Chad Decker - Episode 9

July 4th Episode - Special Edition

July 4th Episode of the Pod! 🇺🇸 We’re celebrating Independence Day with a special edition of Connecting the Dots featuring a message from Jeff Sandford, patriotic moments around Stephenville, and a reminder of what makes our community so special. Be on the lookout for this short but meaningful July 4th episode!

Lathes "Momma T" Towns - Episode 10

In Episode 10 of Connecting the Dots, we sit down with Lathes “Momma T” Towns for a conversation full of energy, leadership, and Tarleton pride.Momma T shares her story, the impact she has made on students and the Stephenville community, and what it means to truly bleed purple. From the relationships she has built to the passion she brings everywhere she goes, this episode highlights the heart behind one of Tarleton State University’s most recognizable personalities.Tune in for a fun, inspiring conversation about service, community, passion, and making a lasting impact on the people around you.Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow Connecting the Dots for more conversations with the people helping shape Stephenville.

Chad Decker - Episode 9

On this week’s episode of Connecting the Dots, we sit down with Chad Decker, owner and operator of Hard Eight BBQ. Known for his barbecue and the impact Hard Eight has made across the state of Texas, Chad shares the story behind how it all began, what life looked like before the restaurant, and the work it took to build Hard Eight into what it is today. We also get to hear about the lessons learned along the way, the people who helped shape the journey, and what the future looks like for Hard Eight BBQ. From business and barbecue to family, growth, and community, this conversation peels back the layers of a story that has become a big part of Stephenville and beyond. Tune in now to hear Chad Decker’s story!

JJ Hampton - Episode 8

On this episode of Connecting the Dots, we sit down with the legendary JJ Hampton — an 18-time World Champion, 25-time National Champion, and a proud member of the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame. JJ shares her story of growing up in the western world, building a championship career, and what it took to compete at the highest level across multiple disciplines. She also opens up about the importance of family, the people who helped shape her journey, and what it meant to receive the call inviting her into the Cowgirl Hall of Fame. From rodeo arenas to social media, JJ’s story is one of grit, faith, fun, and staying true to who you are. Her impact reaches far beyond the titles she has won — it is seen in the lives she has influenced, the legacy she continues to build, and the way she represents Stephenville as the City of Champions. Tune in now to hear our full conversation with JJ Hampton on Connecting the Dots.

James Andrae - Episode 7

In this episode of Connecting the Dots, Jeff sits down with James Andrae to talk about the craft behind shaping hats and the uniqueness that goes into every cowboy hat he creates. Each hat tells a different story — shaped by the person wearing it, the life they live, and the style that makes them who they are. James shares what goes into creating a custom hat, from the small details to the personal touches that make each piece one of a kind. Throughout the conversation, we learn that a cowboy hat is more than something you wear — it can be a reflection of personality, tradition, hard work, and individuality. Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeartRadio.