Gone to Texas

In this episode of Gone to Texas, host "Super" Dave Quinn sits down with Amy Story, who runs the Boerne/Kendall County Economic Development Corporation (BKC EDC) in the Alamo region of Texas. Amy shares insights into the role of local economic developers in assisting businesses as they move to or expand in new communities like Boerne. She talks about the importance of having local connections and resources to navigate the nuances of establishing a business in a new community.Amy also discusses how her organization helps businesses from start to finish, whether they need permits or are looking for the right community fit. The conversation also covers the strategic focus areas for business growth in Boerne, including key industries like light manufacturing, biosciences, and agri-tech. Amy explains the innovative measures they have taken to foster entrepreneurship, such as creating an angel network and a co-working space called Das GreenHaus. She highlights the resources available to businesses and Boerne's supportive community environment. They also offer practical advice for business owners considering relocation to Boerne and the value of connecting with local economic developers for a smoother transition.To learn more about Boerne/Kendall County EDC, visit our sponsorship page at: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

On this episode of Gone to Texas, Super Dave Quinn welcomes Ed Dominion, President of D6 Incorporated. Ed shares his experience first expanding to Sulphur Springs, eventually making it their headquarters. He talks about how the Sulfur Springs, Texas community welcomed and supported his company's move, offering insights into the positive impact on the local economy and the innovative recycling projects they've implemented.Ed shares why he loves being a part of a small community in Texas and how his business has thrived while other areas of the country have needed help filling positions and growing. To learn more about Sulphur Springs, visit our sponsors page at: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

In this episode of Gone to Texas, Dave Quinn sits down with David Gillrie, President and CEO of Hoover Treated Wood Products, to discuss their expansion into Fairfield, Texas. David discusses why they chose Fairfield and why the central location was so important to their business. He also talks about the strategic importance of the Texas market and the role of economic developers in facilitating growth. From the challenges of building a new facility from the ground up to the importance of creating a supportive company culture, this conversation provides a wealth of knowledge for business owners considering a move to the Lone Star State. To learn more about Fairfield, visit our sponsors page at: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

Welcome to another episode of Gone to Texas. In today's episode, Dave sits down with Roger Treacher, the owner of Marching USA. Marching USA specializes in designing and manufacturing top-notch instruments and frames for the music education industry.Roger shares his journey from the United Kingdom to Texas when he was part owner of a snack food company and why he first picked the Dallas, TX area. He then talks about how his passion outside of work helped him discover the opportunity for his company, Marching USA, and why he moved his company to Gainesville, TX. He also discusses why he prefers the smaller town life versus the larger cities and why he has found it's easier to find the perfect employees being part of a smaller town. He also discusses why he feels the state of Texas is one of the perfect spots if you're a company that ships across the country.To find out about Marching USA, visit: https://www.marchingusa.com/To learn more about Gainesville and the economic opportunities there, visit: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

Welcome to another exciting episode of Gone to Texas, where we welcome Courtney Radloff, Founder of Purveyors of Fragrance. Courtney shares her entrepreneurial journey and the challenges she has faced along the way. From building a business from scratch and having to navigate the complexities of the fragrance industry to suddenly having to move her business from California to Texas, Courtney's story is one of determination and resilience. Courtney shares how she started her journey, and why she was able to grow her company so quickly. She also talks about running a business with her husband, and why she couldn't be happier with the decision to move her business to Texas.To learn more about Courtney's company, visit:https://purveyorsoffragrance.com/To listen to Courtney's podcast, visit: www.FirstToArriveLastToLeave.com

Welcome to another episode of Gone To Texas, where Dave Quinn welcomes Accasisa Martinez of Accasia's Event Venue in Fairview, TX. Accasisa talks about what it's like running an event business and how a post-COVID world and a desire for people to connect again in person inspired her to create her own business.They also discuss the ups and downs of running your own business and why being involved in the community has been one of Accasisa's biggest assets when growing her business. They also talk about how Fairview's EDC has been one of her most valuable resources in helping her not only get the business off the ground but helping her to continue to build.If you'd like to find out more about Accasia's Event Venue, visit: https://www.accasiaevents.com/To learn more about our sponsors, visit: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

