The Building Texas Show

In this episode of The Building Texas Show’s Mayoral Series, host Justin McKenzie travels to Alpine, Texas, to sit down with Mayor Catherine Eaves for a candid and substantive conversation about rural governance, emergency medical services reform, tourism growth, civic engagement, and the future of Far West Texas.Alpine serves as the gateway to Big Bend National Park and is positioning itself as the “Dark Sky Capital of Texas.” But beyond tourism, the city is facing real-world challenges—most notably the potential loss of its third-party EMS provider and the economic realities rural communities face in delivering essential services.Mayor Eaves, a former science educator and dual-credit professor with Lone Star College, brings a unique civic lens to leadership. From launching City Government 101 courses to forming a monthly leadership huddle with Brewster County, Alpine ISD, and Sul Ross State University, this episode highlights a replicable model of rural collaboration.Topics Covered:• The EMS crisis facing rural Texas communities• How Alpine is responding to ground ambulance challenges• The role of interlocal agreements in rural governance• Tourism strategy and historic downtown designation• Big Bend visitor economy impact• Dark sky tourism and branding• Sul Ross State University’s role in workforce development• Civic education and public engagementIf you're interested in rural economic development, Texas leadership, or the real mechanics of city government, this is a must-watch episode.Visit Alpine Texas: https://visitalpinetexas.comLearn more about The Building Texas Show: https://www.buildingtexasshow.com

The Rio Grande Valley is one of the most misunderstood — and fastest-growing — regions in Texas.In this episode of ‪The Building Texas Show‬, host Justin McKenzie sits down with the City of Edinburg‬ Mayor Omar Ochoa to explore why Edinburg is emerging as a major economic hub for South Texas, how regional collaboration is reshaping the Valley’s future, and why businesses, engineers, and families are choosing to stay.From cross-border trade and infrastructure growth to quality of life, festivals, and greenfield development opportunities, this conversation breaks down what’s really happening in the Rio Grande Valley — and why the rest of Texas should be paying attention.If you are thinking about Texas growth, economic development, infrastructure, or the future of regional cities, this episode is for you. How many things in your house came from the RGV? Subscribe for more conversations about the cities, leaders, and ideas shaping Texas.

Tomball, Texas is one of the rare communities that has experienced explosive regional growth without losing its identity.In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Mayor Lori Klein Quinn to explore how Tomball has intentionally planned its future—while fiercely protecting its past.Founded in 1907 and once known as Oil Town USA, Tomball has evolved from a railroad and farming town into one of the most desirable small cities in the Greater Houston region. With just 14 square miles, Tomball has used smart zoning, proactive transportation planning, strong regional partnerships, and community-first leadership to maintain a true hometown feel—even as major highways, population growth, and development surround it.In this conversation, Mayor Quinn shares:How zoning reshaped Tomball’s growth strategyWhy the city pushed back on TxDOT to preserve Main StreetThe role of award-winning schools and Lone Star CollegeHow Tomball balances festivals, heritage, and economic developmentWhy long-term planning means thinking 30 years ahead, not 3If you are interested in Texas cities, small-town preservation, economic development, or civic leadership done right, this episode is a must-watch.👉 Plan your visit to Tomball👉 Learn how intentional leadership shapes lasting communities👉 See why Tomball is truly a Hometown with a HeartSubscribe to The Building Texas Show for conversations about the people, places, and ideas shaping the future of Texas.

