Podcast
DevelopLex
Hosted by Middle Tech · EN
DevelopLex is a podcast diving into the ins & outs of real estate development and investing here in Lexington, Kentucky. This series will feature interviews with some of Lexington's most prominent real estate developers that have played a major role in building Lexington into what it is today.
21episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
74. Donald Miller, Ben Shaffer, Carter Bishop, & David Dean: Making Gatton Park a Reality
Jul 3, 202500:29:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we partnered with Downtown Lexington Partnership to host another Downtown Deep Dive, presented by Dean Builds. This time, with the visionaries behind Gatton Park on the Town Branch - Lexington’s most ambitious public space project to date. Recorded overlooking the park’s soon-to-be-unveiled amphitheater, this conversation dives into the decade-long journey from asphalt lot to iconic green space.Guests:David Dean, President of Dean BuildsBen Schaffer, Senior Director of Advancement & Special Events, Gatton ParkDonald Miller, Park Director, Gatton ParkBishop Carter, Owner of Elaine AllenHosted by Weston Lockhart & Ross BoggessDevelopLex is proud to be supported by:SVN Stone Commercial Real EstateCommunity Trust BankCraftsman Contractors Bowman
Transcribe →65. Didi Caldwell and Jeff Bischoff: Inside the World of Site Selection and Economic Development
Feb 20, 202500:42:37Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Ross and Weston sit down with Didi Caldwell and Jeff Bischoff during the Commerce Lexington Regional Summit. Didi Caldwell is the President and CEO of Global Location Strategies, a leading site selection and incentive negotiation firms for manufacturing and industrial companies.Jeff Bischoff is the Chief Sales Officer as Gray Construction, a Lexington, Kentucky-based design-build firm specializing in engineering, architecture, and construction services for industrial, commercial, and food and beverage manufacturing projects.Their discussion covers key trends in economic development, the site selection process, and what makes a region competitive for jobs in today’s landscape. We hope you enjoy the discussion!Hosted by Weston Lockhart & Ross BoggessDevelopLex is proud to be supported by:SVN Stone Commercial Real EstateCommunity Trust Bank
Transcribe →64. Weston, Ross, and Logan Jones Kickoff Season 5
Feb 6, 202500:39:24Tap to summarizeWe are back for season 5! We’ve spent the off season hard at work and have some fun updates to share, along with some exciting news from the team. Today, we welcome Logan Jones onto the podcast. You might know Logan from Middle Tech - our sister brand - but recently, Logan has decided to go full time to help us grow both brands. We’re incredibly excited to have Logan captaining the ship for us, so we wanted to sit down together and talk about the year ahead. Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister
Transcribe →63. Ted Abernathy on Economic Insights and Regional Growth
Dec 5, 202400:20:51Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Ted Abernathy at the Hyatt downtown during the Central Kentucky regional summit. Ted, the managing partner of a consultancy based in North Carolina, discusses economic forecasts for Kentucky's nine regions and dives deep into local Lexington. He shares insights on economic strategies, labor force dynamics, and regional competitiveness. Key topics include population growth, housing affordability, and the impact of urban service boundaries. Ted also explores factors influencing people's decision to move and how Lexington can enhance its attractiveness to new residents. Join us for a data-rich conversation on the future of economic development in Lexington and beyond. Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Craftsmen Contractors Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Context 00:41 Meet Ted Abernathy 02:12 Economic Insights from the Summit 02:50 Challenges and Opportunities for Lexington 03:59 Factors Influencing Population Growth 04:59 Commercial Real Estate in Lexington 05:49 Key Competitiveness Factors 08:55 Housing Affordability and Supply 18:04 Regionalism and Collaboration
Transcribe →62. Landry Fields on How Insurance and Real Estate Collide
Oct 23, 202400:51:02Tap to summarizeLandry is the owner and CEO of Nova Insurance Group an independent insurance agency specializing in commercial property, franchises and businesses with 20+employees. He grew up in Central KY and currently lives in Versailles with his wife and 3 kids. He began investing in real estate multi family units and apartments due to the connections and insights he learned from his podcast called Keys to the Commonwealth that focuses on real estate investors and business entrepreneurs in the state of Kentucky. IG: @landryfields_www.novainsurancegroup.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/landryfields/ Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Craftsmen Contractors Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister
Transcribe →61. Ross & Weston October Roundtable
