Welcome to On the Border, where local voices take center stage. Join two attorneys—George Altgelt and Carlos Guerra—passionate about their community, as they dive into the rich culture, vibrant art, and complex politics of Laredo. With a focus on local issues, we explore the beauty and challenges that shape our city, while fostering conversations that bring us closer together. Tune in to hear stories, uncover truths, and get involved in what truly matters right here at home.
PURO CORAZON - GET TO KNOW LAREDO'S NEWEST RISING STAR - EL ROB CASTILLO
09/27/26 OTB W/ "George & friends come and join us" - Please welcome Laredo's own, the talented and heartfelt Rob Castillo and his father, Don Roberto Castillo. The Co-Hostess with the mostest, the real brains of the operation, my favorite person on Earth, Mrs. Rosy Altgelt, and I interview Rob and his father about their musical roots, Prince and Grupo Fantasma, Selina and Ricky Munoz, and what allhe learned directly from Ramon Ayala. Come for the jam session and stay to learn what makes Laredo's newest rising star tick!
29 Sept 2026
LAREDO MAYOR TREVINO & FAMILY HAVE HIJACKED THE CITY
08/26/26 OTB W/ "George & friends come and join us" with Valentin Ruiz, Jesse "The Dude" Herrera, and Alberto Guajardo to discuss how Mayor Trevino's family has co-opted the City of Laredo's Council Meetings, public comments, and photo ops at the expense of the public, who are forced to wait hours just to be heard at city council meetings while "Mayor Jr." and "Mrs. Mayor" give themselves awards and recognitions instead of getting down to the business of securing our water and protecting our privacy.
11 Jul 2026
“The Lord’s Work” - A candid interview with Laredo Boys and Girls Club President Joey Tellez and President Elect Keith Franklin.
Lawyers by day, do-gooders by night. Meet the dynamic duo that are leveling up the already great work and legacy of Laredo’s best bang for your buck charity. From regional expansion to surrounding communities to integration of STEM programs for teens, have a listen to how this organization operates. Come for the hope, stay for how they might even integrate into the City of Laredo’s Recreation Centers.
13 Jan 2026
¡Politics & Más!
Join Sergio Mora, Hammrod News, Carlos Mariano Guerra for our first 2026 episode!
• Vanessa Perez' $6M Boondoggle: What's the real cost?
• Webb County Judge race: Can Tano E. Tijerina take down Henry Cuellar?
• Venezuela under Trump Admin: Mission accomplished?
Tune in for thought-provoking Laredo politics discussions!
24 Sept 2025
Meet Joaquin Rodriguez, a real lawyer for a real court!
After 12 years of distinguished service on the bench, Judge Monica Notzon leaves the 111th District Court better than she found it and career prosecutor, adjunct professor, and public servant Joaquin Rodriguez intends to do the same.
Learn about Joaquin’s stellar career as an Assistant District Attorney and his leading role as a civil litigator on behalf of the City of Laredo — and why he believes his years of experience make him the right person for the job.
18 Aug 2025
Breaking the Mold: The Art of Health with Dr. Melissa Martin
New Episode Alert! Just dropped: "On the Border with George Altgelt and Friends" featuring Laredo's own trailblazing Dr. Melissa Martin! We're diving deep into lifestyle medicine, root-cause health solutions, and her innovative Axis Direct primary care model right here in Laredo. From growing up on a South Texas ranch to building personalized health plans that go beyond pills-- think nutrition, sleep hacks, stress-busting tips and even a shot of olive oil?
https://youtu.be/5psU2FbNPyc
3 Jun 2025
Former Laredo Councilmember Eliseo Valdez: Then and Now – An Analysis of Laredo Faith and His Heart of Service.
Former Laredo Councilmember Eliseo Valdez analyzes Laredo's investment strategies and discusses how faith and service can benefit the community in this interview with George Altgelt.
5 Mar 2025
Producer Karen Gaytan wins an Emmy
Laredo's own Karen Gaytan brings home an Emmy as a producer for 'Stories of Hope and Ingenuity' in National Geographic's Science Fair: The Series. On the Border visits with Karen regarding her purposeful steps and the exercise of true grit along the uphill road to living out her purpose on earth
22 Jan 2025
From Small-Town Roots to Big Impact: Keith Franklin
Keith Franklin is a successful attorney, philanthropist, and community leader. He joins us to share his journey—from his work with the Boys & Girls Club and the Laredo Area Community Foundation to his father’s artisanal craftsmanship.
