Joe Robson: On the Robson Ranch Family Legacy & Shaping Oklahoma's Real Estate Development Industry

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Joe Robson grew up on his family’s cattle ranch east of Tulsa, where he learned the values of hard work and stewardship that would guide his life. After graduating from Southern Methodist University, he returned home to begin his career in real estate, founding the Robson Companies in 1986. From there, Joe transformed part of the family ranch into Forest Ridge, a master-planned community that helped define modern development in Broken Arrow. His efforts also extended to improving Tulsa’s infrastructure, including his involvement in the widening of the Broken Arrow Expressway and the construction of the Creek Turnpike, which used land donated by his family.

In this interview, Joe reflects on growing up amid one of Oklahoma’s most storied families. His aunt Helen married Sam Walton, and Joe recalls family gatherings filled with stories of the early days of Walmart and his grandfather’s pioneering work in founding RCB Bank. Joe shares memories of Sam Walton’s humility, his grandfather LS Robson’s vision, and the family’s deep-rooted belief in education and community progress. He also discusses his service as Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders and his leadership in banking as Chairman of RCB Bank.

Through his work in real estate, civic development, and philanthropy, Joe Robson continues the Robson family’s century-long legacy of shaping Oklahoma’s growth. Listen as he recounts his journey from ranch life to national leadership and the people and values that helped shape his path.

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