Explore every episode of the podcast Infrastructure Junkies! Exploring Eminent Domain, Right of Way, and Infrastructure Development (formerly The Pendulum Land Podcast)

In this episode, Dave and Kristen sit down with Dan Bucan, the incoming president of the International Right of Way Association (IRWA), for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, service, and what’s ahead for the association. Dan reflects on his long IRWA journey, which began in the mid-1990s after attending luncheons while working for PennDOT. He shares how he never imagined he’d one day be leading the entire organization, and talks about the experience that shaped him through region leadership, the IEC, and years of listening, learning, and serving members. The conversation explores Dan’s priorities as president: keeping politics out of the association, elevating member-driven ideas, and launching task forces to move good initiatives forward instead of letting them stall. He also opens up about the kind of leader he wants to be — decisive, collaborative, and committed to recognizing the volunteers who keep IRWA running. Dave and Kristen also revisit their shared history with Dan, including old chapter meetings, the “Bucan Rule,” and the path that led Dan to run from the floor for IEC. The episode closes with a look ahead to the Omaha conference, the upcoming presidential term, and a hopeful vision for stronger connection across the IRWA community.

The International Right of Way Association just concluded its 71st Annual Educational Conference in Virginia Beach this June. Koby Godwin took the reins as the brand new president of the IRWA and joins the Infrastructure Junkies to discuss his journey through right of way industry leadership.  Koby gives his personalize recap of the Virginia Beach conference, discusses his rise through the ranks of the IRWA, the joys and frustrations of taking this role as a Canadian, and his plans for the future.  Don't worry, Dave and Kristen have all kinds of commentary on Canadian pop culture in this friendly good natured discussion!

In this episode, Infrastructure Junkies! hosts Dave Arnold and Kristen Short engage with guests Anthony DellaPelle and Ross Greene to explore the significance of the prestigious CRE (Counselors of Real Estate) certification. They discuss the rigorous application process, the multidisciplinary nature of the organization, and the value of networking among top-tier real estate professionals. They examine how the CRE certification demonstrates commitment to the real estate industry. The conversation also delves into the CRE Consulting Corps initiative, which provides pro bono consulting services to communities in need, and concludes with a light-hearted discussion about New Jersey's cryptids. Further in this conversation, the hosts and guests explore a variety of topics ranging from local legends and cryptids to the nuances of real estate practices. They delve into the ongoing debate of Taylor Ham versus pork roll, discuss the CRE's annual top 10 issues that impact real estate, and examine how political changes and tariffs can affect infrastructure projects. The conversation also highlights the unique community aspect of the CRE, including their band, Sound Counsel, which adds a fun twist to their professional gatherings.

Takeaways

CRE is a unique, multidisciplinary organization with over 60 professions represented. Membership is by invitation only, making it exclusive and prestigious. The application process for CRE is rigorous and requires substantial proof of expertise. Networking within CRE can significantly enhance professional practice and client service. The CRE Consulting Corps provides valuable pro bono services to communities facing real estate challenges. Members of CRE often form meaningful relationships that extend beyond professional networking. The organization has a strong international presence, enhancing its resources and expertise. Volunteering for CRE initiatives allows members to give back to the community while utilizing their skills. The CRE Consulting Corps has tackled various real estate issues, including disaster relief and urban planning. New Jersey has a rich lore of cryptids, adding a unique cultural aspect to the conversation.  The discussion of local legends like the Jersey Devil adds a humorous touch to the conversation. The Taylor Ham vs. pork roll debate reflects regional pride and identity in New Jersey. The CRE's top 10 issues list is a valuable resource for real estate professionals. Political changes can significantly impact the real estate market and infrastructure projects. Tariffs can lead to unexpected costs in large infrastructure projects. The CRE band, Sound Counsel, showcases the community spirit within the organization. Understanding the nuances of real estate practices is essential for effective advocacy. Networking and sharing knowledge within the CRE can enhance professional growth. The importance of staying informed about geopolitical issues affecting real estate. The camaraderie among CRE members is evident in their shared interests beyond work.

This episode was generously sponsored by The Right of Way / Eminent Domain Practice Group at Pender & Coward, P.C.

Have you been enthralled with the hit TV show "Landman", featured on Paramount+?  Spoiler alert....we have!  In this episode, hosts Dave and Kristen explore the hit TV show 'Landman' starring Billy Bob Thornton, delving into the realities of the landman profession. They discuss the differences between landmen and right-of-way agents, the process of leasing minerals, and the negotiations involved. Jim Newcomb, a seasoned landman, shares insights into the industry, including the value of mineral rights and the dangers faced in the field. The conversation also critiques the show's portrayal of landmen, highlighting the blend of realism and Hollywood fiction. In this conversation, Jim Newcomb and Dave Kristen delve into the intricacies of the oil and gas industry, discussing the characters, culture, and realism portrayed in the show 'Landman.' They explore the challenges faced by landmen, the impact of crime, and the dynamics of family relationships within the industry. Through character analysis and personal anecdotes, they provide insights into the realities of working in oil and gas, contrasting it with the dramatized portrayals in media.

This episode was generously made possible by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.

In this special episode, Taralyn Romero, known to some as the 'Wicked Witch of the West', joins Infrastructure Junkies to discuss her tumultuous journey through the maze of property rights after purchasing a home with a creek in Colorado. Taralyn shares her painful experiences being sued by the government and the community backlash she faced for protecting the property rights she rightfully purchased back in 2020. The conversation delves into the legal complexities, the role of social media in her advocacy, and the eventual resolution of her legal battles. Taralyn's story highlights the importance of understanding property rights and the challenges homeowners can face, even when they have no way to know that others will stake a claim to what is theirs. In this conversation, the Real Wicked Witch discusses her journey through a politically charged property rights battle and how it transformed her into an advocate for others facing similar issues. She emphasizes the importance of social media in raising awareness and mobilizing support, while also navigating the complexities of advocacy and the potential for government overreach. The discussion highlights the power of community and the responsibility that comes with using one's voice for change.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.

This episode is all about the International Right of Way Association's Annual Educational Conference to be held in Virginia Beach from June 1-4, 2025.  Hear from Jane White, the City's Director of Destination Services, who gives great insight into why Virginia Beach will be an exciting and fun location for the 2025 conference.  Dave and Kristen are then joined by the conference co-chairs, Carrilin Hirsch and Greg Smith, who give great insight into what to expect from this particular event.  Hear about the host hotels, great restaurants, and all the ins and outs of this event.  Jade Meador then joins the show to offer some insight into schedule and events.  Whether you are a seasoned conference attendee or just considering attendance for the first time, this podcast episode has everything you need to know!

This episode was generously sponsored by Pendulum Land Services, LLC.

In this episode of Infrastructure Junkies, hosts Dave Arnold and Kristen Short discuss the recent changes to the Uniform Relocation Act, focusing on the Final Rule that was implemented after a decade of waiting. They are joined by relocation expert Lisa Harrison of Pinnacle Consulting Management Group, Inc., who provides insights into the distinctions between the federal statute and regulations in the CFR, the implications of the Final Rule, and the new monetary limits for relocation benefits. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding these changes for professionals in the right of way field, the importance of the Annual Educational Conference in Virginia Beach for networking and learning, and the resources available for further information.

Takeaways from this episode:

• Understanding the basics of the Uniform Relocation Act is essential for all right of way professionals.
• The recent changes are to the regulations, not the Uniform Act itself.
• The Final Rule has been a long time coming, with significant changes after a decade.
• New monetary limits for relocation benefits have been established, including rental assistance and reestablishment payments.
• The importance of networking and learning at conferences cannot be overstated.
• Reading the regulations and the appendix is crucial for understanding the changes.
• There are new provisions for claiming expenses prior to project approval.
• The FHWA is expected to release FAQs addressing common concerns by December.
• The relocation community is open to questions and discussions for those seeking guidance.
• Real-world application and mentorship are key to mastering relocation processes.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.  Thank you, Blackbird, for making this episode possible!

How do you get to know the newest leader of the premier right of way trade association?  An interview with Infrastructure Junkies, of course!

In this episode, Dave and Kristen interview Denise Skinner, the incoming International Right of Way Association (IRWA) president. They discuss Denise's motivation for assuming such a significant leadership role within the IRWA and her experience on the International Executive Committee (IEC). Denise shares her perspective on the challenges and rewards of serving on the IEC, including the time commitment and the need to balance work and personal life. She also discusses the changes and improvements she hopes to bring to the association during her term as president. Overall, the conversation highlights the dedication and passion of IRWA members and the importance of strong leadership in the organization. In this conversation, Denise Skinner discusses the upcoming conference in Long Beach and the absence of drama. She also talks about her work on the Strategic Planning Task Force and the accomplishments of the association. The conversation then gets fun when Dave and Kristen attempt to expose any of Denise's "bad tastes" with a spirited round of 20 Questions, covering topics such as hot dog toppings, hidden piercings, favorite pickup lines, and more.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC as well as Pendulum Land Services, LLC.

In this episode of Infrastructure Junkies, your hosts are joined by guests Matt Harris and Ray Mehler to discuss various topics related to right-of-way professionals and pop culture. The first theme discussed is relocation, with the hosts and guests sharing their experiences and insights on becoming relocation experts. The second theme revolves around the final rule, which provides benefits for displaced individuals in federal and federally funded projects. The hosts and guests discuss the changes in the final rule and the potential impact on state relocation acts. The episode also includes pop culture topics involving the movies Back to the Future and Star Trek - The Next Generation, exploring the concept of property rights in the time-space continuum. Pop culture topics also include childhood food memories and the challenges and opportunities of generational differences in the workforce. The hosts discuss their favorite childhood foods, such as SpaghettiOs and Chef Boyardee beef ravioli, and share their experiences with different food products. They also explore the topic of generational wars, particularly the tensions between Gen Z, millennials, Gen X, and boomers. They also discuss the role of attorneys in the right-of-way process and the importance of collaboration and ethical representation. The episode concludes with the topic of umpiring and refereeing in sports, with a focus on the challenges and importance of making fair calls. The hosts share their experiences and perspectives on the role of officials in maintaining the integrity of the game.

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, your go to relocation experts in the United States.

The best way to understand why we have our standard eminent domain laws and procedures may be to learn through a good story.

Houston attorney Bobby Debelak of the law firm McDowell Hetherington joins Infrastructure Junkies to tell the story of Robert Moses, who amassed incredible power despite never being elected to a public office. Morris utilized eminent domain to accomplish some of the most amazing infrastructure projects in New York.  During his amazing reign, virtually all of the City, State and Federal infrastructure spending in New York flowed through Moses.  Hear more about his amazing rise to power, projects and controversial legacy.

This episode is graciously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, experts in the Uniform Relocation Act available for projects throughout the United States.

A right of way professional cannot overlook the importance of a good title search.  Keri Dupey from HDR, Inc. joins Infrastructure Junkies to explain and review the significance of title searches, title reports and title examinations of property subject to condemnation or eminent domain.

This episode was generously sponsored by Pendulum Land Services, LLC, a DBE and SWaM certified right of way company headquartered in the mid-Atlantic area.

The popular Eminent Domain Podcast signed off after a successful six year run.  The Eminent Domain Podcast's host, Texas attorney Clint Schumacher, joins the Infrastructure Junkies to reflect upon his show, his experiences, and all that he learned from being the pioneer podcast for the eminent domain industry.  Listen in while Clint is on the business end of a rough cross examination!

This episode of Infrastructure Junkies was graciously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, providing expert relocation services under the Uniform Relocation Act across the United States.

Christina Thoreson, Anthony Alderman and Ross Greene return to Infrastructure Junkies for more!  Will eminent domain and right of way appraisers be replaced by artificial intelligence ( "AI" )?  Can AI supplement or improve appraisal methodology?  Wouldn't the use of AI remove inherent human bias in testimony?  The group also discusses the sales comparison approach in appraisal and how it too can be manipulated, manipulation of highest and best use, appraisal of convenience stores and gas stations, and the role of a broker in eminent domain cases.

And listen on when Christina, Anthony and Ross receive their "bar names" to use at social functions!

This episode was generously made possible by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC which provides expert relocation services across the country.

Infrastructure Junkies invited two of their favorite real estate appraisers, Christina Thoreson and Anthony Alderman, to discuss a variety of hot appraisal topics encountered in right of way acquisitions and eminent domain cases.  Attorney Ross Greene (Mr. "chicken sacrificing voodoo" himself) infuses the conversation with more than his fair share of cynical color commentary.  Easements - types and effects on value.  Is there really such thing as permanent damage by a temporary easement? Why is the cost approach so distrusted by some attorneys?  And what about the "cap rate"?

And listen in on the round table discussion about Billy Squier's hot new single!

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.

Shant Boyajian of Nossaman, LLP joins the Infrastructure Junkies to update listeners on the progress of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.  Has this funding caused the dramatic boom in the right of way industry as predicted?  What projects are being funded and how?  Have there been any surprises?  Is this just the beginning or is the money running out? And what's next for the right of way industry?  Listen in for answers to these questions and more about the largest influx of infrastructure funding we've ever seen!

Eminent domain can seem oppressive and unfair.  The American system of compulsory acquisition features constitutional restrictions and obligations, as well as numerous duties imposed on condemning authorities and rights conferred upon impacted landowners.  Our right of way acquisition process has come a long way, yet imperfections persist.  Do we have the best system in the world? Is it fair enough? Are there loopholes that still need to be closed, and is there more that we should be doing to protect our citizens? Texas eminent domain attorney Sejin Brooks joins Infrastructure Junkies to offer his insights into what's broken within the systems of right of way acquisition, eminent domain and the Uniform Relocation Act.

Renowned Author Howard Mansfield returns to Infrastructure Junkies to discuss two more chapters of his book, The Habit of Turning the World Upside Down.  In this Season 4 finale, Howard tackles "The Last Medieval Claim" by recounting some of the earliest battles for American soil which occurred in the courts across the ocean, and involved people who never set foot in North America.

Then the conversation turns to "The Pipeline in the Neighborhood" where the human effects of a massive infrastructure project are once again examined.  

This episode of Infrastructure Junkies is generously made possible by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, experts in the Uniform Relocation Act benefitting projects all over the United States.

Dominion Energy Senior Counsel Karla Carter joins Infrastructure Junkies to discuss the complicated history of heirs property issues.  What exactly is "heirs property"? What are the effects--both intended and unintended--on certain segments of the American population?  What are our obligations to heirs property in the right of way context?  

When condemning agencies encounter parcels of property which were inherited by its currents owners--often passing intestate and without the benefit of a will--the easiest option is sometimes to simply proceed to condemnation.  Karla Carter explains why this has become an issue of social and environmental justice and how the abuse of partition suits has been utilized to deprive certain segments of the population of their land.  In fact, heirs property is the leading involuntary loss of African American property in the United States.

Listen in and you will understand why heirs property is so much more than a land title issue.

For more information on the subject, go to https://farmlandaccess.org/heirs-property/ 

This episode was generously sponsored by Pendulum Land Services, LLC.

Southeastern Virginia is comprised of seven cities, each of which is waterfront, and many of which are separated by large bodies of water.  The Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel was constructed in the mid 1950's to connect Norfolk and Virginia Beach with Newport News and Hampton without obstructing marine traffic.  The Virginia Department of Transportation launched one of the largest infrastructure projects in North America to expand the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel.  Chief Engineer Ryan Banas joins Infrastructure Junkies to explain this incredible feat of infrastructure expansion, and in the process, tells our audience exactly how this bridge goes under water.

A controversial and sometimes shady right of way project may be single-handedly responsible for the City of Los Angeles as we know it, and all that it represents.  The Los Angeles Aqueduct, the brain child of William Mulholland and Fred Eaton, miraculously transformed a sleepy oil town into a world famous metropolis.  Armchair Engineer Adam Ratliff (TikTok: @armchairengineer) joins Infrastructure Junkies to explain the genesis of this project, all that it entails and how it was accomplished, the disastrous effects on the Owens River Valley, and the tragedy of a dam failure which claimed the lives of over 400 people.  One thing is certain:  if there is no aqueduct, there is no modern day Los Angeles.

This episode of Infrastructure Junkies was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, specialists in the Uniform Relocation Act.  Check out their website at blackbirdrow.com.

Waterfront property lawyer Bryan Peeples joins the Infrastructure Junkies to discuss exclusive rights enjoyed by waterfront property owners -- better known as "riparian property rights".  Bryan explains that riparian rights are valuable real property rights which, in most cases, cannot be taken without just compensation.  Bryan defines each of the five riparian rights and explains how to exercise them. Bryan also explains some key differences between landlocked property and waterfront property of which all potential  purchasers of waterfront lots (including condemning agencies) should be aware.

Incoming International Right of Way Association President Fred Easton joins the Infrastructure Junkies to discuss his vision for the upcoming term.  Fred brings his philosophies and grand plans to the discussion table, as well as his passion for education within the organization.  Listen in to get to know Fred Easton better, and don't miss the special celebrity guests!

In anticipation of our mid-season finale with incoming International Right of Way Association President Fred Easton, we are re-releasing an entertaining and controversial interview with Jake Farrell, who took the reigns of the IRWA at the San Antonio conference in 2021.

Renowned author Howard Mansfield returns to Infrastructure Junkies to discuss two more chapters of his fabulous book, The Habit of Turning the World Upside Down. Listeners met Howard in the kickoff episode of Season 4 when he brought us tales of attempts to drain the Great Dismal Swamp and the Ballad of Romaine Tenney.  This time Howard discusses "The Land of Many Uses"--our national forests.  From the mass destruction of old growth American timber throughout the 19th and 20th centuries to the creation of national forests...these national treasures may not be as safe as we would like them to be.  He then explains to us in his own words what happens when "My Roots are Deeper than your Pockets"--when one's land is more important than any amount of money, even if the landowner lacks sufficient financial resources.  We as right of way professionals deal with the idea of "just compensation" to the point that we may actually become desensitized to the sentimental and emotional attachment to real property that some people feel.

