When I reflect on my career, I realize that the work I’ve done in real estate, hospitality, and entertainment has always been about more than just building businesses. For me, it’s been about creating something lasting—something that goes beyond profits, something that positively impacts the people and communities around me. Building a legacy isn’t about what you accomplish alone; it’s about how the work you do today continues to influence lives tomorrow.
Being a fourth-generation Texan, I grew up understanding the importance of family, community, and stewardship. That perspective has guided me through more than forty years in real estate, and now through the various businesses I lead under Big Easy Entertainment. A legacy isn’t something you plan for once; it’s something you build every day, through decisions, actions, and values.
The Foundation: Values That Endure
At the core of any lasting legacy are values. Integrity, commitment, and a focus on people have always been the guiding principles in my work. Whether I’m developing a new property, opening a restaurant, or producing a live music event, I ask myself: Does this align with my values? Does it contribute positively to the community?
Values serve as a compass when challenges arise. Real estate taught me patience, vision, and resilience. Hospitality taught me the importance of service, attention to detail, and creating meaningful experiences. Entertainment has shown me the power of creativity and culture. By consistently applying these values across all industries, I’ve been able to create businesses that aren’t just successful today but have the potential to endure for years to come.
Investing in People
A legacy isn’t built on buildings or balance sheets alone—it’s built on people. Employees, customers, partners, and the broader community are the heart of every enterprise. I’ve always believed that investing in people pays the greatest dividends.
When I look at my businesses, I focus on creating environments where employees feel supported and empowered. Training, mentorship, and opportunities for growth aren’t just perks—they’re investments in the future. When people thrive, they carry that energy into the communities we serve, and that impact multiplies in ways that can’t always be measured.
Businesses That Give Back
Part of building a legacy is using your resources and influence to make a difference. Over the years, I’ve made it a priority to ensure that the businesses I lead contribute positively to the communities around them. Whether it’s through charitable partnerships, community events, or local initiatives, giving back is a central part of what we do.
I’ve seen firsthand how even small contributions can have meaningful impact. Sponsoring local programs, supporting nonprofit organizations, or helping fund community projects creates opportunities that go far beyond the walls of our businesses. It strengthens neighborhoods, fosters goodwill, and creates a sense of shared purpose. Legacy isn’t just about what you create—it’s about what you help others create, too.
Creating Spaces That Matter
In both real estate and hospitality, one of the ways I’ve aimed to build a lasting legacy is through the creation of spaces that bring people together. A well-designed property or venue isn’t just functional—it has the power to foster community, culture, and connection.
Whether it’s a residential development where families can thrive, a restaurant where friends gather, or a live music venue where memories are made, each space carries a story. These are the places that become part of people’s lives, the locations where celebrations, milestones, and everyday moments happen. By focusing on experiences as much as on profits, I hope to create spaces that leave a lasting imprint on those who visit them.
The Long View: Thinking Generationally
One lesson I’ve learned over decades of work is that building a legacy requires a long-term perspective. Quick wins and immediate gains are important, but they don’t define lasting impact. A legacy-minded approach considers how decisions today will affect not just the business, but employees, communities, and even future generations.
This mindset has guided my approach to Big Easy Entertainment and other ventures. Each project is evaluated not just for its immediate return, but for its sustainability, cultural relevance, and ability to contribute positively to the community. Thinking generationally ensures that the work we do now will continue to benefit others long after we’re directly involved.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Reflecting on my journey, a few key lessons stand out. First, legacy is built incrementally—through everyday actions, decisions, and relationships. Second, people matter more than things; investing in employees, partners, and communities has a far greater long-term impact than any single project. Third, giving back amplifies success. When businesses engage with and uplift the communities they serve, the effects resonate far beyond the bottom line.
Ultimately, legacy isn’t something you achieve in a single moment—it’s the accumulation of consistent effort, thoughtful decisions, and meaningful contributions over time.
As I continue to lead my companies and explore new opportunities, my focus remains the same: to create businesses that stand the test of time and make a positive difference in the communities around them. Building a legacy is about more than personal achievement—it’s about leaving a footprint that others can follow, benefit from, and expand upon.
For anyone aspiring to build a lasting legacy, my advice is simple: lead with your values, invest in people, give back to your community, and always think about the long-term impact of your decisions. When you focus on these principles, the legacy you leave behind will be far more meaningful than any balance sheet or building ever could be.