Texas Talks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how education, workforce development, and economic opportunity intersect to shape Texas’ future prosperity. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Dr. Wynn Rosser, Commissioner of Higher Education and Chief Executive Officer of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and John Hryhorchuk, Senior Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Texas 2036, for a discussion on how Texas can prepare more students for meaningful careers while sustaining one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. The conversation examines the state's evolving approach to education and workforce development, including dual-credit programs, credentials of value, outcomes-based funding, affordability, and strategies for connecting students with high-demand careers. Major topics include: Texas’ position as the world’s eighth-largest economy The importance of credentials of value and workforce alignment Expanding dual-credit opportunities in high school Community college reform and House Bill 8 Outcomes-based funding for higher education Career and technical education pathways Workforce shortages in healthcare, construction, and skilled trades College affordability and manageable student debt My Texas Future and career planning resources Data-driven policymaking and economic development Preparing Texas’ workforce for the industries of the future The path toward Texas’ 2036 goals The discussion highlights how decades of education reforms have expanded access to postsecondary opportunities and why policymakers are increasingly focused not only on college completion, but on ensuring students earn credentials that lead to strong labor market outcomes. Rosser and Hryhorchuk also discuss the role of economic development, community colleges, universities, workforce training programs, and career education in preparing Texans for emerging industries ranging from advanced manufacturing and healthcare to semiconductors, aerospace, and energy. Looking toward 2036, both guests argue that Texas’ continued success will depend on aligning education systems, workforce needs, and economic opportunities so that every Texan has a pathway to prosperity. 00:00 — Intro + The Future of Economic Prosperity 01:17 — Meet Wynn Rosser and John Hryhorchuk 03:53 — Why Texas’ future is still being written 05:01 — The opportunity gap and workforce challenges 06:43 — Why the education pipeline starts earlier 09:09 — Dual-credit success stories in Texas 12:02 — Can every student graduate with college credit? 15:45 — Credentials of value and workforce readiness 17:21 — Innovative education partnerships across Texas 19:10 — Beyond the traditional four-year degree 23:01 — Changing perceptions about career pathways 24:49 — Lifelong learning and workforce adaptability 26:22 — High-demand careers and earning potential 29:16 — Community college reform and House Bill 8 34:04 — College affordability and manageable debt 38:51 — My Texas Future and student planning tools 40:07 — Expanding higher education opportunities 42:53 — What Texas could look like in 2036 46:35 — Measuring progress toward Texas’ goals 48:11 — Legislative priorities and future reforms 52:02 — Final advice for students and families 53:46 — Closing thoughts on Texas opportunity Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores what separates effective public policy from policies that simply sound good. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Laura Arnold, co-founder of Arnold Ventures, and David Leebron, President and CEO of Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging discussion about evidence-based policymaking, education reform, workforce development, philanthropy, and the long-term future of Texas. The conversation focuses on a central question: how can policymakers create systems that produce measurable, long-term results instead of temporary political wins? Arnold and Leebron explain why data, accountability, and long-term thinking are critical to solving some of Texas’ biggest challenges — from higher education and workforce readiness to housing affordability, infrastructure, criminal justice, and childcare. Major topics include: • What makes a policy actually “work” • Why data and accountability matter in government • Community college reform and “credentials of value” • Connecting education pathways to workforce needs • The role of philanthropy in shaping public policy • Why Texas lawmakers need trusted nonpartisan data • Housing affordability and infrastructure challenges • Permitting reform and economic growth • Criminal justice reform and public safety • Childcare data gaps and workforce participation • The importance of long-term thinking before problems emerge • Building opportunity and economic mobility in Texas The episode also highlights several major initiatives supported by Arnold Ventures and Texas 2036, including reforms to Texas community college funding and investments in student support systems designed to improve graduation and career outcomes. A major theme throughout the discussion is the belief that good policy making should be judged not by ideology or political messaging, but by measurable outcomes that improve people’s lives. Looking toward 2036, both guests argue that Texas’ future success will depend on whether leaders can stay focused on evidence, opportunity, and practical solutions that operate at scale. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas overview 01:44 — Laura Arnold and David Leebron introductions 04:02 — Focus, scale, and long-term policy impact 05:21 — Why Arnold Ventures tackles systemic problems 07:26 — What makes a policy actually work 08:41 — Community colleges and “credentials of value” 11:01 — Workforce readiness and education reform 14:23 — Why government needs better data 17:34 — Helping lawmakers make better decisions 20:31 — The role of philanthropy in public policy 27:12 — San Jacinto College partnership explained 31:18 — Housing, infrastructure, and permitting reform 33:27 — Criminal justice reform and public safety 34:35 — Raising families and the future of Texas 37:10 — Opportunity, long-term planning, and 2036 vision 39:35 — Final thoughts on evidence-based policymaking Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores the region powering not just Texas — but increasingly the global economy: the Permian Basin. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Tracee Bentley, President and CEO of the Permian Strategic Partnership, and Jordan Wat, Director of Government Affairs at Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of energy, workforce growth, infrastructure, and community development in West Texas. The discussion begins with a striking reality: if the Permian Basin were its own country, it would rank as the fourth-largest energy producer in the world — behind only Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. But this conversation goes far beyond oil production alone. Bentley and Wat explain how the Permian Basin has become one of the most strategically important economic regions in the United States, supporting everything from electricity reliability and manufacturing to public education funding and technological innovation. The discussion covers: • Why the Permian Basin produces more than 50% of U.S. oil and gas • How drilling technology and AI transformed energy production • Why Texas energy production continues hitting record levels • The growing electricity demand driven by AI and data centers • Pipeline, transmission, and grid infrastructure bottlenecks • Natural gas, LNG, and Texas grid reliability after Winter Storm Uri • The role of the Permian in stabilizing global energy markets • Workforce shortages and the need for 176,000 additional workers by 2040 • Housing affordability challenges in Midland and Odessa • Health care access and specialty care shortages in West Texas • Water scarcity, produced water, and future recycling technologies • Career and technical education investments tied to workforce needs • Why literacy and workforce readiness remain major long-term concerns The episode also highlights how public-private partnerships are reshaping the region. Bentley explains how the Permian Strategic Partnership has invested more than $200 million into infrastructure, education, workforce development, and health care — leveraging those investments into billions more through state and federal collaboration. A major takeaway is that the future of the Permian Basin is no longer just an “energy story.” It is increasingly a story about building sustainable communities capable of supporting long-term economic growth. Looking toward 2036, both guests argue that Texas’ continued success depends on whether the state can match energy growth with investments in roads, schools, workforce training, housing, water infrastructure, and grid reliability. The message is clear: the future of Texas is deeply tied to the future of the Permian Basin. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Energy overview 01:35 — Why the Permian Basin matters globally 03:22 — Record energy production and drilling technology 05:04 — Jobs, workforce growth, and the Texas economy 07:18 — Education funding and workforce pipelines 09:09 — Innovation, AI, and modern energy production 13:26 — Electricity demand, LNG, and grid reliability 16:24 — Infrastructure bottlenecks and pipeline capacity 22:04 — Global energy markets and the Permian’s role 25:15 — Community life in Midland and Odessa 26:57 — Roads, schools, healthcare, and housing challenges 32:32 — Career training and workforce development 35:33 — Public-private partnerships and long-term planning 37:42 — Literacy, workforce readiness, and recruitment 45:06 — Water challenges and produced water innovation 47:22 — Looking toward 2036 + closing thoughts Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode tackles one of the most urgent and personal challenges facing Texans today: the rising cost of healthcare. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Avik Roy, Co-Founder and Chairman of FREOPP, and Charles Miller, Director of Health and Economic Mobility Policy at Texas 2036, for a deep dive into why healthcare costs keep rising — and what Texas can actually do about it. The conversation begins with a stark reality: healthcare affordability has become a top concern for voters, even surpassing issues like property taxes. With employer-sponsored family coverage approaching $27,000 per year and out-of-pocket costs averaging around $10,000 annually for Texas families, the financial strain is reshaping both household budgets and business decisions. A major theme is how the current system distorts incentives. Rather than functioning as a true free market, U.S. healthcare operates as a heavily subsidized system where consumers often lack visibility into prices — and have little control over spending decisions. The discussion covers: • Why healthcare costs are rising faster than wages and inflation • How employer-based insurance distorts consumer incentives • The role of federal tax policy in shaping today’s system • Why “free market vs government” is a false choice • The importance of competition, transparency, and aligned incentives • How monopoly power among hospitals and providers drives prices higher • Why past reforms — like surprise billing laws — sometimes backfire • The impact of vertical and horizontal consolidation in healthcare • How anti-competitive contracting limits consumer choice • Why Texas has made progress on transparency — but more is needed The episode also explores solutions that could reshape the Texas healthcare landscape. These include expanding price transparency, tackling provider monopolies, enabling more consumer-driven insurance models, and supporting innovative alternatives like direct payment systems and healthcare sharing models. Roy and Miller highlight promising developments already underway in Texas, including efforts to improve data transparency through all-payer claims databases and reforms targeting anti-competitive practices in provider contracts. Looking ahead, the goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress. Both guests emphasize that simply slowing the growth of healthcare costs to match inflation would represent a major win for Texas families and businesses. The takeaway is clear: the tools to fix healthcare affordability exist — but meaningful reform will require aligning incentives, increasing competition, and taking on entrenched interests within the system. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:30 — Why healthcare affordability matters now 01:13 — Cost of employer-sponsored coverage explained 02:00 — National vs Texas-specific cost challenges 03:12 — Texas vs California healthcare cost comparison 04:21 — Why affordability is now a top voter issue 05:21 — 53% cost increase over the past decade 06:41 — Why Texas policy drives higher costs 07:28 — Surprise billing reform and unintended consequences 08:24 — Incentives that drive price inflation 09:53 — Free market vs government: a false debate 10:14 — Why U.S. healthcare isn’t truly a free market 11:17 — Employer-based insurance and tax distortions 12:23 — Why consumers don’t behave like shoppers 13:23 — What a “healthy market” actually requires 14:17 — Transparency, competition, and incentives explained 15:25 — How subsidies can increase costs 16:09 — Insurance incentives and rising premiums 17:19 — Lack of price transparency in real-world care 17:58 — Switzerland as a model system 19:10 — Competition vs monopoly power in healthcare 20:29 — Real-world example: pricing distortions 21:42 — Hospital consolidation and market power 23:04 — Hospital Competition Act explained 25:02 — Why regulators struggle to fix consolidation 27:08 — Federal vs local enforcement gaps 29:33 — What Texas has done right so far 30:13 — Transparency reforms and data systems 31:05 — Anti-competitive contracting reforms 32:33 — Vertical integration and its risks 34:07 — What Texas still needs to fix 35:14 — Consumer-driven insurance models (ICHRA) 36:01 — Alternatives to traditional insurance 37:26 — Cash pricing and cost savings 38:04 — State employee health plans as a reform lever 40:31 — What success looks like by 2036 42:10 — Slowing cost growth as the first win 43:18 — Final thoughts + closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how higher education will shape the state’s workforce, economy, and long-term competitiveness. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Texas A&M Chancellor Glenn Hegar and David Leebron, President and CEO of Texas 2036 and former President of Rice University, for a comprehensive look at the future of higher education in a rapidly growing Texas. With millions more Texans expected by 2036, the conversation examines how universities are adapting to rising demand, changing workforce needs, and growing concerns about the cost and value of a college degree. A major theme is the evolving role of higher education — not just as a pathway to jobs, but as a driver of innovation, economic growth, and opportunity across the state. The discussion covers: • How Texas’ population growth is reshaping higher education demand • The gap between workforce needs and degree attainment • Why more Texans need postsecondary credentials • The role of regional universities and community colleges • Affordability challenges and pathways to lower student debt • Differences between public and private institutions • The importance of leadership, flexibility, and