In this episode of SA Talk, host Zachary Espericueta sits down with Danielle Gunter. Danielle, the executive director of The Texas YES Project explains how the organization got started, how it's changed over the years, what led her there and much more. Danielle also discusses how important it is for students to have the necessary tools when they are in the classroom so that they can ultimately succeed.  TEXAS YES is an educational nonprofit committed to closing the gap for educational equality through the support of Title 1 students in San Antonio, Dallas-Fort Worth, Corpus Christi and Austin. For over 20 years the YES program has worked to provide students with the supplies/resources they need for success. Their Box of Dreams and Little Locker programs deliver schools supplies and provide easy access to books within students’ own neighborhoods. Additionally, they provide direct grants to teachers and schools to fund new initiatives such as STEAM education and classroom updates. Where to Find/Follow The Texas YES Project: Website: https://www.texasyesproject.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/texasyesproject/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/texasyesproject/

On this episode of SA Talk, host Zachary Espericueta speaks with children's book author, Alda Dobbs. Alda shares how and why she became an author after working for a number of years in other industries. She also explains the process of bringing a book to the market and what some newer authors should be looking out for. Also, Alda shares the meaning behind one of her book characters and how she incorporates her own experiences in her writing. Where to Find/Follow Alda Dobbs: Website: https://www.aldapdobbs.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aldapdobbs/ Amazon site: https://www.amazon.com/Alda-P-Dobbs/e/B08T66PS4M/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1 Schedule an Event: https://www.aldapdobbs.com/event-information

On this episode of SA Talk, host Zachary Espericueta sits down with the CEO of The Bubble Bath Car Wash, Nick Lopez. Nick discusses his entrepreneurial roots and how he helped his family transition into the car wash industry. Nick also talks about the programs they've implemented and the effort they've put forth to give back; both to the community and to employees. Lastly, Nick shares his experience as a fellow NLC alum who was also a business owner. Both Zach and Nick discuss how beneficial the organization can be to small business owners. Find The Bubble Bath Car Wash on social media: Website: https://thebubblebathcarwash.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BubblebathCW/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/bubblebathcw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bubblebathcw/

On this episode of SA Talk, Zach sits down with Texas A&M University-San Antonio athletics director, Darnell Smith. The two discuss the state of the TAMUSA sports program, his backstory and what led him to this role in his career. Darnell shares how his experiences as a player in college helped his growth as a leader off the field. He also talks about the opportunities he looked past in order to come home and take the TAMUSA job. Darnell explains some of the goals of TAMUSA athletics and how they're building momentum on the Southside of San Antonio. TAMUSA athletics website: https://www.tamusasports.com/landing/index Follow Darnell on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jaguaradsmith

On this episode of San Antonio Changemakers, Jonathan Gutierrez joins the podcast to talk about his experience in NLC-San Antonio. From NLC Bio: Jonathan Gutierrez (he/him) is an organizer, educator, and voting rights advocate. He is passionate about developing young leaders in Texas, engaging in year-round community organizing, and in building long-term power in communities of the global majority. In his current role at MOVE Texas, Jonathan works to coach, support, and develop community organizers across South/Central Texas who engage in year-round peer-to-peer voter registration, voter mobilization, and power building campaigns in youth communities. Jonathan is motivated in his work by his belief in the transformative power of community, mentorship, and collective action. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M International University and a proud alumnus of AmeriCorps Vista. Jonathan was born and raised along the Rio Grande, in Laredo, Texas and surrounding communities, but currently lives in San Antonio, Texas. He enjoys organizing around the issues that matter most to him, regularly tackling creative personal projects, and spending quality time with his friends, family, and being the very best tío John to his very funny and very huggable 3-year-old nephew. Learn more about NLC San Antonio: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/chapter/san-antonio/ Apply: https://form.jotform.com/220935355779064 Donate: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/donate/ Nominate a Leader: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/nominate-a-leader/

On this episode of SA Talk, Hector Cano joins the show to discuss how he started his local podcast that focuses on Texas HS, Club, & College Soccer as well as the recruiting game in the Lone Star State. Hector is the Director of Soccer and Head Women’s Soccer Coach for St. Mary’s Hall in San Antonio, TX. He’s also the Director of Soccer for College Promoters USA. Hector is a combat veteran from OEF & OIF. Listen to The 50/50 Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-50-50-podcast/id1612105483 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7FagaQIgXxEqOhO5Z2Z5Uu Follow The 50/50 Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwCSAc9HNjOuZzSLpny3EHg Twitter: https://twitter.com/50_50Pod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/50_50podcast/

On this episode of the podcast mini-series SA Changemakers, Nicolette Ardiente joins the podcast to talk about what led her to Texas, her experience with NLC San Antonio, and the work she's doing out in the community. Learn more about NLC San Antonio: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/chapter/san-antonio/  Apply: https://form.jotform.com/220935355779064  Donate: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/donate/ Nominate a Leader: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/nominate-a-leader/

This mini-series explains what New Leaders Council is, how the NLC San Antonio chapter got started, and shares the stories of some of the 2022 cohort fellows. Tune in to learn more about the NLC San Antonio experience as well as the amazing cross-sector leaders that are involved. In this first episode of the mini-series, host Zachary Espericueta ('22 fellow) sits down to interview Mary Ellen Veliz ('16 fellow, chapter director, NLC board member), Jake Reyna-Casanova ('19 fellow, chapter co-director), and Taylor Watson ('21 fellow, curriculum chair). Learn more about NLC San Antonio: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/chapter/san-antonio/ Apply: https://form.jotform.com/220935355779064 Donate: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/donate/ Nominate a Leader: https://www.newleaderscouncil.org/nominate-a-leader/

On this episode of SA Talk, Zach invites LSAISD Executive Director, Austin Hawk, to join the show to discuss the leadership program. Austin shares how he was brought on to LSAISD and what it's been like now that he's in a leadership role. He also explains what to expect of the cohort if you are interested in applying. APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN THROUGH JULY 16TH: http://ow.ly/gT4L50JPaXa Leadership SAISD is a FREE 9-month education leadership development program that provides community members the information and skills to become thought leaders around education. Participants develop a nuanced understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing school communities with topics such as school finance, policy and advocacy, and educational equity. Cohort members meet once a month to hear from influential speakers and experts, review best practices, explore equity in education, and conduct site visits. Seminars provide a factual, non-partisan look at how schools function. Cohort members explore the most relevant topics in education today including: Data & Research in EducationSchool FinanceEducation Policy & AdvocacyEducation GovernanceHealth & Wellness in Education21st Century LearningEducation Equity, Diversity, and InclusionEducation LeadershipCommunity Engagement Website: https://www.leadershipsaisd.org/

On this special episode of the San Antonio Podcast Network, Zachary gives his NLC San Antonio capstone presentation.  NLC develops, connects, and uplifts inclusive, cross-sector leaders who transform our country through social and political change rooted in equity.

On this episode of SA Talk, Zach is joined by Victoria Cabrera, owner of The Medicare Space. Victoria shares how she entered the industry, the early challenges she faced, and how The Medicare Space came to be. Victoria also discusses what an agency owner can do to set their business apart and scale - including embracing technology, looking at trends, being open to new strategies, and of course, hard work. She also explains what led her to start her own live show, The Medicare Space LIVE - which airs every Friday morning at 10 am on Facebook Live, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Twitter.  Follow The Medicare Space: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themedicarespace Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themedicarespace/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VictoriaCabreraTheMedicareSpace

