In this exciting episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Norman Garza, the Executive Director of the Texas Space Commission, to discuss how Texas is leading the next era of space commercialization.

Recorded at YTexas in Garland, Texas, this episode unpacks how House Bill 3447 launched the Texas Space Commission, the state's $150 million investment in the commercial space industry, and the future of space exploration, workforce development, and innovation.

🌟 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

✅ Texas’ Growing Space Industry – The state is home to SpaceX, Blue Origin, Firefly Aerospace, Intuitive Machines, and 1,800+ space companies.

✅ Public-Private Partnerships – Why Texas is investing in commercial space stations, satellite manufacturing, and hypersonic technology.

✅ Workforce & Economic Development – How universities, trade schools, and businesses are preparing the next generation of space professionals.

✅ Rural Texas’ Role in Space – How Hondo, Kerrville, Midland, and other towns can capitalize on commercial space investment.

✅ Texas' Global Leadership – Why international investors and companies are choosing Texas as the epicenter for space innovation.

🚀 We also discuss how Texas is competing with California, Colorado, and Florida in the global space race, the impact of Firefly Aerospace’s lunar landing, and why space isn't just about rockets—it's about every aspect of our economy.

🔔 Watch Now and Join the Conversation on the Future of Space in Texas!

📲 Follow Norman Garza & The Texas Space Commission:

🌎 Website: space.texas.gov

🔔 Subscribe to The Building Texas Show for more episodes on Texas innovation, leadership, and economic growth!

#TexasBusiness #BuildingTexas #YTexas #SpaceEconomy #TexasSpaceCommission #FireflyAerospace #BlueOrigin #IntuitiveMachines #WorkforceDevelopment #EconomicDevelopment #FutureOfWork #SpaceX #PublicPrivatePartnerships #Innovation #Leadership #TexasPride

🌟 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

✅ The Story of Chateau Claire – How a historic home from 1914 became a thriving bed & breakfast.

✅ Preserving Texas History – Restoring original shiplap, hardwood floors, and historic architecture.

✅ A Unique Event Venue – Hosting weddings, tea parties, family gatherings, and more.

✅ Ties to WWII & Hondo’s Aviation History – The home’s connection to airmen training at Hondo’s famous airfield.

✅ How Travelers Find This Hidden Gem – From Big Bend road trippers to European visitors, why people choose Hondo.

✅ Economic Growth & Local Impact – How Hondo, Texas is building a vibrant community around tourism and quality of life.

📍 Looking for a one-of-a-kind stay in Texas? Chateau Claire offers history, charm, and Southern hospitality.

🎥 Watch now and discover why this Texas chateau is a must-visit!

📲 Follow Chateau Claire & Plan Your Stay:

🌎 Website: www.chateauclaire.com

📷 Instagram: @chateauclairebnb

📍 Facebook: Chateau Claire

🔔 Subscribe to The Building Texas Show for more stories on Texas innovation, leadership, and economic growth!

In this episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie visits Chateau Claire, a stunning historic bed and breakfast in Hondo, Texas, with owners Joe and Melissa Claren.

Tucked away just off Highway 90, this 1914 Sears & Roebuck catalog home has been meticulously restored into a charming getaway for travelers, event hosts, and history lovers. From hosting weddings to preserving the home’s unique past, Chateau Claire is redefining small-town luxury and offering a one-of-a-kind Texas experience.

00:00 Welcome to The Building Texas Show

01:15 Introducing Chateau Claire in Hondo, Texas

03:00 How Joe & Melissa Found This Historic Home

05:10 Restoring a 1914 Sears & Roebuck House

07:30 Ties to WWII & Hondo’s Airmen Training

09:15 Exploring the Unique Guest Rooms & Themes

11:40 Weddings, Events, and Unique Gatherings

14:00 How Travelers Discover This Hidden Gem

16:45 European Guests & The Growing Fan Base

19:10 Hondo’s Economic Growth & Tourism Potential

22:30 How to Book Your Stay at Chateau Claire

23:45 The Story Behind the Name 'Chateau Claire'

25:00 Final Thoughts & The Future of Hondo

📌 Episode Title: The AI Threat No One Is Ready For

🎙️ Host: Justin McKenzie (The Building Texas Show)

🎤 Guest: Lee Martin, cybersecurity expert at CoFense

🚀 Episode Overview:

In this episode, The Building Texas Show dives deep into AI, cybersecurity, and the future of work with Lee Martin, a leading expert in cybersecurity training and human risk management. As AI evolves, so do the risks of phishing, deepfakes, and cyber deception—threats that can put businesses, individuals, and even entire industries at risk.

