Welcome to the latest issue of MyAustin Magazine! We are thrilled to have you here as we celebrate another edition filled with the best that Austin has to offer.
It’s incredible to look back and see how much this city has grown over the years—and how much MyAustin Magazine has grown right alongside it. When we first started, Austin was already a city bursting with creativity, innovation, and a spirit all its own. But today, it’s on an entirely new level. From the booming business landscape to an ever-expanding arts and entertainment scene, Austin continues to evolve, drawing in new talent, fresh ideas, and visionary entrepreneurs. Through it all, our magazine has remained dedicated to telling the stories of the people and businesses that make this city so special. With each issue, I am reminded of just how vibrant, diverse, and inspiring our community truly is, and I couldn’t be prouder to see this one hit the press.
In this issue, we’re shining a well-deserved spotlight on some truly inspiring businesses. We are excited to introduce the powerhouse women of True Productions, who embody passion, creativity, and success in their industry. We also take you inside Trippiez Smoke Shop and Ahmad Alnajjar, whose entrepreneurial spirit adds to Austin’s unique local business scene. And, of course, no issue would be complete without a curated selection of local stories, insightful small business articles, and— because we know you love a great meal—our roundup of the best steakhouses in Austin.
As always, MyAustin Magazine is about YOU—our readers, our community, our city. If you know someone making a difference and think they deserve a feature in an upcoming issue, we want to hear from you! Send us your nominations at info@ myaustinmagazine.com or visit www.myaustinmagazine.com to cast your vote. And don’t forget—our Top Women in Austin feature is coming soon, and we need your input to highlight the remarkable women shaping our city.
Thank you for being part of the MyAustin family. We’re dedicated to bringing you the Best of Austin in every issue, and we can’t wait for you to dive in!
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
STEVEN CAMPBELL
LESLIE LAGUARDIA
TINA ZAVALZA STAFF
LAURA DAMIAN
SARAH MONIGER
PAIGE FERNANDES
ANNALICIA SHELTON
CECILIA CHASE
LEILANY ALEMAN
MyAustin Magazine does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, political views or military status. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all our clients, staff, volunteers, subcontractors and vendors. The views expressed or held by those featured in MyAustin Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of MyAustin Magazine, it’s publishers or its employees.
MYAUSTINMAGAZINE.COM
In the event of any errors or omissions on any ads or articles in this issue, will be cured in a future issue at publisher’s discretion. Any materials submitted after publishing deadline are not guaranteed to make the current issue. For advertising inquiries, call 1-855-274-3375 or email: info@myaustinmagazine.com *All ads and content must be submitted by this date in order to be included in the next issue.
STEAKHOUSES top ten in Austin
BOA STEAKHOUSE
300 W. 6TH St. Austin, TX 78701
512-651-0700
CASA DO BRASIL
10515 N. Mopac Expy NB Austin, TX 78759
512-351-8086
DEAN’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE
110 E. 2ND St. Austin, TX 78701
512-608-4490
EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD
301 E. 5TH St. Austin, TX 78701
512-472-1860
ENSTANCIA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE
10000 Research Blvd. Suite B Austin, TX 78759
512-345-5600
FRESH HEIM
13776 N. Highway 183 Suite 142 Austin, TX 78750
512-258-1833
J CARVERS
509 Rio Grande St., Austin, TX 78701
512-782-0650
J PRIME STEAKHOUSE
301 Brazos St. Suite 150 Austin, TX 78701
737-309-3301
THE CAPITAL GRILLE
117 W. 4TH St. Austin, TX 78701
512-322-2005
TRULUCK’S OCEAN’S FINEST SEAFOOD & CRAB
300 Colorado St. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78701
512-482-9000
COME BREAK BOURBON WITH US.
AWARD-WINNING, HAND-CRAFTED BOURBON WHISKEY.
Every bottle of Garrison Brothers is overflowing with the finest, gourmet-grade ingredients on the planet. The nectar inside is made from a sweet mash bill and heat-forged in the scorching sun, extracting all the flavor possible from our new American white oak barrels, yielding a darker, richer and fuller bourbon than any out there. We’d love to have you down to our distillery in Hye, Texas or simply share a drink with you next time we cross paths. Salud!
