Justin McKenzie Shares Vision for Texas Innovation on Change & Creativity Podcast

In a compelling conversation on the Change and Creativity Podcast, host Judy Oskam, professor and director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University, sat down with fellow Bobcat and entrepreneur Justin McKenzie, host of the Building Texas Show. The discussion explored how Texas’s growth is being shaped by local leaders, entrepreneurs, and a commitment to telling the stories that fuel opportunity across the state.

Oskam, a proud native Texan, opened the episode by emphasizing that innovation isn’t confined to major metros. 

“In Texas, innovation isn't just happening in big cities, it's unfolding in small towns and communities across the state,” she stated. This theme resonated throughout the interview, as McKenzie detailed his journey from international student to a voice highlighting Texas’s economic development landscape.

From Global Perspective to Texas Focus
McKenzie, a two-time Texas State graduate and first-generation college student, shared how his unique background-growing up abroad as a Texan-shaped his perspective. “They'd say, ‘Oh, you're American.’ ‘Oh, we're from Texas.’ Immediately, American was forgotten. You're Texan,” he recalled.

This early lesson in state identity fueled his passion for showcasing Texas as the “center of the universe” for growth, entrepreneurialism, and opportunity. His show, which began as a local radio program in the Hill Country, was born from a desire to fill a visibility gap. 

“I was in the Hill Country and seeing some great entrepreneurial activities happening, but it's not making the local paper,” McKenzie explained. He believes storytelling is essential for acknowledging innovators, informing taxpayers, and inspiring the next generation. “High school kids need to see that even in the rural hill country, anything is possible.”

The Mayor’s Perspective: Growth, Grit, and Governance
A significant portion of the Building Texas Show involves interviewing mayors from across Texas. McKenzie shared common themes from these conversations, noting that rapid growth is a universal challenge and opportunity. From Bastrop, which has seen an influx of companies like SpaceX and The Boring Company, to Lubbock and Amarillo, each city is navigating how to scale while preserving its heritage.

He highlighted the symbiotic relationship between cities and universities, using Texas State University and San Marcos as a prime example.

“If you can work that together, you can retain a lot of that talent,” McKenzie said, addressing a key issue for the state. “Texas is very guilty. We all export so much talent that if we could retain it here, it'll help with our growth.”

Expanding the Mission: Vote Like a Texan and Work Like a Texan
Beyond profiling builders and mayors, McKenzie has launched new initiatives to engage Texans in civic and economic life. Vote Like a Texan focuses on nonpartisan civic education, explaining local government roles and encouraging participation in often-overlooked local elections.

“I really saw my hometown with a 7% turnout on a mayoral election. That May election was very important to our local community, our kids, and the future of that area,” he noted.

The upcoming Work Like a Texan series will connect job seekers and employers, highlighting in-demand skills and partnerships with trade schools and community colleges.

Advice for Entrepreneurs and Students
When asked for advice, McKenzie echoed a principle from Oskam’s own TEDx talk: take action. “Do it and then figure it out,” he advised. He encouraged entrepreneurs to deeply research a city’s comprehensive plan and regional economic strategy before planting roots. 

“Anywhere that you're researching, pull back their comprehensive plan… and say, is this going to fit what I want to be doing in 10 years?”

For students and lifelong learners, he emphasized the enduring value of community and mentorship, often found in unexpected places. 

“What can you learn while you're at this phase or stage that you're in? It may be a professor from twenty years ago that you go back and call.”

Listen to the Full Conversation on the Change and Creativity Podcast

The full interview offers deeper insights into Texas’s innovation corridors, the future of work, and the power of storytelling. It is now available on the Change and Creativity Podcast.

Listen to the episode and subscribe for more stories of innovation:
https://www.changeandcreativity.com/

About Change and Creativity Podcast
Hosted by Judy Oskam, the Change and Creativity Podcast explores stories of innovation, leadership, and community impact. Each episode features conversations with entrepreneurs, educators, and change-makers who are reimagining what’s possible in Texas and beyond. The podcast is dedicated to inspiring action and highlighting the creative solutions shaping our future.

About The Building Texas Show
The Building Texas Show is a premier media platform dedicated to exploring the people, policies, and projects shaping the future of the Lone Star State. Through candid conversations with founders, policymakers, and community leaders, the show provides invaluable insights into Texas’s innovation economy and civic landscape.

Media Contact:
Justin McKenzie
Host, The Building Texas Show
210-748-2312 | Email Contact
https://buildingtexasshow.com