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 Justin McKenzie, host of the Building Texas Show. The conversation highlighted how Texas’s growth is being shaped by local leaders, entrepreneurs, and a commitment to telling stories that fuel opportunity across the state.
Oskam opened the episode by emphasizing that innovation is not confined to major metros. "In Texas, innovation isn't just happening in big cities, it's unfolding in small towns and communities across the state," she stated. 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 say, "Oh, you're American," but when he said he was from Texas, they would forget the American part. This early lesson in state identity fueled his passion for showcasing Texas as the "center of the universe" for growth, entrepreneurialism, and opportunity.
McKenzie’s show, which began as a local radio program in the Hill Country, was born from a desire to fill a visibility gap. "I was in the Hill Country and seeing some great entrepreneurial activities happening, but it's not making the local paper," he explained. 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. "If you can work that together, you can retain a lot of that talent," McKenzie said, addressing a key issue for the state. "Texas is very guilty. We all export so much talent that if we could retain it here, it'll help with our growth."
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. "I really saw my hometown with a 7% turnout on a mayoral election. That May election was very important to our local community, our kids, and the future of that area," he noted. 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 echoed a principle from Oskam’s own TEDx talk: take action. "Do it and then figure it out," he advised. He encouraged entrepreneurs to deeply research a city’s comprehensive plan and regional economic strategy before planting roots. "Anywhere that you're researching, pull back their comprehensive plan… and say, is this going to fit what I want to be doing in 10 years?" For students and lifelong learners, he emphasized the enduring value of community and mentorship, often found in unexpected places. "What can you learn while you're at this phase or stage that you're in? It may be a professor from twenty years ago that you go back and 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.
