The Lead Live Podcast: Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025 episode

The Sept. 16 episode of The Lead Live featured discussions on AI scams, the local housing market, and flood recovery efforts.

Kyla Gesell of SouthStar Bank warned about rising AI scams, including AI imagery with hazardous links, fake online listings, and voice cloning used to trick victims. She advised individuals to “think twice and double-check.” Tom Fox elaborated on sophisticated financial crimes, noting corporate executives have lost “multiple thousands of dollars” through deepfaked voicemails and videos. He cited North Korea, Russia, India, and Africa as common origins for scams.

Janelle Peralt of JP Properties presented August Kerr County housing market data, indicating a rebound in the median closed sales price to $360,000 and steady price per foot at $200. Inventory declined, suggesting increased sales, and interest rates are at their lowest in 2025. Local lenders anticipate a 0.25 percent rate cut from the Federal Reserve.

Discussions on flood recovery highlighted the delay in River Trail restoration due to the search for two missing people. More damage was discovered, including the destruction of the Camp Meeting Creek Bridge. The community has sustained hundreds of millions in damage from 2025 hail storms and floods, contributing to rising homeowner insurance premiums. A Town Hall meeting on flood risk, safe building practices, and FEMA requirements is scheduled for Sept. 30, from 3:30 to 6 p.m., at the Guadalupe Basin Natural Resources Center.

In education news, Starkey Elementary School received an “F” on its state accountability scores. Principal Colleen Dale is focusing on strengthening school culture and improving student achievement. Fox is also starting the AI Club of Kerrville, with the first meeting on Thursday, Sept. 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Blue Roan Coffee. Other notes included Kyla Gesell’s 30th birthday, the death of actor Robert Redford at 89, a memorial for flood victim Jane Ragsdale, football results, and SouthStar Bank’s upcoming 105th anniversary.