Econ Dev Show Podcast - Economic Development

Dane Carlson
  • 4.8 (15)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Dane Carlson explores the strategies, ideas, and insights that are driving economic development forward into the future. You'll hear new insights from passionate ED's about their successes and struggles, and you'll learn from attraction and retention experts about how to apply actionable strategies inside your EDO. We'll help take your organization, your community, and your career to the next level.

  1. Dane With Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast

    5D AGO

    Dane With Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast

    On this special crossover episode, Dane Carlson joins Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast to talk about Sitehunt, entrepreneurship, and the power of AI to help rural and small-community economic developers compete at scale. In this episode of Rural Strong, Joe and Dane explore how AI tools like Sitehunt automate site analysis, RFI responses, and data collection — giving small EDOs the same analytical firepower as their big-city counterparts. Dane shares his unlikely journey from early-2000s internet entrepreneur to chamber president in the Sierra Nevada foothills to Texas economic-development director to startup CEO. They discuss why feedback matters more than features, why execution beats ideas every time, and why even the smallest communities need a modern website, a plan, and the willingness to pivot. Dane also unpacks how child care, housing, and workforce shortages have become the new pillars of competitiveness, why AI is best thought of as a “dim-witted but persistent intern,” and how rural leaders can use technology to take back the information advantage from site selectors. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Treat AI as an intern, not an oracle. Feed it data and context to get useful answers. Launch before you're ready. Iterate in public and let real feedback drive improvement. Build a website that sells your community. Clear contact info and photos matter more than fancy graphics. Use LinkedIn as your industry newspaper. Learn from and connect with other EDOs daily. Start a local podcast. It's the best modern BRE tool and a non-threatening way to engage businesses. Plan but pivot. No plan survives first contact with reality; stay nimble. Address child care and housing head-on. They're workforce issues now, not social ones. Prioritize execution over ideas. A mediocre idea well executed beats a brilliant idea untried. Save cash for the long haul. Entrepreneurs fail more often from running out of runway than from bad concepts. Ask for feedback early and often. It's how both products and communities get better.

    27 min
  2. Inside IMPLAN: Fifty Years of Economic Impact Analysis with Candi Clouse

    NOV 3

    Inside IMPLAN: Fifty Years of Economic Impact Analysis with Candi Clouse

    In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Candi Clouse from IMPLAN joins Dane Carlson to unpack how the fifty-year-old economic-impact platform grew from a U.S. Forest Service project into the industry’s gold standard for analyzing how local and regional economies respond to change. She explains the basics of input-output modeling, how opening a single manufacturing plant can affect hundreds of related industries and household spending, and describes how IMPLAN empowers users to measure those effects in real time. Candi also shares her personal journey from psychology to economic development, the surprising ripple effects of Ohio’s motion-picture tax credit, and how IMPLAN’s data helps states compare investments, balance urban-rural needs, and plan for reshoring and supply-chain shifts. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Candi Clouse.

    23 min
  3. AI and the Future of Economic Development with Dane Carlson

    OCT 27

    AI and the Future of Economic Development with Dane Carlson

    In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson shares his talk from the Utility Economic Development Association’s 2025 Fall Forum in Traverse City, Michigan. He explains how artificial intelligence is transforming economic development from a guessing game into a data-driven discipline. Drawing from his work with Sitehunt, Dane reveals how utilities can turn raw infrastructure data like power, water, sewer, and fiber into actionable intelligence that accelerates projects, shortens RFI responses, and drives smarter investment decisions. He challenges listeners to stop optimizing for Google and start optimizing for AI, showing how even small steps like making one dataset machine readable can reshape how regions grow and compete. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! 10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Make one dataset machine readable, even if it is internal. It is the first step toward AI readiness. Think of AI as infrastructure, not a chatbot. Build systems that work continuously, not conversations. Use APIs to connect your data, automate workflows, and ensure consistency. Chain models together to combine reasoning, data retrieval, and structured writing capabilities. Capture tribal knowledge by converting what only a few people know into structured, shareable data. Automate RFI responses by integrating structured site data with AI models for instant scoring. Start vibe coding by describing outcomes and intent instead of writing brittle, rigid logic. Stop optimizing for Google. Design your data for AI systems that synthesize and act. Run small experiments monthly to test new models and internal automations. Advocate inside your organization. Utilities are the backbone of AI enabled economic development.

