The Northeast Texas Public Health District is hosting this podcast to untangle the jumbled "NET" of public health in East Texas.
This show invites your perceptions of public health in order for us to convey its relevance to your daily activities.
Casting The NET is the dedicated podcast of the Northeast Texas Public Health District (a.k.a., NET Health) located in Tyler, TX.
Food Trucks & Food Safety | A New Era of Permitting
Food truck operators across Texas are preparing for a major change as the state transitions to a new statewide permitting system for Mobile Food Units (MFUs). But what does that mean for vendors here in East Texas?
In this episode of Casting the NET, Environmental Health Director Ginger Points and Registered Sanitarian Jonathan Barena discuss the upcoming changes, including the Texas Department of State Health Services’ new role in issuing permits and how NET Health will continue conducting inspections to help ensure food safety throughout the region.
The conversation covers what vendors can expect during the transition, the differences between permitting and inspections, common food safety concerns, and why these changes are being implemented across Texas. Whether you’re a food truck owner, event organizer, or simply interested in how public health works behind the scenes, this episode offers valuable insight into the future of mobile food service regulation.
Tune in to learn what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and what food truck operators need to know moving forward.
DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Permit Information (https://www.dshs.texas.gov/retail-food-establishments/permits-retail-food-establishments/mobile-food-vendors)
NET Health Environmental Health Services (https://www.mynethealth.org/departments/environmental-health/eh-overview/)
1 May 2026
Farm to Family: WIC Farmers Markets Return
In this episode of Casting the NET, we sit down with Tammy Proctor, MS, RD, LD, Nutrition Education Coordinator with NET Health WIC, to talk about the return of the WIC Farmers Market Program.
With farmers market season right around the corner, Tammy breaks down what WIC families can expect this year, how the program works, who qualifies, and how eligible participants can use vouchers to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables.
The WIC Farmers Market Program kicks off May 1st and helps connect families with fresh produce while supporting local farmers across our community.
WIC Farmers Market (https://www.mynethealth.org/departments/women-infants-and-children-wic/wic-farmers-markets/)
WIC Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562625137047)
WIC Locations in East Texas (https://www.mynethealth.org/departments/women-infants-and-children-wic/clinic-locations/)
For more information, visit mynethealth.org (http://mynethealth.org) and follow NET Health on social media for updates.
6 Feb 2026
Take Heart, Take Action: How a 5k Can Change a Community
In this episode, we’re joined by Kayla with iTri365 and Joy Johnson, Assistant Director of NET Health’s Center for Healthy Living, to talk about the Take Heart Run and how events like this play a powerful role in supporting community wellness.
We discuss:
The mission behind iTri365 and community-focused running events
How the Take Heart Run supports heart health and physical activity
Why the beginning of the year is the perfect time to focus on movement and healthy habits
How proceeds from the race directly benefit NET Health’s Center for Healthy Living
Why this race is welcoming for all fitness levels — from walkers to experienced runners
📅 Take Heart Run: February 21
🏃♀️ Distances: 5K & 10K
🔗 More info & registration: https://www.itri365.com/takeheart (https://www.itri365.com/takeheart)
https://www.facebook.com/RunTakeHeart (https://www.facebook.com/RunTakeHeart)
https://www.facebook.com/Itri365 (https://www.facebook.com/Itri365)
🎟️ Discount Code: Use NET10 for 10% off registration (mentioned in the episode!)
Whether you’re working on New Year’s resolutions, looking for a fun way to stay active, or want to support a great local cause, this episode — and this race — are a great place to start.
18 Aug 2025
Prepared, Not Panicked: Weathering the Storm in Smith County
When emergencies strike—whether it’s a tornado, flood, or prolonged power outage—preparedness can make all the difference. In this episode of Casting the NET, we sit down with Brandon Moore, Smith County’s Emergency Management Coordinator, and Russell Hopkins, Director of Public Health Emergency Preparedness at NET Health.
Together, we explore the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR), a vital tool that helps emergency planners identify residents who may need extra help during a disaster. We also highlight local programs that empower residents to get involved, including the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC).
From seasonal weather threats to county-wide response plans, this conversation breaks down how Smith County and NET Health are working together to build a more resilient and better-prepared East Texas.
