In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Matters, host Liz Arcos sits down with Kate Tracy, retail, restaurant, and hospitality reporter for the Triangle Business Journal. Kate shares her journey into business journalism, why real estate is at the center of every story, and what it’s like covering the Triangle’s fast-changing retail scene.

From digging through public records to networking with local business leaders, Kate offers an inside look at how she discovers some of the region’s most talked-about developments. She also discusses the balance between breaking news and long-form trend pieces, and why telling the stories behind new shops and restaurants is one of the most rewarding parts of her role.

Whether you’re a broker, developer, or business owner, this episode gives you a journalist’s perspective on the people and trends shaping retail and hospitality in the Triangle.

Kate Tracy's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kate-tracy-69bbb649/
Kate Tracy's email address: [email protected]

In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Matters, host Kim Mills sits down with Scott Newcomb, founder of Zenvy AI, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the commercial real estate industry.

From automating lead generation to streamlining marketing tasks, Scott shares how CRE professionals can start integrating AI tools to save time, stay competitive, and scale their business more effectively.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore AI or looking for ways to implement it into your CRE practice, this episode offers practical insights and takeaways.

Scott Newcomb's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottnewcomb/

In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Matters, host Tommy Dalton sits down with Tara Lau of North State Bank to explore what truly defines a strong lending relationship in commercial real estate. With over three decades in banking, Tara shares how community banks differ from larger institutions, offering personalized service, in-house decision-making, and long-term relationship management.

They talk through how commercial lending works behind the scenes, why it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, and what both brokers and business owners should understand when navigating financing for purchases, construction, or refinancing. Whether you're new to commercial lending or looking to deepen your knowledge, this conversation sheds light on what makes a financial partner truly valuable.

Tara Lau's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-lau-258bb417/

North State Bank Website: https://www.northstatebank.com/

In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Matters, host Kim Mills sits down with Ryan Combs, Executive Director of the Research Triangle Regional Partnership, to explore how collaboration between businesses, government agencies, and economic development organizations is fueling growth in the Research Triangle.

From attracting major companies to fostering a thriving business environment, we discuss the strategies behind regional economic success, the role of public-private partnerships, and what makes the Triangle a top destination for investment. Whether you're an investor, business leader, or curious about how regions build economic momentum, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss.

Ryan Combs LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-combs-3b2336157/

Research Triangle Regional Partnership Website: https://researchtriangle.org/

In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Matters, host John Powell dives into the visionary story of Eastfield, a 435-acre mixed-use development in Johnston County, NC, with special guest Kevin Dougherty, founder and president of Adventure Development.

Kevin shares how Eastfield’s prime location at I-95’s Exit 97 positions it as a transformative project, blending local community needs with the demands of interstate travelers. From the innovative Old North State Food Hall to a diverse mix of retail, industrial, and residential components, Eastfield is driving economic growth and creating over 700 jobs with the arrival of major names like Target, Crystal Windows, and VeeTee Foods.

Discover the strategic partnerships, community focus, and faith-based principles that have shaped Eastfield’s success and learn how this masterclass in mixed-use development is redefining the commercial real estate landscape in North Carolina. Whether you’re a developer, investor, or simply curious about groundbreaking projects, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss.

Eastfield Website:

https://adventuredev.com/eastfield-crossing

Kevin Dougherty LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-dougherty-84745729/

In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Matters, Kara Blue sits down with Trey Adams, founding partner of Atlas Stark Holdings, to explore the transformative potential of adaptive reuse in commercial real estate. From reimagining old warehouses to creating vibrant community spaces, Trey shares his journey, favorite projects, and the challenges of breathing new life into historic buildings. Discover how these projects are shaping communities and creating unique opportunities in growing markets.

Trey Adams LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trey-adams-bb572913/

Atlas Stark Website: https://atlasstark.com

In this episode of Commercial Real Estate Matters, we sit down with Benton Moss, CEO of Simmons & Harris, to discuss exciting economic growth in Nash and Edgecombe counties, along with his insights into property management, development strategies, and the factors shaping the future of commercial and residential real estate. Whether you're an industry professional or simply curious about the evolving landscape of real estate, this episode provides valuable perspectives on seizing opportunities in dynamic markets. Tune in for practical takeaways and a forward-looking discussion on the trends impacting communities and businesses alike.

Join us as we explore how strategic development is transforming a small town into an economic powerhouse. Jennifer Lantz and Cindy Ingram from the Economic Development Council share the innovative approaches and key decisions driving this remarkable growth. Whether you're in real estate, economic development, or simply love hearing about impactful community success stories, this episode is a must-listen!

Join us for "Transforming Workspaces: Modern Design Trends and Expert Perspectives" as we delve into the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of work environments. Our guests, Jennifer Hanson, Business Development Manager at Allsteel, and Jessica Bossiere, Interior Design Principal at HH Architecture, share their journeys and expertise. Discover the evolving roles of interior design and asset management, the importance of strategic collaborations, and the benefits of working with experienced design professionals. Whether you're an investor, developer, or design enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating functional and inspiring workspaces.

Jennifer Hanson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhansonphotography/

Jessica Bossiere

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-bossiere-iida-95419030/

Allsteel Website:

https://www.allsteeloffice.com/

HH Architecture Website: 

https://hh-arch.com/

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Olalah Njenga, the CEO & Chief Strategist of YellowWood Group and a recipient of the NSBA Small Business Advocate Award. In honor of Small Business Month, join us as we dive into the world of small businesses in North Carolina, exploring the current economic climate, emerging trends, and innovative strategies that are shaping the future. Olalah shares her expert insights on the importance of partnerships, the role of technology, and the critical factors to consider when selecting and leveraging commercial real estate. Whether you're a small business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply interested in the dynamics of small businesses, this episode offers valuable advice and practical tips to help you navigate the complexities of the market and achieve success. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive in the ever-evolving small business landscape of North Carolina. 

Olalah Njenga

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olalah/

YellowWood Group

Website: https://yellowwood.io/