Shows
Beyond the BiteEp 62. Who Calls the Shots? Council, Staff, and the People’s VoiceIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with San Antonio City Council members Marina Alderete Gavito and Marc Whyte to discuss a range of hot topics affecting the city. The conversation kicks off with the recent incident involving Councilwoman Ivalis Meza Gonzalez and transitions into an in-depth look at Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones's leadership style and various procedural changes at City Hall. The guests candidly share their reactions to new protocols, including changes to seating arrangements and the handling of phones during executive session, highlighting the need for better communication and mutual understanding among...2025-07-2950 minBeyond the BiteEp 61. Marc Whyte & Misty Spears: Navigating Tragedy, Budgets, and Hard ChoicesIn Episode 61 of "Beyond the Bite," host Eddie Aldrete is joined by returning Councilman Marc Whyte (District 10) and newly elected Councilwoman Misty Spears (District 9) to discuss the pressing challenges facing San Antonio’s City Council this year. The conversation opens with reflections on the loss of 13 lives in the recent flooding event and the urgent need to address the city’s aging infrastructure—such as roads, drainage, and water systems—to prevent similar disasters in the future. Both guests stress their commitment to returning to "the basics" of city governance and focusing on investments that most directly benefit residents’ quality of...2025-07-0845 minBeyond the BiteEp 60. Sukh Kaur and Ivalis Meza Gonzalez on City Hall Challenges, Budget Shortfalls and OpportunitiesMeet two of the voices from San Antonio City Council. In this episode, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with San Antonio City Councilwomen Sukh Kaur of District 1 and Ivalis Meza Gonzalez of District 8 to explore the experiences and challenges facing both an incumbent and a newly elected official. Kaur reflects on her first term, highlighting the intense workload, the importance of constituent services, and the surprise at just how many residents reach out for help with a diverse range of issues. Both councilwomen discuss the dynamic between their districts and the ways in which building relationships between council members h...2025-06-2441 minBeyond the BiteEp. 59 How Ranching, Baseball, and Faith Shaped Tano Tijerina’s Life in Webb CountyIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina for an in-depth conversation about family, leadership, and life along the Texas border. Judge Tijerina opens up about his upbringing in Webb County, in and around Laredo, sharing stories about his large family, the values he learned from ranching life, and his journey from professional baseball to public service. The discussion highlights the importance of hard work, faith, and family—elements that have influenced both his career and his personal life, including the adoption story that expanded their family in a me...2025-06-0346 minBeyond the BiteEp 58. Rolando Pablos and Gina Ortiz Jones Race Toward The Finish Line in Mayoral RunoffIn this special live edition of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete welcomes San Antonio mayoral candidates Gina Ortiz Jones and Rolando Pablos for an in-depth conversation on some of the most pressing issues facing the city. Filmed before an audience of The Leadership San Antonio Alumni Association, the discussion covers the looming city budget shortfall, challenges with city revenues, and how each candidate would prioritize spending on core services like public safety and support for San Antonio’s most vulnerable residents. Both guests share their views on balancing efficiency with investment and the importance of transparent communication with th...2025-05-1941 minBeyond the BiteEp 57. Low Turnout and High Stakes: What Defined the 2025 Mayor’s Race in San AntonioIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with guests Rob Killen and Erin Bley to break down the unexpected twists in San Antonio’s recent mayoral and city council elections. The discussion opens with a deep dive into the mayor’s race, unpacking the surge of outsider candidates, the influence of outside money, and the impact of strikingly low voter turnout. The trio highlights how shifting dynamics—from late re-entries into the race to strategic endorsements and the role of polling—upended long-held assumptions about frontrunners and reshaped the city’s political landscape....2025-05-0654 minBeyond the BiteEp 56. Who Will Lead San Antonio’s Next Era As Mayor?In this special episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete offers listeners an in-depth "Mayoral Candidate Mashup" ahead of San Antonio’s 2025 mayoral election. Instead of the typical soundbite answers found in traditional forums, this episode features 3-4 minute highlights from Aldrete’s interviews with each of the nine top contenders. These candidates include former and current city council members, business leaders, and individuals with experience at the state and federal levels, each sharing their visions, priorities, and approaches for the future of San Antonio.Listeners get a wide-ranging look at the issues and...2025-04-2145 minBeyond the BiteEp 55. Melissa Cabello Havrda On Her Mayoral Campaign and San Antonio's FutureThe odds of her succeeding in life have never really been in her favor, but through hard work and determination, Melissa Cabello Havrda overcame the odds, graduated from college, graduated from law school, began her own law firm and got elected to the City Council. Now, she wants to be San Antonio’s next mayor.She’s running a grassroots campaign in a very crowded field. Cabello Havrda shares her journey from launching her campaign in December to navigating a field of 26 opponents, emphasizing her commitment to community engagement and grassroots organizing. She explores the d...2025-04-1039 minBeyond the BiteEp. 