Shows
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsTony Phan: A Decade of Determination on the Road to UT Tyler's School of MedicineHave you ever clung to a dream through the thickest and thinnest of times? Meet Tony Phan, whose dogged persistence carried him from serving in the U.S. Air Force as a medic to entering the historic first class at the UT Tyler School of Medicine. Take a deep dive into Tony's unwavering pursuit of the white coat, a journey spanning more than a decade of applications, with each rejection fueling his determination rather than deterring his dream. Hear Tony's story — rich with the spirit of perseverance that underpins the medical profession. Uncover the role of his military background an...2024-05-2309 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsJohn Soules: An East Texas Family Food Empire Contributing to Health and WellnessIf you've eaten fajitas in East Texas, you've likely enjoyed the offerings of John Soules Foods, Inc. Uncover the evolution of this family-owned Texan gem with John Soules, Sr., the visionary behind the company. Follow the journey from a modest restaurant to a national sensation, and peek behind the curtain of this culinary success story , including the strategic pivot from food service to retail. Learn how the near-perfect timing of that decision serendipitously aligned with the onset of the pandemic, and how that catapulted the company's retail line of beef and chicken fajitas to new heights.Soules a...2024-05-1513 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsBrigham Willis: UT Tyler Medical School Year One and Construction UpdateDiscover a revolution in medical education as Dr. Brigham Willis of the UT Tyler School of Medicine shares the milestones achieved by this new medical hub, from the inaugural class's successful first year to the fully-funded tuition for the second class of 40 students, all with deep roots in East Texas. Delve into the school's mission to foster healthcare excellence right in the heart of the community and the surge of interest witnessed with over 6,000 applicants eager to embark on their medical journeys. June 2024 is expected to bring groundbreaking progress in graduate medical education and vital community health initiatives, focusing...2024-05-1011 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsAmanda Hortman: Revolutionizing Education with Tyler ISD's Early College High SchoolUnlock the secrets behind the innovative academic model of Tyler ISD’s Early College High School with me, Mike Landis, as we sit down with Principal Amanda Hortman and examine how this school is transforming the educational landscape in East Texas. Our enlightening discussion peels back the layers of a program that not only grants high school students an associate's degree but also challenges the conventional wisdom around the necessity of a college education in today's job market. Discover the compelling stories of students who, through a blend of academic rigor and practical skills, are redefining what it means to...2024-05-0811 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsCheryl McCullumsmith and Lynn Rutland: Mental Health Challenges in East TexasWhen the weight of the world seems to rest on our shoulders, it's the voices of experience and compassion that can guide us towards the light. In a heartfelt journey through the challenges of mental health in East Texas, we sit down with Dr. Cheryl McCullumsmith from UT Tyler School of Medicine and Lynn Rutland, CEO of the Andrews Center, to confront the region's distressing suicide rates. They open up about the upcoming summit that promises to forge a path to better support systems, and how breaking down the stigma attached to psychiatric illnesses is crucial for healing. We...2024-05-0618 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsScott Martinez: Revitalizing Tyler's Urban Spaces Following Chattanooga's ExampleUnlock the blueprint of successful urban transformation with a tale of two cities: Chattanooga's remarkable metamorphosis sets the stage for Tyler, Texas, where economic vigor is on the rise. We're not just talking about any old growth here; it's the kind of boom that reshapes a city's identity and future. Tyler's civic and business leaders are back from a study mission, brimming with insights on how to replicate Chattanooga's success—from gig-speed broadband to a vibrant downtown renaissance. Our conversation with Scott Martinez, the maestro behind the Tyler Economic Development Council, reveals the secret sauce of creating a community wh...2024-05-0313 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDon Warren: How Innovation and Infrastructure Are Steering Tyler's GrowthMayor Don Warren walks through the dynamic changes shaping the City of Tyler, from Eclipse Mania, to the nostalgic reopening of the Mayfair building, and the serendipitous story of a namesake Canadian visitor, capturing the essence of Tyler's hometown spirit. Get the latest information about the new Blackstone Hotel and share a laugh over an amusing oversight during a public announcement—all underlining Mayor Warren's unwavering optimism for what lies ahead.Our city's heart is set on a downtown transformation, taking cues from Chattanooga's own renaissance, but with a Tyler twist. We're not just constructing buildings; we're cr...2024-04-2918 