One Scoop at a Time: Lessons in Leadership from Blue Bell’s Ricky Dickson

Pictured here are some of our Ignite & Inspire Daily members and friends who joined me for this special event. I had the incredible opportunity to meet Ricky Dickson, former CEO of Blue Bell Ice Cream, at today’s Executive Luncheon Series—an experience that was both humbling and inspiring. Ricky shared his powerful journey from an unsure college student at Baylor to leading one of America’s most beloved ice cream brands. What began as a class project turned into a lifelong calling, fueled by faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to people. He spoke about the importance of knowing yourself, dreaming big, expecting the unexpected, and preparing others to lead. His leadership philosophy is built on values like humility, transparency, and always doing the right thing—even when it’s hard.

Ricky also reflected on the rich history of the company he once led. Blue Bell Creameries began in 1907 in Brenham, Texas, as the Brenham Creamery Company, originally producing butter from excess local cream. In 1919, a young schoolteacher named E.F. Kruse was hired to revive the struggling business. Under his leadership, the company shifted its focus to ice cream and was renamed Blue Bell Creameries in 1930, inspired by the Texas wildflower. The Kruse family led the company for nearly a century, with Ed Kruse following E.F., then Howard Kruse (1986–2004), and Paul Kruse (2004–2017). In 2017, Ricky Dickson became the first CEO outside the Kruse family, marking a significant new chapter. Today, Jimmy Lawhorn leads the company, continuing Blue Bell’s legacy of quality and Southern tradition.

Some of Ricky’s leadership action items really hit home:

• Build resilience and be ready when life gets tough

• Admit mistakes—it builds trust

• Be transparent and speak the truth

• Make others feel valued

• Prepare and empower future leaders

His new book, One Scoop at a Time, beautifully captures his story and the timeless leadership lessons that shaped his career. If you're looking to get ignited and inspired in your own life and leadership, you're always welcome to join our Ignite & Inspire Daily Zoom meetings, where we explore impactful books together. And if you'd like to attend the next Executive Luncheon Series, let me know—I’d be happy to help you get connected!