Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? Lessons from your Local Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners

Brianna Jovahn
  • 5.0 (25)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Ever wonder how Dallas’s most successful brands actually got built? What's Good goes behind the scenes with local founders to uncover the raw stories and specific strategies they used to grow in the DFW market. Whether you’re building in 'Big D' or scaling a business elsewhere, these raw stories of resilience and innovation offer a blueprint for any entrepreneur driven to move forward. In each episode, you’ll learn answers to questions like: • What’s it like to be an entrepreneur in Dallas? • How do Dallas creatives and entrepreneurs build their brands? • What are the challenges and rewards of running a business in Dallas? • What advice do local entrepreneurs have for starting a business? • How can I find inspiration from successful business owners? • What are the common traits of successful entrepreneurs? • How does the Dallas business community support local innovation? • What are some practical tips for networking and growth? • How do business owners in Dallas stay resilient through challenges? • What unique opportunities exist for Dallas creatives and business owners? • What resources are available for the Dallas local community to build a successful business? Don't forget to Follow, Share, Rate, and Review!

  1. 6d ago ·  Bonus

    How to Build a For-Profit Social Impact Business with Mallory Martin (Founder of Mended)

    How can a for-profit business drive global social impact without relying on non-profit donations? Mended founder and social impact entrepreneur Mallory Martin shows how commercial businesses can create sustainable, above-living-wage jobs for survivor artisans in India through ethically crafted home textiles. In this episode of Dallas, Texas: What's Good, host Brianna Jovahn sits down with Mallory Martin to explore her transition from corporate sports and International Justice Mission (IJM) to building an East Dallas brand rooted in purpose. Mallory breaks down how block-printed table linens power ethical job creation, how to turn big ideas into daily execution, and the multi-layered meaning behind the name Mended. Episode Timestamps; [00:00:00]- Episode Teaser & Introduction to Dallas, Texas: What's Good [00:00:52] - Meet Mallory Martin: East Dallas Mom & Social Impact Entrepreneur [00:01:25] - What is a "Social Impact Entrepreneur"? [00:02:05] - Career Transition: From Sports Sponsorships & Non-Profits to Business Owner [00:04:07] - Discerning Your Calling & Recognizing Your Founder Wiring [00:06:31] - How to Turn a Big Idea into Execution (Without Overwhelm) [00:08:49] - Stress Management: Pickleball & The Daily Practice of Stillness [00:11:00] - Releasing Heavy Burdens: Lessons from IJM Founder Gary Haugen [00:12:21] - The Birth of Mended: Why a For-Profit Model Can Change the World [00:13:10] - Partnering with Survivor Artisans in India & Bonded Labor Rescue [00:14:00] - The Art of Centuries-Old Block Printing & Ethical Table Linens [00:15:40] - Stair-Stepping to Full-Time Entrepreneurship & Overcoming Rejection[ [00:18:35] - Entering Tabletop & Home Decor with Zero Design Background [00:19:09] - Why Product Excellence Beats a "Pity Buy" [00:19:58] - The Multi-Layered Meaning Behind the Name Mended [00:21:21] - How Every Purchase Empowers Artisans & Where to Find Mended Guest DetailsMallory Martin is a social impact entrepreneur and founder of Mended, a purpose-driven business focused on creating meaningful impact through its work and designs. Her background in nonprofit work shaped her approach to entrepreneurship and continues to influence the mission behind Mended. Connect with Mallory Martin: Website: www.mended.coInstagram: @mended_co Want to learn more about Mallory’s work and the story behind Mended? Visit www.mended.co and follow @mended_co to explore the brand and its social impact. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, share it with someone who would enjoy Mallory’s story, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue highlighting entrepreneurs and the meaningful work happening in our community. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    How to Build a For-Profit Social Impact Business with Mallory Martin (Founder of Mended)

