Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Hello Houston

On today’s Hello Houston, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and Houston native Benjamin Moser discusses his new book, Anti-Zionism: A Jewish History, which uncovers the history of Jewish thinkers who became known for their opposition to Zionism.

Then, we hear the newest edition of Tessa’s regular Friday feature, Tessa Takes On, which spotlights Houston Dash midfielder KiKi Van Zanten, who discusses her latest season with the team and her journey to the world of professional soccer.

In the show’s second hour, we talk with Keturah Wilson, the founder and CEO of The Boss Factory, who tells us about her book And Don’t Forget to Pray, which explores surviving domestic violence, healing through faith, and finding purpose after trauma.

Plus, our hosts do our regular weekly features, Current Obsessions and Last Minute Plans, by sharing the latest things that have been taking over their free time, while they also share a comprehensive rundown of events happening this weekend in the Houston area.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the passing of former State Rep. Garnet Coleman, which they discuss with Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, several voter registration applications found to have not been processed due to an error by Texas DPS, and James Talarico challenging Ken Paxton to a debate on Fox News.

On today’s Hello Houston, former Houston Astros TV play-by-play broadcaster Bill Brown talks about his nearly thirty years with the team, his memories of calling Astros games, and his thoughts on whether they can make the playoffs this season.

Then, we do our Thursday feature, HPM in Focus, in which Houston Public Media reporter Bianca Seward helps us understand where Houston ISD stands as the district moves closer to a possible end of state control.

In the second hour of the show, we shift to food and talk with Houston-area food and travel content creator Shawn Singh, also known as shawnthefoodsheep, who rejoins us on the show to share some of his recommendations for the best food spots for Fall dining in Houston.

Plus, United Airlines pilot Captain Nia Gilliam spotlights her memoir Cleared for Takeoff, which tells the powerful story of her journey in aviation and how she found her way back to the cockpit after witnessing the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the recently approved Harris County budget, which they discuss with Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey, who explains why he voted against the property tax hike, a federal judge ordering the Trump administration to restore access to banned news outlets, the plans to redevelop Greenspoint Mall, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, Beth Wiedower Jackson, executive director of the Astrodome Conservancy, joins us again on the show to give us the latest plans and proposals that are being considered for the 8th wonder of the world and what it would take to give it new life.

Next, we’re joined by Come From Away director and choreographer Valerie Rachelle and cast members Shawn Hamilton and Heather Hall, who tell us all about the Stages production of this Tony-nominated musical, which will run through October 18.

In the second hour, we discuss a new Environment Texas report that’s raising concerns about the water quality in the rivers, lakes, and waterways in Texas with Guadalupe Fernández, the policy strategy director for Bayou City Waterkeeper, who also talks to us about the potentially unsafe levels of E. coli found in some Houston waterways.

Plus, we learn about the North American Hockey League team, the Houston Bulls, with their Vice President of Business Operations, Devon Buckland, who explains what the team’s presence means for Houston hockey fans.

And, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Michael Adkison talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Camp Mystic being investigated by the Texas Rangers, Ken Paxton being excluded from a recent fundraiser in Dallas, a TSU poll finding that many Texas races in the midterm elections will be close, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we begin the show by talking with Katherine Maher, the President and CEO of NPR, who discusses how public media is changing, how NPR is navigating the loss of federal funding, and what the future of public media looks like.

Then, we’re joined by the newly crowned Miss America, Houstonian Regan Hutsell, who tells us about her journey to the crown, what this win means to her, and her community service initiative Your Body Is Your Home, which focuses on body image and physical and mental well-being.

And, we hear the latest episode of our Tuesday feature, Five Simple Questions, in which Hello Houston Executive Producer Jim Kovacik talks with Ainsley “Lady L” Landry, Houston’s popular Screen Queen, cultural decoder and storyteller.

In the second hour of the show, we talk with Peter Salib, an assistant professor at the University of Houston Law Center, who breaks down all the latest news concerning AI as concerns over the potential risks of this technology continue to grow.

Also, Oli Mohammed, Executive Director of the Houston Furniture Bank, talks to us about the current state of furniture poverty in the greater Houston area and how the organization is working to combat it.

Plus, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse talk about the top stories of the day, including five major TV networks suspending pool coverage of President Trump and Texas Gubernatorial candidate Vikki Goodwin filing a police report over Dan Patrick’s AI campaign ads.

On today’s Hello Houston, we discuss the Environmental Protection Agency eliminating rules that limit planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions from coal and natural gas power plants with Jennifer Hadayia and Thelisa Lavergne of Air Alliance Houston. 

Next, we turn to film and hear Hello Houston producer Garrett Bohlmann and longtime Houston-area film critic Joe Leydon talk about the 30th anniversary of acclaimed Houston native filmmaker Wes Anderson’s first film, Bottle Rocket.

In the second hour, David Brockman, a Christian theologian and nonresident scholar with the Baker Institute’s Religion and Public Policy Program, shares his thoughts on students being required to read Bible passages as part of a new statewide reading list for Texas public school students.

And finally, Houston Public Media’s Galveston County bureau reporter Julianna Washburn tells us about the growing existential threat coral reefs are facing in the Gulf as water temperatures along the Texas coast continue to rise.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including federal immigration agents shooting and injuring a Venezuelan man in Austin, and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo joins us to explain why she's calling out Commissioner Tom Ramsey over his vote on the county's property tax increase.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with Alie Brumel of The Breasties and Michele Lampach of Bobbies for Change, who both tell us about Connie’s Bill and how it aims to help provide coverage for mothers who are medically unable to breastfeed their children.

Then, we talk with local comedian Liz Faublas-Wallace, who discusses how she made the move from journalism to comedy and how she found her voice on stage.

In the second hour, Stephanie Wittels Wachs, a Houston native and co-founder and CEO of Lemonada Media, talks about her new book, Last Day: How to Stop Losing Our Loved Ones to the Opioid Crisis, and how it examines the ongoing opioid crisis.

Plus, we do our regular Friday feature, Last Minute Plans, in which our hosts share a comprehensive rundown of events going down in the Houston area this weekend, while they, and Hello Houston listeners, share their own plans for the weekend.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Macklemore donating $1 million to organizations that support Palestine, the holdout juror in the Lindsay Clancy trial speaking out, and Harris County Commissioners Court approving a property tax increase, which they discuss with Sen. Paul Bettencourt.

On today’s Hello Houston, Francisco Romero, the main Spanish radio broadcaster for the Houston Astros Baseball Club, talks to us about his career, his hopes for the postseason, and what it means to be the Spanish voice of one of baseball’s biggest franchises.