🔍 Topics Covered:

• How AI is making phishing attacks smarter and more believable
• The rise of deepfake scams in business fraud
• The dangers of AI-generated misinformation and deception
• Why AI literacy is critical for businesses and individuals
• The ethical and philosophical questions AI presents
• How human risk management is reshaping cybersecurity strategies
• What leaders, employees, and families need to do to stay ahead of AI-driven threats

🛡️ Key Takeaways:

• Cybercriminals are using AI to craft perfect phishing attacks. Employees need training and awareness to recognize these evolving threats.
• Deepfake scams are already happening. AI-powered impersonations have cost companies millions in fraudulent transactions.
• AI is redefining what it means to "know" something. We're heading toward an epistemological crisis where verifying reality becomes difficult.
• The future of work will be shaped by AI-powered decision-making. If you’re not learning AI, you risk falling behind.
• AI can be used for both good and bad. The challenge is ensuring we use it responsibly while staying protected from its malicious applications.

📍 Where to Learn More:

• Visit CoFense for cybersecurity training and phishing awareness.
• Follow Lee Martin on LinkedIn for insights on AI and security.
• Stay up-to-date on AI, cybersecurity, and the future of work by subscribing to The Building Texas Show!

🎧 Listen Now: https://youtu.be/BWobTcvG9AY

🔔 Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss future episodes—hit like, subscribe, and turn on notifications!

📢 Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on AI and cybersecurity? Drop a comment below!

🎙 Episode Title: The Hidden Power of Brand Identity | Ed Howie | The Building Texas Show

🚀 Episode Overview:

How can businesses stand out in a crowded market? In this episode, branding expert Ed Howie (BTY Creative) shares why most businesses struggle with branding and what they can do to fix it. From working with HEB, Chick-fil-A, and Texas MedClinic to helping startups clarify their message, Ed breaks down the essential elements of brand identity, marketing, and operational alignment.

✅ Key Takeaways:

✔ The #1 mistake businesses make when branding

✔ Why "if they don’t know you have it, they can’t buy it"

✔ The difference between marketing, branding, and operations

✔ Why most startups fail in the first pitch

✔ How profit fuels impact—and why you shouldn’t feel bad about making money

✔ How word-of-mouth is the best marketing strategy

🔔 Subscribe now for more expert insights on business and entrepreneurship!

📲 Follow us on Social Media:

SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: [@TheBuildingTexasShow]

📷 Instagram/FB: [@theBuildingTexasShow]

🎥 TikTok: [@theBuildingTexasShow]

🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts!

Summary

In this episode, Ben Marquart discusses the future of mobility, focusing on electrification and its applications in defense vehicles through his startup, Pawnee Mobility. He shares his journey to San Antonio, the advantages of electric vehicles in military contexts, and the importance of navigating the SBIR funding process. The conversation highlights the innovative design of a new tactical vehicle and the critical role of business planning in startup success.

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the complexities of navigating bureaucracy in business development, particularly in the context of military and commercial applications. They explore the dual-use concept, which allows for products to serve both military and civilian markets, and delve into the potential for off-road vehicles in various sectors, including hunting and luxury markets. The discussion also highlights the intersection of motorsports and electric vehicles, emphasizing the advantages of electrification in performance. Funding strategies and the challenges of scaling production are examined, along with the importance of building strategic partnerships for long-term success.

Takeaways

• Mobility is evolving beyond traditional cars to include electrification.
• San Antonio's tech community offers unique opportunities for startups.
• Pawnee Mobility aims to innovate defense vehicles with electrification.
• Electrification provides tactical advantages for military applications.
• The design of new vehicles is inspired by Baja racing technology.
• Extended range electric vehicles can switch between electric and combustion power.
• The SBIR process is crucial for funding innovative defense projects.
• Business planning is essential for startup success and securing funding.
• Understanding customer needs is vital for product development.
• The military's evolving needs drive innovation in vehicle design.  Navigating bureaucracy can be challenging for startups.
• The dual-use concept enhances market viability.
• Commercial applications can support military innovations.
• Off-road vehicles have diverse market potential.
• Electrification offers performance advantages in motorsports.
• Funding is crucial for prototype development.
• Scaling production requires careful planning.
• Strategic partnerships can drive business growth.
• Investors should align with the company's vision.
• The local culture supports innovative ventures.

Keywords

mobility, electrification, defense vehicles, Pawnee Mobility, SBIR, electric vehicles, military innovation, startup funding, automotive technology, San Antonio, business development, dual use, military applications, commercial vehicles, electric vehicles, motorsports, funding strategies, production scaling, strategic partnerships

Introduction: Welcome to another inspiring episode of "The Building Texas Show"! In this week's episode, we're thrilled to be in our new studio at Das Greenhouse, hosting a conversation with Charles Woodin, CEO of Geekdom in San Antonio. Join host Justin McKenzie as they delve deep into the entrepreneurial ecosystem of San Antonio, discussing how innovation can flourish in various industries and communities across Texas.

