Hey Amarillo

Hey Amarillo is a weekly, one-on-one interview podcast hosted by Skylar Gallop, and featuring the people and stories of Amarillo, Texas.

America Adame 01/12/2026

America Adame This week on Hey Amarillo, I’m joined by America Adame, Executive Director of the Wesley Community Center in Amarillo’s El Barrio neighborhood. The Wesley provides an incredible range of services that support families and strengthen community, and America stepped into leadership just over a year ago with clarity, confidence, and vision. In our conversation, she shares how she imagined the leader she wanted to become — and then took the steps to make that future real. America also speaks with remarkable courage about her own journey through a very difficult season of life, and how her two young daughters motivate her to model what female excellence, resilience, and leadership can look like. This is a conversation about vision, service, and choosing to lead with purpose — even when the path hasn’t been easy. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39693075

Paul Borchardt 01/05/2026

Paul Borchardt This week on Hey Amarillo, we sit down with Paul Borchardt, who, until very recently, ran one of Amarillo’s most beloved and historic landmarks: Wonderland Amusement Park. Paul’s story starts far from the Texas Panhandle — growing up on a farm in Iowa, serving in the Navy, falling in love, and eventually finding his way to Amarillo, where he joined his wife’s family in running an amusement park that has become part of the fabric of this community. For decades, Paul and his family poured their energy, care, and dedication into Wonderland, creating a place that generations of families return to summer after summer. In this conversation, Paul reflects with pride and genuine enjoyment on the years spent keeping Wonderland going — and on what it feels like to step away after 70 years of family stewardship. He’s sweet, funny, practical, and deeply appreciative of the people who loved the park as much as he did. This episode is about legacy, community, and what it means to take care of something that belongs to more than just one family. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39609815

Laurie Higgins-Kerley 12/29/2025

Laurie Higgins-Kerley This week on Hey Amarillo, we're joined by Laurie Higgins-Kerley, founder of Dove Creek Equine Rescue and Led by Horses, for one of the most moving conversations I’ve ever had about grief. Laurie began this work after the loss of her husband, during a season when she herself was searching for healing. Through her horses, she experienced a kind of quiet, steady restoration—and eventually felt called to create spaces where others could experience that same healing presence. Our conversation explores grief honestly and tenderly. It doesn’t shy away from how painful loss can be, but it also reveals how beauty, connection, and even hope can exist alongside it. Laurie shares how horses help people process emotions without words, how healing doesn’t follow a straight line, and why holding space for grief is one of the most meaningful things we can do for one another. This episode is difficult in places—but it is also deeply beautiful. If you’ve experienced loss, love someone who has, or simply want to understand grief with more compassion, this conversation will stay with you. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39548340

Lorie VanOngevalle 12/22/2025

Lorie VanOngevalle I’m joined by Lorie VanOngevalle, Executive Director of Friends of Cross Bar, for a conversation rooted in fresh air, open spaces, and the joy of being outdoors. Lorie shares her path to a life spent outside — how she found her way into this work and why expanding access to public lands matters so deeply to her. As an outdoorsy woman working to make it easier for people to experience and enjoy the land around them, Lorie brings both passion and practicality to the conversation. This episode is fun, thoughtful, and a great reminder of why our outdoor spaces are worth cherishing, protecting, and actually using. Whether you love hiking, camping, ranch roads, or just being outside whenever you can, this conversation will make you want to step outdoors and look around a little more intentionally. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39490845

Suzanne Bellsnyder 12/15/2025

Suzanne Bellsnyder This week on Hey Amarillo, I’m talking with Suzanne Bellsnyder, a Spearman, Texas resident and a powerful voice for rural Texans across the state. Through her two rural newspapers, a growing online presence, and her work in Texas political circles, Suzanne is helping bring “kitchen table issues” and "serious legislation" affecting rural communities into the statewide conversation. She has a rare ability to connect policy with real life — translating what’s happening at the Capitol into what it means for families, towns, and communities just like ours. Our conversation is thoughtful, honest, and surprisingly funny. Suzanne is smart, passionate, and deeply committed to making sure rural Texans are not just heard, but taken seriously. If you care about rural communities, state policy, or how local voices shape big decisions, this episode is worth your time. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39408970

Warren Coble 12/08/2025

Warren Coble This week on Hey Amarillo, I’m joined by Warren Coble — Potter County Commissioner, pastor, and longtime servant to Amarillo’s North Heights community. From criminal justice to ministry to county leadership, Warren’s life has been marked by a deep love for people and a steady commitment to showing up when it matters most. In this conversation, he shares what he’s learned about leadership, faith, and walking with a community through its hardest moments. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39322635

