life on the streets of Galveston.

Mary takes us back to the late 1960s, fresh out of high school, when a spontaneous invitation leads her and two friends to the Mexico City Olympics. What starts as an exciting international trip turns into a week of unexpected moments—unlicensed chauffeurs, surprise Olympic tickets, and a family drama straight out of Cinderella. In this episode, Mary shares the humor, shock, and cultural lessons that shaped her early independence.

In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, Mary Bratton shares candid memories of growing up, dancing, and navigating life with resilience and humor. From eighth grade dances and parochial school adventures to overcoming polio and attending four senior proms, Mary's story is a celebration of perseverance and joy. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that proves you can always find your inner queen, no matter the challenges.

Join host Jim Bratton as he sits down with Bonnie Harmanson, founder of Love Jewel Treasure Treats, to discuss her journey from corporate life to building a thriving custom treat business in Galveston. Discover how Bonnie's creativity, community focus, and entrepreneurial spirit helped her carve out a unique niche serving both locals and tourists. Hear insights on finding your market, building a brand, and the power of consistency in small business success. https://lovejeweltreasuretreats.com/ Mailing Address: 6341 Stewart Road, Galveston, Texas 77551, United States Call 📞 or Text 1 (877) 670-2505

Jim Boone, Galveston Island's oldest active poet, shares his remarkable journey through decades of self-discovery, resilience, and creative expression. From growing up in McKinney, Texas, navigating family expectations, and serving in the Army, to finding his voice as a "proof of life" poet, Jim's story is both deeply personal and universally inspiring. In this episode, Jim reflects on the challenges and triumphs that shaped his poetry and his life, culminating in his signature poem, "Out on a Limb." https://www.facebook.com/jimboonepoetry?locale=ga_IE https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/seasons-by-the-sea/  

In this episode of The Jim Bratton Podcast, retired U.S. Army Colonel and attorney Lisa Windsor recounts her unexpected path from liberal law student to senior officer in the JAG Corps. With humor and candor, she discusses breaking barriers in a male-dominated field, the realities of military justice, and the lessons she carried into teaching leadership and ethics at the Army War College. The conversation closes with a provocative reflection on human evolution, conflict, and why "the hunters are still in charge."

In Episode 5 of Focus Your Inner Bitch, Mary Bratton revisits her elementary and high-school years, where early experiences with bias, tough teachers, and self-preservation shaped her confidence and independence. From being teased for her reading aloud to dancing alone at the eighth-grade dance, Mary's humor and resilience shine through. She also recalls her first jobs — from attic sweatshops to church bookkeeping — revealing how determination and grit defined her early path.

In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, I sit down with Chris Kritikos, a founder of Southwing Studio. Chris shares how they transformed a bedroom setup into a purpose-built, acoustically tuned recording space, now home to world-class equipment and full-service production. Along the way, he opens up about the lessons learned, the pitfalls musicians should avoid, and the real preparation needed before stepping into a studio.   https://southwingaudio.com/  

In this volume of The Jim Bratton Podcast, recording engineer and producer Chris Kritikos shares how he turned an empty acre into a fully tuned professional studio. From clearing land and framing a 60×40 steel building to battling reflections and fine-tuning acoustics, Chris offers a candid look at what really goes into building a purpose-built recording space. He also talks about his evolution from local bands to international projects and offers advice for anyone dreaming of creating their own studio.

https://www.visiongalveston.com/philanthrovision Daniel TorresEngage Galveston Manager [email protected]  

Licensed counselor and minister Christopher Times joins Jim Bratton to unpack the roots of anger — how it manifests, why it persists, and what practical tools can stop it from destroying relationships and careers. From "epigenetic" trauma passed through generations to simple de-escalation techniques, Times breaks down how to recognize and retrain emotional triggers. It's a conversation that's equal parts sobering, hopeful, and essential for anyone seeking more peace in daily life. 409-761-0076 [email protected] https://g.co/kgs/3Sf1cUg

In this candid and often hilarious fourth episode of Focus Your Inner Bitch, Mary Bratton shares stories from her early childhood in Houston — from her father's 30-mile bicycle courtship ride to her own unforgettable discovery involving a swing set pole. Through laughter and reflection, Mary reveals the resilience, humor, and faith that shaped her journey. Jim Bratton joins her in exploring how those early lessons built the fierce spirit behind her trademark honesty and grit.