On this episode of Gone to Texas, Dave travels to Paris, TX and talks to Besser Pro CEO, Willy Dyck. Besser is a manufacturer of axels for utility, dump, flatbed, car haulers, and live stock trailers. Willy talks about why he loves growing his business in Paris, TX, from affordable living costs to a helpful Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Paris' Economic Development Center has been committed to helping thrive, making new connections, and offering resources for growth. Willy also shares his personal experiences of balancing sales and production to ensure customer satisfaction while expanding the company. He talks about the importance of community connections, seeking advice, and utilizing local resources to achieve success. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities of doing business in Texas, and discover what the Paris EDC has to offer. For more information on this show visit: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/ Full episode breakdown: 1:15 - Meeting Willy Dyck, CEO of Besser Pro and learning how he became an extremely young CEO and how he started working at 12. 3:10 - Willy shares all about his expansion and how they're growing not just in Paris City, but to other states like Oklahoma and Arkansas. 6:03 - Willy talks about the the creation of his products and the problems they're working to solve with them. 6:57 - Willy discusses how he is working with Paris' EDC to help build his business and expand, and how they have been instrumental to his success. 8:20 - Willy talks about the number of his employees and plans for expanding. 9:46 - Willy discusses what his plans are for working within the community and even partnering with schools to create local training programs. 10:28 - Willy talks about his backstory, and how his family came from Mexico, and Canada and then to Texas. 12:30 - Willy talks about what is driving the growth for his company, and how COVID has actually helped his industry. 13:36 - Willy talks about what it's actually like to do business in Texas, and why he's so happy to have his business in Paris. 16:30 - Willy gives his one tip for someone thinking about moving their company to Texas. https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/

In this special episode of Gone To Texas, Super Dave Quinn is joined by powerhouse guests live from this year's Economic Summit and Leadership Conference hosted by Marshall, TX. Dave talks to Dr. Ray Perryman, President and CEO, The Perryman Group, Carlton Schwab, President/CEO of the Texas Economic Development Council, Aaron Demerson, Commissioner Representing Employers for the Texas Workforce Commission, and Rich Froeschle, Senior Economist at the Texas State Technical College System at Texas State Technical College. They discuss why the current global economy can have a huge impact on economies at a local level, and why it's important for small business owners to keep up-to-date on all of it. They also talk about the state of Texas' current economic status, and why businesses continue to flock here at record levels.They also discuss why the entire ecosystem is so important, from local high schools and colleges, to Chamber of Commerces and Economic Development Corporations, and why it's crucial that all of them work together to continue to develop businesses and a workforce that can support a thriving economy. Plus, they discuss what has worked well so far, and where business owners, who are interested in relocating to Texas, should start in their search for finding the right home. It can be an overwhelming process, but the great news is, that it's set up where you can easily find the help you need by connecting with the right resource.Thank you to Marshall Economic Development Corporation for sponsoring this podcast. To learn more, visit: https://www.gonetotexaspodcast.com/sponsors/.qBY8mzn09SdBRJyzpwH7

A thriving economy is only as good as the workforce development that a community is willing to build. Helping attract new students and work candidates to the city of Marshall, as week as preparing their current student body, are two large initiatives of the Marshall Economic Development Center.In this episode of Gone to Texas, Dave is joined by Bart Day, Provost for Texas State Technical College, Marshall Campus, and Richele Langley, Ed.D, Superintendent of Marshall ISD.Richele and Bart discuss the city's initiatives, including things like dual credits in helping kids explore their interests and getting them prepared on an accelerated scale to fill the needs of the Marshall workforce.They also talk about how programs are being developed at the Texas State Technical College to continually keep up with the local small businesses' demand and get the right people trained so they can have an impact immediately. They also discuss what they're doing to keep costs low and ensure their students will be placed in a job, in addition to how they're making sure they are not leaving out current Marshall residents. To learn more about the Marshall EDC, visit: https://www.marshalledc.org/ Full episode Breakdown 1:10 - Meeting Richele and Dale and learning more about their roles at Marshal ISD and Texas State Technical College, Marshall Campus. 2:20 Richele discusses their programs and why it's essential for them to educate not just students but also continue to educate current residents to keep them in Marshall.5:10 - Bart talks about the system and how they're constantly considering helping the small business owner with the education and training of their residents. 6:21 - Richele discusses the program's cost, and how they've considered making this as cost-effective as possible. 9:00 - Bart talks about some of the difficulties with helping so many kids who are first generation college students, and how they're overcoming it. 12:30 - From a future perspective, how does the education system keep up with the needs of business owners? Richele and Dale discuss how they're keeping up with the frequent changes. 15:48 - Richele discusses what they're pushing for in the future and why tradespeople are so important. 16:43 - Richele discusses what small business owners can do to connect with and communicate with educators to help figure out what's needed. 18:45 - Bart talks about what businesses can expect if a small business owner finds themselves with a need that may need to be filled. 21:49 - Bart talks about the money-back guarantee with their programs.

