Leading Lubbock

In this episode, Ruben sits down with Jef Conn—commercial broker, past chairman of Texas REALTORS®, and systems-minded leader—for a masterclass in intentional leadership. Jef shares how a simple “yes” to getting involved opened doors to statewide influence, how to create organized chaos to build systems that last, and why thinking bigger starts with changing how you talk to yourself. From thank-you cards to national impact, Jef’s story is packed with practical wisdom, real-life discipline, and a few solid laughs along the way.

This one is for the doers, the dreamers, and anyone who knows they’re capable of more—but needs a nudge on how to get there.

In this powerful episode, Holly Betenbough shares her deeply personal journey of co-founding Betenbough Homes alongside her late husband Rick, and how heartbreak, humility, and faith reshaped her understanding of leadership. From publicly walking through family struggles to building a workplace culture rooted in kingdom values, Holly speaks with authenticity about what it means to lead from identity, not insecurity. We talk about raising leaders, letting go of fear, living out of purpose, and the beauty of being fully present in people’s lives. This one is rich with wisdom, grace, and redemption.

Jackson Lindgren—home inspector, husband, and father—joins the show for a raw and thoughtful conversation on what it really means to lead in everyday life. From navigating hard conversations in business to instigating change at home, Jackson shares how responsibility, consistency, and humility have shaped his view of leadership.

We talk about parenting, faith, personal growth, and the power of showing up even when you don’t feel like it. Jackson also shares the books that have formed his mindset, including a powerful breakdown of Amusing Ourselves to Death, and leaves us with a definition of leadership you won’t forget.

Whether you’re in a season of growth or trying to get back on track, this episode offers perspective, challenge, and encouragement.

In this episode of Leading Lubbock, I sit down with Kalee Rich—wife, mom of three, and Sales Director at Betenbough Homes—for a conversation full of wisdom, warmth, and practical leadership insight. Kalee shares how her view of leadership has transformed over time, why loving correction matters, and how prayer, presence, and attentiveness shape how she leads both at work and at home. We talk about what it means to steward people with care, the challenges of saying no, and why slowing down to hear from the Lord is one of the most powerful things a leader can do. Plus, we dive into Sacred Pace, her favorite book right now, and why its message is so timely for today’s leaders.

Rich Eberhardt has spent nearly three decades shaping the Lubbock real estate community—not just through transactions, but through leadership, mentorship, and service. In this episode, Rich shares the lessons that have guided him: from learning to listen before leading, to the importance of team decision-making, and how humility changes everything. We talk real estate then and now, how to stay steady through seasons of change, and what it really means to lead well. Whether you’re in the business or just navigating leadership in your own life, this conversation is packed with wisdom and warmth.

What does it mean to lead without putting on a mask? In this episode, mortgage lender and soon-to-be mom Whitney Chaney shares how she shows up as the same person—at home, at work, and with clients—by staying rooted in character and adapting with intention.

We talk about the power of having a personal board of directors, how tough love and self-awareness shape leadership, and why time blocking isn’t just about productivity—it’s how you protect what matters most.

Whitney’s blend of honesty, structure, and humility makes this conversation both practical and deeply encouraging for anyone trying to lead with purpose in every area of life.

What does it mean to lead with strength, humility, and trust in others? In this episode, we sit down with Michelle McCord, Superintendent of Frenship ISD, to explore a leadership journey rooted in servant-hearted influence and grounded faith. Michelle shares lessons from over a decade of leading a fast-growing school district, the power of empowering others, the loneliness that can come with leadership, and why “letting go of the pieces” might be the most important shift leaders can make.

We talk about the difference between being alone and being lonely, why gentleness is a radical act in a culture of outrage, and how biblical truths and sticky-noted pages continue to anchor her through the highs and lows of leadership.

Audra Baldwin wears many hats—wife, mom of four, real estate agent, growth advisor, and leveraged agent coach. But at the core of all she does is one driving mission: to love people well. In this episode, Audra and I talk about servant leadership, calling out the greatness in others, and the power of asking good questions.

We also dive into practical rhythms—like time blocking, personal growth, and balancing ambition with family. Her perspective on identity, purpose, and living in your sweet spot will leave you both grounded and inspired.

Whether you’re building a business, raising a family, or figuring out your next step, this conversation is a reminder that you’re made for more—and that leading well starts with being fully yourself.

In this episode of Leading Lubbock, we sit down with Mackenzie Dean — Director of Worship and Production at Redeemer Church — for a conversation that’s as grounded as it is inspiring. Mackenzie opens up about her journey from proving herself in leadership to learning how to lead with clarity, humility, and purpose.

She shares powerful insights on embracing your strengths, letting go of comparison, and leading others by building a culture of intentionality. From the stage to behind the scenes, Mackenzie’s perspective is honest, wise, and refreshingly real.

Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or just figuring out your next step — this one will hit home.

In this episode of Leading Lubbock, Dr. Amy Thompson, Chief Executive of Covenant Health’s Lubbock Service Area, joins Ruben for a powerful conversation about leadership that’s honest, humble, and deeply personal.

Amy shares her journey from pediatric medicine to executive leadership, reflecting on moments when she felt completely unprepared—and how those exact moments became the ones that shaped her most. She talks about building culture through vulnerability, creating strong and balanced teams, and leading through crisis with conviction and faith.

You’ll also hear the story of how she and her husband, Dusty, stepped into unexpected parenthood early in their marriage, raising his younger brother through one of the most formative seasons of their lives.

Whether you’re in the boardroom or the locker room, this episode is full of insight on what it means to lead well, love deeply, and grow through challenge.