https://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchenSociety & CultureCopyright City of Melissahttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/4aa9d52062328fc39f089e3e50d0b376.jpghttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchWed, 29 Jul 2026 20:00:53 +0000City of MelissaCity of Melissafeeds@spreaker.comThe American front porch represents the ideal of community in America. Just like on this community podcast, it’s where stories are celebrated. Welcome to The Front Porch – the official community podcast of Melissa, Texas. On every episode, we share...falseepisodichttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchSeason 4, Episode 18 of The Front Porch Podcast 

100 Episodes. Countless Stories. One Community.

Every community has a story, but it's the people who make it worth telling.

In this special 100th episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we look back on the journey that has brought us here with three familiar voices: City Manager Jason Little, Facilities Director and former Mayor Reed Greer, and Executive Director of Administrative Services Gail Dansby.

Together, they reflect on Melissa's remarkable growth over the past two decades, the culture that has made the community so special, and the people who have chosen to invest their lives in building something bigger than themselves. From a city of just a few employees to one of the fastest-growing communities in North Texas, they share the intentional decisions, partnerships, and servant leadership that have helped Melissa grow without losing its heart.

The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Jason opens up about one of the most difficult seasons of his life and how the kindness of this community changed him forever. It's a powerful reminder that Melissa isn't defined by its growth, its buildings, or its boundaries. It's defined by people who show up for one another.

After 100 episodes and more than 100 stories, one thing has become clear: the heart of Melissa has always been its people.

Thank you for being part of the journey. Here's to the next 100 stories.

Links:

Gail Dansby Podcast: Listen Now

Jason Little Podcast: Listen Now

Reed Greer Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73150156Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:44:08 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 18 of The Front Porch Podcast  100 Episodes. Countless Stories. One Community. Every community has a story, but it's the people who make it worth telling. In this special 100th episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we look back on...Season 4, Episode 18 of The Front Porch Podcast 

100 Episodes. Countless Stories. One Community.

Every community has a story, but it's the people who make it worth telling.

In this special 100th episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we look back on the journey that has brought us here with three familiar voices: City Manager Jason Little, Facilities Director and former Mayor Reed Greer, and Executive Director of Administrative Services Gail Dansby.

Together, they reflect on Melissa's remarkable growth over the past two decades, the culture that has made the community so special, and the people who have chosen to invest their lives in building something bigger than themselves. From a city of just a few employees to one of the fastest-growing communities in North Texas, they share the intentional decisions, partnerships, and servant leadership that have helped Melissa grow without losing its heart.

The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Jason opens up about one of the most difficult seasons of his life and how the kindness of this community changed him forever. It's a powerful reminder that Melissa isn't defined by its growth, its buildings, or its boundaries. It's defined by people who show up for one another.

After 100 episodes and more than 100 stories, one thing has become clear: the heart of Melissa has always been its people.

Thank you for being part of the journey. Here's to the next 100 stories.

Links:

Gail Dansby Podcast: Listen Now

Jason Little Podcast: Listen Now

Reed Greer Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2471bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citygovernment,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexasfalse418fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch
In this episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we sit down with Paul Anderson, President of the Melissa ISD School Board, to talk about his journey from moving to Melissa in 2007 to becoming one of the community's longest-serving leaders.

For the past 16 years, Paul has helped guide one of the fastest-growing school districts in North Texas, all while keeping the focus on what matters most: creating opportunities for students and preserving the culture that makes Melissa feel like home. He reflects on the tremendous growth our community has experienced, the importance of planning for future generations, and why strong partnerships between the school district, the City, and community organizations are essential to Melissa's continued success.

Beyond the boardroom, Paul's passion for serving others extends to the Melissa Sports Connection, where thousands of children each year have the opportunity to learn, compete, and grow through youth sports. Whether it's watching students walk across the graduation stage or seeing young athletes take the field for the first time, Paul believes every child deserves the chance to succeed.

Throughout the conversation, one message rises above the rest: Melissa's greatest strength isn't just its growth. It's the people who continue to invest in one another. As Paul shares, everyone here is rowing the boat in the same direction, working together to create the best possible future for the next generation.

If you've ever wondered what it takes to build a thriving community while holding on to its small-town values, this episode is one you won't want to miss.


Links:


Melissa ISD: Website

Melissa Sports Connection: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72879263Thu, 09 Jul 2026 02:06:20 +0000City of MelissaSome of the greatest impacts on a community happen behind the scenes. In this episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we sit down with Paul Anderson, President of the Melissa ISD School Board, to talk about his journey from moving to Melissa in 2007 to...
In this episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we sit down with Paul Anderson, President of the Melissa ISD School Board, to talk about his journey from moving to Melissa in 2007 to becoming one of the community's longest-serving leaders.

For the past 16 years, Paul has helped guide one of the fastest-growing school districts in North Texas, all while keeping the focus on what matters most: creating opportunities for students and preserving the culture that makes Melissa feel like home. He reflects on the tremendous growth our community has experienced, the importance of planning for future generations, and why strong partnerships between the school district, the City, and community organizations are essential to Melissa's continued success.

Beyond the boardroom, Paul's passion for serving others extends to the Melissa Sports Connection, where thousands of children each year have the opportunity to learn, compete, and grow through youth sports. Whether it's watching students walk across the graduation stage or seeing young athletes take the field for the first time, Paul believes every child deserves the chance to succeed.

Throughout the conversation, one message rises above the rest: Melissa's greatest strength isn't just its growth. It's the people who continue to invest in one another. As Paul shares, everyone here is rowing the boat in the same direction, working together to create the best possible future for the next generation.

If you've ever wondered what it takes to build a thriving community while holding on to its small-town values, this episode is one you won't want to miss.


Links:


Melissa ISD: Website

Melissa Sports Connection: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
]]>1076bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,collincounty,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissaisd,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,melissayouthsports,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,thingstodoinmelissa,youthsportsfalse417fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchSeason 4, Episode 16 of The Front Porch Podcast features Darren Thompson, who serves on the Melissa School Board and was an inaugural member of Leadership Melissa.

The people who shape our lives often never realize just how far their influence will reach.

From growing up in a family of educators to building a career as an IT Engineer for Toyota, Darren shares how his mother's passion for serving students inspired a lifelong commitment to giving back. What began around the family dinner table eventually led him to Melissa, where a simple question, "How can I help?", opened the door to serving both the school district and the community he now calls home.

Along the way, Darren reflects on why Melissa's schools first attracted his family, what he learned through Leadership Melissa, and why understanding how a community works is one of the best ways to become part of it.

This episode is a reminder that strong communities are built by people who care enough to get involved, invest in others, and leave things better than they found them.

Listen now for a conversation about education, leadership, service, and the ripple effect one person can have on an entire community.  

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72702965Fri, 26 Jun 2026 14:04:56 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 16 of The Front Porch Podcast features Darren Thompson, who serves on the Melissa School Board and was an inaugural member of Leadership Melissa. The people who shape our lives often never realize just how far their influence will...Season 4, Episode 16 of The Front Porch Podcast features Darren Thompson, who serves on the Melissa School Board and was an inaugural member of Leadership Melissa.

The people who shape our lives often never realize just how far their influence will reach.

From growing up in a family of educators to building a career as an IT Engineer for Toyota, Darren shares how his mother's passion for serving students inspired a lifelong commitment to giving back. What began around the family dinner table eventually led him to Melissa, where a simple question, "How can I help?", opened the door to serving both the school district and the community he now calls home.

Along the way, Darren reflects on why Melissa's schools first attracted his family, what he learned through Leadership Melissa, and why understanding how a community works is one of the best ways to become part of it.

This episode is a reminder that strong communities are built by people who care enough to get involved, invest in others, and leave things better than they found them.

Listen now for a conversation about education, leadership, service, and the ripple effect one person can have on an entire community.  

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1225bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,education,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,leadershipmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,schoolboard,toyotafalsefullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch
In this episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we sit down with Roberto and Katie Hern, owners of Hern's Pest Control and Hern's Pro Products, to talk about the journey that led them from Southern California to North Texas and from a simple observation in the pest control industry to becoming inventors with a patented product.

After nearly three decades in the pest control business, Roberto noticed a common problem in Texas homes that wasn't being addressed. What began as an idea developed in their kitchen eventually became a patented product designed to help homeowners protect their homes from pests. But bringing that idea to life wasn't easy.

Along the way, Roberto and Katie share the challenges, sacrifices, and unwavering faith that carried them through the process. They reflect on the importance of putting God first, family second, and community third, and how those values have shaped both their business and their lives.

The conversation also offers a glimpse into the partnership behind the success. Roberto credits Katie as the rock of their family and the person who encouraged him to pursue the idea when it was still just a dream. Katie shares her own commitment to serving others through her involvement in the community, church, and local schools.

This episode is a reminder that success isn't always measured by profits or patents. Sometimes it's measured by the people who stand beside you, the problems you're willing to solve, and the impact you're able to make along the way.

Listen now and hear the story of faith, family, perseverance, and a family's journey to turning an idea into reality.

Links:

Hern's Pest Control: Website

Hern's Pro Products: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72484592Thu, 11 Jun 2026 18:04:52 +0000City of MelissaWhat starts as an idea can sometimes grow into something much bigger. In this episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we sit down with Roberto and Katie Hern, owners of Hern's Pest Control and Hern's Pro Products, to talk about the journey that led them...
In this episode of The Front Porch Podcast, we sit down with Roberto and Katie Hern, owners of Hern's Pest Control and Hern's Pro Products, to talk about the journey that led them from Southern California to North Texas and from a simple observation in the pest control industry to becoming inventors with a patented product.

After nearly three decades in the pest control business, Roberto noticed a common problem in Texas homes that wasn't being addressed. What began as an idea developed in their kitchen eventually became a patented product designed to help homeowners protect their homes from pests. But bringing that idea to life wasn't easy.

Along the way, Roberto and Katie share the challenges, sacrifices, and unwavering faith that carried them through the process. They reflect on the importance of putting God first, family second, and community third, and how those values have shaped both their business and their lives.

The conversation also offers a glimpse into the partnership behind the success. Roberto credits Katie as the rock of their family and the person who encouraged him to pursue the idea when it was still just a dream. Katie shares her own commitment to serving others through her involvement in the community, church, and local schools.

This episode is a reminder that success isn't always measured by profits or patents. Sometimes it's measured by the people who stand beside you, the problems you're willing to solve, and the impact you're able to make along the way.

Listen now and hear the story of faith, family, perseverance, and a family's journey to turning an idea into reality.

Links:

Hern's Pest Control: Website

Hern's Pro Products: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1865bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,businesspodcast,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,faith,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissachamber,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusiness,texasedcfalse415fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchSeason 4, Episode 14 of The Front Porch Podcast features Anthony Obiselu, part owner of Yonx Pizza Bar & Co.  

Links:

Yonx Pizza Bar & Co: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72210395Thu, 28 May 2026 15:58:41 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 14 of The Front Porch Podcast features Anthony Obiselu, part owner of Yonx Pizza Bar & Co.   Links: Yonx Pizza Bar & Co: https://www.yonxpizza.com City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com Music:...Season 4, Episode 14 of The Front Porch Podcast features Anthony Obiselu, part owner of Yonx Pizza Bar & Co.  

Links:

Yonx Pizza Bar & Co: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1723bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,businessspotlight,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusiness,yonxpizzafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s4-e13-fc-cardinals-the-ultimate-goal--72019539Season 4, Episode 13 of The Front Porch Podcast features Cachelle and Puc Westrupp, the owners and operators of FC Cardinals Soccer Club in Melissa.

What started with a single team of 4-year-olds has grown into a program serving more than 200 kids across 14 teams, all built around one mission: putting kids first.

In this episode, Cachelle and Puc share why they saw opportunity in Melissa long before the growth arrived, how they’ve worked to make competitive soccer affordable for families through sponsorships and scholarships, and why creating quality young adults matters just as much as developing athletes.

From partnering with Melissa ISD and supporting Special Olympics to helping young players dream of one day competing in Melissa’s world-class high school stadium, FC Cardinals is focused on more than soccer.

They’re building community, friendships, and opportunities for local families. Listen as they talk about growth, family, affordability, and their ultimate goal of supporting Melissa students both on and off the field.

Links:

FC Cardinals: Website

FC Cardinals: Facebook

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72019539Fri, 15 May 2026 12:41:56 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 13 of The Front Porch Podcast features Cachelle and Puc Westrupp, the owners and operators of FC Cardinals Soccer Club in Melissa. What started with a single team of 4-year-olds has grown into a program serving more than 200 kids...Season 4, Episode 13 of The Front Porch Podcast features Cachelle and Puc Westrupp, the owners and operators of FC Cardinals Soccer Club in Melissa.

What started with a single team of 4-year-olds has grown into a program serving more than 200 kids across 14 teams, all built around one mission: putting kids first.

In this episode, Cachelle and Puc share why they saw opportunity in Melissa long before the growth arrived, how they’ve worked to make competitive soccer affordable for families through sponsorships and scholarships, and why creating quality young adults matters just as much as developing athletes.

From partnering with Melissa ISD and supporting Special Olympics to helping young players dream of one day competing in Melissa’s world-class high school stadium, FC Cardinals is focused on more than soccer.

They’re building community, friendships, and opportunities for local families. Listen as they talk about growth, family, affordability, and their ultimate goal of supporting Melissa students both on and off the field.