Then, Houston Public Media reporter Sarah Grunau reports live from Harris County Commissioners Court ahead of the vote on the county budget for this week’s HPM in Focus, in which we spotlight the top trending story from our newsroom.

In the second hour of the show, we talk with Eric Balliet, a retired Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations, who explains why he thinks we’re losing the war on drugs, the current state of border enforcement, and his book Kingpins & Coyotes.

And finally, our hosts and listeners share a rundown of things that are currently taking over all their free time as part of our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions. You can send us your questions anytime by emailing us at talk@helllohouston.org.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the family of a Texas woman alleging the state’s abortion ban led to her death, the University of Texas making plans to eliminate four race and gender study majors, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with David Gantz, the Will Clayton Fellow in Trade and International Economics at the Baker Institute for Public Policy, who breaks down the U.S.-Canada trade war with both countries imposing tariffs on each other and what this means for the broader North American economy.

Then, Ernie spotlights the arts with his weekly feature, On the Marquee. Today, he talks with Elliot Andrews and Elizabeth D'Auito, who are playing Harold Hill and Marion Paroo in Theatre Under the Stars’ production of The Music Man, which is running at the Hobby Center through September 27.

In the second hour, we’re joined by Josh Baker, an investigative journalist with the BBC and producer of the series Where is Austin Tice?, which focuses on the American journalist and Houston native who disappeared in Syria over a decade ago and the search for answers about what happened to him.

And finally, we learn about the REELpoetry International Film Festival, a hybrid festival dedicated to short films that are infused with poetry or poetic, with its founder and director Fran Sanders and poet Laurie Clements Lambeth, who also tells us about her short poetry film.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the Federal Reserve’s expected decision to raise interest rates for the first time in three years, Republican Rep. Thomas Massie filing articles to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, James Talarico leading over Ken Paxton in a new poll, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Erik Ibarra, co-founder of Ox St. Kitchen, and Ivan Chavez of Chavo’s BBQ, who both discuss how Latino-owned businesses are creating new opportunities and flavors in Houston.

Also, we have another edition of our Tuesday feature, Five Simple Questions, in which Hello Houston Executive Producer Jim Kovacik talks with Houston-based media personality, emcee, speaker, and community leader, Me-Me Money.

In the second hour, we’re joined by author and motivational speaker Chantell Preston, who talks about her recently released book The Success Lie: Reframing Your Reality to Thrive Personally and Professionally, and how it challenges the belief that success can only be achieved through sacrifice.

Plus, we turn to literature and talk with Jaundréa Clay and Brooke Lewis, journalists and co-organizers of the annual BIPOC Book Fest, who tell us all about this celebration of the power of diverse stories and why creating space for diverse voices is important.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick using three Texas University football teams' traditions for a campaign ad, Rep. Jasmine Crockett honoring singer Chris Brown at a concert, new details revealed about a holdout juror in the Lindsay Clancy case, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we’re joined by Dr. Luis Ostrosky, chief of infectious diseases at UTHealth Houston, who helps us understand what Houstonians should know about the recently updated COVID vaccine as we prepare to enter the Fall season.

Next, we have our first Producer Spotlight, in which Hello Houston producer William Menjivar talks with Madison Elaine Sutton, the founder and artistic director of Houston Music Classifieds, about their work connecting local musicians and music fans.

In the second hour of the show, we turn to sports and talk with broadcaster and Texans on Tap podcast host, Charlie Pallilo, about yesterday’s Houston Texans season opener, how far the team has come after 25 years, and what they hope to accomplish this season.

Plus, Madame Christine Argillet, daughter of Salvador Dalí’s publisher Pierre Argillet, joins us to tell us about her family’s connection to the famous artist, as someone who knew and grew up around him, and a rare Dalí collection that will be in Houston starting tomorrow, September 15.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including leaders of Anthropic and OpenAI calling for a slowdown in AI development, Sen. John Cornyn criticizing racist tweets posted by Bo French, and the Texas Supreme Court blocking Galveston County from using its newly approved precinct map for the November election.

On today’s Hello Houston, we observe the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with Christopher Combs, a former FBI agent who was at the Pentagon minutes after the building was struck. He recounts to us what he witnessed and the lessons he carries with him to this day.

Then, Tessa hosts the first edition of her feature, Tessa Takes On, in which she talks with Andrew Johnson, known to football fans as the Houston Texans’ mascot Toro. He talks about how his journey began, his children's book, and the physical requirements that go into playing the character.

In the second hour, we continue our observance and talk with Bill Tatar, Roman Aguilar, and Maren Will, the organizers of the Houston National Day of Service event taking place tomorrow, September 12, at the Houston National Cemetery, to honor those who lost their lives on 9/11.

And finally, we do our regular Friday feature Last Minute Plans, in which our hosts share a comprehensive rundown of events going down in the Houston area this weekend, while they, and Hello Houston listeners, share their own plans for the weekend.

Plus, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse respond to calls and messages from Hello Houston listeners at the top of each hour, as they share their reflections on where they were and what they experienced on September 11, 2001.

On today’s Hello Houston, Dr. Zoabe Hafeez, a nonresident fellow at the Baker Institute’s Center for Health Policy, joins us to discuss a new study that looks at how changes to streets and school campuses could make traveling to school safer for students.

Then, we have our first HPM in Focus with Houston Public Media reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh, who joins us to discuss his article on how misdemeanor marijuana arrests have soared under Houston Mayor John Whitmire.

In the show’s second hour, we hear an excerpt from the latest edition of Ernie’s InnerVIEWS series, in which he chats with Motown legend Martha Reeves, lead singer of Martha and the Vandellas, to discuss her career and her new album, which is her first studio album in twenty-two years. To watch the full interview, click here. 

And finally, we do our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions, in which our hosts and listeners share a rundown of things that are currently taking over all their free time. You can send us your questions anytime by emailing us at talk@helllohouston.org.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani attending the city’s 9/11 remembrance ceremony despite calls for him not to attend, two Houston-area communities suspending the use of Flock cameras, President Trump promising $5,000 to every American if Republicans win in the midterms, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with Dr. Anitra Beasley, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology, who shares her thoughts on President Trump’s new leader of the FDA and how this choice could impact women’s health.

Then, we turn to the arts and debut the first edition of Ernie’s On the Marquee, in which he learns all about the upcoming production Gloria: A Life with Janye Anderson, founder and Executive Director of Cypress Stage, and the show’s director Deborah Hope.  

In the second hour of the show, we’re joined by three-time Olympian and 1996 gold medalist, Dominique Dawes, who tells us about her new Houston-based gymnastics academy and how it helps kids build strength, confidence and a love of movement.

