Grow Omaha Show discussion

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Sun Apr 16, 2023 6:38 pm

Grow Omaha April 15th, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
5:25 - News of the Week
13:57 - Uncut 1
17:12 - Radio Show 2
17:41 - Deb Ward Executive Director of Omaha Convention and Visitors Bureau
27:30 - Uncut 2
34:44 - Radio Show 3
35:13 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
42:52 - Uncut 3
45:16 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sun Apr 23, 2023 9:09 pm

Grow Omaha April 22, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
2:15 - News of the Week pt 1
15:33 - Uncut 1
19:13 - Radio Show 2
20:24 - News of the Week pt 2
28:58 - Uncut 2
36:22 - Radio Show 3
37:34 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:15 - Uncut 3
46:35 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Fri Apr 28, 2023 7:23 am

Empty commercial real estate could impact Douglas County budget

Vacant lots and high-interest rates hurt more than just the property owners. They could hurt everyone that benefits from county programs. “We have one source of revenue, and it’s property taxes,” said Douglas County Commissioner PJ Morgan. The county’s annual budget is around $550 million, according to Morgan. He said that pays for essential crime and safety services like the sheriff’s office and correctional facility. Morgan pointed to 90th and Dodge as an area of concern.

“You’ll see that almost every building has ‘for lease’ signs on it,” he said. “There are floors in Regency that have been vacant for two to three years.” Tanner Sherman, COO of DreamVesting Capital, explained the impact. “It’s the neglected buildings that are bringing the property value down, and we’re going to see the decreased tax revenue for those,” he said. A building near 108th and Farnam sold for $12.8 million in 2006. Last year, it sold for less than $5 million, according to the county assessor. Because lower sales prices could mean lower property tax assessments and less money coming into the county, Morgan is concerned about budgeting for increasing salaries and operating costs the county is responsible for.

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sun May 07, 2023 6:15 pm

Grow Omaha May 6, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
2:48 - News of the Week
16:37 - Uncut 1
20:17 - David Drozd, Director of Data Analysis and Research at Community Health Development Partners
30:10 - Uncut 2
37:34 - Radio Show 3
38:05 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:14 - Uncut 3
46:40 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Thu May 18, 2023 9:30 am

Grow Omaha May 13, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
4:37 - News of the Week
17:29 - Uncut 1
20:43 - Radio Show 2
21:25 - Jason Thiellen CEO of E&O Consulting Group
29:36 - Uncut 2
36:41 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
38:26 - Jason Thiellen CEO of E&O Consulting Group pt 2
45:00 - Uncut 3
47:22 - Lightning Round

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Sun May 21, 2023 11:45 pm

Grow Omaha May 20, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show
3:21 - News of the Week
14:23 - Uncut 1
18:03 - Radio Show 2
18:18 - Arun Agarwal CEO of White Lotus Group
28:29 - Uncut 2
35:46 - Radio Show 2
36:28 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
42:51 - Uncut 3
45:11 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Mon May 29, 2023 8:56 pm

Grow Omaha May 27, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show
4:43 - News of the Week
15:43 - Uncut 1
19:28 - Radio Show 2
28:40 - Uncut 2
36:16 - Radio Show 3
36:35 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
43:22 - Uncut 3
45:46 - Radio Show 4
46:12 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Mon Jun 05, 2023 3:07 pm

Grow Omaha June 3, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
1:49 - News of the Week
14:07 - Radio Show 2
15:37 - Stacy Winters of Omaha Food Lovers pt1
24:01 - Radio Show 3
24:58 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
27:08 - Stacy Winters pt 2
32:43 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Mon Jun 12, 2023 7:01 am

Grow Omaha, June 10, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
1:53 - News of the Week
10:55 - Uncut 1
14:38 - Radio Show 2
15:29 - Mayor of Gretna, Mike Evans
24:32 - Uncut 2
31:55 - Radio Show 3
32:17 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
34:29 - Mayor of Gretna, Mike Evans
40:52 - Uncut 3
43:17 - Radio Show 4
44:20 - Lightning Round

