Texas Talks

No guest this time — just host Brad Swail breaking down three major Texas public policy issues affecting families, businesses, and local governments across the state. In this episode of Texas Talks, Brad examines the fallout from Texas' new summer camp safety rules, the state's new AI-powered regulatory efficiency platform, and Governor Greg Abbott's proposal to create a statewide prosecutor's office. The episode covers: • Texas' summer camp licensing crisis after the Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act • Why fiber optic internet requirements became a major point of controversy • Texas' new AI tool “Sam” and the push to cut red tape • How AI could reshape regulatory review and permitting • Abbott's proposed statewide prosecutor and the debate over local control • The balance between public safety, accountability, and county-level authority Together, these stories highlight a broader question: how can Texas respond to real problems without creating new ones through overregulation, bureaucracy, or excessive centralization? 00:00 — Intro + three major Texas policy issues 00:27 — Texas summer camp safety crisis 01:24 — Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act explained 02:16 — New camp licensing and safety requirements 03:42 — Fiber optic mandate and camp lawsuit 05:04 — Camp Mystic and broader compliance challenges 06:26 — Impact on kids, families, and Texas camps 08:17 — Texas launches AI-powered regulatory review 10:05 — Texas Regulatory Efficiency Office and “Sam” 11:28 — Vulcan Technologies and agent AI 13:16 — Balancing deregulation with safety protections 15:35 — Abbott's statewide prosecutor proposal 17:25 — Travis County prosecution deadline controversy 18:45 — Constitutional and local-control concerns 20:33 — Reactions from supporters and critics 22:05 — What this could mean for Texas criminal justice 22:52 — Closing thoughts Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores what separates effective public policy from policies that simply sound good. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Laura Arnold, co-founder of Arnold Ventures, and David Leebron, President and CEO of Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging discussion about evidence-based policymaking, education reform, workforce development, philanthropy, and the long-term future of Texas. The conversation focuses on a central question: how can policymakers create systems that produce measurable, long-term results instead of temporary political wins? Arnold and Leebron explain why data, accountability, and long-term thinking are critical to solving some of Texas' biggest challenges — from higher education and workforce readiness to housing affordability, infrastructure, criminal justice, and childcare. Major topics include: • What makes a policy actually “work” • Why data and accountability matter in government • Community college reform and “credentials of value” • Connecting education pathways to workforce needs • The role of philanthropy in shaping public policy • Why Texas lawmakers need trusted nonpartisan data • Housing affordability and infrastructure challenges • Permitting reform and economic growth • Criminal justice reform and public safety • Childcare data gaps and workforce participation • The importance of long-term thinking before problems emerge • Building opportunity and economic mobility in Texas The episode also highlights several major initiatives supported by Arnold Ventures and Texas 2036, including reforms to Texas community college funding and investments in student support systems designed to improve graduation and career outcomes. A major theme throughout the discussion is the belief that good policy making should be judged not by ideology or political messaging, but by measurable outcomes that improve people's lives. Looking toward 2036, both guests argue that Texas' future success will depend on whether leaders can stay focused on evidence, opportunity, and practical solutions that operate at scale. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas overview 01:44 — Laura Arnold and David Leebron introductions 04:02 — Focus, scale, and long-term policy impact 05:21 — Why Arnold Ventures tackles systemic problems 07:26 — What makes a policy actually work 08:41 — Community colleges and “credentials of value” 11:01 — Workforce readiness and education reform 14:23 — Why government needs better data 17:34 — Helping lawmakers make better decisions 20:31 — The role of philanthropy in public policy 27:12 — San Jacinto College partnership explained 31:18 — Housing, infrastructure, and permitting reform 33:27 — Criminal justice reform and public safety 34:35 — Raising families and the future of Texas 37:10 — Opportunity, long-term planning, and 2036 vision 39:35 — Final thoughts on evidence-based policymaking Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

What's really driving declining enrollment in Texas public schools — and how will AI reshape classrooms in the years ahead? On this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Chairman Brad Buckley, Chair of the Texas House Public Education Committee, for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of public education in Texas. Buckley discusses the major challenges facing schools across the state, from demographic shifts and declining birth rates to school funding pressures, learning loss, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in education. A major focus of the conversation is the surprising decline in enrollment across traditional Texas public school districts. According to testimony discussed during a recent House Public Education Committee hearing, Texas public schools have seen approximately 76,000 fewer students enrolled for the 2025–2026 school year. The discussion covers: • Why Texas public schools are seeing declining enrollment • Birth rates, housing affordability, and demographic changes • The growth of homeschooling, virtual education, and charter schools • Why some districts continue growing while others shrink • Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and their potential future impact • How school funding formulas struggle with declining enrollment • The long-term implications of lower birth rates nationwide • AI in classrooms and concerns about age appropriateness • Why Buckley believes teachers — not AI — should drive learning • The risks of AI replacing “productive struggle” in education • Data privacy, ethics, and accuracy concerns surrounding AI • Pandemic learning loss and ongoing struggles in mathematics The episode also explores major testing reforms coming to Texas schools, including the planned replacement of the STAAR test beginning in the 2027–2028 school year. Additional topics include: • Replacing one large test with shorter progress-monitoring assessments • Reducing testing anxiety for students and teachers • Providing real-time instructional feedback to educators • Why middle school outcomes are becoming a growing concern • Workforce readiness and the push toward higher-value technical credentials • Career training in engineering, cybersecurity, and STEM fields • Reducing administrative burdens and compliance mandates on schools Buckley argues that Texas must continue modernizing public education while remaining focused on core fundamentals like literacy, mathematics, and strong classroom instruction. The takeaway: the future of Texas education will depend on balancing innovation, accountability, and flexibility while ensuring students still receive deep, meaningful learning experiences. 00:00 — Intro + Chairman Brad Buckley joins 02:45 — Declining enrollment in Texas schools 05:37 — Housing costs, homeschooling, and demographic shifts 09:09 — ESAs and school funding impacts 13:25 — Long-term effects of declining birth rates 19:32 — AI in classrooms and education policy 21:51 — Why teachers should still drive learning 23:52 — Age-appropriate use of AI in schools 26:16 — Replacing the STAAR test 27:06 — Pandemic learning loss and math struggles 31:19 — Middle school outcomes and workforce readiness 34:05 — New testing models and real-time assessments 38:03 — Reducing school compliance burdens + closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores the region powering not just Texas — but increasingly the global economy: the Permian Basin. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Tracee Bentley, President and CEO of the Permian Strategic Partnership, and Jordan Wat, Director of Government Affairs at Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of energy, workforce growth, infrastructure, and community development in West Texas. The discussion begins with a striking reality: if the Permian Basin were its own country, it would rank as the fourth-largest energy producer in the world — behind only Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. But this conversation goes far beyond oil production alone. Bentley and Wat explain how the Permian Basin has become one of the most strategically important economic regions in the United States, supporting everything from electricity reliability and manufacturing to public education funding and technological innovation. The discussion covers: • Why the Permian Basin produces more than 50% of U.S. oil and gas • How drilling technology and AI transformed energy production • Why Texas energy production continues hitting record levels • The growing electricity demand driven by AI and data centers • Pipeline, transmission, and grid infrastructure bottlenecks • Natural gas, LNG, and Texas grid reliability after Winter Storm Uri • The role of the Permian in stabilizing global energy markets • Workforce shortages and the need for 176,000 additional workers by 2040 • Housing affordability challenges in Midland and Odessa • Health care access and specialty care shortages in West Texas • Water scarcity, produced water, and future recycling technologies • Career and technical education investments tied to workforce needs • Why literacy and workforce readiness remain major long-term concerns The episode also highlights how public-private partnerships are reshaping the region. Bentley explains how the Permian Strategic Partnership has invested more than $200 million into infrastructure, education, workforce development, and health care — leveraging those investments into billions more through state and federal collaboration. A major takeaway is that the future of the Permian Basin is no longer just an “energy story.” It is increasingly a story about building sustainable communities capable of supporting long-term economic growth. Looking toward 2036, both guests argue that Texas' continued success depends on whether the state can match energy growth with investments in roads, schools, workforce training, housing, water infrastructure, and grid reliability. The message is clear: the future of Texas is deeply tied to the future of the Permian Basin. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Energy overview 01:35 — Why the Permian Basin matters globally 03:22 — Record energy production and drilling technology 05:04 — Jobs, workforce growth, and the Texas economy 07:18 — Education funding and workforce pipelines 09:09 — Innovation, AI, and modern energy production 13:26 — Electricity demand, LNG, and grid reliability 16:24 — Infrastructure bottlenecks and pipeline capacity 22:04 — Global energy markets and the Permian's role 25:15 — Community life in Midland and Odessa 26:57 — Roads, schools, healthcare, and housing challenges 32:32 — Career training and workforce development 35:33 — Public-private partnerships and long-term planning 37:42 — Literacy, workforce readiness, and recruitment 45:06 — Water challenges and produced water innovation 47:22 — Looking toward 2036 + closing thoughts Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

