Why Growth Scares People and How Developers Build Trust | Thad Rutherford | Ep. 6

Growth is necessary for a city to thrive, but it often comes with resistance.In this episode of Breaking Ground SA, Stephanie Reyes and Rob Killen sit down with Thad Rutherford, President and CEO of Southstar, to explore the real challenges behind development, community trust, and long-term city building.With over two decades of experience and a portfolio spanning thousands of homes and major mixed-use projects across Texas, Thad shares what it actually takes to bring complex developments to life. From navigating community pushback to building relationships that last, this conversation dives into the human side of real estate development.They also discuss the evolution of San Antonio’s south side, the future of large-scale projects like Lone Star Brewery, and why engagement and trust are just as important as financial success.If you care about how cities grow, how deals get done, and what it takes to lead in today’s development landscape, this episode is for you.Chapters:(01:00) - From Florida to Texas: Thad’s Path into Development(07:30) - Why Developers Are Often Misunderstood(10:00) - Navigating Community Pushback(14:00) - Growth, Community, and Finding Balance(16:00) - Building Trust Through Relationships(18:00) - Why Getting Involved in Your City Matters(26:00) - South Side Development and Economic Growth(33:00) - The Vision for the Lone Star Project(42:00) - Leadership, Legacy, and Advice for the Next GenerationLinks and Resources:RECSA – Real Estate Council of San Antoniohttps://recsanantonio.com/Southstar (Thad Rutherford)https://southstarcommunities.com/Sponsor Links:Security Service Title Companyhttps://www.ssfcu.org/home-loans/titleBreaking Ground SA is a podcast of the Real Estate Council of San Antonio, exploring the people, projects, and decisions shaping the future of our city.Subscribe for conversations with the leaders driving development, policy, and economic growth across San Antonio and Texas.Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media