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In Part Two of our themed entertainment series, we shift the conversation to cost, budgeting, and what comes next. Jessica Busch is joined by Asif Parkar and Eugenie LeRoux to break down why so many themed projects stall, how early budgeting decisions make or break success, and why estimators, creative teams, and specialty vendors need to be aligned from day one. From managing complex show systems and emerging technology to prioritizing guest experience over facilities, this episode dives into the financial realities behind immersive destinations and what developers should be thinking about for the next generation of themed entertainment.

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In Part 1, we explore the surge in theme park development as global attendance climbs past pre-COVID levels. Asif Parkar and Eugenie LeRoux joins us to break down what’s fueling this momentum, from expanding markets to the rise of AI and immersive, story-driven guest experiences. We look at how technology is blurring the line between reality and fantasy and why this shift matters for owners, designers, and builders. Stay tuned for Part 2.

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Universities today face mounting pressure to expand and modernize their campuses amid tightening budgets and shifting demographics. In this episode of The Construction Insiders Podcast, host Jessica Busch sits down with Vanderbilt University’s, James Kellerhouse and Matt Riethmiller, alongside Cumming Group Vice President RJ Panda, to discuss how higher education institutions are approaching growth with strategic financial discipline.

The discussion explores Vanderbilt’s “Dare to Grow” initiative, the university’s multi-campus development in New York’s Chelsea district, and the enduring importance of place-based learning in an era defined by technology and hybrid models. The panel also unpacks key challenges and opportunities—navigating regulatory hurdles, de-risking projects through phased delivery, integrating subtle technology into historic buildings and leveraging third-party partnerships.

For professionals involved in capital planning, project delivery, or campus strategy, this episode offers a thoughtful playbook for building intelligently amid uncertainty.

*Clips of Vanderbilt University content are used by permission. Vanderbilt University does not sponsor or endorse this podcast.