Links:

FC Cardinals: Website

FC Cardinals: Facebook

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1626bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypride,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissasports,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,northtexassoccer,soccer,soccerpodcast,youthsportsfalse413fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJamie and Seth Tilley to Melissa, Texas. They were traveling three days a week from their home in Richardson to attend First Melissa and spend time with Seth's dad. During those frequent visits, they started to fall in love with community, specifically the people. Then ... a seed was planted by one of Seth's friends that changed everything. That seed was watered by Jamie and Seth's entrepreneurial spirit and Cardinal Carriers Express was born, filling a huge void in the community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Jamie and Seth share their story, which is highlighted by their devout faith. #frontporch

Links:

Cardinal Carriers Express: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71590030Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:19:47 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 12: Faith led Jamie and Seth Tilley to Melissa, Texas. They were traveling three days a week from their home in Richardson to attend First Melissa and spend time with Seth's dad. During those frequent visits, they started to fall in...Jamie and Seth Tilley to Melissa, Texas. They were traveling three days a week from their home in Richardson to attend First Melissa and spend time with Seth's dad. During those frequent visits, they started to fall in love with community, specifically the people. Then ... a seed was planted by one of Seth's friends that changed everything. That seed was watered by Jamie and Seth's entrepreneurial spirit and Cardinal Carriers Express was born, filling a huge void in the community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Jamie and Seth share their story, which is highlighted by their devout faith. #frontporch

Links:

Cardinal Carriers Express: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1906bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypride,economicdevelopment,entrepreneurship,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusiness,thefrontporchfalse412fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchZach Stinton and Bruce Tyner love the game of football. They also love kiddos and Melissa, Texas. What do you do with all that love? You create Cardinal Nation Sports. On this episode of The Front Porch, these two passionate fathers talk about how and why they created this community's premier sports league. Cardinal Nation gives every kid in Melissa, Texas, the opportunity to play football or run track. That's all Zach and Bruce wanted to do - that has been their driving force since Day 1. But they also have a lofty shadow mission: Help Melissa High School win state championships for years to come. #frontporch

Links:

Cardinal Nation Sports: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71055878Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:22:02 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 11: Zach Stinton and Bruce Tyner love the game of football. They also love kiddos and Melissa, Texas. What do you do with all that love? You create Cardinal Nation Sports. On this episode of The Front Porch, these two passionate...Zach Stinton and Bruce Tyner love the game of football. They also love kiddos and Melissa, Texas. What do you do with all that love? You create Cardinal Nation Sports. On this episode of The Front Porch, these two passionate fathers talk about how and why they created this community's premier sports league. Cardinal Nation gives every kid in Melissa, Texas, the opportunity to play football or run track. That's all Zach and Bruce wanted to do - that has been their driving force since Day 1. But they also have a lofty shadow mission: Help Melissa High School win state championships for years to come. #frontporch

Links:

Cardinal Nation Sports: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2022bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,communitypodcast,communitypride,football,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissafootball,melissapodcast,melissasports,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtomelissa,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texastourism,texastravel,youthsportsfalse411fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s4-e10-santa-phil-ambassador-of-joy--70731023Phil Lytle – a.k.a. Santa Phil – has a heart for giving back in this community. That is kind of ironic to say, because his actual heart was the culprit behind this life-changing transformation. It was a health scare and a brush with death that inspired Santa Phil to start spreading joy across Melissa, Texas. Whether that's greeting customers at Ace Hardware, putting out flags for the Rotary Club or participating in one of the city's citizen's academies ... he's determined to be a light in this community. We even asked him if he thought he was a blessing to Melissa, Texas. Listen to this episode of The Front Porch to hear his drop-the-mic response. #frontporch

Links:

Ace Hardware Melissa: Website

Melissa Rotary: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70731023Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:31:40 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 10: Phil Lytle – a.k.a. Santa Phil – has a heart for giving back in this community. That is kind of ironic to say, because his actual heart was the culprit behind this life-changing transformation. It was a health scare and a brush...Phil Lytle – a.k.a. Santa Phil – has a heart for giving back in this community. That is kind of ironic to say, because his actual heart was the culprit behind this life-changing transformation. It was a health scare and a brush with death that inspired Santa Phil to start spreading joy across Melissa, Texas. Whether that's greeting customers at Ace Hardware, putting out flags for the Rotary Club or participating in one of the city's citizen's academies ... he's determined to be a light in this community. We even asked him if he thought he was a blessing to Melissa, Texas. Listen to this episode of The Front Porch to hear his drop-the-mic response. #frontporch

Links:

Ace Hardware Melissa: Website

Melissa Rotary: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1512acehardware,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,christmas,collincounty,communitypodcast,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtomelissa,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,santaclausefalse410fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchAshlee Palma had a tough decision to make when she was opening her own salon. She was living in Melissa, Texas, but starting her business down the road in McKinney was the safer bet. Ashlee decided to take a chance and get ahead of the wave in her new hometown. She opted to open The Society Salon and Boutique in Gateway Village last November, and she's starting to hit her stride. The community has embraced her business model, which revolves around creating community within community. This is a empowering conversation with a small business owner, wife, mom ... and soccer coach, who loves how this community shows up.  #frontporch

Links:


The Society Salon & Boutique: Website

Gateway Podcast – Ash & Sage Sauna Spa: Listen Now

Gateway Podcast – Deric Salser (developer): Listen Now

Gateway Podcast – Hope Coffee: Listen Now

Gateway Podcast – Pro Black Belt Academy: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70486095Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:16:10 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 9: Ashlee Palma had a tough decision to make when she was opening her own salon. She was living in Melissa, Texas, but starting her business down the road in McKinney was the safer bet. Ashlee decided to take a chance and get ahead...Ashlee Palma had a tough decision to make when she was opening her own salon. She was living in Melissa, Texas, but starting her business down the road in McKinney was the safer bet. Ashlee decided to take a chance and get ahead of the wave in her new hometown. She opted to open The Society Salon and Boutique in Gateway Village last November, and she's starting to hit her stride. The community has embraced her business model, which revolves around creating community within community. This is a empowering conversation with a small business owner, wife, mom ... and soccer coach, who loves how this community shows up.  #frontporch

Links:


The Society Salon & Boutique: Website

Gateway Podcast – Ash & Sage Sauna Spa: Listen Now

Gateway Podcast – Deric Salser (developer): Listen Now

Gateway Podcast – Hope Coffee: Listen Now

Gateway Podcast – Pro Black Belt Academy: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1938bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,businesspodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,smallbusiness,texasedc,thingstodoinmelissafalse49fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchTarnesha Nickens is a firecracker! That is said probably ten times on this episode of The Front Porch. After hearing her story and all the ways she is giving back in Melissa, Texas, you understand how fitting that title truly is. She gets stuff done, and her driving force revolves around legacy. During our conversation, she said: "Sometimes your legacy is not always with the next generation - with your children - it's what your handprint has left in the community that you're in." That one was one of many "drop the mic" moments on this episode. #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70148666Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:56:25 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 8: Tarnesha Nickens is a firecracker! That is said probably ten times on this episode of The Front Porch. After hearing her story and all the ways she is giving back in Melissa, Texas, you understand how fitting that title truly is....Tarnesha Nickens is a firecracker! That is said probably ten times on this episode of The Front Porch. After hearing her story and all the ways she is giving back in Melissa, Texas, you understand how fitting that title truly is. She gets stuff done, and her driving force revolves around legacy. During our conversation, she said: "Sometimes your legacy is not always with the next generation - with your children - it's what your handprint has left in the community that you're in." That one was one of many "drop the mic" moments on this episode. #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2067bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,givingback,givingheart,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,military,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texasedcfalse48fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s4-e7-father-fred-finding-faith-on-aisle-9--69811584Father Fred Caldwell is spreading the love of God across Melissa, Texas. And he's doing it in a very unique way. If you visit Kroger ... or WalMart ... or HEB in this community, there is a great chance you'll run into this 91-year-old Catholic priest. He'll be wearing one of his unique spiritual t-shirts, and he'll simply be visiting with people. He has no agenda, but when they find out he's a priest, the conversation usually turns spiritual. But this is only part of Father Fred's ministry. He has also launched a podcast and a video series, which teaches people how to read the Bible.  #frontporch

Links:

Soul Survivors Podcast: Listen Now 

Father Fred's Video Series: YouTube

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69811584Thu, 05 Feb 2026 14:27:53 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 7: Father Fred Caldwell is spreading the love of God across Melissa, Texas. And he's doing it in a very unique way. If you visit Kroger ... or WalMart ... or HEB in this community, there is a great chance you'll run into this...Father Fred Caldwell is spreading the love of God across Melissa, Texas. And he's doing it in a very unique way. If you visit Kroger ... or WalMart ... or HEB in this community, there is a great chance you'll run into this 91-year-old Catholic priest. He'll be wearing one of his unique spiritual t-shirts, and he'll simply be visiting with people. He has no agenda, but when they find out he's a priest, the conversation usually turns spiritual. But this is only part of Father Fred's ministry. He has also launched a podcast and a video series, which teaches people how to read the Bible.  #frontporch

Links:

Soul Survivors Podcast: Listen Now 

Father Fred's Video Series: YouTube

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1251bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bible,collincounty,communitypodcast,faith,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,kroger,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,spiritual,walmartfalse47fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchBrittany and Brian Shull are extra - in the most wonderfully great way. Everything they do is done full throttle, and the ripple effects they're creating across Melissa, Texas, are profound. On this episode of The Front Porch, Brittany and Brian discuss all the different ways they're giving back and supporting this community – whether that's through the youth football league or turning their front yard into a winter wonderland at Christmas. Spoiler Alert: There are countless number of "drop the mic moments" on this episode, because the Shulls are passionate about anything and everything Melissa, Texas.  #frontporch

Links:
Applied Torque Solutions: Website 

Cardinal Nation Sports: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69540180Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:30:08 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 6: Brittany and Brian Shull are extra - in the most wonderfully great way. Everything they do is done full throttle, and the ripple effects they're creating across Melissa, Texas, are profound. On this episode of The Front Porch,...Brittany and Brian Shull are extra - in the most wonderfully great way. Everything they do is done full throttle, and the ripple effects they're creating across Melissa, Texas, are profound. On this episode of The Front Porch, Brittany and Brian discuss all the different ways they're giving back and supporting this community – whether that's through the youth football league or turning their front yard into a winter wonderland at Christmas. Spoiler Alert: There are countless number of "drop the mic moments" on this episode, because the Shulls are passionate about anything and everything Melissa, Texas.  #frontporch

Links:
Applied Torque Solutions: Website 

Cardinal Nation Sports: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1673bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cardinalnation,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,communitysupport,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,givingback,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissafootball,melissapodcast,melissasports,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,thefrontporchfalse46fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchEricca Boone has only lived in Melissa, Texas, for six months, but she already has a heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get amazing perspective from someone who discovered exactly where she "should be," after spending a majority of her adult life in the Greater DFW area. Do you know what surprised her the most about Melissa, Texas? Listen and find out!  #frontporch

Links:


Hope Coffee Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69352983Thu, 08 Jan 2026 13:49:52 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 5: Ericca Boone has only lived in Melissa, Texas, for six months, but she already has a heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get amazing perspective from someone who discovered exactly where she "should...Ericca Boone has only lived in Melissa, Texas, for six months, but she already has a heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get amazing perspective from someone who discovered exactly where she "should be," after spending a majority of her adult life in the Greater DFW area. Do you know what surprised her the most about Melissa, Texas? Listen and find out!  #frontporch

Links:


Hope Coffee Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1333bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodallas,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,realestate,storytelling,texasedc,texasrealestate,thefrontporchfalse45fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchSgt. Bryan Kile has worked for the Melissa Police Department for 16 years, and his love for his department and this community runs deep. Throughout this episode of The Front Porch, Sgt. Kile references the strong culture across the city. It's evident how proud he is to work for the Melissa Police Department.

Reminder: Our shadow mission when visiting with city staff is to humanize them. They are real people serving this community. Sgt. Kile shares a couple things he loves to do when he's not wearing the badge. One of those pastimes involves "herding cats." #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Police Department: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69115993Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:48:15 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 4: Sgt. Bryan Kile has worked for the Melissa Police Department for 16 years, and his love for his department and this community runs deep. Throughout this episode of The Front Porch, Sgt. Kile references the strong culture across...Sgt. Bryan Kile has worked for the Melissa Police Department for 16 years, and his love for his department and this community runs deep. Throughout this episode of The Front Porch, Sgt. Kile references the strong culture across the city. It's evident how proud he is to work for the Melissa Police Department.

Reminder: Our shadow mission when visiting with city staff is to humanize them. They are real people serving this community. Sgt. Kile shares a couple things he loves to do when he's not wearing the badge. One of those pastimes involves "herding cats." #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Police Department: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1085bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissapolice,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtodfw,relocatingtotexas,texasedcfalse44fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchTyler Bark was born to work in parks and recreation. He watched his father work in that capacity of city government for most of his life. Then, Tyler got his own little taste of the parks and rec world while he was in college. That's when a legacy was born. Now, Tyler serves as the Parks and Recreation Manager for the City of Melissa. When we recorded this episode of The Front Porch, Tyler had only been on the job for 6 weeks, but he had already developed a love for this community, and he already had big plans for the Parks and Recreation Department.  #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Parks and Rec: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68855277Wed, 03 Dec 2025 18:40:54 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 3: Tyler Bark was born to work in parks and recreation. He watched his father work in that capacity of city government for most of his life. Then, Tyler got his own little taste of the parks and rec world while he was in college....Tyler Bark was born to work in parks and recreation. He watched his father work in that capacity of city government for most of his life. Then, Tyler got his own little taste of the parks and rec world while he was in college. That's when a legacy was born. Now, Tyler serves as the Parks and Recreation Manager for the City of Melissa. When we recorded this episode of The Front Porch, Tyler had only been on the job for 6 weeks, but he had already developed a love for this community, and he already had big plans for the Parks and Recreation Department.  #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Parks and Rec: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1591bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citygovernment,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypodcast,frontporch,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissastaff,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,parksandrecreation,relocatingtotexas,texastech,thefrontporchfalse43fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJon Underbrink gets the opportunity to give back in Melissa, Texas, in a very caffeinated way. As a shift supervisor at the Meilissa Starbucks from Day 1, it has been his mission to create positive ripple effects across this community - one cup of coffee at a time. On this episode of The Front Porch, Jon shares how he ended up in Melissa and waited patiently for the Starbucks to be built ... he talks about his 19-year career with Starbucks ... and he explains what he loves about this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Starbucks Coffee: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68549113Thu, 13 Nov 2025 04:43:28 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 2: Jon Underbrink gets the opportunity to give back in Melissa, Texas, in a very caffeinated way. As a shift supervisor at the Meilissa Starbucks from Day 1, it has been his mission to create positive ripple effects across this...Jon Underbrink gets the opportunity to give back in Melissa, Texas, in a very caffeinated way. As a shift supervisor at the Meilissa Starbucks from Day 1, it has been his mission to create positive ripple effects across this community - one cup of coffee at a time. On this episode of The Front Porch, Jon shares how he ended up in Melissa and waited patiently for the Starbucks to be built ... he talks about his 19-year career with Starbucks ... and he explains what he loves about this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Starbucks Coffee: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1650bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bestplacestowork,collincounty,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,starbucks,starbucksmelissa,texasedc,thefrontporchfalsefullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchAndrea and Scott Murray - owners of Ash & Sage Sauna Spa - have a simple goal. They want to create community through wellness. This power couple has taken an out-of-the-box wellness concept - which is emphasizes self-care and self-love - and started to make it come to life in the heart of this community. On the spa's Facebook page it says: "A sanctuary where you can elevate your wellness routine with contrast therapy & luxury hydrotherapy." On this episode of The Front Porch, Andrea and Scott share their story, they talk about where Ash & Sage originated and they discuss some of their biggest fears as their dream starts to become a reality.  #frontporch

