Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Develop This! Podcast
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Explore topics related to transformational community leadership including economic development, non-profit engagement, organizational management, and policy development. It's a candid conversation with veterans of the economic development profession along with inspiring interviews of today's thought leaders.

  1. DT #658 Building Stronger Communities Through Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

    −6 d

    DT #658 Building Stronger Communities Through Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

    What if the next wave of economic growth starts with local entrepreneurs? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Rob Williams of SourceLink to explore how entrepreneurship-led economic development can help communities build stronger, more resilient economies. Rob shares how communities—especially rural ones—can leverage their unique assets to support entrepreneurs, strengthen local ecosystems, and create long-term growth from within. The conversation highlights SourceLink's ecosystem approach, focusing on how connecting entrepreneurs to the right resources, partners, and support networks can reduce fragmentation and accelerate success. A major theme is measurement. Rob discusses why communities need better ways to track entrepreneurial activity, job creation, and ecosystem health beyond traditional economic development metrics. The discussion also explores the growing role of AI, broadband, and technology in unlocking innovation at scale and expanding access for entrepreneurs in both rural and urban markets. A key takeaway? Strong entrepreneurial ecosystems are built through connection, collaboration, and a clear understanding of what local businesses need to grow. Key Takeaways Entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of local economic growth Young firms play a major role in job creation Rural communities can build innovation around their unique assets Strong ecosystems require clear connections between resources and entrepreneurs AI and broadband are expanding access to innovation Success should be measured through ecosystem health, not just traditional metrics Key Topics Covered Entrepreneurship-led economic development Rural innovation and community assets SourceLink's ecosystem-building approach Metrics for entrepreneurial success AI and technology in entrepreneurship Economic development education and the role of IEDC Sound Bites "Job creation starts with young firms." "AI is unlocking innovation at scale." "Connect, collaborate, and innovate."

    37 min
  2. DT #659 How Public-Private Partnerships Are Reshaping Economic Development

    −6 d

    DT #659 How Public-Private Partnerships Are Reshaping Economic Development

    What role do public-private partnerships play in the future of economic development? In this panel episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise explores the evolving PPP landscape with Joachim Arnold, Matt Chambers, and Clint Nessmith, bringing together perspectives from the U.S. and Europe. The conversation dives into how economic development organizations are rethinking funding models, private sector engagement, and long-term sustainability in a changing global environment. A major focus is funding diversification. The panel discusses why stable, flexible funding matters—and how structured campaigns can help formalize private sector participation in economic growth strategies. The discussion also explores global FDI trends, infrastructure investment, geopolitical uncertainty, and the importance of adapting economic development models to local and international realities. A key takeaway? Strong public-private partnerships create the structure, trust, and shared investment needed to drive sustainable economic growth. Key Takeaways Public-private partnerships are evolving across global markets Funding diversification is critical for long-term sustainability Private sector engagement strengthens economic development strategy Geopolitical uncertainty is reshaping investment decisions Community engagement can open new doors for growth Structured campaigns help formalize stakeholder participation Key Topics Covered Public-private partnership models Funding diversification in economic development Global trends in FDI and infrastructure investment U.S. and European economic development strategies Stakeholder and private sector engagement Adapting to geopolitical uncertainty Sound Bites "Funding stability is a key strength of the US model." "Community engagement opens doors for economic growth." "Structured campaigns formalize private sector engagement."

    37 min
  3. DT #656 Growth vs Identity: The Real Cost of Austin's Tech Boom

    24 juni

    DT #656 Growth vs Identity: The Real Cost of Austin's Tech Boom

    What happens when rapid tech growth collides with a city's cultural identity? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Jon Roberts and Tracy McDaniel of TIP Strategies to explore the evolution of Austin's tech boom—and the social and economic trade-offs that come with it. Once known for its distinct culture and creative energy, Austin has become one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the U.S. But as investment and innovation accelerate, the conversation turns to a harder question: what gets lost in the process? The discussion unpacks the growing tensions between economic expansion and community impact, including rising disparities, housing pressures, and the challenge of maintaining Austin's identity amid large-scale development. A key theme is the need to rethink how success is measured in economic development—moving beyond pure growth metrics to include equity, inclusion, and long-term community health. The conversation also touches on emerging forces like AI and data infrastructure, and how they may further reshape the city's trajectory in the years ahead. A central takeaway? Growth without inclusion risks reshaping not just economies—but the communities they're meant to serve. Key Takeaways Austin's tech growth is reshaping its cultural and economic identity Rapid development has created increasing social and economic disparities Inclusive growth requires intentional community engagement strategies Traditional economic metrics may overlook equity and livability AI and data infrastructure will continue to influence urban development Balancing innovation with identity is a growing challenge for cities Key Topics Covered Evolution of Austin's tech ecosystem Cultural identity and urban transformation Social and economic impacts of rapid growth Inclusive economic development strategies Gentrification and community displacement AI, data centers, and future urban trends Sound Bites "Are we losing Austin's identity?" "AI will run out of things to mine." "Austin will always be magnetic."

