Exploring #WhyAustin
As part of an ongoing series, we’re exploring the business culture and environment in Austin. Everyone knows that over 100 people move to the city every day. Every. Day. So, instead of talking about how Austin graces nearly every desirable Top 10 list ever published, we’re asking some of the most relevant names in business to opine.
Instead of crunching numbers, we’re taking an honest pulse of what makes Austin great, but what some of the challenges are. To do that, we’ve interviewed company founders, politicians, startup investors, programmers, artists, musicians, and so many more.
Today, we’re chatting with Bronko Box’s Brooke Cox
Brooke and Bo Cox founded Bronko Box, a service we have used for our last three moves. They deliver commercial-strength plastic moving boxes already assembled and stacked, and you just tell the website how many rooms you have, and it helps you to calculate your needs.
We love the concept and are confident that they’ll be nationwide before you know it – not only is this completely eco-friendly, but we found it to be the best way to get unpacked in a reasonable amount of time (they pick them up for you on a pre-agreed date, and you pay by the week). Genius. Truly.
Because we’ve been such fans of their service which we’ve personally used three times already (and plan to again next year), who better to discuss Austin with? Below is our interview with Brooke, and we love that she definitely embodies the Austin life. Read on…
When did you move to Austin? Why did you come here?
I’ve been lucky enough to call this neck of the woods home since 2001, when I moved here for college.
What is the most attractive part of doing business in Austin?
The people – hands down. The opportunity to be surrounded by a community that really wants to see their local businesses succeed, and the people that make an effort to spread the word and help your business grow – there’s nothing like it.
What is your opinion on the quality of life in Austin compared to elsewhere?
It’s tough to beat life in Austin – there’s this laid-back ‘come as you are’ kind of atmosphere, that you just don’t find in other cities: it’s a really inspiring place to be.
Have you ever considered relocating your company? Why/why not?
Expanding, yes. Relocating, no thanks. I love a city that doesn’t take itself so seriously (and I especially love being able to get a great meal without a dress code – that’s a perk).
What are the biggest challenges when hiring talent in Austin?
There are so many great brands and companies right here in Austin – finding the right people who want to grow with your company, that can be challenging.
Do you agree that Austinites are among the most generous with their Rolodexes?
Actually, yes. I’m always surprised at how willing people are to put you in contact with somebody that they think you should be doing business with, or could help keep your company moving in a forward direction – lots of good folks in Austin.
Which is brightest: Austin’s past, present, or future? Why?
Ouch, tough subject. I miss ‘Old Austin’ as much as the next person, but I’m also so proud to see big brands being built right in our backyard, and our city generating the buzz it so rightly deserves.
Is Austin’s level of innovation ahead of the curve, average, or in need of improvement?
I would have to say that we’re ahead of the curve – this is a city that encourages innovation, with a community that is willing to explore and embrace change.
How do you feel about Austin being on nearly every “Best Of” list?
Completely unsurprised (and lucky).
Connect with Brooke
You can connect with Brooke at Bronko Box on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook. We are especially fond of their Instagram account!
A special thank you to Brooke for spending so much time with us digesting the strengths and weaknesses of Austin!
Read other #WhyAustin interviews:
#WhyAustin
Lani is the COO and News Director at The American Genius, has co-authored a book, co-founded BASHH, Austin Digital Jobs, Remote Digital Jobs, and is a seasoned business writer and editorialist with a penchant for the irreverent.

Redi-Box Moving Boxes
October 28, 2015 at 2:45 pm
Congrats Brooke! Keep up the good work. We operate a similar moving box rental service in Chicago (www.Redi-Box.com) Feel free to reach out!