Gone to Texas

"Super" Dave Quinn visits Arnis and Mallory Robbins of Evie Mae’s Barbecue to discuss the evolution of their business. The conversation covers the transition they made from their landscaping business in Arizona to starting a barbecue business in Texas. They share the challenges of starting from scratch, building their own equipment, and the realities of running a small food business. The story unfolds from their early days selling barbecue on the side of the road to eventually establishing a destination restaurant in Wolfforth, Texas.

They talk about how community support and business-friendly policies in Wolfforth were crucial to their growth. Press coverage, like a key review from Daniel Vaughn of Texas Monthly, was a significant turning point, bringing immediate attention and boosting their customer base. The discussion also includes practical advice for entrepreneurs, the unique benefits of small-town business culture, the role of local partnerships, and the importance of perseverance.

Chapter:
04:07 – Building the first smoker and first cooks
10:23 – Launching the first food trailer
13:03 – Transitioning barbecue from hobby to side business
18:03 – Food truck operations and selling barbecue
23:12 – Moving to Texas and choosing Wolfforth
26:14 – Licensing and early days in Wolfforth
31:53 – Facing business challenges, Daniel Vaughn visit
34:44 – The Texas Monthly review and the business turnaround
38:07 – Scaling up and offers for brick-and-mortar
41:58 – Staying loyal to Wolfforth
43:48 – Community support and impact
47:38 – Comparing support in Texas vs Florida
52:10 – Advice for new entrepreneurs
56:03 – Running a family business and dividing roles


Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

Dave sits down with Jason McCann, co-founder and CEO of Vari, for an in-depth look at how a simple idea of solving workplace back pain became a catalyst for workspace innovation on a global scale.  They discuss the origins of Vari (formerly Varidesk), detailing the company’s pivot moments, including its major rebranding and its rapid adaptation during the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed the business not only to survive but thrive. The conversation also explores the advantages of building a business in Texas, the significance of company culture, and the human element behind business decisions and growth.

They also talk about the entrepreneurial mindset that fueled Vari’s explosive growth, the flexibility and community spirit found in Texas, and the continuously evolving vision for the workspace of the future. Jason offers advice on navigating local market challenges, leveraging economic development resources, and designing agile work environments, also sharing anecdotes about product innovation and the role of feedback in shaping their ever-expanding portfolio.


Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

"Super" Dave continues the conversation about Kilgore, talking to Tanya Johnson, HR Manager at Camfil. They discuss the company's growth in Kilgore, Texas, and she shares her background in HR and how she was recruited to join Camfil during its expansion, emphasizing the excitement and opportunities that come with building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
Tanya talks about Camfil's global reach as a manufacturer of premium clean air solutions and the positive impact this work has for both the environment and local employees.

The conversation also explores why Kilgore is a strong location for advanced manufacturing, citing its skilled workforce, strategic location, business parks, and strong support from the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation. Tanya Johnson explains the sense of community in Kilgore and how it contributed to her decision to not just work but also live there. 

Key Topics Discussed:

• Camfil’s global impact and advanced manufacturing in Kilgore
• The importance of clean air solutions for people and the environment
• Kilgore’s skilled workforce and business environment
• The role of the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation in supporting growth
• Community life and quality of living in Kilgore
• Recommended restaurants in Kilgore

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

The Kilgore series continues with Brandon Balcon, Dean of Public Services and Industrial Technologies at Kilgore College, who discusses workforce development in East Texas and the role Kilgore College plays in preparing students for high-demand careers. The conversation covers a variety of training programs, including customized on-site training for local industries, continuing education certificates, and dual-credit options for high school students. Brandon explains how the college collaborates with industry partners through advisory committees to ensure its programs remain relevant and responsive to regional employment needs.

