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Greater 210

Author: The Greater San Antonio Chamber

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Presented by the Greater San Antonio Chamber, this podcast spotlights the voices shaping the future of our region. Join us as we sit down with business and community leaders to explore the ideas, initiatives, and innovations driving economic growth, workforce development, civic engagement, and quality of life in San Antonio.

Since 1894, the Chamber has championed local business as a force for good—supporting our military, infrastructure, education, and community well-being. Through these conversations, we bring the collective thinking of our members into action and celebrate the people and businesses who are making a lasting impact.

Whether you're a business owner, community advocate, or simply passionate about San Antonio's future, this podcast offers insights, inspiration, and opportunities to get involved.
19 Episodes
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Space is no longer just exploration. It is becoming one of the most important economic opportunities of the next generation.In this episode of Greater 210, Jeff Webster sits down with Brad Morrison, Texas Space Commission member, veteran, and entrepreneur, to explore how Texas is positioning itself at the center of the rapidly growing space economy.Brad shares his journey from the U.S. Air Force and early cyber operations to building companies in the defense and aerospace sectors, and now helping shape the future of space innovation in Texas. The conversation highlights how San Antonio’s leadership in cybersecurity, intelligence, and national security uniquely positions the region to play a critical role in the next phase of aerospace growth.They also discuss the rise of private space companies, the role of dual-use technologies, and why Texas is making strategic investments through the Texas Space Commission to attract industry, create jobs, and drive long-term economic growth.As the state prepares for massive population growth and increasing demand for energy, infrastructure, and innovation, space is emerging as a key pillar of Texas’ future economy.If you want to understand where the next wave of economic opportunity is coming from and how San Antonio fits into it, this is a conversation worth hearing.Chapters:(00:00) – Why Space Is the Next Economic Frontier(01:20) – Brad Morrison’s Background: Military to Aerospace(05:30) – San Antonio’s Role in Cyber and National Security(10:40) – The Rise of the Commercial Space Industry(15:30) – Why Texas Is Investing in Space(21:00) – Inside the Texas Space Commission(27:00) – Jobs, Growth, and the Future of Texas(29:30) – The Texas Space Summit and What’s NextLinks and Resources:Greater San Antonio Chamber - https://www.sachamber.org/Texas International Space Summit - https://texasspacesummit.comTexas Space Commission - https://space.texas.gov/Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media
Fiesta is more than a celebration. It is one of San Antonio’s most powerful drivers of community, culture, and economic impact.In this episode of Greater 210, Chamber President and CEO Jeff Webster sits down with Jim Mery, President-Elect of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, to go inside one of the city’s most iconic traditions.They explore how Fiesta has grown from a single parade in 1891 into an 11-day celebration with more than 100 events, all supporting local nonprofits and fueling millions of dollars back into the community.Jim shares the history behind Fiesta, the role of participating member organizations, and what it takes to plan and execute an event of this scale. From supporting small businesses and nonprofits to attracting visitors from across Texas and beyond, Fiesta plays a critical role in San Antonio’s identity and economic growth.If you want to better understand what makes San Antonio unique and how community-driven events can shape a city’s future, this is a conversation worth listening to.Key TakeawaysFiesta generates significant economic impact and supports hundreds of local nonprofitsThe celebration reflects San Antonio’s deep culture, heritage, and community spiritOver 100 events take place across 11 days, driven by local organizationsTourism and regional visibility are key priorities for future growthPublic safety, city coordination, and planning are critical to executionFiesta strengthens small businesses, families, and community organizationsTimestamps(00:00) – Introduction to Fiesta and its significance(03:50) – The role of nonprofits and community impact(05:20) – Economic impact and support for local businesses(09:00) – The cultural and family-focused nature of Fiesta(10:30) – Supporting the military and Military City USA(12:00) – How Fiesta is planned and organized each year(14:00) – Expanding tourism and attracting new audiences(17:30) – Safety, logistics, and city coordination(19:00) – How to attend, get tickets, and participate(20:30) – The scale and size of Fiesta crowds(21:30) – Final thoughts and invitation to FiestaLinks and ResourcesGreater San Antonio Chamberhttps://www.sachamber.org/Fiesta San Antoniohttps://fiestasanantonio.org/Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
What shapes a leader who is committed to fighting for her community?In this episode of Greater 210, Jeff Webster sits down with Bexar County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores to talk about her remarkable journey, her priorities for the community, and the challenges she has faced along the way.Commissioner Clay-Flores shares her story growing up in San Antonio, overcoming early hardships, and earning scholarships to Princeton and Harvard before returning home to serve her community. The conversation explores her work in education, nonprofit leadership, and public service before running for office and becoming the first woman of color elected to Bexar County Commissioners Court in more than a century.She also discusses a deeply personal challenge: her recent colon cancer diagnosis and how that experience inspired her to launch a community effort to raise awareness about early screening and prevention.The discussion also highlights important issues shaping the future of Bexar County, including infrastructure investment, mental health services, economic development, and the importance of bringing communities together through shared civic priorities.This conversation offers a powerful reminder that leadership, service, and resilience can help move San Antonio from great to greater.Timestamps:01:00 – Rebeca Clay-Flores’ background and early life in San Antonio03:30 – Returning to San Antonio to serve in education and nonprofit work04:30 – Running for office and defeating a longtime incumbent05:30 – A personal health challenge and colon cancer diagnosis07:30 – Launching a community effort for Colon Cancer Awareness Month09:00 – Why early screening and awareness matter11:30 – Faith, leadership, and personal resilience13:30 – Policy priorities: healthcare access and mental health services18:30 – Economic development and infrastructure investment22:00 – Regional planning and transportation through the MPO24:00 – Funding challenges for infrastructure growth in TexasLinks and Resources:Greater San Antonio Chamber: https://www.sachamber.org/Colon Cancer Awareness Month (March): https://www.cancer.org/Bexar County Commissioners Court: https://www.bexar.org/Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
When federal decisions shape your city’s future, you cannot afford to sit on the sidelines.In this episode of Greater 210, host Katie Ferrier, Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Economic Development at the Greater San Antonio Chamber, is joined by SA to DC 2026 co-chairs Kevin Matula (USAA) and Krista Piferrer (FirstDay Foundation).They break down why more than 200 business, civic, nonprofit, and community leaders travel to Washington each year with one unified message. From advocating for Joint Base San Antonio and major infrastructure priorities to strengthening relationships with members of Congress and their staff, SA to DC is more than a trip. It is a long-term strategy.The conversation highlights how consistency, collaboration, and relationship-building drive results for San Antonio and contribute to the broader growth of Texas. Whether it is securing direct flights, protecting military assets, or ensuring our city has a seat at the table, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how advocacy fuels economic development.If you care about the future of San Antonio, this conversation explains why showing up matters.Timestamps00:00 – Welcome and introduction with Katie Ferrier 01:00 – What is SA to DC and why it matters 02:25 – Joint Base San Antonio and national security priorities 03:30 – Why traveling as a unified delegation makes a difference 09:45 – Building relationships, not just making asks 11:50 – Defining success in federal advocacy 15:40 – Why in-person conversations matter 17:45 – 2026 programming preview and keynote announcement 18:50 – Who should participate in SA to DC 20:30 – Final thoughts on showing up for San AntonioResources MentionedGreater San Antonio Chamber: https://www.sachamber.org/SA to DC Information and Registration: https://www.sachamber.org/Joint Base San Antonio: https://www.jbsa.mil/Punchbowl News: https://punchbowl.news/Stay ConnectedFollow the Greater San Antonio Chamber on LinkedIn and social media for updates on SA to DC and other advocacy efforts shaping our region.Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
San Antonio is growing fast, and our energy needs are growing with it.In this episode of Greater 210, Jeff Webster sits down with CPS Energy CEO Rudy Garza to talk about how the nation’s largest municipally owned electric and gas utility is preparing for the future. From nuclear, wind, and solar to battery storage and grid upgrades, CPS Energy is balancing reliability, affordability, and long-term growth.Rudy shares his journey to leading the organization, the investments being made to support new businesses, and how CPS continues to deliver strong returns to the City of San Antonio while maintaining competitive rates.If you care about economic development, infrastructure, and the future of our city, this conversation offers a clear look at how San Antonio is being powered for what’s next.Connect with us!https://www.sachamber.org/Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
Texas is growing at an unprecedented pace, and infrastructure is at the center of it all.In this episode, Chamber President and CEO Jeff Webster sits down with Texas Transportation Commissioner Alex Meade to discuss how TxDOT is managing more than $100 billion in transportation investments while keeping up with rapid population growth across the state.From the $5 billion in active projects in the San Antonio region to the long-term vision for the Texas Triangle, Commissioner Meade shares how transportation fuels economic development, supports commerce, and positions Texas for continued growth. The conversation covers funding challenges, border trade impacts, regional project prioritization, and why building consensus is just as important as securing funding.As San Antonio continues to grow at the heart of Texas, this episode highlights how strategic infrastructure investments will shape the future of our city and strengthen the state as a whole.🎧 Listen to learn how transportation policy drives opportunity across Greater San Antonio and beyond.Connect with us!https://www.sachamber.org/Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
San Antonio’s downtown is being reimagined, and Hemisfair Park sits at the center of it.On this episode of Greater 210, Chamber CEO Jeff Webster talks with Melissa Robinson, Interim CEO of the Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation, about the vision guiding one of the city’s most important redevelopment efforts. Melissa shares how Hemisfair is honoring its history while creating vibrant public spaces, new neighborhoods, and long-term economic opportunity.They discuss the master plan for Hemisfair, partnerships tied to major downtown projects, and what this transformation means for residents, businesses, and visitors. It is a behind-the-scenes look at how collaboration, thoughtful design, and community focus are shaping the future of downtown San Antonio.
In this episode we explore San Antonio's Ready to Work program, a transformative workforce development initiative funded by voter-approved sales tax. City Manager Erik Walsh, Advisory Board Chair Ben Peavy (Accenture), and Program Director Mike Ramsey discuss how this program is connecting local employers with trained talent while transforming lives across the community. With over 24,000 people through the intake process and 1,100+ companies hiring from the program, Ready to Work is bridging the gap between employers' needs and job seekers from underserved communities. Learn how businesses of all sizes can tap into this workforce pipeline, the role of apprenticeships, and why this represents the largest economic development investment a city is making in itself anywhere in the country.
Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito joins the podcast to discuss the dynamics of today’s San Antonio City Council and why building strong, respectful relationships across political perspectives is essential to getting results. She shares insights into her priorities, including addressing long-neglected vacant properties, evaluating policies and services to better respond to homelessness, supporting a strong business climate, and ensuring the City delivers the core services residents expect. Join us for a thoughtful conversation with one of San Antonio’s most dynamic city leaders!
In this episode, we sit down with City Councilman Marc Whyte to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing San Antonio’s future. We dive into the realities of city budgeting, economic development, public safety, and the impact of landmark projects like the downtown arena. Get a behind-the-scenes look into how our city’s leaders are working to ensure a safer, more prosperous, and dynamic San Antonio!
Get ready, San Antonio!In this episode, we dive into the city’s electric future from the legendary Spurs and iconic Rodeo to a reimagined downtown on the verge of transformation.Host Jeff Webster, President & CEO of the Greater San Antonio Chamber, sits down with:Judge Peter Sakai, Bexar County JudgeRC Buford, CEO of the San Antonio SpursCody Davenport, CEO of the San Antonio Stock Show & RodeoTogether, they break down Propositions A and B, and how these initiatives will drive job growth, create new opportunities for local businesses, and spark development across every neighborhood.This isn’t just about new buildings; it’s about revitalizing communities, empowering youth, and ensuring every resident feels the momentum.Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just arrived, this episode will leave you fired up about the future and proud to call the Alamo City home.Hit play to catch the excitement, get the facts, and see how you can be part of San Antonio’s next chapter!
What does it take to represent one of San Antonio’s most dynamic and diverse districts? Join us for a candid conversation with District 3 City Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran as she sits down with Chamber President & CEO Jeff Webster for a wide-ranging discussion on her fresh start in a new term, serving a district that spans historic missions, legacy neighborhoods, and booming developments. Hear the Councilwoman's insights into collaborating with a new mayor and council, how she balances the needs of established residents and new stakeholders, and what it’s like to juggle city priorities under public scrutiny. If you care about the crossroads of growth, tradition, and the power of public service in Greater San Antonio, this episode is for you!
Former San Antonio Mayor Henry Cisneros always captivates audiences as no one has a deeper understanding of our past or a more exciting vision for our future! Express-News Publisher Mark Medici talks with Henry about his passion for San Antonio, the progress we've made over the past 40 years, the current debate over the Sports & Entertainment District, the opportunities for growth in key sectors, and the explosive growth that's expected between here and Austin in the next 25 years.
Join us as we sit down with Jim Perschbach, President & CEO of Port San Antonio. Some of the most important technical advancements on the planet are happening at the Port as they are on the cutting edge of generative AI, advanced air mobility, aviation advancements, cybersecurity innovation and much more.
From the Pentagon’s Halls to City Hall to JBSA’s Dining Hall, San Antonio is known as Military City USA. Learn why and what we need to do to keep it that way in this wide-ranging conversation with Major General Juan Ayala, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), Director, Military & Veteran Affairs, City of San Antonio. You’ll also hear the behind-the-scenes stories of the Army North & Army South consolidation, the upcoming Warrior Games, our chances of attracting DHA to San Antonio, and more.
Kate Rogers outlines San Antonio’s ambitious vision for the Alamo, touching oneverything from the origins of Travis’ line in the sand, the treasures in the Phil Collinscollection, and the story of Pee-wee Herman’s bike coming to the Alamo. Learn how theredevelopment of Texas’ most iconic historical site will improve the visitor experience forgenerations to come!Links and Resources:The Alamo
Saddle in as we discuss all things Rodeo with Executive Director & CEO Cody Davenport. In this episode of Greater 210 we discuss the future of the San Antonio Rodeo, renovations at the Frost Bank Center and the future of the Eastside of San Antonio.
We sit down with UTSA's newest head coach Jeff Traylor where we discuss the upcoming football season, future of sports for UTSA, and more! All here on the Greater 210!
In this episode, San Antonio Sports CEO Jenny Carnes delves into the business of sports in San Antonio, talking with local leaders about the proposed downtown sports entertainment district (Project Marvel), the 2025 Final Four, the incredible success of the Alamo Bowl, the impact of NIL on UTSA and much more!Links and Resources:Home - San Antonio Chamber of CommerceHome - San Antonio SportsVisit San Antonio, Texas | Your Guide to the Alamo CityHome Page - UTSA Athletics - Official Athletics WebsiteHome - Valero Alamo Bowl
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