The Building Texas Show

Are you classifying your workers correctly? The difference between a 1099 contractor and a W-2 employee isn't a choice — it's the law. And getting it wrong can cost your business everything.In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Neil Katz, CEO of Exceptional HR Solutions, to break down one of the biggest HR risks facing growing businesses in Texas: worker misclassification. Neil shares 25+ years of HR expertise and explains why fractional HR services are a game-changer for leaders spending too much time on people problems instead of building their business.🔑 What you'll learn:• The real difference between 1099 contractors and W-2 employees• Why workers don't get to choose their classification• What triggers audits and lawsuits around misclassification• How fractional HR helps growing companies manage risk• Why Neil's simple rule — "When in doubt, hire as W-2" — could save your businessConnect with Neil Katz & Exceptional HR Solutions:https://www.exceptionalhrsolutions.com

How does a barrier island with only 53,000 residents handle over 9 million visitors a year? In this episode of The Building Texas Show, we sit down with ‪City of Galveston Mayor Craig Brown to uncover the massive economic engine driving this historic Texas city.From becoming the 4th largest cruise port in the U.S. (moving 2 million passengers) to managing the unique challenges of sea-level rise and "nuisance flooding," Mayor Brown gives us an inside look at the business of running a top tourist destination. We also discuss the 1900 hurricane legacy, the "hidden gem" winter season, and why major cruise lines are betting big on Galveston in 2026.In this episode, we cover:0:00 - Introduction: The Galveston Boom0:34 - How a Retired Pediatric Dentist Became Mayor3:38 - The Cruise Capital: 2 Million Passengers & A New Terminal6:23 - The Logistics of 9 Million Visitors vs. 53k Residents7:29 - Galveston’s Hidden Engine: UTMB & Higher Education10:19 - Infrastructure: Battling "Nuisance Flooding" & Sea Levels14:13 - Beyond the Beach: Dickens on The Strand & Winter Tourism17:04 - The Mayor’s Guide to Galveston’s Best Kept Secrets17:58 - Final Thoughts on the Future of the Island#GalvestonTX #TexasEconomy #BuildingTexas #GalvestonIsland #TexasTravel #CruiseLife #UrbanPlannin

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

Bastrop, Texas is one of the fastest-growing small cities in the state.Mayor Ishmael Harris joins The Building Texas Show to explain how Bastrop,‪@btxntvonline‬, is balancing explosive growth, global investment, and small-town heritage.In this episode of ‪@thebuildingtexasshow‬ host Justin McKenzie sits down with Ishmael Harris, Mayor of Bastrop, as part of our statewide Texas Mayor Interview Series.Bastrop has added thousands of residents in just a few years and is now home to major global employers—putting new pressure on infrastructure, housing, schools, and community identity. Mayor Harris, a Bastrop native and former Planning & Zoning Chair, shares how the city is navigating rapid growth while planning for the next generation.In this episode, we discuss:Bastrop’s population growth and regional impactCorporate responsibility in rural Texas communitiesPreserving heritage while welcoming new residentsDowntown revitalization and major community eventsWorkforce development, schools, and STEM programsThe need for regional infrastructure, including healthcareA long-term vision for Bastrop heading into 2026 and beyondThis conversation offers a grounded, on-the-ground look at leadership in a fast-changing Texas city—and what it takes to build a future that works for both longtime residents and newcomers.

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.

We're excited to present an episode of the Building Texas show, live from Fort Worth. Our guest, a professor at Texas Christian University, shares insights into the city's dynamic growth and his work in finance and private equity. This discussion highlights the intersection of education and business within the vibrant Fort Worth community.The numbers don't lie: The city of Ft. Worth just secured $6.7 billion in capital investment for FY 2025. But how did they do it?In this episode of The Building Texas Show, Justin McKenzie sits down with Brandon Chicotsky (TCU Professor) to decode the massive economic shift happening in North Texas. While other cities dominate the headlines, Fort Worth is quietly building a powerhouse economy driven by aerospace, advanced tech, and logistics.We discuss the critical role of "functional local government," how TCU is feeding the talent pipeline, and why long-term economic strategy is beating short-term hype.In This Episode:[00:00] The $6.7 Billion Capital Injection[02:15] Why Fort Worth? The "Functional Government" Advantage[05:30] The TCU Effect: Academic Partnerships Driving Growth[09:45] Beyond Cowboys: Aerospace, Tech & Logistics Sectors[14:20] The Future of the Texas EconomyFeatured & Mentioned:Texas Christian University (TCU)Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing Sectors#FortWorth #TexasEconomy #BrandonChicotsky #BusinessNews #InvestingInTexas #EconomicDevelopment

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.

Is Pflugerville becoming the new economic heart of Central Texas? We sat down with Mayor Doug Weiss to uncover how this quiet suburb transformed into a major powerhouse while fighting to keep its small-town soul.From the strategic impact of the SH-130 corridor to being named the 'Trail Capital of Texas,' discover how Pflugerville is balancing massive economic development with local job creation and community culture. If you're interested in the future of Texas cities, this conversation is essential viewing.Welcome to this episode of the Building Texas show, featuring an interview with Doug Weiss, the newly elected mayor of Pflugerville Texas. We discuss the ongoing work of the city council and the broader impact of city government on the community. This conversation highlights local politics and the role of community leaders in shaping the future of @CityofPflugerville .Mayor Weiss’s background in city governmentThe economic strategy: Bringing jobs to residentsHow SH-130 changed the game for local businessSports tourism & The Trail Capital of TexasSubscribe for more inside looks at the people building the future of Texas!pflugerville texas, mayor doug weiss, living in austin texas, austin suburbs, 60 texas real estate, sh-130 corridor, pflugerville economy, moving to Texas, central texas growth, 37 building texas show, urban planning 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

In this episode of @thebuildingtexasshow we sit down with Heather Fazio from the @texascannabispolicy to discuss the emerging marijuana marketplace in Texas. We explore the nuances of current marijuana policy and the potential impacts of THC and CBD on the state's economy. This conversation sheds light on the future of cannabis drug testing and related regulations.Texas cannabis policy is changing fast. We break down hemp vs marijuana, regulation, safety, and what Texans should expect next.In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Heather Fazio, Executive Director of the Texas Cannabis Policy Center, to explain how cannabis policy has evolved in Texas—and what thoughtful regulation could look like moving forward.They discuss the rise of hemp shops across the state, why Governor Abbott vetoed a ban on hemp products, how Texas compares to states like Colorado and Oklahoma, and why education, enforcement, and consumer safety matter more than prohibition.This conversation is released ahead of the Texas Cannabis Policy Conference and offers clarity for business owners, policymakers, and everyday Texans trying to understand a rapidly growing marketplace.Topics Covered• Hemp vs marijuana under Texas law• Why Texans oppose prohibition• Medical cannabis and the Compassionate Use Program• Gaps in regulation and enforcement• Lessons from Colorado and Oklahoma• Public health, safety, and consumer education• The future of cannabis policy in Texas00:00 Texas cannabis policy explained00:44 Why cannabis regulation is a growing issue in Texas01:45 Hemp shops, CBD stores, and consumer confusion02:15 Hemp vs marijuana: what’s legal in Texas03:40 Medical cannabis and the Compassionate Use Program04:14 What Texas can learn from Colorado and Oklahoma06:24 How Texas became the 40th medical cannabis state06:30 Who attends the Texas Cannabis Policy Conference07:20 Federal hemp policy uncertainty explained08:25 Public health, safety, and responsible regulation09:55 Where to learn more about Texas cannabis policy

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

What makes the City of Lubbock one of the most underrated growth stories in the state?In this episode of The Building Texas Show host Justin McKenzie sits down in Lubbock with Mayor Mark McBrayer for a deep, honest conversation about how this West Texas city is planning for the future — not just the next election cycle, but the next 100 years.Lubbock is often associated with @texastech but as Mayor McBrayer explains, the city stands on three powerful pillars: education, agriculture, and healthcare — with a growing industrial and entrepreneurial economy now accelerating that momentum.In this conversation, we explore:Why Lubbock is one of the youngest major cities in TexasHow long-term water and infrastructure planning is shaping growthWhy Leprino Foods, the largest mozzarella producer in the U.S., invested nearly $1 billion in LubbockWhat makes Lubbock a magnet for businesses, families, and entrepreneursThe role of downtown revitalization, culture, and civic investmentWhy quality of life — not congestion — is driving the next wave of Texas growthHow Lubbock collaborates with other West Texas cities like Midland-Odessa and AmarilloWhat Mayor McBrayer wants residents to look forward to in 2026 and beyondThis episode is for anyone interested in:Texas economic developmentMid-sized cities and growth strategyWater, infrastructure, and long-range planningEntrepreneurship and business relocationThe future of West Texas📍 Watch the full episode and join the conversation in the comments📌 Subscribe to The Building Texas Show for long-form conversations shaping the future of Texas🔔 New episodes featuring cities, founders, and leaders across Texas🔗 Helpful Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeLubbock Economic Development AllianceTexas Tech University & Innovation HubUniversity Medical Center & Covenant HealthLet’s talk Texas.Where do you see the next wave of growth happening — West Texas or the Texas Triangle?

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

Is the Texas space industry the new gold rush? In this episode of The Building Texas Show, Justin McKenzie sits down with Mike Pryor from the Texas Space Coalition to reveal how the state is transforming into a global aerospace powerhouse—and why it’s happening in unexpected places like El Paso.If you are looking to pivot your career or understand the future of the Texas economy, this conversation is for you. We cover the exploding demand for 57 aerospace engineering jobs, how the coalition connects universities with industry giants, and why now is the perfect time to enter the space sector.In this episode, we cover:The rise of the Texas Space Coalition and its mission.Why El Paso is becoming a critical hub for space innovation.The connection between universities, government, and the private sector.Real pathways for building a career in the 48 space industry.Deep Dive: UTEP & El Paso’s Strategic PartnersThis conversation highlights the pivotal role of The University of Texas at El Paso ( @utep ) as the anchor for the region's space ambitions. Mike Pryor details how UTEP’s world-class engineering programs and research capabilities are creating a direct talent pipeline for the aerospace sector. We also discuss the collaborative efforts of El Paso’s economic development leaders—including city leadership and regional coalitions—who are working hand-in-hand with the Texas Space Coalition. Together, they are aligning government support, industry needs, and higher education to transform El Paso into a globally competitive hub for space manufacturing and technology.About The Building Texas Show:The Building Texas Show is your inside look at the people, industries, and communities shaping the future of Texas. From fast-growing startups to civic leaders, we explore what drives transformation across the Lone Star State.#TexasSpace #AerospaceCareers #BuildingTexas #ElPaso #SpaceIndustry #MikePryor #TexasEconomy #futureofwork Join us for the latest news from El Paso, Texas, as we meet with Mike Pryor from the Texas Space Coalition. This travel video explores the coalition's unique geography and purpose, offering insights into why El Paso is one of the best places to visit in Texas. Discover the origin story of this important organization and what it means for the region's future.

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

Welcome to the Building Texas Show! In this episode, we chat with Mayor Tom Gilgore about Lakeway, a beautiful community situated just west of Austin. Discover the charm of the Texas Hill Country and the unique austin lifestyle that makes this area a prime location for real estate. We dive into what makes living in austin texas so appealing, especially in growing residential areas like Lakeway. Is Lakeway, Texas the best alternative to living in Austin? We explore the massive growth in the Texas Hill Country, managing real estate demand, and the future of this lakeside community with Mayor Tom Kilgore.00:00 – Welcome to Lakeway, Texas01:00 – Why Mayor Kilgore Serves in Texas Local Government03:00 – Lakeway’s Rapid Growth Since 201005:30 – Texas Zoning Laws: Property Rights vs. Growth Limits07:00 – Property Taxes in Texas: How Lakeway Manages Revenue08:30 – Supporting Local Businesses & “Buy Local” Initiatives10:30 – Lake Travis Tourism & The Hotel Occupancy Tax11:30 – Hosting the Special Olympics of Texas13:30 – Regional Collaboration with Bee Cave & Neighboring Cities16:00 – Master Planning, Public Input, and Civic Engagement19:00 – The Reality of Volunteer City Leadership21:00 – Wildfire Safety & Preparedness in the Hill Country25:00 – Looking Ahead to 2026 & Community Traditions27:00 – Final Reflections on Leadership and Service#LakewayTX #AustinRealEstate #TexasHillCountry #LakeTravis #TexasPolitics #MovingToTexas #texasleadership

