Shows
The Government ConnectionEpisode 3 - Powering Tomorrow: Solutions for a Changing GridSend us a textIn this episode of The Government Connection, Mary Scott Nabers interviews Pat Wood, CEO of Hunt Energy Network and former chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, about America's critical energy challenges. They explore the evolution of energy regulation, the growing demand from data centers and innovations in battery storage technology. The conversation highlights cybersecurity threats to power infrastructure, the importance of backup generation during outages and the resurgence of nuclear as a clean energy solution. Pat offers valuable insights for public officials on building resilient energy systems capable of withstanding extreme weather...2025-05-2328 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 2 - Tapping the Future: Water Infrastructure SolutionsSend us a textIn this episode of The Government Connection, Mary Scott Nabers interviews Michael Irlbeck, Director of Business Development at EPCOR, about America's critical water challenges. They explore the paradox of water abundance versus infrastructure shortages, the growing demands from data centers and innovative public-private partnerships like San Antonio's Vista Ridge Pipeline. The conversation highlights the urgent need for investment in water systems, addressing emerging contaminant concerns and building political will to secure our water future. Meet your host:Mary Scott Nabers is President/CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (S...2025-04-2426 min
The Government ConnectionEpisode 1 - Mapping the Future: LIDAR Technology and Infrastructure PlanningSend us a textIn our first episode of Season 2, Mary Scott Nabers interviews Richard Wade, the geographic information officer for Texas, about the transformative technology of LIDAR (Light Detecting and Ranging). They discuss how LIDAR is revolutionizing data collection and geospatial mapping, particularly in understanding and managing environmental challenges such as flooding, utility management and urban planning. Meet your host:Mary Scott Nabers is President/CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (SPI). A recognized expert regarding P3s, she is the author of Collaboration Nation – How Public-Private Ventures Are Revolutionizing the Bu...2025-03-2522 minThe Government ConnectionThe Connection Season 1 FinaleSend us a textIn this season finale, hosts Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers reflect on the highlights of season one. They discuss major themes like disruption, decision-makers and key issues in government funding, emphasizing the crucial role of public-private partnerships in addressing infrastructure challenges. They touch on significant events like the Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore and innovations such as Vertiports and broadband expansion. Looking forward to season two, they'll explore housing, water infrastructure, sustainability and AI, and they invite listeners to share their ideas for future episodes.Meet the expert c...2024-06-1220 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 11 - Former port director discusses the future of America's portsSend us a textIn Episode 11 of The Connection, hosts Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers talk with Chris Ward, former Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, about the implications of the Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore and the future of U.S. ports. They discuss the growing importance of private sector investment for port operations, including climate change and infrastructure challenges. Tune in for expert insights on the evolving role of ports and the opportunities presented by significant federal funding. Meet the expert guest:Christopher Ward i...2024-05-2925 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 10 - Best practices for winning federal grant funding with Mary Scott Nabers and Marshall MacomberSend us a textJoin Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers as they explore the complexities of government grant funding. With Congress allocating over $1 trillion annually, Marshall and Mary provide a candid discussion on the opportunities and challenges within this substantial funding pool. Through practical analysis and expert advice, they offer essential strategies for effectively navigating the grant process. From fostering partnerships to articulating project benefits, you gain valuable insights into securing funding for your communities or organizations. Tune in now and gain a comprehensive understanding of accessing government grants.Meet the expert co-hosts: 2024-05-1517 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 9 - North Texas Mayor Discusses Upcoming OpportunitiesSend us a textJoin Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers on the latest episode of "The Connection" as they sit down with Mayor Jim Ross of Arlington, Texas. Mayor Ross discusses the vibrant growth and development in Arlington, sharing insights on the city's strategic partnerships and innovative approaches to fostering economic prosperity, education and community well-being. Tune in to learn how Mayor Ross's leadership and collaborative efforts are shaping the future of Arlington and inspiring other cities to pursue sustainable growth and inclusive development. Meet the expert guest:Jim Ross, ele...2024-05-0122 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 8 - Upcoming Transit-Oriented Development ProjectsSend us a textJoin Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers on The Connection podcast as they explore the latest in transit-oriented development (TOD). Delving into TOD and affordable housing initiatives nationwide, they highlight the impact of federal funding on urban landscapes and community well-being. Discover the transformative potential of public-private partnerships (P3s) in driving innovation and addressing housing challenges. Don't miss this insightful discussion on shaping the future of our communities. Meet the expert co-hosts: Marshall Macomber is a visionary executive with a unique