The Lead Live Podcast: Friday, March 28, 2025

Inflation data, songwriter competitions and community updates dominated Friday’s episode of “The Lead Live,” hosted by Louis Amestoy and Leslie Jones.

Financial analyst Andrew Gay of Texas Hill Country Advisors presented the latest inflation figures, noting February’s Personal Consumption Expenditures reached 4% monthly and 2.5% year-over-year, still above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target.

“Traders continue betting on three rate cuts by year’s end despite these numbers,” Gay said, describing recent market volatility as the “return of the bears.”

Unlike the 2022 market correction, Gay highlighted that today’s weakening stock market is accompanied by strengthening bonds, creating a typical “risk-off” reaction that benefits long-term investors focused on wealth protection.

The show pivoted to arts coverage when Jacobi Caldwell from Schreiner University’s songkeeper program announced an upcoming songwriter contest at Trail Head on Sunday. The event, starting at 2 p.m., serves as a qualifier for the Marble Falls Jamfest.

“There’s no fee to enter,” Caldwell said. “Just show up around 1 p.m. with original music.”

The Marble Falls winner will receive substantial prizes, including a guitar, $1,000, a fully produced song with professional promotion, and an opportunity to open for Sleep at the Wheel on May 3.

Community updates included the April 4 cornerstone ceremony for Kerrville’s new public safety building and Cecil Atkission Motors’ recovery efforts following recent hail damage.

The hosts acknowledged the Guadalupe Blanco River Trust’s rebranding to Guadalupe River Conservancy and its ongoing land conservation efforts.

Sports coverage included updates on Schreiner University’s baseball and softball teams, plus their football program joining a new conference.

The episode also addressed controversy surrounding Precinct 2 Commissioner Rich Paces and alleged violations of the Texas Open Meetings Act, with calls for his resignation.

Before concluding, Amestoy and Jones promoted weekend events including plays, live music, farmers markets, and museum exhibits throughout the Kerrville area.

“The Lead Live” airs weekdays and is sponsored by Peterson Health, Gibson’s Discount Center, Kentoppel Ford, and other local businesses.