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If You Denton Know Delaney Smith-Vaughn & Joshua Steven Bryant, now you do.  Denton calls itself an arts town, and Joshua Steven Bryant and Delaney Smith-Vaughn are working to make that true. The two UNT alumni, artists, and educators founded Paper Chair Studios, a Denton nonprofit built to give local artists space, mentorship, and paid opportunities so they can build careers here instead of leaving after graduation. In this conversation, Josh and Delaney share how they found their way to Denton and into art, why the "starving artist" idea doesn't hold up, and how they think about AI and creativity. They walk through the Backdoor Residency at the Greater Denton Arts Council, the Halloween public sculpture mentorship program that paired emerging and established artists with downtown businesses, and the Monster Art Rally that drew more than 650 people. They also talk about Artist Inc., their hopes for a permanent studio space, and why art matters for Denton's economy, identity, and well-being. Guest Bio Joshua Steven Bryant is an artist from China Spring, Texas, who earned his degrees at UNT and now teaches painting and drawing there. Delaney Smith-Vaughn, originally from Mississippi, studied fibers at UNT and works as a career coach in the university's visual arts and design college. Together they founded Paper Chair Studios, a Denton nonprofit focused on residencies, mentorship, and public art opportunities for local artists. Key Topics Covered - How Josh and Delaney came to Denton and found their creative paths - Portfolio careers and the myth of the starving artist - AI, creativity, and the human side of making art - How art and community helped Josh through a difficult season - The Backdoor Residency at the Greater Denton Arts Council - Paper Chair's Halloween public sculpture mentorship program with downtown businesses - Monster Art Rally and putting money directly in artists' pockets - Artist Inc., volunteering, and the goal of a permanent Paper Chair space Timestamps 01:38 - Delaney's path from Mississippi to UNT's fibers program 03:56 - Josh's journey from China Spring to two UNT degrees 06:13 - Art careers, portfolio careers, and the starving artist myth 08:16 - How AI is changing the creative world 12:18 - Finding community through art during a hard time 16:31 - Launching the Backdoor Residency with GDAC 25:14 - How the Halloween sculpture mentorship program came together 30:34 - Funding the program and paying artists fairly 32:44 - Monster Art Rally and its first year turnout 36:48 - Why art matters for Denton Denton Highlights - Greater Denton Arts Council - University of North Texas - Downtown Denton Square - Denton Maker Center - Triptych - Record Supply - Miss Angeline's - Hank's Franks - The Brown Thumb - Barnhart's Barbershop - Bearded Monk - Harvest House - Downtown Denton Foundation Guest Links / Resources - Paper Chair Studios: paperchairstudios.org - Greater Denton Arts Council (Backdoor Residency open studios) - Denton Skelly Hunt (Paper Chair Halloween installation locations) - Artist Inc. (Mid-America Arts Alliance)

If You Denton Know David Baker, now you do. Episode Description David Baker is the City of Denton’s creative specialist and the artist behind Onion, the big purple monster that has become the face of Denton Halloween. A UNT design graduate and muralist, David has spent years building platforms for local artists, from co-founding North Texas Makers to bringing hundreds of creatives into the city’s Halloween celebration. In this conversation with Brad, David shares how a childhood in Bahrain and a family of working artists shaped his outlook, why getting cut from UNT’s design program twice was worth it, and how a chance conversation behind the bar at Armadillo Ale Works launched his career. He tells the unlikely story of how Onion got his name, explains the new Denton Halloween Artist Mentorship Program, and makes the case for more public art and shared creative space in Denton all year long. Guest Bio David Baker is a graphic designer, muralist, and creative specialist for the City of Denton, where he helps lead the creative side of Denton Halloween. A graduate of UNT’s College of Visual Arts and Design, he designed Onion and co-founded North Texas Makers in 2019. He shares Trash Alley Studios with artist Dan Black, just north of the square. Key Topics Covered Growing up near Houston and spending two formative years in BahrainBeing raised by a family of career creativesSurviving UNT’s competitive communication design programLeaving advertising to focus on local businesses and community artPainting his first murals at Armadillo Ale WorksThe creation and accidental naming of OnionOpening Denton Halloween to local artists through pitches and mentorshipBuilding a year-round arts culture and shared creative space in DentonTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction  01:14 - From Shenandoah to Bahrain to UNT  05:37 - Inside UNT’s communication design program  13:44 - Advertising work and first murals at Armadillo  17:20 - Joining the City of Denton and launching Halloween  21:03 - The story behind Onion  26:32 - Founding North Texas Makers  30:34 - The Denton Halloween Artist Mentorship Program  37:13 - Growing Denton’s arts culture year-round  46:10 - Denton favorites Links davidbakerartist.com dentonhalloween.com