NET Health's Public Health Emergency Preparedness (https://www.mynethealth.org/departments/public-health-preparedness/phep-overview/)
Smith County Emergency Management Office (https://www.smith-county.com/government/departments/emergency-management)
State of Texas' Emergency Preparedness Website (https://texasready.gov/)
City and/or County Signup for the Free 'Smart 911' Notification System in East Texas (https://www.etcog.org/alerts)
S.T.E.A.R. Enrollment page for the General Public to Sign Up (https://www.tdem.texas.gov/stear)
11 Jul 2025
Double the Freshness: Double Up Food Bucks with Sustainable Food Center
In this episode, we sit down with representatives from the Sustainable Food Center (SFC) to explore the Double Up Food Bucks program — a powerful initiative that helps SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) participants stretch their food dollars while supporting local farmers. This episode unpacks how the program works, where it’s available in East Texas, and how it brings healthier choices to more tables by doubling the value of fruits and vegetables at participating markets.
We also discuss the importance of food equity, the role of community partnerships, and how this program empowers both shoppers and growers alike.
Topics Covered:
🍎 What is the Double Up Food Bucks program?
🌽 How SNAP recipients can benefit from the dollar-for-dollar match
🛒 Participating farmers markets and retailers in our region
🌱 Why local food access matters for public health
🤝 How NET Health and SFC are partnering to promote food equity
Resources & Links:
🔗 Sustainable Food Center — https://sustainablefoodcenter.org/ (https://sustainablefoodcenter.org/)
🔗 Double Up Food Bucks Texas — https://doubleuptexas.org/ (https://doubleuptexas.org/)
📸 Follow SFC on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/sfclocal/ (https://www.instagram.com/sfclocal/)
📘 Like SFC on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/SustainableFoodCenter/ (https://www.facebook.com/SustainableFoodCenter/)
13 Jun 2025
Wellness at Work: Supporting Moms, Meals, and Motivation
Hosts Thomas Alford and Terrence Ates explore how East Texas employers cultivate supportive workplaces through initiatives like Mother-Friendly certification and improved food options, leading to healthier employees.
29 May 2025
Double the Insight: Twin Nutritionists Fueling WIC
Twin Nutritionists discuss their shared journey into public health and describe how they collaborate within the WIC program to improve the well-being of families in East Texas in this interview.
2 Jan 2025
Season Finale: From Challenges to Triumphs: Reflections with NET Health's CEO
In the season finale of Casting the NET, we’re honored to sit down with George T., Roberts Jr, CEO of NET Health for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Throughout this season, we’ve explored the incredible work of department directors who drive the public health mission forward. Now, we’re closing the season by going straight to the top.
In this episode, our CEO reflects on NET Health’s recent accomplishments, shares how the organization has navigated challenges and provides a visionary outlook for the future. From the vital role of collaboration across departments to the exciting initiatives on the horizon, this discussion ties together the season's themes while offering fresh perspectives on leadership and innovation in public health.
Whether you’re a public health enthusiast, a NET Health team member, or someone curious about the behind-the-scenes efforts of improving community health, this episode delivers valuable insights and inspiration.
Highlights of the Episode:
The CEO’s journey to leading NET Health
Reflections on the successes and challenges of recent years
The importance of teamwork and interdepartmental collaboration
A sneak peek at NET Health’s strategic goals and future initiatives
Tune in for an engaging wrap-up to the season and discover how NET Health’s mission continues to evolve under visionary leadership.
30 Dec 2024
W.I.C. - A Wise Investment in Children Pt. 2
In this powerful follow-up episode of Casting the NET, we sit down with Tecora Smith, the inspiring Director of WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) at NET Health. As a former WIC mom who worked her way up to lead the program, Tecora’s passion for supporting families and improving maternal and infant health in East Texas shines through in every word.
In Part One, we explored the services and mission of WIC. Now, in Part Two, Tecora shares her personal journey and dives deeper into the challenges and disparities faced by families in our region. From addressing high infant mortality rates to improving birth outcomes, Tecora’s perspective offers a heartfelt and insightful look at the obstacles WIC works tirelessly to overcome.
Highlights of the Episode:
Tecora’s inspiring journey from WIC mom to Director of 21 WIC clinics in East Texas
A closer look at disparities affecting birth outcomes and maternal health
Challenges and solutions in combating infant mortality in our region
How WIC continues to support and uplift families in the community
Join us for an engaging and candid conversation that underscores the vital role of WIC in improving lives and fostering healthier communities.
https://texaswic.org (https://texaswic.org)
28 Oct 2024
Emergency Preparedness: Preparing for the Unexpected
We sit down with Russell Hopkins, Director of Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP), to explore the vital role of emergency readiness in public health. This conversation offers a high-level, “30,000-foot view” of PHEP, highlighting the essential strategies and frameworks that help us stay prepared for the unforeseen.