institutional independence • Collaboration across universities and with industry • How research drives innovation and new industries • Texas’ growing role in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing • Why space exploration is becoming a major economic opportunity • The future of nuclear energy and meeting rising power demand • The importance of K–12 readiness in long-term success • How policymakers can better align education with workforce needs The episode also highlights a key shift: universities are increasingly serving as hubs for talent development, research, and industry collaboration — all critical to maintaining Texas’ economic momentum. Looking ahead to 2036, success will be measured not just by enrollment, but by outcomes — including workforce readiness, income growth, and the ability of Texas institutions to compete globally. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:26 — Why higher education matters for Texas’ future 01:10 — Guest introductions: Glenn Hegar & David Leebron 02:14 — Texas A&M system size and statewide reach 03:19 — Growth across Texas universities 05:00 — Competing for students in a growing state 07:12 — Workforce demand vs degree attainment gap 08:51 — Expanding university missions and impact 10:18 — Growth of AI, semiconductors, and emerging industries 11:44 — Collaboration across universities and systems 13:13 — Interdisciplinary innovation and research 14:09 — Public vs private universities explained 15:55 — Leadership and institutional flexibility 17:09 — Affordability challenges in higher education 18:01 — Community colleges and alternative pathways 19:07 — Financial aid transparency and access 20:21 — Policy priorities for the next decade 21:57 — Investing in research and innovation 23:04 — K–12 pipeline and readiness challenges 24:59 — Space industry growth and Texas’ role 27:35 — Economic impact of space innovation 30:37 — Semiconductor investment and workforce pipeline 33:10 — Universities and private industry collaboration 36:14 — Nuclear energy and future power needs 38:46 — Measuring success by 2036 41:15 — Final thoughts on leadership and opportunity 43:07 — Closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores one of the most critical challenges facing the state’s future: building an electric grid that can keep up with rapid growth while remaining reliable and affordable. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Pablo Vegas, President and CEO of ERCOT, and Jeremy Mazur, Director of Infrastructure and Natural Resources Policy at Texas 2036, for a deep dive into how Texas is preparing its power grid for the next decade. The conversation examines how Texas operates one of the most unique deregulated electricity markets in the country — and why that system is being tested by population growth, extreme weather, and rising demand from data centers and new industries. Vegas explains how ERCOT manages supply and demand in real time while forecasting long-term growth, while Mazur breaks down the policy shifts that followed Winter Storm Uri and how lawmakers are approaching reliability and infrastructure. The discussion covers: • How Texas’ deregulated electricity market works • Generation, transmission, and retail explained • Post-Uri reforms and reliability focus • Supply chain and permitting challenges • Growth of solar, wind, and battery storage • The need for a more balanced energy mix • Water’s role in energy reliability • Data center-driven demand growth • Who pays for new infrastructure • What drives electricity prices • Limits of current market incentives • Distributed energy and future grid innovation The episode also highlights a key policy shift: large energy users like data centers may be required to reduce demand first during grid emergencies — protecting residential consumers and critical services. Looking ahead, the conversation underscores a central challenge: Texas must not only build more power, but build the right mix of power to ensure long-term reliability and affordability. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:21 — Meet Pablo Vegas (ERCOT) & Jeremy Mazur (Texas 2036) 01:21 — Why Texas’ electric grid matters more than ever 02:02 — Winter Storm Uri: what changed since 2021 03:09 — How Texas’ electricity market works (3-part system) 05:03 — Policy changes and focus on grid reliability 06:20 — Texas growth and rising electricity demand 07:22 — ERCOT’s role: balancing supply and demand 08:09 — Forecasting future demand and infrastructure needs 08:56 — Why power plants take years to build 10:22 — Supply chain issues and energy development delays 11:18 — How incentives shaped solar, wind, and battery growth 13:10 — Water’s critical role in energy reliability 14:10 — Drought risks and power generation challenges 15:31 — Are we building enough power for the future? 16:55 — The imbalance in today’s energy mix 18:48 — Why Texas needs a balanced portfolio of energy sources 19:08 — Legislative efforts to expand nuclear & geothermal 20:14 — Why renewables helped during extreme heat events 21:00 — The future of nuclear, geothermal, and new tech 22:05 — Market design flaws: not all electricity is valued equally 24:02 — Why reliability isn’t priced into the system 25:26 — Data centers: massive demand growth explained 29:18 — Will all proposed data centers actually get built? 