If You Denton Know David J. Anzaldua Pierce and Marcus Watson, now you do. David J. Anzaldúa Pierce and Marcus Watson are the co-founders of Denton's Day of the Dead Festival, the event that helped turn Denton into the Halloween capital of Texas. What began in 2011 as a block party on Industrial Street has grown into a month of programming that brings visitors from across the country and beyond to downtown Denton. In this episode, David and Marcus share how they each landed in Denton by way of UNT, the story behind Cirque du Horror, and the surprising origin of Little Guys Movers. They talk about the decision to buy the Big Top tent, keeping the festival rooted downtown, and the role the festival plays for local businesses during their busiest month of the year. Listeners will also hear about this year's coffin races, the new DCTA shuttle, the Denton ISD student art exhibit, and how volunteers and sponsors can get involved. Guest Bio David J. Anzaldua Pierce is a Corpus Christi native and UNT music education graduate who taught band for a decade before writing Cirque du Horror in 2009. Marcus Watson came to Denton from Abilene to attend UNT and co-founded Little Guys Movers in 1992, which now has 14 locations. Together they launched Denton's Day of the Dead Festival in 2011 and continue to lead it today. Key Topics Covered Recapping the first Moonlight Monster Ball and plans for its returnHow David's original musical, Cirque du Horror, sparked the festivalThe Industrial Street Bash and early efforts to bring life to that side of the squareThe founding story of Little Guys MoversWhy the festival stays in downtown Denton and what it means for local businessesPurchasing the Big Top tent and programming it for the 31 Days of HalloweenThe board, volunteers, and grassroots sponsors that keep the festival freeDavid's family connection to Día de los Muertos and the Denton ISD student art exhibitTimestamps 00:00 - Welcome and the Moonlight Monster Ball recap  03:05 - How David and Marcus found their way to Denton  07:03 - The origin story of Little Guys Movers  10:37 - Keeping the festival downtown and its impact on local businesses  16:35 - The Big Top tent and the 31 Days of Halloween  20:02 - The board, volunteers, and sponsorship opportunities  24:16 - Coffin races and the Cirque du Horror show  27:22 - New DCTA shuttle and festival parking  29:27 - Denton ISD student exhibit and the meaning of Día de los Muertos  32:07 - Denton favorites and closing thoughts Guest Links / Resources Denton's Day of the Dead Festival: dentondayofthedeadfestival.comVolunteer sign up: dentondayofthedeadfestival.comCirque du Horror tickets: available through PrekindleLittle Guys Movers

If You Denton Know Terin Andrus, Becca Hobby, and Samantha Sims, now you do. Episode Description North Texas Giving Day brings three guests into the studio at once. Terin Andrus is the vice president of Meg Matters, a Krum-based nonprofit funding mental health resources in schools. Becca Hobby is the community engagement director at Veterans Point, a Denton County organization that supports veterans, service members, and their families through peer connection. Samantha Sims is the chief development officer at Giving Grace, the largest human service provider for homeless families in Denton County. Listeners will hear how each organization started, including the loss that led to Meg Matters and the merger of two small nonprofits that created Giving Grace. The conversation covers what a crisis call actually looks like, why Giving Grace refuses to simply place families in housing without addressing the root cause, and the new Love First campus taking shape near Ryan High School. The group also talks candidly about isolation, screens, and the loneliness epidemic, and about why unrestricted giving is often the most useful dollar a nonprofit receives. Guest Bio Terin Andrus is vice president of Meg Matters, a volunteer-run nonprofit founded in 2021 that funds mental health staff and peer support programs in Krum ISD. Becca Hobby serves as community engagement director for Veterans Point in Denton County, a peer support organization based on an equine therapy ranch in the southern part of the county. Samantha Sims is chief development officer at Giving Grace, a Denton County nonprofit providing shelter, case management, and wraparound services for families experiencing homelessness. All three are active connectors in the county's nonprofit network. Key Topics