Jorge Samano, founder of Oak Cliff Bike Synergy, joins us to share his journey from growing up in Chihuahua, Mexico to pioneering mountain biking in northern Mexico, chasing dreams in London, and eventually finding a home in Oak Cliff. We talk about the heart he brings to his work, his belief that bikes are an extension of life itself, and how approachable service has helped him build a loyal community. Jorge reflects on the early days of mountain biking culture, the power of bikes to change lives, and the challenges and hopes for cycling in a car-centric city. Along the way, we explore how small acts of service can shape a neighborhood — and why creating space for cyclists matters more than ever.

Claudia Vega is a lifelong educator turned community builder, bookstore owner, and literary advocate. In this episode, she shares how growing up in Oak Cliff with educator parents instilled a love of books—and how that love became action. Claudia and her husband John co-founded Whose Books, a neighborhood bookstore committed to access, representation, and joy, and ARCO, a nonprofit that builds reading culture through book gifting, programming, and removing barriers to reading. We talk about the obstacles she faced launching a bookstore in a “book desert,” the community’s response, and why cultivating a culture of reading is about equity, not just literacy. Along the way, Claudia reflects on browsing as a lost art, the power of story time, and what it really takes to start something from scratch in the place you call home.

Vincent Holland is the co-founder of Oak Cliff Run Crew and the Say Less Project. In this episode, he shares how a need for connection after the pandemic sparked a Thursday night ritual that now draws hundreds to the bridge at Founders Park. We talk about building community from the ground up, staying rooted in consistency, and creating a space where everyone—from first-time walkers to seasoned marathoners—feels like they belong. Vincent also opens up about his personal journey with grief, the loss of his father, and how that led to the Say Less Project, a powerful mental health awareness run from Dallas to Austin. Through it all, Vincent reflects on what it means to run with purpose and lead with authenticity.We talk about journalism as a public service, the rise of nonprofit newsrooms, and the balancing act of writing for both the archives and the algorithm. Along the way, we dig into her coverage of the Belmont Hotel, navigating conspiracy brain, and why there's joy in hyperlocal journalism—even when you're writing about Southwest Airlines' baggage policy.

In this week's episode, we speak with Bettina Bennett, an entrepreneur, accidental technologist, and 30-year Oak Cliff resident, shares her journey from Germany to Texas and her love for the unique spirit of Oak Cliff. Bettina discusses her career milestones, including founding a technology company and initiating the Women in Technology Awards, and her commitment to community-driven change. From painting over graffiti to championing diversity, Bettina embodies the philosophy of questioning boundaries and taking small actions to make a significant impact. Tune in for an exploration of leadership, resilience, and the heart of a neighborhood that defines her identity.

In episode 11, we sit down with JR Huerta, founder of Dallas Youth Sports and District 1 representative on the Dallas Parks and Recreation Board. JR shares the journey of turning a small volunteer-run baseball program into a thriving multi-sport organization serving thousands of kids. We also dive into his work organizing Oak Cliff’s annual Mardi Gras parade, his commitment to family-led leadership, and the lasting impact of Dallas Youth Sports on generations of kids and their families.