Explore every episode of the podcast Building Connections, The ULI Charlotte Podcast

In this episode recorded in late April 2025, we take a deep dive into the evolving retail landscape, from national capital trends to the local shifts happening across Charlotte. Host Brian Purcell, Partner at Cuadra Capital, is joined by Katie Grissom of Nuveen, who brings a national macroeconomic lens, and Charles Thrift of Thrift Commercial Real Estate Services, who offers deep insights into Charlotte’s local retail scene. Together, they explore: Why capital is finally flowing back into the retail sector and what’s fueling the resurgence How demographic shifts and consumer behavior are shaping investment strategies The unique tenant mix and leasing activity transforming Charlotte neighborhoods Policy and permitting hurdles impacting local business owners An insider perspective on the Commonwealth project and its impact on the future of Charlotte retail Whether you’re an investor, developer, or simply passionate about urban growth, this episode offers fresh perspective on how retail is bouncing back and what it means for the Queen City.

Tune in as we explore the evolution of Charlotte with former ULI Charlotte Chair Peter A. Pappas and Chair-Elect Rachel Krenz. We discuss how ULI has helped shape Charlotte’s growth, influencing key developments like the light rail and setting the bar for smart urban planning. Looking ahead, we’ll discuss the creation of transformative projects while maintaining affordability, fostering resiliency, and reinventing Uptown. Our guests share insights on leadership, development trends, and how ULI continues to drive change. Learn how you can get involved in shaping Charlotte’s next chapter!

In this debut episode of Building Connections: The ULI Charlotte Podcast, we examine the lasting impact of Hurricane Helene on communities west of Charlotte and across Western North Carolina. This once-in-a-thousand-year storm left a devastating mark on infrastructure, housing, and local economies, prompting swift response efforts from government agencies, relief organizations, and industry leaders.

Charlotte is growing faster than ever, but how will we keep the city moving? In this episode of Building Connections, host Tracy Dodson sits down with Ned Curran and David Howard to unpack the upcoming 2025 Mecklenburg County Transportation Referendum. From the history of Charlotte’s transportation planning to the challenges of North Carolina’s state-controlled road network, they explore why new funding tools are being proposed and what better mobility could mean for congestion relief, development, and the region’s future growth. With 36,000 cars being added to our roads every year, Ned, David and Tracy discuss the need for a clear plan to manage that increase. This conversation goes beyond headlines to give you the context and clarity you need on one of Mecklenburg County’s biggest decisions.

In this episode of Building Connections, land use expert and host Bridget Grant sits down with developers Welch Liles (Asana Partners) and Brendan Pierce (Crescent Communities) to take listeners inside the full life cycle of a real estate development. From shaping a vision and engaging the community to navigating site selection, capital constraints, rezoning battles, impacts of AI and design pivots, they share what it really takes to bring a project to life in today’s market. Along the way, they discuss how placemaking adds lasting value and why adaptability matters more than ever.

In this episode of Building Connections, guest host Mike Ortlip sits down with Matt Martin, Regional Executive at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Charlotte Branch. They discuss the Federal Reserve’s role in the economy, monetary policy, and interest rates and explore how national decisions ripple through to the Carolinas' real estate market, workforce and rural development. From cash circulation during disasters to the economic future of small towns, Matt offers grounded insights for real estate professionals, policymakers, and community leaders navigating a time of market uncertainty and opportunity.

In this episode, host Tobe Holmes goes in-depth with futurist and real estate innovator Nikki Greenberg to explore how technology is reshaping the spaces where we live, work and play. From drone deliveries to AI-driven real estate management, Nikki offers a dynamic look at what’s coming and how developers and planners can prepare today. They also discuss generational shifts, regulatory hurdles and bringing a local lens to global trends. Whether you're fascinated by emerging tech or planning your next big project, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about the future of urban and suburban life.