54. From Air Force to Mayoral Candidate: Why Gina Ortiz Jones Wants To Be San Antonio MayorTo understand Gina Ortiz Jones, you have to start with her personal journey. In this episode, she reflects on her path from growing up on the far West Side of San Antonio to serving as the 27th Under Secretary of the Air Force. She shares how her upbringing and military experience have shaped her belief in the importance of strong local leadership, community investment, and expanded educational opportunities.The conversation then shifts to key issues facing San Antonio, including education, public health, and economic development. Ortiz Jones lays out her vision for addressing inequities...2025-04-0844 minBeyond the BiteEp 53. Clayton Perry's Perspective on Moving Past the Status QuoWith former City Councilman Clayton Perry, what you see is what you get. The folksy, jovial former councilman definitely knows what he doesn’t like and that’s a city that spends too much, is way behind on funding infrastructure projects and a city that keeps veering outside of its’ municipal lane getting involved in state and federal issues that will either generate lawsuits or in some form, come back to haunt us.In this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with mayoral candidate and former San Antonio City Councilman Clayton...2025-04-0141 minBeyond the BiteEp. 52. Senator Ted Cruz and His Fight for the Texas/Mexico BorderIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, to discuss the role he played in cutting through the federal bureaucracy on significant trade and infrastructure projects in Texas. One of the key topics is Senator Ted Cruz's efforts to expedite the approval process for new international bridges and the expansion of an international bridge along the Texas-Mexico border. These bridges, crucial for strengthening trade relations and economic growth, faced delays due to bureaucratic obstacles. Senator Cruz details the bipartisan efforts, including legislation and collaboration with various political figures, that...2025-03-1826 minBeyond the BiteEp. 51. Robert Melvin on Building a Better San Antonio Through Intentional GrowthIn this episode, the conversation kicks off with business leader and mayoral candidate Robert Melvin discussing his unique perspective on economic development, shaped by his experiences as a business owner, builder and entrepreneur. He highlights the importance of changing the city's approach to development, emphasizing a need for minimizing red tape and fostering a more cooperative relationship between the city and developers. His vision for San Antonio includes intentional growth strategies that prioritize the needs of local communities and businesses, aiming to transform the city into a thriving economic hub.Melvin addresses critical issues...2025-03-0443 minBeyond the BiteEp 50. From Councilwoman to Mayoral Candidate: Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia's Journey and VisionIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite,” host Eddie Aldrete welcomes back San Antonio Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia. The conversation begins with an update on Dr. Rocha Garcia's father's health, following his diagnosis with Alzheimer's. Rocha Garcia talks about the support she receives from her extended family and shares a touching story about how her son helps care for her father by handling daily tasks and medication. This introduction sets the stage for discussing the balancing act between personal commitments and political aspirations, as Garcia previously expressed interest in running for mayor.Councilwoman Rocha Ga...2025-02-1842 minBeyond the BiteEp 49. Future-Proofing CPS Energy: Rudy Garza's Vision Amid Rapid GrowthIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, CPS Energy CEO Rudy Garza, rejoins the podcast to provide important updates on San Antonio’s power landscape. Garza discusses how CPS Energy has adapted since the severe winter storm of 2021, emphasizing their improved communication with ERCOT and the significant strides they've made in power generation and responsiveness to outages. Garza highlights CPS Energy's readiness in handling cold weather challenges and outlines the investments made in maintaining aging natural gas plants scheduled for shutdown to ensure reliability.Garza delves into the collaborative relationship between CPS Energy and ER...2025-02-0440 minBeyond the BiteEp 48. What A New Year, New Speaker, and New Mayor Might Mean for San AntonioIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," Eddie Aldrete sits down with guests Demonte Alexander, CEO of Citizen Reach and Director of Public Affairs for Bridgewater Consulting, and Shay Bluntzer from Marlin Blue Strategists to discuss their professional transitions and insights into the current state and future of San Antonio politics. Demonte elaborates on the mission of Citizen Reach, focusing on public engagement to help various entities build consensus within the community, and outlines his strategic work with Bridgewater Consulting in the work they do in the utilities sector. Shay reflects on founding Marlin...2025-01-2147 minBeyond the BiteEp 47. 2024 in Review: San Antonio’s Highlights & Milestones with Rob Killen & Erin BleyIn this episode, host Eddie Aldrete is joined by Rob Killen and Erin Bley as they explore San Antonio’s evolving political and urban landscape. The discussion spans upcoming elections and the intricate dynamics of governance shaping the city’s future.The conversation opens with an analysis of the challenges and opportunities surrounding the upcoming mayoral election, the first open-seat race in 16 years. Erin and Rob delve into the strengths and weaknesses of candidates, highlighting the significance of voter engagement and the potential impact of events like Fiesta on turnout. The hosts also touch on t...2024-12-3045 minBeyond the BiteEp 46. UTSA's Ambitious Vision: Dr. Taylor Eighmy on San Antonio's Transformation🎙️ In this episode of Beyond the Bite, we’re diving into transformation, innovation, and the future of San Antonio.Host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Dr. Taylor Eighmy, President of the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), to explore some truly game-changing initiatives that are reshaping the city’s educational, cultural, and economic landscape.Dr. Eighmy shares how UTSA is leading the charge with its ambitious downtown expansion—acquiring new properties and launching groundbreaking colleges dedicated to AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Science. These projects aren’t just about growth on cam...2024-12-1745 minBeyond the BiteEp 45. Reaching San Antonio’s Potential with Rolando PablosMayoral candidate Rolando Pablos is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in business, government and economic development. In this episode, Host Eddie Aldrete and guest Rolando Pablos delve into the importance of trust and experience in leadership roles, particularly