United We Podcast

Hosted by United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce

Business NewsInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

May 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Discover firsthand the stories of resilience, innovation, and collaboration that define our Chamber members. Learn from the experiences of those who are shaping our city's future and gain insights into the strategies, ideas, and initiatives propelling our local economy forward. Whether you're a business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a community member passionate about the pulse of Corpus Christi, join us on this podcast to explore the dynamic tapestry of our coastal commerce and uncover the people and places that make our community thrive.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

May 27, 2026Episode 415 min

In Focus: Esperanza de Tejas w/ Brianna Davis, Esperanza de Tejas

On this episode of In Focus, Gloria Fuentes sits down with Brianna Davis, Founder and CEO of Esperanza de Tejas, to talk about the organization’s mission to break down barriers and help families move from surviving to thriving.Brianna shares the story behind Esperanza, the impact they’re making across 29 counties, and the opening of their new resource center in Corpus Christi. From Hope’s Closet and virtual case management to mobile community connection centers and workforce support, Esperanza de Tejas is meeting families where they are and helping uplift the Coastal Bend community.Learn more about Esperanza de Tejas, their current needs, and how you can support their work through donations, workforce clothing, and community partnerships.In Focus is a member-exclusive spotlight from the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, going beyond the logo to explore the people, purpose, and progress behind the businesses and organizations shaping our region.

May 14, 2026Episode 620 min

The Brief: Safe Boating, Coastal Recreation & Water Safety w/ Tom Gottemoeller

In this episode of The Brief, we sit down with Tom Gottemoeller of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary to discuss National Safe Boating Week and why boating safety matters in a coastal community like the Coastal Bend.From kayaks and paddle craft to larger recreational boats, Tom breaks down the importance of being prepared before getting on the water. The conversation covers life jackets, boating under the influence, safety courses, local water recreation, and the simple steps boaters can take to protect themselves and others.As more residents and visitors take advantage of the Coastal Bend’s waterways, this episode highlights how safety, awareness, and responsibility help keep our community strong on and off the water.

May 6, 2026Episode 511 min

The Brief: Coastal Bend to D.C., Advocacy & Federal Priorities w/ Gus Barrera

In this episode of The Brief, we sit down with Gus Barrera, Chair of the Coastal Bend to Washington, D.C. Delegation to break down one of the Chamber’s most important advocacy efforts: taking the Coastal Bend’s priorities directly to the nation’s capital.From water and infrastructure to trade, workforce, and regional growth, Gus shares how this trip goes far beyond a few meetings, it’s a coordinated, strategic effort to ensure our region is heard where it matters most.We dive into why showing up in person makes a difference, how federal funding decisions impact Corpus Christi, and what’s at stake for the Coastal Bend as key policies and agreements including trade and infrastructure investments continue to evolve.Beyond policy, this episode highlights the power of regional collaboration, the importance of telling our story, and why advocacy is critical to sustaining growth, opportunity, and economic momentum across South Texas.Topics include:• What the Coastal Bend to D.C. trip is and why it matters• How federal advocacy impacts funding, infrastructure, and growth• Key priorities: water, the Port of Corpus Christi, I-69, and workforce• Why trade agreements like USMCA are critical to the region• The importance of showing up in person to tell our story• Balancing growth with responsible development in Corpus Christi• How the Economic Empowerment Committee supports small businessesThe Brief is where policy meets business from City Hall to the state Capitol to Washington, D.C. with a focus on jobs, infrastructure, and opportunity in Corpus Christi.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on the policies shaping our regional economy.

April 16, 2026Episode 323 min

In Focus: Building the Game & Community w/ Eran Hemi, Corpus Christi FC

In Episode 3 of In Focus, the member-exclusive podcast of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, VP of Membership Gloria Fuentes sits down with Aaron Hemi, Director of Communications for Corpus Christi FC.As Corpus Christi’s first professional soccer team, Corpus Christi FC is bringing a new level of energy, opportunity, and community pride to the Coastal Bend. From building a fan-driven organization to creating pathways for local athletes, the team is shaping more than just a game — it’s building a movement.Aaron shares insights on: • What it takes to launch and grow a professional sports team in Corpus Christi • How communications, marketing, and partnerships work together to build brand awareness • The game-day experience and what fans can expect at matches • Opportunities for local businesses to get involved and gain exposure • How Corpus Christi FC is connecting with the community and inspiring the next generation of playersFrom nonstop match energy to meaningful community engagement, this episode highlights how Corpus Christi FC is growing the game while bringing people together across the Coastal Bend.🎙️ In Focus is a member-exclusive spotlight from the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce—exploring the people, purpose, and progress behind the businesses shaping our region.

April 8, 2026Episode 215 min

The Next Wave: Life on the Water & Maritime Careers w/ Jacob Granbury

Welcome back to The Next Wave — a United We Podcast spotlighting young professionals and the impact they’re making across the Coastal Bend.In this episode, we sit down with Jacob Granbury, a maritime transportation student at Texas A&M University–Galveston, to talk about turning a lifelong passion for the water into a real career. From growing up surfing and sailing in Corpus Christi to training on ships and crossing the Atlantic, Jacob shares what it’s really like to pursue a life at sea.We talk about:• What maritime careers actually look like behind the scenes• The hands-on experience of training at sea and working on real vessels• Leadership, organization, and bringing new ideas into traditional systems• Why asking questions and following your passion matters more than having it all figured outWhether you're exploring career paths or looking for something outside the traditional route, this episode is all about finding your direction — and chasing it.This is The Next Wave. This is what’s next.