When they needed a more central location for their company, Texas seemed like the perfect spot. However, finding a place just anywhere in Texas wasn't going to cut it. After Lester Thornhill, CEO of Life's Abundance, did some research, and when he thought getting closer to Oklahoma may be a better option, one of his co-workers mentioned getting an email from the EDC of Dumas, Texas. Lester looked at the location, called the number on the email, and the rest is history.In this episode of Gone to Texas, Lester joins Dave Quinn to tell his story of expanding to Dumas, Texas, and why he calls Dumas the best city he's worked with.He shares the story of how he had to change some of their processes that worked throughout the country, and how he's built an incredible relationship with the Economic Development Center of Dumas.To learn more about our sponsors, visit: https://texasedconnection.com/sponsors/To learn more about Life's Abundance, visit: https://lifesabundance.com/category/dogfood.aspxFull Episode Breakdown:1:55 - Meeting Lester, and learning about his journey to the US, and what it was like coming here as an immigrant. 4:40 - Lester talks about how his technology background left him to Life's Abundance. 9:40 - Lester talks about how he discovered his love of business and technology. 13:34 - Lester talks about expanding to Texas, and why it was such an important place for them to build a location. 17:14 - Lester talks about why his company picked Dumas, and how it ended up being the perfect location. 18:33 - Lester talks about how life was so different in Dumas, and how they had to change how they usually did things to grow the warehouse. 20:48 - Is the EDC only there just to help people get incentives, etc, or are they truly problem solvers for businesses? 23:48 - Lester gives his one piece of advice for business owners who are interested in Texas.

Expanding your company to a new state can have many challenges, but imagine expanding to a whole new country.It's the story of Carsten Wagner, President and CEO of Wagner Tuning, and he joins Dave on this episode of Gone to Texas, to tell his story of expanding to the United States, and picking Kilgore, Texas as his location.Carsten talks about why he chose Kilgore and what convincing his family was like when no one really knew much about Texas. (And honestly, many of them thought it was going to be open spaces and cowboys.)He also talks about making a move during the pandemic, and how it went from exciting to sitting in an empty warehouse with nothing to fill it and no one to work.Carsten also shares his experience working with the Kilgore EDC, and what it's been like being able to connect with an amazing community. It's not just about being home for a business, but the opportunity to train local hires through the community college. He discusses the different ways he partners with the EDC and the Kilgore community as a whole.If you would like to connect with Carsten and Wagner Tuning, visit: https://wagner-tuning.comTo connect with Kilgore's EDC: https://kilgore-edc.com/Full Episode Breakdown:1:00 - Learning how the company grew and decided to expand and move from Germany to Texas.3:30 - Carsten talks about what it was like visiting Texas for the first time, and the charm that attracted him to it. 7:20 - Carsten discusses what their original plan was, and how starting that plan during the pandemic really messed everything up.9:35 - Once the items finally started coming together, talks about the next steps for Wagner Tuning and using their new facility in Kilgore.12:15 - Carsten talks about what's next for their business.12:45 - What does the local hiring environment look like? And how are they managing the specialist side versus hiring locally?14:10 - Carsten talks about being able to tap into the Texas economy and being able to capitalize on connections.15:45 -Carsten talks about working with the EDC, and what it meant for his company. 17:40 - Carsten discusses what one of his surprises was that came from working in Texas.23:40 - Carsten offers advice he would give to someone who wants to come and bring their business to Texas.

You may take for granted the sight of a windmill while driving. However, its an industry that's still thriving, and one of the industry leaders is right in the heart of Texas.Aerator Windmill was started in 1883, and has been in the forefront of the windmill industry since its inception. After being moved to San Angelo in 1986, it's been a staple in the city. In this episode of Gone to Texas, Dave Quinn is joined by Nick Ohman the General Manager of Aermotor Windmill Company to talk about the companies' beginnings, and how they continue to innovate and grow in an industry that many don't realize is still extremely relevant.Nick talks about their relationship with the city of San Angelo, and the partnerships that have been created to help cultivate a workforce. Nick also discusses how they determine to manufacture certain items vs. outsourcing, and what's on the horizon for this growing company. To find out more about Aermotor Windmill Company, visit: https://aermotorwindmill.com/If you would like to connect and find out more about San Angelo, and what they can offer you, visit: https://texasedconnection.com/sponsors/Full Episode Breakdown:2:00 Meeting Nick and learning more about how his company started. Plus we learn more about Aeromotor.5:00 - Nick discusses the process of the business and how it's progressed.7:40 - Nick talks about how they've been able to find the workforce to work for this very unique industry.9:30 - Nick talks about the reach of his product, and where his main territory is.11:40 - How much innovation has occurred in a windmill since 1933, Nick describes what still remains vs. what has been changed.14:22 - Nick talks about San Angelo and what how it's been finding the right people to work for them.16:45 - Nick talks about how they had to pivot, how they've continued to buy out competitors, and how they dominate the market.20:00 - Nick talks about how they determine what to manufacture themselves vs. having other companies take care of it.23:20 - Nick talks about why 20% of the people who purchase windmills don't actually use them for pumping water.26:20 - The guys discuss why the EDC of San Angelo has been so important to the growth of their business.

