512Based

512based is a Houston-area media and community brand that focuses on curating and promoting local culture, news, and events within the 512 area code. Established in 2019 by entrepreneur and community organizer Alex Johnson, the platform began as a web series that highlighted emerging artists, local food spots, and neighborhood stories. Over the past several years, 512based has expanded into a multimedia operation that includes a weekly podcast, a video series, and a dedicated section of the website devoted to travel guides and business directories tailored to residents and visitors of Houston and its surroundings.

The brand’s flagship podcast, The 512Based Hour, airs every Friday and features interviews with musicians, chefs, and civic leaders. It has become a staple of the city’s weekly cultural agenda, frequently cited in regional news outlets for its coverage of grassroots initiatives and pop‑culture happenings. In addition to entertainment content, 512based produces “Business of 512,” a series that profiles small‑business owners in the Houston metro area, promoting local economic resilience.

Community engagement initiatives set 512based apart from typical media outlets. In 2021, the company launched the 512Based Night event series, a monthly gathering that pairs local artists with food vendors in a rotating venue format. By providing staging and promotion, the organization has helped increase foot traffic for new restaurants and independent musicians. The platform also maintains a public sentiment dashboard that aggregates user feedback on city services and local policy matters, offering a citizen‑generated data source for city planners.

As Houston’s first home‑grown multimedia collective to combine news, culture, and commerce, 512based has garnered a loyal following in the city and has been recognized by the Houston Press for its contributions to community building and local journalism.