WHAT TO EXPECT: This unique celebration of TV features exclusive screenings, intimate Q&As with top talent, and panel discussions on industry trends. It also offers unforgettable reunions with fan-favorite shows, creating a memorable experience for TV lovers.
ILLFEST MUSIC AND STREET ART FESTIVAL
DATES: May 30 - June 1, 2025
LOCATION: Travis County Expo Center
WHAT TO EXPECT: Get ready for 3 days of electrifying performances from 40+ artists across 3 stages, with over 100 original murals, immersive art, and surprise sets. Enjoy interactive experiences, live art, world-class production, and delicious food and drinks for all tastes.
19TH FEST
DATES: June 15th 2025
LOCATION: Huston-Tillotson University
WHAT TO EXPECT: Celebrate Juneteenth with food from over 12 food trucks, live music, artisan vendors, and activities like the Friends & Family Olympics and wellness zones. Enjoy delicious bites, live performances, and a festive atmosphere for the whole family.
THE COMPETATIVE EDGE SPORTS EXPO
DATES: June 14th 2025
LOCATION: Palmer Event Center
WHAT TO EXPECT: A dynamic event featuring the latest in sports apparel, cutting-edge equipment, elite training techniques, and valuable networking opportunities. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or fitness enthusiast, you’ll find everything to elevate your game and immerse yourself in the world of sports.
AUSTIN ASIAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL
DATES: June 25th 2025 - June 29th 2025
LOCATION: AFS Cinema & Event Hall
WHAT TO EXPECT: Festival-goers will experience a celebration of Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander filmmakers, featuring powerful films and media arts. With screenings, pre- and post-event parties, attendees can explore the diverse stories and talents of AANHPI communities in cinema.
H-E-B AUSTIN SYMPHONY JULY 4TH C ONCERT & FIREWORKS
DATES: July 4th 2025
LOCATION: Vic Mathias Shores
WHAT TO EXPECT: Join the Austin Symphony Orchestra for a family-friendly, community-wide 4th of July celebration! Enjoy a patriotic concert followed by a dazzling fireworks display over Lady Bird Lake, all free and open to the public.
STARTING A BUSINESS IN AUSTIN, TX?
HERE ARE TEN ESSENTIAL STEPS TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS.
1CONDUCT MARKET RESEARCH
Research local market trends, target demographics, and competitors. Gather feedback from potential customers and industry experts to refine your business concept.
2 WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN
Include your business goals, target market, revenue model, marketing plan, and financial projections. Use your business plan to attract investors or secure loans if needed.
3CHOOSE A BUSINESS STRUCTURE
Consider options such as Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Limited Liability
Company (LLC), or Corporation. Each structure has different implications for liability, taxes, and paperwork.
4REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS NAME
Ensure it reflects your brand and isn’t already in use. Search the Texas Secretary of State’s database and register your business name if necessary.
5OBTAIN REQUIRED LICENSES AND PERMITS
Depending on your business type, you may need a general business license, health permit, or other local permits. Register with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts for state-level licenses and permits.
6 REGISTER FOR TAXES
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes. Register with the Texas Comptroller for state sales tax and other relevant taxes.
7OPEN A BUSINESS BANK ACCOUNT
Keep your business and personal finances separate for better management and legal protection. Find a bank that offers services suited to your business needs.
8SET UP ACCOUNTING AND RECORD-KEEPING
Decide whether to use software or hire an accountant. Keep accurate records of all financial transactions, expenses, and income.
9 DEVELOP A MARKETING STRATEGY
Design a logo, develop a website, and establish a social media presence. Use online and offline marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.
10UNDERSTAND EMPLOYMENT LAWS
If hiring, comply with federal and state employment laws, including worker’s compensation insurance and unemployment insurance. Understand requirements for benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
Starting a business in Austin involves careful planning, but the city’s dynamic business landscape provides ample opportunities for success. MA
means business austin
Rising Star of the Legal Industry: MEET ATTORNEY KARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY
Kara L. O’Shaughnessy, a highly respected attorney based in Austin, Texas and the Co-Chair of the Austin Bar Association Pro Bono Committee, is a force to be reckoned with in the legal industry. Her passion for the law and her dedication to her clients have earned her a reputation as a fierce advocate and trial attorney. With a focus on civil litigation, oil and gas, landlord-tenant, and real property law, Kara consistently exceeds expectations, even when the stakes are high, and time is short.
