Step inside Midland TX's newest culinary sensation as restaurant owner Perla Bisono shares the story behind Antojo Pura Vida, bringing authentic Mexico City flavors to West Texas. From its stunning decor to innovative craft cocktails, this restaurant is redefining the dining experience in Midland. Born in the Dominican Republic and previously working in New York, Perla transformed her background in psychology into a successful career in hospitality. Her vision combines authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly from Mexico City, with an atmosphere that makes everyone feel like family. The restaurant's name, meaning "craving the good life," perfectly captures its essence. Antojo Pura Vida stands out with its unique blend of exceptional food and masterfully crafted cocktails. The menu features distinctive dishes like sopa de tinga and tableside guacamole, while the bar program showcases creative seasonal offerings including their signature carajillos. In just three months since opening, this restaurant has become a standout destination in Midland's dining scene. With its beautiful patio, VIP second floor, and commitment to creating memorable experiences, Antojo Pura Vida offers more than just a meal – it's a celebration of culture, community, and exceptional hospitality. Visit Antojo Pura Vida at 1008 South Bakespring Street in Midland, Texas. Open every day except Monday. Follow their journey on Instagram and Facebook @antojopuravida for special events and seasonal offerings. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Perla Bisono, Owner of Antojo Pura Vida 06:25 - Transitioning from Manager to Restaurant Owner 08:16 - Transforming an Existing Space into a New Restaurant 10:38 - Designing a Unique Food and Drink Menu 13:12 - Public Reception and Feedback 14:42 - Effective Marketing Strategies 19:18 - Tips for Aspiring Restaurant Owners 20:48 - Challenges That Keep You Up at Night 23:50 - Difficulty in Finding Staff 25:35 - Importance of Food vs. Service 26:58 - Future Plans for Antojo Pura Vida 28:57 - Availability for Holiday Parties 29:56 - Must-Try Dishes at Antojo Pura Vida Best of Midland Texas was created focusing on small, local businesses and has been designed to help you find only the best locally owned companies and live events here in Midland. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://www.fortywolves.com

In this episode of the Best of Midland Texas Podcast, host Ryan Shewchuk dive deep into the future of education in Midland Texas with Emily Statton Smith. Join us as we dive into Emily's passionate vision for the Midland Independent School District, particularly her commitment to enhancing the educational landscape for young students and families. Packed with insights, Emily brings her unique perspective as a lawyer and a dedicated mother, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of our schools. Emily discusses her candidacy for the MISD School Board, highlighting the need for early intervention in elementary education to prevent future challenges. Her experience with budgeting and policy-making offers a fresh approach to board responsibilities, focusing on safety, communication, and curriculum enhancements. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the educational and community growth of Midland Texas. Thank you to our guest, Emily Statton Smith, for her valuable insights and dedication to making a difference. Connect with us and Emily on social media to stay updated on her campaign and the impact she hopes to have. Subscribe to the Best of Midland Texas Podcast for more episodes featuring local leaders and initiatives. If you’re interested in being a guest, reach out to us. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the conversation driving change in our community! CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:27 - School Board Candidacy 05:52 - Community Involvement 11:08 - Role of the School Board 14:16 - School Construction on Golf Course 19:57 - Effective Communication 24:06 - Teacher Recruitment Strategies 28:21 - Implementing Quick Changes 31:13 - Homework Policies 34:25 - Emily's School Board Goals 38:31 - Why Vote for Emily 42:06 - Find Emily Online 42:35 - Outro Best of Midland Texas was created focusing on small, local businesses and has been designed to help you find only the best locally owned companies and live events here in Midland. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://www.fortywolves.com

In this episode of the Best of Midland Texas Podcast, hosts Ryan Shewchuk engages in a lively conversation with Brian Stubbs, a candidate for Midland TX City Council. Join us as we dive head first into the critical issues facing Midland Texas and explore Brian's vision for the community. Packed with insights, Brian shares his plans to revitalize downtown, improve community retention, and address the firemen's pension fund. As a successful business owner and Six Sigma Black Belt, Brian brings unique problem-solving skills to the table. His dedication to Midland, combined with his leadership experience, makes him a compelling candidate poised to drive positive change. This episode is not just an interview; it’s a narrative on community involvement and leadership. The Best of Midland Texas was created focusing on small, local businesses and the vibrant community that supports them. Thank you to our guest, Brian Stubbs, for sharing his thoughts and aspirations. Connect with us on social media, subscribe to the podcast, and reach out if you're interested in being a guest. Subscribe and stay tuned for more stories that highlight the best of Midland Texas! CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:40 - City Council Candidacy Motivation 02:39 - Responsibilities of City Council Members 06:05 - Board Experience and City Council Preparation 08:06 - Selecting the Right Boards to Join 11:21 - Top Priorities for Midland City Council 14:28 - Personal Connection to Midland 16:39 - Why Voters Should Choose You 18:41 - Community Involvement Opportunities 21:15 - Outro CONNECT WITH US Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://fortywolves.com RECORDED AT SECOND STORY COWORKING https://secondstory.co