Thank you to Blackbird Right of Way, LLC for its generosity in making this episode possible.  Blackbird is a DBE certified right of way acquisition company that specializes in complex relocations throughout the United States.  From one parcel to 100, make Blackbird part of your team!

In this 5th installment of the Infrastructure Junkies Roundtable series, your hosts invite some young(er) right of way professionals to share what's on their mind in this popular format. You know the routine...everyone brings one topic in right of way, and one in pop culture and the group discusses.  Listen in to some outstanding insight about the winding road to the right of way industry, YouTube stardom via the Terrell Show and a young jazz starlet Samara Joy, the joys of the Uniform Relocation Act, what is your high school anthem?, effective outreach to recruit new Infrastructure Junkies, how much Taylor Swift is too much?, gender equality and discrimination in the right of way industry, and finally the magic of The Red Green Show!

This episode was generously sponsored by Pendulum Land Services, LLC. Thank you, Pendulum!

Infrastructure Junkies host TikTok sensation and co-influencer, the Armchair Engineer to lead them through an examination of what is perhaps America's greatest infrastructure marvel of all time, the Hoover Dam.  Listen in to learn about the taming of the wild and wonderous Colorado River and political jockeying for water allocation among the seven states which border that tributary. How was that dam conceived? How was such an incredible infrastructure achievement constructed? The perils of construction could never be replicated today.  The Hoover Dam provides hydroelectric power to communities, irrigates countless farms, provides drinking water to millions, and represents a veritable triumph of 20th century engineering.  Adam Ratliff explains how reservoirs function as water "savings accounts" and the current status--and future prospects of Lake Mead.  This is one fantastic episode!

This episode was made possible by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, a DBE certified right of way company specializing in complex relocation assistance.  Thank you, Blackbird!

It's difficult to imagine that just a century ago, airplane contrails were never seen in the sky.  There was no airline industry to speak of.  In 1900, airplanes did not even exist.  Now we live in a world that relies on safe and reliable air travel.

What was the genesis of our massive airline infrastructure?  Professor Greg Jackson from the "History That Doesn't Suck" podcast joins Infrastructure Junkies to tell the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright - brothers from Dayton Ohio who had the vision of a flying machine before any such machine existed.  How did the Wright Brothers transform a vague vision into the idea to fly off of the side of a huge hill in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina?  How did that experiment go?  And how did they get from a rudimentary hang glider to reliable air transportation and war machines?  Join Professor Jackson and Infrastructure Junkies to find out!

Environmental attorney Jim Lang joins the Infrastructure Junkies to educate us on wetlands and their effects on a right of way project, infrastructure development or property acquired by eminent domain.  How do you define wetlands, and what the heck are they?   How are wetlands identified?  Why are wetlands important?  How are wetlands regulated? And what penalties will I face if I ignore or disturb wetlands?  If an agency or project manager identifies wetlands within a project's footprint, what should they do?  Finally, can a wetlands mitigation bank be utilized to solve the problem?

Jim Lang's practice is headquartered in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area, where he founded his firm's waterfront law practice group.  For more information about topics involving wetlands, waterfront law and riparian property rights, check out his website at Waterfront Property Law, serving those who work, live and play on the water.

This episode was generously sponsored by Pendulum Land Services, LLC.  A SWaM certified, DBE right of way acquisition company also headquartered in Hampton Roads, Virginia.  Check out their website at Pendulum Land Services.

One year after last season's blockbuster episode about the challenges of the oil & gas and pipeline industries, renowned energy lawyer Tom Forestier returns to Infrastructure Junkies to update us on the current prospects of that industry.  Just as it wasn't over "when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor", rumors of the demise of the oil and gas industry were greatly exaggerated.  Exports of hydrocarbons are up and oil companies are recording record profits.  So why do we still pay so much at the pump?  Tom explains it all.

Tom also gives us an overview of "Environmental Justice" and how it affects right of way projects.  Learn what environmental justice means, how it is applied, what are the goals and objectives of environmental justice and how it must be accounted for on infrastructure projects.

