Advertise on podcast: Gone to Texas

"Super" Dave Quinn visits Arnis and Mallory Robbins of Evie Mae’s Barbecue to discuss the evolution of their business. The conversation covers the transition they made from their landscaping business in Arizona to starting a barbecue business in Texas. They share the challenges of starting from scratch, building their own equipment, and the realities of running a small food business. The story unfolds from their early days selling barbecue on the side of the road to eventually establishing a destination restaurant in Wolfforth, Texas. They talk about how community support and business-friendly policies in Wolfforth were crucial to their growth. Press coverage, like a key review from Daniel Vaughn of Texas Monthly, was a significant turning point, bringing immediate attention and boosting their customer base. The discussion also includes practical advice for entrepreneurs, the unique benefits of small-town business culture, the role of local partnerships, and the importance of perseverance. Chapter: 04:07 – Building the first smoker and first cooks 10:23 – Launching the first food trailer 13:03 – Transitioning barbecue from hobby to side business 18:03 – Food truck operations and selling barbecue 23:12 – Moving to Texas and choosing Wolfforth 26:14 – Licensing and early days in Wolfforth 31:53 – Facing business challenges, Daniel Vaughn visit 34:44 – The Texas Monthly review and the business turnaround 38:07 – Scaling up and offers for brick-and-mortar 41:58 – Staying loyal to Wolfforth 43:48 – Community support and impact 47:38 – Comparing support in Texas vs Florida 52:10 – Advice for new entrepreneurs 56:03 – Running a family business and dividing roles Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

Dave sits down with Jason McCann, co-founder and CEO of Vari, for an in-depth look at how a simple idea of solving workplace back pain became a catalyst for workspace innovation on a global scale.  They discuss the origins of Vari (formerly Varidesk), detailing the company’s pivot moments, including its major rebranding and its rapid adaptation during the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed the business not only to survive but thrive. The conversation also explores the advantages of building a business in Texas, the significance of company culture, and the human element behind business decisions and growth. They also talk about the entrepreneurial mindset that fueled Vari’s explosive growth, the flexibility and community spirit found in Texas, and the continuously evolving vision for the workspace of the future. Jason offers advice on navigating local market challenges, leveraging economic development resources, and designing agile work environments, also sharing anecdotes about product innovation and the role of feedback in shaping their ever-expanding portfolio. Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

"Super" Dave continues the conversation about Kilgore, talking to Tanya Johnson, HR Manager at Camfil. They discuss the company's growth in Kilgore, Texas, and she shares her background in HR and how she was recruited to join Camfil during its expansion, emphasizing the excitement and opportunities that come with building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Tanya talks about Camfil's global reach as a manufacturer of premium clean air solutions and the positive impact this work has for both the environment and local employees. The conversation also explores why Kilgore is a strong location for advanced manufacturing, citing its skilled workforce, strategic location, business parks, and strong support from the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation. Tanya Johnson explains the sense of community in Kilgore and how it contributed to her decision to not just work but also live there.  Key Topics Discussed: Camfil’s global impact and advanced manufacturing in KilgoreThe importance of clean air solutions for people and the environmentKilgore’s skilled workforce and business environmentThe role of the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation in supporting growthCommunity life and quality of living in KilgoreRecommended restaurants in Kilgore Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

The Kilgore series continues with Brandon Balcon, Dean of Public Services and Industrial Technologies at Kilgore College, who discusses workforce development in East Texas and the role Kilgore College plays in preparing students for high-demand careers. The conversation covers a variety of training programs, including customized on-site training for local industries, continuing education certificates, and dual-credit options for high school students. Brandon explains how the college collaborates with industry partners through advisory committees to ensure its programs remain relevant and responsive to regional employment needs. They also talk about Kilgore College’s partnerships, such as the Texas Mutual Insurance Grant and work with the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation, which help provide free or subsidized safety training to local businesses. Brandon describes the importance of engaging local business owners, expanding manufacturing and apprenticeship opportunities, and giving students practical experience through internships and cooperative education. certifications  Key Topics Discussed: Kilgore College’s role in regional workforce developmentIndustry and education partnerships, including advisory committeesHigh-demand training programs (CDL, lineman, welding, public safety)Customized and on-site workforce training for businessesDual credit programs in partnership with local high schoolsGrant programs such as the Texas Mutual Insurance Grant for safety trainingThe impact of House Bill 8 on dual credit tuitionGrowth in apprenticeships and practical workforce experienceAdvice for business owners looking to relocate or expand in KilgoreKilgore’s geographic reach and community appeal Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

