Elevated Access | The Inside Story Podcast By Chad Hughes | CEO; Entrepreneurial Leader; Author cover art

Elevated Access | The Inside Story

Elevated Access | The Inside Story

By: Chad Hughes | CEO; Entrepreneurial Leader; Author
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Welcome to Elevated Access, a podcast about the access required for energy and infrastructure developments across North America. Join me, Chad Hughes, as we meet with those at the top of their field whose experiences have helped shape the energy and infrastructure landscape – leaders who get access. Whether you’re a business leader, project developer, or professional who has been part of the access journey, or simply interested in what enables development, this podcast sheds light on the depth of care and attention that goes into securing access for development – and just how big of an undertaking it is.2023 LandSolutions LP Earth Sciences Economics Politics & Government Science
Episodes
  • 44 - Inside the IRWA International Education Conference with Jake Farrell and Mindy Leadholm

    44 - Inside the IRWA International Education Conference with Jake Farrell and Mindy Leadholm
    Mar 25 2026

    In this episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes is joined by Jake Farrell of Omaha Public Power District and Mindy Leadholm of Washington County Public Works to preview the upcoming International Right of Way Association International Education Conference in Omaha, Nebraska. As conference co-chairs, Jake and Mindy share their professional journeys into the Right of Way industry, highlighting how mentorship, education, and association involvement helped shape their careers and leadership paths within IRWA. Their stories reflect a common theme across the profession: many find their way into Right of Way unexpectedly but stay because of the relationships, impact, and opportunities the industry offers.

    The conversation also explores the importance of IRWA Region 3 and the chapters that make up the Midwest corridor, including Minnesota, the Dakotas, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas City, and St. Louis. With increasing demand for electric transmission and large-scale infrastructure development, the region is seeing significant growth in energy infrastructure and land acquisition activity. Jake discusses how rising electrical loads driven by AI and data center expansion are creating new transmission needs across the Midwest, while Mindy shares insights from the public sector side, working on roadway easements and community-focused projects.

    Jake and Mindy also provide an inside look at what attendees can expect at the 2026 IRWA International Education Conference in Omaha. From the “Gateway to the West” conference theme to unique events like the welcome reception at the Henry Doorly Zoo and the Finnegan Fun Run crossing two states, the conference is designed to highlight both professional development and the culture of the Midwest. With more than 70 education sessions, networking opportunities, and a strong regional volunteer effort behind it, the event promises valuable learning and connection opportunities for Right of Way professionals across the industry.

    “Come with a mentality of curiosity. Omaha has a lot to offer, and if you come looking for it, you’re going to find it.” — Jake Farrell

    For more information on the IRWA 72nd Annual International Education Conference in Omaha from June 26 to 29, 2026, visit their website.

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    About Jake Farrell:

    Jake Farrell, SR/WA, is the Manager of Real Property and Land Management for Omaha Public Power District. Jake has been a member of the IRWA for ~20 years, and has served in all leadership roles at the chapter, region, and international levels during this time. Jake was the international president of the IRWA in 2021-2022. He is currently one of the co-chairs of the 2026 IRWA International Education Conference in Omaha this coming June!

    • Jake Farrell on LinkedIn

    About Mindy Leadholm:

    Mindy J. Leadholm, SR/WA - Mindy is a Property Acquisition Manager for the Washington County Public Works Department in Minnesota. She’s worked at Washington County for 18 years and has been a member of IRWA for all of those 18 years. Within Chapter 20, Mindy is a past Chapter Education Chair (2011 – 2020), Secretary (2014 – 2015), Treasurer (2015 – 2016), President Elect (2016 -2017), President (2017 – 2019), and Director (2019 – 2020). Within IRWA Region 3, Mindy is a past Secretary/Treasurer (2020 – 2021), Region Vice Chair (2021 – 2023), and Region Chair (2023 – 2025). She is currently one of the co-chairs of the 2026 IRWA Education Conference in Omaha later this year.

