Once A Cardinal is a podcast that brings Harlingen High School alumni together to share the real stories of life after HHS. Each episode is a conversation rooted in South Texas where we talk about the journeys, challenges, victories, and lessons that shaped who we became beyond the hallways, classrooms, and Friday night lights.
From business owners and educators to artists, pastors, veterans, and community leaders, our guests reflect on where they started, where life has taken them, and how their Cardinal roots continue to influence the way they show up today.
So grab a cafecito, get comfort
In this episode of Once A Cardinal, I sit down with David, Harlingen High School Class of 2003, to talk about his South Texas upbringing, the teachers who encouraged his creativity, and how his high school Media Technology class opened the door to filmmaking.
From homemade movies with friends in Harlingen to directing Texas Chainsaw Massacre, David Blue Garcia’s filmmaking journey began with curiosity, a camera, and a love for telling stories.
David shares the story behind his directorial debut, Tejano, and how friends, family, and hometown connections helped bring it to life. We also discuss his path to directing Texas Chainsaw Massacre, the challenges of pursuing a creative career, and what he still hopes to create.
It’s a conversation about finding your path, persevering, and carrying a piece of home into the stories you tell.
Subscribe to Once A Cardinal for more conversations with HHS alumni about life beyond the halls of Harlingen High School.
Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal.
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25 Sept 2026
Episode 21 | Gerry Gonzales
Gerry Gonzalez, Harlingen High class of 1980, spent his career behind the camera instead of in front of it. He started as a cameraman at KGBT while still in high school, then built a career in Los Angeles that took him to the Academy Awards, a decade shooting alongside John Quiñones on Primetime and What Would You Do?, and news assignments across the globe, from Cuba to Haiti to the Middle East.
In this episode, Gerry talks about growing up in the Valley, the father who couldn't understand his dream, the mentors who shaped him, and the moments that stuck with him from decades in the field. He also opens up about his most personal project yet: securing U.S. citizenship for his uncle Rudy, who was killed in Vietnam days before he was due home and never received the recognition he earned.
A story about chasing a dream nobody else could see, and the family history worth fighting to preserve.
12 Sept 2026
Episode 20 | Lisa Campos
Lisa Campos, Harlingen High School Class of 1990, turned her love for her hometown into Explore Harlingen, a social media community followed by more than 42,000 people.
In this episode, Lisa shares why she returned to Harlingen after building a 20-year career in Austin, Houston, and Dallas, and how becoming a mother to her daughter, Lola, helped bring her home. She also reveals the story behind Explore Harlingen and how she balances being a full-time corporate professional, a devoted mom, and the voice behind one of the city’s most influential platforms.
Some call her “the KRGV of Facebook.” Others call her “the TMZ of Harlingen.” Lisa simply calls herself “the accidental influencer.”
Join us for a heartfelt conversation about family, community, and celebrating the people and places that make Harlingen special.
Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal!
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