Podcast
Building Texas Business
Hosted by BoyarMiller · EN
BoyarMiller Chairman Chris Hanslik interviews industry thought leaders and organizational visionaries in a discussion rife with leading edge information, the latest trends, case studies, and news. Business inspiration, growth, challenges, corporate culture and mentorship will be on the agenda. Enjoy the banter and glean valuable insight as the conversation unfolds.
15episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ep109: Bringing the FIFA World Cup to Houston with Ryan Walsh
2w ago00:37:59Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik sits down with Ryan Walsh, CEO of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, for a conversation about Houston’s growing role as one of the country’s premier destinations for major sporting events.Ryan explains the mission of the Sports Authority, how the organization helps attract and support events like the Super Bowl, Final Four, World Baseball Classic, and FIFA World Cup, and why those events create meaningful economic impact across the region. He also shares how Houston’s venues, hospitality industry, public partners, and business community work together to deliver large-scale events that showcase the city on a national and global stage.The conversation takes a deep look at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Houston, including what residents and visitors can expect from Houston Stadium, the Fan Fest in EaDo, international fan culture, and the once-in-a-generation opportunity for Houston to welcome the world. Ryan also discusses why 2026 may become the biggest sports year in Houston’s history and how the city is preparing for a summer that will put its food, culture, diversity, and collaborative spirit on full display.Chris and Ryan also talk about leadership, building the right team, creating a culture of accountability, transparency, and collaboration, and preparing an organization for high-pressure moments where execution matters.If you are interested in Houston business, sports tourism, leadership, and the impact major events can have on a city’s economy and identity, this episode offers a timely and insightful look at how Houston is getting ready for the world stage.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Harris County-Houston Sports Authority
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Ep108: From NASCAR to CEO: A Small Business Growth Story with Brad Coleman
4w ago00:33:51Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik sits down with Brad Coleman, Owner and CEO of Safeway Driving, for a conversation that goes far beyond driver’s education. Brad shares his remarkable journey from racing professionally in NASCAR to leading one of Texas’s most established driving schools, and how that transition became the foundation for a purpose-driven business.Brad talks about how his passion for cars and driver safety first took shape, what he learned competing at the highest levels of motorsports, and how those lessons carried into entrepreneurship, leadership, and business growth. He also explains how Safeway Driving has evolved from a traditional local driving school into a modern franchise operation with a strong reputation, innovative curriculum, and a measurable impact on driver safety across Texas.Along the way, the conversation explores topics like overcoming adversity, building the right team, protecting company culture, balancing accountability with empathy, and growing a business without compromising quality. Brad also offers candid insight into the pressure of racing, the mindset required to get back behind the wheel after a serious crash, and how confidence and preparation can make all the difference, both in business and on the road.It’s a compelling episode about resilience, reinvention, and what it looks like to build a business that is both scalable and deeply meaningful. For business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders looking for lessons in growth, culture, and long-term vision, this conversation delivers plenty to take away.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Safeway Driving
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Ep107: Lessons from Building a Global Technology Business with Chris Howard
Apr 800:42:48Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik sits down with Chris Howard, founder and CEO of Softeq Development, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, innovation, and building a technology company over nearly three decades.Chris shares how he started his business after leaving IBM, the early risks he took, and the lessons he learned while growing Softeq into a full-stack engineering firm working across hardware, software, and emerging technologies. He explains how a mindset of constant learning has been critical to staying relevant in an industry that continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Chris and Chris discuss what innovation looks like in practice, how business owners can think about adopting new technologies, and why curiosity and adaptability are essential traits for long-term success. The conversation also explores how artificial intelligence is changing the way companies operate and what leaders should be doing today to prepare for what comes next.The discussion also highlights lessons in hiring, culture, and leadership, including how to build teams that can grow with the business and deliver consistent results over time.If you are interested in entrepreneurship, technology, and leading a business through constant change, this episode offers practical insight from a founder who has done it for nearly 30 years.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Softeq
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Ep106: Leading Through Company Transformation with Erin Gajdalo