Join us as we dive into a variety of topics, including:
The fundamentals of Public Health Emergency Preparedness and its role within NET Health.
How PHEP collaborates across departments to ensure community safety.
Insights into Disease Surveillance and Epidemiology.
Key challenges and learnings from recent public health events.
Whether you’re curious about emergency preparedness or interested in how public health adapts to new challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
25 Sept 2024
Sanitarian Spotlight - A Day in the Life of a Health Inspector - Part 2
We’re back with Part 2 of our Environmental Health series. This time, we sit down with Ginger Points, Director of our Environmental Health Department at NET Health.
In this episode, Ginger shares her journey to becoming the director of the Environmental Health Department, what her role entails, and dives deep into the crucial services her team provides to protect public health in Northeast Texas.
If you enjoyed Part 1 with our Registered Sanitarian, you won’t want to miss this insightful follow-up!
MyNETHealth.org (https://www.mynethealth.org)
26 Aug 2024
The Center for Healthy Living
We speak with Joy Johnson, Director of the Center for Healthy Living. Join us as we explore the transformative programs that are empowering East Texans to live healthier, happier lives. From diabetes education to building better daily habits, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Whether you're looking to make a lifestyle change or just curious about local health initiatives, you won't want to miss this!
The Center for Healthy Living (https://www.mynethealth.org/services/center-for-healthy-living/overview-of-the-center/)
Blood Pressure Screening
Blood Glucose Screening
Cholesterol Screening
Breast & Cervical Cancer screening services
Phone: (903) 593 - 7474
Email: jjohnson@netphd.org
12 Jul 2024
Vital Statistics: The Lifeline of Public Records
Join us for an informative and engaging episode as we sit down with Rosie Meza to explore the vital statistics department and its crucial role in our community. We dive into what exactly vital statistics are, how to obtain a birth or death certificate, the various reasons you might need these documents, and the process of recording them.
Rosie shares her expertise from six years in the vital statistics department, including her experience as Department Director. Whether you’re curious about the behind-the-scenes process or need practical advice on obtaining these essential documents, this episode is packed with valuable information.
Vital Statistics (https://www.mynethealth.org/services/vital-statistics-birthdeath-records/)
14 Jun 2024
Peer Dad Program: The Value of Fatherhood
Celebrate the journey of fatherhood with our Peer Dad Program in "Peer Dad: The Value of Fatherhood." This special episode features guests Jason Rhodes and Alex Espinosa, who share their experiences as both expecting and seasoned fathers.
As we gear up for Father's Day, discover the support, fellowship, and valuable lessons that the Peer Dad Program offers to dads at every stage of their journey. Whether you're a new dad or a veteran, this program is here to help you navigate the joys and challenges of fatherhood.
https://www.facebook.com/NETHealthPeerDad (https://www.facebook.com/NETHealthPeerDad)
3 May 2024
W.I.C. - A Wise Investment in Children
We sit down with Jenny Lassiter, Assistant Director of WIC, to explore the essential services provided by our Women, Infants, and Children department Join us as we delve into how WIC supports the nutritional needs of families, offers breastfeeding support, and promotes healthy habits for women and children. Gain valuable insights into the eligibility criteria, benefits, and impact of WIC on community health. Whether you're a current participant or curious about WIC's offerings, this episode sheds light on the vital role WIC plays in supporting families' well-being.
WIC Main Admin Office (Tyler) : (903) 593 - 8331
East Texas WIC Office Locator (https://www.mynethealth.org/services/wic-women-infants-children/wic-office-locations/)
Apply for WIC (https://texaswic.org/apply)
12 Apr 2024
Sanitarian Spotlight - A Day in the Life of a Health Inspector
We sit down with one of our very own Registered Sanitarians (Jonathan Barena) to get a peek behind the scenes and a look at all the various inspections that our Environmental Health Department covers.
https://www.mynethealth.org/services/environmental-health/environmental-health-overview/ (https://www.mynethealth.org/services/environmental-health/environmental-health-overview/)
EnvironmentalHealth@netphd.org (mailto:EnvironmentalHealth@netphd.org)
EH # - (903) 535 - 0037
CastingtheNET@netphd.org
8 Mar 2024
Casting the NET - An Introduction
Join us as we dive into the world of public health in East Texas.
MyNETHealth.org
Inquiries: CastingtheNET@netphd.org
29 Feb 2024
Casting the NET - Trailer
The Northeast Texas Public Health District has an official Podcast! Coming soon.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 14 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
4
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
60
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