What's driving Austin's economic boom — and can it keep up with its own success? In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Jeremy Martin, President and CEO of the Austin Chamber of Commerce, to break down the forces shaping one of the fastest-growing regional economies in the country. From explosive population growth to major infrastructure projects, Austin continues to punch above its weight — but that growth comes with real challenges for businesses, workers, and policymakers alike. Martin shares his perspective from nearly two decades of experience representing Central Texas businesses, explaining how Austin has evolved into a hub for innovation, talent, and global investment. The conversation covers: • Why Austin and Central Texas continue to outperform the national economy • The role of talent, universities, and quality of life in driving growth • How Texas' business-friendly climate attracts companies and investment • The infrastructure boom reshaping Austin (airport expansion, I-35, transit) • Housing affordability and the long-term impact of rapid population growth • The biggest cost pressures facing businesses today • How the Austin Chamber represents over 1,900 businesses across industries • The balance between growth, regulation, and fiscal responsibility • Why property taxes remain a key issue for Texas businesses • The role of local, state, and federal policy in supporting economic growth The episode also dives into emerging issues shaping the future of business in Texas — including the rise of AI, data centers, and the growing demand for energy and water resources. Martin emphasizes the importance of “taking care of the basics” — infrastructure, water, energy, and workforce — as the foundation for long-term economic success. Looking ahead, the focus is on maintaining Texas' competitive edge while ensuring growth remains sustainable and beneficial for both businesses and residents. The takeaway: Austin's success story is far from over — but staying ahead will require smart policy, continued investment, and a clear vision for the future. 00:00 — Intro + Jeremy Martin joins 08:15 — Austin's economy and growth drivers 13:08 — Infrastructure challenges and major projects 14:03 — Housing affordability and market trends 16:01 — Role of the Austin Chamber of Commerce 18:20 — Business advocacy and policy priorities 20:58 — Taxes, spending, and Proposition Q 23:21 — Water, energy, and long-term planning 24:19 — Data centers, AI, and resource demands 27:18 — Texas competitiveness and regional growth 29:24 — Property taxes and business impact 31:01 — Federal advocacy and D.C. priorities 33:35 — Airport expansion and global connectivity 36:05 — AI's impact on business and policy 41:31 — Closing thoughts Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode tackles one of the most urgent and personal challenges facing Texans today: the rising cost of healthcare. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Avik Roy, Co-Founder and Chairman of FREOPP, and Charles Miller, Director of Health and Economic Mobility Policy at Texas 2036, for a deep dive into why healthcare costs keep rising — and what Texas can actually do about it. The conversation begins with a stark reality: healthcare affordability has become a top concern for voters, even surpassing issues like property taxes. With employer-sponsored family coverage approaching $27,000 per year and out-of-pocket costs averaging around $10,000 annually for Texas families, the financial strain is reshaping both household budgets and business decisions. A major theme is how the current system distorts incentives. Rather than functioning as a true free market, U.S. healthcare operates as a heavily subsidized system where consumers often lack visibility into prices — and have little control over spending decisions. The discussion covers: • Why healthcare costs are rising faster than wages and inflation • How employer-based insurance distorts consumer incentives • The role of federal tax policy in shaping today's system • Why “free market vs government” is a false choice • The importance of competition, transparency, and aligned incentives • How monopoly power among hospitals and providers drives prices higher • Why past reforms — like surprise billing laws — sometimes backfire • The impact of vertical and horizontal consolidation in healthcare • How anti-competitive contracting limits consumer choice • Why Texas has made progress on transparency — but more is needed The episode also explores solutions that could reshape the Texas healthcare landscape. These include expanding price transparency, tackling provider monopolies, enabling more consumer-driven insurance models, and supporting innovative alternatives like direct payment systems and healthcare sharing models. Roy and Miller highlight promising developments already underway in Texas, including efforts to improve data transparency through all-payer claims databases and reforms targeting anti-competitive practices in provider contracts. Looking ahead, the goal isn't perfection — it's progress. Both guests emphasize that simply slowing the growth of healthcare costs to match inflation would represent a major win for Texas families and businesses. The takeaway is clear: the tools to fix healthcare affordability exist — but meaningful reform will require aligning incentives, increasing competition, and taking on entrenched interests within the system. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:30 — Why healthcare affordability matters now 01:13 — Cost of employer-sponsored coverage explained 02:00 — National vs Texas-specific cost challenges 03:12 — Texas vs California healthcare cost comparison 04:21 — Why affordability is now a top voter issue 05:21 — 53% cost increase over the past decade 06:41 — Why Texas policy drives higher costs 07:28 — Surprise billing reform and unintended consequences 08:24 — Incentives that drive price inflation 09:53 — Free market vs government: a false debate 10:14 — Why U.S. healthcare isn't truly a free market 11:17 — Employer-based insurance and tax distortions 12:23 — Why consumers don't behave like shoppers 13:23 — What a “healthy market” actually requires 14:17 — Transparency, competition, and incentives explained 15:25 — How subsidies can increase costs 16:09 — Insurance incentives and rising premiums 17:19 — Lack of price transparency in real-world care 17:58 — Switzerland as a model system 19:10 — Competition vs monopoly power in healthcare 20:29 — Real-world example: pricing distortions 21:42 — Hospital consolidation and market power 23:04 — Hospital Competition Act explained 25:02 — Why regulators struggle to fix consolidation 27:08 — Federal vs local enforcement gaps 29:33 — What Texas has done right so far 30:13 — Transparency reforms and data systems 31:05 — Anti-competitive contracting reforms 32:33 — Vertical integration and its risks 34:07 — What Texas still needs to fix 35:14 — Consumer-driven insurance models (ICHRA) 36:01 — Alternatives to traditional insurance 37:26 — Cash pricing and cost savings 38:04 — State employee health plans as a reform lever 40:31 — What success looks like by 2036 42:10 — Slowing cost growth as the first win 43:18 — Final thoughts + closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

