In a recent episode of the Change and Creativity Podcast, host Judy Oskam, professor and director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University, interviewed fellow Bobcat and entrepreneur Justin McKenzie, host of the Building Texas Show. The conversation focused on how Texas's growth is being shaped by local leaders, entrepreneurs, and a commitment to telling stories that fuel opportunity across the state.
McKenzie, a two-time Texas State graduate and first-generation college student, shared how his unique background—growing up abroad as a Texan—shaped his perspective. He recalled that when abroad, people would identify him as American, but when he said he was from Texas, the American label was forgotten. This early lesson in state identity fueled his passion for showcasing Texas as the center of opportunity for growth and entrepreneurialism.
His show, which began as a local radio program in the Hill Country, was born from a desire to fill a visibility gap. McKenzie explained that he saw great entrepreneurial activities happening in the Hill Country but they were not making the local newspaper. He believes storytelling is essential for acknowledging innovators, informing taxpayers, and inspiring the next generation. High school kids need to see that even in the rural hill country, anything is possible.
A significant portion of the Building Texas Show involves interviewing mayors from across Texas. McKenzie shared common themes from these conversations, noting that rapid growth is a universal challenge and opportunity. From Bastrop, which has seen an influx of companies like SpaceX and The Boring Company, to Lubbock and Amarillo, each city is navigating how to scale while preserving its heritage. He highlighted the symbiotic relationship between cities and universities, using Texas State University and San Marcos as a prime example. McKenzie noted that if cities and universities work together, they can retain much of the talent that Texas often exports.
Beyond profiling builders and mayors, McKenzie has launched new initiatives to engage Texans in civic and economic life. Vote Like a Texan focuses on nonpartisan civic education, explaining local government roles and encouraging participation in often-overlooked local elections. He observed that his hometown had only a 7% turnout in a mayoral election, emphasizing the importance of local elections. The upcoming Work Like a Texan series will connect job seekers and employers, highlighting in-demand skills and partnerships with trade schools and community colleges.
When asked for advice, McKenzie encouraged entrepreneurs to deeply research a city's comprehensive plan and regional economic strategy before planting roots. He advised checking if the city's plan fits what one wants to be doing in ten years. For students and lifelong learners, he emphasized the enduring value of community and mentorship, often found in unexpected places, such as a professor from twenty years ago that one can call.
The full interview offers deeper insights into Texas's innovation corridors, the future of work, and the power of storytelling. It is now available on the Change and Creativity Podcast at https://www.changeandcreativity.com/. For more information about McKenzie's work, visit the Building Texas Show at https://buildingtexasshow.com.
