Episodi

  • Anchored in Innovation: Industry Leaders Growing in Kilgore

    Anchored in Innovation: Industry Leaders Growing in Kilgore
    Feb 26 2026
    In this episode, Dave sits down with Alan Pollard, Vice President of SATCOM Antenna Products at CPI, to discuss the unique success story of CPI’s Kilgore, Texas operation. The conversation traces CPI’s impressive 50-year history and global reach as the world’s largest antenna systems supplier. Alan shares how Kilgore’s available resources, skilled labor, and welcoming community made it a logical and strategic home for a world-class manufacturer in the heart of East Texas.

    They also talk about community partnerships that have been key to CPI’s growth, including working with the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and local educational institutions. Alan highlights CPI’s cutting-edge advances like AI integration and 3D printing, and reflects on how Kilgore’s supportive and collaborative culture, affordable cost of living, and diverse workforce have enabled the company—and other incoming businesses—to thrive. Alan also offers advice for any business owner considering relocation to Texas and to smaller markets like Kilgore that offer big advantages.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • CPI’s evolution from RMS and Vertex to a global leader in antenna manufacturing
    • Why Kilgore was selected and remains the hub for CPI’s operations
    • The company’s worldwide impact, supplying both commercial and military markets
    • Community partnerships: Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore College
    • Recruitment and labor strategies, from skilled labor to engineering talent
    • Emphasis on community integration, support, and STEM education
    • Adoption of emerging technologies: AI and 3D printing
    • The appeal and value of doing business in smaller Texas communities
    • Alan’s advice for businesses considering a move to Kilgore or Texas overall
    • Local culture, dining, and quality of life in Kilgore
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    22 min
  • Master Planning for Growth: How Collin College Powers Workforce Innovation

    Master Planning for Growth: How Collin College Powers Workforce Innovation
    Feb 24 2026
    Dave welcomes Dr. Neil Matkin, President of Collin College, to discuss the explosive growth and innovation taking place within both Collin County and the college itself. They talk about how Collin College has risen to the challenge of serving a rapidly developing region, not just by reacting to workforce demands, but proactively shaping them through strategic planning, partnerships, and a commitment to keeping education and training affordable. Dr. Matkin shares insights into the college’s guiding vision, grounded in big goals and a desire to be recognized as the best community college in the nation.

    They also talk about how Collin College works closely with local businesses, school districts, and communities to create a robust talent pipeline, ensuring that students are equipped with practical, job-ready skills that meet evolving economic needs. Dr. Neil Matkin highlights the importance of regional collaboration, the benefits of dual credit and affordable bachelor’s degree programs, and the value of partnerships that transcend municipal boundaries. The episode wraps with reflections on the small-town values that persist even as North Texas experiences remarkable growth, and a personal look at Dr. Neil Matkin’s favorite ways to unwind.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Collin College’s ambitious growth strategy and master planning
    • The importance of serving diverse communities across Collin, Rockwall, and Denton counties
    • Investments in affordable education, including low tuition and bachelor’s degrees under $15K
    • Proactive, employer-driven workforce development and skills training
    • Strategic partnerships with ISDs, cities, EDCs, and major employers
    • Dual credit opportunities for high school students
    • Regional collaboration as a force-multiplier for communities and business owners
    • Current and emerging workforce demands in aerospace, IT, healthcare, and construction
    • Maintaining small-town values amid rapid metropolitan growth
    • Dr. Matkin’s personal reflections on leadership, community, and family
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    38 min
  • Scaling Your Business in Texas

    Scaling Your Business in Texas
    Feb 18 2026
    In this episode, Dave continues the Texas 12 with another Fairview discussion as he welcomes Jeff Schafer. They dive deep into what it takes for businesses to not only relocate to Texas, but to truly flourish in the state’s unique entrepreneurial environment. Jeff is a fourth-generation entrepreneur and certified EOS implementer. He shares his journey from Vancouver, Canada, to North Texas, offering insights on scaling a business, overcoming growth plateaus, and finding a supportive community. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing operational blind spots, distinguishing between leadership and management, and adopting systems that enable both personal and organizational growth.

    They reflect on the collaborative business culture of Texas, highlighting the willingness of local professionals and organizations to support newcomers. They also explore the human side of relocation, discussing how clarity in vision and values impacts not just the company but employees and their families.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • The process and emotional realities of relocating a business to Texas
    • How Texas distinguishes itself with a supportive, opportunity-focused business culture
    • Challenges related to taxes, legal, and operational complexities for newcomers
    • Importance of separating leadership from management, and the Visionary/Integrator dynamic
    • The role of core values in team performance and organizational health
    • Strategies for unlocking growth and overcoming the plateau
    • Why finding the right community and connections accelerates success
    • Actionable steps for overwhelmed business owners (getting help, reading the “label,” considering a system like EOS)
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    29 min
  • EP01 - Kilgore Spotlight Series: The Big Picture: Kilgore’s Economic Future

    EP01 - Kilgore Spotlight Series: The Big Picture: Kilgore’s Economic Future
    Feb 12 2026
    In the first of our special series of Gone To Texas, highlighting Kilgore, TX, Dave sits down with Lisa Denton, Executive Director of the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation. The conversation opens with a look at Kilgore’s history and its transformation from an oil boomtown to a diversified industrial center. Lisa shares how Kilgore’s industrial tax base has grown 551% since the formation of the Kilgore EDC in 1990, despite setbacks from the loss of legacy energy companies.

    The discussion highlights the features and advantages of Synergy Park, a Class A campus-style industrial park with amenities like nature trails and a stocked lake, designed to attract and retain skilled workers. Lisa Denton talks about Kilgore’s commitment to building relationships with businesses and helping them succeed by providing ongoing support, connecting them to resources, and facilitating access to workforce training through local colleges. The episode also covers Kilgore's approach to regional and global competition, efforts in marketing and international outreach, and ongoing projects and expansions by companies such as Skeeter Boats and Camfil.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    38 min
  • Building Community and Business Success

    Building Community and Business Success
    Feb 3 2026
    In this episode, "Super" Dave is joined by Nadim Ahmed, owner of two Venture X locations to talk about the entrepreneurial journey. Nadim shares his own story of transitioning from an engineering and corporate background to owning and operating two Venture X coworking locations in the Dalla and Fairview areas. Nadim also shares his personal story from immigrating to the U.S. as a child, to discovering his passion for how spaces influence creativity and productivity, to ultimately building thriving communities for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

    They also discuss the nuances of entrepreneurship, including the often-overlooked challenges faced by small business owners, the critical importance of choosing the right environment for business growth, and the value of building intentional, supportive communities. Nadim talks about how Venture X is designed to remove operational burdens from entrepreneurs so they can focus on their core work, while also fostering connections that combat the isolation many business owners experience. The episode also touches on the benefits of doing business in Texas and Fairview’s unique position as a hidden gem for growing enterprises.

    To learn more and connect with Nadim, visit: www.VentureX.com

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Strategic reasons for bringing Venture X locations to Dallas and Fairview, and what sets these communities apart
    • The importance of environment on productivity and mental health for entrepreneurs
    • Common pitfalls for new business owners and the unique operational challenges they face
    • The value of community, connection, and supportive networks in coworking spaces
    • How Texas—and specifically Fairview—offers advantages like cost-effectiveness, strategic location, and an entrepreneurial ecosystem
    • Advice for companies considering relocating to Texas, emphasizing the need to integrate with local communities and understand regional business nuances
    • Ways in which Venture X supports small and mid-sized businesses beyond offering office space
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    38 min
  • Why Kilgore is a Top Business Destination in East Texas

    Why Kilgore is a Top Business Destination in East Texas
    Jan 27 2026
    In this episode, "Super" Dave sits down with Lisa Denton, Executive Director of the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), to spotlight Kilgore, Texas and its impressive transformation over the past 35 years. Lisa recounts Kilgore's legacy as the "world's richest acre" due to its oil boom history and details the community’s pivot toward a diversified industrial economy following turbulent years in the oil and gas sector. With a 551% increase in Kilgore's industrial tax base from 1990 to 2025, Lisa Denton credits the unified mission of local partners, including the city, county, and higher education institutions, for shaping Kilgore into an economic powerhouse in East Texas.