31:09 — Who pays for grid expansion? 33:00 — Transmission costs and rate impacts 34:43 — Ensuring fair cost allocation for consumers 35:28 — Can Texas handle future demand growth? 36:13 — Data centers as part of the energy solution 38:23 — New rules: data centers shut off first in emergencies 40:19 — Behind-the-meter energy (self-powered facilities) 41:23 — What will happen to electricity prices? 43:50 — Why Texas still has relatively low power costs 46:05 — Post-Uri reforms and grid resilience improvements 48:20 — Preparing for extreme weather in the future 49:54 — The future: distributed energy and grid innovation 51:30 — Final thoughts + Texas 2036 outlook Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores what it really takes to raise a family in Texas today — and what must hold up over the next decade if the state wants to remain a place of opportunity. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker and A.J. Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging conversation about the policies, pressures, and quality-of-life factors shaping family life across Texas. The discussion begins with a simple but important question: if Texas wants to remain the best place to live, work, and raise a family, what does that actually require in practice? Parker and Rodriguez argue that the answer goes far beyond economic headlines. It includes affordability, maternal and infant health, access to quality education, child care, safe neighborhoods, housing, and the everyday experience of whether families feel like they can build a stable and hopeful future here. A major focus of the episode is how growth is reshaping Texas. As cities like Fort Worth continue to add residents at a rapid pace, leaders are being forced to ask whether the state’s success is truly working for Texas families — especially those who have been here for generations. Parker emphasizes that city government must stay focused on the basics while also addressing long-term quality-of-life issues, while Rodriguez brings a statewide lens to how those same pressures show up across Texas. The conversation also covers: • Why family well-being should be central to long-term Texas policy • Maternal and infant health challenges in Texas and North Texas • How simple interventions can improve outcomes for mothers and babies • Why child care affordability has become a major barrier for families • The importance of early childhood education as an economic issue • Housing affordability, infill development, and middle-income opportunity • The role of local government in supporting quality of life • How education and postsecondary attainment drive long-term prosperity • Why family-sustaining wages matter for choice, stability, and mobility • The balance between rural and urban needs in the future of Texas Parker also highlights Fort Worth’s efforts to improve maternal health outcomes, support neighborhood revitalization, and expand opportunity through education and workforce pathways. Rodriguez underscores that if Texas wants to preserve its economic momentum, it must invest just as seriously in human infrastructure as it does in roads, water, and broadband. The episode closes with a clear message: the future of Texas will not be measured only by growth, but by whether families can afford to stay, thrive, and see a path forward for the next generation. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. 00:00 — Introduction to the Future of Texas series 00:29 — Why raising a family is central to Texas’s future 00:52 — Guests introduced: Mayor Mattie Parker and A.J. Rodriguez 01:28 — Balancing public service, motherhood, and leadership 03:02 — Why families matter to the Texas miracle 06:08 — Growth, migration, and whether Texas is working for Texans 07:47 — Quality of life and what families actually want 09:49 — Maternal and infant health in Texas 12:13 — Fort Worth’s maternal health coalition and practical interventions 15:05 — Health, education, and quality of life beyond birth 19:08 — Education, workforce pathways, and family prosperity 23:14 — Defining quality of life for Texas families 25:28 — Affordability, child care, housing, and health care pressures 28:34 — Housing affordability and local policy challenges 35:06 — Early childhood education and child care as economic policy 43:50 — Rural and urban family needs across Texas 49:35 — A long-term vision for Texas families 51:19 — The one metric that matters most by 2036 Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how Texas courts and the justice system must evolve to serve a rapidly growing state. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Chief Justice Wallace B. Jefferson, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas, and Luis Soberon, Senior Policy Advisor and In House Counsel at Texas 2036, for a forward-looking conversation about the future of courts, access to justice, and judicial reform in Texas. As Texas adds more residents, more businesses, and more complexity to its economy, the demands on the justice system are growing as well. Chief Justice Jefferson and Soberon discuss how population growth affects everything from family law and criminal dockets to business disputes and court backlogs — and why the state must modernize now if it wants to preserve public trust and timely access to justice by 2036. The conversation also examines how Texas courts have already evolved through electronic filing, virtual hearings, and greater public transparency, while also looking ahead to the next wave of change driven by AI, data systems, and digital tools that could make the justice system more accessible and more efficient. The discussion also covers: • Why access to justice still depends too heavily on who can afford a lawyer • How legal aid, pro bono work, and technology can help narrow that gap • The role of e-filing, courtroom livestreams, and digital systems in modernizing courts • How AI could improve legal access and court administration without replacing human judgment • Why Texas may need more courts, more judges, and stronger court funding as the state grows • Whether partisan judicial elections still make sense in a more populous and polarized Texas • Why court data and transparency are essential to understanding backlog, performance, and reform • How simple changes like text reminders and clearer notices can improve compliance and reduce harm • Why backlog reduction and access to justice may be the clearest markers of success by 2036 Chief Justice Jefferson argues that Texas should aim to become a national leader in ensuring every resident can protect their most basic rights in court, while Soberon emphasizes that better data, smarter administration, and sustained investment will be critical if the justice system is going to keep pace with Texas’s future. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. 00:00 — Introduction to the Future of Texas series and today’s justice focus 00:29 — Why population growth puts pressure on Texas courts 01:14 — Guests introduced: Chief Justice Wallace B. Jefferson and Luis Soberon 02:26 — What it means for justice to evolve in a growing state 03:22 — Access to justice and why cost remains the biggest barrier 04:15 — Technology, remote hearings, and how courts have already changed 05:44 — Chief Justice Jefferson on modernizing the Texas court system 07:16 — AI, court technology, and the future of legal access 09:53 — The growing gap between people who have lawyers and people who do not 11:22 — Legal aid, self-help tools, and high-volume civil cases 15:20 — How AI could transform legal work without replacing judges or lawyers 20:04 — How growth affects court demand, specialization, and business courts 24:25 — More judges, more courts, and pressure on judicial elections 27:53 — Can judicial independence survive a hyperpartisan environment? 32:23 — What a chief justice actually does in the Texas court system 37:30 — The data problem in Texas courts and why it matters 41:06 — How better data could reveal backlog, performance, and reform needs 47:30 — Transparency, text reminders, and making courts easier to navigate 53:08 — State policy changes needed to modernize Texas justice 56:16 — The one metric that will show whether Texas got it right by 2036 Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how rapid population growth is reshaping the state — and what it will take to manage that growth successfully over the next decade. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Henry Cisneros, former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and former mayor of San Antonio, and A.J. Rodriguez, Executive Vice President at Texas 2036, for a deep dive into the rise of Texas “mega regions” — particularly the fast-growing Austin–San Antonio corridor. With Texas now exceeding 31 million residents and continuing to grow rapidly, the conversation focuses on how interconnected metropolitan regions — including the broader Texas Triangle — are becoming the true drivers of economic growth, population expansion, and global competitiveness. Cisneros and Rodriguez explain that Texas is no longer defined primarily by rural or energy-based economies, but by large, dynamic urban regions producing the majority of the state’s GDP. They argue that the key challenge ahead is not whether Texas will grow — but whether leaders can plan effectively to manage that growth. The discussion also covers: • The rise of the Austin–San Antonio mega region and the broader Texas Triangle • Why regional collaboration — not city-by-city planning — is critical to future success • Housing affordability challenges and the risks of underbuilding • Water supply, infrastructure gaps, and long-term sustainability concerns • Transportation bottlenecks, congestion, and the need for rail and mobility innovation • Workforce development, education, and closing the postsecondary attainment gap • Economic mobility, poverty challenges, and the importance of human capital investment • Lessons from other global regions that failed — or succeeded — in managing growth The conversation highlights a central theme: Texas is at a pivotal moment. With the right planning, coordination, and investment, it could become one of the most dynamic economic regions in the world — but failure to act could lead to congestion, affordability crises, and missed opportunity. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. 00:00 — Introduction to Texas growth and the Future of Texas series 00:25 — Texas population growth and rise of mega regions 01:15 — Guests introduced: Henry Cisneros and A.J. Rodriguez 02:01 — Urbanization and the Texas Triangle explained 03:36 — Why Texas growth is inevitable — and what’s at stake 05:09 — Regionalism and planning for 2036 population growth 06:18 — Austin–San Antonio mega region and regional identity 08:14 — Economic power of Texas metro regions 09:44 — Texas as a global economic competitor 10:38 — Collaboration vs competition between cities 11:32 — Infrastructure challenges: transportation and congestion 16:11 — Water supply risks and long-term planning 18:43 — Housing affordability and supply challenges 22:08 — Economic mobility and poverty concerns 25:02 — Workforce development and education gaps 29:00 — Need for regional coordination and governance structures 32:04 — Rail, mobility innovation, and future transportation 37:00 — Role of state government and policy coordination 41:34 — Lessons from other regions that failed to plan 45:13 — Global competition and Texas’s economic potential 52:17 — Preparing the workforce for AI and future jobs 54:56 — What Texas must focus on before 2036 57:04 — Final vision: what Texas could become if done right Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

Brad Swail welcomes Charles Blain—Houston Chronicle contributor, Manhattan Institute City Journal writer, Fox 26 panelist, author of the forthcoming The Brotherhood of Facts (Johns Hopkins Press, spring 2027), and founder of Local Insights. Charles shares how an accidental AI-assisted review of Houston Metro contract documents uncovered a $215k-to-$4.2M ballooning deal tied to board chair conflicts—ultimately leading to cancellation after public pushback. He explains how Local Insights aggregates Texas local government data (budgets, bonds, agendas, campaign finance, property records, business ownerships, jail stats, court filings) into searchable dashboards, cross-references, trend alerts, and interrogatable interfaces—empowering everyday citizens, journalists, and activists to hold officials accountable without needing newsroom resources. They discuss AI’s role in leveling the civic playing field: parsing dense agendas, flagging anomalies, aiding open records fights, and educating users on government mechanics (strong vs. weak mayor systems, charters, CAFRs vs. budgets). Charles critiques Trump-era talk of banning institutional homebuyers (mostly mom-and-pop investors, not mega-corps) and argues Texas should focus on permitting reform, standardized processes, property tax relief (e.g., incentives for first-time buyers near aging parents), and deeper transparency mandates to boost affordability. Essential for anyone tracking Texas local governance, transparency, housing policy, or AI in public accountability. Visit localinsights.ai (or follow @CJBlain10 on X) for more. Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify for Texas Talks. 00:00:00 - Welcome to Texas Talks 00:00:06 - Guest Intro: Charles Blain – Writer, Commentator & Founder of Local Insights 00:00:51 - Meeting in Person After Years of Online Collaboration 00:01:36 - Charles’s Background: Houston Chronicle, City Journal, Fox 26, Forthcoming Book 00:02:19 - Origin of Local Insights: Accidental AI Use on Houston Metro Contract 00:03:45 - Metro Scandal Breakdown: $215k → $4.2M Contract & Board Chair Conflict 00:05:30 - How AI Flagged Issues & Led to Contract Cancellation 00:06:26 - Building Tools: From Templates to Civic Data Platform 00:07:23 - Hermann Park / Ben Taub Eminent Domain Dashboard Example 00:08:06 - Civic Engagement Mission: Leveling the Field for Citizens 00:09:35 - Who It’s For: Citizens, Journalists, Busy People Seeking Transparency 00:10:23 - Presentation to Water Board Directors & Early Demand 00:11:41 - Special Purpose Districts, Water Districts & Citizen Tools 00:12:51 - Full Platform: Every Texas Local Government Data (Budgets, Bonds, Agendas, Campaign Finance) 00:13:40 - Cross-Referencing: TDCJ, Campaign Finance, Property Records, Business Ownership 00:15:19 - Agenda Interrogation, Alerts & Jurisdiction Comparisons 00:17:11 - State-Level Data (Contracts, Legislative, Open Records) 00:18:13 - Public Information Act Tools: Collaboration, Filing Help & Trends 00:19:51 - Disappointing Need for This Tool + Future of Civic Transparency 00:21:22 - Educational Library: Government Basics (Strong/Weak Mayor, Charters, CAFRs) 00:22:51 - Property Taxes Confusion at Council Meetings & Clear Visuals 00:24:40 - Building Connections: Why Votes Happen, Potential Anomalies 00:26:34 - State Policy Ideas: Standardization, Deeper Transparency Mandates 00:27:35 - Jail Data, Court Filings & Missing Details Across Counties 00:29:02 - Personal Financial Statements & Persistent Denial Issues 00:30:31 - Who Uses It: Busy Citizens, Journalists, Activists 00:31:47 - Urgency: Local Accountability Drives Bigger Change 00:32:26 - Housing & Institutional Investors: Critique of Ban Proposals 00:33:47 - Mom-and-Pop vs. Mega Investors & Affordability Realities 00:35:21 - State Fixes: Property Tax Relief, First-Time Buyer Incentives 00:36:57 - Permitting Reform & Standardization as Key to Affordability 00:39:56 - AI in Permitting, Protests & Exemption Tracking 00:41:51 - Closing Thanks & Plugs: @CJBlain10 on Social Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

