Economic Alliance

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Host Jason Lee and Co-Host Zeke Smith welcome Sarina Landers Chairman Associated Builders and Contractors – Greater Houston and VP/Chief of Staff at Corvus Construction. Sarina shares her journey into the construction industry, the importance of collaboration between organizations, and how ABC supports workforce development, advocacy, and growth. The conversation also highlights the rise of women in construction and the opportunities shaping the industry’s future. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show Zeke Smith sits down with Mark Bookmyer. Mark shares his 35-year journey in the chemical industry with us. From growing up in Baytown to leading major operations along the Houston Ship Channel, Mark dives into leadership lessons, workforce development, and the powerful economic impact of the industry. Hear insights on safety, community involvement, and why the chemical sector continues to be a driving force for growth and opportunity. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

​In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, host Jason Lee sits down with Andrew Biar to break down the real meaning of stakeholder outreach. From pipelines to refineries and community development, Andrew shares how building relationships, communicating early, and engaging local leaders can make or break a project. The conversation also highlights how companies across the Houston Port Region collaborate, despite being competitors, working together for regional growth through advocacy and active participation. A must-listen for anyone involved in development, public affairs, or community impact. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

Join Chad Burke for a special Gulf Coast Growth Show conversation with Glen Hayes of ExxonMobil Baytown, who also serves as Vice Chair of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Executive Board. From his early beginnings in Alabama to leading one of the largest integrated petrochemical complexes in the world, Glen shares insights on leadership, industry evolution, and the critical role the Houston Port Region plays in powering global energy and manufacturing. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

Behind the scenes of the Houston Ship Channel with the Houston Pilots—often called the “special ops” of maritime navigation. In this episode of Gulf Coast Growth Show Host Jason Lee sits down with Captains Clint Winegar and Matt Glass to break down what it takes to safely guide massive ships through one of the busiest and most complex ports in the world. From navigating vessels just 100 feet apart to performing the famous “Texas Chicken” maneuver, to managing fog delays, 24/7 operations, and billion-dollar economic impacts—this episode highlights the skill, precision, and teamwork that keep our region and nation moving. ⚓ Learn what pilots do, how they’re trained, and why their role is critical to global trade. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

Join Host Jason Lee on the Gulf Coast Growth Show as he sits down with Houston Business Journal’s Naomi Klinge, Energy Reporter and Casey Kiesewetter, Vice President of Sales to discuss Houston’s booming manufacturing sector. From energy and life sciences to reshoring initiatives and supply chain logistics, learn why Houston is becoming a top hub for businesses and innovation. Plus, hear about upcoming events, networking opportunities, and how local leaders are shaping the Gulf Coast economy. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery.

In this special edition of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Chad Burke, President & CEO, Economic Alliance Houston Port Region sits down with Arienne Brint, Vice President of Global Government Affairs & Policy at LyondellBasell and Executive Board Vice Chair at Economic Alliance. Arienne shares her journey from Texas to Harvard Law School and into global leadership in government affairs. She discusses adaptability, authentic leadership, and the value of stepping outside your comfort zone to grow your career. The conversation also covers LyondellBasell’s global impact, sustainability efforts, and key Texas priorities, including infrastructure, water supply, and grid reliability; critical to supporting continued growth along the Gulf Coast. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

On this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show Zeke Smith sits down with David Reed and Bruce Mann of redM to discuss the realities of human trafficking and how it’s impacting our communities. They break down how grooming happens, why awareness matters, especially around major events, and what parents and leaders can do right now to protect kids and get involved. You don’t have to do everything. But you can do something. https://www.joinredm.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/redmovement/posts/?feedView=all David Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidred/ SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode, Host Jason Lee and Co-Host Zeke Smith sit down with Brandon Kinsey, Co-Founder of Kinsey Management, to explore how AI is reshaping talent acquisition and how organizations can stay adaptable in times of rapid change. Brandon shares practical insights on building agile cultures, preparing leaders for the future, and developing the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven workplace. He also discusses the rollout of updated workplace psychology software and upcoming AI enhancements, along with the milestone of achieving Elite Predictive Index Partner status and surpassing 100 active clients. Brandon reflects on the role his faith, family, and education at Texas A&M University have played in his journey. A powerful conversation on leadership, growth, and preparing for the future of work. SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this special edition of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Chad Burke talks with Sharon Hulgan, Lead Site Manufacturing Director at Dow / Director, Board of Directors GCPD & Coalter Baker, Executive Director GCPD. They discuss the Coastal Texas Project, a historic effort to protect the Galveston Bay region and Houston Ship Channel from catastrophic storm surge. After Ike and Harvey, the message is clear: it’s not IF another major storm hits, it’s WHEN. With new federal funding secured and engineering design underway for the Bolivar Roads gate system and expanded beach & dune barriers, momentum is building. This project safeguards lives, industry, and a region that powers America’s economy. Follow the Gulf Coast Protection District & help advocate for this highly needed project, safeguarding our region, its people, its future and our nation! 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐇𝐮𝐥𝐠𝐚𝐧: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-hulgan-11425717/ 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coalter-baker-24079913/ 𝐆𝐂𝐏𝐃 https://gcpdtexas.com/ https://www.facebook.com/GCPDTexas https://www.linkedin.com/company/gcpdtexas/posts/?feedView=all https://www.youtube.com/@GulfCoastProtectionDistrict