What's really happening in Texas waterways — and why is so much trash ending up there? In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Robby Robinson, Field Operations Manager at the Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and Mike Garver, Chairman of Texans for Clean Water and a founding member of the Buffalo Bayou Partnership, for a firsthand look at the growing challenge of waterway pollution in Texas. Recorded in Houston after a live tour of Buffalo Bayou, the conversation explores what the team saw on the water — and why the problem is far bigger than most people realize. A major focus of the discussion is how trash actually reaches waterways. Contrary to common assumptions, most of it isn't dumped directly into rivers or bayous — it comes from everyday litter on streets, which is carried through storm drains and funnels into the broader water system. The discussion covers: • How Buffalo Bayou has transformed since the 1980s • Where waterway trash actually comes from • How Houston's storm drain system feeds directly into the bayou • The scale of the problem — draining over 200 square miles • The “bayou vac” system and how cleanup operations work • Why cleanup efforts only capture a fraction of total waste • How plastic pollution travels from cities to the ocean • The rise of microplastics and long-term environmental impact • Why Texas imports recyclable materials from other states • The economic demand for recycled plastic, glass, and aluminum • The limits of cleanup vs preventing pollution at the source • The case for a bottle deposit refund system in Texas • How other states (like Oregon) achieve high recycling rates • Policy barriers and the need for state-level legislation • Landfill capacity concerns and long-term waste challenges Robinson and Garver emphasize a key point: cleanup alone is not the solution. Even with daily operations, only a small percentage of total waste is removed — meaning most of it ultimately flows into the Gulf of Mexico. Instead, they argue the answer lies upstream — preventing waste from entering the system in the first place, particularly through proven policies like deposit-refund recycling programs. The episode highlights a broader takeaway: keeping Texas waterways clean isn't just an environmental issue — it's a matter of infrastructure, public behavior, and policy alignment. 00:00 — Intro + Buffalo Bayou tour recap 00:35 — What is the Buffalo Bayou Partnership? 01:37 — What the bayou looked like in the 1980s 02:58 — From “no man's land” to public space 03:44 — Where all the trash comes from 05:04 — Storm drains and urban runoff explained 05:30 — Scale of the problem: 200+ square miles 06:08 — Inside the “bayou vac” cleanup system 07:03 — How much trash gets collected weekly 08:10 — What happens when trash reaches the ocean 08:50 — Microplastics and environmental impact 10:23 — Why some trash sinks and some floats 11:17 — How unique is Houston's cleanup operation? 11:31 — Funding: public, private, and local support 12:38 — Cleanup efforts across Texas waterways 13:34 — Trash flowing downstream from across the state 14:17 — Policy discussion: bottle deposit systems 15:26 — Why Texas imports recyclable materials 16:29 — How deposit systems work in other states 17:39 — “Legislating ourselves out of a job” 18:11 — Why prevention beats cleanup 19:01 — Growth, consumption, and rising waste 20:06 — Industry pushback and policy challenges 21:18 — Economic and landfill impacts 22:53 — Landfill capacity concerns in Texas 23:39 — Why the problem is getting worse 32:12 — Final thoughts + call to action 34:02 — Where to learn more (Texans for Clean Water) Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how higher education will shape the state's workforce, economy, and long-term competitiveness. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Texas A&M Chancellor Glenn Hegar and David Leebron, President and CEO of Texas 2036 and former President of Rice University, for a comprehensive look at the future of higher education in a rapidly growing Texas. With millions more Texans expected by 2036, the conversation examines how universities are adapting to rising demand, changing workforce needs, and growing concerns about the cost and value of a college degree. A major theme is the evolving role of higher education — not just as a pathway to jobs, but as a driver of innovation, economic growth, and opportunity across the state. The discussion covers: • How Texas' population growth is reshaping higher education demand • The gap between workforce needs and degree attainment • Why more Texans need postsecondary credentials • The role of regional universities and community colleges • Affordability challenges and pathways to lower student debt • Differences between public and private institutions • The importance of leadership, flexibility, and institutional independence • Collaboration across universities and with industry • How research drives innovation and new industries • Texas' growing role in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing • Why space exploration is becoming a major economic opportunity • The future of nuclear energy and meeting rising power demand • The importance of K–12 readiness in long-term success • How policymakers can better align education with workforce needs The episode also highlights a key shift: universities are increasingly serving as hubs for talent development, research, and industry collaboration — all critical to maintaining Texas' economic momentum. Looking ahead to 2036, success will be measured not just by enrollment, but by outcomes — including workforce readiness, income growth, and the ability of Texas institutions to compete globally. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:26 — Why higher education matters for Texas' future 01:10 — Guest introductions: Glenn Hegar & David Leebron 02:14 — Texas A&M system size and statewide reach 03:19 — Growth across Texas universities 05:00 — Competing for students in a growing state 07:12 — Workforce demand vs degree attainment gap 08:51 — Expanding university missions and impact 10:18 — Growth of AI, semiconductors, and emerging industries 11:44 — Collaboration across universities and systems 13:13 — Interdisciplinary innovation and research 14:09 — Public vs private universities explained 15:55 — Leadership and institutional flexibility 17:09 — Affordability challenges in higher education 18:01 — Community colleges and alternative pathways 19:07 — Financial aid transparency and access 20:21 — Policy priorities for the next decade 21:57 — Investing in research and innovation 23:04 — K–12 pipeline and readiness challenges 24:59 — Space industry growth and Texas' role 27:35 — Economic impact of space innovation 30:37 — Semiconductor investment and workforce pipeline 33:10 — Universities and private industry collaboration 36:14 — Nuclear energy and future power needs 38:46 — Measuring success by 2036 41:15 — Final thoughts on leadership and opportunity 43:07 — Closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Most Texans don't think about environmental health — until something goes wrong. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Christopher Sparks, President of the Texas Environmental Health Association (TEHA), to explore the critical — but often overlooked — role environmental health professionals play in keeping communities safe every day. From restaurant inspections and water systems to disaster response and disease prevention, Sparks explains how environmental health workers operate as a kind of “silent infrastructure,” ensuring that daily life functions safely behind the scenes. A major focus of the conversation is how Texas is moving toward more uniform statewide standards, particularly in areas like food safety, while still allowing flexibility at the local level to address unique risks across different communities. The discussion also covers: • What environmental health actually includes (far beyond restaurant inspections) • The role of inspectors, code enforcement, and public health professionals • Why Texas is shifting toward uniform statewide standards • Senate Bill 1008 and the push for consistent food safety laws • How policy is implemented at the local level • Why consistency matters for businesses and public health • The growing strain from Texas' rapid population growth • Workforce shortages and the need for better training and recruitment • Water infrastructure, wastewater management, and grease disposal • How improper waste handling can impact public health • The role of environmental health in disaster response (floods, hurricanes, wildfires) • How professionals help communities recover and keep food systems running • The need for better data systems and statewide coordination • Why awareness is one of the biggest challenges facing the field Sparks also highlights a key issue for the future: as Texas continues to grow, the demand for environmental health services is increasing — but the workforce has not kept pace. The episode underscores a simple but important takeaway: environmental health may be invisible to most people, but it plays a foundational role in public safety, economic stability, and quality of life across Texas. 00:00 — Intro + Christopher Sparks joins Texas Talks 00:25 — What is environmental health? 01:08 — TEHA's mission and role in Texas 01:54 — Who are environmental health professionals? 02:41 — Natural vs built environments explained 03:59 — Policy structure: state vs local implementation 05:04 — Shift toward uniform statewide standards 05:56 — Senate Bill 1008 and food safety laws 07:13 — Why standardization matters 08:21 — Balancing uniform rules with local flexibility 10:18 — How the new law is being received 12:28 — Workforce size and challenges 12:50 — Population growth and strain on infrastructure 14:11 — Water systems and environmental health 15:23 — Wastewater, grease traps, and public safety 17:20 — Future challenges: growth and extreme weather 18:26 — Disaster response and keeping food systems running 21:26 — Crisis management and reopening communities 23:01 — Workforce development and funding needs 24:50 — Training gaps and lack of statewide curriculum 25:47 — Data sharing challenges across Texas 26:33 — Why better data improves public health decisions 27:45 — Priorities ahead of the 90th Legislature 28:53 — Workforce awareness and recruitment challenges 30:19 — “Silent infrastructure” explained 30:53 — Environmental health in emergencies 32:06 — Final thoughts + how to get involved Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores one of the most critical challenges facing the state's future: building an electric grid that can keep up with rapid growth while remaining reliable and affordable. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Pablo Vegas, President and CEO of ERCOT, and Jeremy Mazur, Director of Infrastructure and Natural Resources Policy at Texas 2036, for a deep dive into how Texas is preparing its power grid for the next decade. The conversation examines how Texas operates one of the most unique deregulated electricity markets in the country — and why that system is being tested by population growth, extreme weather, and rising demand from data centers and new industries. Vegas explains how ERCOT manages supply and demand in real time while forecasting long-term growth, while Mazur breaks down the policy shifts that followed Winter Storm Uri and how lawmakers are approaching reliability and infrastructure. The discussion covers: • How Texas' deregulated electricity market works • Generation, transmission, and retail explained • Post-Uri reforms and reliability focus • Supply chain and permitting challenges • Growth of solar, wind, and battery storage • The need for a more balanced energy mix • Water's role in energy reliability • Data center-driven demand growth • Who pays for new infrastructure • What drives electricity prices • Limits of current market incentives • Distributed energy and future grid innovation The episode also highlights a key policy shift: large energy users like data centers may be required to reduce demand first during grid emergencies — protecting residential consumers and critical services. Looking ahead, the conversation underscores a central challenge: Texas must not only build more power, but build the right mix of power to ensure long-term reliability and affordability. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:21 — Meet Pablo Vegas (ERCOT) & Jeremy Mazur (Texas 2036) 01:21 — Why Texas' electric grid matters more than ever 02:02 — Winter Storm Uri: what changed since 2021 03:09 — How Texas' electricity market works (3-part system) 05:03 — Policy changes and focus on grid reliability 06:20 — Texas growth and rising electricity demand 07:22 — ERCOT's role: balancing supply and demand 08:09 — Forecasting future demand and infrastructure needs 08:56 — Why power plants take years to build 10:22 — Supply chain issues and energy development delays 11:18 — How incentives shaped solar, wind, and battery growth 13:10 — Water's critical role in energy reliability 14:10 — Drought risks and power generation challenges 15:31 — Are we building enough power for the future? 16:55 — The imbalance in today's energy mix 18:48 — Why Texas needs a balanced portfolio of energy sources 19:08 — Legislative efforts to expand nuclear & geothermal 20:14 — Why renewables helped during extreme heat events 21:00 — The future of nuclear, geothermal, and new tech 22:05 — Market design flaws: not all electricity is valued equally 24:02 — Why reliability isn't priced into the system 25:26 — Data centers: massive demand growth explained 29:18 — Will all proposed data centers actually get built? 31:09 — Who pays for grid expansion? 33:00 — Transmission costs and rate impacts 34:43 — Ensuring fair cost allocation for consumers 35:28 — Can Texas handle future demand growth? 36:13 — Data centers as part of the energy solution 38:23 — New rules: data centers shut off first in emergencies 40:19 — Behind-the-meter energy (self-powered facilities) 41:23 — What will happen to electricity prices? 43:50 — Why Texas still has relatively low power costs 46:05 — Post-Uri reforms and grid resilience improvements 48:20 — Preparing for extreme weather in the future 49:54 — The future: distributed energy and grid innovation 51:30 — Final thoughts + Texas 2036 outlook Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Why are homes in Texas becoming increasingly unaffordable — and what will it actually take to fix it? In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Sean Dobson, CEO of Amherst Group, to break down the real forces driving today's housing affordability crisis — and why many popular explanations fall short. Dobson, a veteran of the mortgage and housing markets who correctly anticipated the 2008 financial crisis, explains how today's challenges are rooted in a mix of monetary policy, supply constraints, and structural issues within housing finance — not just the surface-level narratives dominating political debate. A major focus of the conversation is how historically low interest rates during COVID dramatically increased buying power, pushing home prices up roughly 60% in just four years. At the same time, rising rates have now “locked in” homeowners, reducing supply and making it harder for new buyers to enter the market. Dobson also challenges several widely held assumptions, including the idea that institutional investors are the primary cause of high home prices. Instead, he argues that these investors often provide access to housing for families who cannot qualify for mortgages under today's stricter lending standards. The conversation also covers: • Why housing affordability is near historic lows • How interest rates drive home prices more than most people realize • The long-term impact of COVID-era monetary policy • Why low-rate mortgages are “locking” homeowners in place • The real role of institutional investors in the housing market • How Dodd-Frank reshaped mortgage access after 2008 • Why the 2008 crisis was driven by fraud — not “subprime borrowers” • The growing burden of property taxes and insurance costs • Why housing is ultimately a local — not national — issue • How zoning laws and regulations drive up construction costs • The hidden costs of design mandates like garages and lot requirements • Why modular construction and innovation struggle to scale • The tradeoffs between expanding credit access and managing risk Dobson also outlines potential solutions, emphasizing that increasing housing supply and allowing more flexibility in home design could significantly reduce costs. He points to recent efforts in Texas — including smaller lot sizes and accessory dwelling units — as steps in the right direction, while arguing that broader reforms may be needed at the state level. The episode closes with a clear takeaway: solving the housing crisis will require difficult tradeoffs, smarter policy, and a willingness to move beyond simplistic narratives about what's driving the problem. 00:00 — Intro + Sean Dobson joins Texas Talks 00:25 — Dobson's background and predicting the 2008 crisis 01:23 — What Amherst Group does in housing and finance 03:10 — Why mortgages are more complex than they seem 06:01 — The power of the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage 07:09 — Why housing affordability is near historic lows 08:32 — How low interest rates drove home price spikes 10:31 — Why homeowners are “locked in” by low rates 12:12 — Supply constraints and Texas vs other states 13:53 — Property taxes and their impact on affordability 17:02 — Insurance costs and hidden homeownership risks 19:15 — What actually drives construction costs 21:11 — How regulation increases home prices 23:08 — Why housing innovation is limited 25:04 — The role of AI and construction efficiency 27:48 — Institutional investors: myth vs reality 29:23 — Why many renters can't qualify for mortgages 31:08 — Dodd-Frank and tightening credit access 35:02 — What really caused the 2008 financial crisis 39:15 — Expanding credit vs risk of foreclosures 41:49 — What Texas can do to fix housing affordability 43:50 — Closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores what it really takes to raise a family in Texas today — and what must hold up over the next decade if the state wants to remain a place of opportunity. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker and A.J. Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging conversation about the policies, pressures, and quality-of-life factors shaping family life across Texas. The discussion begins with a simple but important question: if Texas wants to remain the best place to live, work, and raise a family, what does that actually require in practice? Parker and Rodriguez argue that the answer goes far beyond economic headlines. It includes affordability, maternal and infant health, access to quality education, child care, safe neighborhoods, housing, and the everyday experience of whether families feel like they can build a stable and hopeful future here. A major focus of the episode is how growth is reshaping Texas. As cities like Fort Worth continue to add residents at a rapid pace, leaders are being forced to ask whether the state's success is truly working for Texas families — especially those who have been here for generations. Parker emphasizes that city government must stay focused on the basics while also addressing long-term quality-of-life issues, while Rodriguez brings a statewide lens to how those same pressures show up across Texas. The conversation also covers: • Why family well-being should be central to long-term Texas policy • Maternal and infant health challenges in Texas and North Texas • How simple interventions can improve outcomes for mothers and babies • Why child care affordability has become a major barrier for families • The importance of early childhood education as an economic issue • Housing affordability, infill development, and middle-income opportunity • The role of local government in supporting quality of life • How education and postsecondary attainment drive long-term prosperity • Why family-sustaining wages matter for choice, stability, and mobility • The balance between rural and urban needs in the future of Texas Parker also highlights Fort Worth's efforts to improve maternal health outcomes, support neighborhood revitalization, and expand opportunity through education and workforce pathways. Rodriguez underscores that if Texas wants to preserve its economic momentum, it must invest just as seriously in human infrastructure as it does in roads, water, and broadband. The episode closes with a clear message: the future of Texas will not be measured only by growth, but by whether families can afford to stay, thrive, and see a path forward for the next generation. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. 00:00 — Introduction to the Future of Texas series 00:29 — Why raising a family is central to Texas's future 00:52 — Guests introduced: Mayor Mattie Parker and A.J. Rodriguez 01:28 — Balancing public service, motherhood, and leadership 03:02 — Why families matter to the Texas miracle 06:08 — Growth, migration, and whether Texas is working for Texans 07:47 — Quality of life and what families actually want 09:49 — Maternal and infant health in Texas 12:13 — Fort Worth's maternal health coalition and practical interventions 15:05 — Health, education, and quality of life beyond birth 19:08 — Education, workforce pathways, and family prosperity 23:14 — Defining quality of life for Texas families 25:28 — Affordability, child care, housing, and health care pressures 28:34 — Housing affordability and local policy challenges 35:06 — Early childhood education and child care as economic policy 43:50 — Rural and urban family needs across Texas 49:35 — A long-term vision for Texas families 51:19 — The one metric that matters most by 2036 Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

