Voices from the Hill Country

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: An Insightful Conversation with Darrell Parsons

In this episode, we sit down with Darrell Parsons, a licensed clinical social worker and the director of San Antonio's Fiesta Youth, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. We delve into the various challenges faced by young people in the LGBTQ+ community, including issues of acceptance at home and in society.
In honor of Pride Month, we also discuss the upcoming Riverside Pride Festival, taking place on June 8th at the Comal County Fairgrounds in New Braunfels. This informative conversation sheds light on the importance of mental health, the role of supportive parents, and the crucial services provided by Fiesta Youth, including their unique programs like LGBTQ prom and parent education meetings.
Tune in to learn more about how Fiesta Youth is making a difference and how you can get involved.

From Grass to Grace - A Journey from Homelessness to the Court of Appeals

In this episode of Conversations from the Hill Country, host Adam West has an in-depth talk with the inspiring Maggie Ellis, a Democratic candidate for the Third Court of Appeals, place two. Maggie's personal tale is one of perseverance and triumph over adversity, having gone from a life of poverty and homelessness to being a prominent attorney and defender of children's and families' rights.
Maggie recounts her diverse career in law, which includes roles as a private practitioner, Travis County prosecutor, and administrative law judge, and how her own experiences add a unique perspective to her role in court. Ellis, the sole woman in Texas to have national certification in child welfare law while also being state-board certified in juvenile law, primarily works with children in the CPS and juvenile systems.
Further discussions revolve around Maggie’s childhood marked by instability, homelessness, and maternal abandonment, and how she rose above it all, becoming an educator, a foster mother, and eventually achieving a law degree at age 40 to assist those in comparable circumstances.
The dialogue provides a fascinating deep dive into the workings of the Court of Appeals and a judge's responsibilities, as well as the differences between Supreme Courts on a national and state level, the intricacies of various stages of appeal, and the intersection of politics and law.
The episode also highlights some important cases including Lawrence v Texas and Roe v. Wade, showcasing her profound understanding of the legal framework. Maggie shares her active participation in charities and nonprofits, explains her campaign tactics, comparisons with her competitor Justice Edward Smith and her concept of efficient justice delivery.
The conversation rounds up with Maggie underscoring the significance of every vote in the forthcoming runoff election, reflecting her unwavering commitment to public service and her persistent quest for justice and positive transformation in the court system.

A Conversation with Dr. Kristin Hook

Welcome to 'Conversations from the Hill Country', hosted by Adam West. This episode features an enlightening talk with Dr. Kristin Hook, a Democratic candidate for the Texas 21st Congressional District. As a scientist, former educator, and active participant in policy, Dr. Hook is crusading to balance the scales for working families and society's underdogs.
In this episode, we discuss her campaign's key focuses: women's rights, reproductive issues, accessible healthcare, and safeguarding our democracy. Learn about her strategies to endorse women's rights in Texas, amidst the tightening abortion laws, and how she believes that it's not just about personal beliefs, but about facilitating healthcare access for every woman.
We also cover campaign finance reform, as Dr. Hook identifies the gap between politicians and their constituents due to financial contributions from specific interest groups overpowering public voices. Moreover, we shed light on controversial issues surrounding banned books and the potential privatization of public education, providing an insight into the present state of American politics.
Together, we navigate the influential voices in media, challenges linked to it, and the potential threat of misinformation influencing politics and public service. Highlighting the significance of education and training, Dr. Hook advocates for long-term investments in these areas, outlining their benefits to our nation's prosperity.
This thought-provoking episode offers insights into the changing media landscape, political practices, and the urgent need to confront these issues to maintain integrity and truth in our systems. Join us and illuminate your understanding of the need for change in our media and political structures.

An Insightful Journey into Voting Rights and Political Evolution with Dr. Leonard Lira

This episode welcomes Dr. Leonard Lira, Chair of Public Policy in Higher Education and decorated Army Veteran, as he explores America's political evolution, the foundation of American democracy, and contemporary voting rights. Discover how primary and general elections shape our political landscape as we delve into the complexities and challenges of voters today. Understand strategic patterns in American politics through a historical lens with Dr. Lira's insightful commentary.
Follow the transformative journey of a woman who went from indifferent voter to active democratic participant, as she navigates voter registration complexities. Understand the deep-seated issue of inadequate voter education and its effects on young voters from the University of Houston's Election Lab. Tackle obstacles such as disjointed public service announcements and the strenuous system of voting by mail that discourages participation.
We also expose the issue of gerrymandering and its detrimental effect on voter disillusionment, coupled with the electoral college system, we make a compelling call for an improved voter education system.
Join our host Adam West as he interviews Dr. Len Lira about the importance of the democratic system and the power of the vote. With experiences from voting in the military to his current standpoint as a Democrat, Dr. Lira provides a nuanced perspective on political affiliation. He emphasizes the crucial role of regular voter education, media information dissemination, and integrity in our democratic institutions.
This episode ends optimistically, with faith in the American democratic system and the belief that constitution adherents will prevail amidst the challenges. Tune in for a captivating and thought-provoking look at democracy in America.

A Deep-Dive with Senatorial Candidate Dr. Merrie Fox

In this episode of "Conversations From The Hill Country," host Adam West sits down with Dr. Merrie Fox, a seasoned educator and Democratic candidate for Texas Senate District 25. We talk about the enduring and oft-controversial subjects surrounding Texas's education system, including the proposed voucher bill, school funding, and public school indoctrination fears.
We take a look at the complex issues of religion's infiltration into the education system, political sway on education, and the struggle for equal representation of diverse religions in a learning environment. Our discussion includes the alarming trend of diminishing public school libraries, the adverse effects of static school funding, and the controversial topic of school vouchers.
We also talk about school safety measures, specifically the proposal of arming teachers, and hear a first-hand account from Dr. Fox, a former principal staunchly opposed to such measures. Also, get a glimpse of Dr. Fox's principled stance on practical firearm regulation and her critique of fear mongering tactics disrupting sensible legislation.
Other topics include serious environmental concerns haunting Texas, including the degradation of water systems and the faults within the energy sector, particularly ERCOT. As the conversation concludes, follow the personal journey of Dr. Fox's campaign trail, her approach of servant leadership, and her commitment to understanding and addressing the concerns of Texas citizens.
Be ready for an eye-opening discussion that explores the pressing issues in Texas and the steps Dr. Merrie Fox plans to implement as a senator to make a difference for Texans. Listen, reflect, and be part of this important dialogue.

Michelle LoweSolis on the Power of Your Vote

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Conversations from the Hill Country, hosted by Adam West. In this episode, we sit down with Michelle LoweSolis, an executive committee member for the state Democratic Party in Senate District 25 and co-chair for the Bexar County Democratic Communications Committee.
With extensive experience and a 36-year background in the Department of Defense, Michelle brings precious insights into unified messaging for the party and many more themes closely tied to the realm of politics. Listen as she sheds light on her sterling service with the U.S. Air Force, her experience during the 9/11 Pentagon attacks, and the multiple threats she recognizes facing the nation.
Our esteemed guest provides a deep dive into her work with the Democratic Party, initiatives to establish strong ties across counties in Senate District 25, and the bold ambition of converting Texas into democratic terrain. They pinpoint the significance of effective communication in channeling updates and the necessity of united messaging for garnering public interest and communicating the power of their vote.
We shift the focus onto the ever-critical women's rights scene and discuss the worrisome voter turnout numbers in Texas. Our guest offers invaluable insights into these existing problems and bring forward hopeful solutions anchored in responsible action. This inspiring conversation concludes by underlining the vital role of voting in enacting change and molding a brighter future for all families, concluding with an exploration of the guests’ unified messaging campaign, 'Your Family, Your Future, Your Vote.'
This episode promises insider's knowledge about politics, disruption, democracy, and a promising future for Texas. Tune in now and be a part of this compelling discourse.

Conversations from the Hill Country

We talk with David Williams, candidate for Comal County Sheriff about a number of issues facing the department and the county and his priorities. We also have a little fun. Theme music:  Your Desire-Jon Michael
Discover this song and more of his music here: https://www.tribeofnoise.com/jonmichael

Your Family, Your Future, Your Vote-Conversations from the Hill Country

In this episode, we talk about the importance of voting and how to get involved.
 
Theme Music: Your Desire-Jon Michael
Find more of his music here: https://www.tribeofnoise.com/jonmichael