Kara’s passion for law is evident in her dedication. Working as a paralegal before attending law school gave her a unique perspective and the drive to do more for her clients. For Kara, litigation involves lifelong learning, as she needs to understand the details of a specific contract, how a particular process works, or a sequence of events, in order to explain it later to a judge or jury. In particular, she finds litigation rewarding because it requires her to delve into the details of a case and use her knowledge to advocate for her client.
Of course, being a lawyer is not without its challenges. For Kara, the biggest challenge is balancing the personalities involved in a case to achieve a settlement. But her ability to multitask and empathize with her clients makes her well-equipped to handle this challenge. Kara sees these—and the fact that she is often underestimated—as some of her greatest strengths as a female lawyer. And when it comes to winning cases, she assisted with several notable wins, including the resolution of the Saucedo v. Kerlin case, where she helped Hispanic families reacquire their mineral estate under Padre Island, which was featured in the Texas Monthly article “Return to Padre” by Cecilia Ballí.
Despite the demands of her career, Kara is also a loving single mother of three. She’s found ways to balance work and family life, like going on road trips and having family movie nights. And for new attorneys just starting out, Kara’s advice is simple but effective: stay humble, work hard, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Whether she’s volunteering as a pro bono attorney or taking her kids on outdoor safaris, Kara brings her all to everything she does. Kara’s clients know they can count on her to take great care of their case. As part of an amazing law firm, she has been working with the same four attorneys in her litigation section for 20 years. They are a well-oiled machine and “work-family” with 100+ years of combined legal experience. For any individual or business in need of legal representation, Kara L O’Shaughnessy of Duggins Wren Mann & Romero is a name you can trust for the utmost care and attention to your case. MA
Kara L. O’Shaughnessy
Duggins Wren Mann & Romero, LLP 600 Congress Avenue, Suite 2700 Austin, Texas 78701
LIFE IS A TRIP AT TRIPPIEZ
Backpacks, grinders, trays, and Zippos. Water pipes, hookahs, vape mods and wraps. These are just a few of the products that you will find in vast abundance at Trippiez.
by Daryl K. Jones
Trippiez is a chain of gift, accessory, and smoke shops with five locations throughout the Austin area, the average spend being around $20-$25. Trippiez started as a family business and has been kept thriving by a father, his son, and a close cousin. Trippiez has been operating since July of 2021. However, two of their locations were up and operating under different names since 2018, before the decision to brand all of the locations by the same name. Aside from tobacco products, Trippiez also provides a very wide selection of hemp products from vapes to edibles. They also carry products like artisan scented candles, handcrafted jewelry, and art by local artists. Trippiez is more than your average smoke shop, though. It is a place where like-minded people go to shop and engage in niceties with one another while conversing and exchanging ideas.
“We don’t really see ourselves as smoke shops as much as we are members of our community and neighborhood,” explains Ahmad Alnajjar, co-owner of Trippiez. “We have close relationships with our customers, sometimes customers are asking our employees to hang out after work. Other small business owners near us like to hang out for a few minutes after they purchase something because they see us as a neighbor more than a shop.”
The reputation for being a safe haven for free thought, coupled with their open-door policy and excellent customer service is something that has served Trippiez well. Trippiez is also as loyal to their customers as their customers are to them. Their loyalty program is a 5% cash back reward for each dollar the customer spends. Customers sign up with a phone number or email, and with each purchase they add a dollar amount to their account; cash they can redeem at any time.
They also provide “buy two” discounts: two vapes that are $20 each will sell two for $35, and other ones that are $25 each will sell two for $40.