    30 min
  4. DT #657 Beyond Small: Winning Strategies for Rural Economic Development

    24 juni

    DT #657 Beyond Small: Winning Strategies for Rural Economic Development

    What does it take for rural communities to compete and grow in today's economy? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Jolene Schalper, EVP of the Great Falls Montana Development Alliance, to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping rural economic development. Jolene shares her journey from nonprofit leadership into economic development and explains how collaboration, creativity, and community trust play critical roles in driving regional growth. The conversation highlights how Great Falls is leveraging local strengths to support entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create long-term economic momentum. Workforce and housing challenges are also a major focus, with Jolene emphasizing the importance of data-driven strategies and proactive planning to support sustainable growth. The discussion also explores how rural communities can position themselves competitively for larger opportunities, including foreign direct investment, while still maintaining strong local identity and community connections. A key takeaway? Rural communities have unique advantages—and with the right leadership, partnerships, and vision, they can compete far beyond their size. Key Takeaways Rural communities can compete by leveraging local strengths and partnerships Collaboration and trust-building are essential for long-term growth Entrepreneurship plays a major role in rural economic resilience Housing and workforce challenges require proactive, data-driven solutions Creativity and adaptability are critical in economic development leadership Rural regions can successfully attract major investment opportunities Key Topics Covered Rural economic development strategies Community collaboration and leadership Entrepreneurship and small business support Workforce and housing challenges Foreign direct investment opportunities Professional development in economic development Sound Bites "Data drives decisions in our housing strategy." "We swing for the fences to grow our community." "Second place sucks—no ribbon for losing."

    37 min
  5. DT #654 Rebuilding Better: How New Orleans Turned Disaster Into Long-Term Economic Growth

    17 juni

    DT #654 Rebuilding Better: How New Orleans Turned Disaster Into Long-Term Economic Growth

    What does it take to rebuild an economy after a disaster—and turn it into a model for long-term growth? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Michael Hecht, CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., to explore lessons learned from leading economic recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina and 9/11. Michael shares how New Orleans approached rebuilding not just infrastructure, but its entire economic foundation—balancing urgency with long-term strategy, and recovery with reinvention. A major theme is the importance of community involvement in shaping recovery efforts. He emphasizes that post-disaster planning cannot be top-down, and that successful rebuilding requires both structure and local autonomy to respond effectively to evolving needs. The conversation also highlights how New Orleans has leveraged innovation, incentives, and workforce development to reposition itself for future growth—particularly in emerging sectors like tech and innovation. A key takeaway? Economic recovery is not just about rebuilding what was lost—it's about designing something stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient. Key Takeaways Post-disaster recovery requires both structure and local autonomy Community involvement is essential in rebuilding efforts Incentives must balance short-term recovery with long-term value Workforce development is critical to economic resilience Innovation is playing a growing role in New Orleans' economic shift Strong leadership is key to navigating complex recovery environments Key Topics Covered Post-disaster economic recovery strategies Lessons from Hurricane Katrina and 9/11 recovery efforts Community involvement in economic planning Workforce development and skills alignment Incentive design for sustainable growth Leadership approaches in crisis and recovery Sound Bites "You can't plan top down post disaster." "Create structure but give autonomy." "Stay proactive and avoid complacency."

    32 min
  6. DT #655 Building Thriving Communities: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of Regional

    17 juni

    DT #655 Building Thriving Communities: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of Regional

    What does it take to build thriving communities across an entire region? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Barb Lamue to explore her unique journey from law enforcement to economic development—and the leadership lessons she's learned along the way. Drawing from decades of experience in regional collaboration and workforce strategy, Barb shares how trust, authenticity, and long-term relationship building have helped shape successful community development efforts across Wisconsin. A major focus of the conversation is workforce development, particularly the growing importance of digital upskilling, adaptability, and preparing communities for the future of work. Barb also discusses the role mentorship and continuous learning play in developing effective leaders and resilient organizations. The discussion highlights the power of regional partnerships and public-private collaboration, showing how aligned communities can create stronger economic outcomes than isolated efforts. A key takeaway? Sustainable economic development starts with people—building trust, investing in talent, and leading with authenticity. Key Takeaways Regional collaboration is built on trust and long-term relationships Workforce development and digital skills are critical for future growth Authentic leadership strengthens community impact Mentorship and lifelong learning are essential in economic development Public-private partnerships drive stronger regional outcomes Community prosperity requires intentional collaboration and service Key Topics Covered Transition from law enforcement to economic development Regional collaboration and trust-building Workforce development and digital upskilling Leadership lessons and mentorship Community impact and innovative programs Future trends in economic development and AI Sound Bites "Act with integrity and be the best version of yourself" "Our mission is always to build prosperity for communities" "Be authentic and true to yourself in community support"

