Econ Dev Show Podcast - Economic Development - Episodes Tagged with “Economic Development”

213: How a Town of 30,000 Competes (and Wins) in Economic Development with Tim Hanigan

Dane Carlson — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Tim Hanigan, CEO of the Aberdeen Development Corporation in Aberdeen, South Dakota, about how a rural community of 30,000 punches above its weight in economic development.

Tim explains how Aberdeen leverages entrepreneurship, regional workforce draw, and value-added agriculture to build one of the most diverse micropolitan economies in the U.S. The conversation dives into practical tools like revolving loan funds, shovel-ready site development, and tight-knit community coordination, along with lessons learned from winning and losing projects.

Tim also shares how rural economic developers must wear many hats, from childcare advocacy to housing and workforce development, and why knowing your limits and leaning into your strengths is key to long-term success.

10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Build your own toolbox early - Start small with tools like a revolving loan fund. Even modest contributions compound into real leverage over time.
Have product ready before the prospect shows up - Shovel-ready sites win deals. If you're waiting until an RFI arrives, you're already behind.
Sell your labor shed, not just your city limits - Expand your workforce story to include the full commuting region, not just population within city boundaries.
Be honest about fit upfront - Disqualify bad-fit projects early. It saves time, builds credibility, and focuses your effort on winnable deals.
Use speed as a competitive advantage - Quick answers, quick coordination, and quick decisions often beat larger incentive packages.
Coordinate like one team, not multiple agencies - Eliminate friction between city, county, utilities, and partners so companies feel like there's "no wrong door."
Invest in local companies, not just recruitment - Expansions from existing businesses can absorb sites faster and more reliably than outside recruitment.
Treat workforce, housing, and childcare as core infrastructure - These are not side issues. They directly determine whether companies can hire and grow.
Lean into what you actually do well - Don't try to win every project. Focus on industries and company sizes that match your real strengths.
Own the outcome, even when you lose - Some deals fall apart for reasons outside your control. Learn what you can, adjust where possible, and keep moving.

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Special Guest: Tim Hanigan.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Tim Hanigan | LinkedIn
Aberdeen Development Corporation | South Dakota
Properties | Aberdeen Development Corporation
Aberdeen Development Corporation | LinkedIn
Aberdeen Development Corporation | Facebook
Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink — "Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink is my favorite book because the core idea, which taking full responsibility for outcomes, fits perfectly with leadership in a rural community. In smaller towns, there’s no one else to blame and no one else coming to fix things for you. If something isn’t working, you own it and you figure it out."

212: How Incentives Really Influence Site Selection with Taylor Stepp

Dane Carlson — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Taylor Stepp, Founder and President of Strategic Development Partners, about the real role incentives play in economic development deals.

Drawing on experience working with corporations and communities across the country, Taylor explains how incentives influence project internal rate of return, why applicability and customization matter more than flashy packages, and how responsiveness and speed from local governments can win projects even when incentive dollars are smaller.

The conversation also explores how communities can structure clearer processes, communicate timelines, and position themselves to compete more effectively for major investment.

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Special Guest: Taylor Stepp.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Strategic Development Partners
Taylor Stepp, CEcD | LinkedIn
Strategic Development Partners | LinkedIn
How to Spot a Community That’s Ready for Your Investment - Area Development
Midwest becomes hotspot for semiconductor manufacturing and supply industries - Area Development
Heritage Drums — Taylor runs a national drum shop, Heritage Drums, where they rehabilitate and ship drums across the country.

211: How Video is Changing Economic Development Marketing with Lyndsay Wisneski

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Lyndsay Wisneski, Chief Marketing Officer of the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation, about how storytelling and modern marketing strategies can transform economic development. Lyndsay shares how Yuma built a powerful regional brand through industry-focused mini-documentaries, digital advertising campaigns, and a coordinated content strategy that turns a single video project into years of marketing assets. She explains how even small communities can market themselves effectively by highlighting local companies, repurposing content across platforms, and tracking real marketing ROI. The conversation explores why economic development should focus less on static statistics and more on authentic stories that help companies, site selectors, and residents connect emotionally with a place.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Let companies tell your story. Interviews with CEOs and business leaders are more persuasive than marketing copy.
Create industry-focused content that explains why companies in each sector succeed in your region.
Turn one project into many assets: long videos, short clips, photos, reports, and social media content.
Use short video ads to drive viewers to longer storytelling pieces on your website or YouTube.
Track website visitors and identify companies researching your region.
Send periodic industry-specific newsletters highlighting local expansions, infrastructure, and investment.
Use LinkedIn and targeted digital ads to stay visible to site selectors and executives.
Repurpose marketing content across guides, one-pagers, websites, and presentations.
Hire local creative talent who can update or expand your content over time.
Apply for marketing awards to boost credibility and morale inside your organization and community.