Covered How Veterans Point uses peer support, hiking, golf, and equine programs instead of clinical-first outreachWhy Giving Grace addresses the causes of homelessness before placing a family in housingThe story behind Meg Matters and getting a Communities In Schools social worker into Krum ISDWhat a real day looks like when a crisis call comes inA Giving Grace family's path from sleeping in a car to nursing classes and a homeThe Love First campus on 15 acres near Ryan High School, including an 80-bed family shelterScreens, isolation, algorithms, and the loneliness epidemicWhy unrestricted funds matter more than most donors realizeConcrete ways to help: referrals, serve teams, monthly giving, and sponsorshipsTimestamps 00:00 - Three nonprofits, one table, and why  01:28 - Becca Hobby on Veterans Point and peer support  04:34 - Samantha Sims on Giving Grace and family homelessness  08:07 - The two nonprofits that merged to form Giving Grace  08:59 - Terin Andrus on Meg Matters and the loss behind it  13:01 - Funding Communities In Schools in Krum ISD  14:54 - A day in the life at Veterans Point  19:12 - From a car in a driveway to a town home and a career path  25:05 - Screens, loneliness, 988, and the Hope Squad  33:10 - Inside the Love First campus project  37:54 - How the community can actually help Guest Links / Resources Veterans Point: veteranspoint.orgGiving Grace: givinggrace.orgMeg Matters: Instagram - @megmatterstxNorth Texas Giving DayGiving Grace gala, Saturday, October 3, Royal Affairs Ballroom, Old Town LewisvilleMeg Matters community walk, late AprilVeterans Point "We've Got Your Six" monthly giving campaign988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, with a dedicated option for veterans

If You Denton Know Glenn Carlton, now you do. Glenn Carlton has been part of the North Texas Fair and Rodeo since 1985, first as a volunteer on the rodeo committee and, since 2005, as executive director. He grew up in Eugene, Oregon with deep family roots in southeastern Oklahoma, rode bulls, and landed in Denton through a beer sales territory that introduced him to the fairgrounds. Nearly four decades later, he leads one of the largest annual events in the county. In this conversation, Glenn walks through the history of the fair, the 800 volunteers and 40 committees who make it run, and the tough years that shaped it, including seven days of rain in 2016 and a pandemic-era move to October. He shares the story of a $500 bonus that kept a young Cody Johnson from quitting music, explains the fair's roughly $22 million impact on Denton County, and gives a preview of the 98th annual event running August 21 through 30, plus what is ahead for the new Expo Center north of town. Key Topics Covered Growing up in Oregon with family roots in the Kiamichi Mountains of southeastern OklahomaRiding bulls, selling beer, and the path that led Glenn to DentonLearning the ropes under longtime rodeo chairman Weldon BurgoonHow 800 volunteers and 40 committees put on a ten day eventThe Cody Johnson story and the $500 bonus he never forgotSurviving a rained out 2016 and pulling off the fair during COVIDScholarships, youth agriculture, and roughly $1 million a year back into the communityThe economic impact of the fair and the vision for the new Denton County Expo CenterTimestamps 00:00 Meet Glenn Carlton, executive director of the North Texas Fair and Rodeo  01:42 Oregon roots, Oklahoma summers, and a fourth generation cattleman  03:04 Riding bulls, a beer sponsorship, and the sales route that led to Denton  04:56 Volunteering under Weldon Burgoon and what the early fair looked like  09:07 From volunteer to executive director in 2005  09:47 The Cody Johnson story and a $500 bonus  12:57 Eight hundred volunteers, forty committees, and a generational tradition  16:27 Hard lessons: seven days of rain in 2016 and running the fair during COVID  19:15 Giving back through scholarships, youth agriculture, and community programs  21:35 Economic impact on Denton and the county  25:46 What is new for the 98th annual fair, August 21 through 30  29:53 The land north of town and the future Expo Center Denton Highlights North Texas FairgroundsFrilly's Seafood Bayou KitchenWeldon Burgoon's saddle shop on East HickoryUniversity of North Texas Business CollegeDenton County Youth FairDenton County Livestock AssociationBlue Ribbon ClubGuest Links / Resources North Texas Fair and Rodeo: ntfair.comVolunteer sign up: ntfair.com, under the Get Involved tab98th Annual North Texas Fair and Rodeo: August 21 through 30, gates at 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 1 p.m. weekendsAdvance tickets available online at ntfair.com

