IBC Bank’s “Mind Your Business” Celebrates Two Years of Community Impact

IBC Bank’s “Mind Your Business” television program is marking its second anniversary, emphasizing its role in connecting local business leaders to stimulate economic growth while providing essential business and financial education.

Host Gabriel Castillo, who is the executive vice president of corporate marketing at IBC Bank, noted that the show’s success echoes the bank’s commitment to its motto, “We Do More.” He mentioned that the primary aim has always been to offer valuable content that serves the community, spanning a diverse range of business and finance topics and featuring guests tied to the local economy.

“We try to promote business from every angle,” Castillo explained. They cover subjects like logistics, education, and healthcare, which he pointed out can help business owners maintain their health and offer appropriate insurance and benefits to their employees.

Since its debut two years ago, the show has transitioned to a monthly format. Castillo wanted the title to be catchy enough to draw interest. “I’ve always liked creative names that get attention,” he remarked, adding, “It can mean ‘take care of yourself,’ but it also encourages people to come in and learn about business.”

He emphasized that the program reflects the bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility by delivering business and financial education to the community. “To me, it’s a win-win,” he added. “We’re not just promoting banks. Honestly, only about 10% of the show is about us, while the rest focuses on helping the community grow and providing good opportunities.”

Throughout the series, Castillo has interviewed leaders from local universities, including Dr. Christopher Maynard, president of Texas A&M International University, and Dr. Minita Ramirez from Laredo University. “They talked about workforce development and scholarship opportunities,” he noted, highlighting the aim to broaden access to higher education in Laredo.

Castillo also shared a memorable interview with Norma Rodriguez from the TAMIU Small Business Development Center, which supports entrepreneurs in launching and expanding their businesses. “She brought a client who started a beef jerky business,” Castillo recalled, noting how Rodriguez assisted her in writing a business plan and obtaining her first loan from IBC Bank.

Such stories exemplify how local organizations can collaborate to foster entrepreneurship. The show’s scope has grown well beyond banking, discussing topics ranging from workforce development to economic trends. “Viewers discover opportunities they may not have known about before,” he observed, mentioning various ways the show positively affects the community.

Looking ahead, Castillo aims to increase the production frequency to two episodes a month and ideally launch a fully Spanish version. This is essential, he believes, as many local business owners navigate their work primarily in Spanish. “We operate in both English and Spanish because we serve a bilingual community,” he explained.

He also conveyed that one crucial takeaway for entrepreneurs is the increased challenges of running a business today compared to years past. “Technology, taxes, tariffs – everything changes; you must stay involved in every facet of your business,” Castillo emphasized, sharing insights from his own previous experiences running a flower shop.

Castillo expressed pride in the enthusiastic acceptance of his guests to share their expertise on the show, noting their genuine passion for their fields. Moreover, he commended the spirit of collaboration among local businesses. “We all support each other,” he stated, recalling his time on the Laredo Chamber of Commerce board with representatives from competing banks.

He shared a surprising anecdote about the show’s recognition from the community. “I was at a gas station, and someone came up to me, mentioning they found my segment interesting.” Such moments reinforce the show’s relevance. Castillo believes the program remains focused on financial education but hopes to delve into various other community issues in the future.

“Mind Your Business” airs every Sunday at 10 a.m. on KGNS-TV and is also available on the bank’s Facebook and YouTube pages. “Everyone should give it a watch; you never know whose story might inspire you or help you address a challenge,” he encouraged.