Links:

Ash & Sage Sauna Spa: Website

Ash & Sage Sauna Spa: Facebook 

Hope Coffee Podcast: Listen Now

Gateway Village Podcast: LIsten Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68348222Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:55:59 +0000City of MelissaSeason 4, Episode 1: Andrea and Scott Murray - owners of Ash & Sage Sauna Spa - have a simple goal. They want to create community through wellness. This power couple has taken an out-of-the-box wellness concept - which is emphasizes self-care and...Andrea and Scott Murray - owners of Ash & Sage Sauna Spa - have a simple goal. They want to create community through wellness. This power couple has taken an out-of-the-box wellness concept - which is emphasizes self-care and self-love - and started to make it come to life in the heart of this community. On the spa's Facebook page it says: "A sanctuary where you can elevate your wellness routine with contrast therapy & luxury hydrotherapy." On this episode of The Front Porch, Andrea and Scott share their story, they talk about where Ash & Sage originated and they discuss some of their biggest fears as their dream starts to become a reality.  #frontporch

Links:

Ash & Sage Sauna Spa: Website

Ash & Sage Sauna Spa: Facebook 

Hope Coffee Podcast: Listen Now

Gateway Village Podcast: LIsten Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2019bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,health,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissabusiness,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusiness,thefrontporch,thingstodoinmelissa,wellnessfalse41fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchThe 601 Boutique is leaving its mark on Melissa, Texas. It has turned into the go-to place for Cardinals gear, and it has grown into a unique store-front. All of this is fueled by one family's love - for each other and the community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we sat down with Brittany Dyden and her mom, Michelle. They are the co-owners of The 601 Boutique. They share how they ended up in Melissa and how this entrepreneurial endeavor captured the heart of Cardinal Pride. #frontporch

Links:

The 601 Boutique: Facebook

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68167352Thu, 16 Oct 2025 16:56:50 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 26: The 601 Boutique is leaving its mark on Melissa, Texas. It has turned into the go-to place for Cardinals gear, and it has grown into a unique store-front. All of this is fueled by one family's love - for each other and the...The 601 Boutique is leaving its mark on Melissa, Texas. It has turned into the go-to place for Cardinals gear, and it has grown into a unique store-front. All of this is fueled by one family's love - for each other and the community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we sat down with Brittany Dyden and her mom, Michelle. They are the co-owners of The 601 Boutique. They share how they ended up in Melissa and how this entrepreneurial endeavor captured the heart of Cardinal Pride. #frontporch

Links:

The 601 Boutique: Facebook

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1393bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cardinalpride,collincounty,communitypride,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissabusiness,melissachamber,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,mississippi,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusinessfalse326fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchMark Stover is starting to become an expert in retirement. Over the years, this recent retiree has accumulated quotes, tips and tricks to create his own blueprint for life after the 9-to-5. Now, he wants to share his findings with other people and help them retire with grace and intentionality too. On this episode of The Front Porch, Mark tells his story, shares some of his retirement nuggets and talks about being retired in Melissa, Texas. He also shares his affinity for Meals on Wheels of Collin County. #frontporch

Links:

Meals on Wheels Podcast: Listen Now

Meals on Wheels Collin County: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67980778Thu, 02 Oct 2025 03:40:01 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 25: Mark Stover is starting to become an expert in retirement. Over the years, this recent retiree has accumulated quotes, tips and tricks to create his own blueprint for life after the 9-to-5. Now, he wants to share his findings...Mark Stover is starting to become an expert in retirement. Over the years, this recent retiree has accumulated quotes, tips and tricks to create his own blueprint for life after the 9-to-5. Now, he wants to share his findings with other people and help them retire with grace and intentionality too. On this episode of The Front Porch, Mark tells his story, shares some of his retirement nuggets and talks about being retired in Melissa, Texas. He also shares his affinity for Meals on Wheels of Collin County. #frontporch

Links:

Meals on Wheels Podcast: Listen Now

Meals on Wheels Collin County: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1981author,babyboomers,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,retirement,retirementtips,thefrontporchfalse325fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJerry Song has seen other North Texas communities grow up around him. He's spent time in Richardson and he currently lives in Frisco. But now, as the market president for Texas Republic Bank in Melissa, he's getting a front-row seat as this community starts to grow. On this episode of The Front Porch, Jerry discusses talks about his excitement for the growth, but he also discusses potential growing pains for Melissa. The big takeaway: Jerry is on the board for the Melissa Chamber of Commerce and he talks about the importance of everyone pulling in the same direction. #frontporch

Links:

Texas Republic Bank: Website

Melissa Chamber of Commerce: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67821513Fri, 19 Sep 2025 13:04:29 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 24: Jerry Song has seen other North Texas communities grow up around him. He's spent time in Richardson and he currently lives in Frisco. But now, as the market president for Texas Republic Bank in Melissa, he's getting a front-row...Jerry Song has seen other North Texas communities grow up around him. He's spent time in Richardson and he currently lives in Frisco. But now, as the market president for Texas Republic Bank in Melissa, he's getting a front-row seat as this community starts to grow. On this episode of The Front Porch, Jerry discusses talks about his excitement for the growth, but he also discusses potential growing pains for Melissa. The big takeaway: Jerry is on the board for the Melissa Chamber of Commerce and he talks about the importance of everyone pulling in the same direction. #frontporch

Links:

Texas Republic Bank: Website

Melissa Chamber of Commerce: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1600banking,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,communityspirit,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusinesspodcast,texasrepublicbankfalse324fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchRob Zschau is strengthening Melissa, Texas - literally and figuratively. He is the owner of Redigo Coaching, which is located in Downtown Melissa. His No. 1 goal is empower individuals navigating changes in their lives. He definitely has a heart for this community, which he has called home for almost 19 years. On this episode of The Front Porch, Rob shares his story of relocating to Texas, he talks about running a small business in Melissa and he reveals what he loves about this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Redigo Coaching: Website

Melissa Chamber of Commerce: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67626551Thu, 04 Sep 2025 02:51:02 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 23: Rob Zschau is strengthening Melissa, Texas - literally and figuratively. He is the owner of Redigo Coaching, which is located in Downtown Melissa. His No. 1 goal is empower individuals navigating changes in their lives. He...Rob Zschau is strengthening Melissa, Texas - literally and figuratively. He is the owner of Redigo Coaching, which is located in Downtown Melissa. His No. 1 goal is empower individuals navigating changes in their lives. He definitely has a heart for this community, which he has called home for almost 19 years. On this episode of The Front Porch, Rob shares his story of relocating to Texas, he talks about running a small business in Melissa and he reveals what he loves about this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Redigo Coaching: Website

Melissa Chamber of Commerce: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1670bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,fitness,frontporchmelissa,health,healthandwellness,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissachamber,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusiness,smallbusinessspotlight,thefrontporch,wellnessfalse323fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch Katie and Rendell Hendrickson - two people who have a heart for Melissa, Texas, and feel inclined to serve in the community they love. Rendell is on Melissa's City Council, while Katie is heavily involved with the organization Feed the Need. One of the most powerful parts of our conversation revolved around why they do what they do in regards to giving back.  

Besides our discussion on serving, Katie and Rendell share a couple lighthearted stories about relocating to Melissa from the Pacific Northwest.  #frontporch

Links:


City Council; Website

North Texas Feed the Need: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67478943Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:53:18 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 22: This is an engaging conversation with Katie and Rendell Hendrickson - two people who have a heart for Melissa, Texas, and feel inclined to serve in the community they love. Rendell is on Melissa's City Council, while Katie is... Katie and Rendell Hendrickson - two people who have a heart for Melissa, Texas, and feel inclined to serve in the community they love. Rendell is on Melissa's City Council, while Katie is heavily involved with the organization Feed the Need. One of the most powerful parts of our conversation revolved around why they do what they do in regards to giving back.  

Besides our discussion on serving, Katie and Rendell share a couple lighthearted stories about relocating to Melissa from the Pacific Northwest.  #frontporch

Links:


City Council; Website

North Texas Feed the Need: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2002bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,community,feedtheneed,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissacitycouncil,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtodfw,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,thefrontporchfalse322fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchEmeka Eluka is living and loving "the process." That's how he describes his time in Melissa, Texas. Driven by "grit, global roots and a whole lot of heart," Emeka has wrapped both of his arms around this community. He has fallen in love with Melissa, and he's paying to forward by getting involved and giving back. Early on in the conversation, he said that he'll be in Melissa forever.   #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67283609Thu, 07 Aug 2025 11:43:31 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 21: Emeka Eluka is living and loving "the process." That's how he describes his time in Melissa, Texas. Driven by "grit, global roots and a whole lot of heart," Emeka has wrapped both of his arms around this community. He has fallen...Emeka Eluka is living and loving "the process." That's how he describes his time in Melissa, Texas. Driven by "grit, global roots and a whole lot of heart," Emeka has wrapped both of his arms around this community. He has fallen in love with Melissa, and he's paying to forward by getting involved and giving back. Early on in the conversation, he said that he'll be in Melissa forever.   #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
]]>1490bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,storytelling,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse321fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchZeke Vest. This Melissa native is driven. He's smart and mature. He has an amazing work ethic. All of that has helped this young man build a successful lawn care service in this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Zeke shares the story of how Kid with a Cart Lawn Care got started ... he talks about all the people who have supported him ... and he discusses his plans to serve our country after graduating from Melissa High School.  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67098227Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:18:56 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 20: You won't meet many 16 year olds like Zeke Vest. This Melissa native is driven. He's smart and mature. He has an amazing work ethic. All of that has helped this young man build a successful lawn care service in this community. On...Zeke Vest. This Melissa native is driven. He's smart and mature. He has an amazing work ethic. All of that has helped this young man build a successful lawn care service in this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Zeke shares the story of how Kid with a Cart Lawn Care got started ... he talks about all the people who have supported him ... and he discusses his plans to serve our country after graduating from Melissa High School.  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1517bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,businesspodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,entrepreneurs,entrepreneurship,feelgoodstory,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissabusiness,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,thefrontporchfalse320fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchThe Front Porch. We'll get the opportunity to meet Brooke Carreker, co-founder and executive director of Rustic Way Ranch. Her "rollercoaster" story is rooted in faith, and it led her to a local couple that changed her life. Now, Brooke's organization, which she started with her husband, is creating profound ripple effects in the lives of young people. And it's all happening on 20 acres right here in Melissa, Texas.

The mission statement of Rustic Way Ranch: A place where the mental and emotional health of teens is enhanced through therapeutic horsemanship, professional counseling, nature-based experiences. RWR professionals are literally the boots on the ground - dedicated to blazing the trails that lead to hope and healing.  #frontporch

Links:


Rustic Way Ranch: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66925687Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:24:35 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 19: This is a powerful and impactful episode of The Front Porch. We'll get the opportunity to meet Brooke Carreker, co-founder and executive director of Rustic Way Ranch. Her "rollercoaster" story is rooted in faith, and it led her...The Front Porch. We'll get the opportunity to meet Brooke Carreker, co-founder and executive director of Rustic Way Ranch. Her "rollercoaster" story is rooted in faith, and it led her to a local couple that changed her life. Now, Brooke's organization, which she started with her husband, is creating profound ripple effects in the lives of young people. And it's all happening on 20 acres right here in Melissa, Texas.

The mission statement of Rustic Way Ranch: A place where the mental and emotional health of teens is enhanced through therapeutic horsemanship, professional counseling, nature-based experiences. RWR professionals are literally the boots on the ground - dedicated to blazing the trails that lead to hope and healing.  #frontporch

Links:


Rustic Way Ranch: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2396bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,equinetherapy,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,givingback,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,mentalhealth,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,nonprofit,rusticwayranch,teencounseling,teentherapy,therapyfalse319fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchGail Dansby has left it all on the field for the City of Melissa. She has worked for the city for 21 years, starting out in finance and moving into the role as Executive Administrative Services Director. Over the last two decades, her intense loyalty has been driven by her heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Gail shares her passion for Melissa and the unwavering  love for her job – especially the people she works with. Because of her impressive tenure with the city, we ask Gail to capture the heart and essence of Melissa, Texas. She gave us a heart-felt answer.  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66739093Wed, 25 Jun 2025 12:48:08 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 18: Gail Dansby has left it all on the field for the City of Melissa. She has worked for the city for 21 years, starting out in finance and moving into the role as Executive Administrative Services Director. Over the last two...Gail Dansby has left it all on the field for the City of Melissa. She has worked for the city for 21 years, starting out in finance and moving into the role as Executive Administrative Services Director. Over the last two decades, her intense loyalty has been driven by her heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Gail shares her passion for Melissa and the unwavering  love for her job – especially the people she works with. Because of her impressive tenure with the city, we ask Gail to capture the heart and essence of Melissa, Texas. She gave us a heart-felt answer.  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1335bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,thefrontporchfalse318fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s3-e17-joey-mitnick-cutting-to-the-heart-of-community--66547104Joey Mitnick is cutting to the heart of Melissa, Texas - literally. He is the owner of Buffalo Joe's Barber Lounge in Melissa, and he's excited for his small business to be a cornerstone of this community. Joey firmly believes that a barber shop has the potential to positvely impact the community it serves. He'll be quick to tell you ... it's more than just a place to get your haircut. On this episode of The Front Porch, Joey share his story, reveals his heart for Melissa and discusses the bold impact he wants to have on this community. There is a very cool energy and vibe to this conversation.  #frontporch

Links:

