Learning From Leaders

Charlie Neil of Dallas Trinity FC: Elevating Women’s Sports, Driving Growth, and Building Community

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, we sit down with Charlie Neil, President of Dallas Trinity FC, to discuss the rise of women’s soccer, the economic impact of sports in North Texas, and the leadership principles behind building a successful franchise.
Charlie shares thoughts on why North Texas is a soccer powerhouse, why investment in women’s sports is essential, and what it takes to create a sustainable, community-driven organization. He also highlights the role of UT Southwestern in player health, the importance of corporate & community partnerships, and how sports can drive economic growth in the region.
Tune in to hear how leadership, vision, and passion for the game are shaping the future of women’s soccer in North Texas.
Chapters & Timecodes:
00:00 – Introduction
Welcome to Learning From Leaders and introduction to Charlie Neil
Overview of Dallas Trinity FC’s mission and vision
04:42 – The Rise of Women’s Soccer & Why Dallas Was the Perfect Fit
Growth of women’s soccer and how Dallas has the largest youth girls’ soccer population in the U.S.
Why the city lacked a professional women’s team and how Trinity FC is filling that gap
05:49 – Why Dallas is a Soccer Hotbed & Its Economic Potential
The longstanding culture of soccer in North Texas and why Dallas is a natural fit for a professional team
How investing in sports drives economic impact, corporate engagement, and community growth
07:50 – Creating a Brand That Represents Dallas
How Trinity FC "owns Dallas" by focusing on the local culture
The importance of the Trinity River and Fair Park in shaping the club’s identity
12:13 – Choosing the Cotton Bowl: A Historic Home for a New Team
Why Trinity FC chose the Cotton Bowl as its home stadium
The logistics and benefits of playing in one of the most iconic venues in Texas
24:38 – Leadership & Investing in Player Health with UT Southwestern
How UT Southwestern partners with Trinity FC to provide top-tier sports medicine and injury prevention
The unique needs of female athletes and why investing in player wellness is critical
25:48 – Why Women’s Sports Need More Community Support
How fans and businesses can help women’s sports thrive
The importance of corporate sponsorships and fan engagement in building a successful team
27:49 – The Long-Term Vision for Women’s Soccer in Dallas
The need for better facilities, training environments, and investment
How Trinity FC is thinking about the next 20-30 years of growth
29:42 – Leadership Lessons from Professional Baseball & Business
How Charlie’s experience in pro baseball shaped his leadership style
Lessons from mentorship, team-building, and sports culture
40:09 – Giving Back to the Community & Inspiring the Next Generation
How Trinity FC is creating opportunities for young athletes
The impact of sports in uplifting local communities
42:00 – Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Charlie shares his hopes for the future of women’s soccer
How fans and businesses can get involved in supporting the team
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Episode Details:
Episode 3, Season 2
Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Guests:Charlie Neil | President of Dallas Trinity FChttps://www.dallastrinityfc.com/
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
 
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

From Slurpees to Streaming: James Keyes on Education, Leadership, AI, and Embracing Change

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, we sit down with Jim Keyes, former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, to discuss the power of education, embracing change, and the future of leadership in a rapidly evolving world. From growing up in a three-room shack with no running water to leading Fortune 500 companies, Jim shares how education transformed his life and why he believes lifelong learning is the key to success.
Jim shares his first-hand experience navigating disruptive change at Blockbuster and the looming event that would ultimately mean the end of the iconic brand. He shares lessons he learned from his time at 7-Eleven, and his vision for AI in education - including how students could one day step inside an operating room at UT Southwestern through immersive technology.
Additionally, Host Lili Clark and Jim talk about leadership, business innovation, the future of education, flying, sculpting, and more…this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
Listen now and follow our podcast for more inspiring conversations.
Show Notes:
Chapters:
01:04 – IntroductionHost Lili Clark introduces Learning From Leaders and welcomes Jim Keyes, a transformational business leader with a career spanning 7-Eleven, Blockbuster, and beyond.
02:14 – The Power of EducationJim shares how education took him from a three-room shack with no running water to the boardroom, and why he believes learning is the key to personal and professional transformation.
04:30 – Overcoming Adversity: Turning Struggles into StrengthsHow Jim’s challenging childhood built his resilience and shaped his perspective on embracing change.
07:14 – Lessons in Leadership from 7-ElevenJim reflects on his time at 7-Eleven, how a pivotal conversation changed his career, and the importance of convenience, innovation, and adapting to change.
08:26 – Embracing ChangeJim talks about how CEO stands for ‘Change Equals Opportunity.’
10:35 – Blockbuster’s Digital DisruptionJim discusses his experience leading Blockbuster during the rise of streaming, what decisions worked, what he would have done differently, and how the 2008 financial crisis altered Blockbuster’s trajectory.
19:30 – Business and Social Good Can Go Hand-in-HandWhy shareholder value goes beyond the bottom line. Jim talks about corporate philanthropy and shares how Education is Freedom, the nonprofit he founded, is making a lasting impact.
26:00 – The Future of Education and AI’s RoleJim presents his vision for the future of learning, explaining how AI and immersive technology could revolutionize education and workforce development.
27:03 – UT Southwestern and the Future of Medical TrainingHow AI and technology could take students inside an operating room at UT Southwestern, offering a next-level, hands-on learning experience.
31:20 – Overcoming Fear Through KnowledgeJim discusses the link between fear and knowledge, and how learning can help leaders and individuals tackle uncertainty and change.
38:50 – The Yoda Philosophy: Overcoming Fear to Achieve SuccessJim shares insights from ancient philosophy and Star Wars, explaining how fear leads to failure, but knowledge leads to hope and success.
44:09 –  Rapid Fire
46:00 – Flying with an Apollo AstronautA once-in-a-lifetime story: Jim flew with Charlie Duke, the Apollo 16 astronaut, and even landed on NASA’s shuttle strip.
47:45 – AI’s Potential to Revolutionize EducationHow Jim is leveraging AI to help shape the future of learning, and why business leaders need to invest in education today.
48:47 – Closing Thoughts & Call to ActionJim shares his final leadership advice: “The Future Is in Your Hands”—so embrace learning, adaptability, and change.
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Episode Details:
Episode 2, Season 2
Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Guests:Jim Keyes - https://www.jameswkeyes.com/ | www.educationisfreedom.com
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
 
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

Unraveling Mysteries & Breaking Barriers - Rena Pederson talks Leadership and The King of Diamonds

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, we sit down with acclaimed journalist and Pulitzer Prize-nominated author Rena Pederson. Known for her trailblazing career and fearless storytelling, Rena shares the fascinating journey behind her latest book, The King of Diamonds: The Search for the Elusive Texas Jewel Thief, a gripping true-crime story about an elusive Dallas jewel thief.
She also reflects on breaking barriers as a pioneering female journalist, offers timeless leadership lessons, and discusses how storytelling connects communities. From interviewing global figures like Aung San Suu Kyi, Laura Bush, Julia Child, and Fidel Castro to investigating an unsolved Dallas mystery, Rena’s insights are both inspiring and thought-provoking.
Subscribe now to hear from Rena and other remarkable leaders driving change in their communities.
Show Notes:
Chapters:
00:50 – Introduction: Meet Rena Pederson and discover her illustrious career.
07:36 – Breaking Barriers in Journalism: Rena’s experiences as a pioneering female journalist.
13:00 – The King of Diamonds: The six-year journey of trying to identify Dallas’s most elusive jewel thief.
25:40 – Leadership in Journalism: Reflections on character, courage, and the changing media landscape.
30:38 – Mentorship and Community Impact: Advocating for diversity and fostering connections.
37:22 – Rapid-Fire Questions: Rena’s favorite memories, interviews, and inspirations.
43:30 – What’s Next: A sneak peek at her upcoming projects and closing thoughts.
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Episode Details:
Episode 1, Season 2
Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Guests:Rena Pederson - https://renapederson.com/
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
 
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

From Coffee to Cancer Breakthroughs: Russell Hayward’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Journey