After the 2026 primaries delivered a fresh wave of “new blood” in the Legislature, will property taxes finally get crushed… or will the same old insider games continue? In this hard-hitting episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Jeramy Kitchen, President of Texas Policy Research and the driving force behind the brand-new Texas Liberty Compact. Jeramy breaks down exactly what the primary results mean for the 90th Legislature, why compression beats gimmick exemptions, how to finally kill taxpayer-funded lobbying, and the 10 structural reforms that could reshape Texas for a generation. If you’re tired of skyrocketing property taxes, backroom deals, and government bloat — this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. What you’ll learn: • Why “new blood” in Austin is both exciting and risky • The REAL difference between homestead exemptions and true compression • How the Texas Liberty Compact turns voter frustration into lasting reform • The next big fights: data centers, regulatory overreach, and budget transparency. 00:00 — Welcome and Jeramy Kitchen introduction 02:25 — 2026 primary results: mixed bag or game changer? 05:06 — Why “new blood” in the legislature matters 06:58 — Property tax reform and what could happen in 2027 08:44 — Compression explained and why it’s the most equitable fix 17:01 — The Texas Liberty Compact and its 10 policy planks 19:01 — Ending taxpayer-funded lobbying 22:48 — Limiting local spending and debt and stronger voter approval 28:34 — Making government transparent and understanding the budget 37:55 — Big policy fights ahead: data centers and regulation 41:07 — Closing thoughts and how Texans can get involved If you want honest, no-spin analysis of what’s coming to Austin next year, hit PLAY, smash that LIKE, and drop a comment: “What’s YOUR #1 issue for the 90th Legislature?” Subscribe for more unfiltered Texas policy deep-dives every week! Visit Texas Policy Research: https://www.texaspolicyresearch.com Read the full Texas Liberty Compact: https://texaslibertycompact.com Follow Jeramy: https://x.com/JeramyKitchen Turn on notifications — the 90th Legislature is coming fast, and this episode gives you the inside track! Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com

Is the “Texas Miracle” still alive — and what does it take to keep Texas competitive in 2026 and beyond? In this episode of Texas Talks, Megan Mauro, Interim President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business (TAB), joins Brad Swail to break down the state of the Texas economy. As the state chamber of commerce representing businesses of every size and industry, TAB sits at the center of Texas’ pro-growth policy debates. Mauro explains how Texas maintains its reputation as a top business destination — from no personal or corporate income tax to regulatory consistency and recent property tax relief for small businesses. She discusses HB 9’s business personal property tax exemption increase, why consistency across Texas’ 254 counties matters, and how the Legislature is approaching affordability and housing challenges. The conversation also dives into: Why Texas is the 7th largest economy in the world Attracting corporate headquarters while protecting small businesses The importance of USMCA for Texas trade Workforce alignment between industry and education Childcare as a workforce issue Why data centers and AI are both economic and national security priorities Texas’ “all of the above and below” energy strategy Mauro makes the case that a thriving business climate isn’t just about corporations — it’s about livelihoods, job creation, and ensuring Texas families can continue building the American dream. As the 90th Texas Legislature approaches, this episode explores what policies will shape the next chapter of the Texas economy. 00:00 — Introduction and Megan Mauro’s background 01:12 — What the Texas Association of Business does 03:13 — Light regulation and pro-business principles 04:35 — The Texas Miracle and economic growth 06:29 — Why industry diversity matters in Texas 10:01 — Data centers, AI, and national security 14:53 — Tech policy and regulatory consistency 18:47 — Balancing legacy industries with innovation 21:01 — Property tax reform and small business relief 27:10 — Affordability and housing challenges 29:21 — Energy policy and grid reliability 30:59 — Advocacy in Washington and USMCA 34:45 — Workforce development and childcare solutions 38:37 — TAB Foundation and education initiatives Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks Follow us on social mediaX: @Texas_DispatchInstagram: thetexasdispatchLinkedIn: The Texas DispatchTikTok: texas_talks_podcast Find more at The Texas DispatchYour source for state news, policy, and investigative journalism.https://thetexasdispatch.com