In this inspiring episode of BAM BizTalk, host Angel Garcia sits down with Jorge Payen, Director of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving at UT Permian Basin, to explore how UTPB continues to shape lives long after graduation. Jorge shares his full-circle journey—from mariachi musician and student leader to driving alumni engagement and fundraising initiatives that empower the next generation of Falcons.

Discover how UTPB’s programs like Falcon Free, Falcon Giving Day, and community partnerships are transforming access to education, supporting student success, and preserving cultural heritage.

Whether you’re a UTPB alum, student, or community member, this conversation will reignite your pride in what it means to be a Falcon.

10 Topics Discussed

1. The creation of Falcon Flock and school spirit at UTPB.
2. How My Falcon Radio evolved into a creative media hub for students.
3. Remembering the influence of Professor Michael Crane and his legacy.
4. The meaning behind “Once a Falcon, Always a Falcon” alumni podcast.
5. How UTPB’s Falcon Free Program helps students graduate debt-free.
6. Building a strong alumni network and community engagement.
7. The role of philanthropy and giving back through time and resources.
8. Jorge’s personal story of resilience—from humble beginnings to MBA graduate.
9. The cultural importance of Mariachi music and keeping it alive through education.
10. UTPB’s ongoing growth, renovations, and evolving student experience.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join the Black Gold Energy Community every Monday, 6–8 PM CST at BAM Headquarters or virtually via Google Meet.

🔗 Learn more about TexitCoin (TXE):

https://www.bamventures.online/event-details-1/black-gold-energy-texit-coin-in-action-community-networks-and-innovative-paths-1-2025-10-13-18-00

Connect with BAM Ventures:

🌐 bamventures.online

🎧 Follow BAM BizTalk for more conversations on business, innovation, and community growth.

#BAMBizTalk #UTPB #FalconPride #MidlandTX #WestTexas #Entrepreneurship #Education #CommunityImpact #FalconFree #OnceAFalconAlwaysAFalcon

In Episode #75 of BAM BizTalk, Angel Garcia sits down with Ryan McGuire, an entrepreneur and community leader who shares his powerful journey of building resilience, leading with purpose, and creating impact in the Permian Basin.

Ryan talks about the lessons he’s learned in business, the importance of adaptability, and why serving others is at the core of lasting success.

This episode dives into both the challenges and victories of entrepreneurship, offering listeners inspiration and practical strategies for navigating their own path.

✅ Topics Discussed

• Ryan McGuire’s journey into entrepreneurship
• Lessons learned from setbacks and challenges
• The importance of resilience in business and leadership
• Building strong community connections
• Leadership principles that drive sustainable growth
• How to align passion with business purpose
• Navigating uncertainty as a business owner
• Why service and giving back matter in entrepreneurship
• The balance between personal growth and business success
• Ryan’s advice for the next generation of entrepreneurs #BAMBizTalk #RyanMcGuire #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessPodcast #resilience #CommunityImpact #PermianBasin #businessgrowthmindset #inspiration #permianbasin #odessatx

In this inspiring episode of BAM BizTalk, we sit down with Gabi Borjas, co-founder of Tidy Up Professional Cleaning Services, to unpack her journey from solving a family need to building one of Midland’s top-rated cleaning companies. Gabi shares how balancing vision with structure, leading by example, and creating a values-driven culture helped her grow from one employee to nearly 20 in just three years.

This conversation dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, the importance of communication, and how to keep both clients and employees at the heart of business growth.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this episode offers actionable insights on scaling, leadership, and staying true to your vision.

Topics Discussed

1. How Tidy Up Cleaning began as a solution for family and grew into a thriving business.
2. The balance of vision (dreamer) and structure (numbers).
3. Lessons from engineering and applying critical thinking to business.
4. Word-of-mouth, social media, and building trust in the community.
5. Creating company culture that values dignity and professionalism.
6. Hiring challenges and the importance of cultural fit.
7. Leading by example and doing the work yourself.
8. Handling toxic employees and protecting company culture.
9. Communication strategies: round tables, feedback, and “critical conversations.”
10. Setting boundaries as an entrepreneur while running a business with your spouse.

#BAMBizTalk #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #CompanyCulture #ScalingBusiness #SmallBusiness #WomenInBusiness #MidlandTX #Podcast

In this episode of BAM BizTalk, we sit down with Mario “Superstar” Salazar, Isaac Lopez of Grim Entertainment, and friends for a raw and entertaining conversation. From starting small businesses in Midland and Odessa to navigating the comedy scene in Texas and beyond, they share the wins, losses, and wild stories along the way.

We dive into:

• Why embracing AI is no longer optional for businesses
• The journey from running a wireless store to hosting comedy and rap shows Lessons in promotion, from flyers to billboards
• The challenges and resilience of small business owners
• Music inspirations, favorite songs, and stories from the road
• Crazy comedy nights and what it really takes to get on stage

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, or someone who just loves a good laugh, this episode brings you insight, hustle, and plenty of hilarious moments.

#BAMBizTalk #Entrepreneurship #ComedyLife #SmallBusiness #TexasBusiness #AIinBusiness #GrimEntertainment #MarioSalazar #MidlandTexas #BAMVentures

In this powerful episode of BAM BizTalk, Angel Garcia sits down with Dan Nicholas—founder of Alpha Omega Leadership Company and speaker at the FOCUS Conference—to discuss the journey of rediscovering purpose, overcoming setbacks, and scaling both business and life.

Dan shares his personal story of leadership, transformation, and how past struggles can become the fuel for future impact. From building resilience to leading with faith and focus, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone seeking clarity in their mission.

Whether you’re navigating challenges in business or searching for your next level of growth, Dan’s perspective offers both practical tools and inspiration to help you get there.

10 Topics Discussed

• Dan’s journey from personal setbacks to building Alpha Omega Leadership Company
• The importance of redefining purpose at different stages of life
• How faith and resilience shape true leadership
• Lessons from coaching and mentoring leaders in the Permian Basin
• The role of focus in scaling both business and personal growth
• Transforming past struggles into a platform for impact
• Why clarity is the cornerstone of sustainable success
• Balancing business, service, and personal mission
• Preparing for the FOCUS Conference and what attendees can expect
• Dan’s advice for anyone feeling stuck or uncertain in their journey

In this heartfelt episode of BAM BizTalk, Angel Garcia sits down with Jay Whitlow—author of The Echo Between Hope and Healing—to share his personal journey of faith, resilience, and purpose. Jay opens up about the challenges of navigating seasons of waiting, the emotional weight of not having children, and how these experiences shaped his perspective on leadership, community, and hope.

This conversation goes beyond personal struggle—it’s about finding strength when life doesn’t go as planned, embracing vulnerability, and learning how perseverance and faith can guide both entrepreneurs and individuals through uncertainty.

Whether you’re facing obstacles in life or business, Jay’s story offers timeless lessons on hope, healing, and the courage to keep moving forward.

Topics Discussed

1. The inspiration behind The Echo Between Hope and Healing
2. Jay’s personal journey of faith and resilience
3. Navigating seasons of waiting and uncertainty
4. Lessons from living without children and redefining purpose
5. The power of vulnerability in leadership
6. Finding community and support during difficult times
7. How faith and perseverance apply to entrepreneurship
8. The importance of reframing setbacks into opportunities
9. Building hope-driven strategies in life and business
10. Jay’s message for anyone struggling with challenges today#BAMBizTalk #JayWhitlow #EchoBetweenHopeAndHealing #FaithAndResilience #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #HopeAndHealing #LifeLessons #Inspiration

In this episode of BAM BizTalk, we sit down with Tracy McCurry to explore the powerful intersection of mental health, resilience, and entrepreneurship. Tracy shares her personal journey, the lessons learned from overcoming challenges, and how embracing mental wellness can transform not only individuals but also entire businesses.

From breaking down stigmas to building authentic leadership, this conversation reminds us that true success isn’t just about growth and profit—it’s about balance, purpose, and community impact.

10 Topics Discussed

1. Tracy McCurry’s personal journey and entrepreneurial beginnings
2. The importance of mental health awareness in business
3. Overcoming personal and professional challenges
4. Shifting perspectives on success and resilience
5. Breaking the stigma around mental health conversations
6. How business leaders can foster healthier workplaces
7. The role of community support in personal growth
8. Building authenticity and balance as an entrepreneur
9. Transforming challenges into opportunities for impact
10. Practical steps to prioritize mental health while running a business

#BAMBizTalk #TracyMcCurry #MentalHealthAwareness #BusinessResilience #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #CommunityImpact #WorkplaceWellness #BusinessGrowth #Inspiration

In this episode of Founders Focus, hosts Angel Garcia and Gina Lewis sit down with Jose Ortega — entrepreneur, community leader, and advocate for sustainable business growth. From his early entrepreneurial mindset to leading initiatives that impact both local and international communities, Jose shares the principles, challenges, and strategies that have shaped his career.

Discover how adaptability, relationships, and a clear vision can help founders overcome obstacles, scale with purpose, and create lasting change.

Topics Covered:

• 00:00 – Introduction
• 02:10 – Jose’s early influences & entrepreneurial mindset
• 07:45 – Building a business that serves both profit and purpose
• 12:30 – Lessons in leadership and resilience
• 18:15 – The role of relationships in business growth
• 24:00 – Creating community impact through entrepreneurship
• 30:50 – Overcoming challenges in shifting markets
• 37:40 – Why adaptability is key for founders
• 42:20 – Advice for entrepreneurs navigating uncertainty
• 48:10 – The vision for future growth and community building

🎧 Listen now: ⁠bamventures.online/bam-biz-talk-podcast⁠

#podcast #midlandtx #odessatx #businesspodcast #businessgrowth