when it comes to collaborating and negotiating with others. Pablos shares his vision for enhancing community awareness to address issues like crime and homelessness, stressing the significance of understanding the unique challenges faced by different neighborhoods to foster public safety and unity.The conversation shifts to regional and binational economic opportunities, with Pablos highlighting the...2024-12-0344 minBeyond the BiteEp 44. A Roadmap for San Antonio’s Mayoral CandidatesIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," host Eddie Aldrete dives into the deep end of the mayoral campaign pool to better understand what candidates should be doing right now, how much they need to raise to be viable and why candidates need to approach this non-partisan office with a partisan campaign. Join Eddie and his live audience as his political consultant guests – Republican Kelton Morgan and Democrat James Aldrete (Eddie’s brother), as they delve into the complex landscape of the upcoming San Antonio mayoral election, covering what the candidates may face, navigating voter expec...2024-11-1950 minBeyond the BiteEp 43. Beto Altamirano and What He Sees in San Antonio's FutureIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Beto Altamirano to discuss his experience and ambitious vision for San Antonio. Altamirano, a seasoned entrepreneur and now mayoral candidate, recounts his journey from working as a legislative aide and fellow for various officials to his role as a public involvement specialist for the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization. Emphasizing a philosophy of community engagement, Altamirano launched a listening tour to gather direct feedback from residents about pressing issues such as crime, jobs, and infrastructure, which ultimately shaped his comprehensive policy framework, Plan 210.2024-11-1251 min
ENside PoliticsOur experts talk Cruz versus Allred and other election cliff-hangersWhy isn't Colin Allred rushing to embrace Kamala Harris? Why isn't Sen. Ted Cruz talking much about Donald Trump? San Antonio political consultants Eddie Aldrete and Laura Barberena and host Greg Jefferson answer these questions and more on this week's ENside Politics.Suggested reading:Colin Allred brings Senate campaign to San AntonioIn a key Texas House race, the GOP is testing how far right voters will goSupport for stripping caps on city manager climbs in new UTSA pollWill voters know Prop C undoes...2024-10-2958 minBeyond the BiteEP 42. Navigating The Return to the OfficeIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," host Eddie Aldrete welcomes back guests Anamaria Suescun Fast, Leanne King, and Larry Mendez to discuss the evolving dynamics of remote work, office space utilization, and their impacts on the labor and commercial real estate markets post-pandemic. They delve into the current trend of returning to office settings, highlighting how this shift has reshaped employment trends, wage demands, and commercial space requirements. Leanne King discusses the correction in the labor market, noting that while employees initially held leverage for remote work and higher wages, th...2024-10-2948 minBeyond the BiteEp 41. Growing the Economies of The South Texas DiamondIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete begins with a tribute to the Late-Mike Allen, who led the McAllen Economic Development Corporation for many years. Inspired by a conversation with then-State Senator David Sibley of Waco, Allen founded the Texas Border Coalition. Allen, the consummate advocate for South Texas insisted on South Texas communities working together for the betterment of the region. The South Texas “Diamond,” is a phrase coined by Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai to include cities and counties from San Antonio south to the Rio Grande Valley. The Diamond, also re...2024-10-1541 minBeyond the BiteEp 40. Marc Whyte’s Strategy for San AntonioWhile San Antonio City Councilman Marc Whyte is quick to discuss the important issues facing San Antonio, he is just as quick to pay homage to his colleagues for working as a problem-solving team. Perhaps known most for his focus on fiscal discipline in order to stretch taxpayer dollars, Whyte isn’t shy about diving into other issues. He praises the unanimous Council support for the firefighters' new contract, which includes a significant 20% raise over three years and he helped develop a policy that strategically allocates CPS revenue from surplus energy sold on the ope...2024-10-0139 minENside PoliticsSan Antonio voters like caps on city manager, not thrilled with Spurs arenaVoters will decide Nov. 5 on a pay increase for City Council and whether to remove pay and term restrictions on the city manager. A new poll by the UTSA Center for Public Opinion Research show voters aren't fans of either proposition. San Antonio political consultants Eddie Aldrete and Laura Barberena join ENside Politics host Greg Jefferson hash out the survey's results -- and a few of its shortcomings.Suggested reading:Poll: Most voters oppose removing city manager’s pay cap and boosting council payHere are the six city charter am...2024-09-2439 minBeyond the BiteEp 39. Recalibrating for a New Economy with Steve Alaniz & Luis RodriguezIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," we focus on the challenges and opportunities for small businesses in San Antonio. Guests Steve Alaniz and Luis Rodriguez applaud collaborative efforts in economic development and underscore the significance of a strategic focus. Alaniz and Rodriguez discuss the transformative impact COVID-19 had on chamber memberships and events, emphasizing the need for chambers of commerce to reinvent themselves and offer tangible value propositions through rapid adaptation. The conversation transitions into an examination of local economic developments in San Antonio, including the redevelopment of Hemisfair Park and the anticipated new d...2024-09-2440 minBeyond the BiteEp 38. Behind the Charter Propositions: Discussing the Who, What and Why with David ZammielloIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Charter Review Commission Co-Chair David Zammiello to discuss the upcoming charter propositions on the November 5th ballot. They dive deep into key topics, including the proposal to lift the cap on the city manager’s compensation and tenure, drawing from the robust debates and public input that shaped the Commission’s recommendations. Zammiello