New Jersey's Owner's Counsel of America representative, Tony DellaPelle, re-joins Infrastructure Junkies! to discuss his front line experience on a  serious issue that is not going away for coastal communities and residents--storm damage.  Tony describes the unexpected devastation of Hurricane Sandy to the Jersey Shore back in 2012, and the reactions of residents and politicians alike.  After the storm, Governor Chris Christie led the effort to mitigate the effects of future storms by constructing dunes and buffers.  But New Jersey had no plans to pay for easements required for those storm mitigation buffers and gave no consideration to the possible damage to value of coastal properties.  Does the public interest in protecting our coastlines from rising seas outweigh private interest in real property?  Do landowners have a moral, ethical or social obligation to surrender rights without compensation--thereby bearing the substantial costs of mitigation efforts?

This is a fascinating examination of one state's reaction to a devastating hurricane.  What steps can be taken to proactively deal with future storms?  That may be the substance of discussion on a future episode!

This episode is made possible by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, which specializes in complex relocations under the Uniform Relocation Act.  From one parcel to 100, anywhere in the lower 48 states, Blackbird is ready to become a part of the team.

The Infrastructure Junkies team up with Clint Schumacher of the Eminent Domain Podcast to bring you a very special joint episode with a superstar guest.  Two term Mayor of Austin, Texas, Steve Adler, joins your three hosts to discuss his time as Mayor of one of America's most vibrant and progressive cities.  What was it like to lead the charge on huge infrastructure packages to benefit citizens long before the federal government passed its own legislation? What makes Austin so unique?  And how did Mayor Adler's career as a landowner eminent domain attorney affect his perspective as the leader of the Texas capitol?

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC, your "go to" consultant for displacements under the Uniform Relocation Act.

Renowned author Howard Mansfield joins Infrastructure Junkies! to explain his fascinating book on property rights, The Habit of Turning the World Upside Down.  Mansfield details the odd and sometimes disturbing relationship Americans have with land and real property, and brings forth two compelling stories from his book.  He details the tragic demise of a Vermont farmer named Romaine Tenney who stood in the way of highway construction in 1964.  The Uniform Relocation Act was not yet in existence, and Mr. Tenney could have really used the assistance of a relocation agent… or could he?  Kristen Short Bennett’s commentary on the story is surprising and compelling.  

Howard Mansfield also details George Washington’s plans to drain the huge and magnificent Great Dismal Swamp located in southeast Virginia and Northeast North Carolina in the 1700’s.  The land hungry Washington planned to convert the swamp to farmland, but those plans never came to fruition.  Before wetlands regulations, before nature conservancy, before any sort of national environmental conscience, George Washington’s irresponsible and hare-brained scheme resulted in 250 years of environmental destruction and annihilation of a multitude of ecosystems.

Enjoy Mr. Mansfield’s fascinating presentation and perspective on American property, and never forget the obligations that right of way professionals have to our land and our country.

This episode is generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way, LLC.

Visit our podcast’s website at Infrastructure Junkies.

This is a leaked episode of our other podcast, Infrastructure Junkies Unfiltered! which can be found at the Infrastructure Junkies Website under "Exclusive Content".  Fred Easton joined IJ Unfiltered to discuss his experiences as an expert witness in eminent domain cases.  Believe it or not, Fred was once fired as an expert witness on a legal case for being "too honest".  As we all know, lawyers want their experts to say what they want them to say, and when that expert forms his own opinion--and sticks to his guns, he can find himself off of the case.  Fred also gives us a glimpse into the survey world and offers his hot take on the new Casey Anthony miniseries.  Tune in!!

The most interesting man in right of way, Donnie Sherwood, presents some of his more colorful personal experiences in appraisal assignments.  Learn how he handled timber cruises to value trees on a tract of property which was being acquired by a state agency, and the snakes, hogs, spiders, rats and other terrifying creatures that he encountered along the way.  Have you ever wanted to meet an Eastern Timberback rattlesnake inches from your head...or be chased by a cottonmouth water moccasin for 75 yards through a swamp? Donnie did just that during an assignment in Big Thicket, Texas. If he stuck it out in the right of way field for 48 years, so can you! And if you have ever considered teaching an International Right of Way Association course in Saudi Arabia or another exotic land, tune in.

In this fascinating discussion about various issues encountered in right of way or eminent domain appraisal assignments with our good friends Brian O'Neill and David Burgoyne, Infrastructure Junkies! takes a deep dive on what's hot in the industry.  Our guests educate us on the purpose and mechanics of review appraisals, which is an opinion on the quality of another appraiser's work. They also touch on appraisal requirements established by the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisitions Act and walk us through the difference between major and minor deficiencies in an appraisal.  Hear how and why the right of way appraisal business is very special, and how it is different from "run of the mill appraisals".  Hear why temperament is a critical key to being an effective eminent domain appraiser, what obstacles and barriers there are in eminent domain appraising and why Dave gets so wound up by hubris and arrogance of many appraisers.  Along the way, discover the beauty of Brian's home state, Idaho, and maybe Dave doesn't know as much about oysters as he wants everyone to believe.  And Kristen puts Mr. Burgoyne through the paces of "Over, Under, Push".