​ @CityofHelotesTexas sits at the gateway to the Texas Hill Country—and with growth accelerating across Central Texas, the city is facing the same hard questions many small towns are struggling with.In this episode of @thebuildingtexasshow host Justin McKenzie sits down with Helotes Mayor Rich Whitehead for a candid, inside look at how a growing Texas city balances development, financial discipline, identity, and civic responsibility—without losing what makes it special.From @JohnTFloores and Market Days to land-use strategy, tax policy, and citizen engagement, Mayor Whitehead breaks down what it really takes to steward a community into the future.This conversation is essential viewing for:City leaders and council membersDevelopers and plannersSmall-town advocatesTexans curious about how growth actually gets managedTopics Covered:Managing growth along Highway 16Preserving historic downtown HelotesDebt-free city strategyWhy Helotes lowered property taxesETJ development and annexationCivic apathy vs civic responsibilityWhy good leadership still needs citizen involvement📍 Learn more about @CityofHelotesTexas City of Helotes: https://www.helotes-tx.govHelotes Economic Development Corporation (https://helotesedc.com/)🎙️ Subscribe to @thebuildingtexasshow for conversations about Texas cities, leadership, entrepreneurship, and the future of our communities.00:00 – Welcome to Helotes, Texas00:11 – Why Helotes Matters in the Texas Hill Country01:18 – Growth, Highway 16, and Being a Gateway City01:52 – Helotes’ History and Small-Town Identity03:09 – When Growth Forces Hard Conversations03:33 – Civic Apathy, Leadership, and Responsibility05:37 – Walkable Downtowns, Parks, and Quality of Life06:07 – Market Days, Tourism, and Economic Activity07:52 – Helotes’ True Size and Responsibility as a City08:33 – Landlocked Cities, ETJs, and Development Strategy10:27 – Long-Term Planning and Demographic Shifts10:50 – COVID’s Impact on City Finances12:24 – Financial Discipline and Debt-Free Cities13:13 – The Danger of “Everything’s Going Well”15:25 – Why Citizens Must Stay Involved15:53 – Planning & Zoning as Civic Entry Points16:03 – Infrastructure, Traffic, and Misplaced Blame18:03 – How Citizens Can Be Part of the Solution18:29 – Where to Learn More About Helotes19:19 – Events, Festivals, and Community Culture20:34 – What Makes Helotes Unique21:00 – Final Thoughts on Stewardship and Leadership

Is Texas about to overtake Silicon Valley? In this episode of @thebuildingtexasshow we sit down with Robert Pieroni from @gener8tor to uncover why the Lone Star State is becoming the ultimate destination for entrepreneurs. From the massive economic impact of the 2026 World Cup to the explosion of local venture capital, discover the hidden opportunities waiting for Texas founders.CHAPTERS:0:00 Coming Up1:45 Who is Robert Pieroni? (Inside Gener8tor)4:20 Why Startups Are Flocking to Texas Right Now9:15 The "Texas Triangle" Strategy: Connecting Cities14:30 The 2026 World Cup: A Massive Economic Catalyst21:00 How to Get Into a Startup Accelerator26:45 The Future of Innovation in Texas32:10 Final Thoughts & Advice for Founders👤 ABOUT OUR GUEST: Robert Pieroni is a key leader at Gener8tor, a nationally ranked venture capital firm and accelerator that brings together startup founders, investors, and universities. He is driving the charge to make Texas the global hub for innovation.👇 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Are you building a business in Texas? What’s your biggest challenge? Let us know in the comments below!#BuildingTexas #Gener8tor #TexasStartups #RobertPieroni #TexasEconomy #WorldCup2026 #VentureCapital #entrepreneurship #houston chronicleTexas Startups, Gener8tor Accelerator, Robert Pieroni, Texas Economy 2026, Business in Texas, Venture Capital Texas, Austin Startup Scene, Dallas Entrepreneur, World Cup Economic Impact, How to start a business in Texas, The Building Texas Show, Justin McKenzie, Startup Funding

Is Sugar Land poised to become the most exciting suburb in Texas? In this episode of The Building Texas Show, Justin sits down with Mayor Carol McCutcheon—the first female mayor of Sugar Land—to discuss the massive transformation happening in 2026. From the revitalization of the Imperial Historic District to the city's pivotal role in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, we cover exactly how this region is shaping the future of the Lone Star State.If you are interested in 72 living in houston, local politics, or the economic boom of 62 texas, this interview is a must-watch.Timestamps & Key Takeaways:[00:00] Intro: Meet Mayor Carol McCutcheonWe introduce Sugar Land’s trailblazing leader and set the stage for a discussion on growth, leadership, and the future of the city.[02:15] Breaking Barriers: The First Female MayorMayor McCutcheon shares her personal journey, her motivations for running for office, and what it means to lead a rapidly growing city in 2026.[05:30] The Imperial Historic District TransformationA deep dive into the exciting acquisition and redevelopment plans for the Imperial Historic District. Learn how this project will reshape the city's cultural and economic landscape.[09:45] Sugar Land & FIFA World Cup 2026Exclusive details on Sugar Land's role as a host city supporter for the World Cup. We discuss the influx of tourism, economic benefits, and what locals can expect during the tournament.[14:20] Economic Growth & New DevelopmentsWhat’s next for business in the region? We look at the innovation initiative's around Life Sciences and the broader strategy for attracting innovation and families to the area.[18:00] Why Sugar Land is the Future of TexasFinal thoughts on the amenities, community spirit, and strategic vision that make Sugar Land a top destination for living and working in the Greater Houston area.Hashtags:#SugarLandTexas #BuildingTexas #MayorMcCutcheon #FIFA2026 #TexasRealEstate #HoustonSuburbs

Midland, Texas is evolving beyond oil and gas—emerging as a hub for space, infrastructure, workforce development, and long-term growth in Texas.In this episode of The Building Texas Show, Mayor Lori Blong explains how Midland is planning for the next 5, 50, and 100 years.In this conversation, host Justin McKenzie and Lori Blong, Mayor of Midland, discuss infrastructure-led economic development, water planning in West Texas, the Midland spaceport, aerospace innovation, and why Midland’s young workforce is shaping the city’s future.Chapters & Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to Midland, TexasWhy Midland matters to Texas, energy independence, and the nation.00:43 – Meet Mayor Lori BlongBackground, leadership, and why this moment matters for Midland.01:16 – Beyond Oil & Gas: Midland’s Next ChapterHealthcare, education, aerospace, and diversified growth.02:24 – Workforce Challenges & OpportunityLow unemployment, talent attraction, and preparing the next generation.02:55 – Why Continuity in City Leadership MattersReelection, long-term momentum, and stable governance.03:39 – Serving a Hometown CommunityWhy Mayor Blong chose public service in Midland.04:20 – How Far Ahead Is Midland Planning?Five-year strategies vs. 100-year infrastructure decisions.05:47 – Water in the Desert: Midland’s 100-Year PlanWater rights, regional sourcing, and future-proofing the city.06:42 – Master Plans, Transparency & Civic EngagementWhy residents should read the city’s comprehensive plan.08:22 – Turning Vision into ActionHow Midland’s strategic plan drives near-term decisions.09:35 – Economic Development That Actually WorksInfrastructure-first growth and creating a business-friendly environment.10:40 – Satellites Built in MidlandAST SpaceMobile, the spaceport, and aerospace innovation in West Texas.11:32 – National Defense & Space TechnologyWhy Midland plays a role in America’s security future.13:01 – Building Infrastructure You Don’t Have to Think AboutThe unseen work that makes cities function.13:46 – Tourism & the Midland AirportSports tourism, workforce travel, and record-breaking airport growth.15:25 – What’s Ahead for Midland in 2026Quality of life, airport expansion, and long-term investments.16:38 – One of the Youngest Cities in TexasWhy a median age of 32 shapes Midland’s future.18:02 – Planning for Every GenerationBalancing growth for young families and longtime residents.18:55 – The Role of City StaffWhy public servants behind the scenes deserve recognition.19:55 – Final Thoughts: Opportunity & ResponsibilityManaging growth in a smart, sustainable way.20:44 – Closing & Invitation to Rediscover MidlandThis conversation dives into:Midland’s role as a Texas spaceport and emerging aerospace hubWhy infrastructure—not incentives—is driving economic developmentLong-term water planning in a desert cityWorkforce challenges and opportunities in the Permian BasinThe importance of master plans, strategic plans, and civic engagementQuality of life investments for one of the youngest cities in TexasWith a median age of just 32, Midland is a city built by families, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers. From oil and gas to national defense, satellites, sports tourism, and aviation, this episode reveals why Midland continues to punch far above its weight—and why its future matters far beyond West Texas.📍 Whether you’re a business owner, city leader, student, or Texan curious about the forces shaping the state’s future, this is a must-watch conversation.🔔 Subscribe to The Building Texas Show for conversations with the leaders, builders, and communities shaping the future of Texas.🌐 Learn more: https://www.buildingtexasshow.com

League City, Texas is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Houston–Galveston region — and in this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Nick Long, Mayor of League City, to talk about what’s driving that growth and how the city is managing it responsibly.Mayor Long shares his journey from growing up in League City to serving more than a decade in local government, including four years as mayor. Together, they explore how League City has grown from a small suburban town into a city of over 125,000 residents — with projections to exceed 200,000 in the coming decade.This conversation dives deep into:Property tax policy and fiscal responsibilityInfrastructure planning and regional collaborationThe impact of the Grand Parkway and port connectivityEconomic development without subsidiesTourism, boating, and quality of life along Clear Lake and Galveston BayLeague City’s role in aerospace, energy, and the modern Texas economyWith proximity to NASA, major Texas ports, and Houston, League City offers a rare combination of opportunity, livability, and long-term planning.Whether you’re a Texas resident, business leader, policymaker, or simply curious about how cities grow the right way, this episode offers a clear look at what thoughtful leadership and community-first planning can achieve.Subscribe to The Building Texas Show for more conversations with the leaders shaping Texas’ future.00:00 – Welcome to League City, Texas00:34 – Mayor Nick Long’s background and time in office01:06 – From hometown resident to city leadership02:24 – What local government really looks like behind the scenes03:50 – League City’s explosive growth and future projections04:31 – Property taxes, appraisals, and city responsibility05:03 – No-new-revenue strategy and alternative funding sources06:43 – Sales tax, online commerce, and economic resilience07:45 – Why League City doesn’t subsidize growth08:55 – Infrastructure, regional collaboration, and the Grand Parkway10:39 – Texas ports and League City’s strategic position12:26 – Tourism, cruising, and staying in League City12:52 – NASA, Clear Lake, boating, and outdoor lifestyle13:42 – What League City is looking forward to in 202614:50 – Managing growth while protecting quality of life15:15 – Where citizens can learn more and get involved16:16 – Closing thoughts on League City’s futureLearn more at: www.buildingtexasshow.comLeague City TexasMayor Nick LongThe Building Texas ShowTexas cities growthHouston metro developmentTexas infrastructureTexas economic developmentNASA Clear LakeTexas ports economyProperty taxes TexasQuality of life Texas

In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Gary Forni, Chairman of the Central Texas Angel Network, for a deep, behind-the-scenes conversation on how angel investing actually works in Texas.If you’re an entrepreneur raising capital, a founder trying to understand investor decision-making, or a community leader working to build an innovation ecosystem in your city, this episode delivers rare clarity.Gary breaks down what most people never see:What an angel investor really is (and is not)Why angels invest their own money—and how that changes everythingHow angel networks reduce risk through discipline, governance, and processWhy Texas angel investing is becoming increasingly distributedHow rural and mid-sized communities like Abilene can participate in venture-backed growthWhat founders must do before pitching to avoid common red flagsThe conversation walks step-by-step through the Central Texas Angel Network’s full diligence and investment process, from reviewing over 100 applications per cycle to ultimately investing in just 1–2% of companies. Gary explains how structured screening, peer expertise, and multi-layer voting help angels avoid costly mistakes—and help founders become stronger, more investable companies even when the answer is “no.”You’ll also hear how CTAN collaborates statewide through syndication, why angel education matters just as much as capital, and how angel investors actively give back through mentorship, ecosystem building, and early-stage feedback.This episode is not theory—it’s real-world insight from someone who has evaluated hundreds of startups annually and helped guide companies from first checks to IPOs.