Plus, Ann Dang, co-founder of Asian Streetness, and Thanh Le, chair of the Vietnamese Culture and Science Association, tell us about the upcoming Việt Cultural Fest, the largest Vietnamese festival in Texas, which will be held this Saturday, September 12, at Reliant Center.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Latino lawmakers calling on Democratic leaders to invest in the Texas Governor’s race, Lindsay Clancy’s attorney asking President Trump to pardon her, and the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, which they discuss with Nate Hurst, a Political Editor for C-SPAN.

On today’s Hello Houston, we discuss a new report that finds renting a starter home is still cheaper than buying in all fifty of the nation’s largest metro areas with Jiayi Xu, an economist with Realtor.com, who also explains what the numbers look like in the Houston area. 

Then, Hello Houston Executive Producer Jim Kovacik launches our brand-new Tuesday feature, Five Simple Questions, where he asks famous and up and coming stars questions to find out who they truly are. Today, the spotlight is turned on local social media comedian Desmun Dangerfield.

In the second hour, we talk with University of Houston Law Center’s Nikolas Guggenberger, who discusses social media company Meta’s settlement with several U.S. states to resolve a landmark lawsuit over claims that its platforms are designed to be addictive to children, as well as a separate settlement with the state of Texas.

Plus, pianist Timo Andres tells us about his participation in The Complete Piano Etudes by Philip Glass, a live performance in which ten pianists perform one of the prolific composer’s most personal works. The performance will take place on Saturday, September 12, at Jones Hall. To watch Ernie Manouse’s interview with Phillip Glass for his series InnerVIEWS, click here.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including a pro-Trump super PAC spending $10 million on an ad buy in the Texas Senate Race, the Trump administration drafting a plan to create a grant program for stay-at-home parents, Harris County commissioners considering a property tax increase today, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, with food recalls growing in recent months, we talk with Dr. Byron Chaves, a professor in the Department of Food Science at Rutgers University, who discusses food safety and how food contamination is prevented.

Then, Brandon Johnson, a professional athlete, impact speaker, and founder of The AWAKE Program and The No Script Nonprofit, shares his story of turning his own experiences into a way to help Houston’s youth make better choices and see what’s possible for their future.

In the second hour, Darcie Wells, President and CEO of the Houston-based non-profit CanCare tells us about the organization’s work pairing cancer patients with cancer survivors, while Keith Saathoff shares how he became a CanCare volunteer after surviving stage 4 lymphoma.

Plus, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse give us a combination of our regular weekly features “Current Obsessions” and “Last Minute Plans,” by sharing the latest things that have been taking over all their free time, while they also share a comprehensive rundown of events happening this Labor Day weekend in the Houston area.

And, as always, our hosts talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Texas’s comptroller asking state legislators to increase the budget of the school voucher program, Texas health experts calling on state leaders to restrict prediction market platforms, the judge in the Lindsay Clancy murder trial saying he’ll declare a mistrial, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, Ronaldo and Lorenzo Salgado join us to discuss the emotional impact of the death of their father, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, who was shot and killed by an ICE agent on July 7 in Houston, and what they’re looking for when it comes to justice.

Then, we turn to medicine and talk with Dr. Vipal Durkal, a medical oncologist with Texas Oncology-Houston Medical Center, who tells us about a possible breakthrough in the treatment of pancreatic cancer and what this advancement could mean for patients. 

In the second hour, as Harris County commissioners prepare to vote on a proposed budget that would include the highest property tax rate in 20 years, Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones joins us to discuss what’s driving the proposed increase.

Plus, Tony and Grammy-nominated actress, singer, and songwriter Orfeh and Houston native music director Steven Jamail, talk about their upcoming Live at the Founder’s Club concert, which will run at the Hobby Center for two nights next week.

On today’s Hello Houston, retired NASA astronaut, engineer, and NFL football player Leland Melvin tells us how he went from the football field to the stars, his experiences in space, and his post-NASA career ahead of his upcoming event at Space Center Houston.

Next, director Tyler Mann, actress Rachel DeRouen and actor Eric Roberts discuss their film I Voted, which takes a real-life experience and turns it into a dark, political thriller. The film opens in select theaters on September 4th.  

In the second hour, we discuss restoring the oyster population along the Texas coast with Justin Woody, vice president of Jeri’s Seafood Inc., who’s worked alongside Palacios Marine Agricultural Research on a new method for oyster restoration.

And finally, we talk with Kathryn Tart, dean of the Gessner College of Nursing at the University of Houston, who breaks down the growing shortage of nurses in Texas and how the University of Houston is working to train the nurses of the future.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the Texas State Board of Education preliminarily approving a rewrite of high school social studies curriculum, the city of Houston approving an anti-annexation deal with The Woodlands, and the autonomous vehicle company Zoox coming soon to Houston.

On today’s Hello Houston, the University of Houston Law Center’s David Froomkin joins us to help us make sense of what’s happening with mail-in voting after a federal judge temporarily blocked President Trump’s executive order imposing restrictions on mail-in voting.

Then, we discuss why childhood vaccination rates are declining and what this means for children and communities with Dr. Michael Burgess, a physician and former U.S. Congressman, who represented Texas’s 26th district.

In the second hour of the show, we talk with Jackie Anderson, president of the Houston Federation of Teachers, who explains what’s driving Houston ISD’s teacher exodus with public records showing significant teacher departures at dozens of campuses last year.  

Also, internationally acclaimed artist Jitish Kallat joins us to tell us all about his new art installation at the Menil Drawing Center and what inspired it ahead of its opening on Thursday, September 10th.

Plus, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse get the latest on Tropical Storm Edouard at the top of each hour by talking with Space City Weather meteorologist Eric Berger and Houston Public Media reporter Julianna Washburn, who reports live from Galveston to tell us what we're currently seeing on the island.

On today’s Hello Houston, with today marking International Overdose Awareness Day, Dr. Doug Thornton, Director of the Prescription Drug Misuse Education and Research Center, explains why overdose deaths are declining across the country and what we’re seeing in Texas. 

Next, Dr. Megan Covington, a Canine Behavior Specialist and founder of The Pit Bull Doctor, breaks down what dogs can teach us about emotional regulation, relationships, and meaningful change.

In the second hour, we're joined by Harrison Guy, the founder and artistic director of Urban Souls Dance Company, who talks to us about how he’s honoring the legacy of Prairie View A&M University through performance as the university celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, and why telling these stories through art matters.

Plus, we also talk with Matthew Tabor, the art director and owner of the Houston-based design studio Letterset, who tells us about his work designing logos for several Houston area restaurants and small businesses.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the latest on the developing tropical disturbance in the Gulf, which they discuss with Houston Chronicle newsroom meteorologist Justin Ballard, Gov. Abbot ordering state agencies to pause the funding of Flock cameras, President Trump announcing plans to create a space-focused academy, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, Dr. Peter Bahr, Vice President for the Institute for the Future of Work at the Strada Education Foundation, discusses a new report that looks at where college-educated workers are staying, where they’re moving, and how retaining native workers impacts a state’s workforce and economy.