This episode kicks off the Texas Talks Special Series: AI and Public Policy, a multi-part series exploring how artificial intelligence will reshape governance at every level in the years ahead. Artificial intelligence is advancing at an unprecedented pace — but can government keep up? In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Tanner Jones and Chris Minge, cofounders of Vulcan Technologies, to launch the series with a deep dive into how AI is already transforming the private sector — and why government risks falling dangerously behind if it fails to adapt. Jones and Minge explain how their company is working to bring “frontier AI” into state and federal government, giving policymakers the tools to better understand laws, budgets, and regulatory systems in real time. They argue that without modernization, the gap between private-sector innovation and government capability could grow so wide that it undermines effective governance. The discussion also dives into the structural problems holding government back — from outdated procurement systems to legacy vendors delivering obsolete technology — and how those inefficiencies impact everything from permitting to policymaking. The conversation also covers: • Why government technology often lags years behind the private sector • How outdated procurement systems slow innovation and increase costs • The risks of governments relying on outdated AI models • Why AI should serve as a tool for policymakers — not replace them • How Vulcan's platform helps navigate massive legal and regulatory datasets • The challenge of building clean, usable government data from fragmented systems • How AI can reduce months-long processes (like permitting) down to days • The dangers of a fragmented, state-by-state regulatory patchwork • Why startups — not just legacy vendors — are critical to innovation in government • How Texas is positioning itself as a national leader in AI-driven governance • The broader economic and policy implications of AI adoption Jones and Minge also highlight real-world results, including dramatic reductions in time spent on routine government tasks and the ability for public servants to focus more on high-level policy work instead of clerical processes. Looking ahead, they argue that states like Texas that successfully integrate AI into governance will see faster economic growth, more efficient public services, and a stronger competitive advantage — while those that fail to adapt risk falling further behind. 00:00 — Introduction to AI and public policy series 00:27 — Tanner Jones and Chris Minge introduce Vulcan Technologies 01:10 — Founders' background and company origin story 02:28 — The growing gap between private sector and government tech 03:55 — Why outdated government tech threatens the “Republic” 05:10 — Procurement failures and legacy vendors explained 06:59 — Why citizens often have better AI tools than government 07:47 — Are government buyers equipped to evaluate tech? 09:08 — How AI models rapidly become outdated 10:38 — Concerns about AI accuracy, hallucinations, and control 11:49 — AI as a tool vs decision-maker in government 13:13 — What happens if government falls too far behind 14:38 — Procurement bottlenecks and adoption challenges 16:10 — Vendor lock-in and inflated government tech costs 17:54 — Why Vulcan ships updates differently 18:58 — Real-world use cases: governors and policymaking tools 20:15 — Navigating legal, budget, and regulatory systems with AI 21:26 — Why generic AI tools fail for government use 22:42 — Building massive legal datasets from scratch 24:06 — The challenge of unusable government data (PDFs, scans) 26:17 — Texas innovation and the Regulatory Efficiency Office 27:47 — The risks of a fragmented AI regulatory patchwork 29:20 — Balancing AI innovation with necessary guardrails 31:16 — Compliance challenges and FedRAMP 33:02 — Real-world example: fixing permitting bottlenecks 35:23 — What becomes possible with AI in government 37:08 — Cleaning up contradictory laws and regulations 38:43 — Real results: time savings and productivity gains 41:21 — The future of AI-driven governance in Texas 44:06 — Economic growth and competitive advantage from AI adoption 45:03 — Closing thoughts and where to learn more Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how Texas courts and the justice system must evolve to serve a rapidly growing state. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Chief Justice Wallace B. Jefferson, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas, and Luis Soberon, Senior Policy Advisor and In House Counsel at Texas 2036, for a forward-looking conversation about the future of courts, access to justice, and judicial reform in Texas. As Texas adds more residents, more businesses, and more complexity to its economy, the demands on the justice system are growing as well. Chief Justice Jefferson and Soberon discuss how population growth affects everything from family law and criminal dockets to business disputes and court backlogs — and why the state must modernize now if it wants to preserve public trust and timely access to justice by 2036. The conversation also examines how Texas courts have already evolved through electronic filing, virtual hearings, and greater public transparency, while also looking ahead to the next wave of change driven by AI, data systems, and digital tools that could make the justice system more accessible and more efficient. The discussion also covers: • Why access to justice still depends too heavily on who can afford a lawyer • How legal aid, pro bono work, and technology can help narrow that gap • The role of e-filing, courtroom livestreams, and digital systems in modernizing courts • How AI could improve legal access and court administration without replacing human judgment • Why Texas may need more courts, more judges, and stronger court funding as the state grows • Whether partisan judicial elections still make sense in a more populous and polarized Texas • Why court data and transparency are essential to understanding backlog, performance, and reform • How simple changes like text reminders and clearer notices can improve compliance and reduce harm • Why backlog reduction and access to justice may be the clearest markers of success by 2036 Chief Justice Jefferson argues that Texas should aim to become a national leader in ensuring every resident can protect their most basic rights in court, while Soberon emphasizes that better data, smarter administration, and sustained investment will be critical if the justice system is going to keep pace with Texas's future. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. 00:00 — Introduction to the Future of Texas series and today's justice focus 00:29 — Why population growth puts pressure on Texas courts 01:14 — Guests introduced: Chief Justice Wallace B. Jefferson and Luis Soberon 02:26 — What it means for justice to evolve in a growing state 03:22 — Access to justice and why cost remains the biggest barrier 04:15 — Technology, remote hearings, and how courts have already changed 05:44 — Chief Justice Jefferson on modernizing the Texas court system 07:16 — AI, court technology, and the future of legal access 09:53 — The growing gap between people who have lawyers and people who do not 11:22 — Legal aid, self-help tools, and high-volume civil cases 15:20 — How AI could transform legal work without replacing judges or lawyers 20:04 — How growth affects court demand, specialization, and business courts 24:25 — More judges, more courts, and pressure on judicial elections 27:53 — Can judicial independence survive a hyperpartisan environment? 32:23 — What a chief justice actually does in the Texas court system 37:30 — The data problem in Texas courts and why it matters 41:06 — How better data could reveal backlog, performance, and reform needs 47:30 — Transparency, text reminders, and making courts easier to navigate 53:08 — State policy changes needed to modernize Texas justice 56:16 — The one metric that will show whether Texas got it right by 2036 Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Marc Levin, Chief Policy Counsel at the Council on Criminal Justice, for a wide-ranging conversation about where criminal justice reform stands in Texas today — and what lawmakers should be focused on next. Levin reflects on his long history in Texas criminal justice policy, from the 2007 reforms that helped the state avoid building thousands of new prison beds to the current push for a smarter, more data-driven justice system. He explains why public safety remains the core mission of government, but argues that Texas works best when policy is guided by proportionality, fairness, accountability, and evidence about what actually reduces crime and recidivism. The conversation explores recent reforms from the 89th Texas Legislature, including expanded pretrial funding, parole process changes through the Sunset review of TDCJ, and the constitutional amendment updating bail rules. Levin also discusses why plea bargaining deserves more scrutiny, how better data could help policymakers compare sentences and outcomes across counties, and why transparency matters if Texas wants to know whether its justice system is truly working. The discussion also covers: • The importance of pretrial services and front-loading treatment and support • Geriatric parole and streamlining release decisions for low-risk elderly inmates • Why Texas still needs better sentencing and recidivism data • The debate over prison air conditioning and what “smart justice” should mean • How AI can help solve crimes and inform decisions — without replacing human judgment • Why veterans need better identification and support within the justice system • Clean slate proposals for automatic record sealing of minor misdemeanors • Fentanyl testing strips as a harm-reduction tool to save lives • “Second look” sentencing for people who committed serious crimes as juveniles • Why trust in the justice system may be just as important as recidivism rates Levin makes the case that Texas has already shown it can lower both crime and incarceration at the same time — but only if lawmakers keep focusing on reforms that are practical, measurable, and rooted in outcomes rather than rhetoric. 00:00 — Introduction and Marc Levin joins the podcast 01:05 — Marc Levin's background and Texas criminal justice reform history 03:38 — What a smarter justice system actually looks like 05:16 — The biggest reforms from the 89th Texas Legislature 06:45 — Pretrial services, treatment, and front-loaded support 08:29 — Plea bargains, coercion, and the “trial penalty” 10:47 — Why Texas needs better sentencing and justice system data 12:45 — TDCJ Sunset review and parole process changes 16:18 — Prison air conditioning and the debate over humane conditions 19:17 — Why solving more crimes matters more than harsher conditions 21:36 — How AI is changing criminal justice policy 24:24 — Risk assessments, facial recognition, and guardrails for AI 29:00 — Priorities for the 90th Texas Legislature 29:45 — Veterans justice reform and better reentry support 34:08 — Clean slate policy and sealing minor misdemeanor records 35:54 — Fentanyl testing strips and harm reduction 38:06 — Second look sentencing for juveniles 40:18 — Is recidivism the best metric for justice reform? 43:26 — Long-term Texas trends in crime, incarceration, and reform 45:13 — Final thoughts: data, trust, and what Texas should do next Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how rapid population growth is reshaping the state — and what it will take to manage that growth successfully over the next decade. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Henry Cisneros, former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and former mayor of San Antonio, and A.J. Rodriguez, Executive Vice President at Texas 2036, for a deep dive into the rise of Texas “mega regions” — particularly the fast-growing Austin–San Antonio corridor. With Texas now exceeding 31 million residents and continuing to grow rapidly, the conversation focuses on how interconnected metropolitan regions — including the broader Texas Triangle — are becoming the true drivers of economic growth, population expansion, and global competitiveness. Cisneros and Rodriguez explain that Texas is no longer defined primarily by rural or energy-based economies, but by large, dynamic urban regions producing the majority of the state's GDP. They argue that the key challenge ahead is not whether Texas will grow — but whether leaders can plan effectively to manage that growth. The discussion also covers: • The rise of the Austin–San Antonio mega region and the broader Texas Triangle • Why regional collaboration — not city-by-city planning — is critical to future success • Housing affordability challenges and the risks of underbuilding • Water supply, infrastructure gaps, and long-term sustainability concerns • Transportation bottlenecks, congestion, and the need for rail and mobility innovation • Workforce development, education, and closing the postsecondary attainment gap • Economic mobility, poverty challenges, and the importance of human capital investment • Lessons from other global regions that failed — or succeeded — in managing growth The conversation highlights a central theme: Texas is at a pivotal moment. With the right planning, coordination, and investment, it could become one of the most dynamic economic regions in the world — but failure to act could lead to congestion, affordability crises, and missed opportunity. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. 00:00 — Introduction to Texas growth and the Future of Texas series 00:25 — Texas population growth and rise of mega regions 01:15 — Guests introduced: Henry Cisneros and A.J. Rodriguez 02:01 — Urbanization and the Texas Triangle explained 03:36 — Why Texas growth is inevitable — and what's at stake 05:09 — Regionalism and planning for 2036 population growth 06:18 — Austin–San Antonio mega region and regional identity 08:14 — Economic power of Texas metro regions 09:44 — Texas as a global economic competitor 10:38 — Collaboration vs competition between cities 11:32 — Infrastructure challenges: transportation and congestion 16:11 — Water supply risks and long-term planning 18:43 — Housing affordability and supply challenges 22:08 — Economic mobility and poverty concerns 25:02 — Workforce development and education gaps 29:00 — Need for regional coordination and governance structures 32:04 — Rail, mobility innovation, and future transportation 37:00 — Role of state government and policy coordination 41:34 — Lessons from other regions that failed to plan 45:13 — Global competition and Texas's economic potential 52:17 — Preparing the workforce for AI and future jobs 54:56 — What Texas must focus on before 2036 57:04 — Final vision: what Texas could become if done right Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores a critical question: how does Texas ensure its economic growth translates into real opportunity, mobility, and purpose for its people? In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail is joined by Roy Spence, co-founder and longtime chairman of GSD&M and founder of the Make It Movement and the Purpose Institute, along with Renzo Soto, Deputy Director of Education and Workforce Policy at Texas 2036, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of work in Texas. The discussion focuses on skills, workforce readiness, career awareness, and how Texas can better connect students and workers to meaningful, high-opportunity careers. Soto explains how Texas is trying to align education and workforce systems earlier and more effectively, including through dual credit, career and technical education, outcomes-based funding, and better data connections between schools, colleges, and the labor market. Spence argues that Texas does not just have a workforce challenge — it has a marketing challenge. He makes the case that young Texans and their families need clearer, more inspiring language around purpose, careers, and financial independence, and that the state must do a far better job of showing students the real opportunities available to them while they are still in school. The conversation also explores: • Why Texas is outperforming much of the country on enrollment and workforce growth • The “90-60-30” challenge in postsecondary attainment • How dual credit, CTE, and early career exploration can change student outcomes • Why purpose matters just as much as paycheck • How AI is reshaping work and why AI literacy matters for students and workers • The importance of better education-to-workforce data • Why Texas can lead the nation by helping more people “make it in Texas” This is a big-picture conversation about how Texas can turn growth into real opportunity — not just for students entering the workforce, but for workers, families, and communities across the state. 00:00 — Introduction to the Future of Texas series and guest introductions 00:57 — Roy Spence on purpose, partnership, and marketing as a force for good 04:05 — Renzo Soto on why the future of work matters to Texas 2036 05:35 — The “90-60-30” challenge and postsecondary opportunity in Texas 07:18 — Why Texas is bucking national enrollment trends 11:10 — Roy Spence on purpose, talent, and not trying to be average 14:04 — The marketing problem: making Texans aware of career pathways 17:23 — Choice, purpose, and helping young people discover meaningful work 19:59 — Stress points in Texas: credentials, awareness, and workforce shortages 20:46 — Why better data is critical to workforce alignment 25:14 — AI, disruption, and preparing students for a changing economy 30:25 — How to make skilled careers exciting and purposeful 33:23 — What parents want and the case for financial independence 36:41 — Why early exploration and CTE opportunities matter 42:05 — What Texas is doing right on outcomes and accountability 48:49 — Rebranding pathways and measuring how many Texans are “making it” 57:22 — Final thoughts on success, purpose, and the Texas identity Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Brad Swail welcomes Charles Blain—Houston Chronicle contributor, Manhattan Institute City Journal writer, Fox 26 panelist, author of the forthcoming The Brotherhood of Facts (Johns Hopkins Press, spring 2027), and founder of Local Insights.  Charles shares how an accidental AI-assisted review of Houston Metro contract documents uncovered a $215k-to-$4.2M ballooning deal tied to board chair conflicts—ultimately leading to cancellation after public pushback. He explains how Local Insights aggregates Texas local government data (budgets, bonds, agendas, campaign finance, property records, business ownerships, jail stats, court filings) into searchable dashboards, cross-references, trend alerts, and interrogatable interfaces—empowering everyday citizens, journalists, and activists to hold officials accountable without needing newsroom resources.  They discuss AI's role in leveling the civic playing field: parsing dense agendas, flagging anomalies, aiding open records fights, and educating users on government mechanics (strong vs. weak mayor systems, charters, CAFRs vs. budgets). Charles critiques Trump-era talk of banning institutional homebuyers (mostly mom-and-pop investors, not mega-corps) and argues Texas should focus on permitting reform, standardized processes, property tax relief (e.g., incentives for first-time buyers near aging parents), and deeper transparency mandates to boost affordability.  Essential for anyone tracking Texas local governance, transparency, housing policy, or AI in public accountability. Visit localinsights.ai (or follow @CJBlain10 on X) for more. Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify for Texas Talks. 00:00:00 - Welcome to Texas Talks 00:00:06 - Guest Intro: Charles Blain – Writer, Commentator & Founder of Local Insights 00:00:51 - Meeting in Person After Years of Online Collaboration 00:01:36 - Charles's Background: Houston Chronicle, City Journal, Fox 26, Forthcoming Book 00:02:19 - Origin of Local Insights: Accidental AI Use on Houston Metro Contract 00:03:45 - Metro Scandal Breakdown: $215k → $4.2M Contract & Board Chair Conflict 00:05:30 - How AI Flagged Issues & Led to Contract Cancellation 00:06:26 - Building Tools: From Templates to Civic Data Platform 00:07:23 - Hermann Park / Ben Taub Eminent Domain Dashboard Example 00:08:06 - Civic Engagement Mission: Leveling the Field for Citizens 00:09:35 - Who It's For: Citizens, Journalists, Busy People Seeking Transparency 00:10:23 - Presentation to Water Board Directors & Early Demand 00:11:41 - Special Purpose Districts, Water Districts & Citizen Tools 00:12:51 - Full Platform: Every Texas Local Government Data (Budgets, Bonds, Agendas, Campaign Finance) 00:13:40 - Cross-Referencing: TDCJ, Campaign Finance, Property Records, Business Ownership 00:15:19 - Agenda Interrogation, Alerts & Jurisdiction Comparisons 00:17:11 - State-Level Data (Contracts, Legislative, Open Records) 00:18:13 - Public Information Act Tools: Collaboration, Filing Help & Trends 00:19:51 - Disappointing Need for This Tool + Future of Civic Transparency 00:21:22 - Educational Library: Government Basics (Strong/Weak Mayor, Charters, CAFRs) 00:22:51 - Property Taxes Confusion at Council Meetings & Clear Visuals 00:24:40 - Building Connections: Why Votes Happen, Potential Anomalies 00:26:34 - State Policy Ideas: Standardization, Deeper Transparency Mandates 00:27:35 - Jail Data, Court Filings & Missing Details Across Counties 00:29:02 - Personal Financial Statements & Persistent Denial Issues 00:30:31 - Who Uses It: Busy Citizens, Journalists, Activists 00:31:47 - Urgency: Local Accountability Drives Bigger Change 00:32:26 - Housing & Institutional Investors: Critique of Ban Proposals 00:33:47 - Mom-and-Pop vs. Mega Investors & Affordability Realities 00:35:21 - State Fixes: Property Tax Relief, First-Time Buyer Incentives 00:36:57 - Permitting Reform & Standardization as Key to Affordability 00:39:56 - AI in Permitting, Protests & Exemption Tracking 00:41:51 - Closing Thanks & Plugs: @CJBlain10 on Social   Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Brad Swail sits down with Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath and Mary Lynn Pruneda (Texas 2036 Director of Education & Workforce Policy) for a forward-looking conversation on the future of Texas public education. They discuss post-COVID recovery (literacy at all-time highs, math still climbing), the game-changing Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) shifting to performance-based pay and creating more six-figure teacher salaries, the role of timeless classics vs. accelerating technology (robots, AI, tablets), parental guidance on AI/ChatGPT risks, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) growth and school choice diversity, A-F accountability rigor increases, why leadership matters more than funding alone, extended learning time incentives, and the key metrics Texas 2036 is tracking—on-grade reading/math proficiency and career readiness—for Texas to thrive by its 2036 bicentennial. Perfect for parents, educators, policymakers, and anyone tracking Texas schools. Visit texas2036.org for progress tracking. Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for the Future of Texas series. 00:00:08 - Welcome & Series Intro: Future of Texas Education 00:00:33 - Guest Introductions: Commissioner Mike Morath & Mary Lynn Pruneda 00:01:07 - Why They're Optimistic About Texas Education's Future 00:03:01 - Where Texas Stands Today: Post-COVID Literacy & Math Recovery 00:05:03 - Biggest Reform to Celebrate: Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) 00:06:31 - How TIA Works: Merit Pay, Six-Figure Salaries & Projected Growth 00:08:45 - Education in 2036: Technology Acceleration & Enduring Fundamentals 00:09:50 - Robots, AI & the Chinese Boomi Example 00:11:14 - Why Classics & Timeless Wisdom Still Matter Most 00:13:51 - Smart Use of Tech Tools vs. Replacing Good Teaching 00:15:46 - Math & Science as Immutable Foundations 00:17:56 - AI/ChatGPT in Schools: Opportunities & Parental Risks 00:20:13 - Controlled Tech Access & Building Discernment 00:23:10 - Intentionality: Avoiding "Shiny" Tech Distractions 00:25:06 - Education Savings Accounts (ESAs): Early Demand & Future Growth 00:27:02 - School Choice, Competition & Diversity of Options 00:29:33 - Accountability: A-F Ratings, Rigor Increases & Interventions 00:33:22 - Funding vs. Leadership: Why Management Choices Matter More 00:36:12 - Extended Learning Time Incentives & Global Comparisons 00:38:19 - Texas 2036 Tracking: On-Grade Reading/Math & Career Readiness 00:39:12 - Recruiting, Supporting & Retaining Great Teachers by 2036 00:41:21 - Closing Thoughts & Call to Action: texas2036.org Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