This episode is generously sponsored by National Right of Way Review Appraisal, where our friends offer their exemplary appraisal services.

Welcome to the fourth installment of Infrastructure Junkies Roundtable with Wade Brown of American Acquisition Group and Ross Greene with Pender & Coward's Eminent Domain Practice Group.  You know the routine...everyone brings one right of way issue and one pop culture topic that is on their mind, and magic ensues!  This time, we delve into the breadth of "infrastructure" as we know it, and who is the "good guy" and who is the not so good guy.  Ross wants to talk about replacing interstates with green space and how we tend to find another path to get to where we need to be.   Wade is frustrated with educating inexperienced strategic partners in the right of way process.  Dave has a newfound respect for negotiators and negotiation agents who wear many hats in the process.  As for pop culture, let's just say that Wade flips out about slow drivers in the left lane, Kristen hates "vocal fry", Ross loves fantasy movies, and Dave has his opinions on the best lead vocalists in rock and roll.  Enjoy!

In this special bonus episode, Dave and Kristen leak an episode of their brand new subscription only podcast "Infrastructure Junkies Unfiltered!"  Unfiltered is a weekly show that consists largely of discussion and analysis of hot topics in right of way and eminent domain, pop culture, and everyday life and well being.

In this leaked episode, Dave and Kristen discuss the effects of recent hurricanes on infrastructure, the movie Bridesmaids, and why Kristen is sore (this ought to be good). PLUS, is IIJA already in trouble? And what the heck is wrong with Dave these days????

To find out more about "Infrastructure Junkies Unfiltered!" and to follow, check out the website at Infrastructure Junkies.com  or their subscription page to the new show.

Despite the best of intentions (and in spite of careful planning), agencies must sometime cancel a right of way project.  When a project is cancelled, what lies in the aftermath?  Does it matter how far along the project had progressed?  What if eminent domain had already been used?  Does acquisition by quick take vs. slow take make a difference?  And what should the repercussions be on the cancelling agency?

New Jersey attorney Anthony DellaPelle from the law firm of McKirdy, Riskin, Olson & DellaPelle, P.C. joins Infrastructure Junkies! to share his wisdom on this subject.  With his long and varied career in eminent domain, Tony is able to offer insight and perspective on behalf of both landowners and agencies.  And buckle up for his answers in "Over, Under, Push" and "Riddle Me This!"  This is a a great episode!

We know that IIJA will pump TRILLIONS of dollars into the American infrastructure industry, but aside from the dollars being invested, what effects can we expect?  Infrastructure Junkies! invited Philip Sanchez, a New York attorney with the law firm of Herrick, Feinstein, LLP, to the show to give us the lowdown on what to expect...and you better buckle up!  Phil explains why this new legislation will have an even more dramatic effect on American society than what we saw when the interstate system was constructed.   Are we ready in the right of way industry to meet the demands of this bill?  Let's find out!

Do you want to talk relocation assistance under the Uniform Relocation Act?  You have come to the right place!  Join Infrastructure Junkies! as Kristen Bennett takes us on a deep dive into the differences between moving, reestablishment, and ineligible relocation expenses.  This episode was inspired by a recent encounter with a move planner, and Kristen will discuss grease traps, vent hoods, and sprinkler systems…along with other sometimes questionable relocation items.  Also, find out when and how displacees can be reimbursed for expenses pertaining to code compliance.  Kristen will even give listeners direct references to the rules in the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR Part 24) and the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act (Uniform Act)!  Let’s get in the weeds together!

Infrastructure Junkies! returns for the second half of Season 3, highlighting the International Right of Way Association International Conference in Cleveland, a trip to Podcast Movement in Dallas, and plans for the future and upcoming events for our listeners! Find out what happened over the summer and what is in store going forward.

The Infrastructure Junkies! invited President Judy Jones to center stage to explain how and why she assumed the helm a year earlier than originally planned. Is she ready? Did she need another year to prepare? Learn more about her unlikely path to this position, her philosophies, leadership style and her goals for the International Right of Way Association.

This episode of Infrastructure Junkies! was graciously underwritten and sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way LLC, DBE certified relocation specialists who will handle all of your relocation needs, no matter how complex. From one parcel to 100.