If You Denton Know Nate Hamilton, now you do. Nate Hamilton is the founder and owner of 144 Print House and Race Studio in Denton, Texas. A former Formula Drift professional driver, he competed at the sport's highest level through 2017 before shifting his focus to design, screen printing, and embroidery. His shop serves motorsports brands, YouTubers, and local Denton businesses alike.  Key Topics Covered What drifting is, how it is scored, and why it is closer to skateboarding than racingNate's path from skate parks in Rowlett to the Formula Drift pro circuitThe real cost of competing, from tire budgets to six figure season fundingWhy he walked away from the pro class in 2017 to build a businessHow the "Endless Search for Tires" tour turned a sponsorship gap into an opportunityThe origin of the number 144 and the friend it honorsLessons on scaling a shop through unpredictable demandBuilding a team culture where the right person is in the right seat⸻ Timestamps 00:00 Meet Nate Hamilton and 144 Print House and Race Studio  02:26 Skateboards, screen printing, and the road to drifting  03:11 What drifting is and how it gets judged  07:06 Inside a Formula Drift race weekend  10:35 Why he stepped away from the pro class  12:15 The Endless Search for Tires campaign  14:19 The story behind the number 144  16:31 A chance meeting on the courthouse lawn  21:15 Apex Fest and what to expect  26:54 Every day is Friday and building the right team Guest Links / Resources Website: 144racing.comShop: 1700 Shady Oaks, Denton, TXEvent: Apex Fest, September 5, free to attend. Schedule details at 144racing.comSocial: @144racing Denton Highlights Hannah's Off the SquareQueenie's SteakhouseHarvest HouseEast Side Social ClubThe Denton Square and Courthouse LawnDenton Day of the Dead FestivalTexas Motor Speedway (nearby)

If You Denton Know John Williams, Desmond Moore, and Patrick Blancas, now you do. For more than a decade, John Williams, Desmond Moore, and Patrick Blancas have quietly shaped where Denton goes to unwind. What started as a single house bar just off the square grew into a family of four sister spots known today as EastOak DanGeline's: Oak Street Drafthouse, East Side, Miss Angeline's, and Dan's Silverleaf. All three are UNT grads, and all three came up through the Denton service industry before building something of their own. In this conversation, they share how a Fry Street era bar scene shifted east of the square, why they chose to compete with themselves rather than let outsiders move in next door, and how a pawn shop full of lawnmowers helped them keep nearly their entire staff employed through COVID. They also talk about stepping in to keep Dan's Silverleaf alive, what makes Denton's culture different from a suburban market like Lewisville, and what they hope downtown looks like ten years from now. Guest Bio John Williams, Desmond Moore, and Patrick Blancas are the team behind East Oak Dangelines, the Denton hospitality group that operates Oak Street Drafthouse, East Side, Miss Angeline's, and Dan's Silverleaf. John grew up between Ponder, Krum, and Denton and studied entrepreneurship at UNT before opening his first bar in 2012. Desmond serves as general manager of Miss Angeline's after starting on the door at Oak Street, and Patrick, an El Paso native and UNT marketing grad, came up alongside John behind the bar at Lucky Lou's. Key Topics Covered How each of them landed in Denton and found their way into the bar businessThe Lucky Lou's years and the mentorship that shaped their approachOpening Oak Street Drafthouse and the Austin house bar idea behind itWhy they opened a second bar 500 feet from their firstBuilding a team by giving key employees a piece of the businessKeeping staff paid through COVID with a lawn mowing operation and community supportTaking over Dan's Silverleaf and the decision not to change itThe story behind the Miss Angeline's nameHow Denton's nightlife shifted from Fry Street to east of the squareWhat a Lewisville location taught them about Denton's cultureTimestamps 00:00 - Meet the group behind East Oak Dangelines  01:45 - Denton roots, Ponder, Krum, and UNT  04:06 - How John got his start in the bar business  06:52 - Dan's move to Industrial and the shift east  07:49 - Opening Oak Street Drafthouse  08:25 - Desmond and Patrick talk their way in  11:39 - Why East Side opened just down the street  13:02 - Building a team and sharing the pie  20:10 - The house that became Miss Angeline's  24:29 - Surviving COVID and keeping the staff together  31:00 - Taking over Dan's Silverleaf  35:01 - Lewisville versus Denton  37:30 - The next ten years downtown  39:01 - Denton favorites and shout outs