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 Gus Pappas, Mayor of Bellaire, for a deep, candid conversation on what it takes to govern one of the Houston region’s most distinctive communities.Bellaire is a fully built-out enclave city surrounded by Houston—unable to expand outward, yet actively investing inward. Mayor Pappas shares how disciplined zoning, long-term infrastructure planning, and regional collaboration are allowing Bellaire to modernize without losing its identity as a “city of homes.”The conversation explores Bellaire’s $110 million regional drainage and flood mitigation initiative, the realities of local governance, and why patience, judgment, and stewardship matter more than speed in city leadership. From Hurricane Harvey lessons to interlocal cooperation with Houston, Harris County, and the State of Texas, this episode provides a rare look at how small cities can lead on big issues.The episode also highlights the cultural and lifestyle elements that define Bellaire—parks, neighborhood traditions, community festivals, and a civic philosophy focused on protecting the city’s soul while planning for future generations.This is an essential watch for anyone interested in Texas cities, local leadership, infrastructure, real estate stability, and long-term community building inside major metropolitan regions.Watch the full episodeLike and subscribe to The Building Texas Show for more conversations with leaders shaping TexasLearn more about Bellaire, Texas, and why it continues to stand apart inside HoustonChapters / Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Bellaire, Texas and Mayor Gus Pappas01:00 Why Gus Pappas chose public service and city leadership03:15 What eight years on city council teaches about governance05:30 Why local government decisions are harder than they appear07:10 Bellaire as a Houston enclave: growth without expansion09:40 Infrastructure as growth: parks, redevelopment, and amenities11:45 The $110M drainage project and lessons from Hurricane Harvey15:30 Interlocal agreements with Houston, Harris County, and Texas18:00 Bellaire’s governance structure and the role of a city manager20:10 Zoning, master planning, and protecting neighborhood character23:00 Preserving Bellaire’s soul: homes, traditions, and community life25:40 Why Bellaire remains one of Houston’s most desirable communities26:30 Closing thoughts on leadership, patience, and stewardship#TheBuildingTexasShow#BellaireTexas#HoustonTexas#TexasCities#LocalLeadership#CityGovernance#InfrastructureMatters#TexasMayors#UrbanPlanning#CommunityBuilding

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 episode of @thebuildingtexasshow host Justin McKenzie sits down with Rob Hardy, Mayor of Sunrise Beach Village, for a deep conversation on small-town leadership, life on Lake LBJ, and what it really takes to run a city of just 800 residents in the Texas Hill Country.Located in Llano County, Sunrise Beach Village is a unique waterfront community with five public parks, a locally run police department, and a strong culture of volunteerism. Mayor Hardy explains why the city chose incorporation, how municipal services work in rural Texas and the realities of managing infrastructure, emergency services, and water systems in a fast-growing region.This episode covers:Why Sunrise Beach Village is incorporated while nearby communities are notThe challenges and benefits of governing a small Texas cityHow parks, police, and code enforcement shape quality of lifeThe role of Emergency Service Districts and volunteer fire departmentsManaging water infrastructure after acquiring it from Lower Colorado River AuthorityWhy mayors of small towns are often unpaid, full-time public servantsGrowth pressures spreading west through the Hill CountryIf you’re interested in Texas communities, rural leadership, municipal government, or the future of life along the Highland Lakes, this episode offers an honest, inside look at how it all works.Subscribe for more conversations exploring the people and places shaping Texas.