Rock Solid: Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast

At just 18, this young entrepreneur has already built a thriving printing and promotional products business—starting with selling stickers at school and growing into Piranha Printing, a full-service custom printing company.

In this Rock Solid Podcast episode, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with the founder of Piranha Printing to talk about:

• Getting started at the Children’s Business Fair

• How he landed the gig printing shirts for the fair

• Lessons learned from years of running his own company

• Balancing business with school

• Expanding into new products, design services, and more

• Big future goals, including a brick-and-mortar shop

From secret side hustle to a fully-fledged business, this is an inspiring look at what’s possible when you combine creativity, persistence, and entrepreneurial drive.

📍 Learn more about Piranha Printing: https://piranhaprinting.com

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

When Jessica Scanlon came up with the name Hot Dog Marketing, it was inspired by her dachshunds—little did she know it would grow into one of Central Texas’s most recognized marketing agencies. In this episode of Rock Solid, Jessica joins Bryan Eisenberg to share how she built her business from a freelance hustle in 2008 to a thriving agency helping professional services, government contractors, and public entities.

We dive into:

• The story behind the quirky agency name

• Building a woman-owned business in a male-dominated space

• The power of female collaboration in Round Rock

• Navigating the rapid rise of AI in marketing

• Why we’re in a “memory generation” era, not just lead generation

• Lessons from marketing “boring” industries—like ports!

• Her love for Round Rock, favorite hangouts, and shoutouts to local gems

Plus, find out why the City of Round Rock’s social media team is one of the best in the country and how Jessica’s team is using AI to redefine strategy and content creation.

📍 Learn more: https://hotdogmarketing.com

🔗 Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicascanlon

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Texas State University’s Round Rock campus is more than just a place for degrees — it’s helping fuel entrepreneurship, workforce readiness, and the growth of Central Texas.

In this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Julie Lessiter, Vice President of Texas State University Round Rock Campus, to talk about:

• How the campus partnered with the Round Rock Chamber for Startup Day & Pitch Competition

• Plans for a new business incubator to support local startups

• Expanding degree programs, including 18 undergraduate and 11 graduate offerings

• The importance of workforce-driven education (not just academics for academics’ sake)

• How AI, critical thinking, and industry partnerships are reshaping higher education

• Affordable healthcare clinics offered through the campus

• Big plans for reaching 10,000 students — including an upcoming aviation program

Julie also shares her passion for first-generation college students, her favorite spots around Round Rock, and why Texas State Round Rock is quickly becoming a hub for the region.

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Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this heartfelt episode of Rock Solid: The Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Clarena Tobon, Executive Director of NAMI Central Texas, to discuss breaking the stigma around mental health. Clarena shares her deeply personal journey—from caring for her mother through mental illness and loss to finding healing in support groups—and how it led her to champion mental health education, advocacy, and support for Central Texas families.

Discover how NAMI Central Texas helps families, teachers, and workplaces through free support groups, education, and community programs. Learn how to spot early signs of anxiety and depression in teens, start open conversations, and access vital resources before a crisis hits.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply someone who wants to better understand mental health, this episode is full of insights on building compassion, connection, and a healthier community.

Connect with NAMI Central Texas: https://namicentraltx.org

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer, and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock-based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state-of-the-art photo studio.

Bill Gravell's story is the definition of Texas grit and heart. In this episode of Rock Solid, we sit down with the former Williamson County Judge and current SBA Regional Advocate to hear how a kid who grew up playing baseball in Round Rock fields became a leader through natural disasters, a global pandemic, and into the halls of the White House.Bill shares unforgettable stories of community resilience, why Texans show up before FEMA does, and how small businesses are truly the heartbeat of America. From founding local relief programs like Wilco Forward to now representing five states in Washington, D.C., Bill’s insights on leadership, service, and legacy are not to be missed.🎙️ Highlights:Growing up in 1970s Round RockLeading through floods, tornadoes, and mass tragedy as County JudgeBuilding small business support systems from scratchRepresenting Texas values in the federal governmentThe economic explosion of Williamson County📬 Contact Bill: [email protected] Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Join host Bryan Eisenberg as he sits down with K. LaFleur-Anders, founder of Coffee Milk Media and co-creator of the Impact Alliance, to explore the powerful intersection of storytelling, social change, and entrepreneurship in Round Rock.In this inspiring and emotional conversation, K. shares her journey from corporate life at Dell to launching multiple mission-driven ventures, including TEDx Round Rock Women, Chestnut Publishing House, and impactful film events that spotlight real issues affecting women and youth. Learn how her passion for intentional storytelling drives everything she does—from empowering women through community events to addressing literacy and VC funding disparities.Key topics covered:• How Impact Alliance is reshaping women's empowerment with real tools and support• The vision and challenge of launching TEDx Round Rock Women• Why K. believes storytelling must lead to real-world impact• The reality of entrepreneurship after corporate life• Lessons in resilience, delegation, and mental wellness• Coffee Milk Media’s mission in documentary storytelling• Screening “Show Me the Money” to spotlight VC bias• Hosting “Right to Read” with United Way and its lasting impact• Systems, burnout, and the importance of intentional leadership• How one woman’s tears made all the effort worth itDiscover why K. says “entrepreneurship is a mirror” and how she’s using that reflection to empower others to lead, heal, and grow.Connect with K. LaFleur-Anders:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/k-lafleur-andersCoffee Milk Media: https://www.coffeemilkmedia.comRock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Join host Bryan Eisenberg as he sits down with two special guests from the Small Business Administration: Lisa Shimcat, who oversees operations for all 68 SBA district offices nationwide, and Chip Bishop, Chief Counsel for Advocacy focusing on federal deregulation for small businesses.In this eye-opening conversation, discover the full scope of SBA resources beyond just loans, including manufacturing support, export assistance, and the fight against regulatory burdens that cost small businesses billions. Lisa shares insights from touring 22 states and connecting with hundreds of businesses, while Chip reveals how his office just rolled back $47 billion in regulatory costs with a single rule change.Key topics covered:• SBA's comprehensive loan programs including 7A, 504, and working capital pilot programs• How the Office of Advocacy represents 36 million small businesses in federal regulatory processes• Real examples of regulatory relief, including the beneficial ownership rule that saved businesses $8,000 each• Why Round Rock and Williamson County's collaborative approach creates business success• The role of AI in manufacturing, regulation analysis, and small business growth• Cross-agency partnerships breaking down government silos to better serve entrepreneurs• The new Red Tape Hotline (redtapesba.gov) for reporting regulatory pain points• Manufacturing trends, onshoring opportunities, and workforce development needs• How 99% of manufacturers are actually small businesses driving innovation for large corporationsDiscover why two-thirds of new jobs start in small businesses and how the SBA's 68 district offices nationwide are working to ensure America's 36 million small businesses have the support they need to succeed.Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Join host Bryan Eisenberg as he sits down with Kevin Koym, founder of Tech Ranch, to explore the intersection of community building and entrepreneurship in Round Rock and beyond.

