Recapping The Lead Live, March 10-14, 2025

The Lead Live covered diverse topics focused on the local community of Kerrville, Texas, and surrounding areas during the week of March 10, 2025. Key themes included local government and infrastructure, community events and activities, local businesses and the economy, and health and wellness resources.

Monday, March 10, 2025: Mike Wittler, the General Manager and CEO of KPUB, discussed a proposed new power plant. Topics included drivers for increased power demand such as AI data centers and Bitcoin mining in Texas, the technology behind the plant (reciprocating internal combustion engines), the potential location, financing and contracts with specific mention of Amy Doer’s significant role, and the project timeline. Other subjects included the impact of daylight saving time, changing power dynamics in Texas and Governor Abbott’s “all of the above” energy strategy, initial discussions about AI in power plant operations, local news regarding Charlotte Ritter’s memorials and the KUB power plant resolution going to the city council, economic concerns about a potential recession, and updates on Schreiner University sports.

Tuesday, March 11, 2025: The episode featured local updates and interviews with recurring guests Doug Hetzler, Julie Davis, and Janelle Peralt. Wende Jones discussed non-toxic cleaning products from local company Branch Basics. A follow-up discussion on the previous day’s power plant conversation with Mike Wittler included the humorous “Godzilla” question. Local news included information about a Schreiner University equestrian team fundraiser (polo match), potential federal layoffs at the local VA, and recognition of Kamden Ross, a Schreiner basketball player up for a national award. Julie Davis provided updates on local community events, including spring break schedules and various happenings around Kerrville. Doug Hetzler showcased and discussed the new line of boots being sold. Trista Pepper from Wright’s Funeral Home discussed an upcoming empowerment event at the Kroc Center. Janelle Peralt shared news about her livestock, including the addition of orex.

Wednesday, March 12, 2025: The episode continued with local updates and interviews. Libbie Horton discussed an upcoming wedding and event expo at Arcadia Live. Andrew Gay provided an economic update, noting some improvement in inflationary pressures. The episode mentioned JP Morgan’s prediction of a US recession and a brief discussion about a White House car show featuring Tesla vehicles. The Kerrville City Council’s approval of the KPUB power plant agreement was highlighted as a significant and historic event. Danielle Jenschke and Michael Bennett from Schreiner University discussed the details of the upcoming equestrian team fundraiser (polo match). Brenda Thompson and Paige Sumner from the Dietert Center discussed memory care resources available.

Thursday, March 13, 2025: Leslie Jones and other guests appeared on the episode. The upcoming Hill Country Charity Ball, benefiting Disabled Outdoorsman USA (DUCA), served as a central topic, with details about ticket sales, the beneficiary’s mission, the African safari theme, and sponsorship opportunities. The hosts engaged in lighthearted banter about their connections to the panhandle and Happy State Bank. Jennifer Kramer sent a text message reminding everyone about the Parkinson’s Palooza event. Devin Sebek and Grace Castillo from Peterson Health (occupational and speech therapists) discussed their respective roles, the range of therapy services offered at Peterson, and the unique mock HEB store used for patient rehabilitation. Leslie Jones provided a comprehensive rundown of various local events happening throughout the week and into the weekend.

Friday, March 14, 2025: Julie Davis and John Sawyer appeared as guests. The episode included a lighthearted discussion about unusual ingredients in food and their natural origins. The hosts discussed the concept of NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) in the context of local zoning issues. They briefly touched upon the topic of tipping etiquette. John Sawyer introduced his new real estate brokerage, Legacy Partners, and discussed their approach to real estate, community involvement, and upcoming educational events focused on land rights and first-time home buying. The hosts humorously considered a commercial property listing on Junction Highway as a potential location for “The Lead” studio. Local events included Schreiner University baseball and softball games and the final weekend of the Shermale and Lou exhibit at the Museum of Western Arts. The episode concluded with casual banter involving various individuals present in the studio.