How do you turn a creative passion into a sustainable business? In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Salter of Salter Pottery to explore his journey from college student to full-time ceramicist and studio owner. Stephen shares how a chance introduction to pottery sparked an unexpected career, the lessons he learned through apprenticeships and mentorships, and the realities of building a business as a craftsman. From his early days selling too soon to finding his stride in the Oak Cliff creative community, we dive into the challenges of scaling handmade work, the balance between artistry and entrepreneurship, and how persistence (and a lot of clay) helped him carve out his place in the Dallas pottery scene.

Paul Torres, the visionary behind Sobremesa Studios, joins us today to talk through his creative evolution. Born in Monterrey, Mexico, and raised in Plano, Texas, Paul reflects on how his experiences shaped his unique approach to branding. Discover how the Oak Cliff community became a catalyst for his work, why sobremesa moments inspire his storytelling, and how he helps small businesses tell authentic stories that resonate. From strategy to creativity, this conversation dives deep into the power of connection and community in building meaningful brands.

In this episode, we sit down with Collin Martin, the founder of Bingo Markets, and explore his unique approach to the vending machine industry which emphasizes local, curated snacks and a vibrant design ethos. Collin shares his journey from living in Oak Cliff to creating a business rooted in community, quality, and creativity. Discover the entrepreneurial story behind Bingo Markets, how Collin's eye for design and love for local brands shaped the company's identity, and the challenges of innovating in a traditional industry.

Merry Christmas from The Hidden City Podcast! In this special bonus episode, we journey into the heart of Oak Cliff's coffee scene with Shannon Neffendorf, the founder of Oak Cliff Coffee Roasters. Shannon shares his incredible story of how a childhood memory of drinking coffee with his grandfather and a love for Italian coffee culture inspired him to create a coffee business rooted in quality and community. We also dive into Shannon's ventures into bread, chocolate, and his vision for sustainable, community-driven food production.

In Episode 14, we sit down with artist, designer, and visionary Gary Buckner, founder of Stash Design. Known for transforming reclaimed materials into functional art, Gary has left his mark on iconic Oak Cliff spaces like Wild Detectives, Davis Street Espresso, and Tyler Station.

We discuss his unique approach to design, his passion for preserving history through sustainable craftsmanship, and his vision for the future of architecture and wellness-focused spaces. Join us for a conversation about creativity, community, and how intentional design can shape the places we live, work, and gather.

In episode 9, we welcome chef and owner Skye McDaniel of La Bodega in Oak Cliff’s Bishop Arts. Skye shares the journey of building a food-centric community space, inspired by her Sicilian family roots, love for travel, and commitment to ethical food sourcing. From hosting beloved “Sunday Suppers” to creating a space where intentionality meets hospitality, Skye dives into the challenges and rewards of sticking to her values in an industry driven by convenience. Join us for a deep look into how she’s built La Bodega as a neighborhood haven, fostering connections over every meal.