The City Sculptors Podcast

Alexis Williams
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship

The City Sculptors Podcast by Twelfth Street Heritage takes you behind the scenes of development and community building. Join host Alexis Williams as she interviews industry leaders, visionaries and local change-makers shaping the future of our neighborhoods. From innovative housing solutions to community-driven projects, discover how cities evolve one block at a time. Tune in and be part of the conversation that’s sculpting the city of tomorrow!

  1. Oct 26

    More Than One Calling: Brandan Jackson on Entrepreneurship, Community & Creating Connections

    What does it mean to build a legacy while pursuing multiple passions? For Brandan Jackson, it's about bringing people together, creating opportunities, and making a difference in his community. In this episode of The City Sculptors Podcast, host Alexis Williams sits down with Brandan Jackson, a Kansas City firefighter and EMT, basketball coach, entrepreneur, and community builder who is proving that you don't have to limit yourself to just one calling. From becoming a firefighter at just 19 years old to coaching young athletes and launching two businesses in 2025, Brandan shares his journey of service, leadership, and entrepreneurship. He reflects on growing up in Kansas City, Kansas, the lessons he learned as a state championship basketball player, and his passion for mentoring the next generation. The conversation also explores two of his newest ventures: the Black Pickleball Club of Kansas City, an initiative focused on introducing more African Americans to pickleball while building community through sports, and Move the Needle: A Vinyl Listening Experience, a unique concept that brings people together to appreciate music, storytelling, and albums as art. Brandan discusses what it takes to turn an idea into a business, the challenges of balancing multiple responsibilities, and why creating spaces for people to connect is such an important part of building stronger communities. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a young professional finding your path, or someone passionate about bringing people together, this episode is a reminder that success isn't just about what you accomplish. It's about the impact you make along the way. 🎙️ Because building a better city isn't always about buildings. Sometimes, it's about creating experiences, building relationships, and bringing people together. Support the show

  2. Oct 12

    The Voice of Kansas City: Tony G on Black Radio, Community & Building a Lasting Legacy

    Before social media and podcasts, radio was the heartbeat of the community. And for decades, Tony G was one of the voices helping shape Kansas City's music, culture, and connection. In this episode of The City Sculptors Podcast, host Alexis Williams sits down with Tony Gregg, better known as Tony G, a longtime Kansas City radio personality, DJ, and community advocate whose influence extends far beyond the microphone. From his early days DJing in clubs to becoming a familiar voice on KPRS, Tony G takes us through the evolution of Black radio in Kansas City and the powerful role it played in connecting communities, supporting local businesses, and giving people a platform to be heard. The conversation explores unforgettable moments from his radio career, the personalities and music that defined an era, and the responsibility that comes with having a voice in the community. Tony G also reflects on his decades of giving back through his Holiday Toy & Food Drive, his passion for supporting young people, and the importance of preserving the legacy of Black broadcasters for future generations. Beyond the stories and memories, this episode is a conversation about leadership, representation, community service, and how one person's voice can create a lasting impact. Whether you grew up listening to Tony G or are discovering his story for the first time, this episode offers a look at a chapter of Kansas City's history and the people who helped shape it. 🎙️ Because being a City Sculptor isn't always about building buildings. Sometimes, it's about building connections, creating opportunities, and giving a community a voice. Support the show

  3. Sep 29

    Investing in Entrepreneurs, Investing in Community: Brandon Calloway of Kansas City G.I.F.T.

    What happens when a conversation about an economic gap turns into a movement for change? In this episode of The City Sculptors Podcast, host Alexis Williams sits down with Brandon Calloway, Founder and CEO of Kansas City G.I.F.T., for a conversation about entrepreneurship, access to capital, and the power of investing in local businesses. Kansas City G.I.F.T. began with a simple idea: talented Black entrepreneurs already have the vision and drive to build successful businesses, but too often lack access to the funding and resources needed to grow. What started with a Facebook post and a conversation has evolved into an organization bringing people together to invest in Black-owned businesses, create jobs, and expand economic opportunity throughout Kansas City. Brandon shares the story behind G.I.F.T., his own entrepreneurial journey, and why supporting entrepreneurs can have an impact far beyond one business. The conversation explores what it takes to turn an idea into action, overcome barriers, build sustainable businesses, and use entrepreneurship as a tool to strengthen neighborhoods. Whether you're an entrepreneur, aspiring business owner, or simply passionate about Kansas City's future, this episode is a reminder of what can happen when we invest in people, ideas, and opportunity. 🎙️ Because when entrepreneurs grow, communities grow with them. Support the show

