In this conversation with Brent, Pete reflects on his time as Under Secretary of the Army and Secretary of the Army under two administrations, and as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives—and how those experiences have shaped his leadership today as President of the Sid W. Richardson Foundation. Pete and Brent discuss how politics have changed over the years and how to create meaningful change within government and large bureaucracies, particularly those responsible for education. They also talk about who Sid Richardson was and the foundation that bears his name.

In this episode of Paying Attention, Brent Beasley sits down with Pete Geren to discuss Fort Worth’s literacy crisis and what it will take to improve student reading outcomes. Drawing on his work with the Sid Richardson Foundation, Pete shares what philanthropy can—and can’t—do to move the needle. Together, they examine the hard realities behind the data and why leadership, alignment, and accountability matter.

Brent sits down with Trenace Dorsey-Hollins, Executive Director of Parent Shield Fort Worth. Trenace talks about the organization's work supporting families and helping parents navigate the school system. She discusses the importance of parent voice, the need for clear information, and what it looks like to stay focused on a mission that puts students first.