In this episode of Stories with Soul, host Jamey Ice sits down with Hal Brown, founder of Panther City Media Group and the driving force behind Fort Worth Magazine and Fort Worth Ink. From his roots in Arlington Heights to playing safety for TCU to becoming one of Fort Worth's most influential media entrepreneurs, Hal shares his journey of building publications that authentically capture the city's spirit. The conversation explores the evolution of local media, the challenges of independent publishing, and how Hal's platforms have supported over 225 local non-profits while helping to shape Fort Worth's identity during a time of tremendous growth.
In this powerful episode, twin entrepreneurs Susan Gruppi Miller and Jessica Miller Essl of M2G Ventures reveal how they've built a $1.5 billion real estate empire while maintaining their unique sister dynamic. From their first ambitious deal to transforming iconic Fort Worth spaces, they share intimate insights about scaling a business, navigating partnership, and turning personal tragedy into purpose through their mental health initiative. Their story is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, leadership, and the power of intentional growth.
In this episode of Stories with Soul, Jamey Ice sits down with Lizzy Bentley, founder and CEO of City Boots. From her roots in Amarillo to building a distinctive boot brand in Fort Worth, Lizzy shares how she transformed her passion for vintage cowboy boots into a thriving business. Through honest conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth, she offers insights about measured risk-taking, following your instincts, and building a brand while navigating life's challenges.
In this episode of Stories with Soul, host Jamey Ice welcomes Doug Renfro and Becky Renfro Borbolla, the third-generation leaders of Fort Worth's own Renfro Foods. From their grandfather's start in 1940 to becoming the #1 independent salsa brand in America, the cousins share how innovation, integrity, and helping others succeed has driven their growth. Through candid conversation about family dynamics, business scaling, and product development, they offer insights into building a global brand while maintaining family values.
In this tactical episode of Stories with Soul, host Jamey Ice sits down with Trey Bowles (Managing Director of Techstars Physical Health Fort Worth) and Cameron Cushman (Director of Innovation Ecosystems at HSC) to unpack what it takes to build successful startups and thriving entrepreneurial communities. From the importance of persistence and coachability to practical advice about fundraising and scaling, these ecosystem builders share candid insights from their decades of experience supporting founders. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this conversation offers invaluable lessons about building sustainable businesses and the power of community in entrepreneurial success.
In this episode of Stories with Soul, host Jamey Ice sits down with Travis Patterson, a Fort Worth attorney who's redefining personal injury law. From his family's legacy of community service to building Patterson Law Group into one of Tarrant County's largest personal injury firms, Travis shares how he's created a different kind of law practice focused on authentic relationships and real impact. Beyond discussing his firm's innovative approach and landmark victories, Travis opens up about his passionate mission to end distracted driving, his new "Driving Change" podcast, and how he balances running a growing practice with teaching at Texas A&M Law School and prioritizing family life.
In this groundbreaking live episode of Stories with Soul, host Jamey Ice brings together three of Fort Worth's most compelling personalities for an honest conversation about building personal brands. Voice actor Sainty Nelsen (known for Trolls, Boss Baby, Gabby's Dollhouse, and Minions), NBC correspondent and podcast host Tony Green ("Tony and Henry On The Same Page"), and chef-turned-podcaster Tiffany Blackmon ("My So-Called Fabulous") share their journeys of putting themselves out there, creating authentic content, and building platforms that make a difference. From overcoming initial fears to balancing strategic content creation with genuine connection, these three powerhouses offer invaluable insights into what it takes to build a personal brand while staying true to yourself.
In this captivating episode of Stories with Soul, Jamey sits down with Marcus Paslay, the innovative force behind some of Fort Worth's most beloved restaurants. From launching Clay Pigeon in 2013 to his recent opening of Walloon's and acquisition of the iconic Mercado Juarez, Marcus shares the story behind building his successful restaurant group, Scratch Hospitality. Beyond his culinary ventures, Marcus opens up about the deeply personal mission of the Paslay Foundation, which he founded with his wife Emily to support children with learning differences. Whether he's crafting new dining concepts or giving back to the community, Marcus's passion for excellence and commitment to Fort Worth shine through in this conversation about food, family, and making a difference.
We’re flipping the script as Jamey Ice, the man behind the mic, takes a spin in the hot seat for an interview about his decades of entrepreneurship and his unwavering love for Fort Worth. Don’t miss this deep dive on the strengths, the weaknesses, and the inspiring advice of one of this city’s most accomplished serial entrepreneurs.
In this episode, Jamey and Melissa Ice sit down with Fort Worth's 45th Mayor, Mattie Parker. She’s the politician and visionary reshaping this city's landscape, but even more, she’s a remarkable leader, dedicated wife, and passionate mother of 3. Overflowing with inspiring stories and sage advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves Fort Worth or who wants to learn what it takes to be a better leader.
