Deconstructing Dallas

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.

Deconstructing Dallas is a news podcast hosted by Deconstructing Dallas, with 100 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Deconstructing Dallas hosts Deconstructing Dallas, a news show with 100 episodes published.

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  Deconstructing Dallas

  Built for the Best Years With Cory Alder

  Jun 8, 202641 min

  Listen to this episode on your favorite platform Apple Podcast | Spotify | Spreaker | iHeart | Podchaser | Podcast App | ListenNotes This week on “Deconstructing Dallas,” Ryan Trimble and Shawn Williams welcome Corey Alder — President of Nexus Development Corporation and the force behind Vivante Luxury Senior Living — coming soon to Turtle Creek. Corey shares how a California developer fell in love with Dallas, secured a premier site on Turtle Creek Boulevard and set out to redefine what senior living can look like for one of the most accomplished generations in the city. The conversation covers:   Why Dallas was the obvious choice and why the Turtle Creek site was worth fighting for twice How Vivante flips the script on senior living The culinary philosophy that has residents choosing dinner at Vivante over going out A staffing and care model built for stability What to expect when the sales office opens this fall and how to get on the interest list The episode opens with a Texas spring reality check. Shawn recounts a harrowing hail storm that totaled his car and took out his roof, with a timely reminder to know your storm closet when Threat Level 3 rolls in. Ryan and Shawn close out with a FIFA World Cup preview: nine matches coming to AT&T Stadium, Fan Fest at Fair Park and Shawn’s early pick of Spain (with a watchful eye on Argentina.) Whether you’re thinking about your parents, planning ahead for yourself or just curious about what’s rising out of the ground on Turtle Creek — this episode is worth your time. Key Takeaway: “We want them to stop worrying. We got you — and you’re going to live your life the way you’re used to, with no downgrade.” “Deconstructing Dallas” is a podcast exploring the people, ideas and stories shaping the city.

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  Deconstructing Dallas

  Mahiri Takai on Branding, Fatherhood & Building Something That Matters

  Mar 19, 202630 min

  Listen to this episode on your favorite platform Apple Podcast | Spotify | Spreaker | iHeart | Podchaser | Podcast App | Player FM | ListenNotes 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.

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  Deconstructing Dallas

  15 Years of Lockhart Smokehouse & Dallas Momentum

  Feb 17, 202628 min

  Listen to this episode on your favorite platform Apple Podcast | Spotify | Spreaker | iHeart | Podchaser | Podcast App | Player FM | ListenNotes 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.

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  Deconstructing Dallas

  Chief Daniel Comeaux on Trust, Training and Recruiting the Next Generation of DPD

  Jan 12, 202624 min

  Listen to this episode on your favorite platform Apple Podcast | Spotify | Spreaker | iHeart | Podchaser | Podcast App | Player FM | YouTube 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/

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  Deconstructing Dallas

  Jingle & Mingle: Holiday Happy Hour (with Jennifer Sanders, Tennell Atkins & Warren von Eschenbach)

  Dec 25, 202530 min

  Listen to this episode on your favorite platform Apple Podcast | Spotify | Spreaker | iHeart | Podchaser | Podcast App | PlayerFM | ListenNotes 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.

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