Tracy "TJ" Hefti
Co-Host of the Coffee Talk Podcast & Event Manager at Annenberg Presidential Conference Center
Tracy ‘TJ’ Hefti is originally from Houston, Texas, and joined the APCC in 2018. She has over 10 years of experience in various service industry roles and is excited to bring those skills to Texas A&M. TJ has her Certified Meeting Professionals (CMP) certification, as well as the Certified Professional in Management certification (AMA-CPM). In her free time she enjoys creating art, exploring and supporting local cuisines and spending time with her family.
Nov. 29, 2023
Espress Shot 30 with Cory Arcak
Cory Arcak served as Director of the MSC L.T. Jordan Institute for International Awareness at Texas A&M and as an Associate Director with the MSC Student Programs Office. With a background in anthropology, the arts, and education, she served the Texas A&M campus and surrounding community by providi…
Nov. 10, 2023
Espresso Shot 29 with Joe Recio
Today we welcome Joe Recio. He is originally from Houston, Texas, graduated in 2009 with a BA in Sociology from Sam Houston State. Originally, he had planned to go into teaching at the junior college level, but after grad school didn't well (oops!), I went through a winding road of jobs inside and …
Nov. 1, 2023
Expresso Shot 28 with Clay Bryan
Clay Bryan grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. He has no relation to Bryan, Texas; has definitely checked. Proud husband and father. He joined the Air Force in 2005, spent 7+ year’s in Washington D.C. working for the Intelligence Community in varies capacities. In 2013 he moved to San Angelo, TX wh…
Oct. 27, 2023
6.3 Troubadour Festival: Music Festival Management Done Right
Troubadour Festival is owned and produced by Double Tap Entertainment, LLC. Double Tap Entertainment is a boutique live entertainment company owned by East Texas natives Cody Johnson and Chase Colston, lifelong friends who have known each other since we were 5 years old. Chase created Red Dirt BBQ …
Oct. 17, 2023
6.2 Dr. Ashley has a vision...
We are joined today by Dr. Frank B. Ashley III, Interim Dean of the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University.
With the announcement of Dr. Ashley retiring, we thought we’d take the opportunity to do a farewell episode…..Turns out the University has bigger plans …
Sept. 27, 2023
Espresso Shot 26 with Ashley Winterrowd
Ashley is an Assistant Director of Career Programming in Graduate Career Services at The Bush School. She is passionate about helping students develop and achieve their personal, educational, and professional goals through training and conversations. Outside of work, Ashley loves to read and always…
May 5, 2023
Espresso Shot 24 with Crystal Riles
Crystal Riles is the Director of Community & Culture at the Bush School of Government & Public Service. She earned her B.A. in English from Texas A&M University, followed by her M.S. in Nonprofit Management from Our Lady of the Lake University. Crystal’s current responsibilities span advising colle…
April 19, 2023
Espresso Shot 23 with Dwight Roblyer
Dr. Dwight Roblyer ‘84 is a senior lecturer in the Department of Political Science and has taught over 17,000 young Aggies since 2013, working for their success here at TAMU and in their future professions and communities. He served for 26 years as a US Air Force officer in various assignments incl…
April 12, 2023
Espresso Shot 22 with Julia Lawrence
Julia Lawrence (she/hers) came to the Bush School in 2016, she currently serves as the Administrative Coordinator II for the International Affairs department at the Bush School. From coordinating events to approving degree plans, Julia works with the faculty and students of the International Affair…
April 5, 2023
"You can't second guess how to live your life" - Dr. Ashley's Farewell
It is with great sadness that you join Sarah and TJ today, as they chat with Dr. Frank Ashley for the last time as Associate Dean of the Bush School. We're not saying it's the last last time he will ever be on...just under that title.
March 29, 2023
Espresso Shot 21 with Kassandra Maduzia
Kassandra is a two time Ag, and one of those times happened to be at the Bush School. She loved the school so much she ended up getting a job there. When not working (or bringing her dog to spread some joy), you can find her on the local theatre circuit...and that's about it. She doesn't really lea…
Nov. 16, 2022
5.4 Cafe Capri
Today Sarah & TJ sit down with the wonderful Bryan native and owner of Caffe Capri, Rami Cerone. What do you think the Bush's favorite dish was?