Summary of the Episode: In this episode, Justin McKenzie and Charles Woodin explore the dynamic world of startups and innovation within the San Antonio region. They discuss the pivotal role Geekdom plays in nurturing startups from ideation to market success, the importance of having the right mentorship and funding, and how key partnerships can help build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Texas. Charles shares his insights on the evolution of Geekdom, the importance of coachability and market fit for founders, and the exciting potential for growth beyond the urban centers into smaller towns.

Highlights of the Episode:

• The unique approach Geekdom takes in fostering startups and small businesses in San Antonio.
• The significance of "accidental collisions" within spaces like Das Greenhouse and how they inspire innovation.
• Challenges and opportunities in making follow-on funding accessible for early-stage companies.
• The critical role of mentorship, community support, and programmatic structure in the journey from idea to market.
• The shared vision of expanding the success model of Geekdom and Das Greenhouse to smaller communities throughout Texas.

3 Quotes from the Episode:

1. Charles Woodin: "You build it, they'll come... When you bring these people together in a small confine, you create the right environment, amazing things will happen."
2. Justin McKenzie: "My mission is to take that model into small town... those people need resources. They need the next wave of education to help their kids understand that they can build that business into a career."
3. Charles Woodin: "If we are not shining a spotlight on the innovations and the founders that are coming from these communities, then it’s a failure on us because the more that we shine a spotlight on them, I think, funding is more mobile today than it’s ever been."

This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone passionate about building businesses and fostering innovation. Don't miss out on future episodes full of knowledge, inspiration, and community stories!

Subscribe to "The Building Texas Show" on your favorite podcast listening software and on YouTube to never miss another episode. Stay connected and keep building Texas together!

Introduction: Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Building Texas Show! Today, we're thrilled to bring you a compelling conversation with a true visionary in the construction industry—Karla Alvarado, founder of Homenovate. Join host Justin McKenzie as he delves into the unique journey of Karla, exploring her innovative approach to home renovations and how her expertise is transforming homes and lives in the San Antonio area.

Summary of the Episode: In this episode, Karla Alvarado shares her exciting transition from working on historic homes to new constructions and ultimately finding her niche in efficient home renovations. Karla discusses the challenges she faced in the construction industry and the strategies she employed to overcome them, highlighting how her company, Homenovate, is making a significant impact by offering homeowners rapid, cost-effective renovation solutions with no upfront costs.

Highlights of the Episode:

• Karla’s journey from historic home renovations to new constructions.
• The delays in city processes that led her back to home renovations.
• The financial benefits homeowners can realize by opting for her renovation services.
• The environmental impacts of new constructions versus home renovations.
• The specifics of her four unique renovation packages and how they maximize homeowner profit.
• The supportive role HomeNovate plays in the real estate transaction, from staging homes to providing marketing materials.

Quotes from the Episode:

1. Karla Alvarado on speed and efficiency:

1. Karla Alvarado on financial benefits for homeowners:

1. Justin McKenzie on the value of quality construction:

Invitation to Subscribe: Excited by what you heard? Make sure you don’t miss another episode! Subscribe to The Building Texas Show on your favorite podcast listening platform and on YouTube. Join us as we continue to explore the stories of the incredible people building Texas, one project at a time.

Subscribe now and stay updated with the latest episodes filled with inspiration, innovation, and insightful conversations from the heart of Texas! Go to www.buildingtexasshow.com to learn more about our guests and how to get involved today!

Introduction: Join host Justin McKenzie on this enthralling episode of The Building Texas Show as he sits down with the visionary James Oleen, founder of American Tenet. Together, they embark on a deep dive into the revolutionary world of dual-use drone technology, uncovering its vast potential for both military and commercial applications.

Summary: In this episode, James Oleen shares his ambitious journey from leaving his job to founding American Tenet, where he aims to perfect a drone that can soar indefinitely without an engine. Inspired by the albatross, Oleen's innovative project leverages atmospheric thermals and advanced AI to achieve unprecedented flight duration. From a cross-country drone flight fraught with challenges to ambitious projects aimed at 100,000 ft manned soaring, Oleen's narrative is nothing short of inspiring. Discover the extensive potential applications of this cutting-edge technology, from wildfire management to Coast Guard operations and surveillance.

Highlights of the Episode:

• Innovative Drone Technology:
• James Oleen sheds light on his groundbreaking drone capable of using atmospheric thermals for extended flight.
• Challenge and Triumph:
• Details from Oleen’s adventurous cross-country drone flight with Steve, which involved navigating dirt roads and changing batteries every 16 minutes.
• Rescue Operation Enhancement:
• An exploration of how this drone technology could revolutionize search and rescue operations, making them more efficient and less risky.

