The SEDC Podcast
The official Podcast of the Southern Economic Development Council. Tune in for fun, informative, and sometimes off-the-wall conversations with #AmericanSouth leaders.
Episodes
The Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC) podcast returns with an engaging episode previewing the upcoming SEDC annual conference in Oklahoma City, held August 10-12. Host Matt Tackett is joined by economic development leaders Jana Dyke, Andrea Anderson, and Maggie Froman, who share insights into planning this year’s event, highlight key sessions—including a groundbreaking agriculture-focused panel—and discuss a unique new p...
In the final episode from the 2025 #AmericanSouth Site Selection Summit, host Ray Methvin is joined by Susan Donkers for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, adaptability, and what’s next for economic development in the South. With insights drawn from real-world experience and a passion for place-based strategy, Susan shares lessons learned and inspiring perspectives on how practitioners can continue to elevate their impact.The...
Join host Ray Methvin on the SEDC Podcast as he sits down with Tim Weston and John Bozek for a candid conversation on site selection trends, regional growth strategies, and what’s next for economic development in the American South.The SEDC Podcast is Sponsored by Insyteful.
In this episode, host Ray Methvin sits down with Joe Hines and Marcus Taylor to explore how communities across the South can move from planning to execution. From site readiness and infrastructure investment to building trust with stakeholders, they discuss the nuts and bolts of preparing for growth — and the strategies that turn potential into projects. The SEDC Podcast is Sponsored by Insyteful.
What does it take to future-proof communities in a rapidly shifting economic landscape? In this episode, host Ray Methvin welcomes Tim Gibbs and Chris Lloyd for a forward-thinking conversation on innovation, infrastructure, and investment trends shaping the next chapter of the #AmericanSouth. From megaproject readiness to regional strategy, they explore how economic developers can stay ahead of the curve and create lasting value.Th...
In this episode, host Ray Methvin is joined by Lyle Roggow and Mark Litten for a deep dive into what it takes to position communities for long-term economic success. From cultivating strong local leadership to creating shovel-ready sites and telling compelling stories to prospects, they share practical strategies and proven approaches that drive real impact across the Southern region.
In this episode of the SEDC Podcast, host Ray Methvin sits down with Lori Hughley, Valerie Gray, and Jim Byard for a candid conversation on the realities, challenges, and opportunities facing economic developers across the American South. From workforce to policy, and from rural innovation to regional collaboration, these seasoned professionals share real-world insights and lessons learned from the front lines of economic developme...
Host Ray Methvin has conversations with Scott Martinez and Larkin Simpson, two influential voices in the Southern Economic Development Council. Together, they dive into the forces shaping investment decisions, regional competitiveness, and what’s next for site selection across the American South.
The SEDC Podcast is Sponsored by Insyteful.
Join host Ray Methvin for a dynamic conversation from the 2025 #AmericanSouth Site Selection Summit. In this episode, Ray is joined by industry leaders David McNamara and Greg Word to explore emerging trends, strategic insights, and what’s ahead for site selection and economic development across the South.The SEDC Podcast is Sponsored by Insyteful.
Join host Ray Methvin for a dynamic opening conversation of the 2025 #AmericanSouth Site Selection Summit. In this special episode, Ray is joined by industry leaders Jana Dyke and Matt Francis to explore emerging trends, strategic insights, and what’s ahead for site selection and economic development across the South.
The SEDC Podcast is Sponsored by Insyteful.
In this episode, SEDC President Matthew Tackett sits down with Lucas Witt, founding partner of MWM Consulting, to explore his unexpected path into economic development—from early startup work to a key role at the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and the launch of his own firm. They discuss Kentucky’s momentum in site readiness, the success of the Product Development Initiative, and trends like power availability and rezoni...
In this episode, Matt sits down with Mandy Mitchell, President and CEO of the Lafayette Economic Development Authority, to talk about how Louisiana made the most of the Super Bowl to attract new business and highlight its economic strengths.
They discuss the state’s major developments, from significant venture capital investments to workforce development and the rebranding of the Louisiana Economic Alliance for Development (LEAD). M...
Join Matthew Tackett as he chats with Bruce Tackefman from Research FDI about their global impact on economic development, from FDI certification to clean tech opportunities in the American South. They dive into what’s driving international investment, the importance of partnerships, and how to market effectively. Along the way, they share laughs over New Year’s celebrations, dream jobs, and even a debate about sports favorites. It...
In this episode, Bill Cork, Executive Director of the Mississippi Development Authority, highlights the state’s $21 billion in investments and 20,000 new jobs since 2021. He attributes this success to Mississippi’s strategic leadership, geographic advantages, and Southern hospitality, offering listeners a look at how collaboration drives transformative growth.
Bill also shares his career journey, from the Marine Corps to billion-...
In this special holiday episode, the legendary Santa Claus takes center stage! Listeners will hear exclusive stories from Santa's workshop about innovation, workforce development, and global logistics strategies that make his annual operations successful. From managing a highly skilled team of elves to optimizing his distribution network for same-night delivery, Santa's approach to supply chain management is sure to inspire and ent...
Season 2 Episode 2 | Clint O’Neal Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission
Join us for an engaging conversation with Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, as he shares his insights into driving growth and innovation in the Natural State. From fostering industry partnerships to unlocking the potential of communities, Clint discusses the strategies shaping Arkansas’s economic future.
Plus, don’t miss the fun as Clint takes on our signature hot seat segment!
Tune i...
Join Matt Tackett and Tyler Chaffee of TVA as they dive into their journeys in economic development, sharing both personal and professional insights. In this episode, they explore their roles in driving regional growth, the rapid changes shaping the South, and the critical role of collaboration and relationship-building in their field. You'll also hear candid stories from their conference experiences, thoughts on their favorite air...
The SEDC Podcast Presented by Insyteful is live at the Council's Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia. Scarlett Darius, Daughter of SEDC Director of Operations Matthew Darius, had fun playing with the Podcast equipment. Blooper Reel ahead!
The SEDC Podcast Presented by Insyteful is live at the Council's Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia. Ashley Llewellyn from the St. Tammany Corp joins us to host and welcome Kelli Kedis Ogborn from the Space Foundation and Alexander MacDonald from NASA.
The SEDC Podcast Presented by Insyteful is live at the Council's Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia. Ashley Llewellyn from the St. Tammany Corp joins us to host and welcome Myrah Johnson, daughter of SEDC Communications Committee Chair Kevin Johnson.
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