Beach 10-06-25 h1e.mp3 by Jim Bratton

In this deeply personal episode of Focus Your Inner Bitch, Mary Bratton opens up about life after childhood polio — from clunky orthopedic shoes to the emotional scars that lingered long after recovery. Through humor, honesty, and grit, she reveals how resilience was forged in the face of ridicule and physical limitation. It's a story about acceptance, inner fire, and the power of saying, 'Get over it — and get on with life.'

In this episode, Jim Bratton sits down with Candy Hattingh, Jennifer De Ranieri and Makia Golladay to talk about Mortar Galveston — a 15-week entrepreneurship academy empowering residents to turn their ideas into thriving businesses. From DJ Cajun Spice's event brand to the Galveston Island Market's creative maker spaces, graduates share how Mortar gave them the structure and confidence to grow. Together, they reveal how accessible entrepreneurship can transform both individual lives and the wider Galveston community. Here are some important links: https://galvestonislandmarket.com/  https://wearemortar.com/galveston/ DJ CAYJUYN SPYCE https://www.djcayjuynspyce.net   Palm Tree Princess Productions  https://www.palmtreeprincessprod.net   Hustle Hour: Hustler Highlight ft Bernard Cunningham Jr. of BRYTE Apparel (September 2025) https://youtu.be/Jm_-GbaS_Ek

In this episode of The Jim Bratton Podcast, Jim sits down with Sarah Piel, director of Arts Downtown GTX, to explore how Galveston's arts and culture community is growing. Sarah shares how a nonprofit framework helps connect creators, businesses, and the local community. Their conversation reveals the vision of turning Galveston into one of the top ten arts destinations in the nation. https://www.artsdowntowngtx.com/ [email protected]

In this powerful episode, Mary Bratton recalls her childhood battle with polio and the lasting impact it had on her life. From iron lungs to treatments, her story is a raw reminder of what life was like before vaccines. Her words cut through today's debates with urgency: vaccines save lives, and those who doubt them ignore history at their own peril.

In the very first episode of Focus Your Inner Bitch, Jim Bratton sits down with his wife of 44 years, Mary Ellen Bratton, to explore the roots of her strength, resilience, and family legacy. From a chance remark that gave the series its name, to stories of Magnolia neighborhoods, ship channel struggles, and a heritage shaped by determination, Mary reflects on what it means to "find a way." This conversation uncovers generations of grit, faith, and creativity that built the foundation of her life. Episode 1 begins the journey of how Mary focused her inner bitch—and how that skill set continues to define her story. ·     

What began as a way to fund her lupus treatment grew into a thriving community hub for local vendors and artists. Jennifer De Ranieri shares her journey from baking muffins at pop-up markets to leading the Galveston Island Market, now a space where small businesses grow into brick-and-mortar shops. In this episode, she reveals the challenges, passion, and community spirit that keep the market thriving. https://galvestonislandmarket.godaddysites.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawM35kZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE3UTl4RWhhaGM3bTR4MHJVAR7_ELnbmUKizaGPAXTKKifaHQECz4siFtnhg6l4qdjm-dEPvavSMoHwmAcU6Q_aem_c75Jo8lXDbrnCxinhaTmew https://www.facebook.com/GalvestonIslandMarket/about Sept 20, 2025 Galveston Island Market: After Dark The market fun starts in the afternoon and keeps going after dark! Come explore and stroll PARK TO PARK - Hendley Green and Saengerfest Park... 3pm 9pm Hendley Green & Saengerfest Park 2028 The Strand & 2302    Jennifer De Ranieri is a dedicated advocate for small businesses with a diverse background in art, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship. A proud BOI (Born on the Island), Jennifer's academic journey began with an Associate of Applied Science in General Studies from Galveston College, followed by a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art with a minor in Art History from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Her passion for digital innovation led her to Full Sail University, where she earned a Master of Science in Digital Marketing, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA and receiving prestigious accolades including Valedictorian, two Course Director Awards, and Student of the Year.       In 2018, she channeled her entrepreneurial spirit into creating Muffin Tops Catering, a cottage food bakery celebrated for her family recipes and sculpted cakes that blend tradition with contemporary design. Her commitment to local business extended further when she inherited Galveston Island Market in March 2024, continuing her mission to support and enhance the local community.         Jennifer is also committed to helping small businesses thrive through her freelance digital marketing services. She offers tailored solutions that can fit within any budget, aiming to help businesses grow and reach their full potential. Through her ventures, Jennifer combines her artistic sensibility with digital marketing expertise to foster growth and creativity in the small business sector.

