The Krista Escamilla Show

“My past does not define me, but it does give purpose to the work I do today.”-JD Leach
In this powerful episode of The Krista Escamilla Show, Krista sits down with JD Leach, author, actor, father, and juvenile justice reform advocate, to share his deeply personal journey through the Texas juvenile justice system and beyond.
JD is the author of the memoir Behind Closed Eyes: The Echoes From Texas Juvenile Prison, where he courageously details his survival, rehabilitation, and the realities faced by young people inside the system.
Having spent many years in the oilfields of Midland, JD’s story is one rooted in West Texas, resilience, and redemption.
Today, JD lives in Granbury, Texas, where he continues to advocate for reform, raise awareness, and share his story to help protect and empower vulnerable youth.
He has also appeared in the film Lioness and recently filmed Stan the Man, using storytelling both on and off screen to spark conversation and change.
🎙️ In this episode, we discuss:
JD’s experience inside the Texas juvenile justice system
What inspired him to write Behind Closed Eyes
The long road to healing and purpose after incarceration
How he went from the oilfield to the big screen.
The time he rode a lawn mower across Texas to raise money for a great cause.
This is an honest, raw, and hopeful conversation about resilience, accountability, and the power of sharing your truth.
👍 Please like, subscribe, review and share this episode, these stories matter.
A special thank you to our Sponsors: Omni Midland Hotel Rig-ID Workwear Midland Cap Co. The Preserve at Midland The Locklin Hotel Thin FR www.Joincapclub.com We appreciate you supporting local.
WE are cheering for you. Dream Big~Believe~Never Give Up
Thanks for Listening :)

What does it look like to create real change in education both inside and outside the classroom?
In this episode of The Krista Escamilla Show, Krista sits down with Ashley B. Cash, education advocate, entrepreneur, real estate investor, and host of The Path Forward podcast to talk about how she is helping shape the future of education through legislative advocacy and leadership.
Ashley shares how her passion for education has led her beyond traditional roles and into policy and legislative efforts aimed at improving outcomes for students, families, and educators.
She also opens up about balancing advocacy with entrepreneurship, investing in real estate, and staying purpose-driven through every season of life.
🎙️ In this episode, we discuss:
How Ashley is influencing education through legislative efforts
Why advocacy matters for long-term change in schools
Her journey as an entrepreneur and real estate investor
The vision behind The Path Forward podcast Encouragement for anyone feeling called to lead, serve, or step into advocacy
This episode is a powerful reminder that when passion meets action, meaningful change happens.
👍 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode if it inspires you.
Follow Ashley B. Cash on her website https://www.ashleybcash.com/
 
A huge thank you to the amazing sponsors of The Krista Escamilla Show! 💛 Your support allows us to share powerful stories, highlight our community, and continue meaningful conversations that inspire others.
So grateful for your partnership and belief in what we do.
Thank you Omni Midland Hotel, Rig-ID Workwear, Midland Cap Co., The Preserve at Midland, The Locklin Hotel, Thin FR and www.joincapclub.com
 
Thanks for listening...YOU make it a great day!
 
The Krista Escamilla Show Education advocacy Education legislation Education policy Women in leadership Education reform Entrepreneurship journey Real estate investor The Path Forward podcast Faith and leadership Women changing education West Texas podcast

Water impacts every part of life in West Texas and in this episode of The Krista Escamilla Show, we’re diving into all things water with Norman Ashton, General Manager of MCUD (Midland County Utility District).
From where our water comes from, to how it’s managed, planned for, and protected, Norman breaks down what MCUD does and why water matters so much to the future of Midland and West Texas.
This is an informative and timely conversation that helps residents better understand one of our most important resources.
Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or just curious about how water works in our region, this episode is packed with insight you’ll want to hear.
👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to help support local conversations that matter.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
A huge thank you to the businesses that make The Krista Escamilla Show possible:
Omni Midland Hotel
Rig-ID
ThinFR
The Locklin Hotel
Midland Cap Co.
CAP Club – learn more at www.joincapclub.com
Your support helps us continue sharing stories, conversations, and information that matter to West Texas.
 
