<b>Interview Begins @6:50</b><br /><b>Episode Summary:</b><br />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.<br />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.<br />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.<br />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.<br /><br /><b>Highlights from the Conversation:</b><br />How the Bush Institute applies “timeless American values to today’s pressing issues” through research and policy work.<br />Why DFW succeeds not by being No. 1 in any single category but by being consistently good across the board in key economic drivers.<br />The biggest risks to Dallas’ continued growth — especially housing affordability and talent development.<br />How trade protectionism and populist policies uniquely impact Texas’ trade-driven economy.<br />Why employers must play a more active role in shaping the region’s workforce pipeline.<br />Cullum’s journey from investor to economist — and the mentors who changed his life and career direction.<br />Stories from surprise classroom visits by President Bush and what Cullum has learned from working closely with the Bush family.<br />Leadership advice for entrepreneurs: “Read massively. Ask questions. Treat people well. Be nimble.”<br /><br /><b>Learn more:</b> BushCenter.org<br /><br />🍽️ Cullum’s Favorite Dallas Spots<br /><ul><li>Shinsei</li><li>Fortune House</li><li>Kirin Court</li><li>Any place with great soup dumplings</li></ul>