The most valuable companies in the world are maximizing their revenues by improving their inclusion and diversity strategies. But what does it take for a company to be “In the Black” from a diversity and economic standpoint? Join T. Dallas Smith, the founder of one of the largest Black-owned commercial real estate firms in the country, as he speaks with other champions for change who challenge the status quo to improve the lives of others. If you’re looking to transform the dominant narrative in the commercial real estate industry, this is the podcast for you, In the Black with T. Dallas Smith, a production of Forbes Books.
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February 19, 202615 min
How John Ahmann Is Reshaping Atlanta’s West Side Communities (Part Two)
In Part Two of their conversation, T. Dallas Smith and John Ahmann dive into the leaders, lessons, and life experiences that shaped John’s work across Atlanta.John shares how his time with the Atlanta Olympic Committee taught him the power of bold vision, firm deadlines, and civic leadership. He reflects on learning from figures like Ambassador Andrew Young, Mayor Shirley Franklin, and business leaders who showed how real change happens when communities, government, and companies move together.The discussion turns personal as John discovers his uncle’s role as an organizer of the March on Washington and sees his legacy preserved in civil rights history at Booker T. Washington High School.John also explains the mission behind the West Side Future Fund and what it means to build a “beloved community,” rooted in Dr. King’s vision of dignity, opportunity, and shared responsibility. He paints a picture of thriving neighborhoods built on strong infrastructure and strong values.This episode offers a clear look at leadership, legacy, and how communities grow when people lead with purpose.
February 12, 202619 min
How John Ahmann Is Reshaping Atlanta’s West Side Communities (Part One)
For years, the west side of Atlanta faced disinvestment, vacant homes, and families being priced out of the neighborhoods they built.In Part One of this conversation, T. Dallas Smith sits down with John Ahmann, president and CEO of the West Side Future Fund, to break down how one of Atlanta’s most intentional revitalization efforts began and why land ownership sits at the center of long-term equity.John shares the early days of the West Side Future Fund, from the announcement of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium to the community-driven planning process that shaped the future of English Avenue and Vine City. He explains why listening came before development, how blight and depopulation stalled progress, and what it took to create a model focused on retention instead of displacement.You’ll also hear how the Anti-Displacement Tax Fund was built to protect longtime residents as property values rise, why controlling land changes the affordability equation, and how nearly $200 million in public, private, and philanthropic investment is reshaping Atlanta’s west side.
September 16, 202513 min
Legacy in Motion: Richard Slaton on Real Estate, Mentorship and Impact (Part Two)
In the second half of this powerful conversation, Richard Slaton is back In the Black to dive deeper into the lessons, values, and mindset that have shaped his impact in real estate, education, and community development.Richard shares the rigorous path to becoming a CCIM Senior Instructor and why it was one of the most rewarding challenges of his career. He opens up about what he instills in his students, the art of simplifying complex financial concepts, and the role mentorship continues to play in his life. From creative financing strategies to insights on site control and building trust with stakeholders, Richard offers practical advice for aspiring developers—especially those starting with little to no capital.He also reflects on what success means at this stage in his life, why early mornings matter, and how golf has become both a business tool and a form of meditation. It’s a masterclass in leadership, legacy, and the value of staying humble, sharp, and generous with your knowledge.
September 9, 202516 min
Legacy in Motion: Richard Slaton on Real Estate, Mentorship and Impact (Part One)
In this episode of In the Black, Dallas welcomes longtime friend and powerhouse in real estate and finance, Richard Slaton. As Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase Commercial Bank, Richard brings decades of experience in community development, affordable housing, and mentoring future leaders. He opens up about his journey from a curious 12-year-old in Atlanta to becoming a respected educator and financial leader.Richard shares the story of his early exposure to real estate, the pivotal influence of mentors like Ramsey Davis, Dr. John Williams, and Egbert Perry, and how his time at Morehouse shaped his path. He reflects on working across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, what he learned from managing assets for high-net-worth clients, and how legacy, not short-term gains, has always guided his decisions.From driving through Atlanta and seeing his work come to life, to teaching the next generation at Morehouse, Richard’s story is about impact, purpose, and the power of staying curious. This is part one of a conversation packed with insights, gratitude, and wisdom from a life well-lived in service of community and excellence.
