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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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