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Mon Jun 19, 2023 9:58 pm

Grow Omaha Uncut -June 17, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
3:26 - News of the Week
16:32 - Uncut 1
20:18 - Radio Show 2
28:40 - Uncut 2
36:16 - Radio Show
38:56 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:45 - Uncut 3
47:06 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sun Jun 25, 2023 9:26 pm

Grow Omaha June 24, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
1:09 - News of the Week
10:28 - Uncut 1
13:33 - Radio Show 2
14:37 - Dr. Michelle Trawick, PhD - Dean of College of Business Administration at University of Nebraska at Omaha
25:00 - Uncut 2
32:40 - Radio Show 3
33:38 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
36:20 - Dr. Michelle Trawick, PhD - Dean of College of Business Administration at University of Nebraska at Omaha pt 1
42:49 - Uncut 3
45:12 - Lightning Round

ChadJK · Post by **ChadJK** » Thu Jun 29, 2023 4:41 pm

Goodcents will grow its presence in Omaha thanks to a new 10-unit deal signed by current Goodcents franchisees, according to Franchise Update Media. Will and Gina Gregalunas, who now operate a Goodcents near Village Pointe, signed an agreement to build nine new restaurants over the next four to five years in the west metro area. The first one is scheduled to open by March.

I remember reading 10 or so years ago that, at the time, Goodcents had the highest franchise failure rate (it had like over a 60% SBA loan failure rate). It's good to see that they've (presumably) improved over the years. I kept waiting to hear the chain was closing up nationwide for good.

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Mon Jul 03, 2023 8:45 am

Grow Omaha July 1, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
2:38 - News of the Week
6:53 - Uncut 1
10:37 - Radio Show 2
11:29 - B&G's comeback with owner Nick Bartholomew
16:35 - Frank's Pizza at Nebraska Crossing with Owner Matt Halligan
23:25 - Uncut 2
30:44 - Radio Show 3
32:18 - Eric Bergt, Dragon's Wok owner talks new restaurants at Nebraska Crossing
40:54 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
41:58 - Uncut 3
44:26 - Radio Show 4 / Lightning Round

Linkin5 · Post by **Linkin5** » Sun Jul 09, 2023 10:52 am

I hadn’t seen this posted elsewhere, they stated that Infusion is selling their Benson building.

Post by **Brad** » Sun Jul 09, 2023 10:24 pm

Linkin5 wrote: Sun Jul 09, 2023 10:52 am I hadn’t seen this posted elsewhere, they stated that Infusion is selling their Benson building.

Yeah, we discussed it over here:
https://www.eomahaforums.com/viewtopic. ... on#p372873

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Sun Jul 09, 2023 10:26 pm

Grow Omaha July 8, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
3:18 - News of the Week
16:42 - Uncut 1
20:23 - Radio Show 2
28:58 - Uncut 2
35:59 - Radio Show 3
37:35 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
42:43 - Uncut 3
45:02 - Lightning Round

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Mon Jul 10, 2023 8:25 am

At 20:23 of this past Saturday’s show, they talk about the excellent piece written by business professional Kurt Strawhecker found in the Grow Omaha newsletter from 6/29/23 titled “Why wouldn’t you move to Omaha?”. It’s a fantastic read. Jeff Beals and the crew break it down on air..

Great content as always

..,

Ciao..LiO…Peace

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Mon Jul 10, 2023 9:48 am

Omaha Cowboy wrote: Mon Jul 10, 2023 8:25 am At 20:23 of this past Saturday’s show, they talk about the excellent piece written by business professional Kurt Strawhecker found in the Grow Omaha newsletter from 6/29/23 titled “Why wouldn’t you move to Omaha?”. It’s a fantastic read. Jeff Beals and the crew break it down on air..

Great content as always ..,

Ciao..LiO…Peace

Here is the piece written by Kurt Strawhecker-

“GUEST COLUMN: Why Wouldn’t You Move to Omaha?