Then, we’re joined by comedian, actor, and former Saturday Night Live cast member Jay Pharoah, who talks to us about his comedy career, his impressions, and his upcoming shows at Houston Improv this entire weekend.

In the second hour of the show, Dr. Sarah Nadeem, an endocrinologist and associate professor at Baylor College of Medicine, joins us to discuss the growing use of medications for weight management and what patients should know before taking them.

And finally, Grammy Award-winner and lead singer of The Suffers, Kam Franklin, sits down with Hello Houston Executive Producer Jim Kovacik for his new recurring feature Five Simple Questions, to give us an intimate glimpse into her world. Five Simple Questions will officially premiere on Hello Houston, Tuesday, September 8.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including deliberations resuming in the Lindsay Clancy murder trial today, President Trump signing an executive order to rename Lake Ontario to “Lake America,” the City of Houston disconnecting water for thousands of customers with overdue balances, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk again with Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare, who joins us to give us an update on the investigation into last month’s fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by federal immigration agents.

Then, we’re joined by Jay Hickman, John Swasey, and Kyle Jones, hosts of the Houston-based comedy podcast, Bottom of the Barrel, who tell us about their upcoming third season which will launch with an episode dedicated to the history of Houston.

In the second hour, in recognition of Houston’s 190th birthday this Sunday, August 30, we hear the newest installment of Texperts, in which University of Houston political science professor and Party Politics co-host Brandon Rottinghaus explores the history and symbolism behind Houston’s official city seal and flag with vexillologist Charles Spain. 

Plus, our hosts and listeners share the latest things that have been taking over all their free time as part of our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions. Share your Current Obsessions with us anytime by emailing us at talk@hellohouston.org.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including a federal judge striking down a Texas law aimed at restricting drag performances, Meta agreeing to implement protections for kids on its social media platforms as part of a settlement, the city of Houston agreeing to not absorb the Woodlands, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, with major tech companies like Apple and Tesla investing heavily in new manufacturing facilities across the Houston area, we discuss what this could mean for jobs, tech investment, and the region’s economy with Houston Business Journal reporter Jishnu Nair.

Then, we learn all about Reel Girls HTX, an all-women fishing group focused on building sisterhood, sharing skills, and making the water more welcoming for anglers of all experience levels, with its founder Keyahra Hayes, and members Nahzarah and Sedaja.

In the second hour, Houston area attorney Charles D. Adams, who represents the family of John Mendoza Jr., discusses the charges against former Brazoria County deputy Kevin Tippit and the newly released body camera footage in the fatal shooting of the 18-year-old Texas State University student.

Plus, we turn to music and hear Hello Houston producer William Menjivar talk with Madison Sutton, founder and artistic director of Houston Music Classifieds, who explains how the Solar Flare Music Festival is putting a spotlight on local music artists.

And, as always, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the passing of singer-songwriter Dolly Parton and HPD Police Chief Noe Diaz not showing up for what was meant to be his first public accounting of the department’s cooperation with ICE, which they discuss with Houston Public Media reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh.

On today’s Hello Houston, Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles joins us to discuss the school district’s new school year, the major changes that are already underway, and the current concerns and criticisms surrounding the district.

Next, Chef Paul Friedman, owner and executive chef of The Chef’s Table, and his son Kyle Friedman, the contractor and designer who helped bring the River Oaks location to life, discuss their restaurant’s involvement in Houston Restaurant Weeks.

In the second hour of the show, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Ernie Manouse discuss some of today’s top stories, including more details released on the arrest of La Marque’s mayor for indecent exposure and the Supreme Court giving President Trump a win on his executive order aimed at restricting mail-in voting.

Then, we’re joined by Maisha Colter, CEO of Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA), and Board of Directors member Katie Tsuru, who both tell us about the non-profit’s mission to end family violence by advocating for victims while also promoting accountability for abusers. 

And finally, we talk with storm chaser Reed Timmer and director Ken Cole, who both discuss the new documentary Never Stop Chasing, which explores Timmer’s decades-long career chasing some of the most extreme weather on the planet and what keeps pulling him back into chasing storms.

On today’s Hello Houston, Elissa Freiha, founder of Womena, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women across the Arab world, joins us to share her thoughts on the potential impact of conflict across the Middle East on women and families.

Next, we turn to sports and talk with Prairie View A&M’s head football coach Tremaine Jackson, who tells us about the inaugural Chancellor’s Cup, which brings together two Texas A&M University System schools for the first time in football, and the season ahead.

In the second hour, University of Houston Energy Fellow Ed Hirs joins us to help us separate fact from fiction on how data centers work, including their water, electricity, and land use, how they could impact local communities, and whether they could affect residential electricity bills.

And finally, Dr. Irene Stafford, a physician with UTHealth Houston, joins us to tell us how college students can stay healthy as they head back to class and what health resources are available to them while they’re in school.

Plus, our hosts Tessa Barrera and Michael Adkison talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the University of Houston removing 133 courses from its core curriculum to comply with SB 37, NASA potentially beginning development of its lunar base, the mayor of La Marque being released on bond after being arrested for alleged indecent exposure, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with U.S. Representative Al Green, currently serving Texas’s 9th congressional district, who  discusses his goals and priorities before he leaves the Capitol in January and the annual Slavery Remembrance Legislative Update Breakfast that he’s hosting tomorrow, August 22.

Then, Dr. Shonnie Murrell, Governor of the Recording Academy’s Texas and Oklahoma Chapters and leader of the band Funk Potion #9, tells us about her work advocating for artists, mentoring young people through Grammy U, and her upcoming new R&B album.

In the second hour, former superintendent of Big Bend National Park and chairman of Keep Big Bend Wild, Bob Krumenaker, discusses how the organization is fighting border wall construction in that area, what’s at stake for the famous Texas national park, and what happens next now that construction has been paused.

Plus, we do our regular Friday feature "Last Minute Plans," in which our hosts share a comprehensive rundown of events going down in the Houston area this weekend, while they, and Hello Houston listeners, share their own plans for the weekend.

And, as always, our hosts Ernie Manouse and Tessa Barrera discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Minnesota officials suing Gov. Abbott to force the extradition of an ICE agent arrested in Texas, a Deer Park police officer suspended after misusing the department’s Flock cameras, the attorney of a Texas teen convicted of a fatal stabbing asking for a new trial, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we’re joined by Harris County Attorney Abbie Kamin, who discusses the county’s legal battles over mail-in voting and federal funding, what they could mean for both the county and voters, and what happens next.

