Roses & Weeds

It's been 15 years since Liberty Hall reopened its doors following a major renovation, and there's plenty to celebrate!

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, host Adriana Rodriguez sits down with Downtown Arts and Culture Supervisor Haleigh Franck to look back at the theater's history, its return to bringing entertainment to Downtown Tyler and share what makes Liberty Hall such a special part of our community today.

Plus, they pull back the curtain on one of the theater's most mysterious stories: Lady Liberty, the ghost rumored to haunt the historic building!

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

There is a lot to unpack in the City of Tyler’s 2026-2027 budget, from changes residents see on their tax and utility bills to decisions about how the City pays for major equipment, infrastructure, and everyday services.

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, hosts Julie Goodgame and Deputy City Manager Stephanie Franklin sit down with City Manager Edward Broussard and Assistant City Manager Keidric Trimble to talk through some of the biggest questions surrounding this year’s budget. They discuss what is driving the property tax increase, what is changing on utility bills, why the City is considering taking on debt for the first time, and how different sources of City revenue can and cannot be used.

The conversation also looks at what happens behind the scenes before residents are asked to pay more, including efforts to bring work in-house, use technology, review contracts, and find other ways to save money while maintaining City services and planning for future needs.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

3 judges and a festival director take over the podcast studio to dish on all things Tyler Film Fest! Don’t miss hearing from Festival Director Craig O'Daniel and judges Becca Hale, Trevor Hicks, and Derrick Simiyu about the short films hitting the Liberty Hall screen Sept. 18 and 19 and what makes this year’s festival lineup worth seeing.

They also share a little about the judging process, the variety of stories featured this year, and what audiences can expect from the 2026 Tyler Film Fest.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

District 6 gets the mic! In the latest episode of Roses & Weeds, Sage Sowels and Payton Weidman sit down with Councilmember Carleen Dark-Bays to get to know Tyler’s newest representative for District 6. They talk about her Tyler roots, family, community involvement, what led her to serve on City Council, and the goals she’s bringing into her new role. Then, Carleen takes on a “rapid-fire” round with questions about everything from her favorite Tyler restaurants to what she can’t leave home without, and the best advice she’s ever received.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

Mayor Stuart Hene enters the chat! In this episode of Roses & Weeds, hosts Adriana Rodriguez and Sage Sowels sit down with Tyler’s new Mayor to learn more about his background, his vision for the City’s future, and what he hopes to accomplish during his term. Then, they put Mayor Hene in the hot seat for a rapid-fire round covering everything from morning routines and childhood memories to theme songs, quirks, and bucket-list dreams.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

Spring is right around the corner, and Tyler is getting ready to bloom. In this episode, hosts Sage Sowels and Payton Weidman talk with Arborist Luke Alfaro and Horticulturist Jana Pirtle about Tyler’s urban landscape, what’s happening at the Tyler Rose Garden, and a few simple tips to help your own garden thrive.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

When winter weather threatens East Texas, preparation starts long before the first freeze.

In this episode, we sit down with leaders from the City of Tyler’s Streets and Fire Departments to talk through how crews prepare for cold conditions, respond in real time, and keep residents safe when temperatures drop. From road treatment and emergency response to behind-the-scenes coordination, they share what it takes to keep Tyler moving during winter weather events.

You’ll also hear practical tips for the community, including how to prepare your home, protect your pipes, care for your pets, and stay informed as conditions change.

Whether you’re curious about how the City prepares or looking for simple ways to get ready yourself, this episode offers a clear look at winter weather readiness in Tyler.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

Utility bills can be confusing (and frustrating), and we know many customers have questions about what they’re seeing and why changes are happening. In this milestone 100th episode of Roses & Weeds, hosts Payton Weidman and Adriana Rodriguez, along with guest Chris Cambra from the Water Business Office, walk through upcoming updates to Tyler’s utility billing and customer tools, including a redesigned utility bill and a new payment provider. The conversation focuses on clarity and transparency, explains what’s changing, when customers can expect to see those updates, and helps listeners understand the updates, why they matter, and how these updates are designed to better serve customers.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

Downtown Tyler is buzzing with change! In the latest Roses & Weeds episode, host Sage Sowels and guests Amber Varona, Lindsey Froneberger, and Haleigh Franck with the Main Street team share what’s taking shape through the Downtown Improvement Project, the stories behind local favorites like Liberty Hall, and how the City is keeping Tyler’s charm while building its future.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, host Sage Sowels sits down with Craig O’Daniel, the Director of the Tyler Film Festival, and judges Shadai Perez and Becca Hale to discuss everything related to the festival. Scheduled for September 12 & 13, the event promises to be an incredible celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community.

This week's episode was recorded in a unique location: Shadai's Downtown Tyler studio, Lightbox Collective, instead of our usual podcast studio. This setting adds an extra creative spark to the conversation.

Grab your tickets now at TylerFilmFest.com! Attendees will not only enjoy an amazing lineup of films but will also receive free beer courtesy of True Vine Brewing Company, delicious catering from Heritage ETX, and free popcorn throughout the festival.

Don’t miss your chance to experience one of Tyler’s premier cultural events. See you at the movies!