brings his extensive expertise in executive compensation oversight, offering a thoughtful perspective on the need to attract top talent for key positions while maintaining a balance between elected officials and th...2024-09-1743 minBeyond the BiteEp 37. From District Service to Mayoral Hopeful: Melissa Cabello Havrda’s JourneyCity Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda may have evolved over time, but she has remained loyal to the concepts of inclusivity, transparency, and community engagement in her decision-making. She believes that should be the goal for all city leaders to better represent the people of San Antonio.In this episode, Cabello Havrda shares candid experiences regarding the city's charter review process, her positions on the charter propositions, and touches on the complexities of municipal governance. She advocates for significant changes in city structure, such as transitioning council member terms to four years for effective project...2024-09-1032 minBeyond the BiteEp 36. Transformational Transit: Jon Gary Herrera on Why the New VIA Rapid System is Good for EveryoneIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Jon Gary Herrera to discuss the transformative impact of San Antonio's advanced rapid transit system. Herrera highlights the stark contrast between the city's transit budget vs the systems in Houston, Dallas and Austin. The conversation delves into the vital role of federal funding and the significance of maintaining an efficient transit system, especially in connecting residents to jobs and educational opportunities. Herrera also underscores the economic challenges faced by low-income individuals who struggle with transportation costs and limited access to employment opportunities.2024-09-0345 minBeyond the BiteEp 35. Investing in San Antonio's Future: Romanita Matta Barrera on Our Jobs & Talent PipelineIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Romanita Matta Barrera to discuss the strategic rebranding and initiatives of greaterSATX, formerly known as the San Antonio Economic Development Foundation. The conversation kicks off with a focus on the organization's 2021 rebranding, which aims to highlight its collaboration with eight regional partners in the San Antonio/Bexar County region. Matta Barrera underscores the importance of partnerships with neighboring regions like Austin to enhance geographic competitiveness and foster talent and trade flows. The integration of the Free Trade Alliance and SA Works into greaterSATX underscores their commitment...2024-08-2031 minBeyond the BiteEp 34. Clayton Perry Reflects on Leadership, Community, and Upcoming ElectionsIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, Host Eddie Aldrete sits down with former City Councilman Clayton Perry to delve into a host of issues facing San Antonio and Perry's personal journey. Perry opens up about a past mistake that was highly embarrassing, reflecting on the incident with an understanding of the subsequent consequences. He shares the lessons learned from it and emphasizes his commitment to avoiding similar pitfalls in the future. Perry's dedication to community service and his love for San Antonio shine through as he discusses his compassion for people and the importance of collaboration to address t...2024-08-0648 minBeyond the BiteEp 33. Rebranding, Advocacy, and Vision: The North San Antonio Chamber's Roadmap for the FutureIn this engaging episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Joe Irizarry, Board Chair, and Brett Finley, CEO of the North San Antonio Chamber, to discuss an array of significant topics as the chamber prepares for the upcoming legislative session in 2025. Among the key highlights are the proactive efforts being made in 2024 with interim study committees and advocacy work around the November charter election.Joe, Brett, and Eddie also explore the chamber's initiatives around leadership development, including programs such as the Chamber’s Civic Leadership Academy and Leadership Lab. There is...2024-07-0143 minBeyond the BiteEp 32. Councilwoman Marina Alderete-Gavito's Vision for A Better San AntonioIn the latest episode of "Beyond the Bite," City Councilwoman Marina Alderete-Gavito highlights the primary concerns of residents, starting with safety and security, as many people feel unsafe due to the growing homeless population. Alderete-Gavito emphasizes the importance of treating the homeless with care and compassion while also addressing the dangers they face living in unsafe conditions. She stresses the necessity of connecting them to adequate resources to improve the overall health of the community.Alderete-Gavito has also pushed to the forefront, the rise in stray dog populations as another significant safety issue affecting...2024-06-1830 minBeyond the BiteEp 31. Navigating San Antonio's Future: Councilman Manny Pelaez's Vision for Growth and ResilienceIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," host Eddie Aldrete is joined by special guest, San Antonio City Councilman Manny Pelaez, to delve into the complexities of promoting economic growth while preserving San Antonio's unique culture and authenticity. Pelaez shares insights on the city's economic development efforts, and extends to topics like business recruitment in Latin America, challenges in disaster preparedness, and the critical role of elected officials in addressing everyday issues that impact their constituents' lives. Pelaez emphasizes the need for a mayor who can balance preparing for growth with preserving the city's identity, tapping into the arts...2024-06-0432 min
Talk Is JerichoAnatomy of A Cover Band – Live From The Jericho CruiseLive from the Chris Jericho Rock & Wrestling Rager At Sea Five Alive, it’s American Idol (and TIJ) alum James Durbin, Fooz Fighters frontman Nick Rich, Guardians of the Jukebox & Fozzy founding guitarist Rich Ward, and Femme Halen guitarist Roseann Aldrete! The topic? Tribute bands! Hear why these stellar musicians LOVE their cover bands, and the lengths they go to convey the vibe, spirit, look and sound of their respective bands! James Durbin shares stories from the ultimate cover band experience, American Idol, what it was like fronting Quiet Riot, the advice he got from Judas Priest’s Rob Half...2024-05-241h 10