Next, we turn to education and talk with Reid Turner, the lead agriculture teacher at Worthing High School in Sunnyside, who tells us about how their agriculture program is teaching students how to grow food, raise animals, and tackle the challenges of living in a food desert.

In the second hour, journalist and Pulitzer Prize-winning national security reporter Thomas Ricks, who’s written extensively about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, talks to us about what he’s seeing as a troubling connection between the conduct of American forces during the Iraq War and how immigration enforcement is currently being carried out on U.S. streets.

And finally, our hosts and listeners share the latest things that have been taking over all their free time as part of our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions. Share your Current Obsessions with us anytime by emailing us at talk@hellohouston.org.

And, as always, our hosts Ernie Manouse and Tessa Barrera discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including James Talarico spending more than $25 million on television advertising, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick saying he’ll lower school ratings if graphic books aren’t removed, Houston City Council approving a "right to air conditioning" ordinance, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we discuss why many of the biggest cities in Texas are currently facing mounting budget deficits with Joshua Fechter, an urban affairs reporter for The Texas Tribune, who’s recently reported on this matter.

Then, Tracy Hester, co-director of the University of Houston Law Center’s Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Law Center, educates us on solar radiation management (SRM), a theoretical way to slow global warming by reflecting a small amount of sunlight back into space.

In the second hour of the show, we discuss mail-in ballots and other current questions about voting access across Texas ahead of the midterm elections in November with Jen Rice, who reports on threats to democracy in states across the country for Democracy Docket.

Plus, Chris Williams, the chef and owner of the Houston-area restaurant Lucille’s, talks to us about working with the non-profit Street Art for Mankind to complete a mural honoring the legacy of famed Houston artist John Biggers. 

And, as always, our hosts Ernie Manouse and Tessa Barrera talk about today's top stories at the top of each hour, including ABC suing the FCC for allegedly violating the network’s First Amendment rights, Gov. Abbott calling for a ban on school districts employing anyone with an H-1B visa, and the city of Houston asking a federal court to reconsider its ruling on the city's minority-owned business program.

On today’s Hello Houston, Dr. Zuri Dale, Assistant Vice President of Research and Innovation Initiatives at Texas Southern University, explains how the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris spreads, why there are so many cases in Texas, and how we can prevent it.

Then, we discuss indoor plant care with Jemine Oakes, owner of the local plant shop, The Flora Culture, who shares tips and discusses the growing trend of biophilic design.

In the show’s second hour, we turn to healthcare and receive an update on the latest advances in melanoma research and therapies with Dr. Michael Davies, chair of the Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology at MD Anderson.

Plus, Houston-based sculptor Bridgette Mongeon discusses her book Alice and the Hidden 150, which features hints to help people uncover all 150 secrets hidden in her Alice in Wonderland-inspired sculpture Move One Place On, located in Evelyn’s Park in Bellaire.

And, as always, our hosts Ernie Manouse and Tessa Barrera discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including TEA Commissioner Mike Morath saying the HISD takeover could be ending soon, high temperatures in Houston this week, which they discuss with KTRK broadcast meteorologist Elyse Smith, and the Trump Administration pausing border wall construction in Big Bend National Park.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with Dr. Stacy Norton, an obstetrician and gynecologist with Houston Methodist Willowbrook, who discusses colon cancer risks, the warning signs to watch out for, and the importance of early detection, especially for women.  

Next, Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, the inaugural director of the University of Houston-Downtown's Center for Crime, Urban Research and Education, tells us how the center is bringing researchers, students, and law enforcement together to better understand what drives crime and how to prevent it.

In the second hour of the show, John McClain, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame who's also been covering the NFL in Houston for 50 years, joins us to share his thoughts on what we can expect from the Houston Texans’ upcoming new season.

Also, we discuss the future of nuclear energy with Ramanan Krishnamoorti, Vice President of Energy and Innovation at the University of Houston, who also explains what advancements have been made to make nuclear energy safer and more reliable. 

Plus, Ernie Manouse and Hello Houston’s new permanent co-host, Tessa Barrera, talk about today’s stories at the top of each hour, including Dallas Fort Worth International Airport canceling plans to install a facility for Islamic prayer and Caitlyn Jenner supporting two former NBA players who are planning to enter the WNBA’s draft.

On today’s Hello Houston, we discuss how widespread Flock cameras are becoming in the state of Texas and the debate surrounding their use with Sam Shaw, a government and growth reporter at The Waco Bridge, who's been reporting on their expansion.

Then, Briana Byrd, a Houston entrepreneur and owner of Taaffe Vintage Furniture, joins us to share DIY restoration tips, how we can avoid common mistakes, and how we can give old furniture a beautiful second life.

In the second hour of the show, we’re joined by River Oaks Theatre artistic director Rob Saucedo, who talks to us about his new graphic novel, Curse of the Where Wolf, and the werewolf movie screenings that he’s hosting at the theater this month to celebrate the graphic novel’s release.

Also, we wrap up this week by welcoming Hello Houston's new permanent co-host, Tessa Barrera, during our regular Friday feature, Last Minute Plans. She will officially be starting on Monday, August 17.

Plus, Ernie Manouse and guest host Rebekah Dahl discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Governor Abbott calling for tougher penalties for Texas teachers who engage in inappropriate relationships with students and four HISD schools receiving F ratings a year after there were no failing campuses, which they discuss with Houston Public Media reporter Bianca Seward.

On today’s Hello Houston, University of Houston law professor Seth Chandler discusses a federal judge ruling a decades-old Houston program that gives some city contracts to minority-owned businesses unconstitutional and what this could mean for the city’s contracting programs.

Then, Hello Houston host Ernie Manouse and today’s guest host, former America’s Got Talent semifinalist and Houston native Christina Wells, talk about upcoming productions she’ll be starring in and life changes.

In the second hour, we talk with Brandon Rottinghaus, a professor of political science at the University of Houston and co-host of Houston Public Media’s Party Politics, about how to recognize political spin, evaluate candidates’ claims, and make sense of campaign messaging during campaign season.

Plus, our hosts and listeners share the latest things that have been taking over all their free time as part of our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions. Share your Current Obsessions with us anytime by emailing us at talk@hellohouston.org.

And, as always, our hosts talk about the top stories of the day at the top of each hour, including Houston voters considering deprioritizing enforcement of cannabis laws and banning no-knock warrants, Houston airport workers receiving a 33% raise under an executive order by Mayor Whitmire, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we’re joined by Houston Chronicle reporters Sam González Kelly and Matt deGrood, who both tell us about a recent analysis that’s raising questions about HPD’s cooperation with federal immigration agents.

