A Data Center Offered $26 Million for Her Land. She Said No.
Summary
Host Eric Schwitzgebel visits Maysville, Kentucky, to profile Delcia Bear and her mother Ida, who rejected a $26 million offer to sell their land for an AI data center. Delcia, who is nearly blind, views the project through a religious lens as the "antichrist," while local business owner Danielle Reese supports the development for its economic potential. The episode explores the deep community divide, highlighting tensions between neighbors and the broader conflict between rural preservation and technological expansion.
Topics discussed
Off-road journey with Delcia Bear in Maysville
Delcia's history with horses and bullying
The arrival of the data center project
Refusing the $26 million land offer
Show introduction and sponsor reads
Visiting Ida's home and the bats in the chimney
Discussion on invasive species and local wildlife
Delcia's religious opposition to AI and data centers
Family history and the spread of resistance
Support from fans and Kenneth Cartier's songs
Lawsuits against neighbors and community tension
Suspicions that Meta is the developer
Sponsor segments for arthritis and Workday
Arriving at the Thirsty Beaver biker bar
Interview with bar owner Danielle Reese
Economic benefits and local job concerns
Bar culture and conversations with patrons
Concerns about noise pollution and cows
Danielle's perspective on the land and change
Delcia's late husband and family conflicts
Feeding the cattle and reflections on nature
The history of the land and old graves
Ghost stories and spiritual experiences
Conclusion and final thoughts on staying put
Outro and final sponsor reads
Listen ad-free on Castria