  2. Sep 21

    Media Content Day Recap & What’s Next for DFW Creators | S11 Finale

    In this recap episode of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good?, Brianna wraps up a powerful three-episode Media Content Day season featuring Leah Abasolo, Coach T, and attorney Hunter Beiderman. Brianna shares the behind-the-scenes story of how she and Marian collaborated to create a Media Content Day at Business HQ in Dallas, giving local business owners the opportunity to capture podcast interviews, headshots, and other content they could use to grow their visibility. She also revisits some of the key topics from the season, including nonprofit development, hormones and wellness, and criminal record clearing. Looking ahead, Brianna shares plans for a podcast and media space tour designed to help local business owners discover recording studios, event spaces, and other resources available right in their own backyard. The episode also previews what’s coming next, including coverage of the Modern Day Wife event and conversations with even more Dallas-area business owners. Key Takeaways A behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration that brought Media Content Day to lifeHighlights from Leah Abasolo’s conversation about nonprofits and creating a business the right wayInsights from Coach T on hormones, fitness, and wellnessHunter Beiderman’s perspective on criminal law and clearing cases from your recordHow podcasting and media content can help business owners build visibilityA look at the local media spaces, recording studios, and event venues available to Dallas entrepreneursWhat’s coming next for Dallas, Texas: What’s Good?, including new business owner spotlights and upcoming events Featured Guests Leah AbasoloCoach THunter Beiderman Did you miss the Media Content Day season? Go back and listen to the full conversations with Leah, Coach T, and Hunter. Sign up for the Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? newsletter and visit the website for upcoming episodes, events, and podcasting resources. Subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with another business owner, and leave a review to help support the platform. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Media Content Day Recap & What’s Next for DFW Creators | S11 Finale

  3. Sep 14

    Why a Dismissed Case is Still on Your Record (and How to Erase It) with Hunter Biederman

    In this episode, we sit down with criminal defense attorney Hunter Beiderman to discuss his journey into criminal law and his commitment to helping clients navigate difficult legal situations. Hunter shares how mentorship and community shaped his career, what clients can expect when seeking legal help, and how the expungement process can offer a fresh start. The conversation also explores career pivots, changes in marijuana possession laws, and the importance of having informed legal guidance when facing a criminal charge. Episode Chapters;00:00 Arrests That Never Disappear 00:52 Meet Hunter Biederman 01:36 Inspired by the show, Matlock 02:47 Mentors and Giving Back 03:33 What Clients Really Want 04:44 Why Records Stay Visible 06:13 Expungement Barriers 08:51 Texas Record Clearing Site 10:19 Making It Client Friendly 11:11 Portal and Pizza Tracker 12:29 Case Status Portal 12:44 Why Expunctions Cost 13:52 Petitions Must Be Perfect 15:14 Scaling With Volume And AI 17:15 Pivoting To Serve Clients 18:19 Texas THC Felony Trap 21:39 Free Advice And Eligibility 23:50 How To Reach Hunter 24:43 Closing Thanks And Wrap Hunter Beiderman is a criminal defense attorney who helps clients navigate criminal charges and pursue opportunities to clear their records. Through his work, he is committed to providing informed legal guidance and helping people understand their options when facing challenging legal circumstances. Website: www.texasrecordclearing.com If you or someone you know needs guidance regarding criminal charges or record clearing, visit www.texasrecordclearing.com to learn more about Hunter Beiderman and his legal services. If you found this episode valuable, subscribe to the podcast, share it with someone who could benefit from the conversation, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue bringing you informative conversations with experts and community leaders. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Why a Dismissed Case is Still on Your Record (and How to Erase It) with Hunter Biederman

  4. Sep 7

    Midlife Women Wellness, Hormones & Menopause with Leticia Taylor-Buggs

    In this episode, we sit down with Coach T (Leticia Taylor-Buggs) to explore her journey from athlete to full-time entrepreneur in holistic wellness. Coach T shares how her experience as an athlete shaped her approach to wellness, how she evolved her services to meet her clients’ changing needs, and what the client journey looks like inside her programs. She also shares the future of her business and the impact of taking a more holistic approach to helping clients reach their wellness goals. Episode Chapters;00:00 Midlife Symptoms Wakeup 00:33 Meet Brianna and Coach T 01:11 Who Is Coach T 02:46 From Athletes to Midlife Women 04:44 Perimenopause Diagnosis Story 07:04 Tailored Training and Referrals 09:21 Program Timelines and Expectations 10:53 Vision for a Wellness Ecosystem 12:24 Client Assessment Case Study 15:46 Results and Long-Term Clients 16:46 How to Join and Contact Info 17:36 Final Thanks and Sign Off Coach T (Leticia Taylor-Buggs) is a wellness entrepreneur and coach who combines her athletic background with a holistic approach to helping clients improve their health and overall well-being. Through Taylor Made Fitness, she provides personalized wellness strategies designed to support clients throughout their individual journeys. Connect with Coach T: Website: www.tmadefit.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmadefit Ready to take a more holistic approach to your wellness journey? Visit www.tmadefit.com and connect with Coach T to learn more about her programs and services. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, share it with someone who could benefit from this conversation, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue bringing you inspiring stories, practical insights, and conversations that make an impact. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Midlife Women Wellness, Hormones & Menopause with Leticia Taylor-Buggs