Special Guest: Lyndsay Wisneski.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Lyndsay Wisneski | LinkedIn
GYEDC - YouTube
Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation
Yuma Industry Guide
Greater Yuma Economic Development Corporation: Linkedin
Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger — "In this book, Berger breaks down the science behind why some ideas, products, and stories spread widely while others fade into obscurity. Rather than leaving “virality” to chance or big advertising budgets, he identifies six key principles; Social Currency, Triggers, Emotion, Public, Practical Value, and Stories, that help explain why people share what they share and how marketers can intentionally craft content that spreads. What made Contagious particularly influential to me is how it reframes marketing from broadcasting messages to creating content and experiences that people want to talk about and can’t help sharing with others. It’s taught me that effective marketing isn’t just creative, it is rooted in understanding human psychology, what motivates people to share, and how to design campaigns that become part of everyday conversations, not just interruptions."

210: Turning a Military Base into a Manufacturing Engine with Eric Voyles

Dane Carlson — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Eric Voyles, Executive Vice President and Chief Economic Development Officer for TexAmericas Center, about how a former 8,900-acre military installation became one of the most innovative redevelopment authorities in the country. Eric explains how eliminating public review delays, investing millions in environmental cleanup, controlling rail and logistics assets, and focusing relentlessly on speed to occupancy have allowed TexAmericas Center to compete for heavy and light manufacturing projects.

From creative risk-taking with early-stage companies to clearing 250-acre rail-served sites after losing a deal, this conversation is a masterclass in how data, preparation, and governance alignment drive real economic development results.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Make time your primary incentive. If possible, remove unnecessary entitlement layers and compress approval timelines. Speed reduces perceived risk.
Self-certify before paying for certification. Develop internal "qualified site" standards so prospects can complete due diligence faster.
Track inventory in categories. Move-in ready, construction ready, shovel ready, rail served, etc. Clarity accelerates decisions.
Invest after losing. If you lose a project for a specific reason, eliminate that weakness permanently, even if it costs real money.
Treat small buildings as assets. Flexible, modular inventory can win projects creatively, even when you lack a single large structure.
Control key assets when possible. Owning rail, logistics, or utilities strengthens your value proposition and revenue model.
Be willing to take calculated risk on local companies. Early bets on scalable firms can create long-term anchor employers.
Align your board around business realities. Populate governance with people who understand customers, not just politics.
Operate like a private developer. Use CRM systems, outsourcing where efficient, and disciplined deal flow management.
Let data guide strategy. Understand supply and demand curves in your region before pushing incentives or marketing narratives.

Special Guest: Eric Voyles.

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

Links:

209: Building a Cross-Border Economic Engine with Heath Vescovi-Chiordi

Dane Carlson — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Heath Vescovi-Chiordi, Director of Economic Development for Pima County, Arizona, to explore how one of the largest counties in the country balances rural biodiversity, cross-border trade with Mexico, aerospace and optics clusters, semiconductor workforce development, and even controversial data center projects.

Heath shares how a four-and-a-half-person team coordinates across municipalities, tribal nations, academia, and public health to execute a regional strategy that blends quantitative results with qualitative community engagement.

From a $1.2 billion battery manufacturing project to evolving policies on nondisclosure agreements and enhanced due diligence, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at modern county-level economic development in action

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Special Guest: Heath Vescovi-Chiordi.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Heath Vescovi-Chiordi, MPA, AZED Pro | LinkedIn — Heath Vescovi-Chiordi, MPA, AZED Pro
Economic Development | Pima County, AZ

208: What Rural Economic Development in Nebraska Really Looks Like in 2026 with Lisa Hurley

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Lisa Hurley, Executive Director of the York County Development Corporation in Nebraska, to talk about what modern rural economic development actually looks like on the ground.

Lisa shares how York County leverages its logistics position, diversified employers, and growing civic pride while navigating workforce shortages, childcare capacity, housing pressure, and community resistance to change. They discuss talent attraction campaigns, podcasting as an economic development tool, and why rural EDOs must now think far beyond traditional business recruitment.

The conversation also explores leadership, burnout, mentoring the next generation of economic developers, and how Lisa is using AI to save time while staying human where it matters most.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Treat childcare capacity as core economic infrastructure, not a side issue
Invest in talent marketing even when results are hard to attribute directly
Use layered messaging across state, local, and employer campaigns
Build trust by proactively sharing progress and visuals with the community
Accept that some resistance to change cannot be resolved, only managed
Partner aggressively to avoid owning every initiative yourself
Use podcasts and storytelling to humanize your community and organization
Leverage AI for HR, editing, and admin work to protect business-facing time
Mentor younger economic developers to reduce burnout and build continuity
Remember that stopping a bad project can be a win, not a failure

Special Guest: Lisa Hurley.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

207: Speed to Market as an Incentive with Ellie Reynolds

Dane Carlson — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Ellie Reynolds, President and CEO of the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation, to unpack how one of Colorado’s fastest-growing counties balances quality of life, infrastructure investment, regulatory realities, and speed-to-market.

Ellie shares how Douglas County positions itself along the Front Range, why shovel-ready infrastructure matters more than incentives alone, how cutting red tape became a competitive strategy, and what economic developers can do locally when state-level constraints get in the way.

The conversation also dives into AI as a staff multiplier, coalition-building for regulatory reform, and why economic development is ultimately about reducing risk, not forcing growth.

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Special Guest: Ellie Reynolds.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

206: The Fifth Season of Economic Development with Juliet Abdel

Dane Carlson — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Juliet Abdel, President and CEO of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, to talk about building a regionally focused, globally minded economic development organization.

Drawing on Cedar Rapids' "fifth season" advantage (time, accessibility, and quality of life) Juliet shares how the region leverages industry clusters, international relationships, and leadership discipline to compete.

The conversation blends practical economic development strategy with candid insights on burnout, boundaries, and leading people well in a demanding field.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Treat quality of life as a competitive asset, not a marketing afterthought.
Focus attraction efforts on industry clusters that naturally complement what already exists locally.
International business development does not require a global city, only consistent relationship-building.
Cast a clear vision so teams understand the "why," not just the tasks.
Protect staff health by modeling boundaries, especially around after-hours communication.
Build attraction strategies around regional strengths, not generic wish lists.
Encourage team members to say no when capacity or clarity is missing.
Leverage peer networks aggressively. Most good ideas already exist somewhere else.
Recognize burnout as an organizational risk, not a personal weakness.
Remember that economic development works best when personal well-being and professional performance reinforce each other.

Special Guest: Juliet Abdel.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

205: No Product, No Project in Central Texas with Mike Kamerlander

Dane Carlson — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Mike Kamerlander, President and CEO of the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership, to discuss what economic development looks like inside one of the fastest-growing regions in Texas.

Drawing from HCEDP’s recent Economic Outlook Event, the conversation explores why Central Texas continues to attract companies, how cities, counties, and private businesses are investing through uncertainty, and what shifting project timelines signal for 2026. Mike also shares lessons from leading a two-county, ten-city partnership, why “no product, no project” still holds true, and how speed, predictability, and engagement quietly determine which regions win.

FYI, "No Product, No Project" is a registered trademark of Garner Economics LLC.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Product readiness matters more than marketing language.
Speed and predictability often outweigh incentive packages.
Regional collaboration expands capacity without diluting local wins.
Growth planning must stay ahead of infrastructure demand.
Economic outlook events are tools for alignment, not just forecasting.
Accurate, current site information prevents deal-killing surprises.
Cities and counties should be treated as the primary customer.
Engagement across private industry strengthens long-term outcomes.
Development processes should be reviewed continuously, not periodically.
Capital on the sidelines eventually moves. Be ready when it does.

Special Guest: Mike Kamerlander.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

204: From Company Town to Community Vision with Jessica Huble

Dane Carlson — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Jessica Huble, Assistant Director of Redevelopment for the City of Sugar Land, Texas, to explore how a landlocked, master-planned suburb is rethinking growth, housing, and economic sustainability. The conversation dives into Sugar Land’s unique history as a company town built around Imperial Sugar, the creation of a dedicated Department of Redevelopment, and why single-family housing alone cannot support a city’s long-term finances.

Jessica explains how community engagement, honest trade-off conversations, flexible planning, and city-led redevelopment of the historic Imperial site are shaping Sugar Land’s next chapter, offering lessons for any community facing limited land, changing markets, and rising expectations.

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10 actionable takeaways for economic developers

If your city is landlocked, every acre decision is a long-term financial decision
Single-family housing alone will not sustain municipal services over time
Create space for redevelopment before crisis forces it
Be honest with residents about trade-offs, not just benefits
Sales tax strategy matters just as much as property tax in many states
Avoid being overly prescriptive in RFQs and redevelopment plans
Lead with outcomes and identity, not tenant wish lists
Community visioning works best when residents are asked real questions
Historic assets should inform the future, not freeze it
Cities that fail to adapt risk losing relevance, not just revenue

Special Guest: Jessica Huble.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

203: Transit as Economic Development Strategy with Joya Stetson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Joya Stetson, Community Development Director at the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), about how transit directly shapes workforce access, development costs, and long-term community competitiveness.

Joya unpacks “first mile/last mile” barriers and how tools like microtransit and service tweaks can turn missed connections into real outcomes, including route changes that unlocked student internships and boosted ridership.

They dig into suburban realities like coverage vs. ridership, post-COVID recovery, and why transit belongs inside RFP workforce narratives, land-use planning, and even parking requirement conversations.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Get your transit provider “at the table” early for major projects, not after the announcement, so service planning can match real hiring needs.
Treat “workforce access” as more than unemployment rates: explicitly describe how transit expands the labor pool and reduces absenteeism and turnover risk.
Audit first-mile/last-mile gaps for key job centers, campuses, and training sites; don’t assume a route nearby means people can actually reach it.
Use microtransit strategically to bridge gaps, but pair it with fixed routes when predictable arrival times matter (classes, shifts, internships).
Build a “route change wins” pipeline: channel feedback from chambers, employers, schools, and workforce boards into concrete service-change proposals.
Include transit in your site selection/RFP package (especially the workforce section): routes, frequency, last-mile options, and how employers can engage.
Coordinate transit with land-use planning and TOD goals so comp plans and transit plans evolve together instead of living on shelves.
Use transit to reduce development friction: make the case for lower parking requirements where transit access supports it.
Map housing-to-transit-to-jobs (especially affordable housing) to show actual accessibility and to target investments or service pilots.
Frame transit as competitiveness and sustainability: companies care about low-carbon performance, and mobility options are part of that story.

