The Bastrop Podcast

In this episode of The Bastrop Podcast, we sit down with Steve Hipe, founder of Hope Valley Tree Farm in Bastrop, Texas. For over 23 years, Steve and his family have cultivated more than just trees—they’ve built a space rooted in faith, community, and purpose. From numerous varieties of Texas trees to stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and what it really means to “love your neighbor,” Steve shares the heart behind his work an...

In this episode of The Bastrop Podcast, we sit down with Bastrop Mayor Candidate Ishmael Harris to explore his lifelong connection to Bastrop and his vision for its future. Ishmael shares stories of growing up in the tight-knit community, reflects on his experience with Austin Water, and discusses the critical infrastructure and development issues facing Bastrop today. From planning and zoning updates to his decision to run for may...

In this episode of The Bastrop Podcast, host Matt Walker sits down with Pastor Ronald Wilson at Anointed Hands Barbershop for a heartfelt conversation about faith, calling, and community. Ron opens up about receiving his first prophetic word as a teen, leading alongside his wife at Celebration Community Church, and helping unify local churches through the Bastrop Christian Ministerial Alliance.

You'll hear stories of fatherhood...

In this episode of The Bastrop Podcast, Matt Walker sits down with Adam Richerson, owner of House Call Mobile Mechanic, to talk about what it’s really like running a one-man auto repair business in Bastrop County, Texas. Adam shares how stepping into self-employment gave him the freedom to prioritize faith, family, and flexibility—and why he wishes he’d done it sooner. From diagnosing tricky engine issues to navigating entrepreneur...

Building Community and Cool Treats in Bastrop | Featuring Jack Plimpton of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice

In this episode, Matt Walker sits down with Jack Plimpton, co-owner of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, to talk about launching a new business in Bastrop, Texas — and how a simple road trip idea turned into a sweet new gathering spot for the community.

Jack shares what inspired him and his wife Allie to bring Jeremiah’s Italian Ice to town, how t...

Meet John Eason — a longtime Bastrop, Texas resident, business owner, and family man running for BISD school board. In this episode, he shares about his nonprofit background, his heart for the community, and his vision for the future of Bastrop ISD.

The episode is hosted by Matt Walker and edited/directed by Liana Walker, co-owners of Wisdom House Realty Group — a top-producing real estate team based in Bastrop with agents in Bastro...

Episode 2: John Kirkland – Bastrop Mayor Pro Tem
In this episode, we sit down with John Kirkland, Bastrop’s Mayor Pro Tem, for an open conversation about how local government works, how you can get involved, growth in Bastrop, reelections and what it’s really like raising a family in Bastrop. We also dive into a few of John’s unexpected hobbies and insights into the town he calls home.

Recorded live at Chestnut Grove Food Truck ...