August 22, 202436 min
From Antigua to Atlanta: Egbert Perry's Journey of Innovation in Urban Development (Part Two)
In this continuation of his conversation with Egbert Perry, Dallas delves deeper into Perry's remarkable career and insights on urban development. Perry shares the story of co-founding Integral, a company dedicated to revitalizing urban America, and discusses their groundbreaking work transforming public housing projects into mixed-income communities. Listeners will hear about Perry's influential tenure as chairman of Fannie Mae during a critical period in U.S. housing policy. Perry offers candid reflections on the challenges of urban development, including confronting deep-rooted societal issues and unexpected resistance to positive change. The episode concludes with Perry introducing his concept of "market permission" - a powerful framework for understanding and overcoming systemic barriers in corporate America. He emphasizes the responsibility successful individuals have to create opportunities for others. This wide-ranging discussion offers invaluable perspectives on community development, housing policy, and navigating career advancement as a person of color in the business world. Don't miss this inspiring and insightful conversation with one of the most influential figures in urban revitalization.
August 15, 202431 min
From Antigua to Atlanta: Egbert Perry's Journey of Innovation in Urban Development (Part One)
In this episode of In the Black, T. Dallas Smith sits down with Egbert Perry, Chairman & CEO of Integral, a national urban development company. Perry shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Antigua to becoming a leader in urban development and community economic revitalization in the United States. Listeners will hear about Perry's humble beginnings, his scholarship to an elite New York boarding school, and his education at the University of Pennsylvania. Perry recounts how a chance connection led him to work for Herman J. Russell in Atlanta, a pivotal moment in his career. The conversation delves into valuable lessons Perry learned from Russell, including a powerful story about creativity and problem-solving when faced with limited resources. Perry's experience demonstrates the "power of being broke" and how it drove him to develop innovative solutions that shaped his future success. This episode offers insightful perspectives on entrepreneurship, urban development, and overcoming obstacles through determination and ingenuity. Don't miss this engaging discussion with one of the most influential figures in community development and real estate.
April 24, 202413 min
Transforming Corporate Real Estate: Michael Ford's Visionary Approach (Part Two)
In the second half of this compelling episode, the conversation takes a more personal turn as Michael Ford opens up about his upbringing in Alabama and the experiences that have shaped his life journey. He'll share insightful stories about what it was like growing up in the South, providing a window into the values and lessons that laid the foundation for his future success. Ford will also reveal the entertaining tale of how his wife managed to convince him to relocate to the unlikely destination of Fargo, North Dakota. Listeners will get to know the man behind the executive title as he recounts this pivotal decision that took his career and family on an unexpected adventure to the frozen northern plains. With his trademark blend of strategic thinking and down-to-earth candor, Michael Ford promises to not only impart invaluable wisdom for professional growth but also remind us of the importance of embracing life's detours and drawing strength from our roots. Don't miss this engaging glimpse into the personal side of one of corporate America's most transformative leaders.
April 17, 202417 min
Transforming Corporate Real Estate: Michael Ford's Visionary Approach (Part One)
On this episode of In the Black, Dallas is joined by Michael Ford, a groundbreaking change agent renowned for seamlessly blending strategy, analysis, and innovative solutions to drive operational excellence. As the Senior Vice President of Global Real Estate and Security at AT&T, Ford oversees a vast portfolio of nearly 200 million square feet while safeguarding the company's valuable assets - his strategic foresight and operational insight position him as a true catalyst for transforming companies and boldly shaping the future of work. Before joining AT&T, Ford served an impressive 18-year tenure at Microsoft, culminating in his position as Corporate Vice President of Global Workplace Services, where he led a team dedicated to delivering interconnected, sustainable, and secure workplaces across 113 countries, enhancing employee experience throughout the real estate lifecycle for over 200,000 global employees. With his wealth of experience and visionary approach, Michael Ford promises to offer invaluable insights into optimizing corporate real estate strategies, fostering operational excellence, and future-proofing organizations.