    35 min
  7. DT #652 Small Country, Big Strategy: Costa Rica's Rise in High-Value Global Investment

    10 juni

    DT #652 Small Country, Big Strategy: Costa Rica's Rise in High-Value Global Investment

    What does it take for a small country to compete for high-value global investment in today's economy? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Pilar Madrigal of the Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency to explore how Costa Rica is evolving into a strategic hub for advanced industries and foreign direct investment. From its geographic position connecting North and South America to its growing reputation in high-tech sectors, Costa Rica is positioning itself as more than a nearshoring destination—it's becoming a knowledge-driven economy focused on long-term value creation. Pilar explains how the country has successfully diversified beyond tourism into industries such as life sciences, digital health, medical technology, AI, and advanced manufacturing. This transformation is powered by a strong emphasis on talent development and education, which she describes as the foundation of Costa Rica's competitiveness. A key theme throughout the conversation is that investment decisions are shifting. Companies are no longer just prioritizing cost or proximity—they are evaluating talent availability, risk mitigation, ecosystem stability, and total operating value. The discussion also highlights the importance of trust and strategic advisory relationships in attracting and retaining global investors, as well as Costa Rica's intentional focus on building long-term partnerships rather than transactional wins. A central takeaway? Costa Rica's competitive edge lies not in scale, but in stability, talent, and a deliberate strategy to move up the value chain. Key Takeaways Costa Rica serves as a strategic bridge between North and South America The economy is shifting from tourism to high-value knowledge industries Talent development is the core driver of long-term competitiveness Nearshoring now prioritizes resilience and value over proximity alone Trust and long-term partnerships are key to investor attraction Stability and ecosystem maturity offset size limitations Investment decisions increasingly focus on total operating value Key Topics Covered Costa Rica's geographic and strategic advantages Economic diversification into high-tech and life sciences Workforce development and talent pipeline strategies Challenges of scale and cost competitiveness Role of investment promotion and advisory strategy Nearshoring and global investment trends Trust-building with international investors Sound Bites "The main hurdle is the size of the talent pool." "The future of FDI is about transformation." "A common mistake is competing only on cost."

    28 min
  8. DT #653 Leading with Vision: Why Communities Need Big, Audacious Goals

    10 juni

    DT #653 Leading with Vision: Why Communities Need Big, Audacious Goals

    What role do big, bold visions play in shaping stronger communities and more effective leaders? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Mark Perna to explore how optimism, storytelling, and ambitious goals can inspire innovation, community engagement, and long-term growth. Drawing inspiration from the Apollo 11 Moon Landing, the conversation examines how major rallying points can unite people around a shared purpose and create momentum for transformational change. Mark and Dennis discuss the importance of balancing realism with aspiration in leadership, emphasizing that communities need both practical strategies and compelling visions for the future. They also highlight how storytelling helps leaders connect emotionally with people and build trust around bold ideas. A major theme throughout the episode is courage—the willingness to make decisive moves, embrace uncertainty, and think beyond short-term challenges in pursuit of meaningful progress. A key takeaway? People are drawn to hope, purpose, and leaders who are willing to think bigger than the moment in front of them. Key Takeaways Optimism and vision are essential drivers of community growth Shared rallying points can unite and energize communities Storytelling strengthens leadership and public engagement Effective leaders balance realism with aspiration Courage and decisiveness are critical in driving change Long-term thinking is necessary for lasting impact Key Topics Covered Vision and optimism in leadership Apollo and transformational thinking Community engagement through storytelling Leadership habits that fuel innovation Balancing aspiration with practical action Purpose-driven leadership for future generations Sound Bites "People want hope more than anything" "What's in it for me?" "Fear of loss drives big, audacious goals"

    28 min
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Explore topics related to transformational community leadership including economic development, non-profit engagement, organizational management, and policy development. It's a candid conversation with veterans of the economic development profession along with inspiring interviews of today's thought leaders.

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