Next, Houston native and comedian Cris Sosa talks to us about his journey taking his comedy to the national stage as a contestant on America’s Got Talent.

In the show’s second hour, we talk again with Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, who discusses Harris County Commissioners rejecting her proposed tax-rate increase to fund early childcare programs for a second time.

Then, we discuss Rice University’s SSPEED Center with its co-director and professor of environmental law, Jim Blackburn, who explains the mission of the center, how the idea for it developed, and how it has helped shape coastal recreation legislation.

And finally, we turn to real estate and talk with Houston real estate expert Noel Collier, who tells us about her new HGTV series, Extreme Buyers Club, and her experiences helping buyers with their unconventional wish lists.

Plus, Ernie Manouse and guest host Holland Vavra talk about today’s top stories at the top of the show, including the Tesla company proposing a $10 billion solar cell manufacturing facility in Fort Bend County and President Trump confirming that he secretly switched planes due to a possible threat after last month's NATO summit in Turkey.

On today’s Hello Houston, Houston City Council Member Edward Pollard joins us to discuss his proposal to pause the approval of new gas stations near residential neighborhoods and what it could mean for the future of development, public health, and quality of life in Houston.  

Then, we turn to books and talk with New York Times best-selling author Amanda Eyre Ward, who tells us about the two years she spent researching the world of romance scammers for her new novel, Arrivals and Departures. 

In the second hour, Dr. Ruth Simmons, a Distinguished Fellow at Rice University and Advisor to the President of Harvard for HBCU Initiatives, discusses Texas Southern University's landmark investment in breast cancer prevention and the critical role HBCUs can play in advancing health equity.

Plus, Houston-based musicians Thomas Helton and Woody Witt join us to tell us all about the Houston Jazz Legacy Project and how it preserves and celebrates Houston’s rich jazz history through live conversations, oral histories, performances, and more.

And, as always, our hosts, Ernie Manouse and guest host Courtney Markowitz, talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Houston’s most popular dog breeds, which they discuss with Houston Public Media reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh, President Trump’s executive order aimed at reducing the number of universally recommended vaccines children receive, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, Yvonne Romero, Vice President for Enrollment at Rice University, tells us about the school's expanded financial aid program and what it could mean for students who thought an education at Rice was financially out of reach.

Then, Galveston-based extreme weather and disaster scientist, Dr. Hal Needham, better known as “Hurricane Hal,” discusses what we can expect from this year's hurricane season and how we can manage storm and disaster anxiety while also being prepared.

In the second hour of the show, with today being the first day of the 2026 – 27 school year for Houston ISD, we talk with Houston Chronicle HISD reporter Claire Partain, who helps break down many of the district’s changes for this new school year.

Plus, Montrose Star publisher Laura Villagran talks to us about the Houston-area publication's 50th anniversary this year and how they’ve become one of the longest-running LGBTQ+ publications in the state of Texas.

And, as always, our hosts, Ernie Manouse and guest host Deborah Hope, talk about the top stories of the day at the top of each hour, including President Trump criticizing Texas for being “against data centers,” and flock cameras remaining in Harris County through at least 2027.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with Dr. Peter Stout, President and CEO of the Houston Forensic Science Center, who discusses their work providing forensic services to help support criminal investigations and why scientific integrity is important for the investigative process.

Then, Timothy Hudson, founder and CEO of Houston Reggae Summer Fest, and the festival's entertainment director, Tafari Toney, talk to us about the event taking place at Hermann Square tomorrow, August 8, and what sights and sounds Houstonians can expect.

In the second hour of the show, we do our regular Friday feature “Last Minute Plans,” in which our hosts share a comprehensive rundown of events going down in the Houston area this weekend, while they, and Hello Houston listeners, share their own plans for the weekend.

And finally, we revisit an episode of Party Politics co-host Brandon Rottinghaus' Texperts series, in which he explores a new Texas law that creates a single statewide health permit for food trucks and what its supporters and critics are saying about it.

Plus, our hosts, Michael Adkison and Donna Reed, discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including a Texas appeals court rejecting Attorney General Ken Paxton’s push to overturn the State Fair’s firearms ban, Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare’s investigation into the fatal ICE shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo receiving a funding boost of $2.5 million, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, Dr. Katherine Hempstead of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation discusses new research that found nearly half of working-age adults struggled to afford healthcare last year and what this says about healthcare affordability in the U.S.

Next, our hosts and listeners share the latest things that have been taking over all their free time as part of our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions. Share your Current Obsessions with us anytime by emailing us at talk@hellohouston.org.

In the show’s second hour, we hear Ernie Manouse’s conversation with Academy Award-winning actor Morgan Freeman about his touring live concert, Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience, which makes its stop in Houston tomorrow, August 7.

And finally, we turn to the stage and talk with Alley Theatre Resident Acting Company member Elizabeth Bunch, who tells us about her role in the Alley’s Summer Chills production of the psychological thriller The Girl on the Train.

Plus, our hosts Michael Adkison and Doug Miller discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including reports that James Talarico used his parents’ address to vote in five elections, Gov. Abbott calling for state regulators to audit new data centers before they can join the grid, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s proposed property tax increase failing for a second time, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, we discuss a new investigation into one of the country’s largest hospital chains, American Healthcare Systems, and its owner, with Mother Jones special projects editor Hannah Levintova and Ashley Cleek, a reporter and producer at Reveal.

Next, we hear from Brooke Yahney, the Wildlife Director of the Houston SPCA Wildlife Center, who breaks down their work providing emergency care for native wildlife, and what Houstonians should do if they encounter an animal in need of medical attention. 

In the show's second hour, we turn to education and talk with Betsy Mayotte, President of the Institute of Student Loan Advisors, who discusses a recent landmark court decision that could help over 500 thousand Americans with student loan debt, who might be eligible, and what borrowers should do next.

Also, Texas journalist and founder of the Preserving Essential Cultures and Narratives (PECAN) project, DaLyah Jones, joins us to discuss her essay honoring the Black woodswomen of deep East Texas and why their stories deserve to be preserved.

Plus, our hosts, Houston Public Media’s Michael Adkison and Donna Reed, discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including professors suing the Texas A&M University System over a policy that restricts teaching about race and gender, and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa calls in to discuss bringing her campaign to Houston today to commemorate the 61st Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act. 

On today’s Hello Houston, we discuss the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on Temporary Protected Status and what it could mean for Houston's Haitian and Black immigrant communities with Zenobia Lai, Executive Director of the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, and James Pierre, Vice Chairman of Houston Haitians United.

Then, University of Houston professor Dr. Lu Gao joins us to explain how artificial intelligence is helping researchers identify dangerous roadways and improve traffic safety across Texas.

In the second hour of the show, we break down what we can expect from this year’s Houston Restaurant Weeks with Alex Brennan-Martin and Carl Walker of Brennan’s of Houston, one of the participating restaurants in this year’s event, who also discuss why this event is significant for the city's restaurant community.

Plus, Justin Schultz, President and CEO of Houston Parks Board, discusses a new initiative that’s bringing major improvements to twenty-five neighborhood parks across the city of Houston and the community input that’s helping shape these upgrades.

Also, our hosts, Houston Public Media’s Michael Adkison and veteran newsman Doug Miller, discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the backlash behind Flock cameras, Texas’s ban on THC products becoming a major issue in the state’s U.S. Senate race, Three Houston-area moms suing over the state law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in school classrooms, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, Ernie Manouse and guest host Deborah Hope begin the show by talking about some of today’s top stories, including a Houston man facing federal charges for flying a drone at the World Cup, and Texas being home to twenty-one of the world's biggest companies by revenue. 

Next, we talk with University of Minnesota researchers Kate Adamala and Aaron Engelhart, who tell us about the synthetic cell they created that can feed, grow, reproduce, and even compete for resources.

Then, Houston Public Media reporter Sarah Grunau joins us to explain what listeners can expect from the forthcoming final episode of the podcast series, After the Flood, which will look at the historic flood that hit the Texas Hill Country earlier this month.

In the second hour, Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis joins us to discuss the Harris County budget proposal, the choices facing Commissioners Court as the county projects a deficit of roughly $180 million, and why he thinks the county should fund the local investigation into the fatal ICE shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. 

And finally, we hear Hello Houston producer Laura Walker’s conversation with Houstonian playwright Cris Eli Blak, who discusses bringing the legacy of Brown v. Board of Education to the stage with his new play Challenging Brown.

On today’s Hello Houston, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s Chairman Wesley Sinor discusses the rodeo's record investment in Texas students through millions of dollars in scholarships, his vision for leading the rodeo, and what's already in the works for next year's event.

Then, Houston artist Tay Butler tells us about his journey from the military to becoming an artist, why he views art as a form of resistance, and how today's social and political climate continues to shape his work.

In the second hour, we talk with freelance journalist Jennifer Swann, who explains how Houston-native singer D4vd's devoted fan base evolved into a crowdsourced search for the truth after he was accused of murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

Plus, Dr. Yolanda Becker, the Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of the organ procurement organization LifeGift, joins us to clarify common misconceptions about organ donation and what’s at stake for the thousands of Texans waiting for a transplant.

And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Craig Hlavaty talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including a new Texas U.S. Senate race poll showing James Talarico leading over Ken Paxton, the Trump administration asking the Supreme Court to clear the way for an executive order on mail-in voting, and Dr. Anthony Fauci declining to answer any questions before a Senate committee focused on the coronavirus pandemic.

On today’s Hello Houston, Ernie Manouse and guest host Doug Miller begin the show by discussing today’s top stories, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick asking state lawmakers to find ways to further instill religion into public life and singer Ella Langley's song "Choosin' Texas" making chart history.

Then, Dr. Jonathan McCullers, Dean of the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine at the University of Houston, talks to us about UH Health, a new cross-disciplinary academic health enterprise to help advance the school’s medical program and Houston’s medical industry.

In the second hour of the show, U.S. Representative Sylvia Garcia joins us to discuss a federal judge ordering the release of one of the witnesses to the fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by a federal immigration agent, and other issues surrounding this case.

Next, we discuss how ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are creating displacement and humanitarian challenges in the region with Kelsey Norman, a Fellow for the Middle East at Rice University's Baker Institute, who also shares her thoughts on what this could mean for the future of the region.

And finally, we hear from Houston radio personality, Madd Hatta, who talks to us about touring libraries across the Houston area to share his newly released children's book, Kase’s Little Adventures, what it teaches young readers, and where the idea for the book came from. 

On today’s Hello Houston, newly elected Houston City Council Member Joe Panzarella shares his vision for the future of Freedmen’s Town, which focuses on balancing growth and preserving its history while simultaneously giving its residents a stronger voice. 

Next, we talk with Ignacio “Nacho” Torras, co-founder of the Genuine Cup, who tells us all about this international soccer tournament and how it empowers athletes with intellectual disabilities and autism from all over the world.

In the second hour of the show, we learn about Combined Arms, a Houston-based referral network for veterans, service members, and military families with Mia Garcia, Executive Director of the organization’s Texas Veterans Network.

Plus, Sean Tajipour, the founder and editor of Nerdtropolis, calls in to talk to us about what was announced at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con and which upcoming projects he’s most excited about.

And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Michael Adkison discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Congressional Democrats vowing to investigate ICE if they regain control of Congress, Katy ISD putting new limits on how students use AI in the classroom, protesters calling for the release of the witnesses in the fatal ICE shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, David A. Gantz, the Will Clayton Fellow in Trade and International Economics at Rice University's Baker Institute, discusses recent talks to revise the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement and what this could mean for businesses and consumers.

Next, Gabriela Torres of the Sickle Cell Association of Texas MTF joins us to tell us about Camp Cell-A-Bration, a week-long camp event that allows children living with sickle cell disease to have their own camp experience.

In the show's second hour, we’re joined by J’Maine Chubb, the new Chief Financial Officer of Texas Southern University, who shares his vision for the university and how he plans to ensure that one of the nation's largest historically Black universities is positioned for a stronger future.

Plus, we do our regular Friday feature "Last Minute Plans," in which our hosts share a comprehensive rundown of events going down in the Houston area this weekend, while they, and Hello Houston listeners, share their own plans for the weekend.

And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Deborah Hope talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Houston officials bidding to host the Women’s World Cup in 2031, the box-office success of Christopher Nolan's film The Odyssey, and President Trump considering a massive escalation in the war with Iran.

On today’s Hello Houston, Houston City Council Member Alejandra Salinas joins us to discuss the "Right to Air Conditioning" ordinance she introduced that would require rental properties to provide and maintain air conditioning in all rental units.  

Then, Judge David Fleischer of the Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 5 joins us to talk about why he continues to livestream his courtroom proceedings and his tough but fair approach to interacting with defendants.

In the second hour of the show, we talk with Bill King, a Fellow in Public Finance at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy, who breaks down the financial challenges ahead for Harris County as the county prepares to adopt its next budget.

Plus, our hosts and listeners share the latest things that are taking over all their free time as part of our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions. You can send us your Current Obsessions anytime by emailing us at talk@hellohouston.org.

And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Bob Ford talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the latest on Tropical Storm Bertha, the planned “No Business As Usual” protest in Houston, Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare moving forward with his investigation into the fatal ICE shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, and more.

On today’s Hello Houston, Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter McCoy joins us to share his perspective on the ongoing dispute over Daniel Wong's appointment as the county's interim judge and what this leadership fight could mean for county government.

Next, we talk with Nicole Buergers, owner of the Houston-area business Bee2Bee Honey Collective, who tells us all about the services they provide and how Houstonians can help preserve local bee populations.

In the second hour of the show, we’re joined by Houston actor Michael Vincent Berry, who talks with us about the deeply personal new film project he’s working on, which explores masculinity, addiction, fatherhood, and the search for redemption.

Plus, Houston’s own food and travel content creator Shawn Singh, also known as “shawnthefoodsheep,” joins us to talk about Houston’s diverse food scene, food trends he's been noticing lately, and Houston-area restaurants he recommends.

And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Donna Reed discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including two key witnesses in the fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo seeking to be released from immigration detention, the U.S. Mint producing a commemorative coin with President Trump’s likeness on it, and Gov. Abbott issuing an executive order to crack down on "birth tourism."

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with the Senior Director of Operations at the Houston Humane Society, Greg Evans, who discusses how they’re addressing the city’s stray animal crisis, and how Houstonians can help lower these rates and save these animals.

Next, we hear from Kevin Anderson, the Founder and CEO of the Houston area non-profit The T.R.U.T.H. Project, who tells us about their upcoming third annual “A Vibe Called Rest Fest,” and how it celebrates community wellness and healing.

In the second hour, Eileen Dong, a former UN Global Goals Ambassador and Executive Director of Hope Pyx Global, and Houston City Council Member Julian Ramirez, discuss the upcoming United Nations World Day Against Trafficking, how this particular issue affects us in Houston, and how we can address trafficking in our area.

Plus, Houston native Corey Ross, who will be appearing in tonight's episode of NBC’s Password, joins us to tell us all about his experience as a contestant on the game show and what it was like to interact with its celebrity guests.

Also, Ernie Manouse and Houston Public Media reporter Michael Adkison talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including the latest on Tropical Storm Bertha, which they discuss with Houston Chronicle meteorologist Justin Ballard, and James Talarico pledging to spend $25 million to mobilize Black voters on behalf of his U.S. Senate campaign.

On today’s Hello Houston, we speak with Dallas-based writer Diana Spechler, who gives us the latest on plans to build a series of border walls across the Big Bend region of West Texas and how Texans on both sides of the political aisle are fighting against it.

Then, State Senator Carol Alvarado, who represents Texas Senate District 6, joins us to discuss the fallout from the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo and the growing response across Houston.

In the second hour, Ernie Manouse and guest host Houston Public Media reporter Michael Adkison talk about the hundreds of protestors that gathered in Houston on Sunday, July 19, to demand transparency and accountability for the killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. 

Next, Dr. Catherine Troisi, an epidemiologist with the UTHealth School of Public Health, joins us to discuss the rise in cyclosporiasis cases across Houston, and to help us better understand what the illness is and how we can prevent getting it.

Plus, Sam Lopez, the co-founder of Conscious Consumer Collective, a Houston-area non-profit that’s dedicated to promoting clothing sustainability, tells us all about their work and the local clothing swap events they host throughout the year.

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with board-certified divorce coach Christy Mendelow, who tells us about her work guiding individuals through the uncertainty of divorce and her thoughts on when couples should consider getting a divorce.

Then, we speak with Houston Public Media reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh and KUT reporter Kailey Hunt, who both discuss the fourth episode of the new podcast series, After the Flood, which delves into the major flood that hit the community of Sandy Creek a day after the deadly floods in Kerr County.

In the second hour, we listen to an excerpt of the newest episode of Ernie Manouse’s series InnerVIEWS, in which he sits down with Baylor College of Medicine’s now-former Executive Vice President and Dean of Clinical Affairs, Dr. James McDeavitt, to discuss what the future of medicine looks like, and more.

Plus, we do our regular Friday feature “Last Minute Plans,” in which our hosts share a comprehensive rundown of events going down in the Houston area this weekend, while they, and Hello Houston listeners, share their own plans for the weekend.

And, as always, Ernie and guest host Haley Hernandez discuss today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including James Talarico challenging Ken Paxton to three debates in the Fall, a White House teleprompter operator being investigated for bets on President Trump’s speeches, and hundreds gathering for a public visitation honoring Lorenzo Salgado Araujo.

On today’s Hello Houston, Adrian Torres, a recent James Beard Award winner and Executive Chef of the Houston area restaurant Maximo, joins us to tell us about receiving this prestigious award, his culinary journey, and his immigration story.

Next, Ricky Sanchez, the co-chair of the Houston Democratic Socialists of America, joins us to discuss the organization's mission, the democratic socialist movement, and his thoughts on the criticism that the movement could potentially splinter the Democratic Party.

In the second hour of the show, we’re rejoined by Maureen McNamara, the co-founder of Arthouse Houston, who gives us an update on the effort to save the historic Garden Oaks Theater and tells us about a special event featuring acclaimed Houston-born filmmaker Wes Anderson.

Plus, our hosts and listeners share the latest things that are taking over all their free time as part of our regular Thursday feature, Current Obsessions. You can send us your Current Obsessions anytime by emailing us at talk@hellohouston.org.

And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Deborah Hope talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Mayor Whitmire saying HPD is investigating the fatal ICE shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, the FBI searching for evidence of drugs in the van involved in the Houston ICE shooting, the return of rainbows to Montrose streets in the form of banners, and more.

On today's Hello Houston, we discuss Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s recent voter fraud allegations despite his push to crack down on illegal voting in the state with Texas Tribune reporter Zach Despart, who’s been covering this story.

Then, actor Robert Petkoff, who’s playing the character Harold Zidler in the national tour of Moulin Rouge The Musical, gives us an inside look at the production, which is currently playing at the Hobby Center through Sunday, July 19.

In the second hour, Perla Trevizo, a reporter with the ProPublica-Texas Tribune investigative unit, tells us about the investigation of an immigration detention center in El Paso that allegedly failed to address the mental health crisis of a detainee despite multiple warning signs.

Plus, we learn all about the UniverSoul Circus with its founder, Cedric Walker, who also tells us about the circus’s history, the community outreach it does, and how the audience participates in the show.

And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Roseann Rogers discuss today's top stories at the top of each hour, including President Trump saying ICE should continue vehicle stops despite recent fatal shootings, Willowbrook Mall implementing a temporary youth curfew, and Mexico filing complaints over the ICE-related deaths of 17 Mexican nationals.