In this audio-only episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie returns to his hometown of Del Rio, Texas for an in-depth conversation with Al Arreola, Mayor of Del Rio.Mayor Arreola shares how Del Rio is entering a new era of economic growth—driven by infrastructure investment, regional collaboration, and the city’s unique position along the U.S.–Mexico border. From the long-term importance of a second international bridge to the stabilizing role of Laughlin Air Force Base, this episode explores why Del Rio is increasingly attractive to families, businesses, and industry leaders.The conversation also highlights cross-border cooperation with Ciudad Acuña, regional alignment with Eagle Pass and Piedras Negras, and the economic and recreational value of Lake Amistad.Mayor Arreola discusses:Population growth and inbound relocation from across the U.S.Border security and its impact on economic confidenceRetail trends, national brands, and cross-border commerceInfrastructure challenges facing Texas border communitiesWhy Del Rio’s future is rooted in collaboration, not competitionThis episode offers a clear, grounded look at how a border city is planning for long-term prosperity—while preserving its identity, hospitality, and sense of community.

In this news-style episode of ‪@thebuildingtexasshow‬ host Justin McKenzie sits down with Denton Mayor Gerard Hudspeth to discuss how the city is navigating rapid North Texas growth while preserving its unique identity. From higher education and workforce pipelines to major employers, tourism, housing, and large-scale master-planned development, this conversation provides a grounded look at what’s shaping Denton’s future. Mayor Hudspeth explains why cities must plan beyond election cycles, how Denton is creating pathways for graduates to stay and build careers, and what residents, visitors, and site selectors should be watching as the city moves toward 2026. Companies, Institutions, and Brands Mentioned in This Episode The interview references several organizations that play a direct role in Denton’s economy, workforce, and quality of life, including:‪@HEB‬ – Retail anchor for upcoming master-planned development‪@PeterbiltMotorsCompany‬ – Major employer and manufacturing presence‪@UofNorthTexas‬ Workforce, logistics, music, and public administration pipeline‪@TXWomans‬ – Education and healthcare workforce contributorTetra Pak – Industrial and manufacturing operations‪@Hillwood‬ – Partner on Denton’s landmark master-planned community‪@buceesyt‬ – Regional tourism and retail draw‪@DiscoverDenton‬ – Tourism, events, and visitor information hubAbout ‪@thebuildingtexasshow‬ The Building Texas Show is a statewide media platform focused on telling the real stories behind Texas cities, communities, and economic growth.Hosted by Justin McKenzie, the show features in-depth conversations with:Mayors and civic leadersEconomic developers and site selectorsEntrepreneurs, operators, and investorsCommunity builders shaping Texas’s futureEach episode is designed to be discoverable, evergreen, and useful—helping audiences understand how Texas communities grow, plan, and compete in a rapidly changing economy.

In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie travels to Pampa in the Texas Panhandle to sit down with Mike Borger, Mayor of Pampa, to explore one of the most compelling rural growth stories unfolding in Texas today.Once known primarily for oil, gas, and agriculture, Pampa is now positioning itself at the center of data centers, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and next-generation infrastructure. Mayor Borger shares how wind, solar, midstream energy assets, and strategic leadership are converging to drive new investment, higher wages, and long-term opportunity for residents.The conversation covers:Why Pampa is emerging as a data-center and energy hubHow legacy industries are evolving into future-ready careersMajor investments in schools, workforce training, and housingQuality-of-life assets that make Pampa a destination—not just a drive-throughThe leadership mindset required to reverse decline and unlock growthThis episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in Texas economic development, rural revitalization, energy infrastructure, workforce strategy, and the future of small and mid-sized American cities.Subscribe to The Building Texas Show for conversations with mayors, founders, and civic leaders shaping the future of Texas.