Episode 10: Heath Mello-Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce

Pillars of Progress: Adrian Dowell-UNO Athletic Director

What does it take to run a successful Division I athletic program in the modern era of college sports? In this episode of the Pillars of Progress Podcast, we sit down with Adrian Dowell, the Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics at the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO). Adrian pulls back the curtain on how UNO Athletics serves as a massive driver for community growth, student enrollment, and economic development in the Omaha area. Adrian breaks down the chaotic, fast-changing landscape of college sports, from navigating the House case settlement and NIL to managing the transfer portal. He also shares exclusive updates on UNO’s massive $55 million training facility and baseball and softball clubhouse at Maverick Park. Whether you are a Mavs fan, a sports business enthusiast, or curious about the future of the NCAA, this conversation is packed with masterclass insights on what it takes to thrive as a mid-major program.

Pillars of Progress: Tre Brashear-Lozier Foundation

The mission of the Lozier Foundation, as shared by Tre Brashear on this episode of the Pillars of Progress Podcast, is rooted in the philosophy of "leveling the playing field". Rather than simply meeting basic needs, the foundation seeks to provide individuals with the education, income, and tools necessary to control their own destinies and enjoy true freedom of choice. A primary example of this is the development of the North High Stadium and the Butler-Gast YMCA. For over a century, North High lacked its own field; by collaborating with the YMCA, the foundation is creating a community hub that fosters a sense of pride and equity for North Omaha students. This commitment to the next generation continues at the Nelson Mandela School, where the foundation uses innovative methods like the Spalding reading program, year-round schooling, and violin lessons to close achievement gaps for disadvantaged youth. Beyond education, the foundation addresses the economic hurdles of affordable housing by purchasing a $40 million bond to accelerate projects that would otherwise be financially unfeasible. They also support critical, often overlooked gaps in the social safety net, such as the Diaper Bank, which provides essential hygiene products not covered by public assistance. From founding the Maha Music Festival to quietly funding civic improvements, Tre describes a legacy of philanthropy that prioritizes meaningful impact over public recognition.

Episode 10: Heath Mello-Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce

How does a 133-year-old organization stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing economy?  In this episode of Pillars of Progress, host Travis Justice sits down with Heath Mello, President & CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, to discuss the bold vision for the City of Omaha's future.   From tackling the "brain drain" and the war for talent to the transformative power of the new modern streetcar, Heath breaks down the strategic initiatives moving the needle for the Omaha region. Whether you’re a local business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about how a city grows, this deep dive into the "Grow the Good Life" philosophy is a must-listen.   www.mclconstruction.com

Episode 9: Jaymes Sime-Child Saving Institute

On this episode of the Pillars of Progress Podcast, host Travis Justice sits down with Jaymes Sime, President and CEO of the Child Saving Institute, for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, growth, and the evolving needs of children and families in our community.   If you’ve driven along Dodge Street in Omaha, you’ve likely noticed the major expansion and renovation at Child Saving Institute. Jaymes explains why this project was about much more than updating aging facilities—it was about preparing CSI to meet today’s standards of care while expanding services in behavioral health, early childhood education, and youth shelter programs. The goal: creating spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and trauma-informed for the children, teens, and families who walk through the doors.   Jaymes also breaks down a question many people still ask: What exactly does Child Saving Institute do? With more than 133 years of service, CSI has grown into a multi-service organization supporting children as young as six weeks old through young adults and families navigating complex challenges. From outpatient therapy and early childhood education to youth shelter services and support for teen and young parents, CSI’s mission remains centered on children and families—delivered in many different ways.   The conversation also dives into CSI’s recent merger with Children’s Square in Council Bluffs, a move that significantly expanded the organization’s size and impact. Jaymes shares what went into the due diligence, the leadership challenges of rapid growth, and what it means to nearly double an operating budget while staying grounded in mission and culture.   One of the most powerful moments comes when Jaymes shares his own story—growing up with a single mother, experiencing housing insecurity, and benefiting from nonprofit services firsthand. Those experiences shaped his passion for service, leadership, and empathy, and they continue to influence how he leads today.   This episode of Pillars of Progress is a thoughtful look at nonprofit leadership, community impact, and what it truly takes to build systems that support children and families—not just for today, but for generations to come.

Episode 8: Jaime Casap-A Culture Of Innovation

In this episode of the Pillars of Progress Podcast, Travis Justice sits down with Jaime Casap — former Chief Education Evangelist at Google and a leading global voice on innovation, culture, and the future of learning and work. Jaime spent more than 15 years at Google helping shape digital transformation in education and business. Today, he works with companies and institutions around the world to build disciplined cultures of innovation — not through buzzwords, perks, or slogans, but through curiosity, iteration, and leadership that embraces constant change.   In this conversation, Jaime and Travis dive into: • What culture really means in an organization • Why true innovation requires discipline — not chaos • How failure isn't failure… It's an iteration • The role of leadership in shaping and protecting culture • Lessons from Google's early days and the evolution of its culture • Why hiring for fit and curiosity matters more than degrees or test scores • The fast-moving impact of AI, and why staying current is a full-time job • How meditation and self-awareness shape personal and professional growth • And yes — the story behind Jaime’s famous hair, and why Travis never had a chance   Whether you're leading a company, building a team, or just thinking about how to navigate change in your own work and life, this episode delivers insight, humor, and a fresh perspective on what it really takes to innovate. Watch, learn, and subscribe for more conversations that fuel progress, leadership, and growth.