Mar 2500:39:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik sits down with Erin Gajdalo, CEO of Pluralsight, for a conversation about leadership, company transformation, and the challenges of scaling technology businesses.Erin shares the story of her first year leading Pluralsight and the dramatic changes the company has undergone. After stepping into the role, she faced a lender takeover, the need to rebuild the executive team, and the challenge of resetting the organization’s culture and go-to-market structure to return the business to growth.Chris and Erin discuss the realities many startups and SaaS companies face after periods of rapid expansion, including how leaders must align teams around clear priorities, understand where to invest resources, and make difficult decisions during a turnaround. Erin also explains how her leadership style evolved as the company worked through its transformation.The conversation also explores how organizations are responding to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. Erin explains how Pluralsight helps companies develop technology skills, build AI literacy across their workforce, and ensure employees understand how to effectively use emerging tools.This episode offers insight into leadership, culture, and the decisions required to guide organizations through periods of change and transformation.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Pluralsight
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Ep105: Entrepreneurship, Leadership and the Texas Business Advantage with Steve Montgomery
Mar 1100:35:14Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik sits down with Steve Montgomery, President and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, for a conversation about leadership, entrepreneurship, and the growth of one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.Steve brings more than three decades of experience in both the private and public sectors. Before leading the Fort Worth Chamber, he helped build and grow a healthcare information technology company, joining as the fourth employee and helping scale the business before its eventual sale. That experience shaped his perspective on entrepreneurship, small business challenges, and the importance of building strong teams.Chris and Steve discuss the mission of the Fort Worth Chamber and its role in advocating for businesses, connecting companies with opportunities, and helping create an environment where businesses can grow and thrive. Steve explains why Fort Worth is experiencing significant growth, pointing to the city’s expanding population, available land for development, and its strategic location within the Texas economy.The conversation also explores leadership lessons from building startups, including hiring philosophy, the importance of culture, and the value of adaptability in growing organizations. Steve shares insights from his work with businesses across Fort Worth, along with trends he’s hearing from local leaders as they navigate economic uncertainty and global market pressures.If you are interested in entrepreneurship, leadership development, and the factors driving business growth across Texas, this episode offers valuable perspective from someone working directly with companies every day.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout The Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
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Ep104: Capital Discipline, Culture and Leadership in Texas Energy with Roe Patterson
Feb 2500:53:00Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik sits down with Roe Patterson, co-founder and Managing Partner of Marauder Capital, for a candid conversation about leadership, resilience, and building energy businesses in one of Texas’ most cyclical industries.With more than 30 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, Roe has built, scaled, sold, and led companies across the energy spectrum, including serving as CEO of a public oilfield services company and completing more than 130 M&A transactions throughout his career. Today, he invests in and advises energy and industrial services businesses, bringing both operator experience and board-level perspective to the table.Roe shares what it takes to navigate downturns, manage risk, and know when to walk away, whether from a deal, a strategy, or a hiring decision. He discusses the importance of capital discipline, the industry’s shift toward lower leverage and return of capital, and how technological advancements such as automation and AI continue to reshape energy production without replacing the people who make it work.The conversation also explores culture, mentorship, and leadership evolution. Roe reflects on lessons learned from early setbacks, the power of listening over talking, and why humility and decisiveness must coexist in strong leadership. From hiring philosophy and team retention to innovation and safety in the field, this episode offers practical insight for business owners navigating growth in dynamic industries.If you are interested in entrepreneurship, energy, leadership development, and the realities of building businesses in Texas, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom from someone who has seen the industry from every angle.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Marauder Capital
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Ep103: Leadership, Legacy & Barbecue with Levi Goode
Feb 1100:43:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik sits down with Levi Goode, president of Goode Company, to talk about leadership, legacy, and building a business rooted in Texas culture.A fifth-generation Texan and three-time James Beard Award nominee, Levi grew up in the family business founded by his father, Jim Goode. From washing dishes as a kid to leading one of Houston’s most iconic hospitality groups, Levi shares what it means to carry forward a legacy while continuing to evolve.The conversation explores the realities of running a family business, earning trust as a leader, and preserving culture as a company grows. Levi reflects on the role Texas traditions play in Goode Company’s identity, from backyard barbecue and barbecue cook-offs to Houston Rodeo season, community gatherings, and the cookout culture that brings people together year after year.Chris and Levi also discuss leadership development, team culture, and the responsibility that comes with stewarding a brand that has been part of Houston’s food scene and rodeo tradition for decades. This episode offers thoughtful insight into entrepreneurship, hospitality, and what it takes to build a business that lasts in Texas.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Goode Company
