Episodes

  • Mel Zarb-Cousin - Behind the Curtain: CEO, Magik, and Love Across Borders
    Mar 3 2026

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    In this episode, we sit down with Mel Zarb-Cousin, CEO of Magik Theatre, to talk about what it really means to lead a space built on imagination.

    Mel shares her journey from being involved in drama and performance to stepping into executive leadership at one of San Antonio’s most beloved cultural institutions. We go behind the curtain on what it takes to run a theatre, how storytelling shapes communities, and why the arts still matter deeply in today’s world.

    We also dive into a more personal chapter of her story, including navigating love and long distance, with her fiancé living in Cuba. It’s an honest conversation about passion, purpose, resilience, and building a life that blends art and leadership.

    If you care about creativity, community, and the human stories behind the spotlight, this one’s for you.

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    37 mins
  • Punchlines, Parenting, and Policies
    Jan 30 2026

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    Michelle Cantu is a San Antonio–based comedian and mother who turns real life chaos into sharp, laugh-out-loud comedy. From parenting moments to everyday observations we all recognize, her humor is honest, bold, and unapologetically relatable.

    In this episode, Michelle dives into how she finds comedy in the middle of the mess, what makes an audience lean in, and why telling the truth on stage hits harder than playing it safe. It’s a fast-moving, funny conversation about life, laughter, and using comedy to connect with people who feel seen the moment the joke lands.

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    45 mins
  • Year In Review 2025
    Jan 10 2026

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    2025 was a powerful first year for the Halfway Human podcast, reaching over 1,000 downloads in our debut season.

    We kicked things off with Episode One, featuring Rob Wicall, former San Antonio Spurs Coyote, sharing stories about performance, identity, and life behind the mascot.

    Episode Two welcomed Sandi Wolff, Vice President of Community Engagement at Hallmark University, discussing leadership, education, and community impact.

    Episode Three featured Philippe Place, owner of Southerleigh, exploring entrepreneurship, culture, and hospitality.

    Episode Four brought in Jody Newman, co-owner of The Friendly Spot, reflecting on building community through local spaces.

    Episode Five closed the year with Andrea Vocab Sanderson, Poet Laureate Emeritus of San Antonio, whose words and impromptu poetry reminded us of the healing power of voice and storytelling.

    From culture and leadership to art and community, 2025 set the foundation for what Halfway Human is all about real conversations, real people, and the stories that connect us.

    New Episodes soon! Email us at: halfwayhumanpodcast@gmail.com

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    19 mins
  • Words That Heal: Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson on Poetry, Power, and Survival
    Dec 16 2025

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    Today on Halfway Human, we sit down with San Antonio Poet Laureate Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson. A mentor, performer, and truth-teller, Vocab has spent decades using poetry to open doors for healing, expression, and connection. From classrooms and detention centers to national stages, her words carry both strength and compassion, and during our conversation she even shares a spontaneous, improvised poetry moment that captures the heart of her work.

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    44 mins
  • Spurs, Spirits & Southtown: The Friendly Story of Jody Newman
    Oct 29 2025

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    On this episode of Halfway Human, we sit down with Jody Newman, the Southtown powerhouse behind The Friendly Spot Ice House. What started as a neighborhood hangout has become a true San Antonio icon built on community, connection, and good vibes. Beyond the bar, Jody champions local entrepreneurs through Launch SA and fights to keep Southtown’s voice strong amid big-money development. Her story proves that business can be both personal and powerful. Grab a drink and tune in to meet the one and only Jody Newman.

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    46 mins
  • Beyond the Menu: The Story of Philippe Place
    Oct 9 2025

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    In this episode, we sit down with Philippe Place, the French-born restaurateur bringing his charm and flair to each of his San Antonio restaurants. Philippe shares his journey from France to Texas, the inspiration behind his work, and what it means to build community through food, culture, and creativity.

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    49 mins
  • The Wolff Perspective: Sandi Wolff Unplugged
    Sep 10 2025

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    In this episode of The Wolff Perspective, we sit down with Sandi Wolff for an authentic and fearless conversation. She opens up about her journey, shares insights on growth and resilience, and talks politics with a candid take on leadership, community, and the issues that matter most. Whether you are here for wisdom, motivation, or bold perspectives, this episode delivers honesty, heart, and a little wolf-like fearlessness.

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    41 mins
  • Behind the Fur: Rob Wicall Unmasked
    Sep 1 2025

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    Meet Rob Wicall, the former San Antonio Coyote. He pulled off the wild stunts, brought the energy to every game, and has the stories to prove it. From hilarious court-side moments to what really went on behind the mask, Rob takes us inside the life of an NBA mascot like you’ve never heard before

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    44 mins