In this episode, Jamey sits down with Derrick Kinney - financial expert, podcast host of Good Money with Derrick Kinney, bestselling author of Good Money Revolution: How to Make More Money to Do More Good, and CEO of Good Money Framework. Derrick shares his wisdom on wealth and walks us through his inspirational journey to success, revealing the pivotal moments and lessons that transformed him from an inexperienced financial planner to a bestselling author and multi-millionaire known for giving away money and making a true impact.
In this inspiring episode of Stories with Soul, Jamey sits down with Red Sanders, the trailblazing founder of RED Productions. Red's journey began at the age of 12 when he launched his first successful business (hint: you may have hired him for a school dance or wedding back in the early 2000s.) From there, he cultivated an unwavering passion and an entrepreneurial drive, launching and transforming RED Productions into one of the most successful media production companies in North Texas. Tune in to hear Red’s remarkable journey and invaluable wisdom for anyone seeking to carve their path in creative entrepreneurship.
In this empowering episode of Stories with Soul, Jamey sits down with Rusty Reid, the accomplished and admired President and CEO of Higginbotham. Tune in to learn how he went from being a pre-med undergraduate student to becoming the president of an insurance company less than 10 years later. You’re sure to walk away from this episode inspired and equipped to lead with purpose and to make a positive mark on your community and colleagues.
Jamey and Melissa sit down to hear the incredible story of a Fort Worth fashion power couple - Bekah and Tyler Pollock. If you don’t already know about their wildly successful boutique on Camp Bowie, Hale House, or https://shophalehouse.com/, we’re pretty sure you’ll be a huge fan after this episode. Tune in to hear how these two have seamlessly blended entrepreneurship with family life and how their inspiring story continues to evolve. This episode offers a glimpse into what's next for this beloved brand, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, fashion enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration in life and business!
Meet two of the Fort Worth coffee scene’s favorites: Mia Moss, owner of Black Coffee, and Katherine Morris, owner of Cherry Coffee Shop and Novel Coffee Roasters. These women are continually lifting up their communities while roasting and brewing some of North Texas’ best coffee. In this episode, you’ll hear their origin stories, take in wisdom about leadership, grasp the importance of rest, and leave feeling inspired to start something of your own.
Join Jamey for an awe-inspiring interview with entrepreneurial husband and wife duo, Jennie (aka @the.little.bird) and Brad Neathery (co-founder of Oak & Eden Whiskey, JOJO Cookie Dough Whiskey, Modern Huntsman, and more.) This episode explores the power of being told “no” and why “The American Dream” isn’t quite as dreamy as it might seem. Listen now for a faith-filled tale of saying “yes” without the fear of being told “no.”
Sarah Castillo, the founder and managing partner of Taco Heads, Sidesaddle Saloon and Tinies, shares the story of her rapid rise within the Fort Worth culinary and entertainment scene, as well as her next adventure, a local tequila distillery she describes as her “end game.” Sarah has changed the hospitality game in Cowtown by leveraging an entrepreneurial spirit and an unsurpassed feel for creating a fun, unforgettable vibe. Born and raised in Fort Worth, Sarah has taken inspiration from various stops along her journey, including the Lower Rio Grande Valley, Austin, Aspen, New York City and Spain, culminating in an altogether unique approach that has helped to set her apart from her peers in the industry. On this episode, we learn how a Saturday morning tee time and some breakfast tacos led to an idea that would ultimately launch a culinary empire, with Sarah’s passion, exuberance and soul on full display.
Katie Brown launched the ranch water cocktail craze when her Lone River Ranch Water hit shelves in 2020. She shares with Jamey and his wife, Melissa—both big fans of the product—how the drink pays homage to her Far West Texas roots. Although some of Katie's story may sound like the brand was an overnight success, many years of research, development, and hard work went into the product before Lone River was acquired by Diageo. Don't miss Katie sharing the original legend that started it all.
Joe T. Garcia’s has been a Fort Worth institution since 1935. The family-owned Mexican restaurant has become an iconic eatery in Cowtown while serving only two dishes at dinner, thanks in very large part to delivering one of the very best outdoor dining experiences in the state of Texas. In this episode of ‘Stories with Soul,’ we caught up with the two oldest Lancarte brothers, Lanny and Joe, to discuss Joe T’s remarkable evolution from a tiny six-table diner, to a sprawling, nationally renowned venue that can accommodate over 1,300 guests simultaneously. From the restaurant's humble beginnings, with Jessie (known affectionately as Mamasuez), Joe T., and their youngest daughter, Hope, leading the way, to its rise to prominence under the leadership of Hope’s children, Jamey and the guys covered it all.
Leonard Firestone co-founded Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co with Troy Robertson which included two signature products, TX Whiskey and TX Bourbon. He shares with Jamey how they quickly scaled to become the largest American whiskey distillery west of the Mississippi and one of the biggest brands to come out of Fort Worth. After selling to a multinational wine and spirits company, Pernod Ricard, Leonard was asked to serve on a COVID-19 task force by former Mayor Betsy Price. He has since remained active in the community, serving on multiple boards and as a current Fort Worth City Council member.