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 businesses

The 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.

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 players

From 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.

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 out

Whether 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.

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 system

The 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.

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 Bend

Whether 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.

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 exhibits

From 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.

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 Coast

The 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.

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 Chamber

Of 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.