Deconstructing Dallas

The Rise of the Dallas Economy with Cullum Clark

Interview Begins @6:50 Episode Summary: In this on-site video episode of “Deconstructing Dallas,” Shawn and Ryan sit down inside the George W. Bush Institute with one of the region’s most respected economic thinkers — Dr. Cullum Clark, Director of the Bush Institute, SMU Economic Growth Initiative and adjunct economics professor at SMU. Dr. Clark shares his remarkable journey from a long career in investment management to earning a Ph.D. in economics at age 50 and how that path led him to focus on urban and regional economic growth, public policy and the future of North Texas. He breaks down the “formula” behind Dallas–Fort Worth’s incredible rise — from affordability and business climate to innovation, immigration and human capital — and explains why housing costs, workforce education and infrastructure will determine whether the region can sustain its momentum. Listeners also will hear behind-the-scenes stories about former President George W. Bush, favorite Dallas eats (including soup dumplings!) and Cullum’s leadership lessons for entrepreneurs and changemakers navigating today’s economy. Highlights from the Conversation: How the Bush Institute applies “timeless American values to today’s pressing issues” through research and policy work. Why DFW succeeds not by being No. 1 in any single category but by being consistently good across the board in key economic drivers. The biggest risks to Dallas’ continued growth — especially housing affordability and talent development. How trade protectionism and populist policies uniquely impact Texas’ trade-driven economy. Why employers must play a more active role in shaping the region’s workforce pipeline. Cullum’s journey from investor to economist — and the mentors who changed his life and career direction. Stories from surprise classroom visits by President Bush and what Cullum has learned from working closely with the Bush family. Leadership advice for entrepreneurs: “Read massively. Ask questions. Treat people well. Be nimble.” Learn more: BushCenter.org 🍽️ Cullum’s Favorite Dallas Spots * Shinsei * Fortune House * Kirin Court * Any place with great soup dumplings

Barrier Busting with Dallas College’s Dr. Justin Lonon

Episode Summary: In this special first-ever video episode of “Deconstructing Dallas”, Shawn and Ryan sit down with Dr. Justin Lonon, Chancellor of Dallas College, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, education and the role of Dallas College in North Texas.Dr. Lonon shares how his journey from small-town Arkansas native to Dallas City Hall staffer shaped his commitment to public service and education. He explains why Dallas College is in the “barrier-busting business” — helping students overcome challenges like transportation, food insecurity and affordability — and how the college’s mission to transform lives and communities through higher education drives every decision they make.Listeners will also hear about Dallas College’s 60th anniversary, its bold vision for a 22nd Century College, and why partnerships and purpose are key to changing the world—one student at a time. Highlights from the Conversation: * How Dallas College evolved from seven campuses to one unified system serving over 130,000 students. * What it means to build a “22nd Century College” that reimagines higher education for a changing world. * Why Dr. Lonon believes removing barriers like cost, childcare and food insecurity is key to student success. * Insights from the Global Mission Summit and how Dallas College is connecting education to purpose and global impact. * “We’re not just an institution — we’re a bridge to economic mobility and prosperity.” Connect with Dallas College: 🌐 dallascollege.edu 📱 Follow Dr. Lonon on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinlonon] | Instagram: @ChancellorLonon 💬 Like, subscribe and leave a review to let us know what you think! Guest: Dr. Justin Lonon, Chancellor of Dallas College Hosts: Shawn P. Williams & Ryan Trimble Producer: Zachary Thompson Presented by Allyn

