Episode 114

full
Published on:

29th Dec 2025

Denton, Texas is building a future driven by long-term planning, culture, and economic growth.

In this news-style episode of ‪@thebuildingtexasshow‬ host Justin McKenzie sits down with Denton Mayor Gerard Hudspeth to discuss how the city is navigating rapid North Texas growth while preserving its unique identity.

From higher education and workforce pipelines to major employers, tourism, housing, and large-scale master-planned development, this conversation provides a grounded look at what’s shaping Denton’s future.

Mayor Hudspeth explains why cities must plan beyond election cycles, how Denton is creating pathways for graduates to stay and build careers, and what residents, visitors, and site selectors should be watching as the city moves toward 2026.

Companies, Institutions, and Brands Mentioned in This Episode The interview references several organizations that play a direct role in Denton’s economy, workforce, and quality of life, including:

‪@HEB‬ – Retail anchor for upcoming master-planned development

‪@PeterbiltMotorsCompany‬ – Major employer and manufacturing presence

‪@UofNorthTexas‬ Workforce, logistics, music, and public administration pipeline

‪@TXWomans‬ – Education and healthcare workforce contributor

Tetra Pak – Industrial and manufacturing operations

‪@Hillwood‬ – Partner on Denton’s landmark master-planned community

‪@buceesyt‬ – Regional tourism and retail draw

‪@DiscoverDenton‬ – Tourism, events, and visitor information hub

About ‪@thebuildingtexasshow‬

The Building Texas Show is a statewide media platform focused on telling the real stories behind Texas cities, communities, and economic growth.

Hosted by Justin McKenzie, the show features in-depth conversations with:

Mayors and civic leaders

Economic developers and site selectors

Entrepreneurs, operators, and investors

Community builders shaping Texas’s future

Each episode is designed to be discoverable, evergreen, and useful—helping audiences understand how Texas communities grow, plan, and compete in a rapidly changing economy.


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About the Podcast

The Building Texas Show
The Building Texas Show with host, Justin McKenzie, about the balance of business and governance. Each week, we’ll interview the local leaders affecting the issues and uncover the power you have to forge the future.

www.buildingtexasshow.com

About your host

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Justin McKenzie

Based in Boerne, Texas, Justin hosts The Building Texas Show—a podcast spotlighting the bold minds shaping the future of the Lone Star State. When he’s not building teams or building momentum, he’s out exploring, discovering new ideas, or connecting with the people who make it all worthwhile.

As Chief Operating Officer at Charity Ace, Justin helps shape the engine behind the mission—bringing sharp strategy and innovative structure to fuel long-term growth. He believes in business as a force for good, and shows up every day to prove what’s possible when purpose meets execution.