In this inspiring episode of Learning from Leaders, we sit down with Russell Hayward, a serial entrepreneur whose ventures span coffee culture, global branding, and leading-edge cancer research. Russell shares how his frustration with mediocre coffee led to the creation of Ascension, a Dallas staple redefining community spaces. He then takes us on his unexpected leap into biotech with Etira, a company advancing groundbreaking therapies for therapy-resistant cancers.
Discover how Russell’s passion for innovation, team-building, and community impact has guided his career across industries and continents—from working in advertising in Australia to producing major music events in the U.S., and now leading a transformative effort in Dallas’s growing life sciences ecosystem. Russell also reflects on his leadership philosophy, lessons learned from his mentors, and the importance of giving back to future entrepreneurs.
Show Notes:
Learn more about Etira
Learn more about Ascension
Subscribe for more inspiring stories of leadership and community impact on Learning from Leaders!
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Episode Details:
Episode 9, Season 1
Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Guests:Russell Hayward, CEO of Etira
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
 
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

From Military Valor to Civic Vision: Michael Rodriguez on Veteran Leadership Following His Service

In this impactful episode of Learning from Leaders, Mason Smith sits down with Michael "Rod" Rodriguez, a U.S. Army Special Forces veteran and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation. Rod shares his journey from over two decades in military service to now leading the effort to create a national memorial in Washington, D.C., honoring those who served in the Global War on Terrorism. This episode dives deep into the values of service, resilience, and legacy as Rod reflects on leadership lessons learned in combat, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and his advocacy for veterans’ mental health. Discover how art became a source of healing for Rod and hear about the incredible milestones the Foundation has achieved. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates dedication and the power of community to honor the past while building a hopeful future.
Episode Details:
Episode 8, Season 1
Host: Mason Smith | Member, The Cary Council; Vice President, Actium Group
Guest: Michael “Rod” Rodriguez | President & CEO, The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

Leading Through Adversity: Chief David O. Brown on Resilience, Trust, and Community Impact

In this episode of Learning from Leaders, host Lili Clark sits down with Chief David O. Brown, an iconic figure in law enforcement with a remarkable career spanning leadership roles in the Dallas and Chicago Police Departments. Chief Brown shares his deeply personal journey, beginning with his return to Dallas, where he reflects on the significance of his hometown and his leadership evolution in public safety. He dives into pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the challenges of handling crises, fostering resilience, and his approach to building trust between law enforcement and the community. Chief Brown also discusses his transition to a new leadership role as COO of the Loncar, Lyon, and Jenkins law firm, emphasizing the importance of investing in people and creating a culture of care. Listeners will gain valuable insights into leadership, personal vulnerability, and how effective communication can inspire positive change. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the lessons learned from decades of public service, making it a must-listen for aspiring leaders and community advocates. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, trust, and the lasting impact of mentorship and leadership.
 
Episode Details:
Episode 7, Season 1
Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Guests:Chief David O. Brown, COO of the Loncar, Lyon, Jenkins Law Firm
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
 
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

Dr. Chris Herrera on Breakthroughs in Placenta Research and Early-Stage Research Funding

In this episode of Learning from Leaders, host Lili Clark sits down with Dr. Chris Herrera, assistant professor at UT Southwestern’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Herrera shares her groundbreaking work in placenta research, initially funded by The Cary Council’s Early-Stage Research Grant, which supports innovative ideas from emerging medical researchers. Listeners will gain insight into why her research is vital for advancing maternal-fetal health, the challenges of studying the placenta, and the critical role of philanthropic support in early-stage medical research. Dr. Herrera also opens up about her leadership roles at UT Southwestern and Parkland Hospital, her journey as a “DocStar,” and how she balances her academic, clinical, and mentorship responsibilities. Tune in to hear her vision for the future of maternal healthcare and the exciting developments in the field.
Episode Details:
Episode 6, Season 1 Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies | https://www.lydahillphilanthropies.org/
Guests: Dr. Christina Herrera, Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern | https://utswmed.org/doctors/christina-herrera/
Rising Star Award: https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/ctplus/stories/2023/lce23-rising-star-award.html
DocStar Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIp1R6ZV8R0
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation | https://swmedical.org/
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
 
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

Building Resilient Futures: Education and Mental Health Insights with Dr. Hill and Dr. Keller