  5. Aug 31

    From Corporate to Community Impact with Leah Abasolo

    In this episode, we sit down with Leah Abasolo, founder of Baron Von Consulting, to explore how a life shaped by constant change, corporate experience, and entrepreneurship led her to help others build purpose-driven businesses. Leah shares how growing up as an Army brat influenced her personally and professionally, what brought her to Dallas, and how the skills and relationships she developed during her corporate career became the foundation for her own business. She also discusses supporting entrepreneurs who feel stuck, her evolving role as a coach and mentor, and her vision for expanding Baron Von’s community impact. Episode Chapters;00:00 Tech Is The Blocker00:36 Meet Brianna And Leah01:19 Who Is Leah02:25 Army Brat Lessons06:00 Landing In Dallas07:44 From Corporate To Founder09:37 Helping Women Entrepreneurs10:36 Problem Solver Mindset13:25 Case Study And Small Is Worthy15:16 Social Media Overload15:50 Content Creator Trap16:35 Small Is Worthy16:59 Neighborhood First Growth17:38 Third Spaces Rising18:05 Defining Her Role18:54 Servant Leader Mindset19:55 Barter And Access20:31 Nonprofit Vision Next22:39 Building The Blueprint23:57 Community Over Competition25:38 Accountability After Event26:36 Connect And Final WordsLeah Abasolo is the founder of Baron Von Consulting, where she supports entrepreneurs and business owners as they develop their ideas, strengthen their businesses, and move toward sustainable growth. Drawing from her corporate background and entrepreneurial experience, Leah combines mentorship, strategy, and community building to help others move forward with confidence. Connect with Leah Abasolo: Instagram: @baronvonconsultingWebsite: www.baronvon.orgEmail: leah.abasolo@baronvon.org Ready to take your business from an idea to its next level? Connect with Leah Abasolo and learn more about the work and community being built through Baron Von Consulting. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with an entrepreneur or aspiring business owner who could benefit from Leah’s insights, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue bringing you meaningful conversations with entrepreneurs, leaders, and community builders. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    From Corporate to Community Impact with Leah Abasolo

  6. Season 11 Trailer

    Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? Season 11 - Media Content Day Showcase

    Season 11 of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? is bringing something new! In this trailer, Brianna Jovahn introduces a special series highlighting local business owners who participated in a community-focused Media Content Day created to help entrepreneurs gain affordable, high-quality content and greater visibility for their businesses. The project brought together podcast interviews, blog and newsletter features, social media clips, professional headshots, and behind-the-scenes B-roll—all designed to give local business owners months of content from one experience. Throughout the new season, listeners will hear the stories and journeys of featured entrepreneurs from different backgrounds, including Leah, Leticia, and Hunter. Brianna also reflects on the podcast's growth since launching in 2019 and expresses her gratitude for the continued support, collaborations, and community surrounding the show. Key TakeawaysCelebrating the growth of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? since its launch in 2019.Introducing a new season focused on supporting and highlighting local business owners.Exploring the idea behind the Media Content Day and its goal of making professional content more accessible to entrepreneurs.Combining podcast interviews, blog features, newsletters, social media clips, professional headshots, and B-roll into one content experience.Creating months of business content from a single media day.Showcasing the stories and businesses of entrepreneurs from different backgrounds throughout Season 11.Looking ahead to potentially bringing the Media Content Day experience back for more local business owners.Getting a preview of the upcoming episodes featuring Leah, Leticia, Hunter, and other local entrepreneurs. Hosted by Brianna Jovahn, Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? highlights the people, businesses, stories, and opportunities shaping the Dallas-Fort Worth community. Season 11 takes a unique approach by giving local entrepreneurs a platform to share their stories while creating valuable content they can use to increase their visibility and grow their businesses. Get ready for a new season of inspiring conversations, entrepreneurial stories, and local connections! Be sure to subscribe to Dallas, Texas: What’s Good?, share the Season 11 trailer with a local business owner who should be featured, and leave a review to help support the podcast and its growing community. Season 11 starts now—let’s see what’s good in Dallas! More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? Season 11 - Media Content Day Showcase