    The episode also highlights Synergy Park, Kilgore's Class A, campus-style industrial park, which offers not just shovel-ready sites for businesses but unique amenities like nature trails and a stocked lake for employees and residents. Lisa discusses how Kilgore's collaborative, hands-on approach and commitment to customer service make it an attractive destination for companies from around the world seeking efficient support and lower operational costs. They also discuss how Kilgore supports relocating businesses, ranging from international manufacturers to globally recognized brands like Skeeter Boats and why Kilgore stands out as a model for economic development succe.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • The founding and mission of Kilgore Economic Development Corporation (KEDC)
    • The significant 551% growth in Kilgore’s industrial tax base over 35 years
    • Importance of business retention, expansion, and personalized support from the KEDC
    • Features and amenities of Synergy Park, including its unique appeal to companies and employees
    • Collaborative relationships with city, county, and higher education partners
    • Success stories (e.g., Skeeter Boats, Merit Preferred Components, and other manufacturers)
    • Regional teamwork in attracting global business investments
    • The role of customer service and community culture in economic development
    • Lisa's favorite local restaurants and tips for visiting business owners
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    38 min
  • Building Community and Culture at Saputo in Sulphur Springs

    Building Community and Culture at Saputo in Sulphur Springs
    Jan 20 2026
    Super Dave Quinn is joined by Joe Wallace, plant manager of Saputo Foods in Sulphur Springs, Texas, for an engaging conversation on community, company culture, and business growth in a rural setting. Joe Wallace shares his personal journey from starting as a young, entry-level employee at the plant to managing over 550 employees today, reflecting on how curiosity, dedication, and a focus on people propelled both his career and the facility's success.

    They discuss the importance of holistic employee engagement, notably lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how hands-on training and environment contribute to workforce stability and satisfaction. Joe explores the unique attributes that make Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County an attractive location for business and family life. The episode touches on the value of local leadership, community involvement, and a supportive culture that extends beyond the workplace. They also talk about why business owners should consider relocating or expanding to communities like Sulphur Springs, focusing on the significance of authentic engagement and integration with the local community.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Saputo Foods’ product evolution and focus on coffee creamers
    • Impact of COVID-19 on training, employee engagement, and workforce stability
    • Creation of the Saputo Training Center for hands-on learning
    • Strategies for attracting and retaining workers in a rural location
    • Importance of company and community culture in business success
    • Effects of Saputo’s acquisition and maintaining local identity
    • Sulphur Springs' unique blend of small-town values and opportunities for growth
    • Advice for business owners on engagement and communication with employees
    • Highlights of local spots and events that build community identity
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    40 min
  • Leveraging Rail, Water, and Workforce: The Growth Story of TexAmerica Center

    Leveraging Rail, Water, and Workforce: The Growth Story of TexAmerica Center
    Jan 13 2026
    In this episode of Gone to Texas, "Super" Dave sits down with Eric Voyles, Executive Vice President and Chief Economic Development Officer of TexAmerica Center, to explore the transformation of a former military base into one of the largest mixed-use industrial parks in North America. Eric dives into the history, unique governance model, and strategic advantages of TexAmerica Center, including its impressive infrastructure investments and regional workforce. The conversation highlights how TexAmerica Center supports businesses of all sizes—from startups seeking industrial space to major companies pursuing large-scale manufacturing and logistics projects in the Texarkana region.

    They discuss the diverse industrial base, logistical connections—including rail, road, and fiber networks—and the center’s nimble approach to permitting and development. Special attention is given to the region’s highly skilled, loyal workforce rooted in rural values, and the center’s commitment to streamlining the growth process for new and expanding companies. The episode concludes with a look at TexAmerica Center’s forward-looking strategies, such as qualified sites, build-to-suit solutions, and its role as an industrial incubator.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Transformation of military property into an industrial park
    • Special-purpose district structure and business-like operations
    • Infrastructure investments: utilities, fiber, water, and logistics
    • Regional manufacturing workforce and blue-collar culture
    • Cross-border workforce dynamics and commuting patterns
    • Streamlined permitting, site planning, and zoning flexibility
    • Logistics assets: interstate highways, rail connections, and fiber
    • Industrial incubator services and third-party logistics expertise
    • Build-to-suit development strategy and qualified sites program
    • Quality of life in Texarkana, including recreation, arts, and lifestyle
    • Strategies for scaling and partnerships with private developers
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    55 min