By Kurt Strawhecker

I have been lucky throughout my career to be part of several high-growth companies in Omaha. I often hear from local business owners about the difficulty of attracting high-quality talent to our city. While we have found most of our staff from the Omaha area – due to our excellent and varied school systems – we sometimes need to expand our search.

Over time, we have successfully attracted job candidates to relocate to Omaha. When I tell people about our recent successes in attracting new employees and moving to Omaha from around the US, they often ask: “Why would they move to Omaha?” I quickly answer by questioning their premise. Why wouldn’t they move to Omaha?

I am the founding Partner of TSG, the largest consulting and analytics firm focused on the electronic payments industry. Our clients include companies such as Visa, Bank of America, and JP Morgan Chase. With my son and Partner, Mike Strawhecker, we have grown substantially since we started the firm in Omaha 16 years ago.

Unlike other companies, an in-office work environment is necessary for our highly collaborative business model, so we invite new employees to move to our headquarters in Omaha. Over the past two years, we have attracted new senior talent from Florida, Michigan, Alabama, and New York City, as well as recent graduates from our local universities.

I am also a part owner of Dante, a nationally recognized modern Italian restaurant. My son Nick Strawhecker, who is owner/chef, recently launched a nationwide search for a new head chef. The finalists for the position included award-winning chefs in Boston and Pittsburgh, both eager to be part of Omaha's quickly evolving and growing restaurant scene.

So, when I hear other Omaha business owners bemoan the difficulty in attracting new workers to Omaha, I am puzzled. Sometimes, these individuals are lifetime Omaha residents and may have a bit of an inferiority complex about their hometown. Having lived in Southern California and the UK throughout my career, and traveling to almost all 50 states, I know there are issues, regardless of locale, involving weather, congestion, price of living, or crime.

One of the best ways to attract talent to Omaha is to believe in this city we are all part of. We talk about the virtues and benefits of Omaha and what it has to offer. We have also partnered with successful real estate agents who take the job candidates and spouses on a tour of the city during the interview process and tour the city and potential neighborhoods. It has consistently worked.

Omaha offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm, a thriving job market, an affordable cost of living, excellent education options, and an enviable quality of life. To people new to the city, Omaha is a vibrant city and steadily becoming a preferred destination for individuals and families seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Let's look at Omaha's key attributes:

Affordable Cost of Living

One of the most significant advantages of living in Omaha is its remarkably affordable cost of living. According to recent data, the overall cost of living in Omaha is approximately 8% lower than the national average, making it an attractive choice for individuals looking to stretch their hard-earned dollars further. Housing costs in Omaha are particularly appealing, with median home prices significantly lower than other major cities. Whether you prefer the charm of historic neighborhoods or modern developments, Omaha offers a wide range of housing options to suit different lifestyles and budgets.

Quality of Life

Omaha offers an exceptional quality of life, combining the conveniences of a metropolitan city with the warmth and friendliness of a close-knit community. The city prides itself on its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues. Residents can enjoy an array of recreational activities, including exploring the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, the brand new Luminarium Science Museum, multiple music and art venues, strolling through the beautiful parks and gardens, or cheering for the renowned College World Series. Additionally, Omaha's strong sense of community is evident in its numerous festivals, farmers' markets, and community events that foster connections and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Education Excellence

Omaha takes great pride in its education system, offering outstanding educational public and private school opportunities. The city is home to several nationally recognized schools, providing top-notch education from kindergarten through high school. Omaha's commitment to education is further exemplified by its renowned colleges and universities, including the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Creighton University. These institutions contribute to the city's intellectual vibrancy and attract a diverse and talented pool of students, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

Robust Job Market

Omaha boasts a strong and diverse job market, driving its economic growth and stability. The city's strategic location and pro-business environment have attracted many industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, FinTech, logistics, and agriculture. Omaha is the headquarters for several prominent companies, such as Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha, and Union Pacific. The city's low unemployment rate and ample job opportunities make it an appealing destination for professionals seeking career advancement and stability.

