ATX Ahead

Why Would We Write About This Hole in the Wall?

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0400

With billion-dollar deals going around, what’s up with the ABJ’s coverage of dive bars, little shops and gritty restaurants? They’re just as important to this city as Google, Dell or any of the big dogs. In fact, the big dogs came to sit on these porches, so Austin had better not lose these long-timers.

Outlandish Neighborhoods May Flood ATX

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Golf courses are out and huge swimming holes are in. Get a rundown of four wild projects being planned that are as much water parks as neighborhoods. And what’s up with that serious proposal to build a snow ski resort in the suburbs?

Austin's Real Estate Reality Check

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Our real estate party appears to be over, and now the question is how bad will the hangover be? In this episode, Austin Business Journal Editor Colin Pope covers all sectors, offers his insight, and projections for the road ahead in real estate.

How is Housing in Austin?

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0400

Is now a good time to buy? Where are the new homes popping up? Can anyone hope to buy a new home for less than $200,000? ABJ Editor Colin Pope analyzes residential real estate.

ATX Startup Scene Looking Like Silicon Valley

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 20:00:00 -0400

Fantastic fundings flew to fledgling firms in February. A handful of Austin startups snagged amounts usually disbursed to hundreds of companies over several months. Catch up on the hottest startups this city has perhaps ever seen in this episode as ABJ Editor Colin Pope recaps the big numbers.

Exclusive: "Bricks and Clicks" Entrepreneur Fred Schmidt Shares What's Worked, What Hasn't, and Why

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0400

He saved Austin favorite Toy Joy and also helms other icons Wild About Music and Austin Rocks Texas, while splitting time between retail & tech ventures. In our season-opening episode, Fred Schmidt stops by to chat with ABJ Staff Writer Sahar Chmais about his successes and failures over the years, and what makes Austin unique in the retail landscape.

Date Night at a Sporting Goods Store? Coming Soon for Residents in Booming Williamson County

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 23:00:00 -0400

Austin Business Journal Editor Colin Pope wraps up the year with the focus on Williamson County, and why not? The ABJ covers five counties around Austin, and Williamson County dominated our story count this past year. Colin highlights the massive mixed-use development coming to Cedar Park, with an iconic national sporting good store set to open just its second location in Texas.

Food Fight!

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Sprouts will soon outgrow Whole Foods here, new grocers are on the way, and can anyone beat H-E-B? Austin Business Journal Editor Colin Pope discusses the fun tidbits about Austin’s changing grocery scene and more in this episode.

Austinites Go Wild, Surf's Up in Austin and Tesla is in Overdrive

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0400

Elon Musk can't stop building here. Austin's going to have a place to catch a wave to go surfing. People are yanking their homes and businesses from Austin city limits like crazy, and what's up, or down with crime in Austin? ABJ Editor Colin Pope discusses that and more in this episode.

The San Antonio-Austin Metroplex Explored: Or... Is It the Austin-San Antonio Metroplex?

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0400

Austin Business Journal Editor Colin Pope dives into the reality of Austin and San Antonio melting together. What will the towns between look like? What can we expect, transportation-wise? Will the two cities share an NFL team? And what about this idea of laying down a hikeable and bikeable greenbelt that stretches from downtown Austin to downtown San Antonio?

Hot Headlines from August and the Word Around the Newsroom with Colin Pope

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

We survived another Texas summer heatwave, and as the calendar is set to turn over to fall, the business headlines remain red hot. In this download, Austin Business Journal Editor Colin Pope recaps the last month and looks ahead to how things might play out for a number of Austin icons.

Hot Summer Headlines: Clickin' on Chicken, and Elon Musk's Growing Austin Empire

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0400

When you add all it all up — X, Tesla, SpaceX, Boring Company and Neuralink — it’s hard to deny that no one has had as big of an impact on the Austin area as Elon Musk. In this episode, Austin Business Journal Editor Colin Pope looks into Musk's growing Austin empire and recaps our top stories in July.

Steal These Ideas from Austin’s Best Places to Work

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 22:00:00 -0400

Get a load of the perks and benefits offered by this year’s winners. Some are grand — like shipping employees up to Colorado in July so they can escape the Texas heat. Others come with little or no cost. In any case, good ideas abound to improve where you work. ABJ Editor Colin Pope recaps the best benefits and the top stories from the past month.

Where Does Austin Rank? It Depends Who's Counting and Which Survey You Read

Thu, 30 May 2024 20:00:00 -0400

Jacksonville, Florida bumped Austin out of the Top 10 list of largest cities in America, as many folks are exiting Travis County for Georgetown, Leander, Kyle and points beyond. Despite a few relocations, Austin remains one of America's most desirable cities according to another major survey. In this episode, ABJ Editor Colin Pope delivers the download on Austin's ups and downs in the rankings.