In this episode of SA Talk, Zach invites Eddie Benningfield of Runners Rising to share the backstory of the first NIL Collective providing opportunities for Roadrunner athletes. Eddie gives a better explanation of what NIL is and how it's affecting schools differently, based on size. Zach and Eddie also discuss the opportunities that lie ahead for UTSA and how the athletics program is in a unique position going forward.  Runners Rising Website: https://runnersrisingproject.org/ NIL Tracker: https://runnersrisingproject.org/utsa-nil-tracker/ Support Runners Rising: https://runnersrisingproject.org/contribute/

In this episode of SA Talk, Zach sits down with Tim Morrow, the CEO of the San Antonio Zoo to discuss his backstory, how the Zoo weathered the pandemic, and the accolades they've been racking up recently. Tune in to learn more about what's been going on at the San Antonio Zoo lately!

On this episode of SA Talk, David Michael Carbajal joins the show to discuss his experience in the film industry here in San Antonio. He shares his recent work, some of his best content, and talks about the state of the industry here in The Alamo City. Riot in Cell Block 95: https://open.spotify.com/album/3iBcYhBKsQNPxO5TGcW1NP?si=2aNMCVZuQky24PUjzATVTg Follow David M Carbajal on IG: https://www.instagram.com/davidmcarbajal34/?hl=en

On this episode of SA Talk, Zach gives an update on the podcast, discusses the leadership development groups he's been a part of recently, and invites two Senior Vice Presidents of Broadway Bank to talk about what they're doing to support education and financial literacy in San Antonio. Guests Jacob Cavazos (Senior VP, Community Development Mgr.) and Shawn Hughes (Senior VP, Business Development & Integration Officer) share how their bank is giving back to the community through partnerships, education, and intentional giving. New Leaders Council - San Antonio Donation Link: https://support.newleaderscouncil.org/SupportSanAntonio

On this special episode of SA Talk, hosts Zach and Erika make some big personal announcements related to the podcast. Zach also shares some news about the podcast content going forward.  As a reminder, the voting is still going on for the SA Express-News "Your SA Reader's Choice Awards!" Be sure to cast your vote to name us Best Local Podcast: https://t.co/tSf5yMMlwo

On this episode of Searching For San Antonio, hosts Zachary Espericueta and Erika Perez speak with San Antonio District 3 Councilwoman, Phyllis Viagran. Phyllis shares why she decided to run for city council and what drives her to give back to city she was raised in. The three also discuss why it's important to shop local and how it impacts the community. - Where To Find/Follow D3 Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran: COSA Page: https://www.sanantonio.gov/council/d3 Twitter: https://twitter.com/COSA_CD3 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cosa_cd3/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cosacd3 - This episode is brought to you by Live From The Southside. Thank you to our sponsor for supporting the podcast.

On this week’s episode of SA Talk, hosts Zach and Erika discuss: The MLK march cancelled for the 2nd year in a row.A family is suing their apartment complex for the death of their 7-year old boy.CPS is increasing their rate after a terrible PR year.Seen on Twitter: A questionable sign at Bentley's Beer Garden. Local Recommendation Of The Week (By Zach): Mary Lou's Cafe - 4405 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212

On this episode of Searching For San Antonio, host Zachary Espericueta sits down with April Ancira to discuss how she began in her family's business, how the city (and Ancira) has embraced the UTSA football program, what motivated her to begin her philanthropy and how she handles the "keyboard warriors" out there. - Where To Find/Follow April Ancira: Twitter: https://twitter.com/AprilAncira Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/april_ancira/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GirlWithAHemi - This episode is brought to you by Spectrum Reach & Live From The Southside. Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the podcast.

On this week’s episode of SA Talk, hosts Zach and Erika discuss: What's the whole deal with this new "Noise Ordinance Task Force"?The Search continues for the missing 3-year old, Lina KhilAn SAPD officer gets suspended for what?! --> Remember to vote us Best Podcast For The MySA Readers Choice Awards: https://t.co/BaPplL5i0E Local Recommendation Of The Week (By Erika): Hometown Burger