Special Guest: Joya Stetson.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

202: How Community Colleges Power Statewide Economic Development with John Loyack

Dane Carlson — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with John Loyack of the North Carolina Community College System to unpack what “workforce development” looks like when you’re the person who gets the call the day after the ribbon cutting asking where the next 500–5,000 workers will come from—and how North Carolina answers that question through four major tools: NC Edge customized training, ApprenticeshipNC, the Bio Network (now stretching from life sciences into food/beverage and natural products), and a small business center network embedded across 58 community colleges, all while pushing for tighter collaboration so employers experience one connected system instead of disconnected silos.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Treat workforce development as core infrastructure, not a support function.
Engage community colleges early, not after a project announcement.
Promote customized training programs aggressively to prospects and existing employers.
Use pre-hire assessments to reduce employer risk on major projects.
Encourage employers, even competitors, to collaborate on shared talent needs.
Leverage apprenticeship programs beyond manufacturing into healthcare, construction, and trades.
Think regionally, not jurisdiction by jurisdiction, when building talent pipelines.
Repurpose successful training models across industries where skills overlap.
Break down silos between workforce, small business, and economic development teams.
Communicate these resources constantly because most businesses do not know they exist.

Special Guest: John Loyack.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

201: Why Electricity Decides Everything Now in Economic Development with Timothy Comerford

Dane Carlson — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Timothy Comerford of Biggins Lacey & Shapiro about the rapidly shifting reality of power availability in site selection.

Tim explains how explosive demand from data centers and industrial users is overwhelming electric utilities, reshaping incentive policy, and lengthening timelines for securing capacity. He breaks down the biggest misconceptions around power lead times, why transmission is often the bottleneck, how utilities are adapting with costly engineering studies and take-or-pay requirements, and what steps EDOs must take to credibly position their sites.

This is a masterclass on the new electricity-driven geography of economic development.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Build strong, direct relationships with utility contacts who will actually talk to prospects.
Understand that real timelines for securing large loads run in years, not months.
Work with utilities to pre-identify transmission routes and right-of-way feasibility.
Gather realistic load estimates from prospects instead of just taking their engineer's peak numbers.
Know whether your sites already sit near substations with real remaining capacity.
Incorporate redundancy needs early, since 100 percent backup can double infrastructure requirements.
Prepare for developers who request huge speculative loads and learn how to differentiate serious projects.
Recognize that incentives tied to data centers may face political pressure due to ratepayer impacts.
Push utilities and state partners to invest in long-range planning that anticipates industrial and data center growth.
Educate local stakeholders that modern site readiness now includes power readiness as a top priority.

Special Guest: Timothy Comeford.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

200: How Colorado Springs Competes Globally with Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer

Dane Carlson — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC, about how Colorado Springs is uniting its region to compete globally, building on its deep aerospace, defense, and cybersecurity assets, and expanding advanced manufacturing powered by a steady military-to-civilian talent pipeline.

She explains the origin of the Colorado Aerospace and Defense Economic Council, the importance of advocacy for small and mid-sized contractors, how site selection really plays out in a mountain market, and why economic development still matters most at the level of individual opportunity.

From cluster strategy to workforce realities to the joy of cutting a ribbon on a transformational project, Johnna offers insight from a 30-year career building thriving communities.

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Special Guest: Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

199: How Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Can Transform Local Economies with Martin Vanags

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with economic development veteran and consultant Marty Vanags about Circles of Seven, a peer-based mentoring program designed to strengthen post-startup small businesses who often fall through the cracks of traditional support systems.

Marty explains how C7 groups work, why small businesses learn best from each other, and how these circles create long-lasting bonds that improve BRE, build confidence, and ultimately make communities more attractive to prospects. He also touches on Next Wave Leadership, the importance of in-person connection, and why economic developers should spend more time nurturing the businesses they already have.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Target the "liminal stage" -- businesses past the startup phase but not yet established need the most support and often have the fewest resources.
Build peer-to-peer programs, not just classes -- small businesses learn better from each other than from lectures.
Recruit strong facilitators, not "experts" -- a good mentor is a steady guide, not a guru.
Create predictable monthly prompts (articles, videos, questions) to spark meaningful discussion.
Require at least 30 minutes on the main topic so participants get what they came for.
Train facilitators in group dynamics, not business theory -- their job is to manage conversation, not teach.
Use C7-style programs as BRE tools -- they put you in front of businesses you rarely interact with.
Remember cash flow and time are always the biggest pain points for small businesses.
Encourage in-person interaction -- especially post-COVID, live meetings build deeper relationships and accountability.
Measure success by longevity -- if your groups keep meeting years later, your ecosystem is working.

Special Guest: Martin Vanags.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

198: Dane With Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:15:00 -0600

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.

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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.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

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

Dane Carlson — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:15:00 -0600

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.

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Special Guest: Candi Clouse.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

196: AI and the Future of Economic Development with Dane Carlson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0500

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.

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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.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

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

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0500

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.

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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.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

194: Tackling Systemic Vacancy and Building Equity with Kat Guillaume-Delemar

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500

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.

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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.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

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

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0500

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.