Elon Musk Transforms Austin's East Side

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0400

Austin has a new most-influential employer, and he’s forcing huge changes to a part of the Austin area that has steered clear of the boom until now. Dive into that, plus ABJ’s most-read stories in the month of April. Despite Tesla dropping the biggest layoffs bombshell in local history, a little BBQ joint suddenly shutting down amassed more attention.

Readers React: Why Has the ABJ Reporting Been So Negative Lately?

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0400

There's a simple answer in this download: Don't confuse The Austin Business Journal with the Chamber of Commerce. Business leaders and executives expect the facts, and as ABJ Editor Colin Pope explains, when the local economy is challenging, it's up to the ABJ staff to tell the truth.

Austin Icons: A Candid Conversation About the Future of Austin's Favorite Businesses

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 13:00:00 -0400

It's a cliche because it's true: The only thing constant is change. And while many of Austin's iconic businesses have escaped extinction, or been reincarnated elsewhere, many others face an uncertain fate. In this download, ABJ Editor Colin Pope leads a conversation with reporters Sahar Chmais and Mike Christen who've been closely covering the future and fate of numerous Austin icons.

Colin's 2024 Crystal Ball: Our Survey of Business Owners and the Word on the Street

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0400

The new year is still fresh, and the outlook in Austin depends on whom you ask. In our opening download of the year, ABJ Editor Colin Pope compiles the latest surveys of business owners and compares the stats with the word on the street to offer predictions on the year ahead.

The Williamson County Growth Summit: Can Infrastructure Keep Pace with the Building Boom?

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0400

ABJ Senior Staff Writer Justin Sayers joins Editor Colin Pope to debrief after an action-packed edition of the annual Williamson County Growth Summit. It's clear that the building boom in manufacturing facilities won't slow anytime soon. In fact, it may accelerate, and that could cause infrastructure issues. Case in point: Consumer packaged goods company Afia is currently still on a septic tank because sewage lines haven't been installed.

The Uncertain Futures for Austin Icons as Commercial Real Estate Development Continues

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 17:00:00 -0400

We once took for granted that cherished Austin icons like Peter Pan Mini-Golf would be there for our children, and our children's children, for generations to come. But the future of Peter Pan Mini-Golf and places like it are now in question with a premium on real estate. In this episode, ABJ Editor Colin Pope connects with Reporter Sahar Chmais to learn more about Austin's iconic places that may be facing extinction.

UT + MD Anderson Combines Best-in-Class Research with Top-Ranked Cancer Care

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0400

This podcast explores the future of Austin, and the challenges we face. There's no question we're experiencing growing pains. But at the same time, Austin is looking ahead to the future, the next generation and making bold bets to make our city, and our region better for all. In this episode, ABJ's Will Anderson explores the powerful partnership between MD Anderson Cancer Center and The University of Texas at Austin.

Guests:
James B. Milliken, Chancellor, The University of Texas System
Jay Hartzell, President, University of Texas Austin
Dr. Claudia Lucchinetti, Dean, Dell Medical School

Is This the Beginning of the End, or the End of the Beginning for Austin's Economic Growth?

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0400

Rising rates, a housing crunch, and commercial real estate concerns have put the brakes on the exponential growth we've experienced over the past decade. Are we done, or is this just a pause prior to another era of expansion? To find out, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson calls on Ed Latson, CEO of the Austin Regional Manufacturers Association, who will soon transition to the same leadership role with Opportunity Austin.

Inside the ABJ Newsroom: The Story That Deserved More Downloads in August

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 22:00:00 -0400

Our top story in August was the 2023 list of Austin's wealthiest zip codes, with some surprises we'll discuss. ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson shares his pick with Editor Colin Pope for the story that should've grabbed more attention. Plus, nominations are open for one of the favorite surveys of 2024. All of these topics have a direct impact on the future of Austin, and the challenges we face. Enjoy the episode!

Land Use: Not the Sexiest Topic... But This May Be the Key to Relieving Our Housing Crunch

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

If you're looking for another rehash of topics troubling our growing region- this ISN'T the podcast to download. In this episode, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson takes a fresh look at what may be the key to improving Austin's housing market. Will welcomes Greg Anderson (no relation) from the Austin Planning Commission.