In this deep conversation, Kevin shares his unique approach to "campfire networking" and how building social capital often matters more than financial capital for early-stage entrepreneurs. From his early days working with Steve Jobs at Next Computer to building Dell's e-commerce platform from his living room, Kevin brings decades of experience helping entrepreneurs navigate the lonely journey of building businesses.

Key topics covered:

• The power of campfire networking for entrepreneur community building

• Why social capital beats financial capital in early-stage ventures

• Lessons learned working with Steve Jobs at Next Computer

• Building Dell's $2 billion e-commerce engine from a living room

• Tech Ranch's global impact connecting solutions to problems worldwide

• Meditation and resilience practices for entrepreneur mental health

• How Williamson County's pioneer history influences modern entrepreneurship

• The importance of community support in Austin's entrepreneurial ecosystem

• Practical nervous system regulation techniques for business leaders

• Local Round Rock and Georgetown resources for entrepreneur wellness

Discover how Kevin has spoken to over 100,000 entrepreneurs across 22 countries, spreading the message that "all the world's problems have already been solved - it's just a matter of connecting the entrepreneur with the solution to the market with the problem."

Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkoym

Tech Ranch: https://techranchaustin.com

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Will Peckham, a longtime Round Rock community leader and former city council member who has dedicated his life to making Round Rock a better place to live, work, and play.

In this episode, we explore Will's journey from Rhode Island to Round Rock in 1983, his family's decision to plant roots in what was then a sleepy college town, and how he became deeply involved in community leadership through organizations like Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Ascend program.

Key Topics Covered:

• Will's family journey from Rhode Island to Round Rock in 1983

• The transformation of Round Rock from bedroom community to thriving city

• The impact of Dell's arrival and strategic community planning

• Leadership development through Rotary and Chamber programs

• The Ascend program and developing young professionals

• Day-to-day life as a city council member

• The collaborative spirit that makes Round Rock special

• Will's transition to the insurance industry with Watkins Insurance Group

• Why Round Rock Donuts really deserve their top 100 ranking

• Creating a community where families want to stay for generations

Will shares candid insights about the visionary leaders who shaped Round Rock, the importance of service organizations, and how a "we" mentality rather than "I" mentality has driven the community's success. From failed ballot initiatives that became learning experiences to the development of iconic community assets, this conversation reveals the behind-the-scenes work that has made Round Rock the Sports Capital of Texas and a model for community development.

Will Peckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-peckham-cic-crm-28430a128

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Nicholle Walton-Durban, founder and "edupreneur" behind E.S.T.E.A.M Academy - a revolutionary approach to education that's transforming how kids learn in Round Rock, Texas.

Key Topics Covered:

• What it means to be an "edupreneur" and why education needs disruption
• The journey from opening a film school for kids to creating multiple micro schools
• How E.S.T.E.A.M Academy uses Socratic guides instead of traditional teachers
• Why failure should be embraced as a learning tool, not feared
• The magic of learner-led, democratic educational environments
• Creating real-world entrepreneurial experiences through the Children's Business Fair
• Building critical thinking and independent learning skills from age 4
• How Round Rock's innovative culture supports educational entrepreneurs
• The difference between teaching and empowering natural curiosity
• Preparing kids for life by letting them live it now, not later

Nicholle shares her philosophy that kids are born learners who thrive when given tools, time, and trust - but not rescue. From 4-year-olds to teenagers, her students learn to set goals, face challenges, and develop the entrepreneurial mindset that serves them in any career path.

Whether you're a parent questioning traditional education, an educator seeking innovation, or an entrepreneur inspired by bold thinking, this conversation offers practical insights into creating empowered learning environments.

http://www.esteamacademy.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholle-walton-durban

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.