Buffalo Joe's Barber Lounge: Facebook

Buffalo Joe's Barber Lounge: Squire

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66547104Fri, 13 Jun 2025 12:28:01 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 17: Joey Mitnick is cutting to the heart of Melissa, Texas - literally. He is the owner of Buffalo Joe's Barber Lounge in Melissa, and he's excited for his small business to be a cornerstone of this community. Joey firmly believes...Joey Mitnick is cutting to the heart of Melissa, Texas - literally. He is the owner of Buffalo Joe's Barber Lounge in Melissa, and he's excited for his small business to be a cornerstone of this community. Joey firmly believes that a barber shop has the potential to positvely impact the community it serves. He'll be quick to tell you ... it's more than just a place to get your haircut. On this episode of The Front Porch, Joey share his story, reveals his heart for Melissa and discusses the bold impact he wants to have on this community. There is a very cool energy and vibe to this conversation.  #frontporch

Links:

Buffalo Joe's Barber Lounge: Facebook

Buffalo Joe's Barber Lounge: Squire

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1603barbershops,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,businesspodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,entrepreneur,entrepreneurship,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,smallbusiness,thefrontporchfalse317fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchTammy Osburn Oveross does not live in Melissa, Texas. She doesn't work in Melissa either. But she is the perfect guest for this episode of The Front Porch, because her roots run deep in this community, and Tammy Oveross loves family, history and legacy. During our conversation, Tammy shares stories of her family in Melissa, and she discusses her first published children's book, Cucumbers to Pickles. She'll also explain why family history is so important to her. #frontporch

Links:

Cucumbers to Pickles: Amazon

Podcast: Parris Hill Farm and Ranch: Listen Now 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66325826Thu, 29 May 2025 12:22:27 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 16: Published author Tammy Osburn Oveross does not live in Melissa, Texas. She doesn't work in Melissa either. But she is the perfect guest for this episode of The Front Porch, because her roots run deep in this community, and Tammy...Tammy Osburn Oveross does not live in Melissa, Texas. She doesn't work in Melissa either. But she is the perfect guest for this episode of The Front Porch, because her roots run deep in this community, and Tammy Oveross loves family, history and legacy. During our conversation, Tammy shares stories of her family in Melissa, and she discusses her first published children's book, Cucumbers to Pickles. She'll also explain why family history is so important to her. #frontporch

Links:

Cucumbers to Pickles: Amazon

Podcast: Parris Hill Farm and Ranch: Listen Now 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1675bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,childrensbookauthor,collincounty,communitypodcast,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,heartofmelissa,legacy,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,selfpublishing,storytelling,thefrontporch,writingfalse316fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJake Evans now calls Melissa, Texas, home. He loves this community, but it's his communities within the community that are starting to create impactful ripple effects - whether that's at his church, in his neighborhood or in his book club. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll discuss Rise of the Oceanborn, Jake's book ... we'll talk about how he ended up in Melissa ... and he'll share his heart for this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Rise of the Oceanborn: Amazon

Rise of the Oceanborn: Audible

Podcast: Melissa Farmer's Market: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66085526Wed, 14 May 2025 14:54:42 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 15: Published author Jake Evans now calls Melissa, Texas, home. He loves this community, but it's his communities within the community that are starting to create impactful ripple effects - whether that's at his church, in his...Jake Evans now calls Melissa, Texas, home. He loves this community, but it's his communities within the community that are starting to create impactful ripple effects - whether that's at his church, in his neighborhood or in his book club. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll discuss Rise of the Oceanborn, Jake's book ... we'll talk about how he ended up in Melissa ... and he'll share his heart for this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Rise of the Oceanborn: Amazon

Rise of the Oceanborn: Audible

Podcast: Melissa Farmer's Market: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1511bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bookpodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,fantasybooks,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,heartofmelissa,howtowriteabook,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,texastravel,thefrontporchfalse315fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchCaitlin Trahan and Britney West. These two stay-at-home moms wanted to restart the farmer's market, and it has grown into so much more. These two sisters have built a community within a community. How did they do it? Again ... love and passion for small businesses in this community! 

Want to experience Melissa Farmer's Market for yourself? First, listen to this episode of The Front Porch. Then, make your way to City Hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday (or next Saturday ... or the Saturday after that).  #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Farmers Market: Facebook

Melissa Farmers Market: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65807200Wed, 30 Apr 2025 13:52:40 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 14: The Melissa Farmer's Market is alive again - and it's thriving! That is thanks to the love and passion of Caitlin Trahan and Britney West. These two stay-at-home moms wanted to restart the farmer's market, and it has grown into...Caitlin Trahan and Britney West. These two stay-at-home moms wanted to restart the farmer's market, and it has grown into so much more. These two sisters have built a community within a community. How did they do it? Again ... love and passion for small businesses in this community! 

Want to experience Melissa Farmer's Market for yourself? First, listen to this episode of The Front Porch. Then, make your way to City Hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday (or next Saturday ... or the Saturday after that).  #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Farmers Market: Facebook

Melissa Farmers Market: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1696bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,farmersmarket,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissafarmersmarket,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,texasedc,texastravel,thefrontporch,thingstodoinmelissa,visitingmelissafalsefullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchRachel and Lance Buckley moved to Melissa, Texas, in 2019, they found exactly what they were looking for. But there is more to the story, because Lance Buckley - now a member of the Melissa Police Department - initially had his doubts. But in his defense, he was napping when his wife took intentional action to find a house in this unfamiliar community and start writing the next chapter in their family's journey. It's a heartwarming story that evolves into the best decision this family ever made. Now, Rachel and Lance have a heart for Melissa, and it's shining through in everything they do. #frontporch

Links:

The Red Feather: Website

Rachel Buckley Podcast: Listen Now

Melissa Police Department: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65593396Wed, 16 Apr 2025 14:53:36 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 13: When Rachel and Lance Buckley moved to Melissa, Texas, in 2019, they found exactly what they were looking for. But there is more to the story, because Lance Buckley - now a member of the Melissa Police Department - initially had...Rachel and Lance Buckley moved to Melissa, Texas, in 2019, they found exactly what they were looking for. But there is more to the story, because Lance Buckley - now a member of the Melissa Police Department - initially had his doubts. But in his defense, he was napping when his wife took intentional action to find a house in this unfamiliar community and start writing the next chapter in their family's journey. It's a heartwarming story that evolves into the best decision this family ever made. Now, Rachel and Lance have a heart for Melissa, and it's shining through in everything they do. #frontporch

Links:

The Red Feather: Website

Rachel Buckley Podcast: Listen Now

Melissa Police Department: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1870bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchpodcast,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissapolice,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse313fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchMarcial Marichalar put on his shorty shorts, boots and cowboy hat to run through the snowy streets of Melissa in 2019, he never imagined the impact it would have on his community. He just wanted to make people smile. That's really all Marcial wants to do in every aspect of his life. During our sitdown conversation, he even said: "I want to bring the energy and make people smile." On this episode of The Front Porch, we find out why this is so important to Marcial. This is a heartfelt and inspiring episode.  #frontporch

Links:

Marcial Marichalar on IG: Follow

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65349872Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:57:15 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 12: When Marcial Marichalar put on his shorty shorts, boots and cowboy hat to run through the snowy streets of Melissa in 2019, he never imagined the impact it would have on his community. He just wanted to make people smile. That's...Marcial Marichalar put on his shorty shorts, boots and cowboy hat to run through the snowy streets of Melissa in 2019, he never imagined the impact it would have on his community. He just wanted to make people smile. That's really all Marcial wants to do in every aspect of his life. During our sitdown conversation, he even said: "I want to bring the energy and make people smile." On this episode of The Front Porch, we find out why this is so important to Marcial. This is a heartfelt and inspiring episode.  #frontporch

Links:

Marcial Marichalar on IG: Follow

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1467behappy,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,findthebeauty,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,mentalhealth,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,storytelling,thefrontporch,viralvideo,yourenotalonefalse312fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJennifer Nehls has an incredible story, because for the last nine years she has worked at the Melissa Public Library. Her plan going into college was to be a marine geoscientist. Now, she's the Library Director in Melissa. After sitting down and visiting with her, it's kind of hard to imagine her doing anything else, because Jennifer has a genuine heart for library services. She understands that it's more than books on a shelf. She'll quickly tell you that a library is a community within a community, and it's her mission to get the Melissa Public Library outside its walls. This is an engaging conversation with a woman who loves her job and the community she serves. #frontporch

Links:


Melissa Public Library: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64993302Thu, 20 Mar 2025 12:49:51 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 11: It's ironic that Jennifer Nehls has an incredible story, because for the last nine years she has worked at the Melissa Public Library. Her plan going into college was to be a marine geoscientist. Now, she's the Library Director...Jennifer Nehls has an incredible story, because for the last nine years she has worked at the Melissa Public Library. Her plan going into college was to be a marine geoscientist. Now, she's the Library Director in Melissa. After sitting down and visiting with her, it's kind of hard to imagine her doing anything else, because Jennifer has a genuine heart for library services. She understands that it's more than books on a shelf. She'll quickly tell you that a library is a community within a community, and it's her mission to get the Melissa Public Library outside its walls. This is an engaging conversation with a woman who loves her job and the community she serves. #frontporch

Links:


Melissa Public Library: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1384bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,frontporchmelissa,libraryservices,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissalibrary,melissapodcast,melissapubliclibrary,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,powerofstory,storytelling,texaseconomicdevelopment,texastravel,thefrontporchfalse311fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s3-e10-jennifer-clark-from-resident-to-former-city-councilmember--64705693 #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
show less]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64705693Wed, 05 Mar 2025 04:12:00 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 10: Jennifer Clark moved to Melissa, Texas, in 2019. She instantly fell in love with her new community. It didn't take her long to become very curious, too. So, she decided to scratch that curiosity itch by getting involved. It... #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
show less]]>1780bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,downtownmelissa,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchpodcast,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,texasedc,thefrontporch,thingstodoinmelissafalse310fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchSeason 3, Episode 9: Amy Mathews has a pretty intimidating title. She is the Development Services Director for the City of Melissa. But don’t be scared by her position with the city. This is an engaging episode that really captures how Melissa is growing - from the new grocery stores to the new downtown area. The Development Services Director plays a vital role in that process. Amy Mathews is new to Melissa, but she brings years of experience from other North Texas communities, and she already has a heart for Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch


Podcast - Tyler Brewer: Listen Now

Podcast - Terrell Smith (Asst. City Manager): Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64477675Thu, 20 Feb 2025 16:57:26 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 9: Amy Mathews has a pretty intimidating title. She is the Development Services Director for the City of Melissa. But don’t be scared by her position with the city. This is an engaging episode that really captures how Melissa is...Season 3, Episode 9: Amy Mathews has a pretty intimidating title. She is the Development Services Director for the City of Melissa. But don’t be scared by her position with the city. This is an engaging episode that really captures how Melissa is growing - from the new grocery stores to the new downtown area. The Development Services Director plays a vital role in that process. Amy Mathews is new to Melissa, but she brings years of experience from other North Texas communities, and she already has a heart for Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch


Podcast - Tyler Brewer: Listen Now

Podcast - Terrell Smith (Asst. City Manager): Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1747bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,hebgrocery,kroger,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse39fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchSeason 3, Episode 8: Terrell Smith has only been on the job in Melissa, Texas, for a few months, but the new assistant city manager already has a heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Terrell Smith shares his story, talks about how he ended up in Melissa and he explains what an Assistant City Manager actually does. He also shares his perspective and experience in other communities, and how the City of Melissa can use that as an asset as it continues to grow. #thefrontporch

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64229741Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:40:45 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 8: Terrell Smith has only been on the job in Melissa, Texas, for a few months, but the new assistant city manager already has a heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Terrell Smith shares his story, talks about...Season 3, Episode 8: Terrell Smith has only been on the job in Melissa, Texas, for a few months, but the new assistant city manager already has a heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Terrell Smith shares his story, talks about how he ended up in Melissa and he explains what an Assistant City Manager actually does. He also shares his perspective and experience in other communities, and how the City of Melissa can use that as an asset as it continues to grow. #thefrontporch

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1861bestbestplacestoliveintexas,bestplacestoliveindfw,citygovernment,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,storytelling,sugarlandtexas,texasedcfalse38fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchSeason 3, Episode 7: Growing up in different metropolitan cities, Katy Vendetti never planted roots. After moving to Texas and becoming a mom ... that's all she wanted to do. Spoiler Alert: She quickly made that happen in Melissa, Texas. How did she do it? It all began at McKillop Elementary. She started out volunteering as a room mom, and now she's on the board for the school's PTO, co-chairing the organization's one-and-only fundraising event. The best part of Katy Vendetti's story ... she is absolutely loving it and those roots are firmly planted.  #thefrontporch

McKillop PTO: Website

Melissa ISD: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63823308Wed, 22 Jan 2025 20:37:58 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 7: Growing up in different metropolitan cities, Katy Vendetti never planted roots. After moving to Texas and becoming a mom ... that's all she wanted to do. Spoiler Alert: She quickly made that happen in Melissa, Texas. How did she...Season 3, Episode 7: Growing up in different metropolitan cities, Katy Vendetti never planted roots. After moving to Texas and becoming a mom ... that's all she wanted to do. Spoiler Alert: She quickly made that happen in Melissa, Texas. How did she do it? It all began at McKillop Elementary. She started out volunteering as a room mom, and now she's on the board for the school's PTO, co-chairing the organization's one-and-only fundraising event. The best part of Katy Vendetti's story ... she is absolutely loving it and those roots are firmly planted.  #thefrontporch

McKillop PTO: Website

Melissa ISD: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1585bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,education,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,givingback,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissapto,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,philanthropy,storytellingfalse37fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchThe Front Porch, we sat down with two Meals on Wheels rock stars - Queen Ellison and Shannon Revels. Both of these amazing women have a heart for giving back, especially giving back to the elderly across the county. Think you know about Meals on Wheels? I bet you learn a few powerful things about the organization just listening to this episode, including the fact the local agency distributes 2,200 meals a day!  #thefrontporch