A town with just as much history as it has charm, nestled between two lakes, San Angelo has so much to offer. The beautiful thing is that not only is this a great place to raise a family, with a small-town feel, but it's a great job to build a company too.In this episode of Gone to Texas, Dave is joined by Wendland Manufacturing's President and Co-Owner, Wendall Hirschfeld. Wendall talks about the incredible history of his company, and how they help commercial, industrial, and municipal markets all over the United States.He also talks about how San Angelo has been an integral part of his growth, and how the EDC in San Angelo continues to be a support system for him as they grow and add new technology.He also talks about the charm of the city, and why after leaving for 25 years, he decided to come back and make San Angelo his home again. If you're interested in learning more about Wendland Manufacturing, visit: https://wendlandmfg.com/. If you would like to connect and find out more about San Angelo, and what they can offer you, visit: https://texasedconnection.com/sponsors/Full Episode Breakdown:Wendell talks about his history with San Angelo, and how his grandfather and father inspired to create his own company.3:10 - Wendall talks about the success of the company, and why he believes it's had such a great tenure.5:13 - The guys discuss why San Angelo has been such a great community for them to help them grow.6:26 - Wendall talks about the charm of San Angelo.7:20 - San Angelo Regional Manufacturing Alliance - learning more about that is, how it came about, and what the most important topics they tackle.11:10 - Wendell talks about their initiatives of getting their new buildings up and running, and why this is so important for them.11:55 - Wendall talks about his customer base, and where they're generally located.16:30 - Wendall talks about why San Angelo is a great place to leave, and why he came back after leaving for 25 years.17:22 - Wendall talks about how his dad had such a big impact on the local college in San Angelo.19:54 - Wendall talks about how he had his eyes opened to why they needed to upgrade their technology and systems.21:54 - Wendall talks about how technology is transforming his business.23:40 - Wendall discusses the work that's being done on the infrastructure, and the impact it's going to have on the community.28:30 - Wendall talks about San Angelo's EDC, and what makes them so special from other EDC's.

Find a need, make a great product, provide excellent customer service, and a business is born. It's the story of Priefert, a company founded by Marvin Priefert in 1964 and continues to be a staple in Mount Pleasant, TX.On this episode of Gone to Texas, Dave is joined by Priefert's Rocky Christenberry, who talks about the company's humble beginnings, how they pivoted several times to stay afloat in the downturns, and how they've continued to grow the company over the last 58 years. Rocky talks about how they found new opportunities by connecting with other companies in Mount Pleasant when one side of their business lost revenue during the 2008 recession. Plus he talks about how by saying yes when they weren't ready led them to one of their most prominent lines of business.Priefert has an incredible story of continuing through the hard times, making their people the most important part of their business, and being a staple in a community.You can learn more about Priefert by visiting: https://www.priefert.com/about-us/about-priefertThis episode is sponsored by Mt. Pleasant Texas, to learn more abut our sponsors, visit - www.texasedconnections/sponsor

Since 1985 Diamond C. Trailers has been a leader in building premium trailers, and they started right in Mount Pleasant, Texas. Jeffrey Crabb, CEO of the company joins Super Dave on this episode of Gone to Texas to talk about what it's been like continuing his family's legacy.They also talk about working with the city of Mount Pleasant, how the EDC has been an integral part of helping them grow their company, and what extraordinary growth in the past several years has meant for his business and leadership.They also discuss what's next for Diamond C. Trailers, and how being on the cutting edge of technology can sometimes be a challenge, but Jeffrey discusses how they continuously seek to bring on the best talent. You can learn more about Diamond C. Trailers by visiting: https://www.diamondc.com/To learn more about our sponsors, visit: https://texasedconnection.com/sponsor/

What if you could have an infusion of capital to help you with buildings or other items within your business that don't include an investor or a loan?Many business owners have no idea about the opportunities that are available through EDCs. In this episode of Gone to Texas, Super Dave is joined by Vince Bussio, the CEO and Founder of Armorock. Vince shares his journey of opening a plant in Sulphur Springs and how the EDC helped with millions of dollars with his building. They also talked about why Vince chose Sulphur Springs, and what the EDC team did that made the process so special. They also get into questions to ask and other things business owners need to know and understand that they don't have to do this alone.Vince also shares more about his business, and talks about how they've expanded to three plants, plus why the Sulphur Springs plant is only the beginning of their move to Texas.If you're interested in learning more about Armorock, visit: https://armorock.com/To connect with our sponsor, Sulphur Springs, visit: https://texasedconnection.com/sponsor.