blend of business development, political strategy, communications...2024-04-1719 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 7 - How Louisiana was the First State to Receive BEAD ApprovalSend us a textJoin hosts Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers as they sit down with Thomas Tyler, Deputy Director of the State Broadband Office in Louisiana, for an insightful conversation on broadband development and connectivity initiatives. Thomas provides an in-depth overview of Louisiana's efforts to bridge the digital divide, including the establishment of the Connect LA office and the implementation of strategic broadband grant programs. With a focus on urgency and collaboration, Thomas shares the state's timeline for allocating funds and engaging with internet service providers and electric cooperatives. Tune in to discover how Louisiana...2024-04-0319 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 6 - OKC Mayor Holt talks $1B NBA ArenaSend us a textIn this episode of The Connection podcast, co-hosts Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers welcome Mayor David Holt of Oklahoma City as their guest. Mayor Holt provides insights into the leadership and development initiatives driving Oklahoma City's growth. H The conversation highlights a major upcoming project: the construction of a new arena, which Mayor Holt describes as a critical endeavor for maintaining Oklahoma City's status as a big-league city. He discusses the challenges and strategies involved in securing public support for such a significant investment, emphasizing the importance of clear communication a...2024-03-2019 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 5 - P3s with Mary and MarshallSend us a textIn episode 5 of "The Connection," Marshall Macomber of Think P3 and Mary Scott Nabers of Strategic Partnerships, Inc. delve into the intricacies of public-private partnerships (P3s). As seasoned professionals in the field, they address the fundamental questions surrounding P3s, such as what they entail and how governments can embark on such ventures. From the importance of having a clear vision to the role of advisors in the process, Marshall and Mary offer invaluable insights for public officials navigating the complexities of P3 projects. Join them as they discuss best practices, common...2024-03-0624 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 4 - Victoria Johnson Talks Equity in InfrastructureSend us a textJoin hosts Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers on the latest episode of The Connection: Partnering Public & Private Entities podcast, as they engage in a dynamic conversation on equity in public infrastructure with Victoria Johnson, Global Equity Director for HDR.Johnson provides invaluable insights into the multifaceted concept of equity, delving into its implications for the distribution of benefits and burdens across communities. From race and income to geography, she sheds light on the complex dynamics shaping infrastructure development in the United States.As the discussion unfolds, Johnson underscores...2024-02-2123 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 3 - Fermin Fontanes Talks P3s in Puerto RicoSend us a textJoin hosts Marshall Macomber and Mary Scott Nabers as they delve into the world of public-private partnerships (P3s) in Puerto Rico. In this episode, they're joined by Fermin Fontanes, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Public-Private Partnerships Authority, to discuss the thriving economy of Puerto Rico, driven by manufacturing and tourism. Discover the exciting array of P3 projects, including airports, seaports, energy infrastructure, and more, offering lucrative opportunities for companies in the United States. Learn about the robust legal framework supporting P3 initiatives and how interested parties can get involved. Don't miss...2024-02-0225 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 2 – Caryn Moore Lund Talks VertiportsSend us a text🚁✨ Exploring the Future of Air Travel: Caryn Moore Lund, VP of Public Policy, Regulatory, and Government Affairs at Ferrovial Airports, delves into the revolutionary concept of Vertiports in our latest podcast episode. Discover how these small, secure facilities pave the way for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, promising eco-friendly, efficient mobility. From the timeline for commercialization to Florida leading the way, Caryn unveils the imminent changes in air transportation. Airlines, airports, and other industries are investing, while public officials and developers must gear up for a seamless integration process. Tune in to st...2024-01-2626 minThe Government ConnectionEpisode 2 – Caryn Moore Lund Talks Vertiports🚁✨ Exploring the Future of Air Travel: Caryn Moore Lund, VP of Public Policy, Regulatory, and Government Affairs at Ferrovial Airports, delves into the revolutionary concept of Vertiports in our latest podcast episode. Discover how these small, secure facilities pave the way for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, promising eco-friendly, efficient mobility. From the timeline for commercialization to Florida leading the way, Caryn unveils the imminent changes in air transportation. Airlines, airports, and other industries are investing, while public officials and developers must gear up for a seamless integration process. Tune in to stay ahead in the era of ad...2024-01-2328 minThe Government ConnectionWelcome to the Connection: Partnering Public & Private EntitiesSend us a text🎙️ Episode Title: "Bridging Sectors: The Debut of 'The Connection'"Welcome to the inaugural episode of "The Connection: Partnering Public & Private Entities," where hosts Mary Scott Nabers and Marshall Macomber delve into the transformative world of public-private partnerships (PPPs). In this insightful discussion, they explore how PPPs are pivotal in tackling some of the nation's most pressing challenges.🔍 Key Highlights:Introducing 'The Connection' Podcast: Discover the mission and vision behind our new podcast series. It's more than just a conversation; it's about creating a collab...2024-01-0922 min