Oct. 19, 2022
5.3 D'vine Cuisine
On site with Kantessa co-owner of D'vine Cuisine to chat with her about the venue, off site catering, and all things involved in the business offerings. Join Sarah & TJ to get the low down on this fabulous venue & wonderful food.
Oct. 12, 2022
Onomatopoeia... 25th Anniversary
Please join Sarah & TJ as they recap the 25th Anniversary of the Bush School of Government and Public Service events with Executive Associate Dean, singer, voice actor, and food connoisseur, Dr. Frank Ashley. Stay tuned for bonus laughs, you won't regret it.
Sept. 12, 2022
Where Are They Now? - Dionna
Dionna was a marketing intern here at The Annenberg Presidential Conference Center. She graduated with a degree in Telecommunication Media Studies and earned a Certificate in Strategic Communication. Dionna is from Dallas, Texas. She was the first employee to keep a 2 year secret from us…how’s your…
Sept. 5, 2022
Espresso Shot 20 with Angela Seaworth
Angela Seaworth holds a Ph.D. in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy where she researched nonprofit governance and leadership, was a Graduate Fellow at the Tobias Center for Lea...
Aug. 31, 2022
5.1 Minimum Shenanigans… Today
Sarah & TJ overview their on-site venue visits in Episode 1 of SEASON 5! Join them for lots of season 5 trip shenanigans... Why are they allowed in public?
Aug. 29, 2022
Espresso Shot 19 with Wendi Kaspar
Wendi Arant Kaspar is a Professor in International Affairs at Texas A&M University. She has a MLS from the University of Washington and a MS in Management from Texas A&M University. She teaches information-intensive and resea...
Aug. 22, 2022
Where Are They Now? - Danielle
Danielle was an Event Assistant here at The Annenberg Presidential Conference Center. She graduated with a degree in Economics. She was born and raised in South Africa, but attended High School in Katy, TX. If you need a personal shopper, she is the “thriftiest” shopper we know!
Aug. 16, 2022
Where Are They Now? - Hope
Hope was a marketing intern here at The Annenberg Presidential Conference Center. She graduated with a degree in University Studies. Hope was born and grew up in Plano, Texas. She is a free spirit and the best damn “coffee runner!”
July 20, 2022
Summer Series - Reserve At Cottonwood Creek
Today, Sarah & TJ chat with Rosa V, owner of the gorgeous Reserve at Cottonwood Creek venue. Sitting on around 9 acres, they tour the grounds, venues, and vineyard and get the scoop on all the great events hosted and to be hosted!
July 18, 2022
Espresso Shot 18 with Nicole Collier
The research shows that you should join TJ & Sarah today as they round out chatting with the FINAL full-time staff member of the Center for Non Profit & Philanthropy... Nicole Collier!! Diagrams, graphs, chickens, and Bush School antics... join for all the fun!
July 13, 2022
Summer Series - Downtown 202
Whitney, owner of Downtown 202, chat with TJ & Sarah about the lovely event venue. From student org events to weddings to meetings this space can accommodate any event (within capacity of course)!
July 11, 2022
Espresso Shot 17 with Andrew Morriss
What do squirrels, Continental airline, the Bush School and a lawyer have in common? Professor Andrew Morriss! Come join TJ & Sarah as they adventure down the career path of Professor Morriss, from lawyer to Bush School professor and all the mosquitoes in between.
July 6, 2022
KinderHill Brew Lab - "Don't Kill The Plants"
Laura & Jason give Sarah & TJ the scoop on the amazing KinderHill Brew Lab; venue, catering, custom brews, dog birthday parties, music bingo and what's the deal with the plants?
July 5, 2022
Espresso Shot 16 with Tamara Hitt & Catherine Vinson
Academic Advisors, Tamara Hitt & Catherine Vinson join Sarah & TJ to chat about the work they do contributing to the Office of Extended Education's growing student pool!
June 29, 2022
Sale Depot - "We interrupt your scheduled podcast for a train update...No quiet zone yet."
Chatting with Abi & Mo with Destination Bryan about renting the Sale Depot in Downtown Bryan. Join Sarah & TJ for catering, trains, cost, and Wi-Fi!
