Where We Buy

James interviews David Fuller-Watts of Kinexio about the challenges of managing retail properties and how technology, particularly AI, can streamline processes such as data collection and tenant communication. David shares his journey from founding a marketing agency to creating an enterprise property management solution. The conversation also touches on the future impact of AI on property management, the importance of enthusiasm in software adoption, and the role of Proptech in transforming the real estate industry. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

James dives into the economic, historical, and retail landscape of Montgomery, Alabama, with Jerime Reid and Frank Robinson. Jerime, the Chief of Staff to the Mayor, and Frank, the Director of Economic Development, discuss Montgomery's pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and its current status as a dynamic and diverse economy. The conversation covers the impact of Maxwell Air Force Base, the significance of tourism driven by historical sites, and the city's efforts to attract both local and national retail investments. They also highlight ongoing and upcoming development projects. The episode underscores Montgomery's strategic initiatives to create a business-friendly environment while preserving its rich history and culture. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is R

Jim Babinchak and Kevin Kern with architecture firm Cooper Carry talk about their role in helping Northwood Investors transform the Ballantyne Corporate Park in Charlotte, NC into a vibrant mixed-use project known as The Bowl at Ballantyne. They discuss the design vision of creating a communal and walkable environment with a blend of retail, residential, and entertainment spaces. Key features include family-friendly amenities like the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery & Biergarten, a large outdoor amphitheater, and experiential design elements seamlessly integrated into the urban landscape. The conversation highlights the challenges, sustainability efforts, and long-term vision for the development. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, unde

Phil Colicchio is an attorney and real estate consultant known for his work representing celebrity chefs and helping to pioneer the Las Vegas restaurant boom. Phil talks about the food and beverage industry in Las Vegas, the evolution of food halls, and the integration of entertainment into dining experiences. Phil also speaks about working with his cousin Tom Colicchio and his experiences negotiating licensing agreements for other celebrity chefs. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Keisha Virtue is Retail Research Manager for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Mickey Papillon leads tech strategy for Irvine Company. He discusses the influence of technology on the shopping experience, including EV charging stations, AI, and the use of mobility data for strategic decision-making. He talks about using technology to enhance customer experience from online product discovery to in-center navigation. The conversation also covers predictive analytics and robotics, exploring their practical applications and impact on retail environments. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Matt DuPlessie is founder and CEO of Level99, a real-world gaming venue designed for adults. He covers the origins of Level99, its unique concept of combining various physical and mental challenge rooms with high-quality dining, and plans for growth, including upcoming locations in Tysons, Virginia, Hartford, Connecticut, and Disney Springs in Orlando. Matt also discusses the technology and design process behind the games, the importance of integrating local art, and the investment in Level99 by Ron Shaich's Act 3 Holdings.  James Cook is the director of retail research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Brandy Mathie is Director of Site Acquisition and Portfolio Management at Electrify America, the largest open hyper-fast electric vehicle charging network in the U.S. Mathie explains the company's growth, future goals, and the logistics of deploying charging stations in retail locations. She also covers customer experience, ideal site locations, and the increasing demand for EV infrastructure.  James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Keisha Virtue is Retail Research Manager for JLL. James Cook is the director of retail research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Kien Tsoi, regional director of leasing for Dollar Tree, talks about what it takes for a retailer to surpass 9,000 stores in North America. Kien talks about his background in retail brokerage and the unique shopping experience that Dollar Tree offers. He also speaks to the competition he faces for retail spaces and the impact of economic conditions on value retail.  James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Keisha Virtue is Retail Research Manager for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Andy Weiner, President of RockStep Capital discusses his unique strategy of involving local investors and community bank lending to invest in open air and enclosed shopping centers. Andy shares insights from his background in retail and explains how RockStep mitigates risks by fostering strong local partnerships. He also delves into the company's principles, known as 'Rock Steps,' which guide their operations and culture. The conversation covers the evolution of retail real estate, the benefits of community alignment, and strategies for maintaining successful retail centers in hometown markets.  James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Jennifer Schuler, CEO talks about the storied history of  Handel's Homemade Ice Cream, from Alice Handel's dedication to quality ice cream starting in 1945 in Ohio, to today's franchise-driven expansion. Jennifer shares her own career journey from General Mills to Wetzel's Pretzels, highlighting her passion for the food industry. The conversation touches on the Handel's growth strategy, focus on quality, and the hands-on approach to ice cream making. She also discusses the nostalgic and emotional connections people have with ice cream, the importance of the right real estate, and the challenges of the labor market. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Don Tepman, better known as 'StripMallGuy,' talks candidly about his rise to social media fame in the retail real estate world. Don discusses his beginnings in real estate, his years of anonymous posting, and the decision to reveal his identity. He shares his strategies for selecting and managing properties, focusing on mom-and-pop tenants, the challenges and rewards of revitalizing strip centers, and the importance of niche knowledge. Additionally, Don offers his candid take on the evolving retail market and reflects on the impact his social media presence has had on his business. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Keisha Virtue is Retail Research Manager for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