On this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, we sit down with Eduardo Hernandez, manager of the Texas Surf Museum in Galveston. Eduardo shares the surprising story of how Texas became home to a surf museum, its evolution from Corpus Christi, and what visitors discover inside. From skateboards to surfboards, and from nostalgia to community spirit, the museum captures the soul of surf culture on the Texas coast. https://thetexassurfmuseum.org https://www.instagram.com/surfmuseumtx/?hl=en  

In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, we sit down with artist Saralene Tapley, this month's featured Art Walk artist at The Proletariat. Saralene shares her artistic journey from Dublin to New York, exploring how training, experimentation, and intuition have shaped her expressive figure paintings. We discuss her creative process, influences, and the emotional resonance behind her latest body of work now on display. https://www.instagram.com/explore/search/keyword/?q=saralene%20tapley  

This episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast features Danielle Colombo from The Refillery in Galveston, a community space dedicated to reducing waste and promoting sustainable living. Danielle shares how the shop's refill program has kept more than 5,000 containers out of landfills, while also supporting local makers with small-batch soaps, body products, and upcycled clothing. https://sunsetrefillery.com/ [email protected]     phone: 979 202 1956 (responds faster to text or email) Sunset Market.    406 23rd (Tremont) St., Galveston, Tx 77550 We talk about creative fall workshops like broom-making and candle pouring, but the heart of the discussion centers on how everyday choices—refilling aftershave bottles, buying thrifted clothing reworked by local artists, and choosing reusable containers—add up to real impact. Danielle explains the philosophy behind upcycling, fast fashion alternatives, and why transparency in sourcing matters. If you've ever wondered how to cut down your own waste stream while supporting local artisans, this conversation offers simple, practical inspiration.

In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, I sit down with John Gu, creator of Galveston Walking Tour. John shares how his background in Houston tours and his experiences in Europe inspired him to bring a free, tip-based walking tour model to Galveston. We explore the unique approach and how visitors can experience the island in a fresh, interactive way. https://galvestonwalkingtour.com/ https://www.instagram.com/johnguiscool/ @walkingtourshouston    

At just 23, Neha is balancing the demanding life of a second-year medical student with her passion for songwriting and live performance. In this conversation, she shares the journey from writing raw, emotional one-liners in her diary to performing her original music on stage for the first time. From piano-based compositions to smooth on-stage transitions inspired by her church roots, Neha reveals how vulnerability and connection drive her artistry https://www.facebook.com/neha.jayarajan.395  

In the final episode of Locked Up, Robert Serna recounts the complex emotions and unexpected challenges of his release from prison. From the calm of a pre-release unit to the tense uncertainty of the last night inside, his journey home was anything but straightforward. Robert shares the reality of life after incarceration—where freedom begins, but obstacles remain.

In this powerful episode of Locked Up, Robert Serna shares a raw, first-person account of his encounters with the Texas prison medical system. From initial intake exams to emergency injuries and being denied basic care, Robert reveals a system defined more by neglect than compassion. His story exposes the harsh truth behind the myth of "free healthcare in prison."  

In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, we sit down with Galveston haberdasher Cruz Cortez, a man whose life and business have come full circle on the very block where he started in 1968. Cruz shares heartfelt stories from decades in retail, lessons in style and mentorship, and the power of persistence. His energy is contagious, his memory sharp, and his shop is more than just a store—it's a community institution Cruz Cortez Clothiers. 2227 Postoffice Street. Galveston, Texas 77550​. ​. (409) 763-9600 · [email protected]. https://www.instagram.com/askcruz/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/p/Cruz-Cortez-Clothiers-100040302559974/  

In this gripping episode of Locked Up, Robert Serna shares a raw, unfiltered look at the brutal reality of prison violence—from call-outs to calculated fights and the guards who enabled them. He reflects on how violence wasn't just expected but required. This is a powerful conversation about how prison life rewires behavior, scars memory, and forces a reckoning.