What would it be like to pick up and move halfway across the world for the love of your life, only to also find the perfect opportunity to start your own business? It may seem like a fairy tale, but it's the true-life story of Dr. Jason Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of Hybrid Manufacturing Technology. Dr. Jones joins Dave on this episode of Gone to Texas to share his story of starting his company in England and eventually moving it back to the United States. He talks about what It was like starting in Europe, and why Europe ended up being one of the best places to start his business. However, he also talks about why it was important for him to eventually come back to the U.S. He discusses some of the problems he had to overcome with rebuilding here, and why innovating can be difficult when you're trying to own make sure you really are the first to market with the idea.To learn more about Dr. Jones, visit: https://www.hybrid-am.com/This episode is sponsored by: https://www.accelerationbydesign.com/

Imagine picking up your company from sunny San Diego, California and moving to Sulphur Springs, only to have COVID lockdowns begin only three days later.It's the true story of Karen Neola, Founder and CEO of My Perfect Pet, A Natural Pet Food company. Karen shares her story of how she started her company after tragedy happened in her own home, and how by just helping others her small home-based business turned into bigger building after bigger building. She also talks about her experience in researching Sulphur Springs, and what drew her to moving the company to this East Texas town.She also discusses the problems that COVID brought to the table, and how she has had to learn to navigate all kinds of new issues brought on by the pandemic, including supply chain, local sourcing and hiring from a small pool of potential workforce candidates.Want to learn more about My Perfect Pet, visit: https://www.myperfectpetfood.com/To learn more about the community of Sulphur Springs and their Economic Development Center, visit: https://ss-edc.com/

How can a university create opportunities for a greater workforce within its city?Dr. Jay Blair Blackburn, President of East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas, joins Dave Quinn on this episode of Gone To Texas to discuss the exciting synergy between Marshall, Texas and ETBU.People are on the search for a higher quality of life within the place they work, and in small-town East Texas, there are more options that are packaged with a high quality of life. ETBU is expanding to help not only create opportunities for its students, but to also build a workforce that will attract companies to smaller cities, like Marshall.Dr. Blackburn discusses the partnership between the City of Marshall and the University, and why this partnership is so vital to the community as a whole. He also talks about the holistic approach ETBU has taken in building their workforce, in addition to the opportunities they're creating with a new project called Synergy Park.To learn more about ETBU, visit: https://www.etbu.edu/Or to check out the City of Marshall, visit: https://www.marshalledc.org/

Barton Damer's entrepreneurship story is a bit different from what we usually hear. He wasn't a terrible employee, nor was burnt by his nine to five; he actually did enjoy his job and had a side hustle as a freelancer with digital arts in which he loved working on the weekends. With time, his side hustle started growing to the point that he had to make a choice; he was overbooked as a freelancer, and in 15 to 20 hours a week, Barton was making the same as he was making in his full-time job. Already Been Chewed started as a Design and Inspiration blog when the entire world was blogging, where Barton mixed pieces of art he found interesting and inspiring with his own work. By the time he decided to quit his nine to five and start his own studio, he already had a solid following and a brand. It was a no-brainer. Barton Damer is the Owner, Creative Director, and Founding Artist of Already Been Chewed, a design, motion graphics, and 3d animation studio. They work with some of the most iconic brands globally, like Marvel, UFC, New Balance, NBA, Disney, DC, Star Wars, and Nike, to name a few. Barton was named 2009 Digital Artist of the Year by Computer Arts Magazine and Veer Creative Catalyst Winner in 2011. Our conversation spins around Barton's decision to begin his own creative studio, his journey as a digital artist and entrepreneur, and his decision to start his company in Texas. He shared details of how two different injuries in both of his knees ended his skateboarding aspirations and opened artistic possibilities simultaneously. We also talk about the influence of skateboarding, Hip Hop, and basketball in his childhood and how that upbringing helped him connect deeply with most of the clients they work with at the agency. Resources:Visit Already Been Chewed website: https://www.alreadybeenchewed.tv/Follow them on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alreadybeenchewed/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlreadyBeenChewed/Twitter: https://twitter.com/bartondameror connect with Barton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barton-damer-92a32918/This episode is sponsored by Wylie, TX. Visit: https://wylieedc.com/

