In this episode, Dave and Kristen sit down with Dan Bucan, the incoming president of the International Right of Way Association (IRWA), for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, service, and what’s ahead for the association. Dan reflects on his long IRWA journey, which began in the mid-1990s after attending luncheons while working for PennDOT. He shares how he never imagined he’d one day be leading the entire organization, and talks about the experience that shaped him through region leadership, the IEC, and years of listening, learning, and serving members. The conversation explores Dan’s priorities as president: keeping politics out of the association, elevating member-driven ideas, and launching task forces to move good initiatives forward instead of letting them stall. He also opens up about the kind of leader he wants to be — decisive, collaborative, and committed to recognizing the volunteers who keep IRWA running. Dave and Kristen also revisit their shared history with Dan, including old chapter meetings, the “Bucan Rule,” and the path that led Dan to run from the floor for IEC. The episode closes with a look ahead to the Omaha conference, the upcoming presidential term, and a hopeful vision for stronger connection across the IRWA community.

The International Right of Way Association just concluded its 71st Annual Educational Conference in Virginia Beach this June. Koby Godwin took the reins as the brand new president of the IRWA and joins the Infrastructure Junkies to discuss his journey through right of way industry leadership.  Koby gives his personalize recap of the Virginia Beach conference, discusses his rise through the ranks of the IRWA, the joys and frustrations of taking this role as a Canadian, and his plans for the future.  Don't worry, Dave and Kristen have all kinds of commentary on Canadian pop culture in this friendly good natured discussion!

In this episode, Infrastructure Junkies! hosts Dave Arnold and Kristen Short engage with guests Anthony DellaPelle and Ross Greene to explore the significance of the prestigious CRE (Counselors of Real Estate) certification. They discuss the rigorous application process, the multidisciplinary nature of the organization, and the value of networking among top-tier real estate professionals. They examine how the CRE certification demonstrates commitment to the real estate industry. The conversation also delves into the CRE Consulting Corps initiative, which provides pro bono consulting services to communities in need, and concludes with a light-hearted discussion about New Jersey's cryptids. Further in this conversation, the hosts and guests explore a variety of topics ranging from local legends and cryptids to the nuances of real estate practices. They delve into the ongoing debate of Taylor Ham versus pork roll, discuss the CRE's annual top 10 issues that impact real estate, and examine how political changes and tariffs can affect infrastructure projects. The conversation also highlights the unique community aspect of the CRE, including their band, Sound Counsel, which adds a fun twist to their professional gatherings.

Takeaways

CRE is a unique, multidisciplinary organization with over 60 professions represented.

This episode was generously sponsored by The Right of Way / Eminent Domain Practice Group at Pender & Coward, P.C.

Have you been enthralled with the hit TV show "Landman", featured on Paramount+?  Spoiler alert....we have!  In this episode, hosts Dave and Kristen explore the hit TV show 'Landman' starring Billy Bob Thornton, delving into the realities of the landman profession. They discuss the differences between landmen and right-of-way agents, the process of leasing minerals, and the negotiations involved. Jim Newcomb, a seasoned landman, shares insights into the industry, including the value of mineral rights and the dangers faced in the field. The conversation also critiques the show's portrayal of landmen, highlighting the blend of realism and Hollywood fiction. In this conversation, Jim Newcomb and Dave Kristen delve into the intricacies of the oil and gas industry, discussing the characters, culture, and realism portrayed in the show 'Landman.' They explore the challenges faced by landmen, the impact of crime, and the dynamics of family relationships within the industry. Through character analysis and personal anecdotes, they provide insights into the realities of working in oil and gas, contrasting it with the dramatized portrayals in media.

This episode was generously made possible by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.

In this special episode, Taralyn Romero, known to some as the 'Wicked Witch of the West', joins Infrastructure Junkies to discuss her tumultuous journey through the maze of property rights after purchasing a home with a creek in Colorado. Taralyn shares her painful experiences being sued by the government and the community backlash she faced for protecting the property rights she rightfully purchased back in 2020. The conversation delves into the legal complexities, the role of social media in her advocacy, and the eventual resolution of her legal battles. Taralyn's story highlights the importance of understanding property rights and the challenges homeowners can face, even when they have no way to know that others will stake a claim to what is theirs. In this conversation, the Real Wicked Witch discusses her journey through a politically charged property rights battle and how it transformed her into an advocate for others facing similar issues. She emphasizes the importance of social media in raising awareness and mobilizing support, while also navigating the complexities of advocacy and the potential for government overreach. The discussion highlights the power of community and the responsibility that comes with using one's voice for change.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.

