In Episode 3 of the Richmond Next video podcast, host Jennifer Wakefield of the Greater Richmond Partnership sits down with Rasheeda Creighton, executive director of BLCK Street, and Joe Kane, senior director of research at the Greater Richmond Partnership, to discuss how data, artificial intelligence and lived experience are shaping a more inclusive regional economy.
The conversation explores the role of research in economic development and how data can help organizations understand trends, identify opportunities and tell a stronger regional story. Kane explained how research is not just a “wonky data” exercise, but a storytelling tool that helps leaders reach the right audiences and make more informed decisions.
The episode also highlights the Greater Richmond Partnership’s new AI-enabled economic dashboard, a free public tool featuring 28 indicators across five categories, including economic impact, business investment, population and demographics, GDP and jobs, transportation and real estate. Kane shared how the dashboard helps make regional data more accessible, flexible and useful for businesses, leaders and community partners.
Creighton brought a community perspective, noting that strong regional indicators do not always show what is happening at the small-business level. She explained that while data can show what is happening, it does not always explain why. Through BLCK Street’s work with entrepreneurs, she sees business owners seeking mentorship, capital and guidance, often without knowing where to begin. For Creighton, data must be paired with lived experience to uncover root causes and create better outcomes.
The discussion also examined Richmond’s progress in racial inclusion and economic opportunity. Kane pointed to research showing that Richmond has been “punching above its weight” over the past decade, especially in how broadly growth is being shared across the region.
Key takeaways:
Research helps Richmond tell its story and compete for investment.
AI can make complex data easier to access, but it must be used thoughtfully and questioned carefully.
Regional growth must be examined closely to understand who is benefiting and where gaps remain.
Data and lived experience are not either-or. The best decisions require both.
Richmond’s consistency, energy and willingness to embrace change give both guests optimism about the region’s next five to 10 years.
Richmond Next brings together the Richmond Times-Dispatch and the Greater Richmond Partnership to highlight the people and ideas building Greater Richmond’s future.
Real conversations with the leaders are accelerating innovation, investment and regional momentum.
New episodes drop monthly.
To watch and listen to Episode 3 of the Richmond Next video podcast, click here.