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Barbara Haas: Addressing the Nationwide Nursing Shortage Through Innovation at UT TylerWhat's being done locally to address the national nursing shortage? Dr. Barbara Haas, Dean of the School of Nursing at UT Tyler, explains the root causes and the innovative measures being adopted to tackle this crisis. Understand the effects of the declining college-age population and the evolution of higher education's role, while getting an exclusive look into the pioneering strategies of UT Tyler, from year-round programs and online learning to the exciting collaboration with the new UT Tyler School of Medicine. Dr. Haas shares her expertise on the expansion of nursing facilities, the irreplaceable value of simulation in training...2024-04-2216 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsKyle Penney: Celebrating Generosity's Impact on East Texas Through Giving DayUnlock the transformative power of philanthropy with Kyle Penney, president of the East Texas Communities Foundation (ETCF) as he explores the impact of East Texas Giving Day on local communities. Discover how this extraordinary event is not just about meeting donation goals. it's a celebration of generosity that unites 32 counties in a common goal. East Texas nonprofits, big and small, receive a lifeline through the collective efforts of individuals ready to make a difference. From the simplicity of online donations to the personal touches of celebration pages, this effort demonstrates how easy and fulfilling it is to contribute to...2024-04-1911 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsRichard Kenney: Social Work Program Accreditation and Community Impact at UT TylerImagine embarking on a journey of hope and hard work, one that leads to the proud moment of celebrating 18 graduates earning their bachelor's degrees in social work. Richard Kenney and Ericka Freeman are the driving forces behind earning accreditation for UT Tyler's Bachelor of Social Work program. In our conversation, Keeney explains what accreditation means, not just for the graduates but for the countless lives they are set to transform, particularly in East Texas's underserved communities.Beyond the academic milestone, accreditation and the graduation of the first social work class reinforces the essence of community and the...2024-04-1710 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Sarah Roberts: Exploring the Rich Legacy of Jazz and Music Education at UT TylerDiscover the heartbeat of America with Dr. Sarah Roberts, interim director for the School of Performing Arts at UT Tyler, as she unravels the profound legacy of jazz during Jazz Appreciation Month. Gain insights into how this American art form, steeped in the melting pot of New Orleans, has left an indelible mark on our culture. From the historic rhythms of African American communities to the transformative sounds of Delta and Chicago blues, pay homage to the genre and its pioneers like Duke Ellington, while also spotlighting the fresh vibrancy brought by contemporary greats such as Maria Schneider. Learn...2024-04-1213 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsRichard Lee: The East Texas Symphony Orchestra on Eclipses and Friday Night LightsAs the cosmos aligns for a total eclipse in East Texas, we're joined by Richard Lee, the musical director of the East Texas Symphony Orchestra, for a conversation that promises to be as mesmerizing as the stars themselves. Lee discusses ETSO's upcoming symphonic celebration that will marry the majesty of classical music with the cinematic splendor of composers like John Williams, Strauss, and Holst. He discusses the magic behind curating a soundtrack for the skies, the exhilaration of pairing this auditory feast with the visual spectacle from TJC's Earth and Space Science Center.Meanwhile, on the terra...2024-04-0517 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsAmanda Herterich: Unveiling the Architectural Legacy and Future of Historic TylerEmbark on a historical voyage through the charming streets of Tyler with Amanda Herterich, the mind behind Historic Tyler, as your guide. Uncover a legacy of architectural splendor, with an exclusive peek into five homes that stand as testament to bygone eras, from the flourishes of the 1890s to the bold statements of the 1970s. Explore the Wiley-Kessler House's Queen Anne elegance and the Childers Wiggins House's Spanish Colonial magnetism, and do more than just learn about the bricks and mortar—celebrate the stories these walls have witnessed. This is a heartfelt homage to the memories that shape our ve...2024-04-0209 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Beau Hartweg: Experiencing Tyler's First Total Solar Eclipse in Over a CenturyPrepare to unravel the cosmic spectacle of Tyler, Texas's first total solar eclipse since 1878—an event so rare it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. With the expert insights of Dr. Beau Hartweg, director of the Earth and Space Science Center at Tyler Junior College (TJC), peel back the celestial curtains to reveal the sun's elusive corona and the surprising appearance of stars and planets in broad daylight. Walk through the City of Tyler's meticulous preparations for the "Totality Tyler" event and share crucial tips on how to safely watch this awe-inspiring phenomenon without risking your precious eyesight.Step outside