Gary Pitner 12/01/2025

Gary Pitner In this episode, I sit down with Gary Pitner, a true Panhandle original and one of the most knowledgeable people you will ever meet when it comes to Amarillo and our region. Gary has spent essentially his entire life in Amarillo and more than 40 years serving as Executive Director of the Panhandle Regional Planning Commission. Along the way, he has had a front-row seat to history — from watching the original Amarillo High burn downtown as a child, to helping secure the first medical helicopter for use in the Texas Panhandle. He is not just a leader and planner… he’s a storyteller and a historian with unmatched insight into the people, challenges, and progress that have shaped our community. Gary reminds us that the Panhandle as we know it isn’t very old — and that real, meaningful change takes intention, persistence, and decades of work to move a community forward. This episode is thoughtful, fascinating, and surprisingly fun — full of stories, wisdom, and a deep love for the Panhandle. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39216980

Adam Leathers 11/24/2025

Adam Leathers In this episode, we talk with Adam Leathers, a lifelong advocate for people and communities. Adam currently serves at the United Way of Amarillo & Canyon, but his career has taken him from supporting migrant farmworkers to working alongside unhoused neighbors in Kansas City, and now to strengthening the social safety net here in the Texas Panhandle. Adam brings a sharp intellect, deep compassion, and years of hands-on expertise in understanding what communities truly need to thrive. His perspective on service, dignity, and practical problem-solving offers a powerful look at what it means to help our neighbors — and how we can all play a part. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39145745

Caroline Ellison 11/17/2025

Caroline Ellison This week, we’re joined by Caroline Ellison, one of the area's lead wildlife biologist for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. She’s an expert in her field, but what makes her stand out is her ability to talk about complex ecological issues in a way that’s easy to understand and deeply engaging. In this episode, we dive into the health of our wild spaces, exploring everything from the resilient bison to the iconic horned toad lizard, and beyond. Whether you’re an environmental enthusiast or just curious about the state of our natural world, this conversation is a must-listen! /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/39055330

Katt Massey 11/10/2025

Katt Massey This week on Hey Amarillo, I sit down with Katt Massey—an Amarillo native whose journey has taken her from Dallas to Denver and right back home again. With a background in nonprofit and civic leadership and a memorable run for City Council, Katt has dedicated much of her career to serving this community, especially through the arts. In this conversation, we talk about what it means to show up for your city—even when things don’t go as planned—and how she’s continuing to support Amarillo through her current work in healthcare. Katt is energetic, funny, and refreshingly honest, with a heart that beats for this city and the people who make it home. Tune in to hear how her love for Amarillo has shaped her story—and how she hopes to inspire others to get involved, even (or especially) when it’s not easy. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38967395

Wilson Lemieux 11/03/2025

Wilson Lemieux This week on Hey Amarillo, we’re celebrating a decade of creativity with Wilson Lemieux, founder of Lemieux Company. From humble roots in the Texas Panhandle to producing video content for national sports franchises and cutting-edge tech companies, Wilson’s journey is one of passion, craft, and deep local love. In this episode, Wilson shares what it means to build a company that makes Amarillo proud—how supporting local businesses brings him the most joy, and why reverence for your work and your community matters. We also dive into parenting, navigating life’s seasons, and the balance of building a legacy while raising a family. It’s an honest, heartfelt conversation that shines a light on the power of local creativity and connection. Tune in to hear how Wilson puts his heart into everything—his work, his hometown, and his family. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38892000

Caroline Fairly 10/27/2025

Caroline Fairly This week, Skylar sits down with Representative Caroline Fairly, who represents part of Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle in the state legislature. As the youngest woman ever elected to the Texas House, Caroline brings sharp insight, energy, and a grounded perspective to her work. They talk about her first legislative session—what contributed to her success, how her politically engaged father influences her path, and the priorities she’s carrying forward for her district and region. It’s a thoughtful, candid conversation about leadership, learning, and the next generation shaping Texas politics. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38787710

Delvin Wilson 10/20/2025

Delvin Wilson This week, Skylar sits down with Delvin Wilson, founder and grill master behind Delvin’s Barbecue—a beloved spot in Amarillo’s North Heights neighborhood. Delvin shares his story of growing up working in Houston seafood restaurants, honing his craft in country clubs across the South (including during the Midland/Odessa oil boom of the ’80s), and ultimately bringing his passion to Amarillo. Their conversation goes beyond food, exploring how cooking can be an act of love, care, and community. It’s thoughtful, touching, and, honestly—pretty mouthwatering. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38642985

Josh Craft 10/13/2025

Josh Craft In this episode, we sit down with Josh Craft, a local firefighter and former Amarillo City Council member. Josh shares what it’s like balancing a life of public service—previously in local government, and still on the frontlines as a firefighter. He opens up about leadership and how serving Amarillo in two very different roles has shaped his perspective on what community really means. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38557670

Ryan Hazelwood 10/06/2025

Ryan Hazelwood This week’s guest is Ryan Hazelwood — a friend, mentor, and longtime leader in local TV broadcasting. Ryan’s career has taken him from the classroom to the newsroom, including years as a news director and instructor in the West Texas A&M University Department of Communication, where we first met. In this conversation, Ryan reflects on the relationships that have shaped his life, the evolving world of media, and his approach to leadership. He also shares about his current fight with metastatic cancer — speaking candidly about what that journey has taught him, the importance of early screening and colonoscopies, and the perspective he’s gained through it all. Ryan is funny, sharp, and grounded — and his story reminds us what really matters: connection, courage, and showing up for the people around us. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38475970

Sonya Letson 09/29/2025

Sonya Letson This week’s guest is Sonya Letson, a lifelong advocate for justice and democracy. From serving three terms as Potter County Attorney to her work as a municipal court judge, assistant district attorney, and in leadership with the League of Women Voters, Sonya’s career reflects a deep commitment to fairness, civic health, and the preservation of democratic systems. In our conversation, Sonya shares her pragmatic view of the law—accepting its limits while using its flexibilities to pursue what is right. Smart, quick-witted, and deeply thoughtful, Sonya brings expertise and perspective that feel especially relevant in this moment for our democracy. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38388725

David Elizalde 09/22/2025

David Elizalde David Elizalde: Andrea’s Project and Choosing to “Give a Lot” When David Elizalde’s daughter, Andrea, was killed in a drunk driving accident, his life was forever changed. Out of that tragedy, David created Andrea’s Project, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving and advocating for stronger legislation to prevent it. But David’s story is not just about loss — it’s about resilience, conviction, and love. Through multiple hardships, he shares how he found purpose in his grief. As he puts it: “You can either give in, or give a lot.” This episode is a heartbreaking yet inspiring conversation about what it means to transform tragedy into meaningful change. ⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode discusses loss, grief, alcohol-related harm, and suicide. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38290905

Michael Kashuba 09/17/2025

Michael Kashuba Michael Kashuba: Parks, People, and Public Spaces Michael Kashuba grew up in Canada, but today he’s the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Amarillo. In this episode, Michael shares his journey to Amarillo, what it’s like to oversee the city’s parks system, and how he thinks about outdoor spaces as part of community life. Funny, thoughtful, and deeply invested in Amarillo, Michael brings insight (and a few laughs) about what it means to care for a city and its people through parks and recreation. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38256905

Leila Daraei 09/08/2025

Leila Daraei Leila Daraei grew up in Iran, moved to Amarillo in her 30s, and started her U.S. life working as a janitor at Amarillo College. Today, she’s a professor on the same campus. In this episode, Leila shares her remarkable story — from navigating cultural transitions to the mentors and instructors who believed in her along the way. It’s a conversation about resilience, opportunity, and the power of community support. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38123295

Kyle Groves 09/01/2025

Kyle Groves This week, Skylar sits down with Kyle Groves, a second-generation magician who grew up traveling the country with his parents’ magic show. Kyle shares what it’s really like to live life behind the curtain, from the craft and discipline it takes to become a magician, to the wonder that keeps audiences spellbound. Now preparing to open a one-of-a-kind magic venue in Amarillo, Kyle reflects on his journey, the traditions of the art form, and how magic invites us to step away from the everyday and rediscover that sense of whimsy and childlike wonder. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/38034465

Sarena Carpenter 08/25/2025

Sarena Carpenter In this episode, I sit down with Sarena Carpenter, the new executive director of Amarillo Angels, a nonprofit dedicated to walking alongside families and children experiencing foster care. Sarena’s warmth and sense of calling shine through as she shares both the mission of Amarillo Angels and her deeply personal story. At just 14 years old, Sarena became the primary caregiver for her four-year-old brother—without the support of systems or services that should have stepped in. That experience now fuels her passion and perspective as she leads work to ensure no child or family in foster care falls through the cracks. This is a heartfelt conversation about resilience, leadership, and the power of community to show up where it matters most. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37931485