June 27, 2022
Espresso Shot 15 with Brandon Dealmeida
Bush School IT student technician, Brandon, schools Sarah & TJ on how printers actually work, how his tech journey began, and where he plans on going with it! The Bush School family really does have the best student workers.
June 20, 2022
Espresso Shot 14 with the Parkers
The first couple to be interviewed on Espresso Shots, Denise & Jerry Parker! Learn about their amazing past and current works, and their obvious love of helping others.
June 13, 2022
Espresso Shot 13 with Lisa Brown
Sarah & TJ chat with Lisa Brown today, DOCTOR Lisa Brown, Director of the Office of Extended Education. Join them as Dr. Brown explains her role, passion, and joys of working at the Bush School.
May 31, 2022
Espresso Shot 11 with Kelley Robbins
Help Sarah & TJ welcome their dear friend, colleague, and client Kelley Robbins; the Bush School's very own Unofficial Interim Assistant Dean of Tacos. Today Kelley takes them on the fabulous journey of her past up to today, her love of the Bush School, and who her favorite person is at work.
May 23, 2022
Espresso Shot 10 with Steven Sisk
Take 2! Today, Sarah & TJ chat with the PCC's very own Event Manager, Steven Sisk! They will get the run down of past & current work, future goals, and of course how much he enjoys his coworkers!
May 17, 2022
4.7 - Saying Goodbye is the Hardest Part (To People, Not the Podcast)
Today Coffee Talk hosts, Sarah & TJ, are interviewed by the APCC's 5 student workers/intern/basically family. Join them as Sofia, Ruth Ann, Jimmy, (other) Sarah, and Megan ask the questions, hear the tales of past, present, and future, as well as the sage wisdom learned throughout their old, long l…
May 16, 2022
Espresso Shot 9 with Leslie Ruyle
Join TJ & Sarah as they fan girl over Dr. Leslie Ruyle's amazing work throughout the world (and laugh at TJ's inability to know acronyms or pronounce anything). Hang on tight as they are schooled in Leslie's passion for her research, work, and connection to students.
May 9, 2022
Espresso Shot 8 with Matt Upton
Today, Sarah & TJ connect with Matt Upton, Assistant Dean of Diversity & Student Affairs at the Bush School. Hang out as they get a lesson in what exactly it means to be the Assistant Dean of Diversity & Student Affairs as well as the expansive web connecting current and former Bush School students…
May 2, 2022
Espresso Shot 7 with Will Watson
On this episode, Sarah & TJ chat with Bush School International Affairs student Will Watson as they find out what it's like in the life of a Bush School student, what the future holds, what stains, and who his favorite professor is!!
April 25, 2022
Espresso Shot 6 with Sofia Patino
Join TJ & Sarah as they chat with their lovely student employee #girlboss Sofia Patino. Laughs, stories, work & school life... join in on the fun and go read up on all of Sofia's great research!
April 20, 2022
4.6 - What Happens When You Interview Co-Workers...
Today, Sarah & TJ get to chat with one of their very own! Jamie Burns has an extensive background within the music industry as well as in events! She shares her experiences of online ticket sales, scalpers, and what's new post-COVID!
April 18, 2022
Espresso Shot 5 with Kenny Taylor
Dr. Kenny Taylor joins Espresso Shots today to tell Sarah & Tj all about the amazing things he has and is accomplishing within the Bush School. Please read up on his bio and listen on for laughs and lessons!
April 14, 2022
4.5 - "Well you've changed since college, so have we"
Today Sarah & TJ have the pleasure of hosting their new best friends, Abigail Noel and Morgan Key with Destination Bryan; Ready to get the break down of who they are, what they do, and what they're bringing to the area!?
April 4, 2022
Espresso Shot 4 with Brian Nakamura
Sit down with Sarah & TJ today as they chat with Brian Nakamura, a professor at the Bush School!
March 30, 2022
4.4 - "We don't always run into celebrities...but when we do, they're Aggie celebrities"
Today Sarah & TJ sit down with Morgan Meador the CSM of Cavalry Court & the George Hotels as she give them all of the event & venue offerings at BOTH hotels! Don't forget to stick around for the low down on her viral wedding experience!
March 28, 2022
Espresso Shot 3 with Megan Kokenes
Sit down with Sarah & TJ today as they chat with our student employee, Megan Kokenes as she shares all of her horror stories of working with them.
