Constructing the Carolinas

15. Eastbound & Thriving: Building the Future of Eastern North Carolina

Join us for an inspiring conversation about the momentum transforming Eastern North Carolina with three leaders at the forefront of the region’s growth: Benton Moss, CEO of Simmons and Harris and host of the Twin County Spotlight podcast; Bob Pike, President & CEO of Carolina’s Gateway Partnership; and Susan Phelps, Economic Development Manager for Nash County. From downtown revitalizations and workforce housing to megasite development and industrial recruitment, our guests share how collaboration between developers, municipalities, and residents is creating a more connected, competitive, and vibrant region. We discuss the investments attracting both families and businesses, the critical role of infrastructure and workforce development, and the vision for communities where people can live, work, and play. Whether you’re interested in economic development, commercial real estate, or the future of North Carolina’s growth corridors, this episode offers an inside look at the partnerships and projects shaping the Twin Counties and beyond. Constructing the Carolinas is brought to you by Barnhill Contracting Company, which has been Constructing the Carolinas since 1949, hosted by Valerie Bono, and produced by Walk West. Barnhill is HIRING for Professional, Trade, and CDL Opportunities – https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/ [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/] Barnhill is HIRING for Professional, Trade, and CDL Opportunities [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/] - https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/

14. CRE Pulse: Adaptability & Insights with Brandt Berry of Cushman & Wakefield

Join us as we explore the dynamic world of commercial real estate with Brandt Berry, a Senior Associate at Cushman & Wakefield. Based in Raleigh-Durham, Brandt specializes in the sale of office, industrial, retail, and flex properties across the Triangle region.   In this episode, Brandt shares his journey into commercial real estate and discusses the current trends shaping the market. He emphasizes the critical roles of adaptability and creativity in successfully navigating today's economic landscape.   We'll dive into the nuances of buyer and seller dynamics, explore the increasing popularity of sale-leasebacks, and discuss key considerations for companies planning their next real estate move.   Constructing the Carolinas is brought to you by Barnhill Contracting Company, which has been Constructing the Carolinas since 1949, hosted by Valerie Bono, and produced by Walk West.   Barnhill is HIRING for Professional, Trade, and CDL Opportunities - https://www.barnhillbuilt.com/careers/ [https://www.barnhillbuilt.com/careers/]   Barnhill is HIRING for Professional, Trade, and CDL Opportunities [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/] - https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/

13. Barnhill's Blueprint for Success: A Case Study in Seamless Succession

Join us for a pivotal episode highlighting a significant leadership transition at Barnhill. After an incredible career that helped shape our operations and culture, we bid a fond farewell to Barry Harden, VP of Operations, as he embarks on a well-deserved retirement. But as one chapter closes, another begins! We’ll introduce and speak with Brad Martin, who’s stepping into Barry’s shoes as the new VP of Operations. This episode not only honors Barry’s remarkable legacy and the profound impact of his mentorship, but also looks forward to the next generation of leadership under Brad. Tune in to hear inspiring stories from Barry’s years at Barnhill and discover Brad’s strategic vision for Barnhill’s continued success! Barnhill is HIRING for Professional, Trade, and CDL Opportunities [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/] - https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/

12. Fire Safety and Disaster Response in NC, with Chief Taylor

In this insightful episode, we had the distinct honor of diving into the crucial world of fire safety, emergency response, and disaster preparedness with none other than Chief Brian Taylor, North Carolina State Fire Marshal.   With decades of invaluable experience in the fire service, Chief Taylor has been instrumental in shaping the very regulations that keep our communities safe. He's a driving force behind the support of our local fire departments and the spearheading of training initiatives that equip our first responders for the most demanding situations. This episode explores several critical areas, including the ongoing challenges of firefighter recruitment and retention, a topic vital to ensuring the continued strength of our emergency services. Chief Taylor also shed light on the groundbreaking development of the North Carolina Emergency Training Center – proudly built by Barnhill - a facility poised to revolutionize how our first responders prepare for the unexpected.   The conversation also delves into the exciting world of fire safety technology and how the latest advancements are directly contributing to saving lives. Beyond immediate fire response, we gained an inside look at the comprehensive strategies North Carolina employs to prepare for and respond to a range of crises, from natural disasters to structural fires and large-scale emergencies.   We also discuss our profound appreciation for the heroes who stand ready to protect us and the tireless work being done behind the scenes to ensure our safety and well-being. It's a conversation that underscores the vital intersection of infrastructure, preparedness, and the unwavering dedication of individuals like Chief Taylor.   Resources & Links: * Office of State Fire Marshal: https://www.ncosfm.gov/ [https://www.ncosfm.gov/] * NC Emergency Training Center: https://www.ncosfm.gov/nc-emergency-training-center-etc [https://www.ncosfm.gov/nc-emergency-training-center-etc] Constructing the Carolinas is brought to you by Barnhill Contracting Company [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/], which has been Constructing the Carolinas since 1949, hosted by Valerie Bono [https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-bono/], and produced by Walk West [https://www.walkwest.com/]. Barnhill is HIRING for Professional, Trade, and CDL Opportunities [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/] - https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/

11. County to Town: Managing Explosive Growth in Wake and Wendell

Wake County, experiencing explosive growth over the past decade, and Wendell, a town that has nearly tripled in size in just six years, offer unique perspectives on the challenges and strategies involved in balancing infrastructure, economic development, and community identity   In this episode of Constructing the Carolinas, host Valerie Bono sits down with County Manager of Wake County David Ellis and Town Manager of Wendell Marc Collins, to dive deep into the intricate world of local government growth management. They’ll discuss: * The nuances of county and municipal collaboration in managing rapid growth. * How local leaders balance infrastructure development with preserving community character. * The importance of strategic planning in navigating explosive expansion. * The challenges of managing economic development while ensuring sustainable growth. * Insights into the daily life of a town and county manager. Resources & Links: * Wake County Government: wake.gov [https://www.wake.gov] * Town of Wendell: townofwendellnc.gov [https://www.townofwendellnc.gov] * Wake County Economic Development: raleigh-wake.org [https://www.raleigh-wake.org] * Barnhill Contracting Company: barnhillcontracting.com [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com] Constructing the Carolinas is brought to you by Barnhill Contracting Company [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/], which has been Constructing the Carolinas since 1949, hosted by Valerie Bono [https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-bono/], and produced by Walk West [https://www.walkwest.com]. Barnhill is HIRING for Professional, Trade, and CDL Opportunities [https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/] - https://www.barnhillcontracting.com/careers/