161. Former Assistant City Manager Lori Houston Reflects on 23 Years at City Hall and Her Next Steps

This week on bigcitysmalltown, we examine the career and leadership journey of Lori Houston, former Assistant City Manager for San Antonio and now CEO of CE Group—a prominent event, public relations, and marketing organization with deep roots in the city.Bob Rivard sits down with Lori Houston to discuss her transition from public service to private enterprise, the challenges and insights gained from overseeing some of San Antonio’s most consequential downtown projects, and her vision for CE Group’s future as the company enters a new chapter.They explore:• The evolution of San Antonio’s urban core under Lori's tenure, including major redevelopment initiatives and public-private partnerships• The shifting priorities at City Hall and what these changes mean for downtown development and city infrastructure• The impact of technology and economic shifts on the events and PR industry, and how CE Group is adapting to ongoing disruption• Lori’s approach to mentorship, workforce development, and her personal story of sobriety as shared with the city’s homeless services networkTune in for a conversation about civic leadership, economic reality, and the future of downtown San Antonio.RECOMMENDED NEXT LISTEN:▶️ #151. 8.3 Million New Neighbors by 2050—Henry Cisneros and Bob Rivard on the Austin-San Antonio Megaregion – Following up on San Antonio’s evolving leadership and urban growth, this episode dives into the region’s explosive future. Host Bob Rivard sits down with Henry Cisneros to explore the challenges and opportunities as San Antonio and Austin transform into a powerful megaregion reshaping Central Texas.-- -- CONNECT📸 Connect on Instagram🔗 Join us on LinkedIn🎥 Subscribe on YouTubeSPONSORS🙌 Support the show & see our sponsorsTHANK YOU⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts⭐ Rate us on Spotify