March 30, 2026Episode 413 min

The Brief: Windstorm Insurance, Rates & Coastal Risk w/ Greg Smith

In this episode of The Brief, we sit down with Greg Smith — Coastal Representative on the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association Board of Directors — to break down one of the most important (and often overlooked) issues impacting the Coastal Bend: windstorm insurance.From recent legislative changes to how insurance rates are actually determined, Greg shares insight into what’s driving costs — and why, for the first time in years, there may be less pressure for rate increases. We also dive into how the system works behind the scenes, including the “funding stack,” reinsurance, and how risk is shared across the state — all of which directly impact the cost of living for homeowners and businesses along the Texas coast.Beyond policy, Greg offers practical advice for policyholders, including what to look for in your coverage, how to manage rising premiums, and why your roof may be the most important investment you make before the next storm.Topics include:• Why windstorm insurance is such a major cost for coastal communities • Legislative changes reducing pressure on insurance rates • How reinsurance impacts premiums (and where that money goes) • What policyholders should know about deductibles and valuation increases • Why roof quality is critical to minimizing damage and claims • How major storms and even localized events can impact the systemThe Brief is where policy meets business — from City Hall to the state Capitol to Washington, D.C. — with a focus on jobs, infrastructure, and opportunity in Corpus Christi.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on the policies shaping our regional economy.

March 26, 2026Episode 119 min

The Next Wave: Building Community & Opportunity w/ Alissa Ramirez

Welcome to the very first episode of The Next Wave — a United We Podcast spotlighting young professionals and the impact they’re making across the Coastal Bend.In this episode, we sit down with Alissa Ramirez, Assistant Director of Student Transition Programs at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and a leader within the young professionals community. Alissa shares her journey through higher education, her involvement with Young Professionals of the Coastal Bend, and her passion for helping others grow, connect, and find their path.We talk about:• Finding your career path and growing within it• Why getting involved in your community matters• The value of networking and mentorship• How young professionals are shaping the future of the Coastal BendWhether you're just starting your career or looking to get more involved locally, this episode is all about taking that first step and making an impact.This is The Next Wave. This is what’s next.

March 19, 2026Episode 216 min

In Focus: Community, Conservation & Connection – Melanie Holland, Texas State Aquarium

In Episode 2 of In Focus, the member-exclusive podcast of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, VP of Membership Gloria Fuentes sits down with Melanie Holland, Corporate Partner Coordinator at the Texas State Aquarium and Chamber Ambassador of the Month.As one of Corpus Christi’s most iconic attractions, the Texas State Aquarium plays a vital role in conservation, education, and community engagement — all while operating as a nonprofit supported by visitors, memberships, and local partnerships.Melanie shares insights on:• How the Aquarium connects businesses to a larger mission• Why community support is critical to nonprofit success• The impact of Chamber involvement and ambassador engagement• What makes the Aquarium a unique destination in Texas• Exciting new developments, including Ocean Odyssey and future manatee exhibitsFrom coastal conservation efforts to building meaningful relationships across the Coastal Bend, this episode highlights how mission-driven organizations can create lasting impact while strengthening the community.Welcome to In Focus — where we go beyond the logo to spotlight the people, purpose, and progress shaping our region.

March 16, 2026Episode 313 min

The Brief: Water Curtailment, Economic Development & Coastal Bend Advocacy w/ Sarah Tindall

In this episode of The Brief, we sit down with Sarah Tindall — Chief Operating Officer of the Corpus Christi Economic Development Corporation — to talk about the issues currently shaping business and economic growth in the Coastal Bend. From the growing concerns around water curtailment to the role of economic development organizations in responding to potential crises, Sarah explains how local leaders are working to protect businesses and keep the regional economy moving forward. We also discuss how the EDC is partnering with local contractors, engineers, and builders to help businesses reduce water usage and prepare for potential restrictions — while keeping resources and spending within the local community. Beyond water infrastructure, the conversation explores regional advocacy in Washington, D.C., economic development collaboration across South Texas, and new industrial investment along the Gulf Coast, including the potential impact of a large refinery project announced at the Port of Brownsville. Topics include:• What water curtailment could mean for local businesses • How the EDC is preparing a response plan to support the business community • Partnering with local contractors to reduce water use and protect operations • The Coastal Bend advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. • Why regional collaboration matters for economic growth • The potential economic impact of new refinery investment on the Gulf CoastThe Brief is where policy meets business — from City Hall to the state Capitol to Washington, D.C. — with a focus on jobs, infrastructure, and opportunity in Corpus Christi.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on the policies shaping our regional economy.

March 13, 2026Episode 216 min

The Dish: Coastal Conversations at Perrin’s on the Water with Amy Granberry & Dan Suckley

Welcome back to The Dish, a United We Podcast original where great food meets the people and stories shaping Corpus Christi.In Episode 2, Amy Granberry sits down with Dan Suckley at Perrin’s on the Water on North Padre Island, where waterfront views and New Orleans–inspired cuisine set the stage for a conversation about business, community, and the future of the Coastal Bend.Over cornbread, gumbo, red beans and rice, blackened chicken with tasso, and a few island cocktails, the discussion explores:✨ The impact of American Bank’s merger with Prosperity Bank and what it means for customers across Texas ✨ The long-awaited reopening of Port Royal and the return of one of the island’s most iconic destinations ✨ How tourism, island events like Barefoot Mardi Gras, and local businesses fuel economic growth ✨ The importance of community investment through organizations like the United Corpus Christi ChamberOf course, no episode of The Dish is complete without dessert — featuring homemade chocolate fudge cake and carrot cake baked in-house.This episode captures what The Dish is all about: great food, honest conversations, and the leaders working every day to move our community forward.Whether you came for the Cajun flavors, the island views, or the conversation, you’re at the table with us.