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Host Zeke Smith sit down with Dani Grant to talk about the upcoming EHCMA Golf Tournament benefiting Dream It. Do It. Southeast Texas. She tells us how the tournament supports workforce scholarships, connects industry leaders, and why now is the time to register a team, become a sponsor, volunteer, and donate. Don’t miss how you can be part of an event that builds opportunities for students while strengthening our Southeast Texas industry community. Take part in the growth at the EHCMA Golf Tournament here: https://birdease.com/ehcmagolf SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, hosts Jason Lee and Zeke Smith sit down with Tara Wilson, Founder of Eventsia Group and Vice Chair of Industry Outreach for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Industrial Craft Competition (ICC). Tara shares how the ICC is building a powerful pipeline into the industrial construction industry through hands-on, project-based training in fabrication, safety, project management, and more—impacting over 2,400 students and helping place 50+ students into industry jobs each year. We also explore how industry leaders can get involved through mentoring, judging, and sponsorship, plus a look ahead at the 21 student team projects on display during the Rodeo (March 2–22 at NRG) and the ICC Live Competition on April 18 at Texas State Technical College in Rosenberg. Tara wraps up by reflecting on leadership, mentorship, career growth, and a proud personal milestone as her kids step into their own paths. Reach out today to help support this great competition: Tara Wilson | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taraw/ Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/houston-livestock-show-and-rodeo/posts/?feedView=all Industrial Craft Competition | Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo https://www.rodeohouston.com/exhibitors-contestants/industrial-craft-competition/ SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

Commissioner Adrian Garcia of Harris County Precinct 2 joins Chad Burke, President & CEO of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, for the first Gulf Coast Growth Show of 2026. Together, they reflect on a milestone 2025 and look ahead to the transformative infrastructure, partnerships, and investments shaping the future of Precinct 2 and the greater Houston Port Region. SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, host Zeke Smith welcomes back MaryJane. She shares updates on the relaunch of the CAER App, industry led safety initiatives, membership growth, and what’s ahead for 2026. A great conversation on transparency, community engagement, and the future of manufacturing along the Gulf Coast. Contact MaryJane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjmudd/ EHCMA Website: https://www.ehcma.org/ Get the CAER App: https://www.ehcma.org/page/caer-online SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Girls Show, Zeke Smith sits down with Tammie Nielsen, Advancement Director for New Beginnings Sarah’s House. Tammy shares her personal journey, the mission of Sarah’s House, and how they support homeless women, families, and survivors of domestic violence. She also discusses their growing community services, upcoming Murder Mystery Dinner fundraiser, and why one of their top priorities is partnering with local industry to expand impact. Learn how you or your company can get involved, volunteer, or become an industry partner to support this vital work in our community. Get involved today: https://sarahshouse.org/ Reach out to Tammie Nielsen for more information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammienielsen/ SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

Join us on the Gulf Coast Growth Show as Host Zeke Smith, Director, Marketing & Workforce Development, Apache Industrial sits down with Willie Wells, President & CEO of Industry Business Roundtable (IBR), and Blair Williamson, Director of Talent Development, Austin Industrial to discuss workforce development, industry collaboration, and addressing the skilled labor shortage. Learn how owners, contractors, and community partners are coming together to build the next generation of craft professionals. Reach out to get involved or for more info: https://www.ibrt.us/ Willie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-willie-wells-49082b27/ Blair: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-williamson-622526a3/ Melissa Wolkenhauer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-wolkenhauer-1445363a/ SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, host Chad Burke, President & CEO of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, sits down with Earl Hirsch, founder of No More Carbon USA. Earl shares how his company is helping fleets and industries extend engine life, cut fuel costs, and reduce emissions—all while finding creative ways (like bacon!) to build relationships and grow business. Tune in for a conversation about innovation, efficiency, and the power of genuine connection. SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Chad Burke sits down with David Ellis, President of Packwell. David shares his career journey and how Packwell has become a leader in resin packaging and exports, supporting global trade through the Houston Port Region. They dive into the company’s commitment to safety, innovation, and workforce development, along with the exciting growth projects shaping Packwell’s future. SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, Chad Burke talks with Danny Grant, Senior HR Manager at Mitsubishi Chemical. Danny shares her journey from the Marine Corps to HR, her passion for workforce development, and her leadership roles in the community. They discuss the upcoming October 24th Golf Tournament at Wildcat Golf Club, which has already raised over $2 million for student scholarships, and highlight the high demand careers this effort supports. More than golf, it’s about building the future workforce pipeline for our industry. SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCicchcQYIpHpNBZFl_nPy1A?sub_confirmation=1 Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleeexponent/ Zeke Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zekesmith/ Amanda Baucum: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-baucum-5540013a/

In this episode of the Gulf Coast Growth Show, hosts Jason Lee and Zeke Smith sit down with Michael Richter—President & CEO of ABC Greater Houston and the Construction and Maintenance Education Foundation (CMEF). Michael shares his inspiring journey from being the youngest master plumber in Texas to leading two organizations committed to workforce development, safety, and advocacy in construction. Learn how ABC and CMEF are addressing the skilled labor shortage, supporting high school trades programs, championing mental health in the industry, and advocating for fair competition. A must-watch for anyone in or connected to the industrial and construction sectors! SUBSCRIBE: / @theeconomicalliance Produced in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast Studio, sponsored by Chevron Pasadena Refinery. Sound sponsored by Apache Industrial. Thank you, Host Chad Burke for another great episode! Speaker Suggestions: Jason Lee: / jasonleeexponent Zeke Smith: / zekesmith Amanda Baucum: / mandy-baucum-5540013a