Our Kilgore Spotlight continues with "Super" Dave sitting down with Ricardo Viloria, a dynamic entrepreneur whose journey from Venezuela to East Texas illustrates the power of community, opportunity, and resilience. Ricardo shares his compelling story of relocating his business from South America to the United States, ultimately choosing Kilgore, Texas, after evaluating cities across multiple states. From navigating cultural shifts and economic shocks to building new ventures and raising a family, Ricardo talks about how Kilgore’s welcoming environment, supportive business community, and collaborative partnerships made all the difference in his success. You'll hear about working with the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore College, the value of local relationships, and how the unique culture of Kilgore continues to attract and inspire entrepreneurs seeking a place to grow. Whether you're interested in stories of starting over, insights on doing business in Texas, or the importance of community in business growth, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for the next generation of business leaders. Key Topics Discussed: Moving a business from Venezuela to TexasSite selection process and choosing KilgoreEarly business challenges and adapting to local cultureEffects of 9/11 on business operationsBuilding a family and staying in Kilgore post-exitEntrepreneurship and community support in KilgoreCollaboration with Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore CollegeWorkforce training and education partnershipsKilgore’s culture and impact on daily lifeObservations on Kilgore’s growth and future opportunitiesPersonal anecdotes about business and community experiences Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

"Super" Dave sits down with Tyler Esters, plant manager at CSI in Kilgore, Texas. Tyler shares the story of CSI’s growth as a global leader in bottle cap manufacturing, producing around 30 million caps daily at their Kilgore location. He explains how strategic local partnerships—including Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore College—have played a major role in sourcing skilled talent and solving operational challenges efficiently. The conversation covers CSI’s journey from its roots in Shreveport to becoming part of a larger corporate structure, and how these changes have balanced safety, innovation, and operational flexibility. Tyler gives insight into the company's culture, emphasizing the value of quick-response local support, a stable workforce, and a hands-on approach to management. The episode wraps up with future ambitions for CSI, their commitment to sustainability and efficiency, and some favorite spots to eat in Kilgore. Key Topics Discussed: CSI’s manufacturing and production scaleLocal partnerships and community supportGlobal operations and logisticsSourcing materials and Texas infrastructureWorkforce development with collegesCorporate culture vs local managementSustainability and efficiency in manufacturingEmployee progression and compensationOperational challenges and solutionsCommunity and company cultureCustomer relationshipsFuture plans for CSIKilgore local business recommendations Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

Kori Bowen, Vice President of Industrial Relations at Texas State Technical College (TSTC), joins "Super" Dave Quinn to explain how TSTC is fueling the Texas economy by connecting businesses with workforce-ready technicians. They discuss the college’s unique pay-for-placement funding model, emphasizing TSTC’s focus on high-demand, high-placement technical careers and direct industry engagement. The conversation illustrates how TSTC actively builds partnerships with both large and small businesses, tailoring training and education programs to meet immediate and long-term workforce needs. They also talk about how the college's statewide presence and its flexible, hands-on approach to training, ensuring consistency across regions while adapting to local economic needs. She also shares examples of grant opportunities, such as soft skills and leadership training, available to all Texas businesses regardless of size. Throughout the episode, the collaboration between TSTC, local economic development councils, and industry stands out as a key factor in supporting Texas' booming job market and helping businesses grow successfully across the state. Key Topics Discussed: TSTC’s unique funding based on student job placementCustomized training and partnerships with Texas industriesSupport for both large corporations and small businessesSoft skills and leadership training grantsStatewide campus coordination and local leadershipImportance of early engagement with local economic developersAdvice for business owners moving to or expanding in TexasPractical, real-world preparation for technical careers Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

In this episode of Gone to Texas, "Super" Dave Quinn talks with Alan Clipperton, Vice President for Global Initiatives and Industry Engagement at LeTourneau University. Alan shares how the university supports industry in East Texas through technical education, hands-on projects, and workforce development. He breaks down how LeTourneau partners with local businesses for applied learning and senior design projects, giving students practical experience while addressing real-world business challenges. The conversation also covers the process of moving university-driven intellectual property from ideas to commercial ventures, and the timelines and complexities involved. The discussion highlights the importance of personal motivation alongside technical skills, reflecting on changes in the workforce, and the evolving role of technology and automation in education and industry. Alan outlines ways businesses can engage with LeTourneau to find solutions for their workforce or technical needs and points out how the university’s approach aligns with the diverse industries in the Kilgore area. The episode wraps up with the significance of building closer relationships between the university, the economic development corporations, and local businesses to leverage regional growth and talent development.  Key Topics Discussed: LeTourneau University’s role in supporting local industryPartnering with businesses through education, applied learning, and senior design projectsManaging intellectual property and entrepreneurship at the universityThe impact of work ethic and motivation in workforce developmentAdapting to rapid industry changes and new technologiesCollaboration with Kilgore Economic Development CorporationOpportunities for businesses to connect with LeTourneau for workforce and technical needs Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

In this episode of Gone to Texas, "Super" Dave Quinn sits down with Brit Blacklidge, President of Blacklidge, a fourth-generation family-owned asphalt materials company. Brit shares the history of the company, how he stepped into a leadership role at a young age, and the challenges and rewards of running a family business. He speaks candidly about the realities of work-life balance, the importance of assembling a strong team, and how faith and resilience are crucial to his business journey. The conversation shifts to Blacklidge’s expansion into Texas, including why they chose Fairfield as their newest location. Brit breaks down the process of relocating a business to Texas, his experience partnering with the Fairfield Economic Development Corporation, and the practical challenges such as workforce and housing shortages. The episode also touches on what Always the Better Road means for Blacklidge, emphasizing a commitment to quality and reliability in their products and workplace culture. Brit closes with advice for business owners considering Texas, highlighting the state’s business-friendly attitude and the supportive community he’s found in Fairfield. Key Topics Discussed: The family history and background of BlacklidgeChallenges and rewards of running a family businessThe realities of work-life balance for business ownersWhy Blacklidge expanded to Texas and why they chose FairfieldNavigating local partnerships and economic development supportOvercoming practical challenges like workforce and housing shortagesCompany values: quality, reliability, and the meaning of "Always the Better Road"The importance of company culture and employee empowermentThe Texas business environment and support for new businessesRecommendations for policymakers on workforce and trade educationLocal insights and what makes Fairfield stand out Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

"Super" Dave sits down with Paula Phillips, a nationally certified occupational therapist and founder of Calibrating Lyfe, to discuss the importance of proactive health strategies for business owners and employees. Drawing on her extensive experience in hospitals and rehabilitation centers, Paula talks about the gaps in traditional rehabilitation systems and shares how her approach as a quality of life consultant helps individuals and organizations plan for wellness before illness or injury strikes. The conversation explores practical daily habits, the value of baseline health awareness, and the unique advantages of living and operating a wellness-focused business in Fairview, Texas. Dave and Paula also talk about how quality of life consulting provides actionable strategies for managing health risks and transitions, and how businesses benefit from supporting employee wellness. Paula talks about the supportive community in Fairview, her motivation behind founding Calibrating Life, and advice for entrepreneurs considering relocation to Texas. To find out more about Paula, visit: https://calibratinglyfe.com/ Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

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 manufacturingWhy Kilgore was selected and remains the hub for CPI’s operationsThe company’s worldwide impact, supplying both commercial and military marketsCommunity partnerships: Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore CollegeRecruitment and labor strategies, from skilled labor to engineering talentEmphasis on community integration, support, and STEM educationAdoption of emerging technologies: AI and 3D printingThe appeal and value of doing business in smaller Texas communitiesAlan’s advice for businesses considering a move to Kilgore or Texas overallLocal culture, dining, and quality of life in Kilgore Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

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 planningThe importance of serving diverse communities across Collin, Rockwall, and Denton countiesInvestments in affordable education, including low tuition and bachelor’s degrees under $15KProactive, employer-driven workforce development and skills trainingStrategic partnerships with ISDs, cities, EDCs, and major employersDual credit opportunities for high school studentsRegional collaboration as a force-multiplier for communities and business ownersCurrent and emerging workforce demands in aerospace, IT, healthcare, and constructionMaintaining small-town values amid rapid metropolitan growthDr. Matkin’s personal reflections on leadership, community, and family Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

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 TexasHow Texas distinguishes itself with a supportive, opportunity-focused business cultureChallenges related to taxes, legal, and operational complexities for newcomersImportance of separating leadership from management, and the Visionary/Integrator dynamicThe role of core values in team performance and organizational healthStrategies for unlocking growth and overcoming the plateauWhy finding the right community and connections accelerates successActionable steps for overwhelmed business owners (getting help, reading the “label,” considering a system like EOS) Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

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. Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com

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 apartThe importance of environment on productivity and mental health for entrepreneursCommon pitfalls for new business owners and the unique operational challenges they faceThe value of community, connection, and supportive networks in coworking spacesHow Texas—and specifically Fairview—offers advantages like cost-effectiveness, strategic location, and an entrepreneurial ecosystemAdvice for companies considering relocating to Texas, emphasizing the need to integrate with local communities and understand regional business nuancesWays in which Venture X supports small and mid-sized businesses beyond offering office space Get your free Texas business expansion or relocation resources today by visiting www.TexasEDConnection.com