If you’ve noticed gritty, black or colored particles in your gutters, you’re likely seeing roof granules from your shingles.

 

These mineral or ceramic granules protect shingles against UV rays, add fire resistance, and help your roof shed water.

 

While some granule loss is normal as your roof ages, sudden increases may signal storm damage, accelerated wear, or even a sign of a recently installed roof settling in.

 

Excessive granule buildup can shorten your roof’s life, clog gutters, cause water backups, and leave shingles vulnerable to leaks and UV damage.

 

For Houston area residents, frequent granule loss or finding bare patches on shingles means your roof may need professional attention.

 

Seeking a roof inspection from a trusted local expert ensures you catch issues before they turn into costly repairs or leaks.

Connectors Business Network proudly welcomes Red O’Laughlin to its Leadership Team.

 

Red joins the community with a rich background as an author, educator, and speaker, recognized for his ability to help entrepreneurs clarify their message and build genuine authority.

 

He will lead the new Entrepreneurs Authority Lab, a monthly event offered every third Thursday evening.

 

This series is tailored for business owners, coaches, authors, and creatives seeking to amplify their voice and credibility, blending actionable training with dedicated working time so participants make real progress.

 

Red’s mentoring style is encouraging and practical, meeting individuals where they are and helping them discover what makes their stories worth sharing—without stress or overwhelm.

 

His addition strengthens Connectors’ core mission of fostering meaningful relationships, collaboration, and growth. The team is thrilled to have his insight, support, and passion as they continue to help local professionals thrive together.

Video marketing is now essential for entrepreneurs, coaches, and business owners seeking to build genuine connections online.

 

Marian LaSalle, the renowned Chief Connector at Referral Business Builders, is hosting a special online training: This Changes Everything: The Best Marketing Discovery I've Had in 10 Years.

 

The event takes place tonight, Thursday, December 11th, at 7:30 PM CT / 8:30 PM ET.

 

Anyone interested in improving their digital presence—coaches, creators, business owners, or those seeking more online visibility—will benefit.

 

This engaging session reveals how to make video creation simple, fun, and accessible for everyone.

 

Members enjoy this training as part of their benefits, while newcomers are invited to join the supportive community for future access.

 

Don’t miss your chance to transform your marketing with Marian LaSalle tonight.

Starting an entrepreneurial journey often comes from a desire to make a real difference.

 

For many, including myself, success is fueled by authentic connections and meaningful community involvement.

 

After transitioning from running an IT consulting firm in Houston, I discovered my true passion in helping entrepreneurs boost their visibility locally and online.

 

Getting involved in Houston’s vibrant events—like the Lantern Awards Gala by the Houston Business Marketing Alliance or Coffee & Connections by the Women’s Council of Entrepreneurs—offers exposure and a chance to network with leaders and peers.

 

Volunteering, such as joining the Houston Hackathon, not only spotlights your expertise but also shows your commitment to the community.

 

Sharing genuine stories and collaborations online builds trust and expands your reach.

 

Embracing your local roots creates a powerful narrative, fostering both local and wider recognition.

Engaging with Glena Stephenson of G Wiz Your Biz reveals a profound warmth backed by entrepreneurial insight.

 

Glena blends business acumen with heartfelt storytelling, using platforms like Chad Nicely’s Entourage Mastermind and Letterman to forge real connections.

 

Her newsletter, Elders Living a New Reality, highlights her belief that creativity and community are inextricably linked.

 

In the September 2025 edition, she explores key trends in senior living, from personalized care and technology integration to sustainable, eco-friendly practices.

 

Glena’s dedication to innovation empowers others to embrace aging with dignity and purpose.

 

Through her leadership and structured storytelling, she builds trust, uplifts communities, and inspires connection.

 

Her work serves as a lasting testament to the power of business and stories to drive meaningful change.

The AIA Houston 2025 Home Tour returns on October 18-19, inviting locals to discover eight standout private homes that capture Houston’s rich architectural spirit.

 

Each stop, from the modern Hunters Creek House by Biazar Studio to the sleek Wink Residence by studioMET Architects, highlights unique styles and innovation.

 

The Gibbs House on Euclid Street offers a blend of urban tradition and modern living, while the Backyard Bungalow on Cortlandt Street transforms classic structures with creative, adaptive reuse.

