The SEDC Podcast

Live from #SEDC2025 in Oklahoma City, Ray Methvin sits down with Tim Gibbs and Gus Fontenot for a fast, practical look at what is working in the American South. They break down site readiness, workforce, and incentives that truly move projects, with lessons pulled from recent wins. You will hear how regional partners compete hard yet market the South as one powerful brand. If you want candid insight and usable tactics for business ...

On this episode, Matthew welcomes Will Williams, a leader in South Carolina economic development, for a wide-ranging and engaging conversation. Will shares his personal journey, including growing up in Georgetown and leading significant economic development efforts across the state. The discussion highlights South Carolina’s economic transformation, marked by billions in new investments, strategic leadership, and emerging future-fo...

Rob Camoin joins the episode to reflect on his unconventional path into economic development, sparked by a chance encounter while bartending. He explores the rise of remote work, the evolving mission of Camoin Associates, and the South’s growing edge in foreign direct investment. The conversation touches on key industry issues—from housing and childcare challenges to workforce readiness and collaboration between national and state ...

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...

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 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...

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...