Altus Group Property Tax US helps its commercial real estate clients navigate and manage often-complex tax matters, so it's a good sign the company has high praise for the City of Keller for helping them solve its own real-estate matter: consolidating a few offices into a single, desirable location – on a tight deadline and in the middle of a pandemic.“Altus is a conglomerate of multiple companies primarily in the CRE industry. We focus on property tax, locations, and incentives, unclaimed property tax,” said Trey Beazley. He serves as president of Altus Group Property Tax US, leading more than 180 professionals across ten offices. “We also own a company called ARGUS, which is the platform on which most real estate companies run their cash-flow programs and manage their assets. We also have another group called RVA, which is under our Altus Analytics and does portfolio valuations for big pension funds. Everything we do is tied to real estate, from consulting and software product development. We gather a lot of data. We are a data aggregator, and we use this in our business operations.”When he began looking to consolidate a couple of local offices, he got in touch with developer Terry Wilkinson, who ultimately led them to a property adjacent to an event venue in Keller, The Bowden. The deal included acquiring the land in front of the venue and providing some community cross parking that would benefit events held at the venue by the city and community groups. Armed with some must-haves like the ease of access off FM 1709 and room to expand, Wilkinson identified the site and went to work with the City of Keller, who he credits with being fast, friendly, and helpful in educating him on the nuances of developing in the community. Wilkinson says while he's completed several projects in northeast Tarrant County, this experience in Keller was a first and couldn't have gone more smoothly.“Trey's leases on his other buildings were coming due, so there was a timeline that we needed to meet. That's where the city really stepped in to help. What in other communities could have taken six months we got done in 45 days here with the help of staff,” Wilkinson says.Beazley echoes that sentiment and adds that the community atmosphere of Keller sealed the deal.“One, we wanted a community feel. We wanted more of a household feel. We didn't want to be in a big corporate campus or a big corporate office location. We wanted to be somewhere where our employees could live close, they have good schools in the area, they have good shopping in the area, good retail, good hotels. All of that is available here,” Beazley says. “Part of the reason behind this was I had lived in this region for the last 25-plus years and loved the community aspect of it - the friendliness of it, the people. It was very dynamic when we started to bring other people in, employees from other locations, some from California, and they just fell in love with the community nature of everything here. That was really key for us because we don't operate from the standpoint of [wearing] a coat-and-tie every day. We are here where people are a family, and they feel it not just in the office but also in the community. And that was very important for us. Our retention of our employees is second to none. We have a long history of employees. I have had people with me for 25-plus years. We sold our company to Altus in 2013, and every person that was with me then is still with me today, and that was because of the community feel and family feel of being in a rural community.”Hear more about how transparency, relationships, and reciprocity brought commercial real estate consulting and software conglomerate the Altus Group to Keller, Texas, in this episode of Gone to Texas, the official podcast of Texas Economic Development Connection.Special thanks to our sponsor for this episode, the City of Keller Economic DevelopmentEpisode Sponsor: https://www.cityofkeller.com/services/economic-developmentTexas ED Connection: https://TexasEDConnection.com D1Experts: https://D1Experts.comAltus Group, Property Tax US https://www.altusgroup.com/en-us/

Gary Kappen says “only in America” could his story exist. And when you hear how his personal story and business evolved, you'll be thinking more specifically, “only in Texas.”Today Kappen owns, operates and serves as president of a company he founded in 2008 - William Grant Tank & Vessel, Inc. in Henderson. It's a company that has grown and turned a profit every year since it began (save the 2020 with its unprecedented circumstances). Kappen shares how far he's come. Not long out of high school in the early 1980s, he suddenly found himself without a plan after scrapping his initial path to follow his father and grandfather into the restaurant business. Technically born in Shreveport, Kappen's family's address at that time was in Texas, so he's always happily claimed it. The family initially had a restaurant, which they sold to a company that ultimately moved his father and family to Wichita, Kansas, and then Louisville, Kentucky. Kappen was 13 when his dad took a job with Kettle Restaurants and announced to the family they were moving - so appropriate for this podcast - back to Texas. Kappen recalls the excitement, and not just because dad informed him their beloved Dallas Cowboys would be on TV every week here.“Just that word: Texas,” Kappen says. “You know you are moving to a very exciting place.”In this episode, learn how that move was the first in a series of events that brought him right where he needed to be. Along the way, you'll hear Kappen recall with humor how he learned about the difference between bulls and steers, plus other important life lessons through FFA and living in a much more rural community. Kappen also shares his career journey from teen busboy/pancake flipper/management candidate to getting a break from a customer, which landed him on what he says is the lowest rung in a vessel shop. But from there, he worked hard, learned every part of the business over 21 years, and left the company as an officer. He helped grow another business locally before setting out with a partner to start their own: William Grant Tank & Vessel, which if you wonder, stitches together his and his cofounder's lesser-used names, which are also shared by a son of each founder.Highlights and quotes from Kappen about how doing business in Texas has been game-changing:East Texas Regional Development Company helped them secure an SBA loan that paired them with a local bank that backed their passion and ambition. A strategically structured deal with Henderson Economic Development Corporation (HEDCO) that catalyzed their success by providing land - critical leverage in further growing the business and creating jobs.“Northeast Texas is absolutely loaded with skilled workers. You are in Henderson but you are pulling from all around. What's funny is these people aren't going to get in a traffic jam on the way to work.”“Employees in Northeast Texas are loyal to the company they work for. People ask what kind of turnover we have, and there have been years when I have said “none.” One of the things you aren't going to find in Texas is there are not a lot of unnecessary regulations. So, if you'll just do things right - don't pollute the atmosphere and take care of the environment; make sure your people are safe and there is an environment of safety … Texas will leave you alone to conduct business. And I've never lived in another state as an adult, but I just couldn't imagine a state income tax.”Special thanks to our sponsor for this episode, Henderson Economic Development Corporation.Episode Sponsor: https://hendersonedc.com/Texas ED Connection: https://TexasEDConnection.com William Grant Tank & Vessel: http://www.wgt-v.com/D1Experts: https://D1Experts.com