They also talk about Kilgore College’s partnerships, such as the Texas Mutual Insurance Grant and work with the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation, which help provide free or subsidized safety training to local businesses. Brandon describes the importance of engaging local business owners, expanding manufacturing and apprenticeship opportunities, and giving students practical experience through internships and cooperative education. certifications 

Key Topics Discussed:

• Kilgore College’s role in regional workforce development
• Industry and education partnerships, including advisory committees
• High-demand training programs (CDL, lineman, welding, public safety)
• Customized and on-site workforce training for businesses
• Dual credit programs in partnership with local high schools
• Grant programs such as the Texas Mutual Insurance Grant for safety training
• The impact of House Bill 8 on dual credit tuition
• Growth in apprenticeships and practical workforce experience
• Advice for business owners looking to relocate or expand in Kilgore
• Kilgore’s geographic reach and community appeal

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

Our Kilgore Spotlight continues with "Super" Dave sitting down with Ricardo Viloria, a dynamic entrepreneur whose journey from Venezuela to East Texas illustrates the power of community, opportunity, and resilience. Ricardo shares his compelling story of relocating his business from South America to the United States, ultimately choosing Kilgore, Texas, after evaluating cities across multiple states.

From navigating cultural shifts and economic shocks to building new ventures and raising a family, Ricardo talks about how Kilgore’s welcoming environment, supportive business community, and collaborative partnerships made all the difference in his success. You'll hear about working with the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore College, the value of local relationships, and how the unique culture of Kilgore continues to attract and inspire entrepreneurs seeking a place to grow. Whether you're interested in stories of starting over, insights on doing business in Texas, or the importance of community in business growth, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for the next generation of business leaders.


Key Topics Discussed:

• Moving a business from Venezuela to Texas
• Site selection process and choosing Kilgore
• Early business challenges and adapting to local culture
• Effects of 9/11 on business operations
• Building a family and staying in Kilgore post-exit
• Entrepreneurship and community support in Kilgore
• Collaboration with Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore College
• Workforce training and education partnerships
• Kilgore’s culture and impact on daily life
• Observations on Kilgore’s growth and future opportunities
• Personal anecdotes about business and community experiences

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

"Super" Dave sits down with Tyler Esters, plant manager at CSI in Kilgore, Texas. Tyler shares the story of CSI’s growth as a global leader in bottle cap manufacturing, producing around 30 million caps daily at their Kilgore location. He explains how strategic local partnerships—including Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore College—have played a major role in sourcing skilled talent and solving operational challenges efficiently.

The conversation covers CSI’s journey from its roots in Shreveport to becoming part of a larger corporate structure, and how these changes have balanced safety, innovation, and operational flexibility. Tyler gives insight into the company's culture, emphasizing the value of quick-response local support, a stable workforce, and a hands-on approach to management. The episode wraps up with future ambitions for CSI, their commitment to sustainability and efficiency, and some favorite spots to eat in Kilgore.

Key Topics Discussed:

• CSI’s manufacturing and production scale
• Local partnerships and community support
• Global operations and logistics
• Sourcing materials and Texas infrastructure
• Workforce development with colleges
• Corporate culture vs local management
• Sustainability and efficiency in manufacturing
• Employee progression and compensation
• Operational challenges and solutions
• Community and company culture
• Customer relationships
• Future plans for CSI
• Kilgore local business recommendations

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

Kori Bowen, Vice President of Industrial Relations at Texas State Technical College (TSTC), joins "Super" Dave Quinn to explain how TSTC is fueling the Texas economy by connecting businesses with workforce-ready technicians. They discuss the college’s unique pay-for-placement funding model, emphasizing TSTC’s focus on high-demand, high-placement technical careers and direct industry engagement. The conversation illustrates how TSTC actively builds partnerships with both large and small businesses, tailoring training and education programs to meet immediate and long-term workforce needs.

They also talk about how the college's statewide presence and its flexible, hands-on approach to training, ensuring consistency across regions while adapting to local economic needs. She also shares examples of grant opportunities, such as soft skills and leadership training, available to all Texas businesses regardless of size. Throughout the episode, the collaboration between TSTC, local economic development councils, and industry stands out as a key factor in supporting Texas' booming job market and helping businesses grow successfully across the state.