We're Number... 40? Why Austin No Longer Owns the Coveted "Best Places to Live" Survey

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 20:00:00 -0400

Longtime locals including ABJ Editor Colin Pope have seen this coming for the past decade, and now it's a reality reflected in the rankings. In the respected U.S. News & World Report "Best Places to Live" rankings for 2023, Austin plummeted to 40th. Still the most desirable major metro in Texas, but no longer the darling of the survey. In this episode, Colin joins ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson to offer his unique perspective, and point to the two major issues that dragged our city down the rankings.

The Impact of Giving in Austin and How Philanthropy Is Making a Difference

Wed, 31 May 2023 22:00:00 -0400

The influx of capital, both human and financial, has impacted the Austin-area. Higher home prices, longer commutes, and wait times for whatever you may want. But there has been a positive side to our growth in the philanthropic sector- more money is flowing to Austin charitable organizations. Led by Michael Dell's efforts, Austin is feeling a positive impact in giving. In this download, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson chats with Austin Community Foundation CEO Mike Nellis about the impact of the influx in Austin.

The $10 Billion Train Ticket: Austin Transit Partnerships Case for Light Rail

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 22:00:00 -0400

Austin's explosive growth over the past decade has put a serious strain on a limited transit system. Is a light rail system the answer, or a billion dollar boondoggle that nobody will ride? In this episode, ABJ Reporter Mike Christen invites Austin Transit Partnership Executive Director Greg Canally and EVP of Architecture & Urban Design Peter Mullan to discuss the merits and challenges of the ambitious and expensive project.

Editor's Roundtable Discussion: SXSW + SVB and the Impact on the Austin Tech Scene

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 21:00:00 -0400

With the first full scale, post-pandemic South by Southwest in the books, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson connects with Assistant Managing Editor Paul Thompson and Austin Inno Editor Brent Wistrom to recap SXSW and the impact of Silicon Valley Bank's implosion that happened in real time at the event.

The Tech Reset: Will the Bubble Burst in Austin, or Are We Immune?

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 18:00:00 -0400

The tech reset is well documented, yet many Austin-area firms are still searching for talent. Is the worst still to come, or are we sheltered from the impacts of larger tech hubs like Silicon Valley & the Seattle-area. In this episode, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson invites longtime Austin resident Thom Singer, CEO of the Austin Technology Council to offer his perspective.

2023 Economic Outlook Reveals Challenges, Opportunities and Candid Conversations

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 22:00:00 -0400

With tech layoffs sweeping the industry and investment bankers calling a crash for Austin's residential real estate market, we turn to our panel of local economic experts for perspective. In this episode, ABJ Editor Colin Pope leads a candid discussion with a trio of experts who don't pull any punches when it comes to the year ahead, and beyond:

Moderator:
Colin Pope | Editor, Austin Business Journal

Panelists:
Angelos Angelou | Founder & CEO, Angelou Economics & International Accelerator
Jon Hockenyos | President & Economist, TXP Inc.
Lila Valencia | City Demographer, City of Austin

Cotter Cunningham: The Impact of a Slowing Economy on Austin's Sizzling Start-Up Scene

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Rising interest rates poured a bucket of cold water on what was Austin's red hot housing market. The effect has been much the same in the start-up community, where getting funding is no longer a given. In many cases, investors are rationing their funds or sitting on the sidelines. In this episode, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson explores the current state of the tech start-up community with entrepreneur Cotter Cunningham, who founded RetailMeNot and is active in Austin's tech scene.

Austin's Homeless Crisis: Mobile Loaves & Fishes Founder Alan Graham Offers Insight

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 20:00:00 -0400

Austin's exponential growth over the past decade has been good for business. But the resulting housing crunch put downward pressure on our most vulnerable, low income citizens. In this episode, ABJ Assistant Managing Editor Paul Thompson invites Alan Graham, Founder & CEO of Mobile Loaves & Fishes, to share what he and his team are doing to help address this crisis.

Inside the ABJ Newsroom: Editor's Perspective, Insight and Outlook for Austin's New Economy

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 21:00:00 -0400

In a special edition of the podcast series, the Austin Business Journal editorial leaders convene, sharing their personal experience and perspective on Austin's exponential growth. Editor Colin Pope moved here as a kid in 1987, Managing Editor Will Anderson is now a native after 21 years here, and Assistant Managing Editor Paul Thompson is a relative newcomer, arriving in the past five years. Together, they share an in-depth conversation about the past, present and future of Austin.

Is The Domain Austin's Second Downtown? It Depends Whom You Ask

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0400

As Austin's suburbs continue to grow, this question is one that evokes a variety of responses, both positive and negative. Regardless of your take, there's no question that The Domain has become an alternate epicenter- minus the music scene, of course. In this episode, ABJ's Cody Baird explores this hot topic with the man who's had a hand in the development of both locations, Tim Hendricks, senior VP and managing director of Cousins Properties.