Episode #6 | Guest Jessica Perno, Founder, Parent Day Out, Fairview, TXParent Day Out Founder Jessica Perno's journey from New York to Texas - and ultimately launching her tech startup here - began like that of many entrepreneurs, just looking to solve a problem she herself was experiencing. That led to a lot of research, including weekend playground surveys she conducted with a trusty clipboard in New York City, where she asked moms a simple question: “What would you do with a few hours to yourself?”Perno says the answers included a few that one might expect, like a date night with a spouse or a spin class. She said what was most revealing were the many blank stares and sometimes teary eyes from exhausted moms who perhaps didn't even realize how exhausted they were until someone even asked that question. She had another aha moment that steered her on her path during another research adventure in 2019, this time still a New Yorker and checking out the vibe at Dallas-area Whole Foods markets when deciding where she and her family would ultimately drop their pin on the map.Not long after, she and her husband, child, and pup made the move and launched their startup, Parent Day Out. “Parent Day Out is helping parents get a couple hours of their life back. We are able to do so because we recognize they can't do that unless they have childcare. So our online marketplace connects families across the country with early education providers and childcare centers so they can choose a participating childcare center that works best for them. They book their reservation, [they] drop off their kids; and they enjoy their parent day out,” Perno says.The platform is currently accessible via a mobile responsive website and covers the nation with content, so parents everywhere can use it to quickly gather information about communities and the licensed childcare centers, public and private schools within them. The database is searchable by zip code, and each school listing yields the data about their programs and more, plus the communities where they are located, down to the nearest Starbucks. Perno says finding well-organized information like this was impossible when she sought it in 2015was as a soon-to-be new mom. Instead of bemoaning the struggle and letting it rest, she nurtured the seed for a new company that now can help other parents. “Choosing childcare is one of the earliest decisions that you're even going to have to make when you become a parent, and it's a very important decision,” Perno says. “I thought that there had to be a better way, and it was time technology helped in doing that.”Perno's Wall Street background combined with her cofounder husband's tech background created a winning combination to launch Parent Day Out. The ability to work remotely aligned perfectly with their desire to seek a different environment in which to raise their child alongside “raising” a parent-and-child-focused business. And Texas provided the best possible crossroads where a favorable mindset, climate, schools, and resources for entrepreneurship seamlessly intersect.“Texas as a state made so much more sense to us. First of all, I think they have such a different mindset. They are very welcoming, especially for entrepreneurs and new ideas. They don't have the walls up, I feel, like as much as New York does. Or the skepticism. Texas behind California is the largest state in which we have the most childcare businesses. So we wanted to be closest to our customers,” Perno says. “For me, getting plugged into entrepreneurs here that are open to sharing their experience has really been extremely helpful. And they introduced me to people that they found helpful along the way.”Quick Links:Episode Sponsor: https://TexasEDConnection.com/sponsor (Fairview, Texas EDC)Parent Day Out: https://www.parentdayout.comDay One Experts: https://D1Experts.com