March 27, 202419 min
Powering Progress: Chris Womack's Trailblazing Leadership at Southern Company (Part Two)
The conversation takes a profound turn as Dallas and Chris delve into the significance of fostering hope in the younger generation and empowering the leaders of tomorrow. They explore how leaders can play a pivotal role in creating opportunities, providing mentorship, and instilling the values of service and resilience in youth. Chris shares insights from his upbringing and the mentors who inspired him, underscoring the lasting impact such guidance can have. He reveals how Southern Company's ethos is deeply rooted in corporate social responsibility, driving initiatives that uplift communities and open doors for the next generation. Their mission extends far beyond providing electricity; it's about empowering people, igniting potential, and leaving a legacy of progress that brightens the lives of all they serve.About Chris Womack: Chris is the chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Southern Company, one of the nation’s leading energy providers serving 9 million customers nationwide.Prior to his current role, since 2021 he served as chairman, president, and CEO of Georgia Power, leading Southern Company’s largest subsidiary.He assumed leadership of Georgia Power after serving as executive vice president and president of external affairs for Southern Company where he led overall external positioning and branding efforts including the company’s public policy strategies and oversaw the company’s governmental and regulatory affairs, corporate communication initiatives and other external and strategic business engagements.A native of Greenville, Alabama, Womack joined Southern Company in 1988 and has held several leadership positions within Southern Company and its subsidiaries. He has served as executive vice president of external affairs at Georgia Power and senior vice president and senior production officer of Southern Company Generation, where he was responsible for coal, gas, and hydro generation for Georgia Power and Savannah Electric. Womack also served as senior vice president of human resources and chief people officer at Southern Company, as well as senior vice president of public relations and corporate services at Alabama Power.Prior to joining Southern Company, Womack worked on Capitol Hill for the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C.. He served as a legislative aide for former Congressman Leon E. Panetta and as staff director for the Subcommittee on Personnel and Police for the Committee on House Administration.Womack is co-chair of the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Customer Solutions Policy Committee and a member of the board of directors of Invesco Ltd. and the Georgia Ports Authority. He is past chair of the board of the East Lake Foundation and is on the national board of The First Tee. Womack has chaired the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau board and the Atlanta Sports Council. He has received numerous honors, awards, and recognitions.He holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree from The American University, and he completed the Stanford Executive Program in 2001.
March 20, 202417 min
Powering Progress: Chris Womack's Trailblazing Leadership at Southern Company (Part One)
In the latest installment of In the Black with T. Dallas Smith, the spotlight shines on Chris Womack, the trailblazing Chairman, President, and CEO of Southern Company. Born in humble circumstances in Greenville, Alabama, Chris' remarkable journey has been defined by vision, determination, and an unwavering commitment to service. Over his 30-year tenure at Southern Company, he has consistently broken new ground, ascending through a succession of leadership roles to elevate the company to new heights of excellence. In this insightful conversation, T. Dallas delves into Chris' inspiring story, exploring the philosophies and strategies that have fueled his ascent.About Chris Womack: Chris is the chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Southern Company, one of the nation’s leading energy providers serving 9 million customers nationwide.Prior to his current role, since 2021 he served as chairman, president, and CEO of Georgia Power, leading Southern Company’s largest subsidiary.He assumed leadership of Georgia Power after serving as executive vice president and president of external affairs for Southern Company where he led overall external positioning and branding efforts including the company’s public policy strategies and oversaw the company’s governmental and regulatory affairs, corporate communication initiatives and other external and strategic business engagements.A native of Greenville, Alabama, Womack joined Southern Company in 1988 and has held several leadership positions within Southern Company and its subsidiaries. He has served as executive vice president of external affairs at Georgia Power and senior vice president and senior production officer of Southern Company Generation, where he was responsible for coal, gas, and hydro generation for Georgia Power and Savannah Electric. Womack also served as senior vice president of human resources and chief people officer at Southern Company, as well as senior vice president of public relations and corporate services at Alabama Power.Prior to joining Southern Company, Womack worked on Capitol Hill for the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C.. He served as a legislative aide for former Congressman Leon E. Panetta and as staff director for the Subcommittee on Personnel and Police for the Committee on House Administration.Womack is co-chair of the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Customer Solutions Policy Committee and a member of the board of directors of Invesco Ltd. and the Georgia Ports Authority. He is past chair of the board of the East Lake Foundation and is on the national board of The First Tee. Womack has chaired the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau board and the Atlanta Sports Council. He has received numerous honors, awards, and recognitions.He holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree from The American University, and he completed the Stanford Executive Program in 2001.
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