James Cook discusses the successful collaboration between the city of Yorba Linda, California, and Zelman Development in creating the Yorba Linda Town Center. Featuring insights from Colleen Callahan, the Economic Development Manager for the city, and Brett Foy of Zelman Development, the conversation explores the project’s conception, early challenges, and the cooperative efforts that led to its realization. The episode also delves into post-completion roles, the impacts of COVID-19 on the development, and practical advice for developers and city officials looking to collaborate effectively.  James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Alex Zikakis is President of Capstone Advisors, which invests in retail and flex properties, mainly in Southern California, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City. Alex shares the evolution of Capstone over 28 years, from its initial opportunistic real estate investing to its current strategy of 'buy, fix, and keep'. He discusses the surprising similarities between retail and industrial flex properties and the company's efforts to revitalize underperforming assets. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Hear what happened on the ICSC showroom floor with Brixmor Property Group's David Spawn, Tanger Outlet's Laura Fullington, Nuveen's Ana Leon and Big V Property Group's Mike Jordan. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Tanger CEO Stephen Yalof discusses the pivotal changes in Tanger's retail real estate strategy with JLL's Naveen Jaggi. Originally an outlet center company, Tanger is now pivoting towards experience-focused, full-price centers. Yalof outlines how post-COVID dynamics, such as the popularity of open-air environments and the addition of food and lifestyle experiences, inform this shift. The discussion also touches on retailers' cautious optimism reflected in their long-term strategies, the impact of blending full-price and outlet spaces, and Tanger's future investment plans in lesser-known but high-potential markets. The conversation concludes with insights into the evolving landscape of shopping centers, emphasizing the importance of creating compelling consumer experiences. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  htt

Gregg Katz is the Director of Business Industry Solutions for Real Estate at ESRI. He's also a lover of nostalgic retail brands. Gregg talks about his series of articles on defunct retailers and restaurants, such as Blockbuster Video, Service Merchandise, and Planet Hollywood. He reveals overarching lessons from these companies' highs and lows, including the dangers of rapid growth, staying true to the brand, and adapting to technological advances. This episode is filled with personal anecdotes, pivotal moments in retail history, and strategic business insights. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Gregg's newsletter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7262906814252437504/?displayConfirmation=true  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Common

Nishant Jain is CEO of Presso, a company with a self-service machine that autonomously cleans, deodorizes, refreshes, and presses garments in about five minutes. Jain explains how Presso's technology simplifies traditional, labor-intensive dry cleaning processes and makes them more efficient and environmentally friendly. He explores potential applications in different real estate settings, from apartment buildings and hotels to shopping centers and laundromats.  James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

George Banks of Revel is an experience-driven retail real estate veteran. He talks about the elements that make for a great retail street and successful food hall. He explores the importance of location, density, and the right tenant mix in both scenarios. He shares insights from the various projects his company has worked on across the country and provides a nuanced perspective on pedestrian streets and the merits of local versus national tenants in retail developments. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.  

Winston Fisher and Michael Beneville talk about the latest at Area 15, an immersive entertainment district in Las Vegas. They discuss the project's inception, the role of key attractions like Meow Wolf, and the unique blend of experiences that make it more than a typical entertainment venue. The interview covers Area 15's approach to creating a dynamic visitor experience through strategic curation and innovative offerings, from a 747 airplane installation to various themed districts and upcoming attractions such as Universal's Horror Unleashed. The conversation also highlights the analytical and creative strategies behind maintaining Area 15's relevance and appeal. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.  This interview was recorded with help from Entertainment Experience Evolution 2025, a conference by InterFace Conference Group, which is a division of France Media Inc. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://e

Alex Patterson is founder and CEO of Beat The Bomb, an interactive entertainment venue inspired by action movies and team-building games. The concept combines mission-based challenges with a paint bomb finale. Patterson shares insights on the business's growth, ideal real estate, and target demographics. The conversation covers Beat the Bomb's unique gaming rooms, their formation inspired his experience working at Tough Mudder, and the potential for future growth in interactive digital gaming.  This interview was recorded at Entertainment Experience Evolution 2025, a conference by InterFace Conference Group, which is a division of France Media Inc. James Cook is the director of retail research in the Americas for JLL.  Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  Listen: WhereWeBuy.show  Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com  YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here:  http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.