After the 2026 primaries delivered a fresh wave of “new blood” in the Legislature, will property taxes finally get crushed… or will the same old insider games continue? In this hard-hitting episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Jeramy Kitchen, President of Texas Policy Research and the driving force behind the brand-new Texas Liberty Compact. Jeramy breaks down exactly what the primary results mean for the 90th Legislature, why compression beats gimmick exemptions, how to finally kill taxpayer-funded lobbying, and the 10 structural reforms that could reshape Texas for a generation. If you're tired of skyrocketing property taxes, backroom deals, and government bloat — this is the episode you've been waiting for. What you'll learn: • Why “new blood” in Austin is both exciting and risky • The REAL difference between homestead exemptions and true compression • How the Texas Liberty Compact turns voter frustration into lasting reform • The next big fights: data centers, regulatory overreach, and budget transparency. 00:00 — Welcome and Jeramy Kitchen introduction 02:25 — 2026 primary results: mixed bag or game changer? 05:06 — Why “new blood” in the legislature matters 06:58 — Property tax reform and what could happen in 2027 08:44 — Compression explained and why it's the most equitable fix 17:01 — The Texas Liberty Compact and its 10 policy planks 19:01 — Ending taxpayer-funded lobbying 22:48 — Limiting local spending and debt and stronger voter approval 28:34 — Making government transparent and understanding the budget 37:55 — Big policy fights ahead: data centers and regulation 41:07 — Closing thoughts and how Texans can get involved If you want honest, no-spin analysis of what's coming to Austin next year, hit PLAY, smash that LIKE, and drop a comment: “What's YOUR #1 issue for the 90th Legislature?” Subscribe for more unfiltered Texas policy deep-dives every week!  Visit Texas Policy Research: https://www.texaspolicyresearch.com Read the full Texas Liberty Compact: https://texaslibertycompact.com Follow Jeramy: https://x.com/JeramyKitchen Turn on notifications — the 90th Legislature is coming fast, and this episode gives you the inside track! Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Future of Texas is a special limited series from Texas Talks exploring the ideas, leaders, and innovations shaping the state's next century.  As Texas approaches its bicentennial in 2036, this series brings together some of the state's most influential thinkers—from entrepreneurs and venture capitalists to policy experts and public leaders—to discuss the opportunities and challenges that will define Texas for generations to come.  Each episode features in-depth conversations with guests who are actively shaping the state's economic, technological, and policy landscape. In the first episode, host Brad Swail sits down with Joe Lonsdale, venture capitalist, founder of the Cicero Institute, and co-founder of Palantir Technologies, alongside John Hryhorchuk, Senior Vice President for Policy and Advocacy at Texas 2036. Together they explore Texas's emerging role as a national hub for innovation and what must be done to sustain that momentum—from infrastructure and workforce development to AI, energy, and economic growth.  Throughout the series, Future of Texas highlights the people and ideas working to ensure that Texas remains a leader in opportunity, entrepreneurship, and prosperity well into the next century.  Learn more and sign up for the newsletter:  https://Texas2036.org Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Is the “Texas Miracle” still alive — and what does it take to keep Texas competitive in 2026 and beyond? In this episode of Texas Talks, Megan Mauro, Interim President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business (TAB), joins Brad Swail to break down the state of the Texas economy. As the state chamber of commerce representing businesses of every size and industry, TAB sits at the center of Texas' pro-growth policy debates. Mauro explains how Texas maintains its reputation as a top business destination — from no personal or corporate income tax to regulatory consistency and recent property tax relief for small businesses. She discusses HB 9's business personal property tax exemption increase, why consistency across Texas' 254 counties matters, and how the Legislature is approaching affordability and housing challenges. The conversation also dives into: Why Texas is the 7th largest economy in the world Attracting corporate headquarters while protecting small businesses The importance of USMCA for Texas trade Workforce alignment between industry and education Childcare as a workforce issue Why data centers and AI are both economic and national security priorities Texas' “all of the above and below” energy strategy Mauro makes the case that a thriving business climate isn't just about corporations — it's about livelihoods, job creation, and ensuring Texas families can continue building the American dream. As the 90th Texas Legislature approaches, this episode explores what policies will shape the next chapter of the Texas economy.   00:00 — Introduction and Megan Mauro's background 01:12 — What the Texas Association of Business does 03:13 — Light regulation and pro-business principles 04:35 — The Texas Miracle and economic growth 06:29 — Why industry diversity matters in Texas 10:01 — Data centers, AI, and national security 14:53 — Tech policy and regulatory consistency 18:47 — Balancing legacy industries with innovation 21:01 — Property tax reform and small business relief 27:10 — Affordability and housing challenges 29:21 — Energy policy and grid reliability 30:59 — Advocacy in Washington and USMCA 34:45 — Workforce development and childcare solutions 38:37 — TAB Foundation and education initiatives   Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