So, fellow growing Omaha business owners, use the following positive and confident elevator speech next time you are talking to someone considering a move to our great city:

“Omaha presents a compelling case for those seeking an attractive place to call home. Omaha offers a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle with its affordable cost of living, exceptional education options, robust job market, and high quality of life. The city's dedication to economic growth, education, and community engagement ensures that residents can thrive personally and professionally. Whether you are a young professional starting your career, a family searching for a supportive environment, or someone looking to retire comfortably, Omaha beckons with open arms, promising a future filled with opportunities and a strong sense of belonging.”

The word must be getting out. Anecdotally, just last week, my son Nick said that he talked to five professionals at his restaurant who were in town to interview for management positions here in Omaha.

Given the right opportunity, why wouldn’t you move to Omaha?

(Kurt Strawhecker is an Omaha-based serial entrepreneur and has played multiple roles in sales, marketing, and advertising. Kurt is the Founding Partner of The Strawhecker Group (TSG), one of the most extensive analytics and consulting firms focused on the electronic payments industry.)”…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sun Jul 16, 2023 8:07 pm

Grow Omaha July 15, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
7:03 - News of the Week
14:59 - Uncut 1
18:36 - Radio Show 2
28:33 - Uncut 2
36:12 - Radio Show 3
37:04 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:01 - Uncut 3
46:24 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sun Jul 23, 2023 7:10 am

Grow Omaha, July 22, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
3:10 - News of the Week
11:56 - Uncut 1
14:20 - Radio Show 2
25:08 - Uncut 2
27:13 - Radio Show 3
28:05 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
36:00 - Uncut 3

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sun Jul 30, 2023 5:49 pm

Grow Omaha, July 29, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
1:57 - News of the Week
11:20 - Uncut 1
13:15 - Radio Show 2
23:04 - Uncut 2
25:42 - Radio Show 3
26:54 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
35:54 - Uncut 3
37:39 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sun Aug 06, 2023 7:25 pm

Grow Omaha, August 5, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
2:18 - News of the Week
11:35 - Uncut 1
15:22 - Radio Show 2
15:45 - CRE Summit with Chris Mensinger and Jerry Slusky
26:08 - Uncut 2
33:17 - Radio Show 3
34:28 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
43:40 - Uncut 3
46:10 - Lightning Round

Post by **Brad** » Sat Aug 12, 2023 9:47 am

Eric Miller, One of the original old school 2004 eomaha members is on Grow Omaha today talking transit.

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Sat Aug 12, 2023 10:08 am

Brad wrote: Sat Aug 12, 2023 9:47 am Eric Miller, One of the original old school 2004 eomaha members is on Grow Omaha today talking transit.

I thought Eric lived in Denver… ?

Post by **Brad** » Sun Aug 13, 2023 8:39 pm

Coyote wrote: Sat Aug 12, 2023 10:08 am
Brad wrote: Sat Aug 12, 2023 9:47 am Eric Miller, One of the original old school 2004 eomaha members is on Grow Omaha today talking transit.
I thought Eric lived in Denver… ?

He did for 15 years but he is back now.

Linkin5 · Post by **Linkin5** » Sun Aug 13, 2023 9:41 pm

Brad wrote: Sun Aug 13, 2023 8:39 pm
Coyote wrote: Sat Aug 12, 2023 10:08 am
Brad wrote: Sat Aug 12, 2023 9:47 am Eric Miller, One of the original old school 2004 eomaha members is on Grow Omaha today talking transit.
I thought Eric lived in Denver… ?
He did for 15 years but he is back now.

He did a great job on the show, was hoping they would have asked him more questions. He posted as Zephyr right?

Post by **Brad** » Sun Aug 13, 2023 9:52 pm

Linkin5 wrote: Sun Aug 13, 2023 9:41 pm He posted as Zephyr right?

Correct.

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Mon Aug 14, 2023 6:35 am

Grow Omaha, August 12, 2023, Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
5:35 - News of the Week
13:41 - Radio Show 2
14:40 - Eric Miller, Senior Transportation Planner at Felsburg Holt Ullevg
22:24 - Radio Show 3
22:57 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
25:03 - Pt.2 Eric Miller, Senior Transportation Planner at Felsburg Holt Ullevg
30:53 - Lightning Round

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Mon Aug 14, 2023 6:41 am

Eric Miller, Senior Transportation Planner at Felsburg Holt Ullevg! Welcome Back Zephyr!