At the dynamic intersection of education and mental health are two experts who we are thrilled to have on the Learning From Leaders podcast: Dr. Joan Buchanan Hill and Dr. Andy Keller. Dr. Hill, Head of School at the Lamplighter School in Dallas, Texas, shares her insights on fostering resilience and emotional growth among young learners, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced and supportive educational environment. Dr. Keller, President and CEO of the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, discusses the evolving landscape of mental health policy and the critical role of early intervention and support systems in schools. Together, they explore the challenges facing today’s youth, the impact of technology, and the vital need for community and parental involvement. This episode is a thought-provoking conversation on how we can better equip our children and communities for a healthier, more connected future. Tune in to gain valuable insights from leaders who are shaping the future of education and mental health in North Texas and beyond.
Episode Details:
Episode 5, Season 1
Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Guests:Joan Buchanan Hill, Ed.D. | Catherine M. Rose Head of School, The Lamplighter SchoolAndy Keller, Ph.D | President & CEO, Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
NOTE: A correction to Dr. Keller’s response during the rapid-fire segment. The book is called Killing Commendatore: A Novel (https://a.co/d/5bwBsEW)
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

Nicole Small and Matt Crommett on the Innovative Impact of Lyda Hill Philanthropies and Pegasus Park

In this episode of the Learning from Leaders podcast, host Lili Clark sits down with Nicole Small, CEO of Lyda Hill Philanthropies and LH Capital, and Matt Crommett, Managing Director at the organization. They dive into the transformative project of Pegasus Park, a 26-acre future-focused campus dedicated to life sciences, biotech, and social innovation. Nicole and Matt share insights into the unique blend of for-profit and nonprofit activities at Pegasus Park, the collaborative environment it fosters, and its impact on the Dallas biotech ecosystem. They also discuss the visionary philanthropy of Lyda Hill and how she’s using her capital to drive change and spark innovation in North Texas. Learn about the significant win of Pegasus Park being named as the home of ARPA-H’s Customer Experience Hub and how the growing biotech ecosystem in North Texas is boosting the broader economy, attracting talent, and driving forward groundbreaking research. Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, collaboration, and philanthropy.
Southwestern Medical Foundation privacy policy: https://swmedical.org/privacy-policy/
 
Episode Details:
Episode 4, Season 1
 
Host:
Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies
 
Guests:
Nicole Small | CEO, Lyda Hill Philanthropies & LH Capital
Matt Crommett | Managing Director, Lyda Hill Philanthropies & LH Capital
 
Producer:
Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
 
Videography:
Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
 
Resources:
Pegasus Park: https://pegasuspark.com/
The Cary Council: www.swmedical.org/carycouncil
Southwestern Medical Foundation: www.swmedical.org
Lyda Hill Philanthropies: https://www.lydahillphilanthropies.org
 
Disclaimer: The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented. The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

Economics Expert Cullum Clark on Innovation Districts and the Economic Boom in North Texas

Join host Lili Clark on a fascinating journey into the economic transformation of North Texas in this episode of the Learning From Leaders Podcast. We do a deep dive into ‘Innovation Districts’ and how they’re fostering a perfect ecosystem for entrepreneurship. Our special guest, Cullum Clark—Director of the George W. Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative—shares his expert insights on the booming growth of the Dallas-Fort Worth area and the significant role innovation districts play in shaping its future.
We'll explore why North Texas is a magnet for economic development and how innovation districts contribute to creating a vibrant ecosystem for businesses and communities. Cullum will highlight the strategic planning behind these districts and their impact on the local and national economy. Additionally, he will discuss his dual roles as a public policy leader and an educator, shedding light on why community leadership and philanthropy are pivotal for sustaining growth.
Whether you're a young leader eager to understand the dynamics of economic growth or someone curious about the future of North Texas, this episode provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. So tune in and get inspired as we unravel the complexities of innovation districts and discover what makes North Texas an exciting hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Episode Details:
Episode 3, Season 1
Host: Lili Clark | Programming Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies (https://www.lydahillphilanthropies.org/)
Guest: Culllum Clark, Ph.D | Director, Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative, George W. Bush Institute
Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation
Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com
Resources: Eds and Meds Report mentioned in this episode: https://www.bushcenter.org/publications/engines-of-opportunity
The Cary Council: www.swmedical.org/carycouncil
Southwestern Medical Foundation: www.swmedical.org
_______________________________
Disclaimer:
The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 
Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.
The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.
Southwestern Medical Foundation privacy policy: https://swmedical.org/privacy-policy/