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Ep102: Building a Better Beverage Brand with Brandon Joldersma
Jan 2800:41:18Tap to summarizeBrandon shares how Surely became a leader in non-alcoholic wine and why nearly 90 percent of its customers still drink alcohol. Rather than targeting only those who are sober, the brand connects with people who want to enjoy wine on their own terms. He also introduces Arlow, the first legally recognized low-alcohol wine brand in the United States, offering half the calories and zero sugar while maintaining the full-bodied experience wine lovers expect.Listeners will learn how Arlow’s concept grew from Brandon’s deep understanding of consumer behavior and his curiosity about where the market was heading. He explains the technical challenges of dealcoholization, how his California-based team perfected the process, and what it takes to create a wine that meets both taste and quality standards in this emerging space.Beyond product development, Brandon discusses how Surely and Arlow have scaled from direct-to-consumer beginnings to major retail success. Today, Surely can be found in Target, Sprouts, Total Wine & More, and Spec’s. He explains how the company’s focus on profitability and sustainable growth has allowed it to thrive in a changing industry where investors now value lean operations over rapid expansion.As the conversation continues, Brandon shares leadership lessons from two distinct growth phases: one centered on fast-paced scaling and another built around operational discipline. He offers insights into the importance of communication, team alignment, and company culture, noting that even high-performing employees can hold a business back if they are not the right cultural fit.Brandon also reflects on his journey as a leader, emphasizing the need for transparency and collaboration, both with his team and with his investors. His approach to management highlights how curiosity, accountability, and clear communication can drive consistent results without compromising values.Now rooted in Austin with his family, Brandon talks about what makes Texas the perfect home for entrepreneurs like him. From the state’s unique energy to its strong business community and culinary culture, he shares why Texas has become the ideal place to grow both personally and professionally.Whether you are interested in brand strategy, leadership, or the evolving world of consumer products, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how clarity of purpose and innovative thinking can build a business that lasts.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Surely WineAbout Arlow Wine
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Ep101: Transforming a Family Business Through Purpose and Accountability with Nubia Pérez
Jan 1400:33:11Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik talks with Nubia Pérez, CEO and part-owner of Gretna Machine Shop, a Houston-based precision manufacturer serving the energy, aerospace, and defense industries.Nubia shares the remarkable story of how her family built Gretna from a single-garage operation in 1980 into a certified lean manufacturing company, and how she later transformed it through leadership, culture, and purpose.After her father’s passing in 2012, Nubia faced a decade of uncertainty before realizing that the company’s future depended on her stepping forward. She reveals how she rebuilt Gretna from within by creating accountability, redefining its culture, and leading with empathy and transparency.From embracing EOS to driving diversification from oil and gas to aerospace, Nubia explains what it takes to modernize a second-generation family business while honoring its legacy. She also shares her perspective on automation, AI, and making manufacturing “mindful” again.If you are interested in leadership, culture change, and the evolution of Texas manufacturing, this episode offers a powerful look at resilience, renewal, and what it means to lead with heart and purpose.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout Gretna Machine Shop
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Ep100: The Future of Law & Business in Texas with Dean Reynaldo Valencia & Billy Murphy
Dec 300:52:36Tap to summarizeIn this special live 100th episode of Building Texas Business, Chris Hanslik talks with Dean Reynaldo Valencia, President and Dean of South Texas College of Law Houston, and Billy Murphy, CEO of University Lands, about the intersection of law, leadership, and innovation in shaping Texas’ future.From higher education to resource management, both guests share how Texas institutions are adapting to a rapidly changing world while balancing tradition and transformation. Dean Valencia discusses the law school’s century-long commitment to access and opportunity, its pioneering online programs, and how artificial intelligence is reshaping legal education. Murphy offers a look inside University Lands, where a small team manages 2.1 million acres and billions in annual revenue to fund public universities, while navigating emerging challenges such as renewable energy, AI, and sustainability.Together, they explore how legal training builds critical thinking and leadership skills that extend far beyond the courtroom, and why innovation, ethics, and stewardship remain central to Texas’ continued growth.If you’re interested in leadership, education, and the forces shaping the future of business in Texas, this milestone episode offers a thoughtful, forward-looking conversation about progress built on purpose.LINKSShow NotesPrevious EpisodesAbout BoyarMillerAbout South Texas College of LawAbout University Lands
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