Zephyr · Post by **Zephyr** » Mon Aug 14, 2023 10:18 pm

Thanks, it is good to be back! Super excited at getting the world-class streetcar up and running!

Post by **Omaha Cowboy** » Mon Aug 14, 2023 10:55 pm

Zephyr wrote: Mon Aug 14, 2023 10:18 pm
Thanks, it is good to be back! Super excited at getting the world-class streetcar up and running!

Welcome back. It’s been a long time coming..

Don’t be a stranger

…

Ciao..LiO…Peace

almighty_tuna · Post by **almighty_tuna** » Tue Aug 15, 2023 7:46 am

Hey, welcome back!

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Tue Aug 15, 2023 8:40 am

Zephyr wrote: Mon Aug 14, 2023 10:18 pm Thanks, it is good to be back! Super excited at getting the world-class streetcar up and running!

Welcome back Zephyr!

Garrett · Post by **Garrett** » Tue Aug 15, 2023 9:36 am

Zephyr wrote: Mon Aug 14, 2023 10:18 pm Thanks, it is good to be back! Super excited at getting the world-class streetcar up and running!

Hope you keep coming back here so we can pick your brain some! The more planners here the better haha

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Sun Aug 20, 2023 8:22 pm

Grow Omaha August 19, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
2:13 - News of the Week
15:48 - Uncut 1
19:30 - Radio Show 2
19:48 - Quantum Fiber - John Anzaldo, Sr Midwest Regional Manager
26:21 - Uncut 2
33:48 - Radio Show 3
34:49 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:01 - Uncut 3
46:26 - Lightning Round

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Sun Aug 27, 2023 8:22 pm

Grow Omaha August 26 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show
10:13 - News of the Week
17:03 - Uncut 1
20:44 - Radio Show 2
26:33 - Uncut 2
34:13 - Radio Show 3
34:41 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:15 - Uncut 3
46:30 - Lightning Round

NEDodger · Post by **NEDodger** » Sun Aug 27, 2023 11:28 pm

Grow Omaha wrote: Sun Aug 27, 2023 8:22 pm Grow Omaha August 26 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show
10:13 - News of the Week
17:03 - Uncut 1
20:44 - Radio Show 2
26:33 - Uncut 2
34:13 - Radio Show 3
34:41 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:15 - Uncut 3
46:30 - Lightning Round

Jeff,

A-freaking-men to the State Office Building coming down. Worst square block in the city.

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Mon Sep 04, 2023 1:04 pm

Grow Omaha September 2, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
5:30 - News of the Week
9:24 - Uncut 1
13:03 - Radio Show 2
13:27 - Forever Yesterday Exchange with Patrick Kinchler & Craig Wolf
25:44 - Uncut 2
33:23 - Radio Show 3
33:47 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
35:40 - AEF Academy with Craig Wolf
40:18 - Uncut 3
42:28 - Lightning Round with Guests Craig Wolf and Patrick Kinchler

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Sun Sep 10, 2023 9:50 pm

Grow Omaha - September 9, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
1:29 - News of the Week
13:54 - Uncut 1
17:37 - Radio Show 2
17:50 - Stacy Winters of Omaha Food Lovers
25:47 - Uncut 2
33:23 - Radio Show 3
33:48 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
35:12 - Stacy Winters of Omaha Food Lovers pt 2
41:59 - Uncut 3
44:25 - Lightning Round

Grow Omaha · Post by **Grow Omaha** » Sat Sep 16, 2023 3:49 pm

September 16, 2023 Episode

0:00 - Radio Show 1
3:40 - News of the Week
14:31 - Uncut 1
18:06 - Radio Show 2
29:40 - Uncut 2
37:21 - Radio Show 3
38:13 - Commercial Real Estate Development Spotlight
44:16 - Uncut 3
46:36 - Lightning Round