Learning From Leaders

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 o...

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 hi...

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 pionee...

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 thera...

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 val...

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...

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...

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. D...

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 nonprofi...

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 W...

Join us on this enlightening episode of the Learning from Leaders podcast as we explore the remarkable journey of Dr. Alexa Wilden, the distinguished 2024 Ho Din Award recipient from UT Southwestern. Just two days before her graduation, Alexa sat down with our host, Lili Clark, to discuss her transformative experiences through medical school, the personal meaning behind her accomplishments, and her anticipation for a future in Inte...

In the debut podcast episode of “Learning From Leaders,” guest host and member of The Cary Council, Erik Yohe sits down with two influential leaders, Kay Bailey Hutchison, former U.S. Senator and NATO Ambassador, and Robert Jordan, former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, to explore the duality of leadership. During their conversation, these two leaders share their unique insights on how their global roles have shaped their perspect...