This episode is all about the International Right of Way Association's Annual Educational Conference to be held in Virginia Beach from June 1-4, 2025.  Hear from Jane White, the City's Director of Destination Services, who gives great insight into why Virginia Beach will be an exciting and fun location for the 2025 conference.  Dave and Kristen are then joined by the conference co-chairs, Carrilin Hirsch and Greg Smith, who give great insight into what to expect from this particular event.  Hear about the host hotels, great restaurants, and all the ins and outs of this event.  Jade Meador then joins the show to offer some insight into schedule and events.  Whether you are a seasoned conference attendee or just considering attendance for the first time, this podcast episode has everything you need to know!

This episode was generously sponsored by Pendulum Land Services, LLC.

In this episode of Infrastructure Junkies, hosts Dave Arnold and Kristen Short discuss the recent changes to the Uniform Relocation Act, focusing on the Final Rule that was implemented after a decade of waiting. They are joined by relocation expert Lisa Harrison of Pinnacle Consulting Management Group, Inc., who provides insights into the distinctions between the federal statute and regulations in the CFR, the implications of the Final Rule, and the new monetary limits for relocation benefits. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding these changes for professionals in the right of way field, the importance of the Annual Educational Conference in Virginia Beach for networking and learning, and the resources available for further information.

Takeaways from this episode:

• Understanding the basics of the Uniform Relocation Act is essential for all right of way professionals.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.  Thank you, Blackbird, for making this episode possible!

How do you get to know the newest leader of the premier right of way trade association?  An interview with Infrastructure Junkies, of course!

In this episode, Dave and Kristen interview Denise Skinner, the incoming International Right of Way Association (IRWA) president. They discuss Denise's motivation for assuming such a significant leadership role within the IRWA and her experience on the International Executive Committee (IEC). Denise shares her perspective on the challenges and rewards of serving on the IEC, including the time commitment and the need to balance work and personal life. She also discusses the changes and improvements she hopes to bring to the association during her term as president. Overall, the conversation highlights the dedication and passion of IRWA members and the importance of strong leadership in the organization. In this conversation, Denise Skinner discusses the upcoming conference in Long Beach and the absence of drama. She also talks about her work on the Strategic Planning Task Force and the accomplishments of the association. The conversation then gets fun when Dave and Kristen attempt to expose any of Denise's "bad tastes" with a spirited round of 20 Questions, covering topics such as hot dog toppings, hidden piercings, favorite pickup lines, and more.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC as well as Pendulum Land Services, LLC.

In this episode of Infrastructure Junkies, your hosts are joined by guests Matt Harris and Ray Mehler to discuss various topics related to right-of-way professionals and pop culture. The first theme discussed is relocation, with the hosts and guests sharing their experiences and insights on becoming relocation experts. The second theme revolves around the final rule, which provides benefits for displaced individuals in federal and federally funded projects. The hosts and guests discuss the changes in the final rule and the potential impact on state relocation acts. The episode also includes pop culture topics involving the movies Back to the Future and Star Trek - The Next Generation, exploring the concept of property rights in the time-space continuum. Pop culture topics also include childhood food memories and the challenges and opportunities of generational differences in the workforce. The hosts discuss their favorite childhood foods, such as SpaghettiOs and Chef Boyardee beef ravioli, and share their experiences with different food products. They also explore the topic of generational wars, particularly the tensions between Gen Z, millennials, Gen X, and boomers. They also discuss the role of attorneys in the right-of-way process and the importance of collaboration and ethical representation. The episode concludes with the topic of umpiring and refereeing in sports, with a focus on the challenges and importance of making fair calls. The hosts share their experiences and perspectives on the role of officials in maintaining the integrity of the game.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, your go to relocation experts in the United States.

The best way to understand why we have our standard eminent domain laws and procedures may be to learn through a good story.

Houston attorney Bobby Debelak of the law firm McDowell Hetherington joins Infrastructure Junkies to tell the story of Robert Moses, who amassed incredible power despite never being elected to a public office. Morris utilized eminent domain to accomplish some of the most amazing infrastructure projects in New York.  During his amazing reign, virtually all of the City, State and Federal infrastructure spending in New York flowed through Moses.  Hear more about his amazing rise to power, projects and controversial legacy.

This episode is graciously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, experts in the Uniform Relocation Act available for projects throughout the United States.