Join us in this engaging episode with Keith Franklin as we dive into topics of philanthropy, community service, and adventure. This episode is a mix of heartfelt conversations, insightful reflections, and a celebration of giving back.
(00:00) Introduction and Casual Banter
(01:13) Starting the Podcast: Drinks and Cigars
(03:10) Guest Introduction: Keith Franklin
(05:42) Keith's Background and Family
(11:06) Board Games and Poker Stories
(17:11) Philanthropy and Boys & Girls Club
(31:57) Challenges of After-School Programs
(33:12) Boys and Girls Club Partnerships
(34:04) City and School District Collaborations
(35:59) Funding and Maintenance Issues
(41:15) Community Engagement and Improvements
(43:55) Personal Reflections and New Year's Resolutions
(45:40) Travel Adventures in Patagonia
(01:06:13) Motorcycle Travel and Wanderlust
(01:13:34) Exploring the Blanco River
(01:14:15) Human Nature and Exploration
(01:14:38) Climate Change
(01:16:45) Finding Happiness in Service
(01:19:03) The Dr. Lance T Fox Memorial Organization
(01:27:50) The Laredo Area Community Foundation
(01:29:38) Setting Up Endowments and Scholarships
(01:38:52) Managing Nonprofit Funds
(01:43:48) Reflections on Long-Term Impact
(01:47:17) Cotulla and Laredo Connections
(01:52:24) Concluding Thoughts and Farewell
26 Nov 2024
On the Ballot: Tannya Benavides
Tannya Benavides shares her grassroots vision for District 4, emphasizing transparency, good governance, and community involvement to combat big money influences and create a thriving city for future generations.
20 Oct 2024
On the Ballot: Jose Ovando
In this comprehensive episode of “On the Border” George Altgelt and Carlos Guerra sit down with candidate for District 5, Jose Ovando, and various pressing issues faced by Laredo are meticulously unpacked. The podcast covers a range of topics including the alarming water contamination crisis, inadequate infrastructure, local political corruption, and the socio-economic impact on local businesses. In their discussions, the hosts address the urgent need for ethical governance, systemic reforms, and community engagement. The episode features insights from Jose Ovando as he discusses the city council pay raises, public health concerns, and the crucial role of civic responsibilities. Through personal anecdotes and community stories, the episode underscores how integrity, transparency, and proactive participation can drive meaningful change in Laredo.
(00:00) Introduction and Initial Concerns
(00:45) Meet the Hosts and Guest Introduction
(01:25) Candidate's Motivation and City Issues
(02:04) Water Crisis and Public Trust
(03:58) Integrity and Accountability in Leadership
(05:42) City Management and Infrastructure Challenges
(21:48) Economic Development and City Reputation
(32:13) Community and Law Enforcement
(39:10) Discussing Influential Books
(39:33) Political Ethics and Advocacy
(41:14) Council Member Allowances Debate
(48:13) Community Leadership and Bullying Issues
(50:27) Campaign Funding and Integrity
(59:13) Water Crisis and Infrastructure Concerns
(01:03:10) Closing Thoughts and Personal Stories
20 Oct 2024
On the Ballot: Lizzy Newsome
This episode of 'On the Border' features Lizzie Newsome, a dedicated candidate for the Laredo College Board of Trustees, Position 5. Lizzie shares her deep-rooted connections to Laredo and her passion for public service, stemming from her 27-year career in education. The discussion covers a wide array of topics including mental health and substance abuse support, enhancing educational programs, campus revitalization, faculty morale, and budget priorities. Lizzie emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems, improved certifications in high-demand fields, competitive faculty benefits, and proper staffing to handle increased student enrollment. With personal anecdotes and reflections on balancing career and family life, Lizzie's narrative reveals her dedication to integrity, compassionate leadership, and community-centric decision-making, aiming to bring new energy and innovation to Laredo College.