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode, hosts Sage Sowels and Adriana Rodriguez sit down with Tyler Area Business Education Council Executive Director LaToya Young and City of Tyler Parks Director Leanne Robinette to discuss the upcoming 12th Annual #SchoolisCool event! It's a free, family-friendly back-to-school celebration happening Aug. 7 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Rose Garden and W.T. Brookshire Conference Center.

LaToya and Leanne share what makes this event a staple in the community. From free backpacks filled with school supplies to haircuts, vaccinations, and eye exams, all are at no cost to families! Parents can get vouchers on-site to pick up supplies (kids must be present), while kids can enjoy various games and booths packed with resources and fun.

Whether you're a parent, volunteer, or love seeing your community come together, this is one episode (and event) you don't want to miss!

In this episode, we talk about:
Tyler Tomorrow - Our Comprehensive Plan

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, we sit down with Shonda Marsh, the newly elected City Council member representing District 3 in Tyler. Shonda shares her journey from a career in healthcare to serving her community at City Hall. She opens up about her family, the values that shaped her, and the mentors who inspired her to run for office. Join us as we get to know the person behind the title and hear her hopes for the future of District 3 and All of Tyler.

In this episode, we talk about:
A Partnership for Mental Health

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode, we sit down with Mayor Warren, Assistant City Manager Heather Nick, and David Jones from Freese and Nichols to discuss the City of Tyler's new Comprehensive Plan. This strategic roadmap is designed to guide Tyler’s growth over the next 20 years, updating the original Tyler 1st Comprehensive Plan from 2007. Listen now to hear how we're creating a shared vision for Tyler that supports smart growth and embraces new opportunities.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this special episode, we sat down with Mayor Don Warren and City Manager Ed Broussard for a candid conversation about Mayor Warren’s time in office. They discuss the projects that will drive the continued growth in Tyler, the partnerships that helped move the City forward, and the foundational work laid for the next mayor and all of Tyler.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, we highlight a critical but often overlooked part of city planning and public safety: stormwater, drainage and erosion control. These systems play a vital role in protecting homes, roads and the environment — yet they often go unnoticed until problems arise.

City of Tyler Development Services Engineering Manager Darrel Kotzur and Stormwater Management and Environmental Compliance Engineer Paul Neuhaus join the conversation to explain how these systems work, why they matter and what the City is doing to address related challenges. From infrastructure protection and flood prevention to erosion management and environmental stewardship, they provide a comprehensive look at the City's ongoing efforts.

Tune in to learn how the City is managing stormwater — and why it matters to everyone in our community.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, hosts Payton Weidman and Sage Sowels sit down with Catherine Cromer, the statewide coordinator of TxDOT’s Adopt-a-Highway program, and Casey Williams, the Keep Tyler Beautiful Coordinator. Together, they explore the Adopt-a-Highway program's rich history and how Tyler played a key role in its origins.

As the program celebrates a major anniversary, our guests share exciting upcoming events and initiatives designed to honor its legacy and encourage community participation. Plus, we dive into the story of Keep Tyler Beautiful’s founding and its ongoing mission to keep our city’s roads and green spaces clean and inviting. Tune in for the discussion on how volunteerism, sustainability, and civic pride continue to shape our community!

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of Roses and Weeds, hosts Julie Goodgame and Adriana Rodriguez welcome Leroy Sparrow, Director of Solid Waste, and Casey Williams, Keep Tyler Beautiful Coordinator, to discuss the current state of recycling in Tyler following the devastating fire that destroyed the Rivers Recycling Center in Kilgore.

Leroy provides insights into the challenges faced by the city's recycling efforts in the wake of this crisis, while Casey highlights the available programs and initiatives aimed at helping Tyler residents continue their recycling practices. Together, they explore the importance of community engagement in sustainability and share tips for effective recycling. Tune in to learn how Tyler is adapting and how you can make a difference in your backyard!

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, hosts Adriana Rodriquez and Sage Sowels are joined by Todd Lestage and Joe Barboza, who oversee the City of Tyler's three historic cemeteries. Together, they uncover the rich history behind each site, share what it takes to maintain these resting places, and highlight the unique stories that make them special. Tune in for an enlightening conversation behind the scenes of the three City-owned cemeteries—it's an episode you won't want to miss!

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of Roses & Weeds, hosts Julie Goodgame and Adriana Rodríguez sit down with the City of Tyler's newest councilmember, Petra Hawkins. Petra shares her inspiring journey, from her nursing and real estate background to her strong family roots in the Tyler community. She discusses how her experiences have shaped her desire to give back and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Tune in to hear Petra's passion for public service and how she hopes to contribute to positive change at a larger scale in Tyler.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.

In this episode of the podcast, City Manager Ed Broussard, Deputy City Manager Stephanie Franklin, and Senior Management Analyst Blake Cathey join host Julie Goodgame to discuss the City of Tyler's Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget. Together, they delve into the intricacies of budget development, exploring the various factors considered during the process. The discussion also covers the City's priorities for the coming year and how these changes will impact Tylerites. Listeners will gain insights on how the budget is used to enhance the City's quality of life.

Roses & Weeds is hosted by the City of Tyler's Communication Department. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future show topics, please reach out to us at PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com and be sure to use #RosesAndWeeds on all your questions to the City of Tyler on social media.