Host Matt Tackett speaks with Jeff VanHook, CEO of RGL Regional Industrial Development, about Kentucky's incredible economic momentum. Jeff shares how the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI), a program that secured a $100 million expansion, has fundamentally changed the landscape, driving regional collaboration and attracting nearly $5 billion in capital investment. He highlights the successful development of the Rock Castle Mega site and the recruitment of companies like Chapin International as proof of this collaborative, site-ready approach.

The discussion emphasizes the power of regional partnerships and Jeff's focus on removing development barriers, leveraging Kentucky's strategic location and workforce to create jobs. They conclude that a commitment to proactive site development is delivering generational opportunities and positioning the entire region for substantial, sustained growth.

The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

On this episode of the SEDC Podcast, we sit down with Robert Allen, President and CEO of the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership, to unpack the strategy behind the city’s landmark growth. Having recently surpassed Austin to become the 11th largest city in America, Fort Worth serves as a prime example of successful, strategic economic development in the American South.

Robert shares insights from his career, including his time in Texas state leadership, and details the execution of transformative projects like the $600 million Bell initiative and a new UTA West Campus. He discusses Fort Worth's commitment to reliability and authenticity, stressing that honesty and follow-through are the foundations of attracting and retaining high-value investment.

Economic development professionals will gain actionable strategies on fostering regional collaboration, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses, and maintaining the aggressive focus necessary to identify and secure long-term opportunities that benefit the community for decades.The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Jeff Bischoff, Chief Sales Officer at Gray, as he shares his 30-year journey from his early days with the Southern Economic Development Council to leading Gray through massive growth (from $165 million to over $5 billion in revenue). We dive deep into the American South’s competitive edge, from its infrastructure to the collaborative 'Team American South' strategy. Jeff discusses the unique value of Gray’s design-build model, current FDI trends, the impact of the data center boom, and the future of manufacturing investment in the region. Plus, get his take on leadership, mentorship, and the rising role of AI in economic development.

The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join Matthew Tackett as he welcomes April Mason, President and Founder of the acclaimed public relations firm Violet PR, for a masterclass on the power of shaping a community's narrative. April shares her compelling journey into the field, which began with a pivotal internship at the Kansas City Area Development Council and led to the launch of her own agency specializing in economic development. The conversation focuses on the critical need for intentional PR strategies to control a region's story in the age of AI, highlighting how proactive communications and earned media can help communities stand out and attract investment.

This episode is packed with actionable advice, as April provides expert tips on everything from media training for spokespersons to effectively leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube. Listeners will learn strategies for measuring the impact of positive news coverage and hear about the stunning success of a campaign that positioned Buffalo, New York as a climate change haven. Blending high-level strategy with engaging reflections on the growth of cities like Oklahoma City, this discussion offers invaluable insights for any economic development professional looking to enhance their media presence.

This podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join SEDC President Matthew Tackett as he sits down with Kristina Slattery, Commissioner of Business and Community Development at the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, for an in-depth look at the state's economic success. Kristina shares her unique journey into public service and provides insight into the mission-driven approach of her team. They discuss Kentucky's multifaceted strategy, which leverages its strategic location with major infrastructure projects, a focus on business retention in key sectors like automotive, and an aggressive "speed to market" approach that has successfully attracted major investments, including the transformative Blue Oval SK project with Ford.

The conversation explores the tangible results of innovative programs like the Product Development Initiative (PDI), which has spurred approximately $1.4 billion in tracked investment by preparing local communities for growth. Matthew and Kristina also highlight the critical role of strong gubernatorial leadership, from the legacy of Governor Martha Lane Collins' recruitment of Toyota to Governor Andy Beshear's current engagement. From high-level strategy to the cultural and economic impact of the bourbon industry, this episode celebrates the collaborative spirit and pride driving the Bluegrass State forward.

This podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join host Matt Tackett on the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC) Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Pete Fullerton, one of the nation's most respected economic developers. Dr. Pete reflects on his remarkable 38-year career, from his serendipitous start in the field to his recent role leading transformative commercial development at the new Kansas City International Airport. As a long-time SEDC member, he shares the core principles and pivotal moments that have defined his journey of impact and leadership.

The discussion explores the evolution of the economic development profession and the crucial importance of mentorship, a commitment for which Dr. Pete recently received the prestigious Mike Philpo Award. He offers practical insights on navigating modern challenges like talent attraction, the AI revolution, and disaster preparedness. This episode is a masterclass in persistence and strategy, offering invaluable lessons for professionals at every stage of their careers.

The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join expert economic development consultant Alysia Cook, retail strategist Tyler Sudderth, and special guest Kelly Bowers for a live conversation from the Southern Economic Development Council conference.

In this insightful episode, these three professionals share their on-the-ground takeaways from #SEDC2025 in Oklahoma City. They'll discuss the critical role of community and strategic planning, the latest trends in retail recruitment, and the intersection of these fields in driving economic growth. From navigating the complexities of modern development to finding practical solutions for local communities, this conversation provides a diverse set of perspectives.

Tune in for an engaging and informative recap that offers actionable insights from some of the industry's most active voices.

The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join us for a dynamic live broadcast from the Southern Economic Development Council conference, featuring two of the industry's most respected leaders: Joe Hines and Lacey Beasley.

In this exclusive conversation, Joe Hines—a recognized expert in site selection and infrastructure—teams up with Lacey Beasley, President of Retail Strategies, to unpack the biggest themes and most actionable insights from #SEDC2025. They provide a unique dual perspective on how to build thriving communities, from preparing a site for a major industrial project to attracting the right mix of retail and restaurants.

Whether you're focused on large-scale development or community placemaking, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the strategies that will drive growth across the American South.

The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join newly-elected 2026 SEDC Chairman, Tim Weston, and Tulsa Regional Chamber's Vice President of Business Development, Stacy Smith, for an exclusive live conversation from the heart of the Southern Economic Development Council conference.

In this special episode, they offer an inside look at the most impactful moments and strategic discussions at #SEDC2025 in Oklahoma City. Tim and Stacy provide expert commentary on key sessions, from the latest in regional collaboration and workforce innovation to the strategies driving economic growth across the American South. They discuss their takeaways and share insights on the future of the industry from their unique leadership perspectives.

Whether you attended the conference or are simply looking to get up to speed, this episode is your essential guide to the ideas and initiatives shaping economic development today.

The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.

Join retail recruitment expert Kyle Cofer and economic development professional Rue Ramsey for a special live broadcast from the Southern Economic Development Council conference in Oklahoma City.

In this episode, they break down the most impactful sessions and discussions from the conference floor, offering their unique perspectives on the latest trends in retail attraction, community placemaking, and business development. Kyle and Rue share actionable insights on how communities can leverage retail to drive broader economic growth, straight from the heart of #SEDC2025.

Whether you're an economic developer, a city planner, or a business leader, this conversation is packed with expert analysis and real-world strategies that can help you create more vibrant and resilient communities.

The SEDC Podcast is sponsored by Insyteful.