(00:00) Introduction and Opening Remarks
(00:39) Meet the Co-Host: Carlos Guerra
(01:03) Interview with Lizzie Newsome
(01:45) Lizzie's Background and Motivation
(05:34) Challenges in Education and Substance Abuse
(08:36) Innovative Programs and Future Vision
(12:10) Revitalizing Laredo College
(21:24) Addressing Faculty and Staff Concerns
(28:30) Reinvigorating Student Engagement
(29:33) Challenges in College Recruitment
(33:15) Personal Background and Values
(42:55) Educational Journey and Career
(47:09) Vision for the Future
(56:45) Final Thoughts and Call to Action
14 Oct 2024
Water Woes and Political Waves: Conversation with Councilman Dr. Tyler King
From E. coli in the water to council pay raises—get the uncensored truth. Join George Altgelt and Carlos Guerra in their conversation with Councilmember for District 6 Dr. Tyler King as they unravel the complexities of Laredo's challenges in one of our most exciting podcast episodes yet! 🎧🔥 #ontheborder
(00:00) Tyler King Podcast
(00:47) Introduction and Icebreaker with Dr. Tyler King
(02:58) Challenges in Laredo's Water Infrastructure
(04:37) E. Coli in Water and City Management Issues
(13:23) Water Rate Increases and Financial Struggles
(25:24) City Council Pay Raise Controversy
(31:50) Public Reaction and Political Implications
(43:59) Public Reaction to Council Decisions
(45:34) The Importance of Open Government
(49:05) Local Elections and Civic Engagement
(52:57) The Role of Alternative Media
(54:37) Health Talk and Olive Oil Shot
7 Oct 2024
On the Ballot: Ruben Gutierrez Jr.
City Council Conversations: Balancing Business, Water, and Safety in Laredo
In this episode, Laredo City Council member for District 5, Ruben Gutierrez Jr., discusses his diverse background, including his role as a small business owner and former police officer, while addressing pressing local issues. He shares insights on his involvement in the establishment of the first Suicide Prevention Committee and suicide awareness initiatives, the development of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza, improving water infrastructure, and collaborating on the Loop 20 expansion project.
(00:48) Business and Public Service
(01:10) Motorcycle Escort Business
(02:20) Challenges and Risks in Escorting
(05:59) Police Career and Being Shot At
(11:29) Suicide Prevention Initiatives
(16:09) Vietnam Veterans Plaza Project
(21:07) Water Infrastructure and Future Planning
(22:06) Securing a Secondary Water Source for Laredo
(24:09) Controversies and Challenges with Legacy Water
(28:15) Mental Health and Wellness Facilities for First Responders
(33:25) Addressing Concerns About Council Member Salaries
(39:44) Collaborating with TxDOT on Loop 20 Expansion
(43:39) Ensuring Public Safety and Community Collaboration
(48:15) Concluding Remarks and Future Plans
3 Sept 2024
On the Ballot: Jesse Perez
In this episode of 'On the Border,' Host George Altgelt and Co-Host Carlos Guerra sit down with Jesse Perez, a candidate for Laredo's City Council District 5. Jesse shares his vision for Laredo, focusing on issues such as transportation, air quality, water resources, the need for an outer loop to decongest traffic and the controversial city council pension fund.
Music by Rick Cortez
(00:00) Introduction and Welcome
(00:31) The Importance of Local Political Discourse
(02:17) Introducing Jesse Perez
(02:46) Jesse Perez's Vision for Laredo
(03:22) Transportation Challenges and Solutions
(06:49) Air Quality and Public Health Concerns
(11:56) Water Source and Infrastructure Issues
(16:43 ) Jesse Perez's Commitment to the Community
(19:04) Closing Remarks and Contact Information
28 Aug 2024
Water and Air: Laredo's Environmental Challenges with Tricia Cortez
Join hosts George Altgelt and Carlos Guerra for the inaugural episode of 'On the Border.' In this episode, they sit down with Tricia Cortes, Executive Director of the Rio Grande International Studies Center, to discuss local Laredo issues that impact the border region. Topics include the history and mission of RISC, river water monitoring, environmental ordinances, and challenges like the future water security of Laredo. Get insights into air quality monitoring controversies, the role of public engagement, and forward-thinking environmental strategies.
Reach and audience
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 9 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
6
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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