  4. Sep 14

    From Corporate Career to Calling: Casie Murff on Purpose, Entrepreneurship & Building The BeVel

    What happens when you walk away from the career that looks successful to pursue the work that feels purposeful? In this episode of The City Sculptors Podcast, host Alexis Williams sits down with Casie Murph, “Murph the Barber,” master barber, educator, entrepreneur, and founder of The BeVel Barber Lounge in Kansas City. After spending 20 years in corporate America as an IT professional, Casie made the decision in 2017 to bet on himself and return to a craft he first discovered at just 14 years old. What began with a pair of clippers and a vision has grown into The BeVel, a barbershop built around excellence, confidence, community, mentorship, and opportunity. Casie shares his journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, the role faith and persistence have played in his success, and what it took to build and scale a business through uncertainty. He also discusses his commitment to developing the next generation of professionals and creating a legacy that reaches far beyond the barber chair. This conversation is about more than building a business. It’s about recognizing your purpose, having the courage to pursue it, and using your success to create opportunities for others. Support the show

  5. Jul 27

    Clyde McQueen on Workforce, Economic Development & Kansas City's Future

    What does it take to build a stronger city? According to Clyde McQueen, it starts with investing in people. In this episode of The City Sculptors Podcast, host Alexis Williams sits down with Clyde McQueen, President and CEO of the Full Employment Council (FEC), to discuss how workforce development has become one of the most powerful tools for creating economic opportunity across the Kansas City region. With more than three decades of leadership, McQueen shares how the FEC has evolved into a driving force behind workforce readiness, connecting thousands of job seekers with training, career pathways, and life-changing employment opportunities. He explains why access to transportation, education, and equitable economic development are essential to building thriving communities, and why data and compassion must work together to create meaningful change. The conversation also explores Kansas City's rapid growth, the future of workforce development, the importance of public and private partnerships, and the leadership lessons McQueen has learned throughout his remarkable career. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, policymaker, or someone passionate about the future of Kansas City, this episode offers valuable insight into the people and partnerships shaping our region. 🎙️ Tune in as we explore how investing in people creates stronger neighborhoods, a more resilient workforce, and a brighter future for Kansas City. Support the show

  6. Jul 13

    Building Safer Communities Through Prevention with Murray Woodard, Director of COMBAT

    What does it really take to create safer, stronger communities? In this episode of The City Sculptors Podcast, host Alexis Williams sits down with Murray Woodard, Director of COMBAT, to discuss the power of prevention, community partnerships, and investing in people before problems arise. From youth development and substance use treatment to neighborhood revitalization and public safety, Murray shares how COMBAT is working to address the root causes of violence while building healthier communities across Jackson County. He also reflects on his personal leadership journey, the challenges facing Kansas City today, and why collaboration between residents, nonprofits, businesses, schools, and local government is essential for lasting change. Whether you're passionate about community development, public service, or creating opportunities for the next generation, this conversation offers valuable insights into the work shaping the future of our region. 🎙️ Listen now and join the conversation as we continue highlighting the leaders sculpting a better Kansas Support the show

  7. Jun 22

    Clemente Luna and the Business of Showing Up for Kansas City

    The City Sculptor's Podcast brings the heat — literally. Clemente Luna, owner of Luna Heating & Cooling, sits down to talk about what it took to build his business, what keeps him going, and why Kansas City has his heart. From the grind of entrepreneurship to the pride of being a local business owner who invests in his community, Clemente's story is proof that some of the most important city-builders never run for office. They just show up, do the work, and take care of their people. Support the show

  8. Jun 8

    She's Building Different: Mayor Watson Is Reshaping What Kansas City, Kansas Can Be

    Mayor Watson didn't come to the seat to maintain the status quo — she came to build something. The first Black woman elected mayor in Kansas City, Kansas history sits down with The City Sculptor's Podcast to talk legacy, leadership, and what it really means to develop a city without leaving your community behind. We cover everything from her path through education and nonprofit work, to the real talk on stadiums, housing, budgets, and belonging. Plus — rapid fire questions, her theme song, and the advice she has for every Millennial and Gen Z dreamer who wants to be part of shaping where they live. This one's for the builders. Support the show

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About

The City Sculptors Podcast by Twelfth Street Heritage takes you behind the scenes of development and community building. Join host Alexis Williams as she interviews industry leaders, visionaries and local change-makers shaping the future of our neighborhoods. From innovative housing solutions to community-driven projects, discover how cities evolve one block at a time. Tune in and be part of the conversation that’s sculpting the city of tomorrow!

Information

  • Creator
    Alexis Williams
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The City Sculptors Podcast
  • Show Website
    The City Sculptors Podcast