If You Denton Know Andrew and Isaac Lewis, now you do. Andrew and Isaac Lewis are twin brothers, born and raised in Denton, who turned a childhood hobby into a career producing and directing feature films. Through their company Denton Film, their work has reached screens across the country, all while they choose to build their careers and raise their families right here in Denton. In this conversation, the brothers share how they went from making movies on a VHS camcorder to producing feature films, what it took to leap into the industry full time, and the story behind their directorial debut, Bethesda. They also talk about their new release Man of War, out July 3rd, and why they believe Denton can become a real home for filmmakers. It is a story about passion, risk, and staying loyal to the place that shaped them. Key Topics Covered Growing up as twin brothers in Denton and falling in love with filmmaking as kidsMaking early movies on a VHS camcorder and editing with two VCRsTaking the leap from blue collar and tech jobs into the film industryHow their first feature, Daylight's End, launched a long relationship with director William KaufmanThe founding and evolution of Denton FilmTheir new release Man of War and their directorial debut BethesdaThe growth of the Texas film industry and new state incentivesThe push for a Denton film commission and what would help filmmakers thrive locallyTimestamps 00:00 — Meet Andrew and Isaac Lewis of Denton Film  01:43 — Growing up in Denton and graduating in 1997  03:52 — Making movies as kids with a VHS camcorder  07:25 — Their first feature film opportunity  10:36 — Daylight's End and catching the filmmaking bug  13:51 — The story behind launching Denton Film  19:52 — Man of War arrives July 3rd  21:24 — Directing their debut feature, Bethesda  25:46 — Texas as a growing film destination  36:04 — Favorite Denton spots and closing thoughts Denton Highlights Mi CasitaDan's SilverleafAngeline'sKomodo LocoOaktopia music festivalLittle Guys Movers building near the Downtown SquareGuest Links / Resources Denton Film (production company)Man of War, available July 3rd on VOD, iTunes, and Amazon

If You Denton Know Pat Smith, now you do. Pat Smith is the founder and CEO of Serve Denton, a nonprofit hub that houses 25 partner organizations under one roof and was built entirely without government funding. A Denton native, retired Air Force colonel, and son of two of Denton's most beloved small business owners, Pat brings decades of leadership experience to a mission rooted in his hometown. His story is a window into how one community came together to create something rare in the nonprofit world. In this episode, listeners will hear how Serve Denton went from a vacant church sanctuary to a 10 million dollar campus, why Pat partnered with Toyota to bring world class operations to a nonprofit, and how a difficult Pentagon assignment shaped his approach to servant leadership. It is a conversation about hope, hometown roots, and what it looks like when private investment, faith, and good leadership build something that lasts. Guest Bio Pat Smith is the founder and CEO of Serve Denton, the nonprofit center that partners with 25 organizations to better serve people in need across Denton County. A Denton native and retired Air Force colonel, Pat spent 28 years in the military managing large scale construction and housing projects before returning home to launch Serve Denton in 2012. He is the son of Jim Smith of the legendary Jim's Diner and Rose Smith of Rose Costumes. Key Topics Covered Growing up in Denton and the legacy of Jim's Diner and Rose CostumesPat's 28 year Air Force career, from the Academy to the PentagonThe leadership lessons that shaped his philosophy of servant leadershipHow losing his father became the catalyst for Serve DentonTurning a vacant church sanctuary into a 10 million dollar nonprofit hubPartnering with Toyota to bring the Toyota Production System to nonprofitsWhy Serve Denton operates without government fundingExpanding the model to other Texas cities and beyondTimestamps 00:00 — Guest introduction  01:00 — The original 1976 vision for a human services center  01:45 — Jim's Diner, Rose Costumes, and growing up in Denton  04:35 — From the Air Force Academy to building air bases overseas  07:03 — The Pentagon assignment that defined his leadership philosophy  12:07 — Losing his dad and finding a new calling  15:34 — Launching Serve Denton with Tommy Nelson's blessing  17:21 — Buying the building and the new market tax credit breakthrough  19:38 — Bringing Toyota Production System to the nonprofit world  22:30 — The mission, the model, and staying in their lane  30:24 — Teaching servant leadership to the next generation  37:05 — Denton favorites and upcoming events Denton Highlights Jim's Diner on Fry StreetRose CostumesMetzler's BarbecueDan's SilverleafFine Arts TheaterCartwright's Ranch HouseGuest Links and Resources Serve Denton website: servedenton.orgEmail: [email protected] event: Dragon Boat Races on Lake Lewisville, June 27Upcoming event: Christmas concert with David Pierce at the Fine Arts Theater, December 21