Thanks for Listening!
Dream Big~Believe~Never Give UP

Happy New YEAR!!! Start your year inspired!
As we close out 2025 and say hello to 2026, we want to thank you for listening to The Krista Escamilla Show.
State Senator Kevin Sparks joins me this week for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about leadership, faith, family, and West Texas values.
Kevin shares his journey from graduating the University of Texas to becoming CEO of an oil and gas company, serving as an elder at Stonegate Fellowship, and now representing West Texans in the State Senate.
We talk about:
What makes West Texas so special
How he went from UT grad to CEO
Why faith plays such a central role in his life
Why he doesn’t consider himself a “politician”
Why his favorite titles will always be husband, dad, and grandpa
And his Favorite Life Hack...AKA his beautiful wife 
This episode is all about purpose, integrity, and staying grounded while making a difference.
✨ If you love stories about leadership, service, faith, and family, this one will encourage and inspire you.
👉Listen now and share with a friend who loves West Texas! Thanks for listening! And please leave a review...I appreciate your support.
As always I am cheering for you to have all your dreams come true and for you to live your best life.
DEAM BIG~BELIEVE~NEVER GIVE UP

Welcome to this week’s episode of The Krista Escamilla Show.
Today, I’m honored to share the inspiring story of Mike Crowley the Minister of Fairmont Park Church of Christ. Mike opens up about his journey in ministry, his heart for serving others, and the powerful ways faith and community come together at Fairmont Park.
We also dive into their upcoming event, The Christmas Story, happening this Sunday, December 14th from 6-8pm.
Families are invited to enjoy a festive train ride, cookies, cocoa, games, and a special visit with Santa. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season, connect with others, and create meaningful memories.
Thank you for watching and supporting stories that inspire. You can listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch right here on YouTube.
A special thank-you to our show sponsors who make these conversations possible. We appreciate your support.
Omni Midland Hotel, Rig-ID Workwear, Midland Cap Co., The Preserve at Midland, The Locklin Hotel, Thin FR and www.joincapclub.com  
We hope you will join us in supporting local wherever you live. 
Please know that we are cheering for you and you are never alone on this journey. Dream Big~Believe~Never Give UP.
 
 
 

Welcome to Episode 114 of The Krista Escamilla Show.Today, we are honored to share the inspiring story of Tonya Eckert, Executive Director of Casa de Amigos. Tonya’s leadership, compassion, and commitment to empowering Midland families showcase the very best of what community service is all about.
Whether you're listening in your car, on a walk, at home, or taking a quick break at work, thank you for joining us. Tonya’s story is one you won’t want to miss.
In this episode, Tonya shares:• Her journey into nonprofit leadership• The mission and impact of Casa de Amigos• The programs changing lives throughout Midland• Why community resources and connection matter• Her hopes for the future of the families they serve
Thank you to our sponsors who make these weekly conversations possible:Rig-ID WorkwearOmni Midland HotelThin FRLocklin HotelThe Preserve at Midland
Midland Cap Co.
Kevin Foreman – Foreman FinancialJoinCapClub.com
When you support local businesses, you strengthen our entire community.
Tune in and be inspired by Tonya’s passion, heart, and dedication to serving the Permian Basin.
Thanks for Listening.
Please Subscribe and Share with someone who loves West Texas.
And for daily inspiration follow @KristaEscamilla on all social media platforms. 
 
Dream Big~Believe~Never Give UP

Meet Jennifer Leshnower, a world-renowned second violinist of the Cassatt Quartet whose musical journey has taken her across North & Central America, Europe, and Asia… yet she continues to bring her heart and talent back home to West Texas.
In this inspiring episode of The Krista Escamilla Show, Jennifer shares:
What sparked her love for music Her global career performing on some of the most respected stages
The story behind founding Cassatt in the Basin, a chamber music residency that brings world-class music education to the Permian Basin
Why the arts matter so deeply in our communities How music connects people, cultures, and generations
Whether you’re a classical music fan, a dreamer, or someone who loves a great story about passion meeting purpose — this conversation will stay with you.
 