In this episode, Kelly Hancock, Acting Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, breaks down what the Comptroller's office actually does—and what the latest numbers say about the Texas economy. Hancock discusses revenue estimating, procurement, contracts, and why sales tax trends matter so much to the state budget. He also explains how Texas is tracking key indicators like manufacturing, construction, and the impact of major projects such as data centers, plus how the state is making more economic data accessible to the public through Texas Comptroller “TexStats.” The conversation also covers the rollout of Texas Education Freedom Accounts (education savings accounts)—including registration numbers, program priorities, and the office's focus on customer-service speed and transparency. Finally, Hancock addresses procurement policy changes tied to DEI-era frameworks, what “leveling the playing field” means in practice, and why he wants stronger auditing authority to protect taxpayer dollars.   Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

On this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Mandy Drogin of the Texas Public Policy Foundation to discuss Texas Education Freedom Accounts, school choice policy, and the evolving future of education in the state.The conversation explores how education savings accounts (ESAs) work, why more than 100,000 families applied within days of launch, and the ongoing debate between supporters and critics. Topics include parental rights, funding models, homeschooling options, special-needs education, and the long-term impact of market-driven education reform in Texas.Whether you're a parent, policymaker, educator, or simply interested in Texas politics and public policy, this episode offers a detailed look at one of the biggest education reforms in the country.

In this episode of Texas Talks, Brad Swail interviews Margaret Byfield, Executive Director of American Stewards of Liberty, to break down the growing controversy surrounding proposed transmission lines across Texas. The discussion explores property rights, eminent domain, data-center energy demand, grid reliability after Winter Storm Uri, and the debate between local dispatchable power and large-scale transmission infrastructure.Byfield shares firsthand insight into how landowners could be affected by thousands of miles of new transmission corridors, the rising cost of electricity tied to infrastructure expansion, and the broader policy questions shaping Texas' energy future.Whether you're interested in energy policy, land use, rural property rights, or the economics behind grid expansion, this conversation offers a detailed look at one of the most consequential infrastructure debates unfolding in Texas today. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Brad Swail interviews Jaime Olin, interim executive director of the Texas Humane Legislation Network, about landmark animal welfare laws in Texas, enforcement challenges, and upcoming legislative priorities. They cover spay-neuter funding, roadside puppy sales bans, criminal negligence protections, ethical pet store reforms, and rural veterinary access. A must-listen for animal advocates, policy watchers, and Texans who care about humane treatment for all. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Early childhood intervention can change the trajectory of a child's life—but in Texas, funding hasn't kept pace with growing need.In this episode of the Texas Talks Podcast, host Brad Swail sits down with Veronda Durden, President and CEO of Any Baby Can, to discuss how early intervention services support children with developmental delays, strengthen families, and build long-term community resilience across Central Texas.Drawing on her 32-year career in Texas state government and her leadership at Any Baby Can, Durden explains how federal and state policies shape early childhood services, why providers are required to serve eligible children without guaranteed funding, and how rising costs are forcing difficult decisions in rural and fast-growing counties. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Former professional tennis player and ATP top-20 competitor Christo van Rensburg joins the Texas Talks podcast to discuss building the ATX Open into one of America's premier women's tennis tournaments. The conversation covers WTA rankings, why Austin is the perfect home for women's pro tennis, developing public courts, attracting top players, and the future of tennis culture in Texas. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Texas faces a growing rural health care crisis as hospitals close and emergency access shrinks. In this episode of the Texas Talk Podcast, Rob Morris—CEO of Complete Care and former president of the National Association of Freestanding Emergency Centers—explains how freestanding emergency rooms improve access, reduce costs, and stabilize rural communities. The conversation covers Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement barriers, the Emergency Care Improvement Act, rural hospital closures, wait times, aging demographics, and why emergency care must be protected as a core public service Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Veteran Texas politics reporter Brad Johnson joins the Texas Talks Podcast to break down the biggest policy fights shaping Texas in 2026. From water shortages and data centers to property tax relief, school vouchers, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence, this wide-ranging conversation explains what actually passed in 2025—and what still lies ahead. The episode closes with a sharp analysis of the Texas U.S. Senate race, including Cornyn vs. Paxton, Democratic strategy, and what primary voters are really signaling about the future of Texas politics. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Texas Christmas trees are more than a holiday tradition—they're a growing agricultural industry reshaping rural economies across the state. In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Stan Reed, Executive Secretary of the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association, to explore how Texas farmers are expanding from traditional crops into Christmas tree farming, agritourism, and year-round family experiences.The conversation covers how Christmas trees are grown in Texas, why demand for real trees is rising, how water rights and land use affect growers, and why locally grown trees are better for both communities and the environment. From seedling to six-foot tree, Reed explains the four-year process behind a Texas Christmas tree—and why this old-school tradition is finding new life in a changing economy. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Texas Hospital Association CEO John Hawkins joins Brad Swail to break down the toughest challenges facing health care in Texas — from rural hospital closures and workforce shortages to Medicare policy, uninsured rates, and the future of federal funding. Hawkins explains how geography, payer mix, population growth, and administrative burdens are reshaping the system, and outlines the state and federal solutions that could stabilize care for millions of Texans. A must-listen for anyone tracking Texas policy, health care access, or the future of hospitals in fast-growing states. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Texas housing is shifting fast — and in this in-depth interview, Texas Realtors Vice President of Governmental Affairs Tray Bates breaks down the real forces driving prices, affordability, and policy debates across the state. We cover the post-COVID market cooldown, interest-rate shocks, short-term rentals, global capital flowing into Texas development, and the growing “missing middle” problem affecting first-time buyers.Bates also explains the legislative fights ahead: property-tax reform, permitting delays, lot-size requirements, infrastructure bottlenecks, and the strategic plan Texas Realtors will take into the 90th Legislature. If you want a clear, candid, insider look at Texas real estate from someone who lives it every day, this conversation lays out exactly what's happening and what comes next. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Texas Talks host Brad Swail sits down with Peyton Schumann — the Interim Executive Director of Government Relations for the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association — for a deep dive into the challenges and future of cattle ranching in Texas. They cover everything from rising beef prices and drought-driven herd declines to the complexities of beef imports, federal trade policy, and the threat posed by the New World screwworm. Peyton also breaks down the high costs ranchers face, processing bottlenecks, truth-in-labeling laws, water shortages, and what the Texas Legislature may tackle next. If you want a clear, inside look at the realities of ranching in 2025 and what it means for consumers, landowners, and the state's economy, this conversation delivers it. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Dr. Audrey Young, elected to the Texas State Board of Education in 2020, joins Texas Talks for an in-depth conversation about the real state of special education in Texas. Drawing from 31 years in public schools as a speech therapist, reading specialist, administrator, and executive director, Dr. Young clarifies how dyslexia policy is being reshaped, why the statewide special-education population has risen to 20%, and how House Bill 568 is changing funding models across districts.We dig into the challenges facing rural and urban schools, the growing role of advocates, the impact of education savings accounts, and why Texas still struggles with uneven services for students with disabilities. Dr. Young also explains her vision for expanding gifted-education support and why leadership experience in special education matters now more than ever.For parents, educators, policymakers, and anyone trying to understand how Texas is rebuilding its special-education system, this episode provides a candid and informed roadmap for where the state is heading. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Former Railroad Commission Chairman and current head of the Texas Geothermal Energy Alliance, Barry Smitherman, joins host Brad Swail to break down the next big chapter in Texas energy. From the state's oil legacy to the rise of geothermal power, Smitherman explains how advances in drilling technology, abandoned oil wells, and dispatchable clean energy could redefine the grid. They discuss what Texas lawmakers can do to meet surging power demands, the role of AI data centers, and why geothermal might be the most inexhaustible, zero-carbon resource on the planet. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail interviews Kelly Shannon, Executive Director of the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas. They discuss the state's Public Information Act, government transparency, and why access to information is essential for accountability. Shannon explains how Texas laws were built after the Sharpstown scandal, how lawmakers have gradually weakened them, and what reforms could restore stronger transparency. The conversation also touches on the Hill Country floods, Governor Abbott's emails with Elon Musk, and the balance between privacy and public interest.This is a must-watch for anyone who believes in open government, free speech, and the public's right to know. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Texas Talks host Brad Swail sits down with Reed Clay, President of the Texas Nuclear Alliance, to discuss how nuclear energy could reshape Texas' power future. Clay explains why the state hasn't built a new plant in over 30 years, the myths and politics that sidelined nuclear in the 1990s, and how AI data centers and small modular reactors (SMRs) are driving a modern nuclear renaissance. From Winter Storm Uri to House Bill 14 and the creation of the Texas Nuclear Energy Office, this episode explores how Texas can stay competitive, reliable, and carbon-free through a smart mix of nuclear and natural gas. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Economist Dr. Raymond Robertson joins host Brad Swail on Texas Talks to explain a surprising discovery: the United States actually imports plastic waste — and how tariffs, recycling incentives, and Texas-style solutions could change that. Robertson, Director of the Mosbacher Institute at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, breaks down how a simple deposit-refund system could clean up our lakes, create jobs, and save millions, while reviving the “Don't Mess With Texas” spirit for a new generation. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

