Boone Tea

James Milner, CCIM and Jamie Sherar

Welcome to Boone Tea! Our goal is to take complex commercial real estate (CRE) topics and translate them into “why this matters to Boone residents and business owners.”

Episodes

  1. Jul 12

    Episode 7 - Summertime in the High Country

    Boone comes alive in the summer, and this episode explores how tourism, recreation, and seasonal business activity shape the local economy and commercial real estate market. From hiking, fishing, and downtown dining to infrastructure, growth, and preservation, we look at what makes Boone such a compelling place to visit and invest in. Takeaways Summer tourism drives Boone's commercial real estate marketRecreational activities play a significant role in attracting visitors to Boone's tourism and recreation plays a significant role in shaping the local economy.Challenges such as seasonality, labor, and infrastructure impact commercial real estate and business operations. Timestamps 03:26 Impact of Summer Tourism on the Economy06:20 Perfect Summer Day Itinerary in Boone13:54 Recreational Activities and Commercial Real Estate15:40 Influence of Outdoor Recreation on Business Locations17:04 Key Recreational Activities in Watauga County26:29 Expansion of Indoor Recreational Activities29:45 Exploring Boone's Tourism and Recreation31:18 Challenges of Seasonality and Labor33:13 Impact of Parking and Congestion39:18 Vision for the Future of Real Estate43:20 Expanding Business Opportunities54:15 Appeal of Boone's Summer Season Thank you for tuning in and supporting the podcast. Be sure to follow, share and if you leave a review it might even get a shout out on a future episode. In other news, we are officially on Instagram so find us at @booneteapodcast and connect, let us know a topic, building or commercial real estate issue you would like us to discuss.

  2. Jul 3

    Episode 6 - Jamie Flips The Script

    Jamie puts James in the hot seat! This episode is a detailed discussion on Boone's commercial real estate landscape, exploring the boom and bust cycles of car washes, hotel development, and the balancing act between local taste and national chains. We also dive into traffic concerns, infrastructure challenges, and the future of commercial real estate in the High Country. In this episode: The factors behind Boone's car wash proliferation and market cyclesHow hotel development reflects Boone’s tourism strength and community impactThe relationship between commercial real estate, traffic patterns, and infrastructureChallenges and opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneursUnderstanding real estate turnover, tenant mix, and market supply constraintsThe importance of infrastructure in supporting sustainable growthPractical advice for entrepreneurs eyeing Boone’s prime locations Timestamps: 02:27 - Why car washes keep popping up 07:46 - The hotel boom and tourism demand 13:49 - Local growth, tourism, and community identity 20:53 - Local businesses vs. national chains 32:34 - Childcare, wages, and unmet community needs 35:32 - The Hardees site and the new Mountaineer Tavern concept 40:21 - Why some properties have high turnover 50:36 - Traffic, access, and development constraints 61:27 - Lightning round and final takeaways Thank you for tuning in and supporting the podcast. Be sure to follow, share, and if you leave a review, comment or question for us, it makes us smile!

  3. Jun 12

    Episode 5 - Special Guest: David Jackson

    James and Jamie welcome David Jackson, President & CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, as the first guest on the Boone Tea Podcast. David joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about what makes Boone unique, how Appalachian State University shapes the region, the challenges and opportunities facing local development, and the industries driving the High Country's future growth. Along the way, he shares insights on economic development, community identity, affordability, innovation, and what it takes to build a healthy local economy. Takeaways Boone's character is shaped by its strong sense of community, distinct identity, and natural beauty.App State is a major driver of the region's economy, culture, and innovation ecosystem.Sustainable growth in Boone requires balancing modernization with preservation of the community's character.Economic development depends on a healthy workforce, reliable infrastructure, and housing affordability.Strong partnerships between local government, businesses, educational institutions, and residents are essential to long-term success.Emerging industries, particularly healthcare and life sciences, present significant opportunities for economic growth in the High Country. Chapters 00:00 Introducing David Jackson05:31 Boone's Community and Identity16:32 App State's Growth and Impact21:46 Development Needs in Boone33:54 Misconceptions About Developers41:33 Growing Industries in Boone46:47 Attracting Healthcare and Life Sciences Companies52:14 Defining a Healthy Local Economy01:15:32 Lightning Round of Community Insights Quick Links Boone Area Chamber of Commerce NCInnovation Thanks for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, consider following the show and leaving a rating or review—it helps more people discover conversations about Boone and the High Country.