 

Tickets are discounted through October 17, at $35 for the full tour, or $30 for bike riders, with weekend prices rising to $40.

 

Kids under 12 join for $25, and single-home tickets are $10 at the door.

 

This rain-or-shine event is a must for design fans, offering both inspiration and a closer look at Houston’s residential creativity.

An enduring change transforms you, shaping your outlook and habits for the better.

 

Adding morning meditation or experimenting with home-cooked meals sparks positive shifts in your health and mindset.

 

New routines inspire fresh perspectives, fueling growth in both body and mind.

 

Embracing transformative choices gives you newfound control and energy, especially when you blend them with traditions you already cherish.

 

It’s not about giving up what you love, but wisely weaving in practices that enhance your well-being.

 

Focusing on the good in your life draws even more positivity and momentum.

 

Cooking at home, for example, nurtures health while building resilience and self-reliance.

 

Challenges may arise on your wellness journey, but mentors and friends are there to help you succeed.

 

Recent advances like wearable devices and online mental health resources make proactive self-care easier than ever.

 

Integrating these tools empowers you to approach change with confidence and support.

Embracing change opens the door to personal growth and renewed well-being.

 

Small adjustments, like adding a short meditation to your morning or exploring new recipes at home, can transform your outlook and daily health habits.

 

Dedicating even a few minutes to self-care or cooking introduces nourishing routines for both mind and body.

 

These changes don’t require abandoning cherished traditions — instead, they build upon what you value, guiding your well-being in a positive direction.

 

Local communities are supporting this journey, with health fairs and wellness symposiums in places like Columbus, Indiana, and Midland, Texas, offering free screenings, fitness demonstrations, and expert guidance.

 

Participating in these events provides practical resources for long-term wellness, reminding us that change can be a friend, mentor, and a stepping stone toward a healthier, more empowered life.

On a recent Connectors Edge Podcast, Shauna Jefferson, owner of Chefs for Seniors Houston, shared her passion for serving the elderly with nourishing, personalized meals prepared right in their homes.

 

At the helm since 2018, Jefferson emphasizes building real connections, treating each client like family, and focusing on people above all else.

 

The service offers remarkable flexibility, accommodating dietary restrictions and health needs with a customizable menu featuring 175+ items, ensuring clients get exactly what they require.

 

Co-host Ricky McKenna, who has worked with Jefferson, described the unique bonds chefs form with clients, making every visit meaningful and heartfelt.

 

Beyond meals, Jefferson empowers local seniors through community outreach—including cooking demos with the American Heart Association—helping residents make healthy choices at home.

 

New clients can receive $25 off their first two visits by mentioning the podcast, connecting more Houstonians with supportive, senior-focused care.

Houston remains a launchpad for big dreams, offering boundless opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals alike.

 

To help turn ambition into achievement, Referral Business Builders is hosting Mindset for Business: Unlock Big Dreams + Houston Networking on Tuesday, September 23rd at 7:30 AM at Office In America, 6464 Savoy Dr #777.

 

Attendance is free, giving participants access to expert insights from Chris Severs and Anthony White, with moderation by Marian LaSalle and Elise Nelson.

 

Attendees will gain practical mindset tools, connect with Houston’s business community, and discover fresh strategies for growth.

 

The event also offers a supportive online network for ongoing connection at $10/month.

 

This gathering joins a packed month of local networking opportunities, further showcasing Houston’s thriving spirit and collaborative energy.

Public speaking is a major fear, even for Houston’s entrepreneurs and community leaders, but genuine connection is the key to overcoming nerves.  

Michelle Bilsk of Signature Stages shared on The Connector’s Edge Podcast that true inspiration means lifting up your audience by focusing on their experiences, not your own.  

Host Marian LaSalle recommends calming stage fright by asking questions, which shifts the spotlight to listeners and sparks immediate engagement.  

Whether at local meetups or online, Houston’s thriving business scene is fueled by relationships and personal connections.  

Co-host Ricki McKenna reminded listeners that passion and intuition create the most lasting impact—people remember how you make them feel, not just what you sell.  

In a city built on collaboration and referrals, focusing on authentic connection, asking for help, and following your passion can turn a single conversation into powerful new opportunities.