Ben Leal and Data for Impact at The Addy Foundation

In this episode, hosts Ryan Trimble and Shawn P. Williams sit down with Ben Leal, President of the Addy Foundation, to explore how philanthropy is shaping North Texas and beyond.Ben shares his journey from government service to nonprofit leadership, and now to guiding one of Dallas’ most intentional family foundations. He opens up about: * The Addy Foundation’s mission – how its focus areas (education, healthcare, civic engagement, cultural competency, and social services) are driving impact across Dallas–Fort Worth. * Challenges facing nonprofits today – from fundraising uncertainty to the pressures of advocating in a polarized climate. * The power of data and storytelling – how nonprofits can balance analytics with mission delivery, and why a clear distinction between goals and outcomes matters. * Supporting small nonprofits – the Addy Foundation’s innovative approach to leveling the playing field for minority-led and grassroots organizations. * Keys to lasting donor relationships – why good stewardship, transparency, and thoughtful follow-up go further than flashy pitches. Interview begins @5:33 This conversation arrives just after North Texas Giving Day, a region-wide tradition that has become the single biggest day of giving for local nonprofits. Whether you’ve donated, volunteered, or spread the word, Ben’s insights offer inspiration on how to give back with impact and intention.Ben also shares candid advice for nonprofit leaders, board members, and fundraisers on how to stand out to funders and build long-term sustainability.Plus, Ryan and Shawn kick things off with some lighter talk—green lawns, mild Texas summers, and stepping up the soccer parent game.  Learn more about the Addy Foundation: addyfoundation.org [http://addyfoundation.org] Hosts: Shawn P. Williams & Ryan Trimble Producer: Zach Thompson

Building Dallas’ Future with Jamee Jolly of The Real Estate Council

Episode Summary: In this episode of Deconstructing Dallas, hosts Ryan Trimble and Shawn Williams sit down with Jamee Jolly, President & CEO of The Real Estate Council (TREC). From her early days leading the Greater Dallas Restaurant Association to her return to TREC, Jamie shares her journey, her vision for Dallas’ commercial real estate landscape and how the organization is shaping the future of our city. Interview Begins @6:14 We dive into: * Jamee’s career path through nonprofit leadership, chambers of commerce, and public policy. * How TREC is addressing Dallas’ biggest challenges in housing, zoning, and affordability. * The impact of community investments in neighborhoods like Mill City and the Dallas Catalyst Project. * Why Dallas continues to be a top destination for business, development, and opportunity. * What changes in zoning and development codes could mean for the city’s future growth. Along the way, Ryan and Shawn also celebrate Allyn Media’s recognition as a top women-owned business in North Texas and spotlight firm co-owner Jennifer Pascal’s recognition as one of Dallas’ most influential PR leaders. Resources & Links: * Learn more about The Real Estate Council → recouncil.com * Follow Jamee Jolly on LinkedIn for updates and insights Hosts: Shawn P. Williams & Ryan Trimble Producer: Zach Thompson

Driving Dallas Forward: Randall Bryant on Transit, Leadership, and Community Impact

Ryan Trimble and Shawn P. Williams return to the mic as summer winds down, reflecting on a mild Texas season, back-to-school transitions, and the role Walmart plays in community health with its back-to-school fairs. They also celebrate Dallas ISD’s significant progress in accountability ratings and highlight local successes across the city.The heart of this episode is a conversation with Randall Bryant, Vice Chair of the DART Board of Directors, political strategist, and newly elected member of the Democratic National Committee. From his Dallas roots in Hamilton Park to his extensive political career, Randall shares how his passion for policy and advocacy led him to one of the region’s most critical leadership roles. Interview Begins @10:20 Community and Leadership * Randall’s upbringing in Dallas and family legacy of civic engagement. * Founding of his political consulting firm, Politics United Marketing. * Service on numerous boards, including the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce. DART: Past, Present, Future * The origins of DART in 1983 and its 13-city membership. * Expansion milestones: the nation’s second-largest light rail system and the upcoming Silver Line rail project connecting to DFW Airport. * Financial challenges and balancing equity among member cities. Policy and Advocacy * Legislative battles in Austin and efforts to protect DART’s funding model. * Insights into cost allocation, service cuts, and ensuring reliable, affordable transportation for riders—many of whom are transit dependent. * Randall’s perspective on the importance of regional cooperation and the economic return of investing in public transit. Community Voices * Highlights from 16 public hearings and strong community input against service cuts. * A reminder that two-thirds of DART riders live at or below the poverty line, underscoring the system’s role as a lifeline, not just a convenience. Connect Learn more about DART: dart.org [https://dart.org] Follow Randall Bryant on social media: @RandallBryantTX