    • Mindy Leadholm on LinkedIn

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    Chad Hughes | CEO, Entrepreneurial Leader, Author: website | linkedin


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    1 hr
  • 43 - IEUC Symposium Spotlight with Taylor Doyle, Gina Cannova, and Blandon Granger

    43 - IEUC Symposium Spotlight with Taylor Doyle, Gina Cannova, and Blandon Granger
    Mar 4 2026
    In this special mini episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes welcomes Blandon Granger, Chair of the International Electric and Utility Committee, along with Gina Cannova and Taylor Doyle, to spotlight the upcoming IEUC Symposium taking place April 9, 2026, in New Orleans. The conversation centers on the mission of the International Electric and Utility Committee within the International Right of Way Association and its role in advancing technical knowledge, education, and networking opportunities for professionals in electric, telecommunications, water, sewer, and natural gas sectors. The group discusses the expanding demand for electric transmission projects, data center development, and grid modernization, all of which are driving new right of way challenges and opportunities. Gina outlines the educational lineup, featuring speakers from Encore, Xcel Energy, Duke Energy, SMUD, and leading industry attorneys. Topics include legal risk where construction meets right of way, federal utility relocation guidelines, infrastructure project conflicts, asset management, and real-world case studies covering eminent domain, mineral rights, conservation, and large-scale transmission development. Blandon and Taylor highlight the networking, dining, and entertainment opportunities in the host city of New Orleans. From the historic hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter to delicious local cuisine, the visit will be one to remember. Beyond the educational and cultural content, attendees will meet peers across the electric and utility sectors. With registration nearing capacity and sponsorship opportunities limited, the committee emphasizes early registration. Scholarships are also available for utility professionals seeking support to attend. For those involved in electric transmission, land acquisition, regulatory compliance, infrastructure planning, and right of way project delivery, this IEUC Symposium offers both timely education and meaningful industry connection. “Anybody that wants to stay ahead of trends, learn best practices, and connect with peers that are shaping the future of electric utilities in the right of way space should be there.” – Blandon Granger For more information on the IRWA SPARK event in New Orleans on April 9, 2026, visit LinkedIn ___ About Taylor Doyle: With a multifaceted career and roles spanning from Project Manager to General Counsel to Business Development Lead, Taylor's insights into the Energy Industry are both deep and broad. Taylor is passionate about his current position managing Doyle's Business Development Department. He loves to meet and connect with fellow industry professionals and find ways to work together in improving America's energy infrastructure. As a licensed attorney in both Louisiana and Illinois, Taylor's core legal proficiencies include crafting client agreements, ensuring regulatory compliance, and steering corporate governance frameworks. Further, Taylor holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Leadership Studies and is enthusiastic about his team members’ development and helping Doyle employees be better leaders. In 2017, he moved from New Orleans to Chicago, so feel free to ask him about the city, except for how cold it gets. (His Southern spirit is still in denial that winter is coming every year). When Taylor is not working, he enjoys cooking, volunteering in his community, and exploring Chicago with his wife, daughter, and dog. Taylor Doyle on LinkedInWebsite: DoyleLandServices.com About Gina Cannova, MAI, SR/WA, R/W-AC: Ms. Cannova is the Senior Managing Director for the O’Brien Right of Way Valuation Public sector, overseeing Transportation and Water projects, as well as Electric. She has managed and appraised numerous right-of-way projects on both transportation and utility projects over the past decade, including a 300-mile HVTL project on the West Coast. She has extensive knowledge of performing complex assignments for eminent domain in all types of real estate and has testified in over 150 Special Commissioners’ hearings in various counties within the state of Texas. Prior to re-joining O’Brien Right of Way, Ms. Cannova was the Senior Director within the Infrastructure Practice Group for Valuation & Advisory at Cushman and Wakefield, and prior to that she was the Managing Director for Transportation at O’Brien Right of Way Valuation. She also serves on the Planning & Zoning Commission for the City of Southlake, the Board for Chapter 36 International Right of Way Association (IRWA), the Board for the IRWA International Electric & Utility Committee, and is an approved IRWA PEAK Instructor. Gina Cannova on LinkedInWebsite: obrien-row.com About Blandon Granger, SR/WA: Blandon Granger is Supervisor of Real Estate Services at Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), the sixth-largest publicly owned electric utility in the United States. With over 25 years of experience in public infrastructure real estate, Blandon ...
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    31 mins
  • 42 - The Abundance of Opportunity: Charting a Dynamic Right of Way Career with Brett Farner