Quotes from the Episode:

1. "Our mission is to develop a drone that can stay airborne for months without an engine, inspired by how an albatross flies."
2. "Deploying multiple unmanned aircraft could ensure quicker recoveries in search and rescue operations, without putting additional lives in danger."
3. "It's not just about the tech; it's about the community. The soaring community’s enthusiasm around sharing their passion for aviation has been incredibly inspiring."

Don’t miss this captivating episode filled with insights and innovation. Tune into The Building Texas Show on your favorite podcast listing software and subscribe to our YouTube channel. Be the first to hear inspiring stories and groundbreaking developments that are shaping the future. Stay connected, stay informed, and never miss another episode!

Welcome back to "The Building Texas Show," where we spotlight the trailblazing individuals who are driving progress and innovation across Texas and beyond. In this episode, our esteemed host Justin McKenzie sits down with Andrew Cutcomb, co-founder of Uncommon Entrepreneurs and a key player in Puerto Rico's burgeoning startup ecosystem. Get ready for an engaging and enlightening conversation that explores the intersection of technology, community building, and economic development.

Summary of the Episode: Join us as Andrew Cutcomb delves into the exciting world of technology and its impact on modern entrepreneurship. From embracing AI to discussing the transformative power of blockchain, Andrew and Justin explore how the latest innovations are reshaping industries and creating new opportunities. The discussion also touches on Andrew’s endeavors to build a robust startup ecosystem in Puerto Rico, the unique challenges and incentives involved, and the importance of connections between entrepreneurial communities in Texas and Puerto Rico. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for tech enthusiasts, startup founders, and community builders alike.

Episode Highlights:

• Embracing Technology:
• Andrew and Justin discuss how technology, particularly AI and blockchain, can enhance creativity and productivity without replacing the human element.
• Building Ecosystems:
• Andrew shares his experience in fostering a thriving startup environment in Puerto Rico and the efforts to attract talent and investment.
• Nonprofit Innovation:
• Discover how platforms like DonatePR.com are revolutionizing nonprofit support and the role of organizations like Community Builder PR in enabling local impact.
• Human Connections:
• The conversation underscores the power of mentorship, constructive feedback, and robust networks in the growth of startups.
• Future Trends:
• A fascinating look at how AI, blockchain, and other technologies will converge to shape business and community landscapes in the near future.

3 Quotes from the Episode:

1. “AI is an enhancer, not a replacer, of creative roles. It necessitates human involvement for prompt formulation and outcome verification.” — Justin McKenzie
2. “We’re focused on building a thriving startup ecosystem in Puerto Rico by attracting talent and managing remote teams effectively.” — Andrew Cutcomb
3. “The true potential of blockchain lies in its ability to reduce intermediaries and ensure fair compensation for content creators.” — Andrew Cutcomb

Don’t miss out on the vibrant discussions and invaluable insights featured on "The Building Texas Show." Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite listening platform and follow us on YouTube to stay updated with our latest episodes. Join our community and be part of the conversation as we build a brighter future together!

Welcome to "The Building Texas Show," where we dive deep into the stories of the people and projects shaping the Lone Star State. In this episode, your host, Justin McKenzie, sits down with the remarkable Wood Chipman of Guy Chipman Construction. As both a master craftsman and history enthusiast, Wood brings a unique perspective to preserving Texas's rich architectural heritage.

Join us as Wood Chipman recounts the meticulous restoration of his great-great-grandfather's 1860 house, now a centerpiece of a thriving nature center and farmer's market. From reclaiming original bead board to restoring an antique buggy, Wood shares incredible insights into the artistry and challenges of historic preservation. The discussion extends to the broader importance of vocational education, the intricacies of historic courthouse restoration, and practical advice for homeowners tackling preservation projects.

Highlights of the Episode:

• The Restoration Journey:
• Discover the detailed, heartfelt restoration of a house that has stood the test of time and the key to sourcing period-accurate materials.
• Vocational Education Advocacy:
• Hear Wood and Justin discuss the urgent need for skilled tradespeople and how vocational education can bridge this gap.
• Balancing Old and New:
• Learn effective strategies for modernizing historic buildings without compromising their storied charm, from carefully integrated air conditioning systems to structural repairs.

Quotes from the Episode:

1. "Restoring my great-great-grandfather's house was not just a project; it was a tribute to my family's history and to preserving Texas's rich architectural legacy." - Wood Chipman
2. "We need more vocational programs in schools. These trades are the backbone of restoration work and essential to maintaining our cultural heritage." - Justin McKenzie
3. "In historic preservation, patience is your greatest tool. It’s not just about fixing structures but respecting the stories they carry." - Wood Chipman

Don't miss out on more inspiring stories and expert insights by subscribing to "The Building Texas Show" on your favorite podcast listing software and on YouTube. Stay connected with us and be part of a community passionate about preserving the heart and soul of Texas. Subscribe now, and let's build Texas together!