In this Texas Talks interview, Vulcan Technologies CEO Tanner Jones explains how his AI platform “maps the law” to simplify regulation, empower builders, and strengthen American competitiveness. From Virginia's landmark use of AI in government to the potential for Texas to unleash new growth, Jones shares a bold vision for abundance, innovation, and smarter governance. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

In this episode of Texas Talks, Brad Swail sits down with Tom Butler, Vice Chair of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. They dive into Texas's booming energy sector, the state's role in powering the nation, and how licensing reforms are shaping a skilled workforce. Butler shares insights on balancing regulation with growth, the rise of AI and data centers, and why small nuclear power and water management will be central to Texas's future. A must-listen for anyone interested in Texas energy, jobs, and policy. Watch Full-Interviews:  Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath joins the Texas Talks podcast to discuss the future of education in the Lone Star State. From literacy challenges and the impact of cell phones in classrooms, to the A–F accountability system and the new Bluebonnet curriculum, Morath shares his vision for improving student outcomes statewide. He also breaks down the Teacher Incentive Allotment program, which is reshaping how educators are paid—rewarding performance, boosting retention, and pushing more teachers toward six-figure salaries.Whether you're a parent, teacher, or policymaker, this conversation dives deep into how Texas schools are tackling systemic challenges and rethinking what it means to serve 5.5 million students.Watch Full Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Mary Lynn Pruneda, Director of Education & Workforce Policy at Texas 2036 and former education policy advisor to Gov. Greg Abbott.They dive into the controversies and complexities of Texas public education—from the end of the STAAR test to the new three-test system, literacy challenges, teacher pay, and the long-term workforce impact if Texas fails to catch up.Pruneda explains why public education is harder than most people realize, the consequences of pandemic learning loss, how Texas stacks up against other states like Mississippi, and what parents can do to step up as their children's first teachers.If you care about the future of Texas schools, accountability, testing, and workforce readiness, this conversation is a must-listen.

In this episode of Texas Talks, Brad Swail sits down with Kelsey Streufert, Chief Public Affairs Officer at the Texas Restaurant Association, to discuss the future of Texas dining. From Covid recovery to supply chain disruptions, property tax hikes, immigration, tariffs, and credit card swipe fees, restaurants are facing relentless challenges. Kelsey breaks down how new legislation like SB 1008 is cutting red tape, how childcare access and workforce policies are shaping the industry, and why Texas still leads as the best state to own and operate a restaurant. A must-listen for small business owners, policymakers, and anyone who cares about the food service industry in Texas.Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

In this Texas Talks interview, Senator Tan Parker of District 12 joins Brad Swail to discuss his decades-long fight against human trafficking, including the passage of Senate Bill 11 to protect victims and prosecute traffickers. Parker also breaks down disaster relief efforts following the July 4th floods, new legislation to safeguard Texas children, and the state's leadership in AI innovation and regulation. A deep dive into protecting the vulnerable, strengthening public safety, and keeping Texas at the forefront of progress.

In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Representative Gary VanDeaver (TX House District 1) to discuss the future of rural healthcare, the ongoing opioid crisis, and the heated debate over hemp-derived THC in Texas. VanDeaver, a retired educator and cattle rancher, shares his perspective on hospital closures, telemedicine, physician shortages, and policy battles shaping public health. From House Bill 18 on rural health stabilization to the controversy around THC regulation and opioid test strips, this conversation offers an inside look at the challenges and opportunities facing Texans today.

In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with State Representative Cody Vasut (HD-25) for an in-depth conversation about the most pressing issues facing Texas lawmakers. Vasut, Chair of the Redistricting Committee, breaks down the quorum standoff at the Capitol, why redistricting has become a national story, and how Texas maps compare to Democratic-led states. The discussion also covers hemp-derived THC regulation, the fight over age limits and bans, and the balance between public health and personal freedom. Finally, Rep. Vasut dives into property tax reform—why Texans feel like they're “renting from the state,” potential alternatives to the current system, and the long-term conservative goal of reducing or even eliminating property taxes. This wide-ranging conversation gives listeners a candid look inside the Texas Legislature and the policy battles shaping the state's future.

In this episode of Texas Talks, host Brad Swail sits down with Texas State Demographer Dr. Lloyd Potter to explore the trends shaping Texas's future. From population growth and migration patterns to slowing birth rates, infrastructure demands, and water security, Dr. Potter explains the demographic forces influencing policy, the economy, and everyday life in the Lone Star State. They also discuss the impact of urbanization, housing pressures, immigration shifts, and how Texas can plan ahead to maintain its quality of life.

In this installment of Texas Talks Presents: Hemp in Texas, host Brad Swail speaks with Scott Gates—Law enforcement veteran, farmer, hemp industry advocate, and co-founder of Texas Hemp Growers—about the business, science, and politics shaping hemp's future in the Lone Star State. From soil health to small-town economies, Gates lays out how hemp isn't just an agricultural product—it's a path toward sustainable farming, rural revitalization, and consumer choice. He warns that the proposed SB5 hemp ban threatens not only businesses and jobs, but also the rights of Texans to choose safer alternatives to alcohol and pharmaceuticals. Gates brings a unique blend of farmer's pragmatism and legislative savvy, explaining what's at stake for growers, manufacturers, and everyday Texans if the state outlaws hemp-derived cannabinoids. Check out the rest of the Hemp in Texas series on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL52AXg4M428dkbHAHPN3L_EkibznzbR86

In next installment of Texas Talks Presents: Hemp in Texas, host Brad Swail sits down with Sarah Stogner, the elected District Attorney for Texas' 143rd Judicial District. Known for her unfiltered honesty and fierce independence, Stogner makes the legal case against SB5—the controversial bill to ban hemp-derived THC. She argues that the real threat to Texans isn't hemp, but selective prosecution, government overreach, and bad lawmaking driven by special interests. From generational alcohol abuse to the collapse of prosecutorial credibility in THC cases, this episode is a wake-up call from inside the justice system. Stogner says what others won't: banning hemp won't protect children—it'll destroy businesses, waste resources, and push more Texans into the black market.

In the first episode of our special three-part series, Texas Talks Presents: Hemp in Texas, host Brad Swail sits down with Navy combat veteran, bestselling author, and advocate Janae Sergio to discuss the urgent mental health crisis facing veterans—and the life-saving role hemp-derived products can play. From exposing the failures of the VA system to challenging the Texas legislature's proposed hemp bans, this episode is a powerful, personal testimony to the stakes of healing, access, and dignity for Texas' 1.4 million veterans. Sergio shares her own story of trauma, recovery, and the fight to make alternative treatments available and respected. Learn more about Grunt Style Foundation: https://www.gruntstylefoundation.org/ Janae Sergio: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janae_perfectlyflawed/?hl=en X/Twitter: https://x.com/janae_sergio?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor