Fort Worth Forward

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 29

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:54:18 +0000

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 28

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 4 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Worthy Co.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 27

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 16:38:28 +0000

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 26

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Wed, 3 Jul 2024 16:21:29 +0000

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 25

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Wed, 5 Jun 2024 16:25:40 +0000

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 24

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 18:22:42 +0000

In this episode of Fort Worth Forward, I had the opportunity to visit One Safe Place and chat with vital non-profit leaders who are serving at risk members of the Fort Worth community!

This episode includes:

- Ken Shetter, President and General Counsel, One Safe Place
- Kathryn Thalken, Executive Director, The Ladder Alliance
- Stephanie Byrd, Chief Operating Officer, Unbound Now

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 23

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 11:15:00 +0000

Our City is only as strong as our public education system. On January 10th,we hosted a “A Conversation About Education” with Mayor Mattie Parker and leaders in education from the City of Fort Worth. The panel discussion focused on the successes we have achieved and the challenges we are working to overcome.

This episode includes:

Elizabeth Brands – CEO, The Morris Foundation
Dr. Karen Molinar - Deputy Superintendent, FWISD
Kara Waddell - CEO, Child Care Associates
Dr. Dionel Waters – Area Superintendent, IDEA Public Schools
Natalie Young-Williams – Executive Director, T3 Partnership

Check out the latest episode HERE.

Additional, check out the Fort Worth Report reflection of event HERE.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 22

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Fort Worth Forward, I had the opportunity to visit the Botanic Gardens and visit with key community members who are giving back to the Fort Worth community!

This episode includes:

- Patrick Newman, President and CEO, Fort Worth Botanic Gardens
- Steve Montgomery, President and CEO, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
- Melinda Hamilton, Founder, Mothers of Murdered Angels

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 21

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Fort Worth Forward, we spotlight organizations and businesses making a difference in Fort Worth!

This episode includes:

- Lydia Guajardo Rickard, Executive Director, Camp Bowie District Inc. (PID19)

- Alexis Misner, Owner, The Sour Boule Bakery & Café

- Laurie Birko, President and Owner, Camp Bowie Ace Hardware

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 20

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 13:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Fort Worth Forward, we had the opportunity to learn about resources and organizations that exist to support the local Fort Worth area!

This episode includes:

- Kara Waddell, President and CEO, Child Care Associates

- Bill Chinn, CEO, DEC Network

- Jose Alfaro, CEO, CO.STARTERS

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 19

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 11:45:00 +0000

For this episode, we wanted to do something a little different. We hosted a special edition of Fort Worth Forward at Ridglea Theater and focused on homelessness. The 200+ audience in attendance heard about the amazing resources and opportunities available throughout Fort Worth and Tarrant County. Homelessness is an issue facing every major urban environment. Fort Worth is looking at how to solve this issue in a humane way, while at the same time working to keep our city safe and clean. Many non-profits and businesses are working together with government entities to address. This episode features: - Chief Robert Alldredge, Deputy Police Chief, Forth Worth Police Department - Lauren King, Executive Director, Tarrant County Homeless Coalition - Tara Perez, Manager, Fort Worth’s Directions Home Program - Chief Jim Davis, Fire Chief, Fort Worth Fire Department - Debbi Rabalais, Vice President of Program Services, Presbyterian Night Shelter

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 18

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Fort Worth Forward, we showcase some fun summertime activities including a sneak peek of the Fort Worth Zoo's new Predators of Africa and Asia!

This episode includes:

- Ramona Bass, Chair of the Fort Worth Zoological Association

- Michael Fouraker, Executive Director, Fort Worth Zoo

- Mike Brown, President & CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth

- Josie Villa-Singleton, Founder, Eat This Fort Worth Food Tours

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 15

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 30 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Join me as I talk with Scott Wade about The Culinary School of Fort Worth, learn from Natalie Stalmach how our youth are being helped by CASA of Tarrant County and hear about building a small business and being named Jewel Charity Ball's exclusive 2023 jeweler from Kim Sissen with Collections Fine Jewelry.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 14

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 30 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

The first episode of season 2 of Fort Worth Forward is live now! We got a behind-the-scenes look at Archie's Gardenland off Camp Bowie West from legacy owner Randall Archie, and learned about some wonderful area non-profits: Lauren Anton from Saving Hope Fort Worth and Lauren Richard with Camp Fire First Texas

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 16

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 30 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Fort Worth Forward, we talked ALL ABOUT SPORTS IN FORT WORTH! We visited Game On Sports Complex and showcased some individuals making youth sports and sports tourism a top priority. Guests included:

Trevor Armstrong, Owner and Manager of Game On Arena Sports.

Jason Sands, Executive Director of the Fort Worth Sports Commission/ Visit Fort Worth.

Jasmine Henderson, Former professional soccer player, motivational speaker and soccer coach. She is an incredible leader and was a pleasure to have her on the show.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 13

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 30 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

The latest installment of Fort Worth Forward is out now! We went on location to a part of west Fort Worth (and District 3) that is being revitalized with commercial and residential growth. This episode features:

Gigi Howell, JD's Hamburgers
Orlando Carvalho, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Terrence Butler, Academy 4

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 17

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Tue, 30 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

It's Mental Health Awareness Month and I know many of us have been effected by someone going through a mental health crisis. So, we dedicated this episode all to mental health. On this episode, I welcomed:

-Scott Casey, Owner of Ellie Mental Health, Southwest Fort Worth

-Dr. Susan Garnett, CEO of MHMR of Tarrant County

-Hannah Stephens, Director of Social Impact with M2G Ventures

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 2

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Mon, 29 May 2023 02:00:00 +0000

In this episode, I talk with Stacey Pierce, executive director of Streams and Valleys about the growth of the Trinity River and Trails; Jubilee Theatre's managing director, Wambui Richardson & Artistic Director Christie Howard; and, Jenifer Sarver, a communications specialist. And a special musical performance from Jubilee Theatre's Southern Boys.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 1

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Mon, 29 May 2023 02:00:00 +0000

In our inaugural episode, I'm bringing you the gentlemen of LEGACY from Lake Como, Chris Cobler with his new Fort Worth Report and Stefon Rishel, the Executive Chef & Owner of Trident Restaurant Group who most notably helms Wishbone & Flynt.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 12

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

We filmed at one of my wife's favorite shopping places: The Market at Ridglea. I had the privilege to interview:

Amanda Wear, Owner of The Market at Ridglea
Katrina Johnson & Erika Ramos, SteerFW
Reggie Robinson, Funkytown Food Project

Also, thanks to Jennifer Hove, for her suggestion to feature Funkytown Food Project on this episode. My talk with Reggie was very informative on food disparity issues some of our citizens face and what is being done to help.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 3

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

The newest edition of Fort Worth Forward is out now! In this episode, we talk to IDEA Public School's Ana Martinez Shropshire on the state of education, two of your very own Neighborhood Police Officers (NPO's) tell us about the NPO program and how to engage with them when needed and finally Sarah Castillo, owner of Taco Heads and Tinie’s, tell us her story of being a successful entrepreneur.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 4

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

The latest episode of Fort Worth Forward is out NOW. This one includes special guests:

Manya Shorr, Director of the Fort Worth Public Library

Cathy Neece Brown, Executive Director of the James L. West Center for Dementia Care

Cameron Cushman, Assistant VP of Innovation Ecosystems, UNT Health Science Center Fort Worth

Markus Kypreos, Founder of Blackland Distillery

It was a great show talking about the new opportunities in Fort Worth and what the future holds for our great city.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 5

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

This month I took "Fort Worth Forward" on the road to The Shops at Clearfork to witness all the hustle and bustle as people prepare for the holidays.

This episode featured representatives from The Greatest Gift Catalog Ever, Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County, Don't Forget to Feed Me - Pet Food Bank, Inc. and The Shops at Clearfork.

'Tis the season to be thinking of others and these organizations and shops provide the perfect way to give to loved ones and those in need.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 11

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Fort Worth Forward moved farther west to enjoy a good burger and a cold a beer at the new Fred's Texas Café!

Listen to my conversations with:

Quincy Wallace, Fred's Texas Café
Anette Landeros, Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Jesse Herrera, CoAct

It was great to talk about growth on the west side and how small businesses and non-profits can flourish here in Fort Worth. And it never hurts to wrap a shoot with a good hamburger. Enjoy!

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 10

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we visit the new office of Mik Ortho co-locating with Fort Dental on Bryant Irvin to learn more about Dr. Mik's Orthodonist office. In addition we hosted Fort Worth ISD Trustee CJ Evans and Lauren Wessinger of The Mindful Project and Lauren Yoga on her programs and how they're supporting people and police in the DFW area.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 9

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we visit the wonderful BLANC cowork + studio to record our latest episode of Fort Worth Forward.

All podcasts below are linked to their pages, click on the underlined names to go to the podcast webpage.

Guests include:

Mayor Mattie Parker, Fort Worth Mayor and host of Go Time

Jamey Ice, co-host of Stories with Soul

Brinton Payne, co-host of FORTitude

EJ Carrion, co-host of 817 Podcast

The Fort Worth focused podcasts share the best of Fort Worth.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 8

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

The warmer weather inspired me to use Sundance Square as the backdrop of the latest episode of Fort Worth Forward.

Guests include:

Ed Kraus: Chief Security Officer, Sundance Square

Ariel Davis: Co-Owner and Manager of Love Texas Art

Armando Castelán: Artist and Muralist

Russell Kirkpatrick, Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival

Enjoy the episode and get a chance to check out the art, food and fun around our city.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 7

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

I'm happy to debut a new episode of Fort Worth Forward. My guests include:

Trey Bowles, Managing Director of Techstars

Chief Neil Noakes, FW Police Department

Ms. Opal Lee, American Icon & Grandmother of Juneteenth

I hope you enjoy the newest show as much as I did taping it.

Fort Worth Forward - Episode 6

district3@fortworthtexas.gov (Michael D. Crain) — Fri, 26 May 2023 16:00:00 +0000

For this episode, we visited the amazing Dickie's Arena as kick off the 125th year of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Rise & Shine!

Joining me for this episode:

Matt Brockman & Cal White, Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo

J.T. Aughinbaugh, Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate

Becky Renfro Borbolla, Women Steering Business

Jodie Connaughton, Methodist Justice Ministries

Some exciting things are happening over the next few weeks with the stock show and rodeo and there are some incredible organizations impacting Fort Worth.