With deals like these and the vibe they provide, Trippiez is living up to their company’s core values of empathy, community, and professionalism on the daily. MA
A MESSAGE FROM THE OWNER:
“We are humans just like you. We love almost all of the same things, just like you. We love a good time, spending time with good people who respect us, and we are for the people. When you come to Trippiez, you’re our neighbor, not just our customer, you’re a part of a greater community of passionate individuals, who just want to enjoy life one day at a time with no bad trips.”
-Ahmad Alnajjar
Trippiez #1
12636 Research Blvd b104, Austin, TX 78759
Trippiez #2 (my baby) 13764 Research Blvd, Austin,TX 78750
Trippiez #3 aka SOCO 6606 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
Trippiez #4 16238 Ranch to Market Rd 620 Suite G, Austin, TX 78717
Trippiez #5 11699 Hero Way W, Leander, TX 78641
Visit www.Trippiez.com for more information
When three accomplished women – Amy Edwards, Keisha Watkins, and Dr. Joanne Sotelo – walked into Loren Lahav’s True Legacy Collective Mastermind as strangers, they couldn’t have imagined how their paths would intertwine to create something extraordinary.
Amy Edwards arrived with an impressive resume as the host of The Amy Edwards Show, which inspires thousands to step into their potential, and as co-founder of Fight For Her, a nonprofit empowering Batwa Pygmy women and girls. Yet, she sensed there was more to discover. Through this group, she launched Overflow Bottle Co., a one-for-one water bottle company that is expanding her impact and legacy.
Keisha Watkins, after 23 years as a nurse, turned her passion for hospitality into a dream venture with her husband, Chad: Wrenwood Ranch. Located in Johnson City, Texas, Wrenwood Ranch is a serene destination offering the beauty of the Texas Hill Country combined with modern comforts. Designed as both a retreat and an event space, it offers thoughtfully crafted accommodations and a soon-to-be stunning venue for weddings and celebrations. Built with love and care, it’s a place where guests can escape, unwind, and create lasting memories. Wrenwood Ranch isn’t just a getaway—it’s an experience of connection, nature, and hospitality.
Dr. Joanne Sotelo is a psychiatrist and mindset coach passionate about helping women in medicine redefine success,
POWER OF WOMEN THE COMING TOGETHER
reclaim their time, and create lives of harmony and fulfillment. Grounded in mental health and personal development, her coaching empowers women to release stress, guilt, and limitations, guiding them to step into their power. Influenced by her Puerto Rican roots, she values cultural diversity and community. Fluent in English and Spanish, Dr. Sotelo connects deeply with women, helping them align their personal and professional lives.
What began as casual conversations during workshop breaks evolved into deep discussions about purpose, impact, and feminine leadership. Despite their diverse backgrounds—entrepreneurship, nursing, and medicine—they found their missions were beautifully aligned.
“We each approached transformation from different angles,” Amy reflects. “But together, we realized we could create something much more powerful than any of us could achieve alone.”
Today, the trio collaborates on initiatives that blend their unique strengths. Keisha’s ranch will host programs and retreats with Dr. Sotelo’s personal development and coaching expertise, while Amy’s global platform amplifies their collective message of empowerment and self-care. They’ve launched ventures combining Amy’s advocacy work, Keisha’s hospitality expertise, and Dr. Sotelo’s medical insights.
“What started as chance meetings has become a true sisterhood,” Keisha shares. “We’re showing women it’s never too late
to say yes to your dreams, and you don’t have to do it alone.”
Their unexpected friendship, forged through True Legacy Collective, continues to inspire others. They’re now spreading this message of transformation through Loren Lahav’s recent Badass and Beautiful Own Your Worth Experience, which happened March 7-9 in Las Vegas.
“Through this experience,” Dr. Sotelo explains, “I’ve witnessed the strength of women lifting one another up and inspiring meaningful change.”
This transformative event, presented in-person and virtually, invited participants to forge their own unexpected alliances and step into their power. Just as Amy, Keisha, and Joanne discovered their shared purpose, attendees had the chance to connect, grow, and create their own legacy.
