In this episode of Boom ATX, host Glenn Hart welcomes Ben White to the studio for an in-depth chat about Ben's Economic Development career from North to Central Texas. Ben is currently the President and CEO of the Taylor Economic Development Corporation overseeing all the economic development strategy and deal making related to a new $17B Samsung chip plant and beyond but Ben also spend years with Round Rock and Cedar Park where he was critical part of bringing some of the biggest deals to these communities.

Tune-in to hear about Ben's career as well as the ground insights of how the sleepy little town of Taylor is expected to manage the Boom that is continuing to come their way in Eastern Williamson County!

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!

In this episode of Boom ATX, hosts Glenn and Lee welcome Ken Leonard, co-owner & co-founder of Mozart's Coffee Roasters, an iconic Austin coffee spot located on Lake Austin. Join us as we dive into Ken's journey as a business owner and OG coffee roaster in Austin and we discuss the significance of local businesses, America's changing coffee culture since founding in the 90's, the charm of Austin and the area surrounding Mozart's, the ever evolving Mozart's holiday light show, and much more.....

Tune in for a caffeinated discussion filled with local flavor and interesting stories behind Austin's vibrant business community.

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!

On this episode of BoomATX Glenn and Lee dive into a Hot Topic: AI and its future as we are joined by Kirk Offel, CEO of Austin based, Veteran focused data center training and recruitment firm Overwatch Mission Critical. Kirk also is founder of DCAC (Data Center Anti-Conference).

Kirk shares his journey from the military to becoming a significant player in the data center industry, how DCAC in its 10th year continues breaking the traditional conference mold right here in Austin, talks about AI, why veterans are the perfect data center workforce, more about AI and much more.

This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and a deep dive into the future of AI and data centers. Whether you're an industry veteran or new to the field, there's something here for everyone. Tune in to learn more about the exciting developments in the world of AI, data centers and anti-conferences!

Speaking of AI, apologies to Kirk as AI wasn't too kind to us in this episode's graphic.

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!

In this refreshing new episode, Lee and Glenn sit down with Aaron Owens, founder of Tejas Tonic, the hemp-infused beverage taking Austin by storm. Born in the heart of Texas, Tripping Springs, Tejas Tonic has been helping locals sip easy with a lineup of flavorful, chill-inducing drinks. Join us as Aaron shares his wild story of creating Teja Tronic, the journey, the process and a deep dive into the emerging Hemp industry in Texas — that is now in serious jeopardy.

At the time of this episode's release, a sweeping THC ban is sitting on Governor Greg Abbott’s desk, threatening to wipe out an entire industry of Texas entrepreneurs innovating in the hemp and cannabis-adjacent space. Aaron explains what this ban could mean — not just for his business, but for many of others across Austin and the state.

This episode isn’t just about a great new local beverage innovating in a whole new category — it’s about small business, personal freedom, and the future of hemp in the Lone Star State. Don’t miss this timely conversation that could become a snapshot of a vanishing Texas industry if the ban becomes law.

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!

In this episode of BoomATX, we dive into the game-changing history of Austin’s Rainey Street bar scene with none other than Jesse Lunsford—real estate developer, east side visionary, and the man BoomATX calls 'The Godfather of Rainey'.

Before parades of bachelorettes, high-rise condos, and weekend mayhem, there was a Craigslist ad. Jesse, sensing the untapped potential after the City of Austin up-zoned the Rainey Street Historic District, bought a run-down bungalow at 97 Rainey, reinforced it just enough, and posted an ad seeking a bar operator. Enter Bridget Dunlap from Houston. She launched Lustre Pearl—and a nightlife revolution.

But Jesse didn’t stop there.

Through his firm, Rainey Ventures, Jesse has quietly reshaped Austin’s culture with projects at 61, 69, and 88 Rainey Street, as well as unique developments across the city for staples like Jacoby’s, Sour Duck, Armadillo Den, and the Michelin-starred LeRoy & Lewis.

This episode blends real estate hustle, creative placemaking, and the offbeat Austin spirit. If you’ve ever had a drink on Rainey or wondered how bungalows became bars and bars became towers, you don’t want to miss this one.

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!

In this episode, Austin icons Scotty Sayers and Ed Clements share their passion for Lions Municipal Golf Course (“Muny”) and its fight for preservation.

A Century of History & Community
Muny, celebrating 100 years, holds a special place in Austin’s heart as a hub for generations of golfers and the South’s first desegregated golf course.

The Fight to Save Muny
With increasing development pressure, Scotty and Ed—through The Muny Conservancy—are working to secure Muny’s future in partnership with UT and the City of Austin.

Celebrity & Community Support
The campaign has rallied stars like Matthew McConaughey, Kyle Chandler, and Luke Wilson, alongside local high school teams and Austin Golf Academy students.

Vision for the Future
Scotty and Ed discuss plans for an enhanced public course, a potential museum, and sustainable partnerships to protect Muny’s legacy.

100th Anniversary Celebration
The recent centennial event, attended by city leaders, showcased Austin’s love for Muny and the importance of preserving its green space for generations to come.

Get Involved
Saving Muny is about more than golf—it's about preserving Austin’s history and spirit. Join the cause and be part of the solution!

🎧 Tune in now to BoomATX for this inspiring conversation!

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!

In this episode, Glenn Hart chats with Lee Miller, world-renowned custom bootmaker and owner of Austin's iconic Texas Traditions Boots, where there's a five-year waitlist for a pair of his handcrafted custom cowboy boots.

Lee shares the rich history of Texas Traditions and its founder, the legendary Charlie Dunn who's bootmaking skills and celebrity clientele inspired the classic Jerry Jeff Walker song “Charlie Dunn” in 1972.

From Vermont to Austin, Lee’s journey to becoming Charlie’s apprentice and ultimately taking over the business is filled with passion, artistry, and a commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Tune in to hear about the intricate process behind making some of the best custom boots in the world, the shop’s star-studded customer list and Lee’s mentoring the next generation of bootmakers.

If you appreciate handcrafted artistry or a great Austin story, this episode is a must-listen!

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!

On this POTcast episode of BoomATX, join Lee as he visits with Nico Richardson Owner of Texas Original Medical Cannabis cultivation facility located in Austin, TX. Texas Original produces everything from seed to solution locally for our fellow Texan's medical marijuana needs. Texas Original is committed to serving patients across the State of Texas with legal medicinal marijuana products that can help with an array of medical conditions. Join us as we dive into the realm of legal controlled cannabis offerings and other not so controlled hemp derived products on the market today.

BoomATX - Interesting Austinites Doing Interesting Things!