In this engaging episode of Small Business Origins, host John The Marketer sits down with Matt Lawrence, founder of Lone Star Development, to explore the journey of building a family-owned real estate development company deeply rooted in community values. From growing up in a small Texas town surrounded by entrepreneurship to managing multi-million-dollar development projects in Tomball, Matt shares insights on balancing work, family, and business growth. Discover how Lone Star Development transforms properties with a people-first approach and works hand-in-hand with the Tomball Economic Development Corporation to foster local business success.

Key Topics Discussed:

- The evolution of their definition of success: from flashy dreams to focusing on integrity, family, and community respect (00:02:14)

- Matt's entrepreneurial roots growing up in a family car wash business, including his international experience managing a major car wash in Germany (00:17:12)

- Transitioning from family legacy to founding Lone Star Development, rebranding from a “mom and pop” model to a full-service development company (00:22:27)

- Challenges and rewards of managing construction, leasing, and property management within development (00:24:59)

- Importance of community engagement and creating developments that reflect neighborhood needs—not just quick profit (00:48:44)

- The vital partnership with the Tomball Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to secure grants, support, and tenant connections (01:10:05)

- Overview of Lone Star’s projects including the Hufsmith-Kohrville Business Park in Tomball and the upcoming Theis/Cherry development (01:02:27 and 01:31:40)

- How Lone Star Development supports small business tenants—from fledgling startups to expanding operations—offering flexible leasing and hands-on support (00:56:19)

- The future direction of development in Tomball, balancing city infrastructure, community growth, and thoughtful planning (01:17:35)

Notable Quotes & Moments:

- “Success, to me, is holding true to your promise—being a man of integrity and being respected by your community.” (00:02:35) - Matt Lawrence

- “We really see all of our tenants as partners. If they're successful, we’re successful.” (01:01:00) - Matt Lawrence

- “If you build something and the community doesn’t like it, it’s pretty much not going to be successful.” (00:49:50) - Matt Lawrence

- “The Tomball EDC has been 10 out of 10 to work with. They’re really there to help local businesses grow.” (01:10:05) - Matt Lawrence

- “We’re focused on building a brand and a community, not just structures.” (00:22:41) - Matt Lawrence

Episode Timestamps:

- 00:00 – Introduction & Icebreaker on defining success

- 00:17 – Matt’s origin story and family background in business

- 00:22 – Founding