Texas EDC: Gone to Texas Podcast Show Notes & Social PostsEpisode #4 Michael Rufail, Founder & Chief Gaming Officer, Envy GamingIf you don't know much about esports yet, you will soon. But first know that since 2017, the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex has been home to Envy Gaming, one of the world's most valuable professional gaming organizations. The company made headlines last year for bringing on music megastar and fellow Texans native Post Malone as a co-owner. Founded by Texan Michael Rufail in 2007, Envy Gaming is a sports entertainment company that operates teams in multiple leagues and is best known for its highly successful Dallas Empire team in the Call of Duty league and Dallas Fuel in the Overwatch League.In this episode, learn about how Rufail grew up as a son of Egyptian immigrants in Lufkin, moved away as a young adult, and then felt the call back home in 2017 when he ultimately relocated his company here from Charlotte, North Carolina. You'll also learn more about how esports compares to other professional sports organizations, the company's plans for 2021 and onward, and of course, how the stars aligned to attract Malone to the fold.“He's just an interesting DFW guy. An awesome guy. Just really, really, really nice and cares about this metroplex, which is really cool,” Rufail says of Malone. “He's worked really hard to get where he is and I felt like he embodied a little bit of just not only DFW spirit but also the mentality that we like to take on in every aspect, which is just ‘Work really hard for what you get'.” Rufail explores that Texas spirit further, breaking it down into the many factors that led him and his company home, including savings from a favorable tax structure, a safe environment for raising a family, an overall lower cost of living, and how all of that translates into happier residents who are able to reinvest that money and energy into one another. “It's just a great place to be able to thrive. It's a place where you have opportunity to really thrive,” Rufail says. “ … People are just a little bit more capable here to do the things that matter in life, in my opinion. So I find it just a little bit more pleasant to live here. Obviously, the economic incentives are great, because you can grow a business and apply more of your earnings to the things that matter -- your family.” Special thanks to our sponsor for this episode the Melissa Industrial & Economic Development Corporation in Melissa, Texas. D1Experts: https://D1Experts.comTexas ED Connection: https://TexasEDConnection.comEpisode Sponsor: Https://TexasEDConnection.com/sponsorEnvy Gaming: https://envy.gg/Super Dave Quinn, CEcD: https://DaveQuinn247.com

With stints in a Costa Rican Jungle, the Big Apple, the City of Angles, and now the Town of Fairview, Texas, Mackenzie (Mac) Miller, founder, and owner of Mobility Outdoor Media, has led quite an adventurous life. With the ability to live anywhere listen to this episode as Mac shares why she decided to return to Texas to run her burgeoning enterprise.Day One Experts: https://d1expert.com Texas ED Connection: https://TexasEDConnection.com Texas ED Connection Twitter: https://Twitter.com/EconomicTexasMobility Outdoor Media: https://www.mobilityoutdoormedia.comEpisode Sponsor: Fairview Economic Development Corp. https://TexasEDC.com/sponsors

In our extended conversation, John shares how COVID has allowed his company to pivot into a new business line and how Texas has given him the resources needed to make the shift. Day One Experts: https://d1expert.com Texas ED Connection: https://TexasEDConnection.com Texas ED Connection Twitter: https://Twitter.com/EconomicTexasHVAC Manufacturing: http://www.hvacmfg.com/Episode Sponsor: Palestine Economic Development Corp. https://TexasEDC.com/sponsors

In this episode, manufacturing tech exec John Karamanos enthusiastically shares how a move five years ago from Silicon Valley to East Texas rapidly accelerated his company's innovation and growth. Before the move, HVAC Manufacturing employed around 15 employees. Now the company employs over 100 people and has expanded three times in its new Texas home. Karamanos and his wife and co-founder, Stella, have seen their company grow as quickly and efficiently as their easy freeway commutes. Not being stuck in traffic any longer is a handy analogy for what's happened for the family and company, too. “We are innovating more in East Texas than we were in Silicon Valley,” Karamanos says, pointing to how the tremendous savings from overall cost of doing business allowed them to reinvest in the company's R&D capabilities, bring most of those functions in house and now bring new technologies and products to customers much faster. The savings have also allowed them to invest more in their people, which he loves because they've found such talented, hard-working people to grow the team.“There's no way in hell we could have done this in California,” he says. “What's amazing is we did this with no outside investment. We did it all just basically taking the profits and reinvesting it back into it. Plus, the other thing that's really good is we came here and we've paid full benefits for everybody … a Cadillac plan for medical, dental, everything. It allowed us to come here and be competitive and get really good people.”Karamanos shares these and many other advantages to living and doing business in Texas with Super Dave Quinn, CEcD of Day One Experts' Texas Economic Development Connection. Special thanks to our sponsor for this episode Lisa Denton and the team at Palestine Economic Development Corporation in Palestine, Texas.D1Experts: https://D1Experts.comTexas ED Connection: https://TexasEDConnection.comEpisode Sponsor: Https://Palestinetexas.netHVAC Manufacturing: http://www.hvacmfg.com/

Welcome to "Gone to Texas," the official podcast of the Texas Economic Development Connection (https://TexasEDConnection.com). In this episode, you'll meet the host Super Dave Quinn, managing partner, and Chief Inspiration Officer for Day One Experts (https://D1experts.com) He introduces the show and shares about what to expect in upcoming shows featuring stories of business owners and CEOs who have relocated or expanded their business into Texas. Super Dave is a 5th generation Texan and certified economic developer who has been helping companies move to Texas for almost two decades. Day One Experts: https://D1Experts.com Texas ED Connection: https://TexasEDConnection.com Super Dave: https://DaveQuinn247.com