The Building Texas Show

From Meteorologist to Global Explorer: The Entrepreneurial Pivot of Jennifer Broome

In this inspiring episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Jennifer Broome, a former meteorologist turned multimedia travel and environmental journalist. Jennifer shares her journey of reinventing herself after leaving the TV news industry, discussing how she made an entrepreneurial pivot to pursue her passion for travel, adventure, and storytelling. From trekking to Machu Picchu with the first all-female team to exploring the Salkantay Trail. Jennifer reflects on the lessons learned, the importance of betting on yourself, and how travel can transform your life. This episode is packed with insights on resilience, the power of personal reinvention, and the joy of living authentically.

The Building Texas Show: The Impact and Future of the GVTC Foundation with Sonia Aguillon

In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie welcomes back Sonia Aguillon from the GVTC Foundation. They discuss the vital role that cooperatives play in rural areas, the history and contributions of Guadalupe Valley Telephone Cooperative, and the profound impact of their foundation's philanthropic efforts. Tune in to learn about the foundations of cooperatives, and how they provide essential services like high-speed internet and telecommunications to rural Texas. Discover how the GVTC Foundation supports local communities through impactful programs, matching donations, and volunteer efforts. If you're new to Texas or curious about the cooperative model, this episode is a must-listen! 

🚀 Boerne Little League’s Journey to the 2024 Little League World Series

This episode of The Building Texas Show celebrates the recent success of Boerne Little League's trip to the 2024 Little League World Series. Justin McKenzie sits down with Chris Carey, President of the league, to talk about what it takes to build a thriving youth sports program. They explore the challenges of running a league with nearly 1,000 participants, discuss the importance of building community through baseball, and highlight the league's focus on inclusivity and player development through a Positive Coaching Alliance.

Carey shares insights into the economic benefits of youth sports for the local community, touching on the relationship between Boerne Little League and the city, and the need for more fields and facilities. This episode serves as both an inspiration for other leagues and a call to action for business leaders, parents, and volunteers to support youth sports. Whether it's through coaching, sponsorship, or simply advocating for improved facilities, everyone has a role in creating a positive environment for young athletes.

The Building Texas Show - Assemble Cocktail: Crafting Experiences and Scaling Success

In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Lillian Oler, founder of Assemble Cocktail Workshop, to discuss her entrepreneurial journey. Starting in 2021 in a small cottage in Boerne, Texas, Assemble Cocktail offers fun, interactive cocktail-making experiences for everything from corporate team-building to private events. Now, Lillian is taking the next step by franchising her business, emphasizing that it's not just about the drinks—it's about the connections and experiences shared by participants. With insights into her mobile setup, lessons from franchising, and plans to expand her brand, Lillian shares how she has built a scalable, innovative business. The conversation also delves into the entrepreneurial mindset, finding the balance between work and life, and why creating meaningful customer experiences is key to lasting success.

Tune in to learn how to go beyond the check and truly make a difference.

The Building Texas Show is growing thanks to our Sponsors, Partners, and YOU our wonderful listeners. Thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting The Building Texas Show.

Das GreenHaus

Building Texas Show

Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation

The Building Texas Show: Texas Space Commission, Brad Morrison

Welcome to The Building Texas Show

Guest: Texas Space Commissioner, Brad Morrison

Host:  Justin McKenzie

Brad Morrison of Boerne is the founder and CEO of Atlantis Industries, Inc., The Space Weather Company. He is also a partner at Donald Capital LLC, an Aerospace & Defense focused Investment Bank. Brad was recently appointed to the Board of Commissioners to the inaugural Texas Space Commission.

Beyond the Check: The True Meaning of Philanthropy with Gregg Muenster

In this episode of The Building Texas Show, we explore the multifaceted world of philanthropy with Gregg Muenster, Senior Philanthropic Advisor for Sendero Family Enterprise and Sendero Wealth Management. Gregg, who came out of retirement in 2017 after a 46-year career in education and financial services, established Sendero’s philanthropic division to bring sophisticated solutions to family and private foundation boards. Using strategic planning and education, Gregg helps create charitable plans that move beyond mission statements, putting the joy back into giving by building an infrastructure that supports family foundations.

Philanthropy is often seen as something reserved for the wealthy, but Gregg reveals that it’s much more than just financial donations. It encompasses time, talent, and treasure—each essential in making a meaningful impact. Gregg shares personal experiences, explaining how he and his wife contributed to their community early in their marriage through time and talent, not money. These contributions are especially crucial in smaller, rural communities where resources are limited.

Gregg then discusses the challenges nonprofits face in these smaller towns, where finding volunteers and skilled board members can be tough. He stresses the importance of balancing time, talent, and treasure to create successful nonprofits. Gregg compares nonprofit leaders to entrepreneurs, highlighting the passion and perseverance required to run a nonprofit, along with added constraints like governance and the need to inspire volunteers and donors continuously.

With decades of experience in the banking and investment management industries, Gregg brings a deep understanding of nonprofit organizations and donors. He emphasizes the importance of board diversity and development, advocating for board members with diverse experiences and the need for proper training to ensure effective governance.

Gregg's insights into legacy planning are particularly impactful. He explains how families can pass down philanthropic values through structured planning, ensuring that future generations uphold and adapt these values. Gregg, a natural teacher, enjoys coaching young board members as they step into their family foundations, preparing them to contribute meaningfully.

Philanthropy, Gregg argues, is a mindset—a commitment to making a positive impact, regardless of scale. This mindset shift is crucial for building a sustainable culture of giving within families and communities. Gregg also offers actionable advice for nonprofits, especially those in rural areas, emphasizing the power of effective storytelling to attract donors and volunteers.

This episode provides a deeper understanding of philanthropy and how individuals and nonprofits can contribute to their communities meaningfully. Whether you're looking to give back or engage more effectively with your community, this conversation with Gregg Muenster offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Tune in to learn how to go beyond the check and truly make a difference.

The Building Texas Show is growing thanks to our Sponsors, Partners, and YOU our wonderful listeners. Thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting The Building Texas Show.

Das GreenHaus

Building Texas Show

Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation

The Building Texas Show: Main Street Retail, J. Forks

Welcome to The Building Texas Show

Guest: Jenny and Hallie Forks, J.Forks Designs

Host:  Justin McKenzie

Jenny and Hallie Forks, a mom and daughter duo you may recognize from  J.Forks Designs in Boerne, Texas. Jenny sits down with me this week to share her 25 year journey in retail and jewelry design. Jenny has had retail stores in rural, urban, and wholesale options across the country giving her an informed perspective in today's economy. We talk about the importance of shopping local and what it really means to your Main Street businesses in your hometown. Enjoy the show then go shopping at J. Forks Designs!

The Building Texas Show is growing thanks to our Sponsors, Partners, and YOU our wonderful listeners. Thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting The Building Texas Show.

Das GreenHaus

Building Texas Show

Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation

 

The Building Texas Show: Visit Boerne, Larry Woods

Welcome to The Building Texas Show,

Guest: Larry Woods, Director of Visit Boerne

Host:  Justin McKenzie

Larry Woods sits down with us this week to talk about Tourism! As the Director of Visit Boerne, and the current chair of the Texas Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus, Larry has seen tourism create a bright future in Texas.

The Building Texas Show is growing thanks to our Sponsors, Partners, and YOU our wonderful listeners. Thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting The Building Texas Show.

Das GreenHaus

Building Texas Show

Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation