In Episode 76 of the Rock Solid: Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Michelle Ly, a City Council member, business owner, and mother, to explore how she balances her demanding roles. Published June 2, 2026, the episode highlights Ly's third term on the council and her expanding business portfolio, which includes Hall Roofing & Construction, The Rock Sports Bar, The Flats, and Alcove Cantina. Ly's story is a testament to servant leadership in a city that has become selective about new developments, as noted by the mayor.
Ly discusses the challenges of managing her businesses while serving on multiple boards, including the Round Rock Chamber, Williamson County Children's Advocacy Center, and Rotary. She candidly admits to operating on three to four hours of sleep most nights and time-blocking between meetings to handle payroll and roof inspections. Her dedication to downtown Round Rock is evident in her decision to rebuild The Rock Sports Bar after losing its original lease, stating, "My husband was like, this is not the way we end the Rock Sports Bar. Our landlord doesn't get to tell us the end of our story."
The conversation also touches on Round Rock's transformation from a "ghost town" to a thriving community, driven by entrepreneurs like Brooks Bennett and Salicia Sanchez Adame. Ly credits Mayor Pro Tem Kristen Stevens and colleagues for careful zoning changes. She shares personal anecdotes, such as donating a roof after hearing nonprofit leader Philip Golden speak, and her hope to take her daughter Reagan to Vietnam to connect with their heritage. For more insights, listeners can tune into the full episode on the podcast's website at rocksolidpodcast.com.