Oct 15, 202400:41:20Tap to summarizeDon’t mind the birds chirping in the background… Ross and Weston chose to record this episode on the Urban Service Boundary Line. In this episode, they covered takeaways and guest quotes for the season best third places in Lexington what do you miss about Lexington why this setting for this episode? We have a fun next few episodes coming up to end the season, so tune in! Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Craftsmen Contractors Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister
Transcribe →60. Griff Van Meter: Creative Force Behind the Bluegrass
Sep 26, 202401:05:02Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Weston sits down with Griffin Vanmeter, a creative force behind some of Lexington's most iconic projects, including Kentucky for Kentucky and the Night Market. Griff shares his passion for bringing joy and weirdness to every idea, and we delve into his background, from his early days to his current endeavors. We discuss the importance of nostalgia, community development, and the role of parks in economic growth. Griff also shares his excitement about current initiatives, including the Parks Initiative, and his vision for the future of Lexington. See what Griff has been up to YES FOR PARKS! KY For KY Bullhorn Creative Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Craftsmen Contractors Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister
Transcribe →59. Jim Gray on Building a Great American City
Sep 12, 202400:40:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we have an enlightening conversation with Jim Gray, Secretary of Transportation for Kentucky and former mayor of Lexington. Jim shares his personal journey from growing up in Glasgow, Kentucky, to rising through the ranks in public service. He reflects on his vision for Lexington, including transformative projects like the Town Branch Park, the restoration of historic buildings, and the creation of a vibrant urban core. Jim also discusses his role in major state initiatives such as handling COVID-19 vaccine distribution, disaster response, and significant transportation projects. This episode provides a deep dive into city planning, public service, and the importance of quality of life and place in building a great American city. Checkout Driving Lexington Progress Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Craftsmen Contractors 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:27 Jim Gray's Early Life and Inspirations 04:04 Role as Secretary of Transportation 05:11 Handling Natural Disasters and COVID-19 10:24 Leadership and Vision for Lexington 14:41 Challenges and Achievements as Mayor 22:12 Future Projects and Urban Development 30:51 Transportation Initiatives and Innovations 35:55 Acknowledging the Team and Public Service 39:19 Conclusion and Gratitude Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister
Transcribe →58. DevelopLex Live with Chad Walker and Chad Needham
Aug 29, 202400:37:15Tap to summarizeIn this live event episode of Develop Lex, hosts engage in a dynamic conversation with infill developers Chad Walker and Chad Needham. The event, held at Eppings, explores key urban development challenges and opportunities in Lexington. The discussion covers zoning issues, unique project experiences, and the importance of infill development in revitalizing underutilized areas. Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Craftsmen Contractors Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister
Transcribe →57. Mitch Barnhart on the Evolution of UK Athletics and Lexington's Growth
Aug 15, 202400:42:21Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we have an exciting interview with Mitch Barnhart, Athletics Director at the University of Kentucky. Mitch discusses his journey to Lexington and the significant changes the city and the university have undergone over the years. He delves into the transformation of UK's athletic facilities, the impact of sports business, and the importance of engaging the community. Mitch also highlights the unique relationship between UK and Lexington, emphasizing the vital role the university plays in the city's development and culture. Additionally, Mitch shares personal insights on his tenure and future aspirations, making this a must-watch for those interested in the intersection of athletics, education, and urban growth. 00:00 Introduction to Develop Lex 00:05 Interview with Mitch Barnhart Begins 00:26 The Role of Athletics in Lexington's Development 01:21 Mitch Barnhart's Background and Journey 01:52 The Evolution of Sports Business 07:19 The Unique Integration of Sports and Education 08:07 Sponsorship Message from SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate 08:57 Changes in Athletics Administration Over 22 Years 14:12 Facility Upgrades and Their Impact 19:44 University of Kentucky's Community Integration 22:55 Impact of Campus Development on Local Economy 23:34 Preserving Lexington's Unique Vibe 24:31 Balancing University Priorities 24:57 Master Plan and Facility Upgrades 27:58 Funding and Financial Strategies 32:37 Future Projects and Innovations 36:25 Personal Reflections and Community Involvement 40:17 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Subscribe to the DevelopLex newsletter here Hosted by Weston Lockhart and Ross Boggess DevelopLex is proud to be supported by: Community Trust Bank SVN Stone Commercial Real Estate Craftsmen Contractors Learn more about Middle Tech and our network of shows at MiddleTech.com Intro music by SmithTheMister
Transcribe →