ABOUT JENNIFER LESHNOWER: Jennifer is a celebrated violinist with the internationally acclaimed Cassatt Quartet. A West Texas native, she founded Cassatt in the Basin in 2005 to bring high-caliber chamber music education and performances to students, families, and communities across the Permian Basin.
A HUGE THANK YOU to our amazing sponsors: Rig-ID Workwear Omni Midland Hotel The Preserve at Midland ThinFR Midland Cap Co. The Locklin Hotel www.joincapclub.com
Your support helps us bring inspiring conversations like this to life. ❤️
🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to support more inspiring stories!
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & Google Play. 

This week on The Krista Escamilla Show, I’m joined by my friend, author, and blogger Amy Weatherly and let me tell you, this one was SO much fun! 💕
Amy is the co-author of several bestselling books including “I’ll Be There (But I’ll Be Wearing Sweatpants)”, and she’s the queen of keeping it real when it comes to friendship, life, and showing up as your true self (even if your hair’s in a messy bun).
We laugh, we get a little deep, and we talk about why finding your people and being that kind of friend really matters.
Grab your favorite comfy pants, a cup of coffee, and enjoy this heartwarming conversation between two friends. ☕👖
Thank you Amy for your friendship and for making millions of women feel like they are not alone in this journey of sisterhood.
A HUGE thank you to our amazing sponsors who help make The Krista Escamilla Show possible! 💫
Rig-ID Workwear – keeping hard-working folks looking sharp and protected.Omni Midland Hotel – where comfort meets West Texas hospitality.The Preserve at Midland – beautiful living spaces that feel like home.Thin FR – for dependable, stylish flame-resistant workwear that works as hard as you do.The Locklin Hotel – a true gem where charm and comfort meet.JoinCapClub.com – helping you connect, grow, and belong to something great.
We couldn’t do this without you-thank you for supporting real conversations and community connection! 💙
#KristaEscamillaShow #AmyWeatherly #FriendshipGoals #RealTalk #PodcastInterview #IllBeThereButIllBeWearingSweatpants #WomenSupportingWomen #MessyBunCrew

❤️ Heart disease is the number one killer but the good news is, there’s so much we can do to prevent it.
In Episode 111 of The Krista Escamilla Show, Dr. Anand Cholia shares his personal story and expert tips for keeping your heart healthy.
From lifestyle habits and nutrition to managing stress, Dr. Cholia breaks down practical steps we can all take to protect our hearts and live longer, stronger lives.
🎧 Tune in to learn how small choices can make a big difference for your heart health.
🙏 Special thanks to our amazing sponsors:Omni Midland Hotel • Rig-ID Workwear • Thin FR • The Locklin Hotel • Kevin Foreman of Foreman Financial • The Preserve at Midland • Midland Cap Co. • www.joincapclub.com
#DrAnandCholia #HeartHealth #TheKristaEscamillaShow #HeartDiseaseAwareness #HealthyLiving #PreventionMatters #MidlandTexas #HealthPodcast #WestTexasStories #Cardiology #HeartStrong #CommunityHealth

"Skills build wills.” -Martin Vega
In Episode 110 of The Krista Escamilla Show, I recently sat down with Martin Vega, the owner of Midland Athletic Company, to talk about the power of health, community, and perseverance.
Martin shares how health literacy can transform lives, what he’s learned as an entrepreneur, and why community events like the Energy City bring people together in such a powerful way. 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️
Thank you Martin for your time and for giving us great options for footwear in West Texas.
A Special thanks to our amazing sponsors: Omni Midland Hotel, Rig-ID Workwear, The Locklin Hotel , The Preserve at Midland, Thin FR , Midland Cap Co. & www.joincapclub.com
For more information on running events in our area go to: https://www.theathleticcompany.com/
🎧 Tune in to this inspiring conversation about discipline, health, and building a business that impacts a community on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform.
 
#MidlandAthleticCompany #TheKristaEscamillaShow #HealthLiteracy #MidlandTexas #EnergyCity #Entrepreneurship #PodcastEpisode #WestTexasStories #CommunityHealth #SkillsBuildWills