If You Denton Know Tommy Mainord, now you do. Coach Tommy Mainord returns to the University of North Texas in a brand new role, stepping off the football field and into one of the most talked about positions in college athletics. After more than a decade in Denton and a career that took him from Tarleton State to Texas Tech, Kentucky, and back to UNT, Tommy now serves as Senior Associate Athletic Director for NIL and Football Strategy. In this conversation, Tommy breaks down the rapidly changing landscape of college sports, including NIL, revenue sharing, and the transfer portal. He explains how UNT is building its strategy in real time, why local businesses and alumni play such a vital role, and how the success of Mean Green athletics ripples out to lift restaurants, hotels, and the entire Denton community. It is a candid look at where college football is headed and how Denton fits into the bigger picture. Guest Bio Tommy Mainord is the Senior Associate Athletic Director for NIL and Football Strategy at the University of North Texas. A Texas native who grew up around the game as the son of a longtime football coach, Tommy spent seven years as an assistant coach at UNT, helping develop standout players like All American Jaylen Darden. He has coached at Tarleton State, Sam Houston State, Lamar, Texas Tech, and Kentucky throughout his career. Key Topics Covered Tommy's journey from coaches' kid to college coachCoaching stops across Texas, Kentucky, and the Big 12Returning to UNT in a new front office roleThe difference between NIL and revenue sharing explainedThe 21.4 million dollar national rev share capHow technology and AI have transformed recruiting and game prepWhat the next five years could look like for college athleticsHow Denton businesses of any size can get involved with UNT athleticsTimestamps 00:00 Welcome and introduction  01:06 Navigating the new world of NIL  02:08 Growing up as a coach's son  03:07 Choosing baseball, then football at Tarleton State  05:08 Career stops from Lamar to Texas Tech to Kentucky  07:14 Coaching Jaylen Darden at UNT  10:22 The new role and the longest title in college sports  11:26 NIL versus revenue sharing  16:02 How technology changed recruiting and game planning  22:33 How local businesses can get involved  25:22 Favorite spots around Denton Denton Highlights The Denton SquareLocal Mexican food spots around the squareDenton barbecue restaurantsGuest Links and Resources Email Tommy directly at [email protected] of North Texas Athletics: meangreensports.com

If You Denton Know the City of Denton Candidates, now you do. Episode Description Election time is here, and this one is huge. Denton voters are filling four council seats and the mayor position, with early voting ending April 28 and election day on May 2. To help the community make informed choices at the ballot box, every candidate was invited onto the show to answer two simple questions: What do you love most about Denton, and what is your vision for the city if elected? This special episode brings together the candidates for Mayor, District 1, District 2, Place 5, and Place 6 in one place. Each conversation is short, focused, and designed to let the candidates speak for themselves. Use this episode as a tool to learn what each candidate values, where they want to take Denton, and how their priorities line up with yours. Then get out and vote. Key Topics Covered What each candidate loves most about the city of DentonEach candidate's vision for Denton if electedThe values and priorities shaping the 2026 city racesPerspectives from candidates running for Mayor, District 1, District 2, Place 5, and Place 6Why local elections matter for Denton's futureA reminder to participate in early voting and election dayTimestamps 02:22 Mayor 02:37 Chris Watts 15:02 Brian Beck 27:15 Angela Brewer 36:17 District 1 36:33 Michael Herron 42:57 Jordan Villarreal 50:47 Kris Cox 57:59 District 2 58:13 Nick Stevens 1:05:52 Robert J Archer III 1:11:47 Place 5 1:12:07 George Michael Ferrie 1:20:57 Erica Garland 1:28:35 Place 6 1:28:52 Jill Jester Voting Information Early voting ends April 28Election day is May 2Seats on the ballot: Mayor, District 1, District 2, Place 5, Place 6For more information, visit https://www.votedenton.gov/election-day-information/current-and-upcoming-election-information/

If You Denton Know Peter Salisbury, now you do.  From launching a tiny AM station in his living room to building KUZU 92.9 FM into a 24/7 community-powered radio station, Peter shares how passion, persistence, and local music shaped one of Denton’s most grassroots success stories. In this episode, Peter talks about growing up in Texas, falling in love with Denton’s music scene, and the long road to securing an FM license. He explains how KUZU operates entirely with volunteers, how anyone in the community can host a show, and why local voices still matter in a world dominated by corporate media. If you’ve ever wondered how community radio works, how KUZU got started, or how you could become part of Denton’s creative scene, this episode is for you. ⏱️ Key Timestamps 00:00 — Meet Peter Salisbury & the Story of KUZU Radio Peter shares his background in photography and how he found his creative home in Denton. 