Blessing's podcastAnatomy of A Cover Band – Live From The Jericho CruiseLive from the Chris Jericho Rock & Wrestling Rager At Sea Five Alive, it’s American Idol (and TIJ) alum James Durbin, Fooz Fighters frontman Nick Rich, Guardians of the Jukebox & Fozzy founding guitarist Rich Ward, and Femme Halen guitarist Roseann Aldrete! The topic? Tribute bands! Hear why these stellar musicians LOVE their cover bands, and the lengths they go to convey the vibe, spirit, look and sound of their respective bands! James Durbin shares stories from the ultimate cover band experience, American Idol, what it was like fronting Quiet Riot, the advice he got from Judas Priest’s Rob Halford, and...2024-05-241h 05Beyond the BiteEp 30. Power Struggles and Public Service: San Antonio's Political Landscape with Kelton MorganIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," political consultant Kelton Morgan delves into the rationale behind the split among San Antonio City Councilmembers over the job performance of City Attorney Andy Segovia. The actions by the "block of five" council members led by Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda, exposed a rift between the elected body and city staff. Morgan suggests the frustration at City Hall could have been avoided with better communications and he also warns city council is becoming more politically charged now that several council members seek to be the next mayor of San Antonio.2024-05-2134 minBeyond the BiteEp 29. Cultivating Community Through Hemisfair with Andrés Andújar and Anne KrauseIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," host Eddie Aldrete delves into the transformative developments at Hemisfair in San Antonio, Texas. Guests Andrés Andújar and Anne Krause share insights about this burgeoning urban oasis, highlighting its role as a central hub in the city’s park system, drawing 600,000 to 700,000 visitors annually. They compare Hemisfair to other major city parks, discussing its economic and social impact on the local community, and the significance of its tree program, which features an innovative augmented reality recognition system allowing donors to leave personalized messages.The discussion also...2024-05-0741 minBeyond the BiteEp 28. The Circus of Politics: Mark McKinnon's Take on our Polarized Political LandscapeIn this episode, host Eddie Aldrete sits down with friend and colleague, Mark McKinnon to delve into an array of pivotal issues impacting the current political landscape. They kick off by addressing the wider challenges posed by political polarization within society. Their dialogue includes McKinnon's insightful observations from his address at Trinity University's Policymaker Speaker Series, and he shares his musings on the unpredictability shrouding the upcoming elections. The duo particularly laments the erosion of bipartisan cooperation and trust in institutions, citing historical instances of cross-party collaboration that seem a distant memory amidst today's toxic stew of partisanship. This...2024-04-2332 minBeyond the BiteEp 27. From Education to City Hall: John Courage and His Agenda for ChangeIn this episode of "Beyond the Bite," host Eddie Aldrete sits down with Councilman John Courage, who brings experience and insights into the pressing issues facing our city. Courage unveils his ambitious plan to bolster education by bringing 10,000 volunteers into elementary schools to aid students in critical areas such as reading, writing, and math. Addressing the city’s workforce development program, he identifies key hurdles like childcare and transportation that impede parents' participation in training programs, emphasizing the need for greater collaboration from businesses that have partnered with the workforce initiative.The conversation takes a...2024-04-0948 minBeyond the BiteEp 26. Mayor John Cowen Discusses Brownsville's Renaissance and Economic SurgeJoin us on this journey through the multifaceted challenges and profound transformations taking place in Brownsville, Texas, with Mayor John Cowen. Against the backdrop of water scarcity that impacts regional activities, Mayor Cowen outlines groundbreaking initiatives aimed at sustaining the city's economic growth and technological renaissance. He delves deep into the measures the city is taking to navigate the pressing issue of water shortages, from optimizing a desalination plant that already supplies 30% of the city's water to advocating for the construction of a weir dam under the 1944 Water Treaty with Mexico. The SpaceX phenomenon...2024-03-2649 minBeyond the BiteEp 25. Current Issues, Future Challenges & the 2025 Race for Mayor with Councilwoman Adriana Rocha GarciaIn this episode, Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia focuses on the critical issues facing her district and the city of San Antonio. Councilwoman Rocha Garcia candidly shares her experiences and the challenges she faced during her tenure, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Not shying away from personal anecdotes, she recounts the heartbreaking loss of six family members to the virus and how she had to navigate public service during such a trying time.The conversion reveals the Councilwoman's deep commitment to bettering her community and strengthening city infrastructure—illustrated through her work on broadband development fo...2024-03-1237 minBeyond the BiteEp 24. From Rates to Rooftops: San Antonio's Residential Real Estate Trends with Paul Basaldua and Bryan GlasshagelThis episode of Beyond the Bite features real estate experts Bryan Glasshagel, Senior Vice President of Zonda Metrostudy, and Paul Basaldua, CEO of Versatera Development. They navigate through the complex dynamics of the residential housing market in San Antonio and Bexar County, deliberating on the influences of fluctuating interest rates and evolving demographic trends. Glasshagel offers insights on the building industry's outlook as price adjustments loom amidst affordability challenges. Basaldua shares his experience with Versatera's ventures, underscoring San Antonio’s southward expansion and the ongoing investments in and around San Antonio. The...2024-02-2741 minBeyond the BiteEp 23. A Transformative Year in Office: Grant Moody's Resolute Stand on Tax Cuts, Public Safety & Public HealthIn this compelling episode of "Beyond the Bite," host Eddie Aldrete welcomes Precinct 3 Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody, who recently completed his first year in office. Moody reflects on his tenure, discussing his successful advocacy for a 20% homestead tax exemption for the University Health System in Bexar County, and he shares insights