th...2024-04-0110 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Colleen Swain: Opening Educational Pathways from Community Colleges to UT TylerUnlock the secrets behind successful academic pathways as we sit down with Dr. Colleen Swain, a beacon of knowledge in the realm of education. Discover the powerful strategies that Texas, a state leading the charge, employs to boost the transfer rates from community colleges to four-year institutions. With Dr. Swain's expert insight, we wade through the data to understand why only a fraction of students make the leap and how UT Tyler and local community colleges are changing that narrative with innovative partnerships like the Patriot Promise.Feel the passion behind Dr. Swain's words as she paints...2024-03-2710 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsKim Bush: Cultivating Health and Wellness in East Texas' Rural CommunitiesDiscover the transformative power of spring and explore its impact on health and wellness with Kim Bush, director of the UT Tyler Center for Community and Rural Health Education. Learn about the "Spring Into Good Health" health fair, which brings to light the remarkable efforts to educate on managing blood pressure, fostering cancer awareness, and providing affordable vaccinations. Bush details the fair's pivotal role in catalyzing a healthier lifestyle and its connection to a broader initiative, including year-round workshops that tackle not just physical ailments but the disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural communities. The fair is...2024-03-2011 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Ken Wink: Texas' Political Climate After the March Primary ElectionsPrepare to navigate the politically charged terrain of Texas with Dr. Ken Wink from UT Tyler, as we dissect the seismic shifts from the March 2024 primary elections. Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton played a high-stakes political chess game that has set a new precedent. But how will this power play shape the Lone Star State's electoral future. From the fall of school voucher opponent Travis Clardy to the eye-opening UT Tyler poll results, discover how Texans feel about their governor's stance on economy and border policies, and see how these sentiments stack up against President Biden's a...2024-03-1213 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Kyle Gullings: The 'Gridiron Symphony' Celebrating Texas High School FootballStep onto the orchestral playing field as Dr. Kyle Gullings, music professor at UT Tyler unveils his "Gridiron Symphony," a piece that captures the essence of Texas high school football in a way never before seen in the concert hall. Commissioned by the East Texas Symphony Orchestra, this composition plays homage to the gritty Friday night lights, blending the adrenaline of the sport with the poise of symphonic music. Dr. Gullings recounts the year-long creative journey and his deep dives into local football lore, and his process for understanding the highs and lows of Texas football as a South...2024-03-1114 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Howard Patterson: The Blueprint for Collegiate Athletic Excellence at UT TylerFrom a philosophy student to the forefront of collegiate sports, Dr. Howard Patterson's journey is nothing short of remarkable. As UT Tyler's Assistant Vice President for Athletics, he's seen the inside curve of the track, guiding UT Tyler Athletics' ambitious shift from Division III to II. Dr. Patterson recounts the strategic play-by-play of building an athletic program from the ground up, the excitement of watching student-athletes flourish, and the nitty-gritty of juggling a bustling athletic department. Dr. Patterson also shares tales of UT Tyler alumni who have sprinted beyond the finish line, like Brittany Mahomes, whose post-collegiate e...2024-03-0816 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Kerri Camp: The Economic Impact of Totality Tyler's Solar Eclipse EventDr. Kerri Camp says the much-anticipated "Totality Tyler" Solar Eclipse could lead to an "astronomical" economic impact that will ripple through Smith County . Can this celestial marvel really inject a hundred million dollars into the local economy? Explore the potential for hotels, restaurants, and small businesses eager to turn this four-day spectacle into a revenue extravaganza. Uncover how a strategic blend of community development projects and East Texas hospitality might just leave a lasting legacy and transform Tyler into a tourism beacon.As the excitement builds for "Totality Tyler," Camp pulls back the curtain on the meticulous...2024-03-0610 min
UT Tyler Radio ConnectsDr. Joe Provencher: The Strategic Genius of UT Tyler's National Debate SuccessesPrepare to be captivated as Dr. Joe Provencher, the genius behind UT Tyler's debate team resurgence, recounts how he steered a floundering program to national victory. After his transition from Texas Tech to the triumphs of debaters like Mason Romaley and Ayush Kumar, Dr. Provencher's story isn't just about debate, it's a testament to the power of strategic communication and the art of persuasion. Explore the fast-paced world of college parliamentary debate, and see how these students become masters of rhetoric, ready to tackle careers in law, education, and beyond.More than just an exploration of academic...2024-03-0415 min