  7. Aug 17

    Season 10 Finale: Highlighting Powerful Conversations Around Wealth Management

    Season 10 of Dallas, Texas: What’s Good? brought together a diverse group of experts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for conversations centered around wealth management, financial education, business growth, and building a stronger financial future. In this recap episode, Brianna Jovahn looks back at the people she interviewed throughout the season and highlights some of the most meaningful conversations and lessons they shared. From understanding money and investing to building businesses, creating generational wealth, protecting your finances, and shifting your mindset around success, Season 10 explored the many different ways people can approach financial growth. Brianna revisits the key themes and insights from the season while reflecting on the importance of financial awareness and having the right tools, knowledge, and support to make informed decisions. Key TakeawaysReflecting on the financial experts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders featured throughout Season 10.Revisiting conversations around wealth building, financial education, and creating long-term financial security.Exploring different approaches to investing, financial planning, and managing money.Highlighting the connection between entrepreneurship, business growth, and personal wealth.Understanding the importance of financial literacy and developing a healthy relationship with money.Revisiting strategies for protecting wealth and planning for the future.Celebrating the personal stories, challenges, pivots, and successes shared by Season 10 guests.Reflecting on the different perspectives and lessons Brianna took away from the season.Encouraging listeners to take what they learned and apply it to their own financial journey. If you missed any of the Season 10 conversations, go back and listen to the full episodes to hear directly from the experts and entrepreneurs who shared their stories and financial insights. And as always, don't forget to subscribe to Dallas, Texas: What's Good?, share this episode with someone who could benefit from these conversations, and leave a review. Your support helps Brianna continue creating meaningful conversations and highlighting the people making an impact in the Dallas community. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    Season 10 Finale: Highlighting Powerful Conversations Around Wealth Management

  8. Jul 20 ·  Bonus

    You Can Sit With Us: Building the Dallas Girl Gang with Amanda Smith

    In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Smith, entrepreneur, community builder, and founder of Dallas Girl Gang, to explore how authentic relationships can become the foundation of successful businesses and thriving communities. Amanda shares her journey from the classroom to entrepreneurship, the pivots that shaped her career, and why intentional networking is about far more than exchanging business cards. She also offers an inside look at the mission behind Dallas Girl Gang and what it truly takes to create a community where people feel seen, supported, and connected. Episode Timestamps; 00:00 Make People Feel Welcome 00:52 Meet Amanda Smith 01:33 From Teacher to Founder 03:31 Motherhood and New Ventures 04:45 Networking vs Community 07:46 Reaching All of DFW 10:35 Partnerships Drive Events 11:46 What Dallas Girl Gang Is 12:57 Boss Vision Conference Plans 14:55 Building Trust and Feedback 19:17 Listen to Your Community 20:25 Find Your People and Connect Guest Details Amanda Smith is an entrepreneur, community builder, and the founder of Dallas Girl Gang, a thriving network that connects, supports, and empowers women through meaningful relationships, events, and opportunities. She is also the co-founder of The Playbook Co, where she helps businesses and communities grow through intentional strategy and authentic connection. Connect with Amanda Smith: Dallas Girl Gang: https://dallasgirlgang.myflodesk.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandasindallasThe Playbook Co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplaybookco/ Looking to expand your network and become part of a supportive community? Learn more about Dallas Girl Gang and connect with Amanda Smith to discover upcoming events and opportunities to build meaningful relationships. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, share it with someone looking to grow their network, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue sharing inspiring conversations that encourage connection, leadership, and community. More Products Follow What's Good Productions on; Website: https://whatsgood-productions.com/ Follow What's Good Podcast; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgood_podcast/ Follow Brianna Jovahn on; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.jovahn_/ Mentioned in this episode: Ready to Book your Podcast Power Session? Thinking about starting a podcast or leveling up your current one? Book a 30-minute Podcast Power Session with What's Good Productions to turn your ideas into reality. Let’s make podcasting easy and fun! Book Your Free Podcast Power Session Here

    You Can Sit With Us: Building the Dallas Girl Gang with Amanda Smith
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Ever wonder how Dallas’s most successful brands actually got built? What's Good goes behind the scenes with local founders to uncover the raw stories and specific strategies they used to grow in the DFW market. Whether you’re building in 'Big D' or scaling a business elsewhere, these raw stories of resilience and innovation offer a blueprint for any entrepreneur driven to move forward. In each episode, you’ll learn answers to questions like: • What’s it like to be an entrepreneur in Dallas? • How do Dallas creatives and entrepreneurs build their brands? • What are the challenges and rewards of running a business in Dallas? • What advice do local entrepreneurs have for starting a business? • How can I find inspiration from successful business owners? • What are the common traits of successful entrepreneurs? • How does the Dallas business community support local innovation? • What are some practical tips for networking and growth? • How do business owners in Dallas stay resilient through challenges? • What unique opportunities exist for Dallas creatives and business owners? • What resources are available for the Dallas local community to build a successful business? Don't forget to Follow, Share, Rate, and Review!

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