March 23, 2022
4.3 - "The Venue With the Best View in BCS"
On today's episode, Sarah & TJ are joined by Tawyna Moehlman from the Rec Center at TAMU College Station, TX to chat about the different facilities and capabilities of hosting a PLETHORA of different events. From dance practice to banquets, the Rec can do it all.
March 21, 2022
Espresso Shot 2 with Andrew Natsios
Today Sarah & Tj sit down with Professor, Director, Ambassador Andrew Natsios of the Scowcroft Institute. Hang on tight because they cover everything from past careers to current world affairs to future predictions.
March 8, 2022
Espresso Shot 1 with Dr. Will Brown
Join us as we pick the brain of Dr. Will Brown, Professor & Director of the Center of Non Profits & Philanthropy at the Bush School of Government & Public Service. We cover everything from who he really is to what the future might hold for the Center!
March 3, 2022
4.2 - "It was very neat."
On today's episode, Sarah & TJ discuss what venues are doing to rejuvenate old ideas and altogether new inclusion options we should be seeing more of! A few corrections, so no one yells at us: "Pivoting" is NOT a Covid Documentary on Netflix. Sarah's oldest child is 10, not 11. IACC is the Intern…
Feb. 9, 2022
4.1 - New Year, New Season, New Logo, New Topics
Sarah & TJ are back in action for our 4th season of Coffee Talk! Join them as they explore venues within the Bryan/College Station community. On Episode 1 of Season 4, TJ & Sarah recap the Catering & Vendor Showcase, updates at the APCC, and the future!
*Apologies for misspelling and probably m…
Nov. 19, 2021
3.7 - (Great) Event Planners Should Run The World
In today's ep. 7, we cover everything from Academic advising to Disney and events to tattoos as we welcome our new favorite person: Melyssa Anne. <3
Army brat, Tex-European, self-proclaimed Disney freak, Melyssa-Anne Stricklin wants you to become an independent thinker and learn who you are. As …
Nov. 8, 2021
3.6 - What does Facebook, Uber, LinkedIn and the Bush School have in common?
Today we chat with Program Manager of Events & Donor Relations: Brenden Chaney. Join us as he takes us on his journey of being in the private events sector to helping open the Bush School Teaching Site in the heart of DC! (Hang around to find out about his adventures jumping off things)
*Disclai…
Oct. 15, 2021
3.5 -Oklahoma…I’m a Turnpike Troubadours fan, are you?”
We found our new bestie. Today we interview Ashley Peacock, who was first met through an IAVM region 6 meeting, to find out about the mass amount of amazing things she has done and is doing! Work, family, leashed cats.. and much more!
Oct. 13, 2021
3.4 - Off the Rails with Rail & Rye
Join us for our FIRST onsite interview! Sorry for the glare!! Jessica Tucker, one of the owners of Rail & Rye, tells all in the journey of opening a rooftop bar during a pandemic, booking talent, drink menus, and so many tree branch stories!
Sept. 8, 2021
3.3 - Career Services...Mandatory or Optional?
Episode 3! Join us today in our lively conversation with special guest, Holly Kasperbauer as she divulges all of the Bush School's secrets! Can we get a vote on Holly bringing all of her puppers over to the PCC? Doggie daycare anyone?
Aug. 24, 2021
3.2 - The Road to DC
Episode 2! We interview Lieutenant General (retired) Jay Silveria; Executive Director of the Bush School D.C! We get the answers to all our questions from the future of the DC campus to favorite music styles. Join us in welcoming our new best friend in Washington D.C!
Aug. 9, 2021
Bonus episode! "It's A Highway to the Danger Zone"
Do you want to hear some more from TJ, Sarah, Dean Welsh, & Dr. Ashley? Here is a bonus clip from our latest recording of #coffee talk. They discuss a lot of random things and will keep you laughing for another 20 minutes! F...
Aug. 5, 2021
3.1: We're back! And we have guests!
Welcome to Ep 1, Sn 3 of #COFFEETALK! TJ & Sarah are joined by two very special, very funny guests with us to discuss everything! From their time at the Bush School of Government & Public Service to who is the better golfer.....