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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.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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192: How North Carolina Recruits on the World Stage with Anders Victor

Dane Carlson — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:15:00 -0500

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

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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.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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

Dane Carlson — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0500

(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.

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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.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

190: New Jersey’s Bold Playbook with Kathleen Coviello

Dane Carlson — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Kathleen Coviello, Chief Economic Transformation Officer at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, to explore how New Jersey is reshaping its economic future.

Kathleen discusses the state’s targeted approach to building industries where it has a competitive edge—from film and digital media to life sciences, clean energy, and AI. She shares insights into innovative initiatives like film-ready certified towns, programs that turn company losses into cash, and the ambitious Evergreen Fund designed to attract venture capital and corporate engagement.

Along the way, Kathleen highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing New Jersey, including housing affordability and talent retention, while also offering a candid look at her own journey from venture banking to two decades in public service.

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Special Guest: Kathleen Coviello.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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189: How North Dakota Gets Deals Done with Rich Garman

Dane Carlson — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Rich Garman, Director of Economic Development and Finance at the North Dakota Department of Commerce, to explore how North Dakota’s unique scale and culture enable fast, collaborative economic development. Rich highlights the benefits of a close-knit network where “everybody knows everybody,” the ability to push projects forward at breakneck speed, and the importance of trust and reputation in such a small state. Listeners will come away with insights into what makes North Dakota’s approach distinctive and how lessons from the state’s nimbleness can inspire economic developers everywhere.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Build tight relationships across agencies to speed project approvals.
Use small-scale networks to your advantage: connect decision-makers quickly.
Develop a reputation for trustworthiness--bad actors get noticed fast.
Create systems where a single text or call can move a project forward.
Prioritize collaboration over silos; success requires every stakeholder.
Emphasize speed to prospective investors--it's a competitive advantage.
Highlight cultural strengths (community-mindedness, shared goals) in pitches.
Streamline processes wherever possible; eliminate "waiting on someone's desk."
Recognize the risk of reputation spread--protect your credibility at all costs.
Translate small-state agility lessons into big-state or regional contexts.

Special Guest: Rich Garman.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

188: Site Selectors Often Experience Your City First as Visitors with Tulsa's Renee McKenney

Dane Carlson — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Renee McKenney, Senior Vice President of Tourism for the Tulsa Regional Chamber and President of Tulsa Regional Tourism. Renee shares how Tulsa has leveraged its unique history, Route 66 heritage, and creative culture to attract visitors, residents, and businesses. From hosting major sporting events and revitalizing Black Wall Street to promoting film, music, and culinary scenes, Tulsa is redefining itself as a vibrant destination. Renee also explains how integrating tourism with economic development under the chamber umbrella creates a powerful synergy that fuels placemaking, business attraction, and civic pride

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Integrate tourism and economic development--site selectors often experience your city first as visitors.
Identify and elevate authentic community assets (history, culture, sports, etc.).
Lean into storytelling; narratives like Route 66 or Black Wall Street resonate nationally.
Invest in placemaking that surprises and delights both locals and visitors.
Use large-scale events (sports, festivals, shows) as business attraction opportunities.
Partner with creative industries (film, music, arts) to build brand identity.
Capitalize on civic pride to mobilize communities around unique initiatives.
Focus on accessibility and vibe because livability drives both talent and business attraction.
Treat tourism as "importing money and exporting experiences."
Always be ready for your "prime time": community investments build toward big moments like centennials, championships, or global events.

Special Guest: Renee McKenney.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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187: Changing Perceptions of Baltimore with Lakey Boyd

Dane Carlson — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Lakey Boyd, Chief Economic Officer at the Greater Baltimore Committee, to explore the unique strengths and opportunities of the Baltimore region. From its historical assets and waterfront livability to the challenges of shifting national perceptions, Lakey shares insights on regional collaboration, economic drivers, and how Greater Baltimore is positioning itself for future growth.

(Sorry about my audio quality. Don't worry: Lakey's is great.)

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Always frame your community as part of a region — economies rarely stop at city borders.
Address negative perceptions head-on with facts, data, and compelling stories.
Highlight unique local assets (e.g., universities, hospitals, waterfronts) as differentiators.
Showcase livability alongside business opportunities to attract both companies and talent.
Balance historical identity with forward-looking strategies.
Leverage anchor institutions like universities and hospitals to drive innovation and growth.
Collaborate across counties and municipalities to present a united economic front.
Market regional resilience — especially in industries that thrive locally.
Invest in workforce pipelines that connect local talent with growing industries.
Don’t let outsiders define your community’s brand — own your narrative.

Special Guest: Lakey Boyd.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

186: The Power of Collaboration in Economic Development with Stacie LoVan of the Greater Des Moines Partnership

Dane Carlson — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Stacie LoVan, Senior Vice President of Economic Development at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, about the transformative power of collaboration in economic development. Stacie shares how Greater Des Moines has built a culture of regional cooperation, implemented workforce and quality-of-life initiatives, and set bold goals for 2025. Their conversation highlights best practices that other communities can adopt, from aligning diverse stakeholders to creating momentum through shared vision. Whether you’re a veteran practitioner or new to the field, this episode offers actionable strategies for strengthening your own community through collaboration.

