Name: Trust, Storytelling, and the Economy: How Public Media Shapes Business Success
Start: 2026-01-15T11:30:00-06:00
Location: KUT Austin

Trust, Storytelling, and the Economy: How Public Media Shapes Business Success
Join the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce at KUT's Studio 1A for our First Monthly Chamber Luncheon of 2026 - a networking event that brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders over great food and conversation.
At a time when trust in institutions is shifting and communities are seeking credible, inclusive storytelling, public media plays a critical role in informing, connecting, and empowering the public. This conversation will explore the current state — and future funding realities — of public media in Central Texas, and what changing models could mean for access, sustainability, and community voice.
We’ll also look closely at how these dynamics affect businesses in our region — from workforce and economic development to brand trust, civic engagement, and partnership opportunities. Together, our panelists will discuss the evolving value of public broadcasting as a civic and economic good, and how collaboration across sectors can strengthen both community well-being and business success.
📍KUT (Studio 1A)
🗓️ Thursday, January 15, 2025
⏰ 11:30AM - 1:00PM
🎟️ $30 members, $60 non-members
🔗 https://bit.ly/4ppTktA
Panelists:
Luis Patiño — CEO, Austin PBS
With more than 25 years in mission-driven media leadership, Luis guides Austin PBS in its work to inform, entertain, and bridge communities across Central Texas, drawing on experience leading major Univision markets and building innovative community-centered initiatives.
Debbie Hiott — General Manager, KUT Public Media
Debbie oversees KUT News, KUTX 98.9, Texas Standard, Austin Signal, and their production studios, bringing decades of newsroom leadership and public service. A former executive editor of the Austin American-Statesman, she is deeply engaged in national conversations about journalism and transparency.
Todd Hogan — CEO, Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce
A longtime leader in Austin’s arts and nonprofit sectors, Todd previously helped transform KMFA 89.5 into a community cultural hub. As CEO of the Chamber, he focuses on economic empowerment, partnerships, and amplifying underrepresented business voices across the region.
Moderator: Fiona Dawson — Senior Director of Partnerships, Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce
Emmy®-nominated filmmaker, bestselling author, and host of OUT with Fiona, a new series presented by Austin PBS. At the Chamber, Fiona leads strategic partnerships, corporate engagement, and sponsorship relationships that help fuel economic opportunity and community impact.
Parking:
Paid parking available in 27th Street and San Antonio garages, as well as All Saint’s Episcopal Church (209 W. 27th St.). Metered parking is available on the street.