Welcome to Getting Neighborly -- The Official Community Podcast for The Town of Fairview...Hosted by The Fairview Economic Development Corporation. On every episode we spend time getting to know our neighbors and hearing the stories that make our town a community.
In this episode, Dave welcomes Laura Johnson, Executive Director of the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center in Lucas, TX. With her unique background in animal behavior, business, and conservation, Laura walks us through the vital work her organization does rehabilitating injured raptors—birds of prey like hawks, owls, and eagles—while also shedding light on the efforts to protect the endangered Blackland Prairie ecosystem right in our backyard.
From the surprising costs of bird rehabilitation to the essential role raptors play in keeping our communities healthy, Laura shares how passionate staff and hundreds of volunteers work tirelessly to support wildlife. Plus, we'll learn practical ways residents can get involved, from building pocket prairies to volunteering, and hear inspiring stories about connecting kids and adults alike to nature. Whether you're a longtime resident or just discovering the unique neighborly spirit of our area, this episode will open your eyes to the wild side of North Texas—and why it's worth protecting.
To find out more, visit: https://bpraptorcenter.org/
Key Topics Discussed:
Laura Johnson's professional and educational background, blending animal behavior science and business
The mission and operations of the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center
The endangered status and ecological importance of the Blackland Prairie
Key features and roles of raptors in the ecosystem
Processes and challenges of raptor rehabilitation, including patient intake and care
Community involvement: volunteer programs, public education, and events
Practical ways for residents to support wildlife, such as pocket prairies and owl boxes
The significant financial costs of rehabilitating raptors
The importance of teaching children and connecting urban communities to nature
Plans for the Raptor Center's future, including expanded community engagement
1 May 2026
Carrie Campbell, Mane Mentors
"Super" Dave welcomes Carrie Campbell, founder of Mane Mentors, to share her story about transitioning from a corporate insurance career in Los Angeles to starting a purpose-driven equine mentorship program in Fairview, Texas. Carrie Campbell explains how the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a major life change for her and her husband, leading them to relocate to North Texas, embrace small-town living, and follow her lifelong passion for horses.
Now serving the adult disability community, Carrie Campbell blends horsemanship, holistic biomechanics, and mindset practices to help neurodiverse individuals reconnect with their bodies and build confidence, all set within a serene and supportive barn environment. They discuss the unique aspects of running a business in Fairview, including the welcoming, collaborative nature of the community, and the inclusive spirit that supports newcomers and small businesses alike. Carrie Campbell describes both the challenges and rewards of launching a business rooted in heart and personal passion, emphasizing the importance of continually reaffirming one's purpose. The conversation highlights the value of showing up, making connections, and the impact that mentorship and animal-assisted experiences can have on people of all ages and abilities.
To find out more about Mane Mentors, visit: https://www.manementors.com/
15 Apr 2026
Meg Latham, Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
"Super" Dave welcomes Meg Latham, Director of Stewardship at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. Meg shares what it was like growing up on the sanctuary after her father, Dr. Harold Laughlin, became the museum's first director, hired by founder Miss Bessie Heard, who created the preserve to protect a piece of Collin County and educate children as development spread. They discuss the Heard's mission, 289-acre sanctuary, trails, seasonal wildlife viewing, and popular features like the animatronic dinosaur trail.
Meg explains stewardship work, including community relationships, fundraising, and corporate volunteer projects, plus education programs, field trips, citizen science, and research partnerships, including bird banding and FrogWatch.
To learn more about the museum, visit: https://www.heardmuseum.org/
Key Topics Discussed:
Growing up at the Heard Museum
How Meg's Family Arrived
Meg's Career Path
Stewardship Role Explained
Nature Lessons and Conservatory
Why the Heard Is More Than Just Family Fun
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
18,042
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
4.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 45 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
48
Social presence
0
YouTube
72
Engagement
32
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