Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (April 20, 2026)

Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (April 20, 2026)

From Hello Houston: The Commuter Cut by Houston Public Media

April 20, 2026 · 47 min

About this episode

The episode features discussions on clean energy in Texas, changes in public school enrollment, and the work of a local non-profit focused on textile recycling.

In today's edition of "The Commuter Cut," we’re joined by freelance journalist Laura Mallonee , who talks about the changing outlook for clean energy in Texas, after recently reporting on the topic for the Texas Observer. Then, we discuss what’s behind the changes in public school enrollment across the Houston region and what this could mean for local districts with Courtney Thrash , a researcher for the Houston Education Research Consortium . Plus, we learn all about the Houston-based non-profit design house Magpies & Peacocks , with founder Sarah-Jayne Smith and vice president Ahshia Berry, who tell us all about their work recycling textiles and turning them into locally made, unique upcycled collections.

People in this episode

Guests: Laura Mallonee, Courtney Thrash, Sarah-Jayne Smith, Ahshia Berry

Topics covered

  • clean energy
  • public school enrollment
  • non-profit design
  • textile recycling

Keywords

  • Texas Observer
  • Houston Education Research Consortium
  • Magpies & Peacocks

Mentioned in this episode

Products: clean energy, textiles, upcycled collections

Books & works: The Commuter Cut

Places: Houston, Texas

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