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The Hill Country Podcast

The Hill Country Podcast: Greg Faldyn: Leadership and Legacy in Rotary

Welcome to the award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this one of the most unique areas of Texas. In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Greg Faldyn, a seasoned insurance industry professional and a long-time Rotarian.

Greg, an insurance professional with over 40 years of experience and a dedicated Rotary Club member for nearly 25 years, views the 100th anniversary of Rotary in Kerrville as a landmark achievement in the organization’s enduring commitment to community service. Having played a pivotal role in organizing the celebration as the foundation chair, Greg has been instrumental in highlighting Rotary’s century-long partnerships with key local organizations, such as the Peterson Foundation and the Raphael Clinic. He proudly points to the Hill Country community’s collective resilience, particularly in the wake of events like the July 4th flood, as a testament to Rotary’s strength and impact. Passionate about engaging young professionals, Greg believes that the milestone anniversary serves not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a call to future service and community enhancement.

Highlights include:

  • Rotary’s Centennial Celebration in Kerrville’s Community
  • Community Support through Rotary Foundation Grants
  • Rotary Club Weekly Engagement
  • Why Join Rotary?

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

 Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts

Hill Country Authors Podcast

Hill Country Artists Podcast

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

Cover Art

Nancy Huffman

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – Celebrating 100 Years of Rotary in Kerrville

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich history of community service, leadership, and dedication. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference, both locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values that drive their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Greg Faldyn, a seasoned insurance industry professional and a long-time Rotarian.

Greg discusses his journey in the Rotary Club, from his 2002 introduction through his involvement over nearly 25 years. Now a member of the Kerrville Rotary Club, Greg highlights the club’s impactful community service, especially their response to local disasters and longstanding support of first responders. The conversation also delves into the upcoming 100th anniversary of Rotary in Kerrville, where Greg details his role as the foundation chair and the numerous projects they have undertaken. Key initiatives include the Heritage Center and flagpoles at the new first responder building. The episode underscores Rotary’s dedication to community service and provides a compelling case for why younger professionals should join this storied organization.

Highlights include:

  • Celebrating 100 Years of Rotary in Kerrville
  • Community Response to the July 4th Flood
  • The Centennial Celebration and Future Plans
  • The Role of the Rotary Foundation
  • Upcoming 100th Anniversary Luncheon
  • Why Join Rotary?

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – Navigating Professional and Community Service with Clint Morse

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Rotary Club Program Chair Clint Morse about his professional career and longstanding involvement with the Rotary Club.

Clint shares his journey from attending the University of Texas Law School and joining the Navy’s JAG program during the Vietnam War to practicing labor law at prestigious law firms such as Andrews Kurth and Ogletree Deakins. Clint also discusses his move to Kerrville, Texas, in 2015 and his impactful work with the local Rotary Club, including his role as program chair and his efforts to bring diverse speakers to the club. Clint emphasizes the importance of community service over business networking in Rotary and reflects on some meaningful projects, including basketball tournaments and Salvation Army fundraising. He also discusses the balance required in inviting speakers and maintaining non-political stances within the Rotary Club. The conversation concludes with Clint sharing what Rotary means to him, highlighting the community service opportunities and the lasting friendships formed.

Highlights include:

  • Clint Morse’s Professional Journey
  • Joining Rotary: Challenges and Triumphs
  • The Role of a Speaker Chairman
  • The Personal Impact of Rotary

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Categories
Kerrville Weekly News Roundup

Kerrville Weekly News Roundup: March 8, 2025

Welcome to the Kerrville Weekly News Roundup. Each week, veteran podcaster Tom Fox and his colleagues Andrew Gay and Gilbert Paiz get together to go over a couple of their favorite stories from the past week from Kerrville and the greater Hill Country. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee and listen in to get a wrap up of the Kerrville Weekly News. We each consider two of our favorite stories and talk about the upcoming weekend’s events which will enjoy or participate in this weekend.

In this episode, Tom takes a solo turn to take a look at some of the stories which caught their attention over the past week.

Stories Include

  • Bi-County 391 Commission goes live
  • Kerrville Economic Summit provides growth report
  • KDT Publisher John Wells speaks to Kerrville Rotary Club
  • KPUB continues work towards power plant
  • A wild and windy day in the Hill Coutry

Resources

Tom Fox on LinkedIn

Gilbert Paiz on LinkedIn

Andrew Gay on LinkedIn

Texas Hill Country Podcast Network

The Lead

Kerrville Daily Times

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – Rotary Club of Kerrville’s Impact with George Eychner

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” Host Tom Fox speaks with former Club President George Eychner in this episode.

George reflects on his Rotary journey, which began in 1989 after retiring from the Air Force and transitioning to a role as Executive Director of the Mount Wesley Conference Center. He shares how joining Rotary helped him get acquainted with the local community, foster personal relationships, and engage with city leaders. George details significant changes in the club over the years, such as the admission of women, evolving meeting formats, and notable initiatives like the First Responders’ luncheon and downtown Christmas decorations. He also provides insights into social and civic groups’ challenges post-COVID and emphasizes the importance of network building for young professionals. Closing on a reflective note, George discusses his role as the club’s songmaster and his thoughts on the future direction of Rotary.

Highlights include:

  • Rotary Club of Kerrville in 1989
  • Leadership and Involvement in Rotary
  • Notable Contributions and Events
  • The Importance of Community and Networking
  • Becoming the Song Master

Resources

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – Building Community Relationships through Rotary: A Conversation with Ashley Phillips

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that spotlights the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich history of community service, leadership, and dedication. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Ashley Phillips about finding a home in the Rotary Club of Kerrville after moving from east Texas.

In this episode, Tom hosts Ashley Phillips, who shares her inspiring journey from graduating with a Business Management and Marketing degree to becoming a community outreach specialist and active Rotary member. Ashley elaborates on her various career transitions, emphasizing the pivotal role of relationships and community engagement in her professional growth. From environmental code enforcement in deep East Texas to spearheading nonprofit efforts and finally finding her niche in Rotary, Ashley’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and relentless community service. Listen as she discusses Rotary’s invaluable network and support, bridging generations and professions, and the impactful projects and initiatives that foster personal and community growth.

Highlights include:

  • Transition to Private Sector and Rotary Involvement
  • Moving to Kerrville and Rotary Impact
  • Rotary’s Role in Relationship Building
  • Encouraging Young Professionals to Join Rotary

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – Jeff Wendling on Stewardship and Leadership

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Jeff Wendling, immediate past president of the Kerrville Rotary Club, to discuss his journey and experiences within the organization.

Jeff shares his initial involvement with Rotary in 2008, his leadership roles, and his perspectives on stewardship in organizational settings. He highlights the club’s numerous community-focused events, including the First Responders Award Luncheon and Blue Santa. Jeff also touches on significant initiatives such as fundraising for polio vaccines, youth engagement programs, and upcoming plans for the club’s 100th anniversary in 2026. This episode offers valuable insights into the impact of community service and leadership in fostering local and global change.

Highlights include:

  • Getting Involved with Rotary
  • Leadership Journey in Rotary
  • Role as President and Stewardship
  • First Responders Luncheon and Community Impact
  • 100th Year Anniversary Plans
  • Community Partnerships and Networking

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – Judy Eychner’s Rotary Journey: Community Contributions

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Judy Eychner, who shares her experiences and journey with the Rotary Club. This is the first of a two-part husband and wife series, as Judy’s husband, George Eychner, will join us for our next episode.

Judy’s Rotary journey started with her invitation to join by Sherry Cunningham in the early 2000s. Judy reflects on her professional background in real estate and her initial attraction to Rotary due to its inclusivity and the values it stands for. She elaborates on her involvement in various Rotary initiatives, such as the ”Josh the Otter’ water safety program, highway cleanup, and fundraising events like ”Pints for Polio.” Judy highlights key aspects like friendships, community work, and the role of women in Rotary, which have significantly enriched her professional and personal life.

We discuss Rotary’s impact on fostering community bonds and providing networking opportunities. Judy discusses her public service in Kerrville, emphasizing how civic life and Rotary involvement complement each other. This episode provides valuable insights for young professional women considering joining Rotary, emphasizing the dual benefits of community service and personal growth.

Highlights include:

  • Judy’s Rotary Journey Begins
  • Highlights of Judy’s Rotary Experience
  • Josh, the Otter Program
  • Swimming Lessons and Community Impact
  • Advice for Young Professionals

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – The Impact of Community Involvement: Marta Diffen’s Rotary Experience

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that spotlights the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with rich history of community service, leadership, and dedication. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Marta Diffen to discuss her journey with the Rotary Club in Kerrville.

Marta shares how she initially got involved and her subsequent rise to the board and presidency. She highlights the Rotary Club’s critical role in community service projects, such as supporting local robotics initiatives, organizing district-wide service days, and awarding college scholarships. Marta also emphasizes the transformative power of collective action and the Rotary’s focus on inclusivity and adaptability to attract younger members. Finally, she discusses her ongoing role to aid incoming leadership and ways for interested individuals to get involved.

Highlights include:

  • Joining the Rotary Club
  • Early Involvement and Leadership
  • Impactful Projects and Initiatives
  • Encouraging Youth Participation
  • How to Get Involved

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Categories
Rotary Voices of Kerrville

Rotary Voices of Kerrville – From Kerrville to Kigali: Kenneth O’Neal’s Rotary Experience

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Kenneth O’Neal about his extensive journey with Rotary since joining in 1998.

Kenneth discusses his early experiences with the Rotary Club in Kerrville, Texas, where he was deeply involved in organizing programs and securing notable speakers, including a corporate governance expert and a renowned barbecue author. Highlighting his leadership roles, Kenneth talks about his tenure as president of the Morning Rotary and the significant projects undertaken, including international service work. He also emphasizes the value of relationships, community involvement, and leadership skills developed through Rotary, underscoring its global reputation for dedicated service and impact.

Highlights include:

  • Kenneth’s Rotary Journey Begins
  • Organizing Programs and Memorable Speakers
  • International Rotary Experiences
  • Roles and Responsibilities in Rotary
  • Encouraging Young Professionals to Join Rotary
  • The Impact and Legacy of Rotary

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International