The Public Affairs Podcast

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston talks to Jasmine, a young woman who drove 18 hours to Houston with a dream, only to face homelessness and find hope at the Covenant House. She shares her powerful story of resilience and determination. Joining Jasmine is Anthony Flynn, CEO of the Covenant House, who discusses the organization's mission to provide housing and career development services to young people ...

In this episode of the Public Affairs Podcast, host Sky Houston is joined by Ashley Turner Captain, daughter of the late Mayor Sylvester Turner. They're discussing the 18th annual Family Day in the Park, a free event celebrating the mayor's life and legacy. Ashley shares her dad's vision for the event, which includes keeping it free and accessible to the community. They also talk about the importance of honoring her dad's legacy an...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, Sky Houston chats with Priscilla Stoler about the 19th Annual Tour Day Houston. Priscilla shares how the event has generated over $1 million for the City of Houston, supporting initiatives like the Replant Houston program, which beautifies the city with trees. She highlights the importance of trees in purifying air and water, and how the event brings the community together. Meanwhile, ...

In this episode of the Public Affairs Podcast, host Sky Houston is joined by Damon Hoyle, co-founder of Framing the Moment, an editorial media movement highlighting local talent in Houston. Damon shares the story behind his initiative, which aims to elevate the city's creative community and provide opportunities for actors, directors, and creatives. With a focus on social media and community engagement, Framing the Moment is changi...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston sits down with Dana Darden, the principal executive administrator for Bethel's Family Christian Academy. They discuss the school's expansion and groundbreaking ceremony, where they'll be serving students from 18 months to fifth grade. Dana shares the school's unique approach to education, focusing on small group settings and individualized instruction. The conversation...

In this episode of the Public Affairs Podcast, host Sky Houston discusses The Houston Affordable Housing Road Show, with guest Monique Winston who shares insights on breaking down barriers to home ownership. She discusses the myths surrounding affordable housing, including the misconception that you need 20% down or that interest rates are too high. Monique highlights the importance of education and resources, such as credit counse...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston is joined by Felicia Flores, founder of BaldieCon, a community for those affected by alopecia. Felicia shares her personal journey with alopecia, from her initial struggles with hair loss to finding empowerment and confidence in embracing her baldness. She discusses the importance of community and inclusivity, and how BaldieCon aims to provide a safe space for people t...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston is joined by Stacy J. Harrell, the writer and director of the stage play "Smoke Screens 2.0". They dive into the real-life inspiration behind the production, which tackles the tough topic of domestic violence and the masks people wear. Stacy shares the personal story that sparked the play, and how it's a multifaceted exploration of healing, redemption, and the importan...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston is joined by Krystal Jackson, CEO of Houston Strong Children's Services. Krystal shares the mission of her organization, which focuses on providing wrap-around services to families in need, including kinship support, non-traditional therapy, and crisis intervention. She discusses the importance of addressing trauma and providing a support system for families, especiall...

In this episode with host Sky Houston, we're celebrating 40 years of Ed Ryland's remarkable journey with ARVO Realty. Ed shares his inspiring origin story, from starting the business with his wife in their kitchen to becoming a respected figure in the industry. He talks about overcoming obstacles, including being a minority in commercial real estate, and how he achieved the prestigious CCIM designation. Ed's daughter, Tiffany, join...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston chats with Meredith Johnson, Executive Vice President of Communications at Metro. They're discussing how to navigate Houston's busy streets during the rodeo season. Meredith shares the benefits of using Metro, including its ease, affordability, and safety features. From parking and traffic woes to the new Metro fare system, they dive into the details of getting around ...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston chats with Greg Carter, a veteran filmmaker and professor at the University of Houston. They dive into the city's growing film industry, with Greg sharing insights on the state's new film program and its potential to put Houston on the map. He also talks about his own experiences as a filmmaker, including his hit TV series "Fifth Ward," and the importance of giving bac...

In this episode of the Public Affairs Podcast, host Sky Houston is joined by Jeffrey Campbell and Erica Rouse from Allies in Hope, an organization fighting to end the HIV epidemic in Houston. They discuss the alarming number of new HIV diagnoses in the city, with over 1,200 cases annually, and the importance of addressing non-medical determinants of health like poverty, housing insecurity, and mental health stigma. Jeffrey and Jess...

In this episode of the Public Affairs Podcast, host Sky Houston chats with Ms. Monica Brown Adeeko and Ms. Carlotta Outley Sinclair from the IVY Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston. They're gearing up for their annual fashion show, celebrating style, scholarship, and service. The event aims to uplift young people in the community while showcasing local beauty and creativity. The ladies share the foundation's mission, w...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston talks legacy and community with Dr. Kenneth Williams and Dr. DeAndrea Hughes, organizers of the Culture Parade in Northeast Houston. They discuss the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the impact of community engagement on the area's history and identity. The conversation highlights the significance of the parade in bringing people together and promoting ci...

In this episode of the Public Affairs Podcast, host Sky Houston chats with Christine Holland, CEO of Rebuilding Together Houston, about their mission to preserve the character of the city, one home at a time. Christine shares the organization's history, from its humble beginnings as a response to social services cuts in the 80s to its current efforts to revitalize neighborhoods. They discuss the importance of community involvement ...

In this episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston talks to Jacklyn Minimah- Wilson, CEO of Literacy Now, about the importance of reading and literacy in Houston. They discuss the alarming statistic that nearly 73% of third-graders in Houston are not reading at grade level, and the consequences that follow. Jacqueline shares her personal story of falling in love with reading in the third grade and how it's shaped her m...

In this episode of the Public Affairs Podcast, host Sky Houston delves into the pressing issue of dementia, discussing its impact on underserved communities. Joining the conversation is Dr. Dona Murphey, a neurologist and neuroscientist, who shares her expertise on the disease. They explore the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's, the importance of early diagnosis, and the role of lifestyle choices in preventing or slowing ...

What is Rich? with Jerome D. Love In this overflow episode of the Public Affairs podcast, host Sky Houston welcomes Jerome D. Love, founder of the Texas Black Expo and creator of the docuseries "What Is Rich?" Jerome shares his personal journey to understanding what it means to be rich, and how that definition has evolved over time. He explains how his initial perception of wealth was tied to material possessions, such as a jet and...