As 2025 comes to a close, host Cameron Cushman is joined by producer Kendall Rogers for a special year-end recap episode of Fort Worth Innovates. Together, they reflect on how the podcast began, highlight the most impactful conversations from the past year, and share a sneak peek at what’s ahead for innovation, entrepreneurship, and research in Fort Worth in 2026.

From pediatric research at Cook Children’s to convergence technologies, startup success stories, and behind-the-scenes insights into how the podcast is made, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how Fort Worth’s innovation ecosystem is growing — and why these stories matter.

Learn more about the Fort Worth - Tarrant County Innovation Partnership here: https://fwtc-innovate.com/

In this episode of Fort Worth Innovates, host Cameron Cushman sits down with Brett Bowden — founder of Printed Threads, co-founder of MadeLab, musician-turned-entrepreneur, community-builder, and one of the most quietly influential innovators in Fort Worth’s creative economy.

Brett shares how a small screen-printing operation he once ran out of his garage evolved into a nationally recognized branding and merchandising company. He also opens up about the launch of MadeLab — a first-of-its-kind innovation laboratory where apparel brands from across the country send fabrics, dyes, inks, and processes to be tested, refined, and stress-tested. This Fort Worth-based lab doesn’t just evaluate materials; it’s helping write the standards for an entire industry.

From the challenges of entrepreneurship and late-night printing sessions to the joy of teaching thousands of people how to screen print, Brett reflects on the power of education, collaboration, and community. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from MadeLab, explains why Fort Worth is the perfect home for creative manufacturing, and highlights the startups and local leaders inspiring him today.

Listen now and join the conversation on social media at @FortWorthInnovates.

Learn more about Brett Bowden at Printed Threads here: https://www.printedthreads.com/

Learn more about the Fort Worth - Tarrant County Innovation Partnership here: https://fwtc-innovate.com/

Email Fort Worth Innovates at fwinnovates@gmail.com for any questions, comments, or if you know an innovator in Fort Worth!

Fort Worth Innovates is powered by the Fort Worth-Tarrant County Innovation Partnership.

Be sure to subscribe & tell a friend!

Air Force veteran and TCU alum Dylan Jones, founder and CEO of Lix Hydration for Dogs, shares how military research inspired a breakthrough in pet hydration. Dylan shares how working dogs’ struggles with drinking enough water during missions led to the creation of a powdered, coconut-water-based hydration mix designed to help pets drink more and stay healthier. He walks through his year-long customer discovery journey at Fort Worth farmers markets, the pivotal venture capital connection that reshaped the company, and the science behind Lix’s simple but powerful formula. Dylan also reflects on how his military experience shaped his resilience, offers candid advice for fellow founders, and reveals why leveraging equity is one of a startup’s strongest tools. Whether you’re a pet parent or an entrepreneur, this episode highlights innovation, grit, and the power of building in Fort Worth. Listen now and join the conversation on social media at @FortWorthInnovates. Learn more about Lyx Hydration: https://www.lyxhydration.com/ Learn more about the Fort Worth - Tarrant County Innovation Partnership here: https://fwtc-innovate.com/ Email Fort Worth Innovates at fwinnovates@gmail.com for any questions, comments, or if you know an innovator in Fort Worth! Fort Worth Innovates is powered by the Fort Worth-Tarrant County Innovation Partnership. Be sure to subscribe & tell a friend!