Former Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Joe Straus talks about his family's political history in Texas and his own entry into politics.  He also discusses the decision he and his wife made to join a Black Lives Matters march in the Terrell Hills community of San Antonio. Speaker Straus also talks about his organization Texas Forever Forward and their work to produce better policy outcomes.Ryan and Shawn also revel in recording their first episode together (in person) since March 2020. Bro hugs all around.

Former Speaker Joe Straus and moving Texas Forever Forward

Shawn Williams and Ryan Trimble deconstruct politics, government, sports, entertainment current events, all things Dallas and all things Texas. An Allyn Media production.Deconstructing Dallas has garnered multiple awards. The podcast was internationally recognized with a 2021 Hermes Creative Award and a 2021 Communicator Award, and was part of Allyn Media's work that helped the firm win D CEO's Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards 2021 for Equity Leadership, out of fellow finalists the Boston Consulting Group, Cardinal Health Sonexus Access and Patient Support, Texas Instrument and Dallas Mavericks.

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In this episode of Deconstructing Dallas, Shawn and Ryan are joined by Heather McGhee, an expert in economic policy research and the author of the book "The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together." Heather discusses her journey exploring the intersection of racism and economics in America, highlighting the impact of racism on public goods, wages, and inequality.Heather reflects on her time at Demos, an organization focused on economic justice, and how her thinking on race and racism evolved during her tenure there. She also discusses the adaptation of her book into a Spotify podcast by Higher Ground, the production company of Barack and Michelle Obama, as well as the upcoming theater adaptation in Dallas.Shawn and Ryan also talk about the upcoming Banned Book Festival at Bishop Arts Theatre Center, inspired by "The Sum of Us," and Heather's thoughts on the book being used as inspiration for a play festival. They discuss the role of arts organizations like Bishop Arts Theater Centre in addressing inequality and promoting social change.Shawn and Ryan also reflect on the 2024 Dallas Bond Campaign and the passing of West Dallas community activist Raul Reyes Jr.

Prospering Together: Heather McGhee on Racism and Economics

In this episode of Deconstructing Dallas, Shawn and Ryan sit down with Sam Thompson, CEO of the Circle Ten Council Boy Scouts of America. Sam shares his insights into scouting and its impact on character development and citizenship training. He discusses the transition of scouting to include girls and the importance of inclusivity in scouting programs.The conversation then shifts to the rich history of Camp Wisdom in Southern Dallas, which celebrated its 100th anniversary last year. Sam provides a glimpse into what makes the camp special and how it has contributed to the community.Shawn and Ryan also delve into how individuals can get involved in scouting and the resources available for those interested in joining. Sam offers valuable information on scouting opportunities and how listeners can connect with their local scouting council.Guest: Sam Thompson, CEO of Circle Ten Council Boy Scouts of AmericaWebsite: circleten.orgInstagram: circletencouncil

Scouting Forward: A Conversation with Sam Thompson

Ryan and Shawn catch up with Nicole Brewer and Ross Mulford of Classic Whimsy, the nation's leading e-commerce provider of classic children's clothing. Nicole shares about the history of the company, and the recent rebranding and Ross dives into the growing e-commerce landscape in North Texas. To learn more about Classic Whimsy visit www.classicwhimsy.com.

Timeless and Charming: Classic Whimsy Joins The Show

Tens and tens of listeners rejoice! Deconstructing Dallas has made it to 100 episodes. From politicians to artists, activists to educators, Shawn and Ryan have interviewed a diverse slate of guests who have impacted Dallas, Texas, the U.S., and the world.  This show marks the official kickoff of the podcast’s 7th season and the first recording of 2024. The guys look back at some of their most memorable episodes, including interviews with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks attorney Fred Gray, former Texas House Speaker Joe Straus, and PepsiCo business leader Rebecca Acuna. They also recall some of the lowlights, sharing a few of the outtakes that remained on the cutting room floor (so to speak).  And there are two very special guests: Linda Williams and Jill Trimble aka the Deconstructing Dallas Moms Club. Shawn and Ryan’s mothers discuss their favorite guests, favorite shows, and favorite parts of their sons’ podcast.  So, here’s to a prosperous 2024, an unforgettable 7th season, and 100 more episodes!

Happy 100th! Milestone Episode Launches New Season

Shawn and Ryan catch up with SMU's Director of Athletics Rick Hart. Rick shares about SMU's investment in facilities, winning seasons for SMU football and other sports, as well as the exciting news of SMU's move to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Former Speaker Joe Straus and moving Texas Forever Forward

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