on the array of challenges faced, from addressing the county jail's maintenance and understaffing issues to his proposal for combining public and mental health services under the University Health System, emphasizing the importance of finding a capable replacement for the retiring CEO of the $3 billion hospital system.2024-02-1341 minBeyond the BiteEp 22. From Air Base to Innovation Hub: Change Agent Jim Perschbach on Port San Antonio's SuccessIn this groundbreaking episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete welcomes the visionary Jim Perschbach, President and CEO of Port San Antonio. Together, they explore the transformative journey of a former air force base into a booming tech innovation hub that is reshaping San Antonio's economic landscape. Perschbach shares the port's strategy of fostering a vibrant ecosystem brimming with talent and employers, thus resulting in a surge of job opportunities and enhancement of the city's stature in the tech and aviation sectors.The episode delves into the profound influence of San Antonio as a...2024-01-3043 minBeyond the BiteEp 21. Leadership and Legacy: Nelson Wolff Talks Leadership, Policy, and Power DynamicsAs a legislator, mayor and county judge, Nelson Wolff learned a lot along his journey and shares his successes as well as his failures and mistakes.From the creation of The Alamo Promise and the successful courtship of Toyota, he continues to emphasize how fostering job creation is paramount to a robust economy.Amidst a shifting demographic landscape, we explore the implications of declining population growth in the U.S. and Japan and talk about why Nelson believes in the power of immigration to infuse talent and hard work...2024-01-1638 minBeyond the BiteEp 20. Perspectives on San Antonio's Future with Councilmembers Marina Alderete-Gavito and Marc WhyteIn this insightful episode of Beyond the Bite, City Council members Marina Alderete-Gavito and Marc Whyte come together to discuss pressing issues facing San Antonio. Their conversation dives deep into the inefficiencies in government operations, particularly spotlighting animal care services and the challenges posed by dangerous dogs and year-round pet breeding. Despite differing opinions on a CPS rate increase—with Alderete-Gavito voting for it and Whyte proposing a halved increase—the two emphasize a united front on strategic investments for the city's surplus budget. Alderete-Gavito highlights the significance of protecting financially vulnerable citizens during rate increases, while Whyte stresses the...2024-01-0249 minBeyond the BiteEp 19. ADAPTING SPACES: Navigating Smaller Leases, Remote Work and the Office of the FutureIn this episode of 'Beyond the Bite', Eddie Aldrete hosts Leanne King, Anamaria Suescan-Fast, and Larry Mendez to discuss the evolving landscape of office spaces and remote work, along with the challenges and opportunities for employers. They review the practical necessities of adapting office strategies, focusing on the shift towards smaller leases, the complexities of state tax laws, and the increasing importance of visibility in the workplace. The discussion moves on to the financial implications involved in managing office spaces, and Larry Mendez talks about how to manage a lease buyout if you overestimate...2023-11-2854 minBeyond the BiteEp 18. The Evolution of the Greater San Antonio Chamber: Insights from Jeff Webster & Katie HarveyIn this episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete is in conversation with Jeff Webster, the newly appointed CEO of the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, and Katie Harvey, the outgoing board chair who spearheaded the CEO selection process. Jeff shares his plans and objectives as the new CEO, with a focus on supporting the local business community and enhancing economic development in the city. He also emphasizes the Chamber's role in advocacy at local, state, and federal levels. Katie provides insight into the CEO selection process, the changes made to the...2023-11-1440 minBeyond the BiteEp 17. Exploring the Impact of the San Antonio River Authority with Liza Gonzalez BarratacheaIn today's episode, we sit down with San Antonio River Authority board candidate Liza Gonzalez Barratachea, who will take us on a journey through the role and purpose of the River Authority in managing water resources, and the need for public engagement in safeguarding our natural spaces.Liza, born and raised in San Antonio, is a passionate advocate for water policy and has been actively involved in civic activities for many years. She is excited to share her insights and discuss her goals with River Authority should she be elected to serve. 2023-10-2433 minBeyond the BiteEp 16. From Chaos to Clarity: Reporting on the Uvalde Tragedy with Arelis Hernandez - Part TwoIn this episode, we continue our conversation with award-winning Washington Post journalist, Arelis Hernandez who discusses her coverage of the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas. Hernandez shares her firsthand experience of receiving the news, rushing to the scene and the challenges she faced in gathering accurate information in the chaos and confusion that ensued. Hernandez also highlights the months-long investigation conducted by The Washington Post, revealing failures by law enforcement that were featured in a 30-minute documentary she produced along with her colleagues Joyce Sohyun Lee and Sarah Cahlan at the Washington Post.Additionally, Hernandez d...2023-10-0528 minBeyond the BiteEp 15. Under the Lone Star: A Washington Post Reporter’s Journey through South Texas Politics – Part OneIn part one of this two-part episode of Beyond the Bite, we dive into the fascinating journey of Arelis Hernandez, a San Antonio-based journalist with The Washington Post who covers South Texas politics as well as immigration and border-related issues.She takes us through her path in journalism, to explaining how she landed at the Washington Post, and discusses how an election got her assigned to Texas. Once she landed in San Antonio, she cover the competitive election in the 28th congressional district currently held by Congressman Henry Cuellar, as well as how and...2023-10-0337 min
