Show Notes:Guest: Paul Mayer, CEO, Garland Chamber of CommerceLocation: YTexas Event at the Dallas College Convention Center, Garland, TexasEpisode Topics:The power of community collaboration: How the city, chamber, and schools work together for Garland’s economic development.Stewardship in leadership: Paul’s perspective on creating sustainable partnerships and his experience shaping the city's future.Workforce development: The collaboration between Garland's businesses, Dallas College, and the local school district to prepare the next generation of workers.The role of the chamber in building a thriving city: How the Garland Chamber supports local businesses and elevates the community.Overcoming fragmentation: The story behind the formation of the Garland Economic Development Partnership and its long-term success.Garland’s approach to regional collaboration: How local chambers and the broader North Texas region work together to drive growth and attract new opportunities.Episode Chapters:Introduction [00:00] Justin McKenzie introduces the special episode with Paul Mayer at the YTexas event in Garland, Texas.The Role of the Chamber in Garland [02:00] Paul discusses the unique role of the Garland Chamber of Commerce and how it serves the community by supporting local businesses.Garland’s Economic History & Manufacturing Legacy [04:00] Paul highlights Garland’s history, from agriculture to its manufacturing roots, and how the Chamber has aligned its programming to support this economy.Building Collaborative Partnerships [06:00] The discussion moves to the importance of collaboration between businesses, the city, and local schools. Paul emphasizes how these partnerships have shaped Garland’s success.Workforce Development & Education [08:00] Paul talks about the role of Dallas College and local school districts in preparing Garland’s future workforce and ensuring long-term economic success.Overcoming Fragmentation in Garland’s Leadership [10:00] A look into the city’s early challenges in leadership collaboration and how the formation of the Garland Economic Development Partnership changed the course of the city.Regional Collaboration & Strategic Growth [12:00] Paul discusses the importance of thinking regionally and working with other chambers and organizations to boost the Dallas-Fort Worth area’s growthThe Culture of Collaboration in Garland [14:00] Reflecting on how Garland’s culture of collaboration has become ingrained in the community’s DNA, driving continued prosperity and innovation.Conclusion & Final Thoughts [16:00] Justin and Paul wrap up their conversation and discuss the importance of leadership that elevates others in shaping Garland’s future.