Matt Stephenson and Code2College Rallies Austin Tech to Support Students

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0400

Austin's exponential growth has certainly created challenges. But it's also opened the door for inspiring leaders to step up and offer creative solutions. In this episode, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson invites Code2College Co-Founder & CEO Matt Stephenson to share how he and his team are engaging, and challenging, Austin's tech community to support and inspire low-income and minority students to pursue STEM careers.

Exploring Austin's Growth from the C-Suite: Perspective from Disco's Kiwi Camara

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 12:00:00 -0400

While exploring Austin's exponential growth, we've covered the housing shortage and affordability issues from all angles. In this episode, we shift our focus to the business side and Austin's growing roster of public companies. ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson welcomes Disco Founder & CEO Kiwi Camara, who shares why he chose Austin, insight on his company's IPO, and what's driving his commitment to foster a friendly and collaborative office environment for his team.

Austin Real Estate: If We're Not in a Bubble, Then What's Up With Home Prices?

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 20:00:00 -0400

With the stock market sinking, crypto crashing and the price of food, gas & energy skyrocketing, is Austin's red hot housing market in for a cold dose of reality as rates continue rising? Nope. In this episode, ABJ's Real Estate Reporter Cody Baird invites Austin Board of Realtors Secretary-Treasurer Brandy Wuensch to the podcast. She explains what's driving this unique market, and why there's no bubble to burst this time around.

Too Big for Our Britches? Is Austin Now a Victim of Its Own Success?

Tue, 31 May 2022 20:00:00 -0400

EDITOR'S NOTE: This podcast was updated on July 19th. A previous version incorrectly described the status of the Mayor's Health & Fitness Council of Austin.

Once an annual favorite on a popular list of "Best Places to Live", Austin is falling in the rankings, mainly due to quality of life scores. With home prices skyrocketing, the homeless population growing, and public & private leaders struggling to keep up with growth it begs the question: Is Austin Now a Victim of Its Own Success? In this episode, ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson welcomes Kathleen Lucente, CEO of Red Fan Communications, and Tim McClure, iconic branding man who coined the phrase "Don't Mess with Texas". They each provide unique perspective on the messaging, and reality.

Transforming Taylor: Mayor Brandt Rydell on the Impact of Samsung's Investment

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 13:00:00 -0400

While Austin and surrounding suburbs grapple with the high cost of land and housing, outlying communities are poised to welcome growth. The most notable example is Samsung's $17 billion investment in a new fab site in Taylor. In this episode, ABJ Reporter Justin Sayers welcomes Taylor Mayor Brandt Rydell to share how the deal came together, its impact, and his expectations for managing future growth.

KIRO ACTION and Brohn Homes Take Different Paths to Solving Austin's Housing Crisis

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 20:00:00 -0400

Our series continues with an innovative start-up and a local homebuilder taking different, but plausible approaches to solving Austin's housing crisis. ABJ Managing Editor Will Anderson meets up with KIRO ACTION HOUSING Founder Sam Haytham at SXSW. Haytham takes on the homeless crisis at its root cause: lack of accessible shelter. At the other end of the spectrum, ABJ Residential Real Estate Reporter Michelle Pitcher invites Brohn Homes Co-President Aaron Boenig to share what he and his team are doing to drive down the price of new construction homes across the region.

Common Ground: Viewpoints Vary, But Key Leaders Agree on Several Solutions

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 22:00:00 -0400

In this episode we continue our conversation, seeking solutions to Austin's housing affordability crisis. Reporter Kathryn Hardison invites Nora Linares-Moeller, who tackles the topic on many fronts as the Executive Director at HOUSINGWORKS AUSTIN. Linares-Moeller shares her perspective and experience. Meantime, Reporter Michelle Pitcher calls on Robert Lee, CEO of Pearlstone Partners, who clearly defines his company's mission to offer "attainable housing", detailing many projects completed and in the works across Austin.

Housing Affordability: Habitat for Humanity CEO Phyllis Snodgrass

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Austin's exponential growth provides exciting new opportunities for career advancement and income growth, along with civic and cultural expansion. But there's also the challenges these opportunities present- first and foremost, housing affordability, or lack thereof, as the population swells, inventory is scant, and salaries continue rising. In the opening episode of The Austin Business Journal's ATX Next podcast series, Managing Editor Will Anderson checks in with Reporter Katherine Hardison to set the tone for the series. Later, ABJ Residential Real Estate Reporter Michelle Pitcher goes one-on-one with Habitat for Humanity CEO Phyllis Snodgrass, who shares shocking statistics and insight on the issue.