ATX Ahead

This podcast explores the future of Austin, and the challenges we face. There's no question we're experiencing growing pains. But at the same time, Austin is looking ahead to the future, the next generation and making bold bets to make our city, and our region better for all. In this episode, ABJ's Will Anderson explores the powerful partnership between MD Anderson Cancer Center and The University of Texas at Austin.

Guests:
James B. Milliken, Chancellor, The University of Texas System
Jay Hartzell, President, University of Texas Austin
Dr. Claudia Lucchinetti, Dean, Dell Medical School

Rising rates, a housing crunch, and commercial real estate concerns have put the brakes on the exponential growth we've experienced over the past decade. Are we done, or is this just a pause prior to another era of expansion? To find out, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson calls on Ed Latson, CEO of the Austin Regional Manufacturers Association, who will soon transition to the same leadership role with Opportunity Austin.

Our top story in August was the 2023 list of Austin's wealthiest zip codes, with some surprises we'll discuss. ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson shares his pick with Editor Colin Pope for the story that should've grabbed more attention. Plus, nominations are open for one of the favorite surveys of 2024. All of these topics have a direct impact on the future of Austin, and the challenges we face. Enjoy the episode!

If you're looking for another rehash of topics troubling our growing region- this ISN'T the podcast to download. In this episode, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson takes a fresh look at what may be the key to improving Austin's housing market. Will welcomes Greg Anderson (no relation) from the Austin Planning Commission.

Longtime locals including ABJ Editor Colin Pope have seen this coming for the past decade, and now it's a reality reflected in the rankings. In the respected U.S. News & World Report "Best Places to Live" rankings for 2023, Austin plummeted to 40th. Still the most desirable major metro in Texas, but no longer the darling of the survey. In this episode, Colin joins ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson to offer his unique perspective, and point to the two major issues that dragged our city down the rankings.

The influx of capital, both human and financial, has impacted the Austin-area. Higher home prices, longer commutes, and wait times for whatever you may want. But there has been a positive side to our growth in the philanthropic sector- more money is flowing to Austin charitable organizations. Led by Michael Dell's efforts, Austin is feeling a positive impact in giving. In this download, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson chats with Austin Community Foundation CEO Mike Nellis about the impact of the influx in Austin.

Austin's explosive growth over the past decade has put a serious strain on a limited transit system. Is a light rail system the answer, or a billion dollar boondoggle that nobody will ride? In this episode, ABJ Reporter Mike Christen invites Austin Transit Partnership Executive Director Greg Canally and EVP of Architecture & Urban Design Peter Mullan to discuss the merits and challenges of the ambitious and expensive project.

With the first full scale, post-pandemic South by Southwest in the books, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson connects with Assistant Managing Editor Paul Thompson and Austin Inno Editor Brent Wistrom to recap SXSW and the impact of Silicon Valley Bank's implosion that happened in real time at the event.

The tech reset is well documented, yet many Austin-area firms are still searching for talent. Is the worst still to come, or are we sheltered from the impacts of larger tech hubs like Silicon Valley & the Seattle-area.  In this episode, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson invites longtime Austin resident Thom Singer, CEO of the Austin Technology Council to offer his perspective.

With tech layoffs sweeping the industry and investment bankers calling a crash for Austin's residential real estate market,  we turn to our panel of local economic experts for perspective. In this episode, ABJ Editor Colin Pope leads a candid discussion with a trio of experts who don't pull any punches when it comes to the year ahead, and beyond:

Moderator:
Colin Pope | Editor, Austin Business Journal

Panelists:
Angelos Angelou | Founder & CEO, Angelou Economics & International Accelerator
Jon Hockenyos | President & Economist, TXP Inc.
Lila Valencia | City Demographer, City of Austin