What in East Dallas is Going On?!

Architecture shapes more than the homes we live in. It influences culture, community, and even the way we see ourselves. In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?!, Rich and Camille sit down with architects Justin Lial and Bentley Tibbs to talk about the power of design and the upcoming AIA Dallas Tour of Homes 2025.From the way a space is laid out to how it reflects the character of East Dallas, architecture has the ability to connect people and leave a lasting mark on a community. This is more than just bricks and blueprints—it is about the stories our homes tell.For more on the AIA Dallas Tour of Homes, visit AIADALLAS.com.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! Camille and Rich welcome Willis, a scholarship recipient from the Exchange Club of East Dallas who is now thriving as a business analyst for a local home builder. Willis shares his powerful story of perseverance, growing up with parents who never made it past middle school, and how community support opened doors for his future. Joining him is Brian Bessner, longtime Exchange Club member and cofounder of Woodrow Fest, who talks about the incredible work the club is doing for local students and families. This is more than a story about scholarships. It is about what happens when a community comes together to lift up the next generation.FIND OUT MORE! https://www.exchangeclubofeastdallas.orgConnect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?! Camille and Rich sit down with Erica Pepper and Andrea Lamarsaude to talk about the East Dallas Arts District and why art matters so much to our community. From the way art reflects culture to how it shapes our neighborhoods and brings people together, this conversation dives deep into the role creativity plays in East Dallas. Whether you are a lifelong supporter of the arts or just starting to explore, you will come away with a greater appreciation for the talent and vision that make our community unique.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

Podcast Description:Rich and Camille sit down with the incredible Kate Weiser for a conversation that is equal parts funny, surprising, and delicious. Kate shares amazing behind-the-scenes stories about her journey from a family kitchen in Kansas to becoming one of the most celebrated chocolatiers in America. She reveals how she came up with the name Kate Weiser Chocolate (you might be surprised), drops a little breaking news, and even treats us to some of the best chocolate we’ve ever tasted. From being named one of the Top 10 Chocolatiers in North America to landing on Oprah’s Favorite Things list, Kate continues to push the boundaries of creativity and artistry in chocolate. This episode is full of laughs, inspiration, and a sweet reminder of how passion can turn into a legacy.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

The Chamber Chicks talk with It’s A Good Sign,  owned by East Dallas residents and entrepreneurs, Greg and Gayle Lynch, who have lived in the Lochwood neighborhood for more than 22 years. https://itsagoodsign.comConnect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

This week Camille and Rich welcome East Dallas resident Julian Sol Jordan, a 24-year-old filmmaker, cinematographer, editor, and musician whose work blends documentary and narrative styles with a deeply personal touch. His most recent project, REAL LIFE, an experimental documentary created entirely on his own, is filled with scenes and moments from East Dallas, grounding the film in the neighborhood where he lives. The project was highlighted by IndieWire as part of the Future of Filmmaking initiative, recognizing Julian as one of the fresh voices reshaping independent cinema. Beyond film, Julian is also part of the indie music duo Sunrise Academy, whose songs have gained a viral following online. In this conversation, Julian shares how East Dallas inspires his work, what it means to tell stories that are honest and alive, and how film, photography, and music give him a way to capture both memory and the present moment.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

This week’s Chamber Chicks spotlight shines on Bess Dickson, a global real estate advisor who blends professionalism, expertise, and a whole lot of fun into every deal she touches. Bess has been in the real estate game for over a decade, but for her it is never just about the transaction. It is about the people, the relationships, and the stories that come with each home.Her love for houses runs deep. Growing up, her parents renovated a 100 year old home, sparking her passion for history and design. Later, living in a Frank Lloyd Wright heritage home only fueled her appreciation for architecture and timeless style. Before real estate, Bess was an entrepreneur, a path inspired by her father’s example. Those years taught her the leadership, problem solving, and marketing skills she now brings to every client she serves.Bess is also deeply rooted in her community. She is a breast cancer survivor, a board member of the Katy Trail, a supporter of organizations like Back on My Feet and New Friends New Life, and she is even a two time salsa champion. Every commission she earns gives back to causes close to her heart, making every client’s real estate journey part of something bigger.Whether you are buying, selling, or just dreaming, Bess will make the process joyful, meaningful, and memorable and she might even keep you laughing the whole way through.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

He was born in a refugee camp after World War II, raised in Texas, and did not start running until he was 32. Now in his seventies, he is a national cycling champion, author, and neighborhood legend known simply as Z.In this episode, Camille and Rich sit down with Zoltan Zsohar, East Dallas resident and author of Surviving Through Faith, to hear the incredible true story of how his family escaped Communist Hungary and started over in America with nothing but their faith to guide them.From the trauma of war to the thrill of victory, Z has lived a life most of us could not imagine. And he is still riding strong.You will laugh. You will be moved. And you will walk away inspired.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

Step into the bustling atmosphere of Palmer's restaurant as we bring you a special live recording episode of "What In East Dallas Is Going On!?!" recorded during the watch party for his feature on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Amidst the vibrant energy of the event, Palmer joins us for an exclusive interview, sharing the excitement and behind-the-scenes stories of being spotlighted on national television. As plates are passed and glasses clink, Palmer unveils a delectable new menu item, adding to the evening's culinary delight. Join us in the heart of East Dallas as we celebrate food, community, and the thrill of television stardom on this unforgettable episode!Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

What happens when the kids leave the house? For Sharon Kirkpatrick, it was the start of something new. In this episode, we sit down with the founder of The Empty Nest Social (TENS)... a community built for parents navigating life after the kids have moved on.But this isn’t just a social group. From supporting local nonprofits to giving college-bound seniors a head start with their College Dorm Start-Up Kits, TENS is about connection, compassion and giving back.Join Camille and Rich as we talk about the heart behind TENS, the impact they’re making in East Dallas and how life’s next chapter might be your best one yet.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com