In this exceptional episode of Beyond the Bite, host Eddie Aldrete pulls back the curtain on one of San Antonio’s most high-profile private-sector transitions. He is joined by two formidable local icons: Janet Holliday, the founder and outgoing CEO of The CE Group, and Lori Houston, former San Antonio Assistant City Manager and the agency’s new owner. This conversation serves as a masterclass in business succession, strategic career transitions, and trust-based mentorship. Janet and Lori detail how a professional relationship forged in 2007 during major city projects evolved into a deep personal bond, ultimately paving the way for a major private-sector business acquisition. They explore the vulnerability required to step away from a demanding, 24/7 public service executive role, proving that a leader’s identity can successfully expand beyond institutional boundaries.

The dialogue shifts to a macro analysis of San Antonio’s rapidly shifting urban and cultural landscape. Drawing on Lori’s 23 years of public service execution and Janet’s 36-year legacy of event marketing excellence, the duo discusses the high-stakes navigation behind the city’s landmark transformations—including the expansion of the Museum Reach river project, the Convention Center overhaul, Project Marvel, and the enduring economic footprint of the San Antonio Spurs.

Lori shares the tactical financial mechanics behind her acquisition, detailing how transparent communication with strategic partners unlocked the capital needed to preserve the agency’s legacy. Concluding with a raw, inspiring look at Lori’s 16-year sobriety journey and her new civic role heading the Greater Chamber’s homeless task force, this episode demonstrates how elite corporate leaders can leverage private-sector resource networks to address complex systemic social challenges.