This episode of the Green Report takes you inside the fast-paced world of the Texas Legislature with TNLA’s Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, Curtis Smith. From a record-setting water infrastructure win to stopping dangerous licensing and pesticide bills, Curtis breaks down how TNLA successfully defended the green industry at the Capitol. Plus, hear how TNLA members made a direct impact through advocacy and grassroots outreach—and what’s next for protecting your business. For mor...
Jun 25, 2025•49 min•Ep. 34
In this episode of the Green Report Podcast , we head out on the 2025 Texas Plant Trial Road Trip with Paul Winski, Program Specialist for the Green Industry at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Recorded live from the Houston-area stop at Brookshire’s 1502 Farm to Market 1489, Paul walks us through how more than 60 plant varieties are performing in real-world Texas heat and humidity. He also shares timely updates on collaborative research with TNLA members—including work on boxwood, biochar, and...
Jun 17, 2025•27 min•Ep. 33
Get the inside scoop on this year’s highly anticipated Plant Trial Roadtrip with Dr. Andrew King, Assistant Professor at Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center in Overton. In this Green Report Podcast episode, Dr. King previews what growers, retailers, and landscapers can expect when the tour kicks off June 26 in Overton. Discover which plants are standing out in both container and landscape trials, and learn about key insights shaping the season's top performers. Listen in and p...
Jun 17, 2025•24 min•Ep. 32
In this episode, we sit down with Savanna Taylor Thornton, Business Development lead at Lone Star Trees, to get an insider’s look at how the 2025 spring season is shaping up for one of Central Texas’ premier wholesale tree growers. Savanna shares what’s flying off the field this year, the growing demand from landscape and nursery professionals, and what trends are taking root when it comes to tree types and sizes. We also dive into how recent worldwide issues that are impacting production, the o...
Apr 09, 2025•18 min•Ep. 31
In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Dr. Andrew King, ornamental specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Research and assistant professor in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at Texas A&M University. Dr. King gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the Texas Superstar® Trials, explaining how this influential program evaluates and elevates standout plants that thrive in Texas conditions—impacting growers, landscapers, and gardeners statewide. We dive into the key traits researchers ...
Mar 31, 2025•25 min•Ep. 30
Join moderator Curtis Smith (TNLA) and expert panelists Devin Guinn (AquaGreen Global, LLC), Anique Watson (Action Visa Assistance) and Antonio Vergara (Mundo Verde Irrigation and Landscaping) for an insightful live podcast. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of H-2A and H-2B work programs in the Texas green industry, sharing practical advice for navigating complex regulations, securing reliable labor, and fostering workforce sustainability. Sponsored by Forward.us, this session is a ...
Jan 09, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 29
Join us as we “Prepare for All Things” with Brett Hoogeveen, who takes us behind the scenes to share his expert insights on strategic decision-making. Brett, the co-founder of Better Culture and Mindset, has a proven track record of helping teams achieve business growth and success. In this episode, you’ll discover how to engage your team in premortem conversations, shifting the focus from the to-do list to driving meaningful outcomes.
Dec 17, 2024•18 min•Ep. 28
Join Paul Winski from Texas AgriLife Extension as he talks with Bill Barr, a seasoned expert in the nursery industry. In this episode, Bill reflects on his extensive career, which includes experience at several nurseries as well as his current role as a consultant specializing in propagation and new product development. Together, they explore the evolution of the nursery industry, highlighting the significant impact of technology on propagation techniques. Bill discusses his thoughts on automati...
Oct 30, 2024•48 min•Ep. 27
In this podcast episode, dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) as the Green Report engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mark Manny from Evergro Organic Recycling, Weston Nieman of Native American Seed and Ryan Laird from San Jacinto Environmental Suppliers. The group discusses their current utilization of AI in various business operations and contemplates its potential impact on the industry's future. They also talk about how AI can optimize day-to-day activities, ...
May 13, 2024•31 min•Ep. 26
Paul Winski with Texas AgriLife Extension talks with Adrian Muehlstein, TMCNP at Southwest Wholesale Nursery, where Adrian discusses strategies for preparing their staff for Spring by ensuring they are well-versed in plant characteristics, equipment training, and safety. Adrian also addresses supply chain challenges in delivering quality products to their customers. As a former Chairman of the TNLA State Board of Directors, Adrian emphasizes his dedication to developing youth initiatives within ...