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10 Actionable Takeaways For Economic Developers

Prioritize collaboration over competition: regional growth accelerates when communities work together instead of against one another.
Define a clear, shared vision: goals like Greater Des Moines' 2025 plan keep stakeholders aligned and motivated.
Leverage workforce initiatives as anchors: workforce preparedness is often the deciding factor for business attraction and retention.
Balance quality-of-life improvements with economic strategies: housing, amenities, and placemaking are as critical as incentives.
Build a culture of trust among partners: successful collaboration depends on consistent communication and reliability.
Celebrate small wins: incremental progress builds credibility and keeps stakeholders engaged in long-term efforts.
Engage the private sector early: businesses can provide funding, advocacy, and momentum for regional initiatives.
Invest in regional branding: a unified message makes a region more competitive nationally and globally.
Be adaptable to change: collaboration requires flexibility when balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders.
Apply DSM's model to your community: while every region is unique, the principles of shared vision, trust, and collaboration can be replicated anywhere.

Special Guest: Stacie Lovan.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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185: How Local Governments Can Power Startups with John Lynn

Dane Carlson — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with John Lynn, co-founder and managing partner of Quay Acceleration, to explore how public-sector-backed accelerators are reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape. They discuss the shift from private, investor-focused models to community-centered programs funded by economic development organizations, the unique benefits these accelerators provide to entrepreneurs, and how communities can measure success beyond ROI. John shares real-world examples, including a retail storefront accelerator in Manhattan, insights into evolving capital markets, and his vision for the future of entrepreneurship in an ever-changing economy.

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Ten actionable takeaways for economic developers

Define success metrics for accelerators that align with community priorities, not just investor ROI.
Focus on retention of high-revenue companies as a key measure of long-term impact.
Pair accelerator participants with experienced mentors from relevant industries.
Use accelerators to address specific local economic challenges, such as high retail vacancy rates.
Integrate accelerators into broader multi-tiered economic development strategies.
Ensure program content is field-informed and reflects the latest industry practices.
Leverage public visibility to attract community engagement and media coverage.
Conduct feasibility studies before launching to ensure sustainability and fit.
Expand success metrics to include job creation, revenue generation, and brand recognition.
Build relationships with global networks to bring investment and expertise into local programs.

Special Guest: John Lynn.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

184: The Colorblind Tulip Farmer: Revolutionizing Rural Economic Development with Andrew Miller

Dane Carlson — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson interviews Andrew Miller, a multi-faceted leader who serves as CEO of both the United Way of Skagit County and Tulip Valley Farms, as well as commissioner at Skagit PUD. Miller shares his unique journey from working at major tech companies like Amazon to returning home to Skagit County as an economic developer, only to eventually become the entrepreneur he had been encouraging others to be. The conversation explores the challenges economic developers face when advocating for entrepreneurship and innovation, the resistance to change in established systems, and Miller's decision to "walk the walk" by purchasing a farm business when others wouldn't take the leap.

Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Look for gaps in existing industries where innovation can create new business models (like adding U-pick to traditional tulip festivals)
Study successful elements from adjacent industries and adapt them to your community's assets
Create bridges between urban and rural communities through experiential tourism
Focus on finding and selling what's remarkable about your community to people willing to pay for it
Combine unexpected elements (like Scottish Highland cows with tulips) to create unique attractions
Make agriculture and rural life accessible to urban neighbors who lack farming connections
Consider compound risks when developing agritourism ventures (weather for growing AND weather for visitors)
Use personal availability and storytelling to create authentic connections with visitors
Help passionate people in your community turn their interests into viable businesses
Remember that credentials matter less than passion and willingness to learn in entrepreneurship

Special Guest: Andrew Miller.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

183: Small-Scale Manufacturing as Community Development Strategy with Ilana Preuss

Dane Carlson — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson welcomes back Ilana Preuss, founder and CEO of Recast City, for a follow-up conversation four years after her initial appearance on the show. Preuss shares insights on how economic development has evolved and discusses her methodology for helping communities identify and support small-scale manufacturing businesses. The conversation explores how economic developers can create meaningful change with relatively modest investments by focusing on local assets, engaging directly with community members and business owners, and implementing targeted strategies that respond to actual community needs rather than pursuing expensive business recruitment projects.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Engage directly with small-scale manufacturing business owners to understand their specific needs and challenges before creating programs.
Focus on modest, targeted investments ($10K-$20K) rather than expensive business recruitment projects that may not address community needs.
Identify and leverage existing local assets and manufacturing businesses already present in your community.
Meet with property owners to understand real estate availability and constraints for small manufacturing businesses.
Analyze community feedback to prioritize actions that will create the biggest impact based on local goals and beneficiaries.
Create short-term wins that build momentum toward longer-term, more complex development projects.
Thread the line between community assets, needs, and goals to develop effective priority strategies.
Focus on de-risking economic development investments by ensuring projects respond to actual community needs.
Build "sticky" communities by creating places where interesting commercial activity takes place and people want to be.
Use systematic methods to gather information from stakeholders and translate that into actionable development strategies.

Special Guest: Ilana Preuss.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

182: Engineering Economic Success: A Systems Approach to Development with Jason El Koubi

Dane Carlson — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Jason El Koubi, President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, to explore the intersection of analytical thinking and economic development leadership.

