This week on “Deconstructing Dallas,” Ryan Trimble and Shawn Williams sit down with Mahiri Takai — creator, branding strategist and founder of “Cook, Dad, Cook.”

Mahiri shares his journey from South Dallas to working alongside Jimmy Fallon and Bozoma Saint John, and how that experience helped shape his approach to branding, storytelling and business.

The conversation dives into:

• The difference between branding and marketing — and why it matters
• How “Cook, Dad, Cook” was born from real-life fatherhood and healing
• Lessons learned from national television and high-pressure creative environments
• Why execution beats perfection for aspiring creators
• What’s next for Season 2, including travel and community impact

The episode also highlights a powerful local moment — Walmart’s disaster relief activation in Dallas — and the importance of preparedness during severe weather season.

Mahiri also previews his upcoming art exhibit, “Becoming,” a deeply personal project exploring growth, adversity and transformation.

Whether you're building a brand, launching a creative idea or looking for inspiration — this episode delivers both strategy and heart.

Key Takeaway:
“Do it. Right or wrong — just do it.”
🎙️ “Deconstructing Dallas” is a podcast exploring the people, ideas and stories shaping the city.

Interview begins @ 7:05

In this on-site episode of “Deconstructing Dallas,” Shawn and Ryan head to Oak Cliff to celebrate a major milestone — 15 years of Lockhart Smokehouse.

Before diving into brisket, the hosts cover what’s happening around Dallas: momentum at the Dallas Regional Chamber with new leader Brad Cheves, Winter Olympics, Vista Bank Academy’s Banking & Breakfast featuring State Senator Royce West and a reminder that early voting is underway.

Then, it’s all about Texas barbecue.

Sitting down inside Lockhart Smokehouse, Ryan and Shawn talk with owners Jeff and Jill Bergus, along with longtime team member and Oak Cliff native Gabe Orduna, about what it takes to survive — and thrive — in the Dallas restaurant scene.

From post oak smoke and brisket philosophy to surviving COVID thanks to neighborhood loyalty, the conversation highlights why Lockhart isn’t just a restaurant — it’s part of Oak Cliff’s identity.
They also share anniversary specials, celebrity sightings and what 15 years in business really teaches you about consistency, community, and customer service.

Interview begins @8:23 

Hosts Ryan Trimble and Shawn Williams return with another lively episode of “Deconstructing Dallas” — featuring a special on-location interview with Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux at Dallas Police Headquarters.Before the interview, Ryan and Shawn kick things off with their signature mix of fun, honesty and sports talk — including Shawn’s confession about multitasking through a Chelsea match during work hours (only when they win, of course). From World Cup excitement to youth soccer booming in North Texas, the guys set the stage for a timely conversation about public safety and what it takes to serve one of America’s largest cities.Then, it’s time for the main event: Chief Comeaux shares his story, his leadership philosophy and what’s next for Dallas policing — including how the department is improving recruitment, expanding training facilities and rebuilding trust across neighborhoods

Learn more about Dallas Police Department:https://www.dallaspolice.net/

It’s the Holiday Edition of Deconstructing Dallas, recorded live at the Allyn Holiday Happy Hour from the Allyn Worldwide Headquarters at Turtle Creek Village. Ryan Trimble and Shawn Williams celebrate the season with local holiday traditions, behind-the-scenes party moments, and quick-hit conversations with three standout Dallas leaders: Jennifer Sanders (Dallas Innovation Alliance), former Mayor Pro Tem Tennel Atkins, and Warren von Eschenbach (President of UNT Dallas).

Interviews begins @ 7:50

Jennifer Sanders (Dallas Innovation Alliance)
Jennifer shares what’s next for DIA after celebrating its 10th birthday, and digs into why AI literacy and accessibility are essential—especially for communities that risk being left behind. She also gives her favorite hidden outdoor gem: Twelve Hills Nature Preserve.

Former Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Tennel Atkins
Fresh off leaving City Hall, Atkins reflects on 16 years of impact: public safety, economic development, revitalization projects, and why the Law Enforcement Training Center is so important for Dallas’ future. Also: his favorite place to eat in Dallas? Home.

Warren von Eschenbach (President, UNT Dallas)
The newly appointed president shares his journey from football and philosophy to public service and higher ed leadership. He explains why UNT Dallas plays a unique role as an anchor institution for Southern Dallas—and highlights the brand-new $100M STEM building, already positioned to expand healthcare workforce programs through partnerships across the region.

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

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 | 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

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
Hosts: Shawn P. Williams & Ryan Trimble
Producer: Zach Thompson

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

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
Follow Randall Bryant on social media: @RandallBryantTX

Interview Begins @ 8:26
In this high-energy episode, hosts Ryan Trimble and Shawn P. Williams sit down with longtime friend and SMU legend Flip Croft Caderao — founder of Cali Sober, the THC-infused mocktail brand shaking up the beverage world.Flip takes us on his unconventional journey from studying theater to running a marketing agency, diving into the cannabis industry and ultimately creating a legal, alcohol-free alternative that’s winning over consumers nationwide.

In this Episode:

• The Cali Sober Lifestyle – what it is and why more people are embracing it over alcohol
• Cannabis 101 – breaking down the differences between hemp, THC, CBD, and marijuana
• Texas Politics & THC – how current legislation could reshape the hemp industry
• Health & Safety – the benefits and misconceptions about cannabis products
• Cultural Shifts – why Gen Z is drinking less and exploring new recreational options

From legislative intrigue to lifestyle trends, this episode delivers an insider’s look at a fast-growing industry — along with Flip’s trademark humor and authenticity.

📍 Episode Highlights:

• “Cannabis has killed the same number of people as unicorns this year: zero.” – Flip Caderao
• Why THC drinks are outpacing craft beer and hard seltzers
• The role of alcohol distributors in the hemp beverage boom
• How shifting social norms are changing the way we party