    19 min
  4. Lessons from One of America’s Great Neighborhoods with 3CDC's Joe Rudemiller

    OCT 20

    Lessons from One of America’s Great Neighborhoods with 3CDC's Joe Rudemiller

    In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Joe Rudemiller, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation (3CDC), about how the organization helped turn Over-the-Rhine from a crime-ridden, disinvested neighborhood into one of America’s most celebrated urban communities. Joe shares how strategic partnerships with the corporate sector, catalytic public spaces, historic preservation, and mission-driven development created a vibrant, mixed-income district filled with local businesses and active civic life. He also discusses how programming, special improvement districts, and community initiatives like GeneroCity 513 and fair-chance hiring continue to strengthen the fabric of downtown Cincinnati — and what lessons other cities can apply to their own revitalization efforts. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! 10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Partner with the corporate community -- Long-term commitment from anchor companies can provide patient capital and momentum for revitalization. Start small and scale -- Begin with one corner or block to build early wins and demonstrate what's possible. Use historic assets as a foundation -- Preserving and reusing historic buildings can anchor revitalization and attract residents and businesses. Prioritize mixed-income housing -- Transitioning from condos to affordable and workforce housing ensures inclusive growth. Activate civic spaces -- Programming parks and plazas year-round builds community and safety. Think beyond real estate -- Manage business improvement districts, events, and outreach to sustain neighborhood vibrancy. Leverage federal incentives -- Tools like New Markets and Historic Tax Credits can make otherwise infeasible projects work. Align with city leadership without being bound by it -- A nimble, non-governmental structure can speed decision-making while maintaining alignment. Invest in social programs -- Initiatives like homeless outreach and fair-chance hiring strengthen community ties and outcomes. Catalyze private investment -- Public or nonprofit investment can pave the way for private development once confidence builds. Special Guest: Joe Rudemiller.

    25 min
  5. Tackling Systemic Vacancy and Building Equity with Kat Guillaume-Delemar

    OCT 13

    Tackling Systemic Vacancy and Building Equity with Kat Guillaume-Delemar

    In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Kat Guillaume-Delemar, President and CEO of the Center for Community Progress, the nation’s only nonprofit dedicated to fixing the systems that lead to widespread vacant, abandoned, and deteriorated properties. Kat shares how systemic vacancy harms communities — from lowering property values and public health to blocking economic opportunity — and explains how policy reform, land banking, and innovative programs can restore vitality and equity to disinvested neighborhoods. Drawing from her deeply personal journey from poverty and trauma to leadership and advocacy, Kat offers inspiring insights and actionable strategies for economic developers seeking to build stronger, more human-centered communities. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! 10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Shift the language: Avoid stigmatizing terms like "blight" and instead focus on systemic vacancy and its root causes. Educate first: Increase awareness among policymakers, residents, and stakeholders about how vacancy impacts communities and economies. Push for policy reform: Support legislation like the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act to close appraisal gaps and incentivize redevelopment. Leverage land banks: Use land banks as strategic tools to acquire, manage, and repurpose vacant properties based on community priorities. Think beyond economics: Balance the pursuit of economic growth with improving quality of life and social well-being. Humanize your approach: Design strategies that prioritize people and communities over tax rolls and property values alone. Collaborate widely: Work with residents, local leaders, and policymakers to co-create solutions tailored to community needs. Address inequities: Recognize and combat systemic issues like redlining and inequitable appraisal practices that perpetuate vacancy. Champion creative placemaking: Transform vacant lots into community assets -- from affordable housing to green spaces -- that restore neighborhood vitality. Be strategically defiant: Don't shy away from challenging unjust systems; bold advocacy can lead to meaningful change. Special Guest: Kathleen Guillaume-Delemar.