04:15 — Growing Up in Texas & Finding Denton From Houston to Garland to UNT, Peter talks about why Denton became home. 08:40 — The Birth of KUZU: A Radio Station in a Living Room How an empty bedroom and a small AM transmitter sparked the KUZU idea. 14:20 — From Backyard Radio to FM Licensing The multi-year journey to securing a Low Power FM license. 20:45 — Building KUZU with Volunteers & Community Support How friends, board members, and community members helped bring KUZU to life. 26:10 — How KUZU Programming Works Anyone can apply to host a show and contribute to the station. 31:30 — The Volunteer Model & Funding the Station Why KUZU runs entirely on volunteers and membership donations. 36:50 — Lessons Learned from Building a Radio Station Peter reflects on fear, persistence, and learning as he went. 41:10 — KUZU’s Future & Vision for Growth Plans for expanding programming and eventually owning a dedicated studio. 44:10 — Denton Favorites Peter shares his favorite local spots to relax and recharge. 🎧 Episode Highlights How KUZU started as a tiny AM station in a spare bedroomWhat it takes to secure an FCC radio licenseWhy community radio still matters todayHow KUZU operates entirely on volunteersHow local musicians and creators benefit from the platformWhy anyone in Denton can host their own radio showThe story behind KUZU’s first broadcastLessons learned from building something from scratch📻 About KUZU Radio KUZU 92.9 FM is Denton’s volunteer-powered community radio station. Broadcasting 24/7, KUZU features freeform programming, local voices, independent music, talk shows, interviews, and creative content from over 50 volunteer producers. The station exists to amplify local culture, support independent artists, and give everyday community members a voice on the air. Learn more or apply to host a show: 🌐 kuzu.fm 🍳 Denton Favorites (From Peter)Cartwright’s Ranch House — A go-to spot for breakfast and coffeeJupiter House — Favorite order: smoked salmon bagel with a mochaNorman Roscoe — A favorite stop on the Square🔑 Key TakeawaysBig ideas often start small, sometimes in spare bedrooms.Community-driven projects can thrive without corporate backing.Fear of failure is often the biggest obstacle to starting something meaningful.Local media still plays a powerful role in shaping culture.Denton’s creative community continues to fuel innovation and collaboration.

If You Denton Know Jason Reimer, now you do. On this episode of If You Denton Know, we sit down with musician, filmmaker, and creative director Jason Reimer to talk about one of the most anticipated projects in Denton… the revival of the historic Fine Arts Theatre. Jason has spent years shaping unique cinematic and live experiences through his work at the Texas Theatre in Dallas, as well as through film, music, and multimedia production. Now, he’s bringing that same vision to Denton in a way that’s deeply rooted in the culture and creativity of the community. Brad and Jason dive into what it’s been like working together behind the scenes on this project, why this theatre matters so much to Denton, and what people can expect when the doors finally open. From independent films and live performances to 70MM, 35MM, and DCP projection, the Fine Arts Theatre is set to become a one-of-a-kind destination for cinephiles, creatives, and anyone who loves the arts. This isn’t just a movie theatre… it’s a cultural hub in the making. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Jason’s journey from music to filmmaking to theatre ownershipThe story behind the Texas Theatre and how it was brought back to lifeHow those lessons are shaping the Fine Arts Theatre in DentonWhat makes this theatre different from anything else in the areaThe vision for programming: films, concerts, events, and moreWhy 70MM film projection is such a big dealHow the theatre will serve Denton’s creative communityWhat the renovation process has looked like behind the scenesWhen the community can expect the theatre to openWhy This Matters for Denton The Fine Arts Theatre has been a missing piece of Denton’s cultural landscape for years. Its revival represents more than just reopening a building, it’s about creating a space where film, music, and community come together. With Jason’s experience and vision, paired with a deep commitment to making it feel authentic to Denton, this project has the potential to become one of the most meaningful creative hubs in the city. About Jason Reimer Jason Reimer is a musician, filmmaker, and producer whose work spans music, film, and live performance. He has composed film scores, directed music videos, and worked with major brands like Coca-Cola and Jack Daniel’s. He is co-founder of the Oak Cliff Film Festival and a partner in Aviation Cinemas, serving as Creative Director of the historic Texas Theatre in Dallas. His work continues to push the boundaries of how film and live experiences intersect. Connect & Stay Updated Follow along for updates on the Fine Arts Theatre opening, upcoming programming, and special events as Denton prepares to welcome this iconic space back to life. @fineartsdenton Texas Fine Arts Theatre