May 09, 2024•55 min•Ep. 25
Join us on our latest podcast episode as we dive into the world of sales with Jack Jostes, President & CEO of Ramblin Jackson. Ramblin Jackson is a full-service agency specializing in sales and marketing strategy, visual identity, website design, development, and search engine optimization. Their mission is to help small businesses succeed. In this insightful conversation, Jack shares invaluable insights on how to qualify budget in sales conversations. Listen in as Jack shares his top tips t...
Apr 01, 2024•33 min•Ep. 24
TNLA delves into the fraudulent activities plaguing Landscape Supply Companies, causing significant financial losses. Luis Chamorro, representing Heirloom Soils, shares insights on combating this issue, detailing how he collaborated with Facebook to dismantle over 2500 suspicious profiles. He extends an invitation for further discussion and assistance through direct messages on any of Heirloom Soils' social media platforms. TNLA has joined forces with Luis to develop an informative flyer for dis...
Mar 15, 2024•45 min•Ep. 23
In this episode, Paul Winski with Texas AgriLife dives into the world of wholesale nursery business with Brad Abrameit, President of Magnolia Gardens Nursery. With 165 acres of production specializing in shrubs, perennials, and trees, with both a wholesale division and tissue culture lab Magnolia Gardens Nursery stands as a key player in the Texas market, with 95% of its business staying within the state. The nursery operates as a midsize company with a unique focus on tissue culture, selling yo...
Mar 07, 2024•40 min•Ep. 22
In this Green Report Podcast episode, Texas AgriLife's Paul Winske interviews Mark Rainey with Rancho Encino, out of Bay City, TX. Mark delves into his extensive career as a large tree grower in the nursery sector. The conversation covers valuable insights, such as collaborating with Landscape Architects, maintaining quality standards for a growing operation, and navigating labor initiatives. Mark also provides advice for emerging professionals seeking a career in the Green Industry.
Jan 26, 2024•23 min•Ep. 21
We are thrilled to feature Courtney Ramsey, the dynamic force behind Courtney Ramsey Speaks. As a professional speaker and expert in navigating complex labor issues for business leaders, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge. Courtney shares insights on strategically enhancing employee satisfaction, implementing effective retention methods, and fostering influential team communication in this exclusive episode. We are also excited to announce that Courtney will be a distinguished speaker at the ...
Dec 20, 2023•49 min•Ep. 20
Join us on "Green Industry Insights," where host Paul Winski from Texas AgriLife engages in a captivating conversation with James and Allison Berry, founders of Environmental Landscape Solutions. Discover the challenges and triumphs in West Texas' dynamic landscape industry. In this podcast, the Berrys unveil their commitment to sustainability and strategies for tackling the labor challenge. They also share invaluable tips on staying current and knowledgeable in an ever-evolving industry and how...
Oct 27, 2023•39 min•Ep. 19
In this episode, Representative Dwayne Burns details starting his career with the Grain and Feed Association before being hired as a legislative analyst for State Representatives Arlene Wohlgemuth and Gary Walker during the 74th legislative session. Representative Burns speaks of his time at the Texas Department of Agriculture under then-Commissioner Rick Perry, serving as a coordinator for TDA’s Intergovernmental Affairs Division and as an inspector for the Texas Department of Agriculture, wher...
Oct 12, 2023•23 min•Ep. 18
Explore the inspiring journey of John Leifester, TCLP, as he delves into his unwavering commitment to the Green Industry on TNLA's Green Report podcast. With a compelling narrative, John shares his transformative experience from entering the industry to becoming the owner of Dedicated Landscape Solutions, a prestigious family-owned construction and high-end residential landscape firm in San Antonio, Texas, since 2014. In this engaging episode, John unveils the invaluable lessons he's gleaned on ...
Sep 29, 2023•38 min•Season 3Ep. 1
Featured in our latest episode of the Green Report Board Member Spotlight series, Rachelle Kemp owner of R&R Landscaping in Waco and incoming board chairwoman of TNLA. Rachelle discusses how she got into the green industry, issues that TNLA will help tackle, and important priorities for her time on the board.