Meals on Wheels - Collin County: Website

Want to Volunteer? Get Involved

Need Assistance? Get Help 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63617216Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:08:20 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 6: Meals on Wheels of Collin County is creating ripple effects in Melissa, Texas (not to mention the other 26 cities across the county.) On this episode of The Front Porch, we sat down with two Meals on Wheels rock stars - Queen...The Front Porch, we sat down with two Meals on Wheels rock stars - Queen Ellison and Shannon Revels. Both of these amazing women have a heart for giving back, especially giving back to the elderly across the county. Think you know about Meals on Wheels? I bet you learn a few powerful things about the organization just listening to this episode, including the fact the local agency distributes 2,200 meals a day!  #thefrontporch

Meals on Wheels - Collin County: Website

Want to Volunteer? Get Involved

Need Assistance? Get Help 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1714bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypride,economicdevelopment,elderlycare,frontporch,givingback,lovewhereyoulive,mealsonwheels,mealsonwheelscollincounty,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodallas,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,thefrontporchfalse36fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJudy Lewis Smith, but I promise you know exactly who she is. You just know her as "Braum's Granny," and she has probably put a smile on your face with her heart-felt and genuine Facebook posts. Maybe she was sharing a creative recipe using Braum's jalapeno dip, or giving her two cents about orange yogurt. Regardless, there is no doubt that she's provided a little light, hope and kindness in this sometimes dark world. Why does Judy - Braum's Granny - start doing this? Listen to this episode to find out.  #thefrontporch

We Are Melissa: Facebook Page

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63392786Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:22:01 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 5: If you live in Melissa, Texas, you might not know the name Judy Lewis Smith, but I promise you know exactly who she is. You just know her as "Braum's Granny," and she has probably put a smile on your face with her heart-felt and...Judy Lewis Smith, but I promise you know exactly who she is. You just know her as "Braum's Granny," and she has probably put a smile on your face with her heart-felt and genuine Facebook posts. Maybe she was sharing a creative recipe using Braum's jalapeno dip, or giving her two cents about orange yogurt. Regardless, there is no doubt that she's provided a little light, hope and kindness in this sometimes dark world. Why does Judy - Braum's Granny - start doing this? Listen to this episode to find out.  #thefrontporch

We Are Melissa: Facebook Page

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1959bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,braums,cityofmelissa,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,feelgoodstory,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texasedcfalse35fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch It's all about community and giving back for Steve Zeigler, owner of Mountain Mike's Pizza in Melissa, Texas. That's why he opened his very first Jersey Mike's. That's why he opened five more locations of the popular sandwich shop in North Texas. And that's why he jumped into the world of pizza and opened a restaurant in Melissa. Along with his son, Steve is leaving a mark on Melissa - providing yummy pizza in a family-friendly environment and creating ripple effects with his giving heart. On this episode of The Front Porch, Steve Zeigler shares his story, including the profound advice from his father that changed his life. #thefrontporch 

Mountain Mike's Pizza: Website

Mountain Mike's on Facebook: Facebook

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63164619Thu, 05 Dec 2024 12:32:31 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 4: It's all about community and giving back for Steve Zeigler, owner of Mountain Mike's Pizza in Melissa, Texas. That's why he opened his very first Jersey Mike's. That's why he opened five more locations of the popular sandwich shop... It's all about community and giving back for Steve Zeigler, owner of Mountain Mike's Pizza in Melissa, Texas. That's why he opened his very first Jersey Mike's. That's why he opened five more locations of the popular sandwich shop in North Texas. And that's why he jumped into the world of pizza and opened a restaurant in Melissa. Along with his son, Steve is leaving a mark on Melissa - providing yummy pizza in a family-friendly environment and creating ripple effects with his giving heart. On this episode of The Front Porch, Steve Zeigler shares his story, including the profound advice from his father that changed his life. #thefrontporch 

Mountain Mike's Pizza: Website

Mountain Mike's on Facebook: Facebook

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2279bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,foodie,foodiepodcast,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissarestaurant,melissatexas,melissatx,mountainmikes,mountainmikespizza,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,placestoeatinmelissa,relocatingtotexasfalse34fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch Sebastien Leitz wants to put Melissa, Texas, on the map, and he wants to do it one young athlete at a time. This former collegiate tennis player, who is co-owner of The Athlete Group, is helping turn up the knob on youth sports and training in this community. The approach at TAG is develop the athlete and then provide the best coaching in the world, based on their sport of choice. On this episode of The Front Porch, Sebastien tells his story, talks about his vision for youth sports in Melissa and he shares his heart for this community. #thefrontporch 


The Athlete Group: Website

Melissa Sports: Website

Podcast - Doug Zadow: Listen Now

Podcast - Z-Plex: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62954941Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:55:39 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 3: Sebastien Leitz wants to put Melissa, Texas, on the map, and he wants to do it one young athlete at a time. This former collegiate tennis player, who is co-owner of The Athlete Group, is helping turn up the knob on youth sports... Sebastien Leitz wants to put Melissa, Texas, on the map, and he wants to do it one young athlete at a time. This former collegiate tennis player, who is co-owner of The Athlete Group, is helping turn up the knob on youth sports and training in this community. The approach at TAG is develop the athlete and then provide the best coaching in the world, based on their sport of choice. On this episode of The Front Porch, Sebastien tells his story, talks about his vision for youth sports in Melissa and he shares his heart for this community. #thefrontporch 


The Athlete Group: Website

Melissa Sports: Website

Podcast - Doug Zadow: Listen Now

Podcast - Z-Plex: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1781bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,coaching,collincounty,communitypodcast,dfwsoccer,dfwtennis,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,personaltraining,youthsports,youthtrainingfalse33fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch On this episode of The Front Porch, we share a conversation between Mayor Jay Northcut and community advocate Doug Zadow. Both of these gentlemen have been on the podcast before, but this particular episode will highlight their sit-down conversation about the Z-Plex. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding the state-of-the-art complex and the vision of the world-class facility.  #thefrontporch 


Complete Conversation: Watch Video

Melissa Sports: Website

Podcast - Lynn Vanlandingham (Five Tool Baseball): Listen Now

Podcast - Mike Demsky (Doug Out Sports Grill): Listen Now

Podcast - Doug Zadow: Listen Now

Podcast - Mayor Jay Northcut: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62643685Wed, 06 Nov 2024 20:04:40 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 2: On this episode of The Front Porch, we share a conversation between Mayor Jay Northcut and community advocate Doug Zadow. Both of these gentlemen have been on the podcast before, but this particular episode will highlight their... On this episode of The Front Porch, we share a conversation between Mayor Jay Northcut and community advocate Doug Zadow. Both of these gentlemen have been on the podcast before, but this particular episode will highlight their sit-down conversation about the Z-Plex. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding the state-of-the-art complex and the vision of the world-class facility.  #thefrontporch 


Complete Conversation: Watch Video

Melissa Sports: Website

Podcast - Lynn Vanlandingham (Five Tool Baseball): Listen Now

Podcast - Mike Demsky (Doug Out Sports Grill): Listen Now

Podcast - Doug Zadow: Listen Now

Podcast - Mayor Jay Northcut: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1779bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissasports,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,selectsports,texasedc,texastravel,travelsports,youthbaseball,youthsportsfalse32fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch Incredible ripple effects are being felt across Melissa, Texas, and the local Rotary Club is the catalyst behind a lot of it. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll focus on a this impactful organization. We'll tell the Rotary Club’s story through the stories of three dedicated Rotarians. On this episode, we’ll hear from John Cave, past president of the Melissa Rotary Club … Ken Truax, who joined the Rotary Club in 2022 … and Mary Grubbs, the current chapter president. #thefrontporch 


Melissa Rotary Club: Website

Melissa Rotary Club: Facebook Page

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62475558Wed, 23 Oct 2024 16:16:37 +0000City of MelissaSeason 3, Episode 1: Incredible ripple effects are being felt across Melissa, Texas, and the local Rotary Club is the catalyst behind a lot of it. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll focus on a this impactful organization. We'll tell the Rotary... Incredible ripple effects are being felt across Melissa, Texas, and the local Rotary Club is the catalyst behind a lot of it. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll focus on a this impactful organization. We'll tell the Rotary Club’s story through the stories of three dedicated Rotarians. On this episode, we’ll hear from John Cave, past president of the Melissa Rotary Club … Ken Truax, who joined the Rotary Club in 2022 … and Mary Grubbs, the current chapter president. #thefrontporch 


Melissa Rotary Club: Website

Melissa Rotary Club: Facebook Page

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1827bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,communityimpact,communitypodcast,frontporch,frontporchpodcast,givingback,melissa,melissapodcast,melissarotary,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,philanthropy,rotaryclub,rotaryinternational,sliceoflife,storytelling,thefrontporchfalse31fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJohn Duscio, assistant police chief in Melissa, doesn't live in the community he serves, and he hasn't worked here very long. That doesn't matter. This long-time public servant already has a heart for Melissa, Texas. He also has an excitement for this community as it really starts to grow. Assistant Chief Duscio is excited because he's lived through this before in McKinney and Wylie. On this episode of The Front Porch, he shares his advice on growing the right way. (His passion for public service is also showcased.) #thefrontporch 


Melissa Police Department: Website

Chief Stokes Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62299135Wed, 09 Oct 2024 13:09:09 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 24: John Duscio, assistant police chief in Melissa, doesn't live in the community he serves, and he hasn't worked here very long. That doesn't matter. This long-time public servant already has a heart for Melissa, Texas. He also has...John Duscio, assistant police chief in Melissa, doesn't live in the community he serves, and he hasn't worked here very long. That doesn't matter. This long-time public servant already has a heart for Melissa, Texas. He also has an excitement for this community as it really starts to grow. Assistant Chief Duscio is excited because he's lived through this before in McKinney and Wylie. On this episode of The Front Porch, he shares his advice on growing the right way. (His passion for public service is also showcased.) #thefrontporch 


Melissa Police Department: Website

Chief Stokes Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1936bestplacesstoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,publicservice,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,thefrontporchfalse224fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchCoach Ashley Pruitt loves her family, and that is more than just her husband and two kiddos. That is also every volleyball player at Melissa High School. Coach Pruitt has instilled a family-first mindset in the volleyball program, and it's her mission as the head varsity volleyball coach to "develop great humans." She said that the school district and the community demands excellence, but in her eyes that is more than just winning volleyball games #thefrontporch 


Melissa High School: Website

Melissa Varsity Volleyballl: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62098921Wed, 25 Sep 2024 04:20:25 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 23: Coach Ashley Pruitt loves her family, and that is more than just her husband and two kiddos. That is also every volleyball player at Melissa High School. Coach Pruitt has instilled a family-first mindset in the volleyball...Coach Ashley Pruitt loves her family, and that is more than just her husband and two kiddos. That is also every volleyball player at Melissa High School. Coach Pruitt has instilled a family-first mindset in the volleyball program, and it's her mission as the head varsity volleyball coach to "develop great humans." She said that the school district and the community demands excellence, but in her eyes that is more than just winning volleyball games #thefrontporch 


Melissa High School: Website

Melissa Varsity Volleyballl: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2089bestplacetoliveindfw,bestplacetoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,highschoolvolleyball,lovewhereyoulive,melisaaschools,melissa,melissaisd,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexasfalse223fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchBrian Masters, president of Hope Coffee. That is why he started his inspirational brand and why he wanted to bring his company to Melissa, Texas. Brian Masters firmly believes in this community, and he's proud to be a cornerstone of the new Gateway Village development in Downtown Melissa. This is Hope Coffee's third location and it's creating ripple effects in each of its communities. The crazy part to this story: Before starting this inspiring brand ... Brian Masters didn't even drink coffee.  #thefrontporch


Hope Coffee Melissa: Website

Gateway Village: Website

Deric Salser Podcast: Listen Now

Allen Ellen Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61339174Wed, 11 Sep 2024 15:43:22 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 22: Potential has always intrigued Brian Masters, president of Hope Coffee. That is why he started his inspirational brand and why he wanted to bring his company to Melissa, Texas. Brian Masters firmly believes in this community, and...Brian Masters, president of Hope Coffee. That is why he started his inspirational brand and why he wanted to bring his company to Melissa, Texas. Brian Masters firmly believes in this community, and he's proud to be a cornerstone of the new Gateway Village development in Downtown Melissa. This is Hope Coffee's third location and it's creating ripple effects in each of its communities. The crazy part to this story: Before starting this inspiring brand ... Brian Masters didn't even drink coffee.  #thefrontporch


Hope Coffee Melissa: Website

Gateway Village: Website

Deric Salser Podcast: Listen Now

Allen Ellen Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1749bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,coffeepodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,givingback,hopecoffee,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,philanthropy,powerofstory,storytelling,thefrontporchfalse222fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchCoach Matt Nally wants to win football games, but over the last few years he's realized that's not why he does what he does. In the midst of his success on the football field, his philosophy on coaching has evolved. Instead of focusing on the wins and losses, the leader of the Melissa Cardinals Football Team wants to pour into his players and coaches. He wants to help them be strong men, good citizens, loving husbands and engaged fathers. For Coach Nally, it's not about winning football games ... it's about winning life. #thefrontporch


Melissa High School: Website

Cardinal Football: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61261732Wed, 04 Sep 2024 13:17:37 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 21: Coach Matt Nally wants to win football games, but over the last few years he's realized that's not why he does what he does. In the midst of his success on the football field, his philosophy on coaching has evolved. Instead of...Coach Matt Nally wants to win football games, but over the last few years he's realized that's not why he does what he does. In the midst of his success on the football field, his philosophy on coaching has evolved. Instead of focusing on the wins and losses, the leader of the Melissa Cardinals Football Team wants to pour into his players and coaches. He wants to help them be strong men, good citizens, loving husbands and engaged fathers. For Coach Nally, it's not about winning football games ... it's about winning life. #thefrontporch


Melissa High School: Website

Cardinal Football: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2509bestpalcestoliveintexas,bestplacestoliveindfw,cardinalfootball,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,frontporch,highschoolfootball,melissa,melissacardinals,melissafootball,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,texasfootball,texashighschoolfootballfalse221fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch Alan Ellen has been fighting for his dream for a long time. Now that lifelong dream is becoming a reality in Melissa, Texas. Alan is the Chief of Instruction at Pro Black Belt Academy, the new martial arts facility in Melissa. His passion for his sport, and his love for his adopted community, really come out on this episode of The Front Porch. Talking to small business owners in this community provide a completely different perspective to the heart of Melissa. #frontporch

LINKS:

Pro Black Belt Academy: Website

Deric Salsar & Gateway Village Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61185849Wed, 28 Aug 2024 13:14:02 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 20: Alan Ellen has been fighting for his dream for a long time. Now that lifelong dream is becoming a reality in Melissa, Texas. Alan is the Chief of Instruction at Pro Black Belt Academy, the new martial arts facility in Melissa.... Alan Ellen has been fighting for his dream for a long time. Now that lifelong dream is becoming a reality in Melissa, Texas. Alan is the Chief of Instruction at Pro Black Belt Academy, the new martial arts facility in Melissa. His passion for his sport, and his love for his adopted community, really come out on this episode of The Front Porch. Talking to small business owners in this community provide a completely different perspective to the heart of Melissa. #frontporch

LINKS:

Pro Black Belt Academy: Website

Deric Salsar & Gateway Village Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2234bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,lovewhereyoulive,martialarts,martialartspodcast,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,problackbeltacademy,smallbusinesspodcast,supportsmallbusiness,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse220fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-Porch Mila Figg is an all-star. She is a published author. She is a mechanical engineer. She is a small business owner. On this episode of The Front Porch, we give Mila the opportunity to share her inspiring story, because she now proudly calls Melissa, Texas, home. Orginally from Kenya, Mila wanted to live the "American dream." Once she arrived in the United States to start college, she realized it wasn't exactly what she was expecting. (There was no limousine waiting for her at the airport with a suitcase of money in the trunk.) But that didn't deter this head-strong woman. She rolled up her sleeves and generated her own "milk and honey" in America. This is a story of strength and resilience. #frontporch

LINKS:

Mila Inspired: Website

Mila Inspired: Facebook

The Little Elephant's Big Adventure
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXDJ2TFW

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61037960Thu, 15 Aug 2024 13:41:02 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 19: Mila Figg is an all-star. She is a published author. She is a mechanical engineer. She is a small business owner. On this episode of The Front Porch, we give Mila the opportunity to share her inspiring story, because she now... Mila Figg is an all-star. She is a published author. She is a mechanical engineer. She is a small business owner. On this episode of The Front Porch, we give Mila the opportunity to share her inspiring story, because she now proudly calls Melissa, Texas, home. Orginally from Kenya, Mila wanted to live the "American dream." Once she arrived in the United States to start college, she realized it wasn't exactly what she was expecting. (There was no limousine waiting for her at the airport with a suitcase of money in the trunk.) But that didn't deter this head-strong woman. She rolled up her sleeves and generated her own "milk and honey" in America. This is a story of strength and resilience. #frontporch

LINKS:

Mila Inspired: Website

Mila Inspired: Facebook

The Little Elephant's Big Adventure
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXDJ2TFW

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2725africa,bookaboutelephants,bookrecommendations,childrensbook,childrensgifts,collincounty,communitypodcast,elephants,frontporchmelissa,frontporchpodcast,kenya,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,milafigg,milainpsired,storytelling,thefrontporch,westernmichiganfalse219fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJudge David Moore exemplifies our mission for this community podcast. His spirit and passion for Melissa, Texas, is contagious. His dedication to serving and giving back to this community is inspiring. Judge Moore is the "Iron Man" of Municipal Courts - not missing a court date in 32 years while serving Melissa (he's never banged his gavel either). This is a wonderfully great episode of The Front Porch, highlighted by Judge Moore's sense of humor and love for Melissa, Texas. #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Municipal Court: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60862289Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:51:52 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 18: This conversation with Judge David Moore exemplifies our mission for this community podcast. His spirit and passion for Melissa, Texas, is contagious. His dedication to serving and giving back to this community is inspiring....Judge David Moore exemplifies our mission for this community podcast. His spirit and passion for Melissa, Texas, is contagious. His dedication to serving and giving back to this community is inspiring. Judge Moore is the "Iron Man" of Municipal Courts - not missing a court date in 32 years while serving Melissa (he's never banged his gavel either). This is a wonderfully great episode of The Front Porch, highlighted by Judge Moore's sense of humor and love for Melissa, Texas. #frontporch

Links:

Melissa Municipal Court: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2031bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citygovernment,cityofmelissa,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,municipalcourt,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse218fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchChris Thatcher was destined to work in city government. From his father to his brothers, public service has become a calling, and Chris Thatcher takes his role as Utility Billing Director in Melissa, Texas, very seriously. For many residents, his department is the primary source of contact with the City of Melissa. He totally recognizes that and understands the importance of that role. Chris Thatcher's No. 1 goal is to provide exceptional customer service to every resident of this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Utility Billing: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60717387Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:07:52 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 17: Chris Thatcher was destined to work in city government. From his father to his brothers, public service has become a calling, and Chris Thatcher takes his role as Utility Billing Director in Melissa, Texas, very seriously. For...Chris Thatcher was destined to work in city government. From his father to his brothers, public service has become a calling, and Chris Thatcher takes his role as Utility Billing Director in Melissa, Texas, very seriously. For many residents, his department is the primary source of contact with the City of Melissa. He totally recognizes that and understands the importance of that role. Chris Thatcher's No. 1 goal is to provide exceptional customer service to every resident of this community.  #frontporch

Links:

Utility Billing: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1409bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citygovernment,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,frontporch,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,thefrontporchfalse217fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchAndrew Lowery served our country for 34 years in the Army Reserves. When he got out, he made it his mission to give back and embrace the community that supported him and his family for so long. Melissa, Texas, has benefitted from his selfless spirit. One of the main giving back initiatives that Andrew Lowery supports is Wreaths Across America, which honors our fallen service men and women. #frontporch

Links:


Wreaths Across America - Melissa: Facebook

Wreaths Across America: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60593053Wed, 03 Jul 2024 19:52:48 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 16: Andrew Lowery served our country for 34 years in the Army Reserves. When he got out, he made it his mission to give back and embrace the community that supported him and his family for so long. Melissa, Texas, has benefitted from...Andrew Lowery served our country for 34 years in the Army Reserves. When he got out, he made it his mission to give back and embrace the community that supported him and his family for so long. Melissa, Texas, has benefitted from his selfless spirit. One of the main giving back initiatives that Andrew Lowery supports is Wreaths Across America, which honors our fallen service men and women. #frontporch

Links:


Wreaths Across America - Melissa: Facebook

Wreaths Across America: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1501bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,frontporch,giving,givingback,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,philanthropy,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,texastravel,thefrontporch,wreathsacrossamericafalse216fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchNolan Harvey, the contracted city engineer in Melissa, brings a completely different perspective to this episode of The Front Porch. He has worked for the City of Melissa for almost 9 years, and he has been at the forefront of the growth and development. With every decision that is made, Nolan and his staff have the "good and growth of the community in mind."  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60439067Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:26:47 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 15: Nolan Harvey, the contracted city engineer in Melissa, brings a completely different perspective to this episode of The Front Porch. He has worked for the City of Melissa for almost 9 years, and he has been at the forefront of...Nolan Harvey, the contracted city engineer in Melissa, brings a completely different perspective to this episode of The Front Porch. He has worked for the City of Melissa for almost 9 years, and he has been at the forefront of the growth and development. With every decision that is made, Nolan and his staff have the "good and growth of the community in mind."  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1290besstplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveinnorthtexas,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityengineering,citygovernment,cityplanning,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,engineering,frontporch,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,thefrontporchfalse215fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchAlyssa Chaney grew up in Melissa, Texas. She left to attend college in Stephenville, Texas, but as soon as she graduated from Tarleton State University, she came straight back home. Now, she is getting the amazing opportunity to celebrate anything and everything for Melissa Schools. Her role as Communications Specialist for Melissa ISD gives her the opportunity to tell the story of a school district - and a community - that she whole-heartedly loves. #frontporch

Links:


Melissa ISD: Website

Melissa Schools on IG: Follow

Tarleton State: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60278798Tue, 04 Jun 2024 22:47:48 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 14: Alyssa Chaney grew up in Melissa, Texas. She left to attend college in Stephenville, Texas, but as soon as she graduated from Tarleton State University, she came straight back home. Now, she is getting the amazing opportunity to...Alyssa Chaney grew up in Melissa, Texas. She left to attend college in Stephenville, Texas, but as soon as she graduated from Tarleton State University, she came straight back home. Now, she is getting the amazing opportunity to celebrate anything and everything for Melissa Schools. Her role as Communications Specialist for Melissa ISD gives her the opportunity to tell the story of a school district - and a community - that she whole-heartedly loves. #frontporch

Links:


Melissa ISD: Website

Melissa Schools on IG: Follow

Tarleton State: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1374bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissaisd,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,thefrontporchfalse214fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s2-e13-fire-chief-carl-nix-all-in-the-family--60132861but his love and passion for Melissa, Texas, runs deep. That love and passion - along with his heart for his fire family - is what inspires Carl Nix to spend two and half hours a day commuting from Sulphur Springs, Texas. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get the chance to hear Chief Nix story, discuss his leadership philosophy and find out where his servent heart comes from.  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60132861Wed, 22 May 2024 12:50:21 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 13: Melissa's Fire Chief does not live in the community that he serves, but his love and passion for Melissa, Texas, runs deep. That love and passion - along with his heart for his fire family - is what inspires Carl Nix to spend two...but his love and passion for Melissa, Texas, runs deep. That love and passion - along with his heart for his fire family - is what inspires Carl Nix to spend two and half hours a day commuting from Sulphur Springs, Texas. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get the chance to hear Chief Nix story, discuss his leadership philosophy and find out where his servent heart comes from.  #frontporch

Links:

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1860bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communityfocus,communitypodcast,communitypride,firefighter,fireservices,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,publicservice,storytelling,thefrontporchfalse213fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s2-e12-don-dykstra-homeward-bound--59757450The Front Porch is a little different. Our featured guest, Don Dykstra - owner of Bloomfield Homes, doesn't live in Melissa or have an office in Melissa. But his company is building high-end houses in this community, and he does have a huge heart for Melissa, Texas. Along with his story, Don Dykstra shares his affection for Melissa. He also talks about starting Bloomfield Homes and his thoughts on this community's tremendous growth.  #frontporch

Links:

Bloomfield Homes: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59757450Wed, 01 May 2024 21:18:57 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 12: On this podcast, we tell the story of Melissa, Texas, by sharing the stories of the people who live and work here. This episode of The Front Porch is a little different. Our featured guest, Don Dykstra - owner of Bloomfield...The Front Porch is a little different. Our featured guest, Don Dykstra - owner of Bloomfield Homes, doesn't live in Melissa or have an office in Melissa. But his company is building high-end houses in this community, and he does have a huge heart for Melissa, Texas. Along with his story, Don Dykstra shares his affection for Melissa. He also talks about starting Bloomfield Homes and his thoughts on this community's tremendous growth.  #frontporch

Links:

Bloomfield Homes: Website 

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1813bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bloomfieldhomes,citygovernment,cityofmelissa,citypodcast,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,heartofmelissa,homebuilding,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse212fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s2-e11-tyler-brewer-providing-a-place-for-people-to-simply-be--59503596Tyler Brewer's first "real" job was with the City of Melissa. Ten years later, he's never left. On this episode of The Front Porch, the executive director of development explains what he loves about Melissa, Texas, and why he's so proud to work here. Since he's also oversite for some many different departments within the community, he has some profound insight on how Melissa is growing. #frontporch

Links:

City Manager Jason Little Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

read less]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59503596Wed, 17 Apr 2024 15:48:12 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 11: Coming out grad school, Tyler Brewer's first "real" job was with the City of Melissa. Ten years later, he's never left. On this episode of The Front Porch, the executive director of development explains what he loves about...Tyler Brewer's first "real" job was with the City of Melissa. Ten years later, he's never left. On this episode of The Front Porch, the executive director of development explains what he loves about Melissa, Texas, and why he's so proud to work here. Since he's also oversite for some many different departments within the community, he has some profound insight on how Melissa is growing. #frontporch

Links:

City Manager Jason Little Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

read less]]>1735bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citygovernment,cityofmelissa,citypodcast,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,servantleadership,texasedc,thefrontporch,westtexasa&mfalse211fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchJoseph Armstrong was a former youth pastor. During that season of his life, he learned the importance of focusing on other people. That life lesson continues to have ripple effects across his life, including with his role on Melissa's City Council. On this episode of The Front Porch, we hear Joseph's story, we talk about why he wanted to serve his community and he shares his hopes for Melissa, Texas. #frontporch

Links:

Mayor Northcut Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59277531Wed, 03 Apr 2024 15:01:03 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 10: Before jumping into commercial construction and owning/operating a local restaruant, Joseph Armstrong was a former youth pastor. During that season of his life, he learned the importance of focusing on other people. That life...Joseph Armstrong was a former youth pastor. During that season of his life, he learned the importance of focusing on other people. That life lesson continues to have ripple effects across his life, including with his role on Melissa's City Council. On this episode of The Front Porch, we hear Joseph's story, we talk about why he wanted to serve his community and he shares his hopes for Melissa, Texas. #frontporch

Links:

Mayor Northcut Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1439bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citygovernment,collincounty,communitypodcast,dfwgrowth,economicdevelopment,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,servantleadership,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse210fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchTammy Davis is a longtime resident of Melissa, Texas. She also has a huge heart for giving back. It’s safe to say that Tammy Davis is selfless, and you’ll quickly find out in our conversation where her kind heart comes from. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll get to know this Godly woman who has a heart for serving others and positively impacting her community. #frontporch

Links:

25 Project: Website

Direction 613: Website

Kent Jones Davis Podcast: Listen Now

Mayor Northcut Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59112578Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:35:14 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 9: Tammy Davis is a longtime resident of Melissa, Texas. She also has a huge heart for giving back. It’s safe to say that Tammy Davis is selfless, and you’ll quickly find out in our conversation where her kind heart comes from. On...Tammy Davis is a longtime resident of Melissa, Texas. She also has a huge heart for giving back. It’s safe to say that Tammy Davis is selfless, and you’ll quickly find out in our conversation where her kind heart comes from. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll get to know this Godly woman who has a heart for serving others and positively impacting her community. #frontporch

Links:

25 Project: Website

Direction 613: Website

Kent Jones Davis Podcast: Listen Now

Mayor Northcut Podcast: Listen Now

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1709bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,fosterkids,frontporch,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissachurch,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,philanthropy,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,texastravel,thefrontporchfalse29fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchBridget Saxton long to fall in love with Melissa, Texas. As the new communications manager for the city, Bridget has grown fond of this community in a very short amount of time. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll discuss Bridget's passion for Melissa, and we'll discover how she ended up here. She also discusses some of the challenges facing Melissa, and she talks about her support staff in the industry. #frontporch

Melissa Communications Department: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58932774Tue, 05 Mar 2024 15:28:37 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 8: It didn't take Bridget Saxton long to fall in love with Melissa, Texas. As the new communications manager for the city, Bridget has grown fond of this community in a very short amount of time. On this episode of The Front Porch,...Bridget Saxton long to fall in love with Melissa, Texas. As the new communications manager for the city, Bridget has grown fond of this community in a very short amount of time. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll discuss Bridget's passion for Melissa, and we'll discover how she ended up here. She also discusses some of the challenges facing Melissa, and she talks about her support staff in the industry. #frontporch

Melissa Communications Department: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1670bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citygovernment,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communications,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporchmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse28fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchDana Conklin will be quick to tell you that she is a "victim of her raisin'. " She is definitely a servant leader, and she points to her upbringing for establishing that foundation of giving back. From serving on the Melissa City Council to her involvment with Rotary, Dana is creating ripple effects throughout her community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get to know this amazing woman with a giving heart. We talk about her love for Melissa, challenges facing this community and the heart of the people who call Melissa home.