In this episode of the Best of Midland Texas Podcast, hosts Ryan Shewchuk and Terra Avery sit down with Drake Vliem, the winner of Netflix's Outlast Season 2, to explore his incredible journey of survival in the Alaskan wilderness. Packed with insights and gripping stories, this conversation unveils Drake's strategic preparation, his experiences with the wilderness diet, and the mental fortitude required to outlast the competition with his cohort, Drew. Join us as we dive into the trials and triumphs that shaped Drake's path to victory, highlighting his resilience and the importance of integrity in high-stakes reality TV. This episode not only celebrates Drake's achievement but also emphasizes the Best of Midland Texas's commitment to uplifting local stories. Thank you to our guest, Drake Vliem, for sharing his remarkable adventure. Connect with us to learn more about the vibrant Midland Texas community. Subscribe to the podcast for more inspiring stories and reach out if you're interested in being a guest to share your unique experiences. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:30 - Tera's Update 01:10 - Drake's Involvement 04:42 - Show Preparation 06:40 - Pre-Show Activities 09:04 - Show Strategy 10:03 - Bio Trapper Water Theft 11:04 - Season 1 Highlights 12:28 - Foraging and Hunting Techniques 17:50 - Journey Conclusion 20:16 - Camp Distances 22:45 - Squirrel Taste Experience 24:18 - Surprising Aspects of Survival 26:53 - Discussing Poop 28:55 - Viewing Surprises 32:03 - First Call to Wife 34:08 - Would You Repeat This? 36:50 - Homecoming Reactions 39:20 - First Meal After Show 40:43 - Future Plans for Tera 43:18 - Outro Best of Midland Texas was created focusing on small, local businesses and has been designed to help you find only the best locally owned companies and live events here in Midland. CONNECT WITH US Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://www.fortywolves.com RECORDED AT SECOND STORY STUDIO https://www.secondstory.co

In this episode of the Best of Midland Texas Podcast, hosts Ryan Shewchuk and Terra Avery sit down with Erin Bailey of Diamondback Energy ( @DiamondbackEnergy_EP to explore the bold new venture of launching their very own podcast, "Fueling Tomorrow." This episode is packed with insights into how a $30 billion company integrates community engagement into its corporate narrative through the power of podcasting. Join us as we jump into Erin's unique journey from a background in broadcasting and sports management to her impactful role at Diamondback Energy. Erin shares fascinating stories of the company's community-focused initiatives in Midland and Oklahoma City, highlighting substantial contributions like the $7.5 million donation to the Midland Athletic Syndicate. This conversation is not only inspiring but also demonstrates the innovative ways big companies can connect with their communities. The Best of Midland Texas was created focusing on local businesses, and this episode provides valuable lessons on effective communication strategies and community involvement. Thank you to our guest, Erin Bailey, for sharing her expertise and vision. Connect with us on social media, subscribe to the podcast for more engaging stories from Midland Texas, and reach out if you're interested in being a guest. Discover more about the thriving local community and subscribe today to stay updated with the latest episodes! #PodcastMarketingStrategies #OilGasTrends #Podcast #EnergyIndustryInsights CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:38 - Who is Erin Bailey? 03:42 - Internal Podcast Insights 09:43 - Erin's Background 12:07 - Role at Diamondback Energy 14:29 - Social Media Engagement 17:10 - First Public Podcast in Energy Sector? 21:06 - Future of Fueling Tomorrow 25:19 - FTS #1 - Midland Athletic Syndicate 28:22 - Purpose of Monetizing Podcasts 30:55 - Entering the Communications Industry 32:44 - Understanding Sports Management 36:54 - Live News vs Podcasting 37:58 - Final Thoughts & Outro CONNECT WITH US Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://www.fortywolves.com @podcastdept

In this episode of the Best of Midland Texas Podcast, join hosts Ryan Shewchuk and Terra Avery as they chat about The Preserve, the massive new family-friendly destination in Midland TX. They welcome Adam Cunyus, co-founder of Dahlia Development, who shares exciting details about The Preserve —a colossal project featuring retail spaces, residential areas, a lake, parks, trails, and even a zoo! Adam's journey from scratch to creating this transformative space is packed with insights and inspiration. He discusses the project's inspiration, Allen Ridge, emphasizing its family-friendly and walkable design. From green spaces and boardwalks to rooftop terraces and stocked fishing lakes, The Preserve promises to be a vibrant community hub. Discover how The Preserve aims to attract both local and national retailers, making it a premier destination in Midland. Adam also touches on the challenges and triumphs of bringing such an ambitious project to life, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit of Midland Texas. Thank you to our guest, Adam Cunyus, for sharing his vision and passion. Connect with us, subscribe, and stay tuned for more episodes focusing on small, local businesses in Midland Texas. If you're interested in being a guest, reach out to us! More information: https://thepreservemidland.com Subscribe to the Best of Midland Texas Podcast for more engaging and informative episodes! CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:31 - Adam Cunyus Introduction 01:02 - The Preserve at Midland 05:35 - Local First Initiative 08:49 - Attracting National Brands 11:25 - Origin of The Preserve 17:25 - Future of The Preserve Apartments 19:43 - Dream Scenarios for The Preserve 21:40 - Midland Needs a Top Golf 27:55 - Midland Entrepreneurial Spirit 29:05 - Restaurants and Retailers for Midland 33:19 - The Range Development 35:00 - Unique Holiday for Midland 37:43 - The Preserve Overview 39:30 - Outro CONNECT WITH US Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://www.fortywolves.com @podcastdept