Jun 29, 2023•33 min•Ep. 17
Enjoy the launch of this new mini-series spotlighting key TNLA Board Members, this episode focusing on TNLA State Board Chairman Kevin Grossberndt. We discuss his background, getting involved in TNLA Leadership, challenges facing the industry, ERP program, Growers Summit, and more. Thank you to our sponsor Texas Mutual!
Sep 21, 2022•31 min•Ep. 16
Listen to this episode to get an update from D.C. on the H-2B amendment that passed the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and where that leaves us for FY 23. We also discuss the status of the City of Dallas considering a potential ban on gas-powered landscape equipment. Lastly a brief update on Austin's Landscape & Irrigation ordinance as who's coming to TNLA EXPO.
Jul 20, 2022•20 min•Ep. 15
Listen in to this episode where we speak with Kody Bessent, CEO of the Plains Cotton Growers, Inc. as we dive into the details of the Phase One announcement of the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) - the first installment of federal disaster money following Winter Storm Uri in 2021. In addition we review the Texas Ag Council, an organization that TNLA and PCG are deeply involved in regarding state-level policy. Lastly we review a plant pest and disease bill both our organizations came together to p...
Jun 01, 2022•37 min•Ep. 14
This episode we talk with Lori Whitten with Action Visa and Gray Delaney with SEA regarding reform initiatives in the H2 programs. Topics include a program overview, strategies on H-2B cap relief, and the legislative landscape we are working in. Listen in for a conversation on how we improve the H2 programs for the green industry.
Mar 09, 2022•35 min•Ep. 13
This episode of the Green Report focuses on the current legal environment surrounding the COVID vaccine mandate. Listen in as Laura Fowler with the Fowler Law Firm discusses compliance and the future of these mandates. The Texas Workforce Commission letter described in the episode can be found here: https://www.twc.texas.gov/files/businesses/commissioner-letter-covid19-vac-mandate-120821-twc.pdf...
Dec 22, 2021•37 min•Ep. 12
TNLA takes a deep dive with Mike Meroney, an independent lobbyist fighting for better workforce solutions and developing curriculum for high school students. Mike is a strong advocate when it comes to developing a strong workforce for the future. During this episode, he provides insight on some of the bills he has worked on when industries have hit the panic button on their employment struggle. Mike also walks us through his current work on driving policymakers to pass legislation to help add hi...
Mar 26, 2021•39 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Dr. Marco Palma & Dr. Charlie Hall What is the economic contribution of the Texas nursery and landscape industry? Listen in as Dr. Marco Palma and Dr. Charlie Hall dive into the details of the most recent report from Texas A&M University on the impact of our industry on the State of Texas. With the 2020 report detailing over $22 billion dollars in total sales, there is a lot of value to discuss for business owners and policymakers. New! Watch the podcast on YouTube Here !...
Dec 04, 2020•50 min•Season 2Ep. 11
Episode 10 features Zaira Garcia, Texas State Director of FWD.us, a national organization with state-level chapters focused on fixing the broken U.S. immigration system. Amongst the priorities for FWD.us is improving the H-2B and H-2A programs, something the green industry has been working on for years. In this episode, we go into the work of FWD.us and their partnership with TNLA along with other Texas business groups to improve these vital programs. Thank you to our sponsor of this episode for...
Oct 15, 2020•28 min•Ep. 10
In this episode, our guest is John Farner who serves as the Industry Development Director for the national Irrigation Association. John jumps into topics related to COVID relief, federal developments on water, and a brief overview of the election landscape heading into November 2020. John gives our audience a perspective of someone who is working on water-related issues in Congress and someone who monitors the development of irrigation policy across the United States. Thank you to our sponsor of...
Sep 23, 2020•42 min•Ep. 9
In this episode of the TNLA Green Report we interview Tiffany Lashmet, author of the Texas Agriculture Law Blog. Tiffany is an associate professor and extension specialist for the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. In our interview we covered the Water of the United States update, liability on pesticide drift, landowner liability, and property rights. Be sure to listen to the episode and check out Tiffany's blog at https://agrilife.org/texasaglaw/about /....
Jun 16, 2020•34 min•Ep. 8
The Green Report speaks with Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller, head of a massive state agency that impacts the green industry daily. In this episode we review some of the critical functions of the agency and discuss some ongoing efforts TNLA and TDA are working in partnership. Commissioner Miller gives an update on the trade missions and disease control efforts in our state.
Jan 03, 2020•23 min•Ep. 7