Learn more at lorenlahav.com and join a community of powerful women ready to own their worth and create lasting impact. MA
Joanne Sotelo, M.D. Theharmonizedhealer.com @joannesotelomd Create Meaning in Medicine Podcast Amy Edwards amyedwards.com @realamyedwards
We know Laura Hartnett as the driving force behind, and owner/operator of GlowGal Salon; a full-service hair salon and extension bar located in Cedar Park. Additionally, this year she launched GlowGal Enterprises: an online business that teaches mothers, (or anyone wanting to earn an income online), how to earn money while staying home and raising their kids. “We as women have an abundance of choices,” states Hartnett, “I’ve talked with many women that are still desiring to earn money without sacrificing time with their kids, and GlowGal Enterprises shows you how.”
For those who wish to participate, Laura has set up a dedicated Instagram for GlowGal Enterprises. There, you will be able to find remote jobs for mothers (including information on how much they can get paid), as well as a link to access her free ebook. In this ebook, you will be educated on what affiliate marketing looks like, programs that Laura herself has used, and the steps to get you started. It is important to note here that Laura is not just pursuing this venture as a way to promote and enrich herself, as she has already laid a great foundation for her own life and would remain successful whether or not anyone decides to participate. This is truly a labor of love for Laura Hartnett. She genuinely wants to be a resource to help those who are struggling to find their purpose, with a special focus on what is (or in my opinion, should be) the true backbone of any civilized society: women, and particularly mothers. Also, there are no machinations that would confuse anyone in this process. Simply visit the Insta, and right there, you will see
step-by-step instructions to start earning today!
Laura Hartnett has been a working mom, mom boss, business owner, as well as a stay-at-home mom. It is more than fair to say that she sees the value of all these choices. Laura’s hope is to inspire women to feel comfortable with whatever path they choose, and assist in any way she can to help them succeed.
As for what’s new with GlowGal Salon, it is growing into a tiered salon which will allow Laura and her team to service many different clients, (regardless of budget), so clients receive a “quality, and fun experience.” This is evidenced by the reviews many have posted regarding GlowGal’s acumen, as well as their superior service. The overall message received is that they
work with heart, alongside their talent. Laura is proud of this reputation for customer service, and feels that this needs to become a focus again in business. To inspire this sentiment in a new generation of stylists, Laura has also added to the team, and now offers an apprenticeship program. Concerning GlowGal Salon’s newest services, they are most proud of being one of the only salons in Texas that offer Mesh Integration Systems, which are the most advanced methods of hair extensions in the hair care industry. It helps those suffering from alopecia.
Additionally, throughout 2023, Laura opened her salon up to several industry educators so her staff is always ahead of the latest trends and techniques, also ensuring that her staff is provided with the support they need to give the best service. This year, they had Cole Thompson pay them a visit to expand their cutting techniques, and Jessica Powers to grow their talent in vivid coloring. Anyone who decides to visit GlowGal Salon will definitely be satisfied with their work. MA
For more information on GlowGal Enterprises: @glowgalenterprises, or search the web at www.glowgalaffiliate. com/256f494b
For more information on GlowGal Salon: @glowgalsalon, or search the web at www.glowgalsalon.com
MYAUSTIN LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY
SAINT MARY CATHEDRAL
203 East 10th Street
Austin, TX 78701
Smcaustin.org
Rector: Fr. Daniel Liu
Sun. Mass: 7:30am, 9:30am, 12pm (512) 476-6182
GATEWAY CHURCH
7104 McNeil Dr. Austin, TX 78729 northaustin@gatewaychurch.com www.gatewaychurch.com
Pastor: Ross Sagehorn
Sun. Service: 9:15am & 11:15am
SHORELINE CHURCH
2008 Brandt Rd Austin, TX 78744 www.shoreline.net
Pastors: Rob & Laura Koke Sun. Service: 10am
MILWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH
12217 Cassady Dr. Austin, TX 78727 info@yourchurch.com www.milwoodbaptist.com
Pastor: Nathan Loudin
Sun. Worship: 10:30am (512) 834-1100
CAPITOL CITY BAPTIST CHURCH
1300 Redd Street Austin, TX 78745 www.capitolcitybaptist.org
Pastor: Adam Thompson
Sun. Service: 10am & 6pm (512) 447-9454
LAKE HILLS CHURCH 11521 Bee Caves Rd. Austin, TX 78738 www.lhc.org