Infrastructure Junkies! welcome back Professor Greg Jackson from the History that Doesn't Suck Podcast to tell you a story about one of the greatest infrastructure marvels in American History:  the transcontinental railroad.  Learn about the reasons why our young country so desperately needed this new infrastructure development, how it was set up as a race between the Union Pacific and the Central Pacific, the high stakes of failure, the challenges of drilling through mountains, native American hostilities, weather, and also learn about the remarkable people that got it done.  What a story!

This episode was generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way LLC, your experts in the Uniform Relocation Act.  From one parcel to one hundred, anywhere in the United States, Blackbird gets it done! 

Appraiser Bob Grace joins Infrastructure Junkies! to discuss the wild and wonderful world of fixtures in the right of way field.  The appraiser's first encounter with items in the acquisition inspection will set the stage for how certain "things" are handled throughout the eminent domain process.  Are they realty or are they personal property? And what is a "trade fixture"? Get that determination wrong, and bad things can happen. Tune in!

For the first time ever, The Eminent Domain Podcast and Infrastructure Junkies! team up for a JOINT EPISODE which examines the nuts and bolts of IIJA.  We focus on how and when it will affect our industry, where the funding is going--and where it's not.  Attorney Jeremy Young has studied the landmark legislation and provides your hosts a wonderful and fascinating overview of what is to come.

Indian property rights scholar Bethany Berger, a professor at the University of Connecticut School of Law, joins Infrastructure Junkies! to explain the intersection between Indian rights and right of way projects and infrastructure development in the United States.  She discusses the derivation of Indian property interests, how Indian reservations were established, the laws that govern Indian property rights, the source of those laws, and the effects of burial grounds and Indian artifacts on a project.

For more information on this topic, the regulation on rights of way over trust and restricted lands on reservations can be found at 25 CFR 169 (there are some older statutes that apply to reservations generally), and the best resource to find out more about Indian property rights is Cohen’s Handbook on Federal Indian Law, which is available on Lexis (but not Westlaw).  Ch.15, section 15.09[4] is all about rights of way, and Ch.20 section 20.02[3] is all about the National Historic Preservation Act. 

Special thanks to our sponsor, Blackbird Right of Way, a full service, DBE certified right of way company, for making this episode possible.

Tom Forestier, a partner with Winstead, PC, has represented some of the largest companies in the oil and gas industry for his entire career.  Tom joins Infrastructure Junkies! to discuss how the oil and gas industry has lost public support, the disfavor of fossil fuels, and the difficulty of building pipelines in this new era.  And did someone mention bourbon?  Yes, please!

Your hosts explore application of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, to businesses impacted by a right of way or eminent domain project.  Martyn Daniel, an eminent domain and business relocation consultant and Brandee Caswell, an attorney who assists large companies with complex relocations, offer their perspectives on application of the URA to this complex and sometimes imperfect process.  Find out the role of the Karate Kid in relocations, and whose alter ego is Daniel Larusso, Johhny Lawrence, Mr. Miyagi and Ali with an "i"!

This episode is generously sponsored by Blackbird Right of Way LLC.

Two of the best and most successful property rights (landowner) eminent domain attorneys in the United States, Andrew Prince Brigham (Jacksonville) and Christian Torgrimson (Atlanta), join Infrastructure Junkies! to share their perspectives from the other side.  Along the way, they discuss what attracted them to defending landowners, their perspective on the ongoing debate of whether eminent domain is good or evil, as well as jury trial strategies.  Learn what they view as unfair practices by condemning authorities and which agencies are more difficult than others.  They identify bad condemning authority practices and behaviors and best of all, appraisers and appraisal tactics which they are able to exploit at trial.  As would be expected, each guest handily survives "Cross Examination with Dave"!

This episode was recorded on location at the Eminent Domain and Land Value Litigation Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona.  Infrastructure Junkies! would like to thank Amy Weinberg at ALI-CLE for providing our team the space to record at the conference.

Infrastructure Junkies! would also like to thank Pender & Coward's Eminent Domain / Right of Way Practice Group for its generosity in sponsoring this episode.

Infrastructure Junkies! kicks off Season 3 with a blockbuster roundtable with special guests Lisa Harrison and Marcus Boyd. Tune in to consider hardline negotiations in right of way, silver linings in relocation benefits, the need for diversity in the right of way industry and whether the infrastructure industry is really ready to "go green". Along the way your hosts and guests consider the benefits of being a vegetarian, reality TV guilty pleasures, the need to read, and Texas Tech basketball, baby!  This episode was generously sponsored and made possible by Pinnacle Consulting Management Group.  Thank you, Pinnacle!