A MEGA Minute

Ray Hagerman

Conversations about economic and community development issues among leaders, everyday people and professionals. Honest analysis, solution sharing and straight talk on what is good and what it broken that needs fixing in rural America.

Episodes

  1. 4 MAR

    From Classroom to Career: Building Muhlenberg's Future with Nika Ball

    Ray Hagerman sits down with Muhlenberg County High School Principal Nika Ball to talk about how Muhlenberg County Schools are helping students discover career paths earlier. From the NextUp initiative to hands-on career labs and community partnerships, the conversation highlights how education and economic development work together to prepare the next generation.

    21 min

  2. 5 FEB

    Leadership at Work: Shaping Muhlenberg County’s Tomorrow: Interview with Judge Mack McGehee

    In this episode of A MEGA Minute, host Ray Hagerman sits down with Muhlenberg County Judge Executive Mack McGehee for an honest and forward-looking conversation about the state of our community. Together, they reflect on the County’s biggest accomplishments from 2024 and 2025 and discuss the priorities shaping the next five years. Judge McGehee shares insight on the opportunities ahead, the challenges Muhlenberg County must realistically face, and what it will take to keep moving in the right direction. From infrastructure and economic growth to quality of life, the discussion highlights the importance of strong leadership and community collaboration. Because community development is truly a team sport, Ray also asks an important question: What can everyday citizens do to make a difference? Judge McGehee offers practical advice on how residents can support local efforts and help build a stronger, more vibrant Muhlenberg County. If you care about the future of our community, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

    22 min

  3. 29/12/2025

    Place-Making and the Power of Community

    In this year-end episode of A MEGA Minute, host Ray Hagerman reflects on the importance of placemaking and why it matters now more than ever as we look ahead to 2026. Ray breaks down what placemaking really means—using a community’s history, culture, and unique assets to create pride, attract talent, and build places where people want to live, work, and return home. From adaptive reuse of historic buildings to celebrating local heritage and natural resources, Ray shares real-world examples from Muhlenberg County and beyond, including Central City, Greenville, and even Door County, Wisconsin. He explains how thoughtful preservation and community-driven initiatives can spark economic growth, strengthen local identity, and encourage long-term investment. Ray also walks listeners through the “how” of placemaking—bringing together passionate people, building community support, creating action plans, and finding funding through local and national resources like the USDA and philanthropic partners. As the year comes to a close, this episode offers a hopeful, practical look at how small, committed groups can shape the future of their communities in meaningful ways.

    15 min

  4. 04/11/2025

    The Value of Constancy

    In this episode of A MEGA Minute, MEGA’s Ray Hagerman explores the value of constancy—why dependability, steadiness, and follow-through matter more than ever in today’s fast-changing world. Ray discusses how being consistent builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a foundation for long-term success in both business and community life.

    15 min

  5. 18/06/2025

    Work, Wages, and the Christian Viewpoint with Special Guests Father Carl McCarthy and Deacon Jay Van Hoosier

    In this thought-provoking episode, Ray Hagerman sits down with Father Carl McCarthy and Deacon Jay Van Hoosier to explore the intersection of faith, work, and economic justice. Grounded in Catholic social teaching, the conversation delves into the concept of a living wage, the dignity of work, and the role of the family as the cornerstone of a thriving society. Together, they examine how timeless Church principles speak directly to today’s workforce challenges and what it means to build an economy that serves both people and purpose. Whether you're a business leader, policymaker, or community advocate, this episode offers a fresh and morally grounded perspective on some of the most pressing issues facing our workforce today.

    56 min

  6. 24/03/2025

    Let's Make a Deal

    In this episode of A MEGA Minute, Ray Hagerman breaks down the practical side of economic development deals. From securing property and understanding infrastructure to navigating financing and community challenges, Ray shares real-world insights to help small communities successfully close deals. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to economic development, this episode is packed with common-sense advice, hard-earned lessons, and strategies to avoid costly mistakes. Tune in and learn how to turn opportunities into successful projects!

    16 min

  7. 08/01/2025

    Mindset Changes

    In the latest episode of A MEGA Minute, host Ray Hagerman dives into the exciting changes happening in Muhlenberg County! 🌟 Key Highlights: - A new high-tech T&T plant bringing jobs and innovation. - A biomass equipment company consolidating operations here—adding over 250 new jobs! - The ripple effect: An estimated $100 million annual economic impact boosting our local GDP by 15-20%! - Tackling growth challenges: housing, schools, and embracing the big changes ahead. Ray emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts as our rural community navigates this transformational period. It’s not just about economic growth—it’s about being prepared to adapt, collaborate, and thrive.

    16 min

  8. 04/11/2024

    What Economic Development Is & What Economic Development is Not

    In this episode, we dive deeper into the questions of what economic development is and what it isn't.

    20 min

  9. 16/10/2024

    How Did We Get Here?

    In this episode, we discuss how did we get here? What is economic development and why is it important? Join host Ray Hagerman as he discusses the importance of these questions.

    11 min

  10. TRAILER

    A MEGA Minute Teaser

    Welcome to A MEGA Minute! In this brief teaser, we introduce you to our host, Ray Hagerman. We explain what A MEGA Minute is all about.

    1 min

Trailer

About

Conversations about economic and community development issues among leaders, everyday people and professionals. Honest analysis, solution sharing and straight talk on what is good and what it broken that needs fixing in rural America.

Information

  • Creator
    Ray Hagerman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10