    29 min
  6. How Mid-Sized Markets Win: The Topeka Story with Molly Howey

    OCT 6

    How Mid-Sized Markets Win: The Topeka Story with Molly Howey

    In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Molly Howey, CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership, to discuss how Topeka is redefining what is possible for mid-sized U.S. cities. Molly shares how uniting economic development, downtown revitalization, tourism, and the chamber under one strategic umbrella helped the city align its vision and accelerate growth. From transforming a once-quiet airfield into a future industrial hub, to building momentum in the Animal Health Corridor and nurturing homegrown startups, Molly reveals the creative thinking and community grit driving Topeka forward. Her story offers powerful lessons for any economic developer aiming to build sustainable, people-centered progress in their community. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Build coalitions that outlast personalities. Lasting economic momentum comes from strong systems, not single champions. Create structures that unite business, government, and community voices under shared priorities that continue beyond individual leaders. Treat your community as your product. Successful economic developers are storytellers and brand builders. Invest in placemaking, amenities, and perception as deliberately as you do in incentive packages and infrastructure. Leverage what already works. Identify your city's natural strengths--industry clusters, geographic advantages, or workforce skills--and double down on them. Sustainable growth often comes from amplifying existing assets, not chasing trends. Make collaboration your default setting. Align chambers, tourism groups, and EDOs so they speak with one voice. Shared data, messaging, and strategy save resources and multiply your impact. Blend local grit with global reach. Topeka's partnership with Plug and Play shows how even smaller markets can attract international innovation by thinking globally while staying true to local identity. Focus on people as much as projects. Workforce, childcare, housing, and livability are no longer "supporting factors" but central pillars of competitiveness. Put people at the center of every initiative. Tell your story relentlessly. Economic development is half execution and half narrative. Share wins, celebrate progress, and communicate constantly to reshape how residents and outsiders view your community. Simplify your strategy to amplify impact. Broad plans can dilute focus. Concentrate on a few bold goals that your team and partners can rally around, and measure success through consistent, visible progress. Encourage entrepreneurship as a civic value. Support for small businesses, startups, and innovation hubs builds resilience and broadens economic opportunity across every layer of the local economy. Keep learning, listening, and adapting. The best economic developers are curious. Study other regions, borrow ideas shamelessly, invite new perspectives, and stay flexible as industries and demographics evolve. Special Guest: Molly Howey.

    28 min

  7. SEP 29

    How North Carolina Recruits on the World Stage with Anders Victor

    In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Anders Victor, Director of International Business Development for the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, to explore how the state positions itself as a global powerhouse for foreign direct investment. Anders shares how North Carolina leverages its international offices, partnerships, and workforce strengths to attract companies like Toyota, Siemens, and Roche, while also tackling challenges around product availability, infrastructure, and talent pipelines. From lessons learned in global competition to the importance of mentorship and cultural adaptability, Anders offers practical and inspiring advice for economic developers everywhere Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Build international presence -- Overseas offices provide credibility, relationships, and cultural expertise. Don't assume awareness -- Many companies don't know your state; make introductions early. Highlight livability -- Migration, lifestyle, and culture are key decision factors alongside tax and cost advantages. Invest in product readiness -- Sites, utilities, and workforce pipelines must be shovel-ready to compete globally. Leverage co-op marketing -- Communities can pool resources to reach new markets and trade shows. Learn from losses -- Map supply chains and know how your region fits into global networks. Embrace cultural differences -- Business norms vary widely; flexibility builds trust. Prioritize mentorship -- Developing young professionals requires exposure and guidance from experienced leaders. Communicate in native languages -- Speaking a client's language strengthens partnerships and reduces friction. Stay resilient and adaptable -- Every project looks different; success comes from meeting companies where they are. Special Guest: Anders Victor.

    28 min

  8. SEP 24

    The Power of Showing Up in Communities with Jamie Beasley (Re-upload... take 2)

    (Due to technical issues, this episode has been reuploaded. My apologies to Jamie and to all our listeners. –Dane) In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson welcomes back Jamie Beasley, who shares her path from chamber leadership to her current role as a Regional Development Specialist in north central Oklahoma. Jamie discusses the joys and challenges of working with small towns, the importance of building authentic community connections, and the value of bringing fresh ideas from other places. She also introduces her new initiative, Econ Dev Ops, a virtual assistant service tailored to chambers of commerce and economic development organizations, designed to help overburdened leaders focus on strategy and growth. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Spend time in the field. Nothing replaces face-to-face conversations. Look at how other communities solve problems; good ideas travel well. Small towns often lack staff capacity; find ways to connect them to resources. Collaboration across counties and regions can amplify limited resources. Celebrate small wins to keep communities motivated for long-term goals. Don't underestimate the importance of simply listening to local leaders. Recognize that chamber directors and small-town EDs often juggle multiple roles. Consider outsourcing administrative tasks (like social media, invoicing, and newsletters) to free up strategic capacity. Include small towns in summits and regional events--they often feel overlooked. Focus on relationships and encouragement--sometimes validation is as valuable as funding. Special Guest: Jamie Beasley.

    24 min
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About

Dane Carlson explores the strategies, ideas, and insights that are driving economic development forward into the future. You'll hear new insights from passionate ED's about their successes and struggles, and you'll learn from attraction and retention experts about how to apply actionable strategies inside your EDO. We'll help take your organization, your community, and your career to the next level.

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