In this heartfelt episode, Tamara speaks with T. Dallas Smith about his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in real estate. Through hard work, determination, and keeping God at the center, Dallas turned his vision into reality while staying rooted in his spiritual values. This episode is a powerful testament to the importance of faith, family, and purpose in creating a legacy that uplifts future generations.
Watch T. Dallas’s full interview on YouTube!
It seems like everyone is talking about “generational wealth” these days—building financial security that lasts beyond our lifetime. But is wealth just about money?
When most people think of leaving a legacy, they focus on passing down cash, assets, and investments. But in my conversation with T. Dallas Smith—Founder and CEO of T. Dallas Smith & Co. and author of In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry—he challenged that idea. True generational wealth is more than just financial prosperity; it’s about equipping future generations with the wisdom, faith, and mindset to thrive.
Because here’s the truth: What good is wealth if the next generation doesn’t know how to manage it, invest it, or steward it wisely? A true legacy isn’t just about what you leave for your children—it’s about what you leave in them.
Pray for the Generations You’ll Never Meet
T. Dallas Smith credits much of his journey to the prayers of his great-grandmother, who had a vision beyond her own lifetime. She didn’t just pray for her children—she prayed for the children yet to be born, asking God to bless them with opportunities, wisdom, and faith.
The Bible reminds us in Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” God already has a plan for each generation, but what if our prayers could help cultivate that purpose even before they arrive?
Smith’s great-grandmother never lived to see his success, yet her faith shaped his destiny. What if we took that same intentionality in our prayers? What if we prayed not just for financial security but for our descendants to be leaders, change makers, and vessels for God’s work? What if we covered them in prayers for protection, wisdom, and favor before they ever take their first breath?
Build a Legacy of Opportunity, Not Just Wealth
We often hear the phrase “leave something for your children,” but what if the focus was on leaving something in them? Wealth alone won’t prepare the next generation to navigate life’s challenges, especially in this economy—but wisdom, knowledge, and faith could.
T. Dallas Smith didn’t inherit millions—he inherited a belief system that told him he was worthy of more. That belief gave him the confidence to become the first Black broker at the largest real estate firm in the Southeast—breaking barriers in an industry that often excluded Black professionals.
Financial wealth is important, but true legacy-building is about instilling:
- Financial wisdom—teaching the next generation how to manage and grow their resources.
- A spirit of resilience—encouraging them to take risks and trust in God’s provision.
- A sense of purpose—helping them see their work as something bigger than themselves.
If we want our seed to thrive, are we even setting the right example?
Instill a Vision That’s Bigger Than Them
A seed doesn’t just grow for itself—it produces fruit for others. Legacy is about impact—shaping lives beyond our own, leaving behind something greater than personal success.
As society pushes the “chase wealth at all costs” mentality, we must challenge ourselves. Are we teaching the next generation to pursue purpose over profit? Are we raising them to understand that their talents, knowledge, and resources are tools for service, leadership, and transformation? And are we ourselves being greedy with what God has given to us?
T. Dallas Smith’s great-grandmother prayed for a future she wouldn’t see—yet her faith still speaks through him today. That’s the power of legacy.
So, what kind of seed are you planting? What will your legacy be?
