In this episode, Host Jason Lee and Co-Host Zeke Smith sit down with Brandon Kinsey, Co-Founder of Kinsey Management, to explore how AI is reshaping talent acquisition and how organizations can stay adaptable in times of rapid change. Brandon shares practical insights on building agile cultures, preparing leaders for the future, and developing the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven workplace.

He also discusses the rollout of updated workplace psychology software and upcoming AI enhancements, along with the milestone of achieving Elite Predictive Index Partner status and surpassing 100 active clients.

Brandon reflects on the role his faith, family, and education at Texas A&M University have played in his journey.

A powerful conversation on leadership, growth, and preparing for the future of work.

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Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

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In this special edition of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Chad Burke talks with Sharon Hulgan, Lead Site Manufacturing Director at Dow / Director, Board of Directors GCPD & Coalter Baker, Executive Director GCPD. They discuss the Coastal Texas Project, a historic effort to protect the Galveston Bay region and Houston Ship Channel from catastrophic storm surge.

After Ike and Harvey, the message is clear: it’s not IF another major storm hits, it’s WHEN. With new federal funding secured and engineering design underway for the Bolivar Roads gate system and expanded beach & dune barriers, momentum is building.

This project safeguards lives, industry, and a region that powers America’s economy.

Follow the Gulf Coast Protection District & help advocate for this highly needed project, safeguarding our region, its people, its future and our nation!

𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐇𝐮𝐥𝐠𝐚𝐧: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-hulgan-11425717/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Host Zeke Smith sit down with Dani Grant to talk about the upcoming EHCMA Golf Tournament benefiting Dream It. Do It. Southeast Texas. She tells us how the tournament supports workforce scholarships, connects industry leaders, and why now is the time to register a team, become a sponsor, volunteer, and donate. Don’t miss how you can be part of an event that builds opportunities for students while strengthening our Southeast Texas industry community.

Take part in the growth at the EHCMA Golf Tournament here: https://birdease.com/ehcmagolf

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1

Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

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In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, hosts Jason Lee and Zeke Smith sit down with Tara Wilson, Founder of Eventsia Group and Vice Chair of Industry Outreach for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Industrial Craft Competition (ICC). Tara shares how the ICC is building a powerful pipeline into the industrial construction industry through hands-on, project-based training in fabrication, safety, project management, and more—impacting over 2,400 students and helping place 50+ students into industry jobs each year.

We also explore how industry leaders can get involved through mentoring, judging, and sponsorship, plus a look ahead at the 21 student team projects on display during the Rodeo (March 2–22 at NRG) and the ICC Live Competition on April 18 at Texas State Technical College in Rosenberg. Tara wraps up by reflecting on leadership, mentorship, career growth, and a proud personal milestone as her kids step into their own paths.

Reach out today to help support this great competition:

Tara Wilson | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taraw/

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/houston-livestock-show-and-rodeo/posts/?feedView=all

Industrial Craft Competition | Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo https://www.rodeohouston.com/exhibitors-contestants/industrial-craft-competition/

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1

Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

Speaker Suggestions:

Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/

Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/

Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

Commissioner Adrian Garcia of Harris County Precinct 2 joins Chad Burke, President & CEO of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, for the first Gulf Coast Growth Show of 2026. Together, they reflect on a milestone 2025 and look ahead to the transformative infrastructure, partnerships, and investments shaping the future of Precinct 2 and the greater Houston Port Region.

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Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode!

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In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, host Zeke Smith welcomes back MaryJane. She shares updates on the relaunch of the CAER App, industry led safety initiatives, membership growth, and what’s ahead for 2026. A great conversation on transparency, community engagement, and the future of manufacturing along the Gulf Coast.

Contact MaryJane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjmudd/

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Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode!

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In this episode of the Gulf Coast Girls Show, Zeke Smith sits down with Tammie Nielsen, Advancement Director for New Beginnings Sarah’s House. Tammy shares her personal journey, the mission of Sarah’s House, and how they support homeless women, families, and survivors of domestic violence. She also discusses their growing community services, upcoming Murder Mystery Dinner fundraiser, and why one of their top priorities is partnering with local industry to expand impact.

Learn how you or your company can get involved, volunteer, or become an industry partner to support this vital work in our community.

Get involved today: https://sarahshouse.org/

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Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode!

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Join us on the Gulf Coast Growth Show as Host Zeke Smith, Director, Marketing & Workforce Development, Apache Industrial sits down with Willie Wells, President & CEO of Industry Business Roundtable (IBR), and Blair Williamson, Director of Talent Development, Austin Industrial to discuss workforce development, industry collaboration, and addressing the skilled labor shortage. Learn how owners, contractors, and community partners are coming together to build the next generation of craft professionals.

Reach out to get involved or for more info:

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Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode!

Speaker Suggestions:

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, host Chad Burke, President & CEO of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, sits down with Earl Hirsch, founder of No More Carbon USA. Earl shares how his company is helping fleets and industries extend engine life, cut fuel costs, and reduce emissions—all while finding creative ways (like bacon!) to build relationships and grow business. Tune in for a conversation about innovation, efficiency, and the power of genuine connection.

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1

Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial.

Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode!

Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/

Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/

Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Chad Burke sits down with David Ellis, President of Packwell. David shares his career journey and how Packwell has become a leader in resin packaging and exports, supporting global trade through the Houston Port Region. They dive into the company’s commitment to safety, innovation, and workforce development, along with the exciting growth projects shaping Packwell’s future.

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1

Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial.

Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode!

Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/

Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/

Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/