Raising Midland

Inside the Bush Family Home with Troy Gray

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Troy Gray, Site Manager of the Bush Family Home Historic Site in Midland, Texas. Troy shares how this modest home once housed two future U.S. Presidents — George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush — and how the site now serves as a living window into Midland’s rich history.Troy discusses his background in museum curation, the importance of historic preservation, and how the Bush family’s early years in Midland helped shape their values and leadership. You'll also hear stories about the restoration process, surprising facts about the house, and how the site engages with the community today.Whether you're a history buff, a proud Midlander, or just curious about how one small home played a big role in American history — this episode is a must-watch.📍 Filmed at Forty Wolves Podcast Studio in Midland, Texas.Chapters:00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction02:00 – Troy Gray’s Path to Historic Preservation04:45 – The Bush Family’s Time in Midland08:10 – What Makes the Bush Family Home Unique12:20 – Restoring the Home to Its 1950s Glory16:00 – Unexpected Discoveries During Renovation19:15 – What Visitors Can Expect at the Site23:00 – Engaging the Community Through History26:30 – The Legacy of George H.W. & George W. Bush30:00 – Upcoming Events & Educational Programs33:20 – Final Thoughts on Preserving Local HistoryRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

How Casa De Amigos Impacts All Ages in West Texas

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy welcomes Tanya Eckert from Casa De Amigos, a cornerstone nonprofit that has served West Texas since 1964. What began in an abandoned grocery store has become a thriving hub for community empowerment across all ages.Casa De Amigos delivers vital services ranging from GED and ESL classes to youth tutoring, senior programs, health and wellness initiatives, and emergency assistance. Tanya shares how the organization continues to adapt and meet the evolving needs of the Permian Basin while staying rooted in its mission: to improve lives through education, social services, and connection.Whether you're passionate about lifelong learning, supporting local families, or simply giving back—this conversation will show you how one organization can make a multigenerational impact.Learn more or volunteer at: https://casadeamigosmidland.org00:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Casa De Amigos01:30 - Casa’s Origin: From Grocery Store to Community Hub03:00 - Core Programs: Education, Health, and Social Services05:20 - How Casa Supports Families Across Generations07:45 - Adult Education: GED & ESL Opportunities09:10 - Youth Tutoring and Mentorship Programs10:50 - Senior Services: Connection, Meals & Dignity13:00 - The Heart of Casa: Community & Empowerment15:30 - How to Volunteer or Support Casa’s Mission17:00 - Tanya Eckert’s Hope for the Future of MidlandRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

Empowering Single Moms in Midland - Midland Fair Havens

In this heartfelt episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Diane Cole Wigum, Executive Director of Midland Fair Havens, to spotlight the life-changing work being done for single mothers and their children in the Permian Basin.Midland Fair Havens is more than just a shelter—it’s a comprehensive residential program designed to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through education, life skills training, and spiritual growth. Diane shares inspiring stories of transformation and the organization’s commitment to guiding women toward long-term independence.You’ll also hear about Gingerbread Haven, the annual fundraising event that brings the community together in a unique and meaningful way to support Midland Fair Havens’ mission.Whether you’re a parent, a volunteer, or someone looking to make a difference—this episode is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when compassion meets action.Learn more or donate: https://www.mfh.org00:00 - Intro: Meet Diane Cole Wigum of Midland Fair Havens01:20 - What is Midland Fair Havens?03:45 - The mission to empower single mothers06:15 - From crisis to independence: Real transformation stories09:30 - Education, life skills & faith-based support12:05 - How Gingerbread Haven brings the community together14:50 - Challenges in the nonprofit space17:10 - How volunteers and donors make a difference19:00 - What gives Diane hope for Midland’s future21:00 - How to get involved or support the missionRaising Midland is hosted by Jessica McCoyProduced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

How Ballet Builds Stronger Kids | Midland Festival Ballet

In this episode of Raising Midland, host Jessica McCoy sits down with Rachel Ritter, Executive Director of Midland Festival Ballet, to explore the impact of ballet on children’s development, confidence, and mental health.From the tradition of The Nutcracker to the unexpected ways ballet teaches leadership, teamwork, and resilience, this episode is a must-watch for parents looking to understand the power of the arts in shaping young minds.Rachel shares her journey, the storied history of Midland Festival Ballet, and how the organization integrates discipline with empathy to build a lasting legacy in the Permian Basin. They discuss the importance of keeping girls in sports, how ballet fosters coachability, and what makes Midland’s arts community so unique.00:00 - Intro: Meet Rachel Ritter of Midland Festival Ballet01:32 - Rachel’s background and return to Midland03:45 - The founding of Midland Festival Ballet06:00 - Why ballet is a sport and an art08:10 - Tradition and legacy in ballet10:48 - The impact of professional-level instructors13:25 - Discipline and structure in early childhood ballet17:10 - Respect, reverence, and mutual growth19:35 - Challenging stereotypes in girls' sports21:30 - Mental health benefits of ballet24:55 - The importance of coachability27:30 - Mentorship: Big girls helping the little ones30:45 - Behind the scenes of The Nutcracker35:05 - Volunteer army and community pride38:00 - Summer camps and year-round programs40:15 - Why Rachel is hopeful for Midland’s future42:40 - Final thoughts and how to get involved👉 Learn more about Midland Festival Ballet: https://midlandfestivalballet.org📱 Follow Raising Midland for more inspiring stories from local leaders and parents.Produced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com

Behind the Dugout with the Midland RockHounds

Join Jessica McCoy on this episode of Raising Midland as she sits down with Ray Fieldhouse, Assistant General Manager of the Midland RockHounds, to explore the heartbeat of minor league baseball in West Texas.Go behind the scenes of RockHounds operations—from gameday logistics and community outreach to the team’s creative promotions and how they stack up against viral sensations like the Savannah Bananas. Hear Ray’s story of moving from Los Angeles to Midland, and how his passion for sports and leadership continues to fuel one of the most beloved teams in minor league baseball.Plus, get a peek into the RockHounds’ fan experience, including unique ballpark events like their TopGolf-style setup and summer family nights.If you're a baseball fan, love team culture, or just enjoy great stories from behind the scenes, this one’s for you.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insider stories from the people shaping life in Midland.Produced by Ryan ShewchukForty Wolves Studioshttps://fortywolves.com