Key Topics Discussed:

• TSTC’s unique funding based on student job placement
• Customized training and partnerships with Texas industries
• Support for both large corporations and small businesses
• Soft skills and leadership training grants
• Statewide campus coordination and local leadership
• Importance of early engagement with local economic developers
• Advice for business owners moving to or expanding in Texas
• Practical, real-world preparation for technical careers

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

In this episode of Gone to Texas, "Super" Dave Quinn talks with Alan Clipperton, Vice President for Global Initiatives and Industry Engagement at LeTourneau University. Alan shares how the university supports industry in East Texas through technical education, hands-on projects, and workforce development. He breaks down how LeTourneau partners with local businesses for applied learning and senior design projects, giving students practical experience while addressing real-world business challenges. The conversation also covers the process of moving university-driven intellectual property from ideas to commercial ventures, and the timelines and complexities involved.

The discussion highlights the importance of personal motivation alongside technical skills, reflecting on changes in the workforce, and the evolving role of technology and automation in education and industry. Alan outlines ways businesses can engage with LeTourneau to find solutions for their workforce or technical needs and points out how the university’s approach aligns with the diverse industries in the Kilgore area. The episode wraps up with the significance of building closer relationships between the university, the economic development corporations, and local businesses to leverage regional growth and talent development. 

Key Topics Discussed:

• LeTourneau University’s role in supporting local industry
• Partnering with businesses through education, applied learning, and senior design projects
• Managing intellectual property and entrepreneurship at the university
• The impact of work ethic and motivation in workforce development
• Adapting to rapid industry changes and new technologies
• Collaboration with Kilgore Economic Development Corporation
• Opportunities for businesses to connect with LeTourneau for workforce and technical needs

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

In this episode of Gone to Texas, "Super" Dave Quinn sits down with Brit Blacklidge, President of Blacklidge, a fourth-generation family-owned asphalt materials company. Brit shares the history of the company, how he stepped into a leadership role at a young age, and the challenges and rewards of running a family business. He speaks candidly about the realities of work-life balance, the importance of assembling a strong team, and how faith and resilience are crucial to his business journey.

The conversation shifts to Blacklidge’s expansion into Texas, including why they chose Fairfield as their newest location. Brit breaks down the process of relocating a business to Texas, his experience partnering with the Fairfield Economic Development Corporation, and the practical challenges such as workforce and housing shortages. The episode also touches on what Always the Better Road means for Blacklidge, emphasizing a commitment to quality and reliability in their products and workplace culture. Brit closes with advice for business owners considering Texas, highlighting the state’s business-friendly attitude and the supportive community he’s found in Fairfield.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The family history and background of Blacklidge
• Challenges and rewards of running a family business
• The realities of work-life balance for business owners
• Why Blacklidge expanded to Texas and why they chose Fairfield
• Navigating local partnerships and economic development support
• Overcoming practical challenges like workforce and housing shortages
• Company values: quality, reliability, and the meaning of "Always the Better Road"
• The importance of company culture and employee empowerment
• The Texas business environment and support for new businesses
• Recommendations for policymakers on workforce and trade education
• Local insights and what makes Fairfield stand out

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

"Super" Dave sits down with Paula Phillips, a nationally certified occupational therapist and founder of Calibrating Lyfe, to discuss the importance of proactive health strategies for business owners and employees. Drawing on her extensive experience in hospitals and rehabilitation centers, Paula talks about the gaps in traditional rehabilitation systems and shares how her approach as a quality of life consultant helps individuals and organizations plan for wellness before illness or injury strikes.

The conversation explores practical daily habits, the value of baseline health awareness, and the unique advantages of living and operating a wellness-focused business in Fairview, Texas. Dave and Paula also talk about how quality of life consulting provides actionable strategies for managing health risks and transitions, and how businesses benefit from supporting employee wellness. Paula talks about the supportive community in Fairview, her motivation behind founding Calibrating Life, and advice for entrepreneurs considering relocation to Texas.

To find out more about Paula, visit: https://calibratinglyfe.com/

Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com