MAX TEXAS | Real Talk

Real Talk is a new gathering from MAX Business that brings Houston's business owners and aspiring founders together for honest conversation about building a business: the decisions, setbacks, turning points, and lessons that rarely make it into the success story.

Hear from experienced operators across different industries as they share how they got started, what nearly stopped them, how they grew, and what they'd tell someone standing where they once stood. No polished pitches, just real stories.

In this candid panel discussion, we'll explore:

• Getting started: turning an idea into a real business in Houston
• What broke: the hard decisions, wrong turns, and setbacks along the way
• How they grew: what actually moved the needle, and what they'd do differently

Have a question you've always wanted to ask someone who's been there? Submit it when you register, and it could help shape the conversation.

Who Are Our Speakers?
Our panelists are Houston business owners from a range of industries, each with firsthand experience starting, running, and scaling a business here. They'll share practical, honest insight into what it really takes to build something that lasts. Check out the speaker details below.

Discover Local Businesses
After the panel, stay for open networking and explore our local business showcase. A curated group of up-and-coming Houston businesses will have tables set up with samples, so you can meet the people behind them, try what they offer, and support local founders in our community.

Schedule
6:30 PM · Doors open + networking
7:00 PM · Panel + live Q&A
8:00 PM · Networking + local business showcase
9:00 PM · Close

Whether you're running a business right now or have an idea with no roadmap yet, this room is for you.

Ticket Includes:
Food/Refreshments

* By attending this event, you consent to photography, video recording, and the use of your image or likeness for promotional and marketing purposes related to future events and community initiatives. Please inform the MAX team on the day of the event if you do not wish to be photographed.

Nearby parking lots & garages:

Lanier Surface Lot (699 Lamar St)

• Standard Daily Rate: Prices typically range from $10 to $25

1100 Smith St. Garage (1100 Smith St.)

• Starting around $10
• Covered, self-park, open 24/7, height limit 6'7"

Walker @ Main Parking Garage (925 Walker St.)

• Starting around $10 to $25.
• Self-park option within a short walk.