Practical LeadershipPractical Leadership with guest Eddie AldreteIn this episode, our guest Eddie Aldrete shares his remarkable journey from childhood curiosity to a passion-driven leadership path.Discover the importance of thinking three moves ahead, embracing proactive problem-solving, and the profound impact of listening to understand rather than to respond.Gain practical advice on fostering strong connections through prioritizing the important over the urgent.Tune in as we navigate the complexities of leadership, teamwork, and understanding human motivation.Watch full episode here: https://youtu.be/YHQgaK-y9uE#PracticalLeadershipPodcast #SanAntonioTexas #LeadershipInsights #EffectiveCommunication #ProactiveLeadership #UnderstandingPeople2023-09-191h 07Beyond the BiteEp 14. Powering the Future: How CPS Energy CEO Rudy Garza Navigates Reliability, Affordability and GrowthManaging a utility isn't easy, and when you throw in a once in a hundred year winter storm, record breaking heat waves, pandemic supply chain backlogs, inflation, and supply and demand lines that come close to crossing too often, well that makes life a little more challenging. But that's the job Rudy Garza signed up for when he became the permanent CEO for CPS Energy. In this episode, we will hear how he manages all of that plus sustainability, affordability and the concerns of the community.Links and Resources:CPS Energy Vision 2027https...2023-09-1952 min
Texas Wants to KnowHow does immigration impact the state's economy?The Texas population grew at a rate of nearly 16% between 2010 and 2020 -- more than double the growth rate of the U.S. As the country's second state with more than 30 million people, how has the economy reacted? This week on Texas Wants to Know, we look at that question through the lens of healthcare, job growth, and the state budget. Stacey Pogue, senior policy analyst at the nonpartisan public policy nonprofit Every Texan, explains the healthcare angle. Business consultant, former chair of the National Immigration Forum, Del Rio native, and host of the Beyond the...2023-09-0726 minBeyond the BiteEp 13. Texas HB 2127: The Game Changing Texas Regulatory Consistency ActTexas House Bill 2127 is officially called the “Texas Regulatory Consistency Act,” but others know it as the “Stay In Your Lane Bill,” and even the “Death Star Bill.” But as of September 1, 2023, everyone will have to call it the law.On one side of the bill are the job creators and paycheck providers that heavily supported its passage to limit municipalities and counties from rules, ordinances or any type of regulation that fall under state jurisdiction. On the other side are municipalities that want to mandate employee benefits like paid sick leave, labor union supported is...2023-09-0145 minBeyond the BiteEp 12. City Pulse: Unveiling San Antonio’s Budget Vision with City Manager Erik WalshThe budget proposed by City Manager Erik Walsh is revealing in its response to resident needs and concerns. It will put more cops on the streets, work harder and smarter to shelter the homeless, and it identifies the massive expansion and renovation of our airport as a top priority. If you have called 311 to get a hold of Animal Care Services, there’s a good chance no one answered your call. That’s about to change.Links and Resources:FY 2024 Proposed BudgetVideo of City Manager Erik Walsh Presenting 2024 BudgetPodc...2023-08-2245 minBeyond the BiteEp 11. RISING ABOVE THE DIVISION: The San Antonio Equity Alliance's Roadmap for Restoring Civic EngagementThere is a new political player in town and their members’ goal is to elect people to the San Antonio City Council who have a shared, community vision, not a political ideology. They call themselves a Coalition of the Willing that represents the Employee and the Employer. But the important thing to know is that they are active and engaged in city politics now, and they want candidates to know they are ready to talk. Hear about what drove them to get started, what role they played in the May 6th and June 10th elections, and what their plans are f...2023-07-2552 minBeyond the BiteEp 10. Budgeting Time with Congressman Jodey ArringtonAs chairman of the US House Budget Committee, West Texas Congressman Jodey Arrington spends a lot of his time trying to convince his colleagues to stop spending money we don’t have. In this episode he talks about his love for West Texas and the hard-working, God-fearing people of the 19th congressional district of Texas. We also discuss his concerns about the Chinese government and what he’s looking for in the next president of the United States.Links and Resourceshttps://twitter.com/RepArringtonhttps://www.instagram.com/repjodeyarrington/@BeyondTheBiteEA@AldreteEddiehttps://budget.house.gov/ht...2023-07-1127 minBeyond the BiteEp 9. Presidential Candidate Will HurdFormer Congressman Will Hurd jumps into the presidential race. He says this country needs a “reboot,” we need solid leadership, and says Americans need to move on from Donald Trump. The former CIA Director also says we need to fear the Chinese government, not their people or culture, but their government and that we are most definitely in a Cold War with China. Inspired by his new wife, Lynlie, Hurd is ready to show America a different style of leadership.Links and Resourceshttps://www.willbhurd.com/Twitter: @WillHurdInstagram: willhurdInstagram: Lynlie@AldreteEddie@BeyondtheBiteEA2023-06-2752 minBeyond the BiteEp 8. Runoffs Yield a New City CouncilThis episode analyzes who won the runoff elections for San Antonio City Council districts 1 and 7, and why and how they won. Additionally, we ask newly sworn in city councilman Marc Whyte and runoff winners Marina Alderete Gavito and Sukh Kaur, questions about the priority issues they plan to focus on, how they plan to get work done with potentially four of their council colleagues running for mayor, and we asked if the new business backed groups San Antonio Equity Alliance and BetterSA supported their campaigns and what difference that might make.Links and Resources2023-06-1353 minBeyond the BiteEp 7. Leading The Way on Immigration with Jennie Murray, CEO, National Immigration ForumEver wondered why Congress can’t fix our broken immigration issue? Perhaps it suits them better to use it as a political piñata. In this episode, there will be no talk of Title 42 or the border surge. This episode is on how to fix the immigration system and how the National Immigration Forum is leading the way on this conversation.Links and Resources:National Immigration Forum Action Fund – ShiningGeorge H. W. Bush And Ronald Reagan Debate On Immigration In 1980 | TIMEBill Clinton on Illegal Immigration at 1995 State of the Unionhttps://immigrationforum.org/@AldreteEddie@BeyondTh...2023-05-3038 minBeyond the BiteEp 6. John Dickson on the Expansion of San Antonio’s International AirportSuccessful cybersecurity entrepreneur John Dickson talks about going through a corporate acquisition, his hopes and fears in our abilities to protect ourselves from cyber attacks and what the new airport expansion will mean for San Antonio residents.Links and Resources:https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/597684/sandworm-by-andy-greenberg/https://samcoinc.org/@johnbdickson@AldreteEddie@a_greenberg@BeyondTheBite@Ron_Nirenberg@JLeighSaucedo@SATairport@Greater_SATX@SAmobilityPodcast Production Services by EveryWord Media2023-05-1633 minBeyond the BiteEp 5. Wins, Losses, Runoffs and What’s Next for the New San Antonio City CouncilA look at who won, who lost, and who wound up in the June 10th runoff election. We also talk about the defeat of Proposition A, what lies ahead for the new City Council, and who the likely candidates are for the 2025 San Antonio Race for Mayor.Resources and Links:@jeffswebster @BeyondTheBiteEA @AldreteEddiePodcast Production Services by EveryWord Media2023-05-0949 minBeyond the BiteEp 4. On the Border with Congressman Tony GonzalesCongressman Tony Gonzales is on a mission to protect his constituents from the fentanyl coming across the border, he is working to help the people of Uvalde heal, and he is helping presidential candidates see the border up close and personal. He also thinks Congress needs to spend more time on “legal” immigration so that people have pathways to come to this country. Catch his comments on these issues and so much more in this episode.Topics and Questions Covered:(2:02) - Gonzales’ trip to Mexico City to visit with the President of Mexico, Andrés...2023-05-0243 min
bigcitysmalltown with Bob Rivard4. US-Mexico Relations: A Candid Conversation with Eddie Aldrete Eddie Aldrete was just living his life in a suburban part of Washington DC, but he unexpectedly found himself at the forefront of bridging the US-Mexico relations. His career has taken him on a journey of advocating for a more inclusive and economically prosperous future, earning him respect from both sides of the border. What impact will Eddie's unique perspective have on the future of US-Mexico relations? In this episode of big city small town with Bob Rivard, we will: Delve into the complexities of US-Mexico relations, focusing on immigration, border security, and economic possibilities.2023-04-2440 minBeyond the BiteEp 3. Service is Joy: Louis Barrios on the Bumpy Road to Success for Los Barrios RestaurantsLouis Barrios was born into a life of service. He serves his creator, his family, his community and his customers. His work ethic is both inspiring and infectious, and he has worked alongside his sister Diana to build the Los Barrios family enterprise into the successful business it is today. We talk to Louis about the challenges of being in the restaurant industry, and learn how he and his sister overcame the challenges from a pandemic shutdown. Links and Resources:https://www.losbarriosrestaurant.com/@BarriosLouis@BeyondTheBiteEAPodcast Production Serv...2023-04-2134 minBeyond the BiteEp 2. The Business of AdvocacyWith the recent failed merger attempt between the San Antonio Chamber and the North San Antonio Chamber, we pull back to the 30,000 foot level and ask the broad question of what role should a chamber play in San Antonio, and whether our leading chambers are fulfilling that role. We also ask the broader question: Are our local chambers in the business of advocacy and if so, what is the current state of the advocacy of business community issues.Links and Resources:https://www.sachamber.org/https://www.northsachamber.com/@PaulBasalduaTX@AldreteCristina@BeyondTheBiteEA...2023-04-2049 minBeyond the BiteEp 1. The Justice Charter PropositionThis episode delves into the pitfalls, dangers and unintended consequences of Proposition A, and lessons learned from Portland, Seattle, Tacoma, San Francisco, Chicago and Austin. The more people learn about how Prop A incentivizes theft of property, services and damage to property, the more they are opposed to it. Links and Resources: https://sanantoniosafe.org/https://www.protectsa.net/Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media2023-04-1840 minBeyond the BiteMinding the Business and Stories of San Antonio and South TexasBeyond the Bite is a podcast hosted by Eddie Aldrete that explores the stories behind the business community of San Antonio and South Texas. Eddie interviews job creators, business leaders, and community pillars, offering unique perspectives on the economic drivers of the region. With decades of experience at the intersection of business, public policy, and politics, Eddie is known for his advocacy efforts and relationship building. Tune in to Beyond the Bite to discover the stories that shape our region’s future.Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media2023-04-1701 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastDreamers need a pathway to citizenship, say Rio Grande Valley leadersEDINBURG, Texas - Did you know that over 14,420 Dreamers live in the McAllen metro region and contribute $39.8M in federal, state, and local taxes? This information was provided at a recent forum co-hosted by the Texas Business Immigration Coalition, the Texas Opportunity Coalition and UT-Rio Grande Valley. The event was held at the Edinburg campus of UT-Rio Grande Valley.A Dreamer is a person who has lived in the United States without official authorization since coming to the country as a minor. People of this description who meet certain conditions are eligible for a special i...2021-07-0527 min
Latino Business ReportThe Complicated Plight of Immigrants, Dreamers and DACA Recipients in the U.S.Episode 14 – In this episode Host, J.R. Gonzales has a candid conversation with Eddie Aldrete about Immigration, Dreamers, and DACA. Aldrete has been named one of the Top 100 most influential figures in Texas politics and government and one of the most influential people in San Antonio.
As an IBC senior vice president, Eddie Aldrete monitors local and federal policies that directly impact the financial services industry, international trade, economic development, immigration, border security, and other issues that impact the communities the bank serves.
From 2018 to 2021, Aldrete served a three-year term as chairman of the board of...2021-03-2456 min