Aug. 4, 2021
Mini Series - "Where Are They Now?" - Korrigen
On episode 7 of “Where Are They Now?," we catch up with Korrigan Roman. Korrigan was an event intern at the APCC in the fall of 2016. She, alongside her fellow interns, assisted in planning and executing a variety of events hosted at the facility. Korrigan graduated from Texas A&M University in De…
June 28, 2021
Mini Series - "Where Are They Now?" - Josh
On today’s episode 6 of “Where Are They Now?” We are catching up with Josh Harms. Josh Harms worked in the PCC from 2012-13 as an AV Technician, during the dark times of Sarah’s departure. He went on to work in the Department of Performance Studies, and now works in the College of Liberal Arts Dean…
May 25, 2021
Mini Series: "Where Are They Now" - Maddie
On episode 5 of “Where Are They Now?,” We are catching up with Maddie Short. Maddie is a former student employee of the PCC, currently serves as the chief operating officer at Wilems Resource Group (WRG), a boutique consulting firm specializing in compliance and engagement for Medicare value-based …
May 17, 2021
Mini Series: "Where Are They Now" - Victor
On episode 4 of “Where Are They Now?” We are catching up with Victor Aguilar. Victor is a former Audiovisual Specialist of the PCC, currently residing in College Station, Texas. He is currently a Senior Video Network Specialist with Instructional Media Services over the Innovative Learning Classroo…
May 5, 2021
2.8: Life Advice - You need to hear what we have to say
On episode 8 of season 2, TJ & Sarah are joined by Andre Kilzer! Andrew founded Texas FilmWorks in 2016 after years of working in the Texas video & film production industry. Andrew loves many things, chief of which is artisanal bread making (seriously). He's working on developing Texas FilmWorks to…
April 28, 2021
2.7: Bush School Admissions & Recruitment, a behind the scenes look!
Our special guests today are Kathryn Meyer, Director of Admissions/Recruitment and Ashlee Treadway, Assistant Director of Admissions at the Bush School of Government & Public Service at Texas A&M University.
Kathryn has been with the Bush School for 19 years, handling much of the School’s recru…
April 21, 2021
Mini Series: "Where Are They Now" - Bryan
On today’s episode 3 of “Where Are They Now?” We are catching up with Bryan Williams. Bryan currently residing in Aurora, CO. He is currently the Senior Director at Encore Global and is also the bass player in "Built To Last." He previously worked at the Gaylord Texan & helped open the Gaylord Roc…
April 15, 2021
Mini Series "Where Are They Now?" - Tammie
On episode 2 of “Where Are They Now?” We are catching up with Tammie Vineyard, formerly Tammie Morton. Tammie is a former Assistant Manager of the PCC, currently residing in Meridian, Texas. She’s been married to Richie since 2014. They have a beautiful 6 month old baby girl named Maggie. Tammie …
April 14, 2021
2.6: In Person Events in the Brazos Valley: Review!!
Today we’ll be discussing events TJ and Sarah attended, specifically TJ will fill us in on the Chamber’s Crawfish Boil at the Brazos Center, Sarah will be discussing the MLS Houston Dynamo game that occurred at Ellis Field, a...
April 5, 2021
Mini Series: "Where Are They Now" - Erica
Welcome to the FIRST episode of Where are they now?! Coffee Talk edition! Today we catch up with Erica Cox, former student technician and keeper of hilarious Sarah stories! Help us welcome her...and convince her to move back!!
March 31, 2021
2.5: Zoom University!
Today is a very special episode of Coffee Talk. We have the honor of welcoming a student of the Texas A&M University & The Bush School of Government & Public Service, President of the Bush School SGA, and an overall spectacular human, Shekinah Kahongo. Please join us as we explore the overwhelming …
March 17, 2021
2.4: What's really going on? Local Edition.
Today welcome a guest as we run down our experience at the Meeting Planners Showcase 2021, new vendors we encountered, and not being sponsored by Dr. Pepper or not getting free mimosas. From reptile exhibits to picking flower...
March 3, 2021
2.3: Event updates, jazz hands & a surprise guest!
Today we update ya'll with reaction to the press release from TAMU football as well some information from SEC on CoVid protocols. We also venture into the music festival world with Chicago's Riot Fest that is still on the boo...