In this episode of the Best of Midland Texas Podcast, hosts Ryan Shewchuk and Terra Avery dive into the world of gut health, unveiling why it's far superior to relying on trendy weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. Joined by Chelcee Porter, a functional medicine pharmacist and gut health specialist, this episode is packed with insights that could transform your approach to wellness. Chelcee Porter breaks down the crucial role the gut plays as the cornerstone of overall health, explaining how symptoms like brain fog and arthritis can often be traced back to gut issues. She also highlights the dangers of quick-fix solutions like Ozempic, emphasizing the lack of education on the drug's severe side effects and the importance of addressing root causes rather than just treating symptoms. In her own story, Chelsea shares her journey from pharmacist to gut health guru, offering actionable advice on improving gut health through diet, lifestyle changes, and understanding the intricate balance of good and bad bacteria. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in true, sustainable health. Join us as we discuss the complexities of gut health, the pitfalls of medications like Ozempic, and how a holistic approach can lead to lasting wellness. Connect with us on social media, subscribe to the podcast, and reach out if you're interested in being a guest. Thank you to our guest, Chelcee Porter, for sharing her invaluable expertise.Visit her website: https://chelceeporter.com Subscribe to the Best of Midland Texas Podcast and stay tuned for more episodes focusing on small, local businesses and community well-being. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:45 - What is a functional medicine pharmacist 02:28 - Symptoms people come to you with 03:45 - IBS vs. other stomach issues 04:48 - Initial steps to improve gut health 05:50 - Lactose intolerance vs. food sensitivity 07:01 - Root causes of gut problems 08:16 - Gut health and weight loss connection 08:58 - Typical gut health regimen 10:21 - Stool test insights 14:15 - Overweight & Obesity 16:29 - Gut Health & Weight Loss 20:10 - Evolution of Humankind & Diet 23:30 - Inflammation 24:58 - Microbiome 30:34 - Fecal transplants 33:15 - What cultures are doing it right 34:23 - What is your diet like 37:40 - Technology’s role in gut health 40:18 - Food sensitivity tests 43:41 - OEA & OIC 48:45 - How OEA works 50:07 - Why OEA is better than OIC 52:47 - How to get a hold of Chelsea 56:14 - Don’t DIY FMT 57:31 - TikTok Ban 59:53 - Wrapping up 1:02:47 - How good you can feel 1:05:55 - Different philosophies on health 1:10:59 - Morning Routine 1:11:50 - Outro CONNECT WITH US Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://www.fortywolves.com @podcastdept

In this episode of the Best of Midland Texas Podcast, hosts Ryan Shewchuk and Terra Avery discuss the art and science of planning a live music festival. Join them as they sit down with Lisa Grissom, a seasoned event designer and co-founder of Promising Projects, who shares her extensive experience in organizing the Tall City Blues Fest in Midland, Texas. https://tallcitybluesfest.com Packed with insights into the world of live music production, this episode covers everything from the foundational elements of blues music to the logistical challenges of setting up a festival. Lisa offers a detailed narrative on how she and her team have evolved the Tall City Blues Fest over the years, including venue changes, lineup curation, and the unique cultural significance of blues in the Midland Texas community. Listeners will learn about the meticulous planning that goes into hiring musicians, technical production, and creative elements that make each festival a standout event. The episode also explores the broader impact of live music events on local businesses and the community, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in event design. Thank you to our guest, Lisa Grissom, for sharing her valuable expertise. Connect with us on social media to stay updated on future episodes, and subscribe to the Best of Midland Texas Podcast to never miss an episode. If you're passionate about local businesses and have a story to share, reach out to us – we'd love to feature you on the podcast! CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Intro 0:40 - What is an event producer 3:28 - Upcoming Events 8:42 - Tall City Blues Fest 15:14 - Festival Planning Timeline 19:40 - Involvement in Festivals 21:04 - Are you a blues lover 29:30 - Education for Event Producers 32:00 - Working in Uncertainty 38:50 - Curating the Experience 52:04 - Choosing the Right Venue 58:16 - Favorite Events 58:50 - Bucket List Events 1:07:27 - Nightmare Artists 1:15:24 - Creating a Great Experience for Musicians 1:25:50 - What's Your Next Festival 1:30:00 - Final Thoughts 1:32:00 - Outro CONNECT WITH US Website: https://www.bestofmidlandtx.com Ryan Shewchuk: https://www.instagram.com/shewchuk Terra Avery: https://www.instagram.com/terrawaypants TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@bestofmidlandtx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofmidlandtx Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofmidlandtx Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestofmidlandtx —----------------------- LISTEN / SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/bomtxitunes Spotify: https://bit.ly/bomtxspotify —----------------------- PRODUCED AND EDITED BY FORTY WOLVES STUDIOS https://www.fortywolves.com @podcastdept