Melissa Rotary Club: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58765038Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:31:40 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 7: Dana Conklin will be quick to tell you that she is a "victim of her raisin'. " She is definitely a servant leader, and she points to her upbringing for establishing that foundation of giving back. From serving on the Melissa City...Dana Conklin will be quick to tell you that she is a "victim of her raisin'. " She is definitely a servant leader, and she points to her upbringing for establishing that foundation of giving back. From serving on the Melissa City Council to her involvment with Rotary, Dana is creating ripple effects throughout her community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get to know this amazing woman with a giving heart. We talk about her love for Melissa, challenges facing this community and the heart of the people who call Melissa home.

Melissa Rotary Club: Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1552bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporch,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissacitycouncil,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,servantleadership,storytelling,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse27fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchMayor Jay Northcut has run 20 marathons. I bet you also didn't know that he loves comic books. On this episode of The Front Porch, we pull back the curtain and really get to know the elected leader of Melissa, Texas. Besides revealing his hobbies on this episode, Mayor Northcut also shares his story, and he talks about how much Melissa has changed since he moved here almost 23 years ago. His heart for this community really comes out on this episode, too. It was his love for this community that sparked a desire to get involved and start giving back - and ultimately inspired him to run for mayor. #thefrontporch

Mayor Reed Greer: Listen Here

Deric Salser Podcast: Listen Here

Jason Little Podcast: Listen Here

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58586626Tue, 06 Feb 2024 14:48:58 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 6: I bet you didn't know that Mayor Jay Northcut has run 20 marathons. I bet you also didn't know that he loves comic books. On this episode of The Front Porch, we pull back the curtain and really get to know the elected leader of...Mayor Jay Northcut has run 20 marathons. I bet you also didn't know that he loves comic books. On this episode of The Front Porch, we pull back the curtain and really get to know the elected leader of Melissa, Texas. Besides revealing his hobbies on this episode, Mayor Northcut also shares his story, and he talks about how much Melissa has changed since he moved here almost 23 years ago. His heart for this community really comes out on this episode, too. It was his love for this community that sparked a desire to get involved and start giving back - and ultimately inspired him to run for mayor. #thefrontporch

Mayor Reed Greer: Listen Here

Deric Salser Podcast: Listen Here

Jason Little Podcast: Listen Here

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2071bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporch,heartofmelissa,internationaladoption,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,missiontrips,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse26fullhttps://www.cityofmelissa.com/495/Podcast-The-Front-PorchThe Front Porch is Courtney Willis. Courtney and her husband founded Mission Regan after the blessing-riddled adoption of their youngest son. They were barreling towards rock bottom, but their faith forced them to surrender and their lives have not been the same since. Courtney Willis and Mission Regan are creating ripple effects across the world, and it's all starting in Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch

Mission Regan: https://www.missionregan.org

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58421691Tue, 23 Jan 2024 20:34:16 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 5: There is nothing like a good comeback story - a story highlighted by resilience, love and selflessness. This is one of those stories! Our featured guest on this episode of The Front Porch is Courtney Willis. Courtney and her...The Front Porch is Courtney Willis. Courtney and her husband founded Mission Regan after the blessing-riddled adoption of their youngest son. They were barreling towards rock bottom, but their faith forced them to surrender and their lives have not been the same since. Courtney Willis and Mission Regan are creating ripple effects across the world, and it's all starting in Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch

Mission Regan: https://www.missionregan.org

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2604bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,frontporch,heartofmelissa,internationaladoption,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,missiontrips,movingtotexas,relocatingtotexas,texasedc,texastravelfalse25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s2-e4-preston-taylor-plan-accordingly--58246344Preston Taylor and his young family now call Melissa, Texas, home. When he's not blazing a trail in commercial real estate, he is the chairman of Melissa's Planning and Zoning Comission. On this episode of The Front Porch, we will share Preston's impressive story. Spoiler Alert: This guy is an all-star - a real go-getter. But the coolest part of his story revolves around the love he’s already established for Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch

Planning & Zoning: City Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58246344Tue, 09 Jan 2024 22:37:22 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 4: Preston Taylor and his young family now call Melissa, Texas, home. When he's not blazing a trail in commercial real estate, he is the chairman of Melissa's Planning and Zoning Comission. On this episode of The Front Porch, we will...Preston Taylor and his young family now call Melissa, Texas, home. When he's not blazing a trail in commercial real estate, he is the chairman of Melissa's Planning and Zoning Comission. On this episode of The Front Porch, we will share Preston's impressive story. Spoiler Alert: This guy is an all-star - a real go-getter. But the coolest part of his story revolves around the love he’s already established for Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch

Planning & Zoning: City Website

City of Melissa: Website

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1703bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityplanning,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,frontporchpodcast,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtomelissa,movingtotexas,planningandzoning,texasedc,texastravel,thefrontporchfalse24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s2-e3-deric-salser-gateway-to-progress--58059099Deric Salser and the Salser Development Group are leaving a profound impact on Melissa, Texas. On this episode of The Front Porch, Deric Salser shares the vision and story and expectations of Gateway Village, which is starting to take shape downtown. Maybe you have seen the progress or heard whispers about the project, but Deric Salser tells the story behind this signature development and paints a beautiful picture of what Melissa, Texas, can expect when it's done. #thefrontporch


Gateway Village Project: https://www.gatewaymelissa.com

Gateway Village Video: On YouTube

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58059099Tue, 19 Dec 2023 14:55:06 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 3: Deric Salser and the Salser Development Group are leaving a profound impact on Melissa, Texas. On this episode of The Front Porch, Deric Salser shares the vision and story and expectations of Gateway Village, which is starting to...Deric Salser and the Salser Development Group are leaving a profound impact on Melissa, Texas. On this episode of The Front Porch, Deric Salser shares the vision and story and expectations of Gateway Village, which is starting to take shape downtown. Maybe you have seen the progress or heard whispers about the project, but Deric Salser tells the story behind this signature development and paints a beautiful picture of what Melissa, Texas, can expect when it's done. #thefrontporch


Gateway Village Project: https://www.gatewaymelissa.com

Gateway Village Video: On YouTube

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1513bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitygrowth,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissaedc,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,powerofstory,relocatingtotexas,salserdevelopment,storytelling,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s2-e2-kelton-brewer-the-chance-to-pay-it-forward--57839187Kelton Brewer drowned when he was two years old. Based on accounts from the incident, Kelton said he actually died. But thanks to a neighbor, and Plano Fire and Rescue, he was revived and survived the near-tragic accident. Since that moment, the Melissa High School graduate has wanted to pay it forward. And that's exactly what he's doing as a firefighter and paramedic in Melissa. His journey, which carried him away from Melissa for a short stint, has been lined with countless blessings. Now, Kelton Brewer's goal is to leave this community better than he found it. #thefrontporch

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57839187Wed, 29 Nov 2023 02:01:52 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 2: Kelton Brewer drowned when he was two years old. Based on accounts from the incident, Kelton said he actually died. But thanks to a neighbor, and Plano Fire and Rescue, he was revived and survived the near-tragic accident. Since...Kelton Brewer drowned when he was two years old. Based on accounts from the incident, Kelton said he actually died. But thanks to a neighbor, and Plano Fire and Rescue, he was revived and survived the near-tragic accident. Since that moment, the Melissa High School graduate has wanted to pay it forward. And that's exactly what he's doing as a firefighter and paramedic in Melissa. His journey, which carried him away from Melissa for a short stint, has been lined with countless blessings. Now, Kelton Brewer's goal is to leave this community better than he found it. #thefrontporch

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1833bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,firefighter,frontporch,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissafireandrescue,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,protectandserve,relocatingtotexas,storytelling,texasedc,thefrontporchfalse22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/s2-e1-chief-erik-stokes-just-the-right-fit--57839122Erik Stokes hasn't been the Police Chief in Melissa, Texas, for very long. But he already has a heart for this community – and according to him, it starts with the people. After a long tenure – and working up the ranks – in Farmer's Branch, Chief Stokes finally got the opportunity to put his policing philosophy and his leadership skills to the test. After listening to this one-on-one conversation, you'll see why the City of Melissa hired him as its new Police Chief. #thefrontporch


City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57839122Wed, 29 Nov 2023 01:48:18 +0000City of MelissaSeason 2, Episode 1: Erik Stokes hasn't been the Police Chief in Melissa, Texas, for very long. But he already has a heart for this community – and according to him, it starts with the people. After a long tenure – and working up the ranks – in...Erik Stokes hasn't been the Police Chief in Melissa, Texas, for very long. But he already has a heart for this community – and according to him, it starts with the people. After a long tenure – and working up the ranks – in Farmer's Branch, Chief Stokes finally got the opportunity to put his policing philosophy and his leadership skills to the test. After listening to this one-on-one conversation, you'll see why the City of Melissa hired him as its new Police Chief. #thefrontporch


City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1634bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,firstresponder,leadership,lovewhereyoulive,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,police,protectandserve,texaseconomicdevelopment,texasedc,texastravel,thefrontporchfalse21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-30-mike-demsky-doug-out-sports-grill--46866618
Doug Out Sports Grill : https://dougoutsportsgrill.com

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46866618Thu, 07 Oct 2021 16:08:39 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 30: Mike Demsky has started a new chapter in his life. After spending many years in the golf industry – working at some of the best courses and clubs in North Texas – he decided it was time for a new adventure. That's when this 11-year...
Doug Out Sports Grill : https://dougoutsportsgrill.com

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2215baseball,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,collincounty,communitypride,dougzadow,foodie,heartofmelissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasbaseball,texasbbq,texaseconomicdevelopment,texasedc,texassports,zplexfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-29-wayne-poage-symmetry-sports-construction--46544080
Symmetry Sports Construction : https://www.symmetrysports.com

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46544080Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:04:16 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 29: The importance of relationships in Melissa, Texas, keeps coming up on this podcast. Symmetry Sports Construction, which has played a significant role in almost every sports facility in Melissa, wholeheartedly believes in that philosophy....
Symmetry Sports Construction : https://www.symmetrysports.com

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1681baseball,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bestschools,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,highschoolfootball,lovewhereyoulive,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,sportsfacilities,texasedc,texashighschoolfootballfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-28-lynn-vanlandingham-five-tool-baseball--46344151

Five Tool Baseball: https://fivetool.org

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46344151Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:04:03 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 28: Lynn Vanlandingham, owner of Five Tool Baseball, has a passion for baseball. The cool part of his story is that fact that he has partnered with a community – Melissa, Texas – that has a passion for the game as well. On this episode of...

Five Tool Baseball: https://fivetool.org

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1517baseballpodcast,baseballrecruiting,baseballscouting,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveontexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communityparternship,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,fivetoolbaseball,fortheloveofthegame,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasbaseball,texasedcfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-27-kent-jones-davis-the-25-project--46151275
The 25 Project: https://www.25project.org/overview-mco/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46151275Thu, 19 Aug 2021 04:07:32 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 27: Kent Jones Davis has called Melissa, Texas, home for more than 14 years. He has a heart for this community, but we wanted to bring him on the podcast to talk about the amazing ripples he's generating across the world with The 25 Project....
The 25 Project: https://www.25project.org/overview-mco/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>228125project,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,heartofmelissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,missiontrips,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texaseconomicdevelopement,texasedcfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-26-dena-norton--45359823
Also on this episode: We discuss Melissa Schools ... what it's like raising twin daughters ... and what's next since she and her husband are now empty-nesters.

The 25 Project: https://www.25project.org/overview-mco/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45359823Fri, 18 Jun 2021 19:33:47 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 26: Dena Norton has a servants heart for Melissa, Texas. She is the Director of Community Outreach, which runs the food pantry in Melissa. When Dena talks about the food pantry, and the amazing people they serve, she lights up. It was very...
Also on this episode: We discuss Melissa Schools ... what it's like raising twin daughters ... and what's next since she and her husband are now empty-nesters.

The 25 Project: https://www.25project.org/overview-mco/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1997bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,givingback,heartofmelissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,philanthropy,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,relocatingtotexas,texaseconomicdevelopment,texasedcfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-25-carson-ross-and-kadyn-king--45144204
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45144204Thu, 03 Jun 2021 02:37:04 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 25: Teenagers provide a completely different perspective about community. On this episode of "Heart of Melissa," we got the chance to visit with Carson Ross and Kadyn King, seniors in the Class of 2021 at Melissa High School. They discussed...
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2357bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,loveofcommunity,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasedcfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-24-principal-marcus-eckert--44920955
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44920955Thu, 20 May 2021 03:49:22 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 24: A series of powerful events led Marcus Eckert to Melissa, Texas. It started with a high school football game ... next came a hug from Duke Sparks ... then an answered prayer in the form of bird that landed on his back fence. That bird was...
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2407bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bestschoolsintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,dfw,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,relocatingtotexas,texasedcfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-23-rev-stacey-piyakhun-melissa-umc--44660337
Melissa United Methodist Church: https://melissaumc.com

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44660337Thu, 06 May 2021 13:01:55 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 23: Stacey Piyakhun doesn't mix her words. She has a heart for the people in Melissa, Texas, and she does a beautiful job expressing that love and admiration. On this episode of "Heart of Melissa," Rev. Piyakhun – lead pastor at Melissa United...
Melissa United Methodist Church: https://melissaumc.com

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1314bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopement,heartofmelissa,loveofcommunity,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,movingtotexas,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasedc,texasrealestate,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-22-pastor-trey-graham-first-melissa--44340580
First Melissa: https://firstmelissa.com/

Trey Graham website: http://www.treygraham.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44340580Thu, 15 Apr 2021 04:08:01 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 22: Trey Graham wears a lot of different hats. He's the lead pastor at First Melissa ... he does the radio play-by-play for Melissa football ... he's an author ... and he hosts two radio shows. (That's not even counting being a dad and...
First Melissa: https://firstmelissa.com/

Trey Graham website: http://www.treygraham.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1741bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,church,citypodcast,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,faith,loveofcommunity,melissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofstory,spiritiuality,storytelling,texaschurches,texasedc,westpointfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-21-city-manager-jason-little--44065182
City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44065182Fri, 26 Mar 2021 17:19:40 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 21: Melissa City Manager Jason Little has his finger on the pulse of this community. He has served in his current role for 15 years, and he has a servant's heart for Melissa, Texas. On this episode we discuss the community's expectations of...
City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1861bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bestschoolsindfw,bestschoolsintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,loveofcommunity,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,relocatingtotexas,texasedc,texaspodcast,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-20-george-james--43847551
George James Real Estate: https://www.georgejames79.com/

Melissa Schools: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43847551Thu, 11 Mar 2021 21:45:19 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 20: George James has called Melissa, Texas, home for a long time. Thirty-five years to be exact. He's seen a lot of changes in his community, especially in regards to Melissa Schools. James has been on the school board for 19 years. He was...
George James Real Estate: https://www.georgejames79.com/

Melissa Schools: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2003bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,bestschooldistrictsintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,melissaisd,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-19-pastor-ryan-ross-city-church-melissa--43628234
City Church Melissa: https://citychurchmelissa.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43628234Thu, 25 Feb 2021 06:42:01 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 19: Ryan Ross, pastor at City Church Melissa, has a huge heart for this community. The vision of his church captures that beautifully: "We are a community of people living for the glory of God and the good of the city." On this episode of...
City Church Melissa: https://citychurchmelissa.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2401bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citychurch,citychurchmelissa,citypodcast,collincounty,communitychurch,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,faith,loveofcommunity,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatexaspodcast,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-18-parris-hill-farm-ranch--43395435
Parris Hill Farm & Ranch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parrishillranch/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43395435Thu, 11 Feb 2021 04:53:25 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 18: Diane and Lillie Miller have called Melissa, Texas, home for a long time. Their roots run deep. As Melissa continues to grow and evolve, the owners of Parris Hill Farm and Ranch are determined to hold on to some of the history, while...
Parris Hill Farm & Ranch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parrishillranch/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1687bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,communityhistory,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,farmandranch,loveofcommunity,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,parrishillfarm,parrishillranch,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,shoplocal,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-17-kenny-deel--43157523
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43157523Thu, 28 Jan 2021 06:12:02 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 17: Kenny Deel has a passion for the kids in Melissa, Texas, and he has dedicated his entire career to Melissa Schools. Deel was recently honored for that passion and dedication. In August of 2022, the first football game will by played at...
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1957bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,melissaisd,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasedc,texashighschoolfootball,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-16-michelle-stradling--42933364
City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42933364Thu, 14 Jan 2021 15:12:22 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 16: Michelle Stradling and her husband, Jesse, ended up in Melissa, Texas, because of the water tower. Not really. But kind of. They have a fun, adventurous story that got them from Arizona to Texas and ultimately to Melissa. They moved to...
City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1721bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,communitypodcast,communitypride,econcomicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,lovewhereyoulive,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtotexas,powerofcommunity,powerofcommunity.life,powerofstory,relocatingtotexas,texasedc,texaspodcast,texaspride,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-15-victoria-marshall-kay-marie-boutique--42530744
Kay Marie Boutique: https://kaymarieboutique.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42530744Thu, 17 Dec 2020 05:53:04 +0000City of MelissaWhen Victoria Marshall asked her family what they thought about her opening a boutique in downtown Melissa, she was certain they would squash that idea. They didn't. They actually encouraged the former school teacher and Mary Kay director to go for...
Kay Marie Boutique: https://kaymarieboutique.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1708bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,communitypodcast,downtownmelissa,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,mainstreet,marykay,marykaycosmetics,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,onlineretail,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,shoplocal,supportsmallbusiness,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-14-duke-sparks--42290554
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42290554Thu, 03 Dec 2020 04:54:17 +0000City of MelissaDuke Sparks is on fire for Melissa, Texas. After a storied career as a coach and administrator across the state, he landed in Melissa at a pivotal time in his life. He was entrenched in this community when an unimaginable tragedy ripped through his...
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1908bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,community,communitypodcast,communitystorytelling,economicdevelopment,education,loveofcommunity,melissaisd,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,schoolpride,texasedc,texaseducation,texashighschoolfootballfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-13-rachel-buckley-camp-gladiator--41933098
Camp Gladiator: https://campgladiator.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41933098Thu, 12 Nov 2020 05:35:29 +0000City of MelissaRachel Buckley is giving back to Melissa, Texas, in a very unique way. She is a partner/trainer for Camp Gladiator. Not only is she helping people live a healthy lifestyle, she is building a community inside a community that she has fallen in love...
Camp Gladiator: https://campgladiator.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1840bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,campgladiator,cg,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,economicdevelopment,groupworkouts,healthyliving,melissacg,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,noexcuses,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,relocatingintexas,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-12-marlo-hofmann-cross-my-heart-hope-for-pie--41693208
Cross My Heart & Hope For Pie: https://crossmyheartpie.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41693208Thu, 29 Oct 2020 04:57:00 +0000City of MelissaThere is a lot of love, faith and history in a slice of Marlo Hofman's pie. The owner of Cross My Heart & Hope For Pie is building on a legacy that was started in the kitchen by her grandmother and cultivated by her momma. Now Hofman, and her two...
Cross My Heart & Hope For Pie: https://crossmyheartpie.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2324bestpie,bestpieintexas,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,communitypodcast,communitypride,daytripping,dfwfoodie,economicdevelopment,foodie,heartofmelissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,pieshop,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-11-mary-ann-little-bella-couture-salon--41473850
Bella Couture Salon: https://www.bellacouturesalonandboutique.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41473850Thu, 15 Oct 2020 11:53:32 +0000City of MelissaWhen you set up roots in a community, cool things happen. Mary Ann Little – owner and artistic director at Bella Couture Salon – is living that truth. After moving to Melissa, she opened her boutique hair salon in downtown Melissa. The community...
Bella Couture Salon: https://www.bellacouturesalonandboutique.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1474bellacouture,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,communitypodcast,daytripping,economicdevelopment,entrepreneur,givingback,givingheart,heartofmelissa,loveofcommunity,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,storytelling,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-10-darin-jordan-hidden-aces-bbq--41094190
Hidden Aces BBQ: https://www.facebook.com/BBQ2019

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41094190Thu, 24 Sep 2020 04:18:30 +0000City of MelissaIf you drive through downtown Melissa, Texas, you can't miss Darin Jordan's place. It's small and quaint and smells like heaven. The little log cabin that houses Hidden Aces BBQ is starting to make a name for itself in Melissa (and across the region)....
Hidden Aces BBQ: https://www.facebook.com/BBQ2019

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1243bestbbq,bestbbqintexas,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,communitypodcast,daytripping,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,melissapodcast,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,smalltownusa,storytelling,texasbbq,texasbestbbq,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-9-ashton-mitchell-johnson--40809426https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40809426Thu, 10 Sep 2020 04:45:27 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 9: When George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis, 16-year-old Ashton Mitchell-Johnson got mad. He said he wanted to punch something. But this passionate teenager from Melissa, Texas, channeled that anger and decided to do something impactful...2442bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,blacklivesmatter,citypodcast,collincounty,community,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,highschoolfootball,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,racialinjustice,racism,socialinjustice,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-8-kellie-maynard--40512546
Melissa Education Foundation: https://melissaeducationfoundation.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40512546Thu, 27 Aug 2020 10:27:31 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 8: Passion. That one word sums up this episode of "Heart of Melissa" with our featured guest Kellie Maynard, director of the Melissa Education Foundation. She has a heart for anything and everything Melissa, Texas, and that came out on this...
Melissa Education Foundation: https://melissaeducationfoundation.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1976bestplacestolive,bestplacestoliveindfw,bestplacestoliveintexas,cityofmelissa,citypodcast,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopement,educationfoundation,heartofmelissa,loveofcommunity,melissa,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,storytelling,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-7-mayor-reed-greer--40298681https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40298681Thu, 13 Aug 2020 05:13:33 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 7: Reed Greer has been mayor of Melissa, Texas, for 11 years. To say that he has a heart for this community is an understatement. He was initially drawn to Melissa for the schools, but now – after more than 18 years – Mayor Greer loves so much...3127bestplacestolive,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,community,communitypodcast,communitypride,dfw,economicdevelopment,edc,melissa,melissaisd,melissatexas,melissatx,movingtodfw,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,storytelling,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-6-brooke-ethan-redden--40049944
Redden Concrete: https://www.reddenconcrete.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40049944Thu, 30 Jul 2020 05:19:54 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 6: You might know Brooke and Ethan Redden, but do really know them? Do you know how they met and/or got married? Both very cool stories that they share on this episode of "Heart of Melissa." That is an amazing aspect of this podcast ......
Redden Concrete: https://www.reddenconcrete.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2480bestplacestolive,citypodcast,collincounty,community,communitypodcast,communitystory,economicdevelopment,hearofmelissa,heartofmelissapodcast,melissa,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,reddenconcrete,relocatingtotexas,story,texascities,texasedc,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-5-superintendent-keith-murphy--39789598https://api.spreaker.com/episode/39789598Thu, 16 Jul 2020 06:02:30 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 5: Need some inspiration or motivation? Listen to this episode of "Heart of Melissa." The passion and energy of our featured guest – Keith Murphy, superintendent of Melissa Schools – is inspiring and contagious. Where does that fire come from?...2887bestplacestolive,bestplacestoliveindfw,citypodcast,collincounty,communitypodcast,covid19,economicdevelopment,lovewins,melissapodcast,melissaschools,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,publiceducation,smalltownusa,teammelissa,texasedc,texaspublicschools,texastravelfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-4-dave-quinn-economic-development--35309898
Day One Experts: https://d1experts.com/

Dave Quinn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davequinn247/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/35309898Thu, 02 Jul 2020 02:57:37 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 4: Part of Melissa's story is its bright future. On this episode ... we visit with Dave Quinn, who is leading the charge for economic development in this community. Dave – along with his company, Day One Experts – have been brought in to help...
Day One Experts: https://d1experts.com/

Dave Quinn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davequinn247/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1879bestplacestolive,citypodcast,collincounty,collincountytexas,community,communitypodcast,dayoneexperts,dfw,economicdevelopment,edc,heartofmelissa,melissaisd,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,smalltownusa,story,storytelling,texasedcfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/special-edition-we-are-one-melissa--31695855
City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/31695855Thu, 18 Jun 2020 16:05:16 +0000City of MelissaOn this special edition of "Heart of Melissa" ... we got the opportunity to spotlight Shannon Sweat and Omar Landrum. We focused on their individual stories, discussed how they ended up in Melissa, Texas, and found out what they love about their...
City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>3237bestplacestolive,bethechange,bethelight,citygovernment,citypodcast,collincountytexas,communitypodcast,communitypride,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,inspiration,melissa,melissatexas,melissatx,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,racialinjustice,socialinjustice,storytelling,yourcommunitypodcastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-3-doug-zadow--29220256
Melissa Sports: https://www.melissasports.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/29220256Wed, 03 Jun 2020 22:40:12 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 3: What do you get when you combine an entrepreneurial spirit with community pride? Melissa, Texas, is lucky to know the answer to that question. For the last 35 years, Doug Zadow has developed a love and passion for his community. He has been...
Melissa Sports: https://www.melissasports.com/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2328baseball,baseballtournaments,bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,collincounty,collincountytexas,communitypodcast,heartofmelissa,melissa,melissaisd,melissaschools,melissasports,melissatexas,melissatx,perspective,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,smalltownusa,storytelling,youthsportsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-2-grayson-hurst-bella-blankenship--27866084
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/27866084Wed, 20 May 2020 12:02:35 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 2: Covid-19 has impacted everyone in some shape, form or fashion. High school seniors were effected in a very profound way. On this episode of "Heart of Melissa," we share the stories of Grayson Hurst and Bella Blankenship, seniors at Melissa...
Melissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>2034bestplacestoliveintexas,citypodcast,classof2020,collincounty,collincountytexas,communitypodcast,coronavirus,covid19,heartofmelissa,highschoolbaseball,melissa,melissatexas,melissatx,perspective,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,smalltownusa,storytelling,theatreuil,uilfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-1-danielle-dorman-chapa--27863736
Mudpies & Lullabies: http://www.mudpies-lullabies.com/

Onyx Acres Happy Ranch: https://www.facebook.com/onyxacres/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/27863736Wed, 20 May 2020 11:55:12 +0000City of MelissaEpisode 1: Danielle Dorman-Chapa moved to Melissa her sophomore year of high school. The city limit sign read: "Population: 301." She thought her life was over, even though she loved how beautiful it was. After she started her family, she moved back...
Mudpies & Lullabies: http://www.mudpies-lullabies.com/

Onyx Acres Happy Ranch: https://www.facebook.com/onyxacres/

City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com]]>1647animalrescue,bestplacestoliveintexas,childcare,collincounty,collincountytexas,communitypodcast,covid19,dallasfortworth,dfw,earlychildhooddevelopment,economicdevelopment,heartofmelissa,melissa,melissatexas,melissatx,placestoliveintexas,powerofcommunity,powerofstory,smalltownusa,texasfalsefull