If You Denton Know Dr. Carine Feyten, now you do. Chancellor and President of Texas Woman’s University, Carine M. Feyten, PhD joins Brad in The Den for a wide-ranging conversation on TWU’s 125-year legacy, her journey from Belgium to Denton, and what it looks like to lead a “campus with a heart.” They dive into TWU’s woman-focused mission, whole-person development, major campus growth, the new Health Sciences Center, and why athletics has become a powerful front door to the university. Key Topics Covered TWU’s 125-year history and the university’s mission todayBelgium upbringing, bilingual roots, and what brought her to the U.S.Language as “windows on the world” and why it shapes leadership“Campus with a heart” and whole-person development (mind, money, health, purpose)New Health Sciences Center and interprofessional education modelAviation program launch and finding unmet needsTWU athletics growth, national rankings, and academic excellenceBuilding visibility, partnerships with Denton, and lessons from leadershipAdvice to young women on leadership, courage, and failing fastDenton favorites and places she lovesTimestamps 00:00 Intro: Belgium to Denton, institution-builder, and TWU’s defining chapter02:17 TWU at 125 years and why the mission still matters04:44 What it means to be a university system and the women-focused distinction07:15 Growing up bilingual in Belgium and switching languages in school09:11 Why she came to the U.S. and choosing to stay12:33 “Languages are windows on the world”19:07 First impressions of Denton and what sealed TWU for her20:04 “Campus with a heart” and why it took off21:45 Whole-person development, wellbeing, and why TWU “walks the talk”26:14 The new Health Sciences Center, interprofessional education, and rural clinics30:27 Aviation program, women in pilots, and building programs fast35:33 Athletics, campus spirit, and why sports are the front door39:05 Big decisions, identity, and focusing on TWU’s “gift to the table”41:16 Missteps, listening, and building relationships with the city48:07 Advice: leadership without titles, bravery over perfection51:55 Where to follow her and learn more about TWUMemorable Moments and Takeaways A women-focused environment changes who steps up. With fewer men on campus, women lead more naturally and consistently, building confidence and voice.Education is bigger than academics. TWU’s wellbeing focus is designed to help graduates thrive in health, finances, relationships, and purpose.The Health Sciences Center is about teamwork. Interprofessional education mirrors real patient care and strengthens outcomes, especially for rural communities.Find the niche, fill the gap. Aviation and women’s wrestling are examples of identifying needs others have not addressed.Leadership is built, not granted. Titles do not make leaders. Curiosity, courage, and contribution do.Guest Bio Dr. Carine Feyten is the Chancellor and President of Texas Woman’s University. A native of Belgium and fluent in five languages, she is a published scholar and higher education leader who has guided TWU through major growth, new programs, and an expanded statewide footprint while strengthening the university’s distinctive woman-focused mission and culture of care. Follow Dr. Feyten on social media! @twupres

If You Denton Know Joshua Butler, now you do. Joshua Butler, founder of Thin Line Fest, joins Brad to talk about what it takes to build a lasting creative institution in Denton. They unpack Joshua’s path from Houston to UNT, the early days of Texas Filmmakers, and why Thin Line has stayed rooted in documentary storytelling for nearly two decades. Joshua also previews what’s coming March 18–22, including films, music, photography exhibits, and new late night dance parties, plus the behind the scenes challenges of funding, venues, and competing for premieres in a crowded festival landscape. Key Takeaways How Texas Filmmakers started as a student organization and became a lasting nonprofitWhy Thin Line focuses on documentaries, and what “truth” really means in filmWhat makes Thin Line Fest unique: downtown, walkable, volunteer driven, and freeA preview of Thin Line Fest March 18–22 (film, music, photo, and new additions)The real logistics: venues, budgets, staffing, premieres, and competing with bigger marketsJoshua’s career path from local media to major event production, then the pivot during COVIDDenton community culture, darts, favorite hangs, and a documentary recommendationLearn more about Thin Line Fest: March 18–22 in downtown Denton. Film, music, photography, and late night events, all walkable and volunteer driven. Find the full schedule and details at Thin Line Fest online. https://www.thinline.us/