Feb. 23, 2021
2.2 University Updates & Investigative Journalism?
On Episode 2, find out what is happening with University events and listen to TJ & Sarah chat about virtual events, snacks, and who gets to decide what is "best" for "top" lists. SARAH & TJ CHAT ABOUT University event updates...
Feb. 3, 2021
2.1: Building status update, How the first two weeks of classes are going, Any stand outs? profs gone wild?, WPC Pros
SEASON 2 EPISODE 1 SUMMARY Episode 1 of Season 2 of Coffee Talk!! I was going to tell a joke, but my kid said it was dumb...so Happy Wednesday! Today we are giving updates on the APCC facility, how the first two weeks of clas...
Jan. 6, 2021
Season 2: Coming Soon!
Season 2 of Coffee Talk with Sarah & TJ is coming soon. Visit https://bush.tamu.edu/apcc/coffeetalk/ to watch or listen to Season 1 episodes!
Dec. 23, 2020
10: Jazz Hands! First VIRTUAL GUEST.
Today we review the year, the upcoming year, and have our FIRST Virtual guest!! Yay! Event terms have been compartmentalized... Virtual Experience is the new Virtual Event! Speaking of Virtual Experiences... Our expectations...
Dec. 9, 2020
9: Half the town doesn't even know what goes on here.
Welcome our guest, Rachael, who is a member of the Bush School Ambassador's Council! What is that you ask? What do they do? Who are they really? Ms. Rachael is here to answer all these questions!! Just kidding Take 2 after story corner... Scowcroft? Who's that? What are all these words? Everyone m…
Nov. 18, 2020
8: Event Design. Squirrel. Shiny stuff.
Let me start by apologizing for the hot mess express over here! *Insert cone of shame* - In today's episode we discuss EVENT DESIGN and what is going on with interactive museums and some out of the box thinking that we have c...
Nov. 3, 2020
7: "From Party Planning to TP" - MH: Coffee Talk Live! Halloween Edition
First 19 minutes - pre show 19:30 - Live show begins! Welcome to our first live show! Special guest Former Student/Lifetime Ag from Class of...we still don't know even after this episode. Todays topics include: How are clas...
Oct. 21, 2020
6. What's a squirrel got to do with events?
Welcome back! Today it’s all about sports! What are some of these major/national leagues doing?! We will discuss the “bubble” and what all it entails. Is this something we can do for large scale events? Does anyone else have ...
Oct. 14, 2020
5. I can't even with this catering.
It’s October.. So as we channel our inner creeper...Let’s play a game: Be on the lookout and count the #blondemoments.. and guess which words we are trying to vocalize! - “QUALITY OF LIFE” SARAH…geez - Today’s topics include ...
Oct. 5, 2020
4: Event Industry terminology - Face to Face, Hybrid, Virtual, Digital, Hub & Spoke
Confused about all the terminology being used in the Event Industry these days? ((Me too)). Today we are discussing, actually Sarah is educating, I, TJ, am just here to clarify amongst my confusing... "we" are discussing the ...
Sept. 10, 2020
3 Part 2: Hear a Professor's point of view on in-person and virtual teaching!
Welcome back my lovelies!! Special guest appearance part 2!!!! o.O We are ELATED to have this special guest join us today! Can you see it on our faces? We get the point of view on virtual teaching from a beloved Professor.. C...
Sept. 10, 2020
3 Part 1: How are things going from a student perspective? What does the future hold for graduates?
Welcome y'all! First guest appearance on our show today!!! We are super excited to welcome our wonderful Marketing Intern to our show. (She is AMAZING, no poaching. Free agent Spring 2021) How are things going from the stud...
Aug. 27, 2020
2: The First Week of Classes at the APCC, Catering, and Virtual Networking
Are y'all excited?! We are pretty excited (ignore the tremendous amounts of sighs, it’s cloaked excitement!) Today’s topics consist of surviving the first week of classes in the Annenberg, catering, virtual networking and muc...
Aug. 19, 2020
1: What is going on at the APCC, the CDC, and the Event’s Industry
Welcome to our first ever Coffee Talk. ((By first I mean the first uploaded, quite a few blooper reels)) I am Tj an Event’s Coordinator at the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center, joining me always is Sarah, the Director...