The 005

Natalie Crossley

The 005 is the podcast that celebrates the people, places, and stories that make West University Place, Texas such a special community!   Each episode takes you behind the scenes of our neighborhood — from local events and hidden gems to conversations with the community leaders, neighbors and business owners who live and work in West U. 

  1. Jun 26

    Episode 2: Inside the West U Police Department with Chief Gary Ratliff

    Natalie Crossley sits down with West U's Chief of Police Gary Ratliff to talk about what it really means for a community to have its own dedicated police department — and the people working behind the scenes to keep West U safe. Chief Ratliff brings nearly four decades of law enforcement experience to West U, having built his career in League City before stepping out of retirement to lead the department here. In this conversation, he reflects on the path that brought him to West U, what surprised him about policing a dense, two-square-mile city of roughly 15,000 residents, and why a place that feels like a small town can still be surprisingly fast-paced. Chief Ratliff also shares: How the Virtual Gate, West U’s geofenced license-plate camera system, actually works — and why it’s a tool, not a cure-allReal cases where that technology helped officers track suspects and recover stolen propertyPractical, easy-to-overlook steps every resident can take to protect their home and vehiclesHis advice for anyone buying a home in West U — including one tip most people never think to ask aboutWhere things stand on hot-button topics like e-bikes and golf cartsWhat’s ahead for the department, from a Teen Police Academy this summer to long-term staffing plansAlong the way, Natalie and Chief Ratliff talk about the programs that keep residents connected to their department — from the Citizens Police Academy and Coffee with Cops to West U Ready, DirectLink, and the weekly crime report — and the chief’s belief that a police department is only as strong as its relationship with the people it serves. Whether you’re a longtime resident, new to the neighborhood, or simply someone who cares about what makes West University Place, Texas feel safe and connected, this episode is a closer look at one of the things that makes this community special. Follow The 005 for more conversations with the people, organizations, and local leaders shaping life in West University Place and the surrounding areas.

    Episode 2: Inside the West U Police Department with Chief Gary Ratliff

  2. May 10

    Episode 1: Principal Disch & 100 Years of West U Elementary

    In the very first episode of The 005, Natalie Crossley sits down with West University Elementary Principal, Principal Scott Disch, to talk about what makes West University Elementary School — and the West U community itself — such a special place. As West University Elementary School celebrates its 100th anniversary, Principal Disch reflects on the history of the school, the incredible level of parent involvement that continues to shape it today, and the traditions that generations of families still cherish. From Field Day and school programs to the famous red lockers and the school’s deep connection to neighborhood life, this conversation explores why WUES continues to be the heart of the West U community. Principal Disch also shares: • What surprised him most when transitioning from high school administration to elementary school leadership • Why West U still feels like a “small town” in the middle of Houston • How WUES manages to feel personal and connected despite serving more than 1,200 students • Stories from the school’s Centennial celebration and alumni events • His own family connection to West U Elementary • What it’s like being both Principal and dad to two students at the school Along the way, Natalie and Principal Disch reflect on the unique culture of West U, the importance of community traditions, and the people who quietly work behind the scenes to make this neighborhood such a special place to live and raise a family. Whether you’re a current WUES family, a longtime West U resident, an alum, or simply someone who loves hearing stories about community and connection, this episode is a celebration of one of Houston’s most beloved neighborhood schools. Follow The 005 for more conversations with the people, organizations, and local leaders shaping life in West University Place and the surrounding areas.

    Episode 1: Principal Disch & 100 Years of West U Elementary
See All (3)

About

The 005 is the podcast that celebrates the people, places, and stories that make West University Place, Texas such a special community!   Each episode takes you behind the scenes of our neighborhood — from local events and hidden gems to conversations with the community leaders, neighbors and business owners who live and work in West U. 

Information

  • Creator
    Natalie Crossley
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The 005
  • Show Website
    The 005