Matt Le 08/18/2025

Matt Le This week Skylar sits down with her good friend Matt Le — entrepreneur, hustler, motivational speaker, and all-around community builder. Matt’s story is rooted in a unique cultural blend—his father immigrated from Vietnam, his mother is Hispanic—and that mix inspired his food truck, Saigon Señorita. We talk about how food has the power to bring people together and share culture in the most beautiful way. We also dive into his lifestyle brand, Allergic 2 Average, and what it really means to show up in excellence and with honor. Matt’s passion for living above average is contagious, and his wisdom will leave you motivated to push beyond the ordinary. Matt isn’t just a guest—he’s someone I’ve admired and worked alongside for years in community projects. I can’t wait for you to hear his story and be inspired by his perspective. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37852140

Matt Garrison 08/11/2025

Matt Garrison This week, Skylar sits down with Matt Garrison — an Amarillo native, seasoned police officer, and global security expert. From serving small-town Panhandle police forces to traveling the world providing personal protection for high-profile clients, Matt’s career reads like something out of Jack Ryan. Beneath the gruff exterior is someone deeply thoughtful and committed to keeping others safe — whether it’s motorists along I-40, Department of Defense contract executives, or members of a local congregation. We also talk about practical ways to keep yourself and your family safe in a world that feels increasingly uncertain. This is a fascinating and timely conversation you won’t want to miss. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37753135

Heather Manderson 08/04/2025

Heather Manderson This week, Skylar sits down with Heather Manderson—an accomplished actor with a career full of unique and meaningful experiences. Heather is currently involved in a powerful stage production, The Blind, which centers on the 1997 death of Brian Deneke, a member of Amarillo’s punk community. His tragic killing shook the city and exposed deep cultural divides. In this conversation, Heather reflects on the role of theater in shaping how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us—and how storytelling can help us process grief, challenge perceptions, and build empathy. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37642660

Billy 07/28/2025

Billy In this episode, Skylar sits down with Billy, a resident of Transformation Park—Amarillo’s innovative housing initiative for individuals experiencing homelessness. Coming from San Angelo, Billy arrived in Amarillo with nothing but the clothes on his back, leaving behind an unsafe situation. He shares his journey of resilience: from sleeping in shelters and navigating public transportation to securing a job and building a new life. Billy’s story is one of grit, faith, and determination—and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people are given a chance. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37568185

Will Masters 07/21/2025

Will Masters In this episode, Will Masters joins me for a powerful conversation about the natural resources that shape our region—especially water. With a legal background and current work at Ogallala Life and Wildcat Bluff Nature Center, Will brings a deep and thoughtful perspective to the complex challenges we face. We talk conservation, community engagement, and the creative, grounded solutions that could help secure our future. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37467210

Samuel Uwimana 07/14/2025

Samuel Uwimana This week, Skylar sits down with Samuel Uwimana, a Congolese refugee who resettled in Amarillo in 2018. Drawing from his own story and those of fellow African refugees, Samuel founded United Refugee Services to support and uplift the community. Together, they talk about the challenges and triumphs of resettlement, the realities versus perceptions of “coming to America,” and so much more. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37390500

Amanda Mathias 07/07/2025

Amanda Mathias This week, Skylar visits with Amanda Mathias. After working across the state in mental health provider capacities, she was given the opportunity to build programs and systems statewide, which she did successfully, before bringing that expertise back home to get to work on quality and accessible access to mental health services in the Texas Panhandle. Outside of her role as Executive Director of Meadows Institute Panhandle, Amanda is a Texan to the core, mother and wife, and servant leader, all of which she discusses in this episode. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37294655

Doug Loomis 06/30/2025

Doug Loomis In this episode, Skylar visits with Doug Loomis, former superintendent of Amarillo ISD, just as Loomis enters retirement from a 39-year career, not only in education - but all 39 of those years were in Amarillo ISD. They discuss what is best about the district and the challenges it faces but they also dive into what our schools need to succeed, and what it’s like to be the person making some really, really tough decisions. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37199185

Sharon Miner 06/23/2025

Sharon Miner In this episode, Skylar visits with Sharon Miner. Sharon is the Executive Director of Martha’s Home, a women and children’s shelter in Amarillo. Sharon has also held some really interesting previous titles and roles, and brings all of that experience, those stories, and her relentless tenacity and pragmatism to her work and to this episode. /episode/index/show/heyamarillo/id/37100020

Hey Amarillo

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