    42 - The Abundance of Opportunity: Charting a Dynamic Right of Way Career with Brett Farner
    Jan 14 2026
    In this episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes sits down with industry leader Brett Farner to explore the amazing and varied opportunities in the right of way and utility real estate profession. With a 17-year career spanning Ameren, Invenergy, and now a new leadership role at Toth & Associates, Brett shares a deeply insightful journey through utility infrastructure, electric transmission development, land acquisition, technology modernization, competitive transmission, and right of way leadership. Brett’s experiences offer a rare inside look at the soft skills, strategic thinking, and mindset needed to succeed in the profession.Brett emphasizes the career-defining importance of staying curious, asking questions, seeking mentorship, and being unafraid to take on work that no one has attempted before. From shoreline permitting at Lake of the Ozarks to navigating intense public opposition on the 100-mile Mark Twain Transmission Project, Brett discusses the nuances of building stakeholder trust. He shares how transparency, fair market valuation, and genuine listening transformed a highly opposed project into a success delivered ahead of schedule.Brett encourages newcomers to see the profession as a long-term, rewarding career path. He emphasizes that this profession desperately needs new talent, and the upward mobility is tremendous for those who lean into learning and leadership. With advice for newcomers and seasoned professionals alike, he encourages listeners to stay open-minded, stay curious, invest in their development, and recognize the essential role real estate plays in the success of every infrastructure project.“If I see something that could be better, I’m not just going to point it out—I’m willing to carry the load to make the improvement.” - Brett FarnerAbout Brett Farner: Brett Farner is an accomplished leader in the utility real estate and right of way industry, recognized for his ability to develop strategic direction, drive innovation, and deliver complex infrastructure projects. With nearly two decades of experience, Brett has consistently demonstrated expertise in property acquisition, transmission development, and organizational leadership across the energy sector.In his current role as Manager of ROW and Real Estate Acquisition at Toth & Associates, Brett oversees all aspects of right of way acquisition and real estate strategies for complex development projects. He is responsible for ensuring compliance, optimizing processes, and fostering collaborative partnerships with stakeholders to support the successful delivery of large-scale infrastructure initiatives.Prior to joining Toth & Associates, Brett served as Director of Transmission Development at Invenergy LLC, a leading global developer of sustainable energy solutions. There, he led teams executing land campaigns for major HVDC transmission projects, managed budgets exceeding $100M, and implemented visionary organizational plans to support the organization’s strategic growth in emerging markets.Earlier in his career, Brett spent 15 years at Ameren Corporation, a Fortune 500 energy company, where he advanced through multiple leadership roles. As Manager of Real Estate, he directed a property portfolio in excess of $1B, spearheaded a $12.1M customer affordability initiative, and managed technology-driven improvements to enhance operational efficiency. His tenure also included oversight of large-scale transmission projects, including the Mark Twain Transmission Project, where he was the lead for real estate on routing, public engagement, property acquisition, and construction support.Brett holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Webster University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) from the University of Missouri, with emphases in finance, banking, and real estate. He earned the prestigious Senior Right of Way Professional (SR/WA) designation from the International Right of Way Association (IRWA) and has served in numerous leadership roles within the organization, including Past International Director and Chapter President. He also contributed as a past member of the Board of Trustees for the Right of Way International Education Foundation (RWIEF), is a frequent industry speaker and has been published in Right of Way Magazine.Known for his strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and commitment to excellence, Brett continues to champion innovation and professional development within the utility and real estate sectors.---Chad Hughes | CEO, Entrepreneurial Leader, Author: website | linkedinBrett Farner | Manager of ROW and Real Estate Acquisition | Toth & Associates: linkedin Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    1 hr and 24 mins
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