Jason discusses how his engineering background shapes his systems-thinking approach to economic development, the value of hiring talent from competitive states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Ohio, and the importance of continuous learning in the profession.

He emphasizes the critical role of passion, ethics, and effective communication in economic development work, while sharing insights from his recent 360-degree evaluation and his commitment to ensuring positive economic growth across all regions of Virginia.

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Special Guest: Jason El Koubi.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

181: Beyond the Strip: Clark County's Economic Transformation with Shani Coleman

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson speaks with Shani Coleman, Director of Community and Economic Development for Clark County, Nevada, about the economic transformation happening beyond the famous Las Vegas Strip.

Coleman shares insights into how professional sports teams, including the Raiders, Golden Knights, and upcoming MLB team, are driving a new sports innovation economy.

She discusses the county's five-year-old economic development department, their focus on small business support, the challenges of federal land ownership, and how California's regulatory environment is driving business migration to Nevada.

The conversation covers everything from hotel rooms of the future at Harry Reid Tech Park to plans for advanced manufacturing in areas near the proposed second airport.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Lean into your existing assets - Don't shy away from what makes your community unique; figure out how to leverage those assets for economic development advantage.
Build comprehensive small business support programs - Create virtual platforms and technical assistance programs that help small businesses understand public contracting opportunities and build resilience.
Develop specialized innovation districts - Designate physical locations with boots-on-the-ground support to create environments where entrepreneurs and innovative businesses can thrive.
Create business-friendly digital tools - Develop project estimators and online resources that help businesses understand licensing, permitting, and operational costs upfront.
Focus on business retention and expansion - Don't just recruit new businesses; actively support existing businesses in growing and hiring more employees.
Build venture capital ecosystems - Work with organizations that support both entrepreneurs seeking funding and individuals wanting to become venture capitalists.
Capitalize on proximity advantages - Use geographic location and transportation access as selling points for logistics and distribution opportunities.
Plan for future land development - Engage in master planning activities even when land ownership is complicated to be ready when opportunities arise.
Diversify beyond traditional industries - Look for ways emerging sectors (like sports innovation) can create new economic opportunities in your community.
Network strategically and tell your story - Use podcasts, conferences, and digital platforms to communicate your community's business opportunities to site selectors and potential investors.

Special Guest: Shani Coleman.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

180: Red Tape, Real Stories, and Economic Revival with Kevin Crowder

Dane Carlson — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Kevin Crowder, author of "Red Tape Empire" and publisher of Street Economics Daily, to explore the intersection of fiction and reality in economic development.

Crowder shares the inspiration behind his novel, which tells the story of a woman returning to revitalize her family business while battling bureaucratic obstacles, a narrative rooted in his real experiences working in Miami Beach development.

The conversation delves into pivotal moments like the 1986 Calvin Klein campaign that transformed South Beach from European catalog shoots to a celebrity fashion destination, illustrating how strategic exposure can unlock a city's hidden potential.

Crowder emphasizes the ongoing challenges economic developers face, from navigating red tape to managing the tension between preserving the status quo and embracing transformative change.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Identify your community's hidden assets that could attract new audiences if properly exposed
Use storytelling and fiction to process and share complex development experiences in relatable ways
Look for strategic partnerships with creative industries (fashion, film, media) to showcase your location
Document and learn from pivotal moments that transformed other communities for replication strategies
Develop the political will and stakeholder buy-in necessary to move beyond status quo thinking
Anticipate and plan for resistance from established interests when proposing transformative changes
Focus on "exposure" opportunities that can shift perceptions and attract new investment
Build relationships with entrepreneurs who can see potential where others see problems
Create accessible content (newsletters, social media) to share development insights with broader audiences
Recognize that successful economic development requires both strategic vision and the force of will to execute despite obstacles

Special Guest: Kevin Crowder.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

179: Why PR Beats Advertising in Economic Development Every Time with April Mason

Dane Carlson — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with April Mason, president and founder of Violet PR, a boutique public relations agency specializing in economic development. April explains the difference between earned and paid media, sharing how editorial coverage can be worth five to seven times more valuable than advertising because of its inherent credibility.

The conversation covers newsjacking techniques, where PR professionals quickly tie current news events to their clients' stories, and explores how economic development PR differs from consumer-focused campaigns by focusing on business trends, tax incentives, and workforce development rather than lifestyle content.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Monitor news headlines daily and hold weekly team meetings to identify PR opportunities
Focus on earning editorial coverage rather than paying for advertisements for 5-7x better credibility
Develop a newsjacking strategy to quickly tie breaking news to your organization's strengths
Pitch thought leadership articles to trade publications in your industry
Create redundant systems or unique selling points that can become newsworthy angles
Build relationships with journalists who cover economic development and business topics
Develop spokespeople who can provide expert commentary on industry trends
Differentiate your PR approach from consumer marketing by focusing on business fundamentals
Leverage client successes and unique infrastructure as story angles
Maintain a proactive media relations strategy rather than waiting for news to happen

Special Guest: April Mason.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

178: Reinventing Shop Local Initiatives with Sophia Zheng

Dane Carlson — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Sophia Zheng, Founder and CEO of Bludot Technologies, a startup initially incubated through a unique collaboration with a city’s economic development department.