  4. May 31

    Episode 4 - How Commercial Real Estate Actually Works

    James covers his experience at the ICSC Vegas convention, networking at the event, and conversations with retailers. This episode delves into the different types of commercial real estate and specialized roles that brokers can have. We discuss various types of commercial real estate transactions, including leasing and sales. It explores the complexities of leasing, the different types of leases, and the valuation of commercial properties. Additionally, it highlights the challenges and the importance of relationships in the commercial real estate industry. Takeaways Different types of Commercial Real EstateCommercial Real Estate TransactionsSpecialized roles in Commercial Real EstateUnderstanding the different types of leases, such as gross lease, modified gross lease, and triple net lease, is crucial in commercial real estate. Chapters 00:00 ICSC Vegas Convention14:31 Types of Commercial Real Estate22:16 Roles in Commercial Real Estate30:23 Appraisers and Lenders39:11 Types of Commercial Real Estate Transactions55:02 Valuation of Commercial Properties01:03:42 Challenges and Relationships in Commercial Real Estate If you enjoyed this episode we would appreciate you leaving us a five star rating or sharing with a friend. We welcome questions or suggestions for future episodes. Until next time.

  5. May 15

    Episode 3 - Why certain retailers won't come to Boone

    The episode covers a range of topics related to retail real estate, and the factors influencing the presence of specific retailers in Boone. It also delves into the use of data analytics to understand consumer behavior and make informed retail decisions. The conversation delves into the retail landscape of Boone, North Carolina, exploring the factors that influence the success and viability of retail businesses in the area. It provides insights into the demographic fit, market dynamics, and the challenges faced by retailers in tertiary markets. Takeaways Understanding consumer behavior and demographic data is crucial for making informed retail decisions.Demographic fit is a crucial factor for retailers in tertiary markets.Retailers in smaller markets need to consider factors such as population, income, and logistics for success. Chapters 05:07 Why Certain Retailers Won't Come to Boone13:06 Franchisee-Franchisor Relationship and Retail Real Estate19:31 Understanding Retailer Presence and Consumer Behavior30:32 Data-Driven Retail Decision Making38:43 Retail Landscape of Boone, NC43:43 Retailer Selection and Market Dynamics50:56 Construction Costs and Retail Development56:42 Local Business and Community Needs01:03:37 Future of Retail in Boone, NC James is heading to ICSC Vegas, the Superbowl of retail real estate. If you are going out there and want to connect, feel free to reach out via email or social media. You can find his contact information at www.appalachiancre.com.

  6. May 5

    Episode 2 - Downtown Boone, NC

    The conversation delves into the vibrant and diverse landscape of Downtown Boone, covering its attractions, eateries, projects, and the impact of the North Carolina Main Street Program. It also explores the role of the Downtown Boone Development Association and the Municipal Service District, as well as the area's economic vitality. The conversation emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and retailers, as well as the flexibility and unique offerings of downtown retailers. Takeaways Downtown Boone is a vibrant and diverse hub with attractions, eateries, and projects that contribute to its economic vitality.The role of the Downtown Boone Development Association, the Municipal Service District, and the North Carolina Main Street Program is crucial for the success and growth of Downtown Boone. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Downtown Boone05:08 The Green and Wilcox Building10:19 The Main Points of the DBDA16:27 Howard Street Revitalization Project22:34 First piece of Boone Tea Show Notes: For more information on Downtown Boone, NC go to www.downtownboonenc.comBoonerang is June 19-21, 2026 and for more information go to www.boonerangfest.com

  7. Apr 24

    Welcome to Boone Tea | Episode 1 - The Housing Crisis

    Welcome to Boone Tea! This podcast aims to address complex commercial real estate issues and explain why they matter to Boone residents and business owners. The conversation delves into the dynamics of real estate supply and demand, the impact of construction costs on housing, economic factors affecting housing development, policy and regulatory frameworks for housing development, and the concept of micro housing as a solution to housing needs. Takeaways Challenges of the housing crisisImpact of interest rates on housingAffordability and availability of housingReal estate supply and demandImpact of construction costs on housingEconomic factors affecting housing developmentPolicy and regulations in housing developmentMicro housing as a solution for housing needs Chapters 00:00 Introductions | Housing Market Trends30:56 Real Estate Supply and Demand36:24 Impact of Construction Costs on Housing42:12 Economic Factors Affecting Housing Development50:20 Micro Housing as a Solution for Housing Needs

  • 7 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

About

Welcome to Boone Tea! Our goal is to take complex commercial real estate (CRE) topics and translate them into “why this matters to Boone residents and business owners.”

Information

  • Creator
    James Milner, CCIM and Jamie Sherar
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 James Milner, CCIM and Jamie Sherar
  • Show Website
    Boone Tea

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