Sophia explains how Bludot’s innovative platform helps more than 150 communities across the U.S. and Canada retain and expand local businesses through advanced data analytics and digital incentives. She dives into the successful Open Rewards program, a community-wide shop-local initiative, and explores how technologies like AI could further enhance business retention and expansion strategies. Sophia also highlights Bludot’s achievements, including recognition in Govtech 100 and AWS GovtechStart, as well as USDA NIFA grants for supporting rural economic development.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Consider launching digital reward programs to incentivize local spending.
Centralize your local business data for effective business retention strategies.
Leverage consumer data to tailor shop-local campaigns to specific areas or seasons.
Minimize barriers for businesses to participate in city-sponsored programs.
Regularly evaluate and track consumer behaviors to measure the impact of your initiatives.
Use qualitative consumer feedback to validate program effectiveness.
Collaborate with local chambers, business districts, and main streets for increased program reach.
Explore targeted incentives to revitalize specific economic zones.
Integrate technology-driven solutions to streamline business support and retention processes.
Continuously innovate engagement tactics to keep consumers excited and actively shopping locally.

Special Guest: Sophia Zheng.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

177: Expediting the RFI Process, with Dane Carlson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show (a replay from EDO Breakthrough Podcast episode #10), Sandy Dubay interviews Dane Carlson about his entrepreneurial journey in economic development. Dane shares the deeply personal story behind starting his podcast during COVID while his son underwent cancer treatment, his initial nervousness about hearing his own voice, and his strategy of cold-contacting newly certified economic developers for guests. The conversation explores the challenges economic developers face with changing leadership and boards, before diving into Dane's innovative solution: Sitehunt, an AI-powered platform that transforms how economic developers respond to RFIs by automatically matching community assets with project requirements and generating detailed responses in minutes rather than days.

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To reach Franklin for his podcast editing services, email franklin.carlson@icloud.com.

Special Guest: Sandy Dubay.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Sitehunt
EDO Breakthrough E10 – Expediting the RFI Process, with Dane Carlson — Expediting the RFI Process, with Dane Carlson
Dane Carlson | LinkedIn

176: From Rust Belt to Tech Hub: Buffalo's 25-Year Transformation with Tom Kucharski

Dane Carlson — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Tom Kucharski, President and CEO of Invest Buffalo Niagara, who has led the organization's transformation efforts for 25 years. Kucharski shares how Buffalo evolved from being the 8th largest U.S. city in 1960 to experiencing devastating industrial decline, and then orchestrating a remarkable comeback that includes the first population growth in decades.

He discusses the region's competitive advantages including clean hydroelectric power from Niagara Falls, the 43 North business plan competition (the largest in the country with $1 million prizes), and securing the nation's only semiconductor tech hub designation. The conversation covers Buffalo's evolution into a hub for manufacturing, life sciences, and technology, while addressing new challenges like housing shortages that come with rapid growth and success.

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Special Guest: Tom Kucharski.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

175: Transforming Second-Tier Markets into Economic Powerhouses with Barry Broome

Dane Carlson — Mon, 26 May 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Barry Broome, President and CEO of the Greater Sacramento Economic Council.

Dane and Barry explore Sacramento's remarkable economic transformation. Barry highlights how Sacramento has leveraged its strategic location 72 miles east of San Francisco to become one of America's premier second-tier markets, emerging as a semiconductor hub while diversifying into clean tech and agricultural research sectors.

Throughout the conversation, Barry shares his data-driven approach to economic development, his passion for working with underdog cities, and the challenges he overcame to build community trust and create a thriving economic ecosystem in California's capital region.

Barry shares insights on economic development, leadership, and the importance of data-driven decisions in driving regional growth.

The episode also covers his personal background, emphasizing Barry's passion for economic development in underdog cities and his experiences in navigating and overcoming initial challenges to build a thriving community.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:20 Discovering Sacramento
02:40 Sacramento's Economic Growth
04:40 Semiconductor Hub Vision
09:44 Infrastructure and Utilities
11:41 Target Sectors Beyond Semiconductors
14:08 Barry Broome's Journey
21:16 Challenges and Achievements
25:20 Building a Strong Board
29:05 Barry's Background and Philosophy
34:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Leverage your geographic proximity to major economic centers; Sacramento's 72-mile distance from San Francisco became a strategic advantage rather than a limitation.
Diversify your economic base beyond traditional anchors; Sacramento moved beyond government dependence to semiconductors, clean tech, and agricultural research.
Position your community as a second-tier market alternative to expensive primary markets, offering similar talent and infrastructure at better cost basis.
Use data-driven decision making to guide your economic development strategy and demonstrate measurable results to stakeholders.
Build strong board governance early; invest time in assembling committed leaders who can provide stability and strategic direction.
Target emerging sectors where your region has natural advantages; Sacramento capitalized on its research universities and proximity to Silicon Valley for semiconductor development.
Develop compelling narratives around your community's diversity and quality of life as competitive advantages for business attraction.
Address infrastructure and utilities proactively as foundational elements for sector-specific development strategies.
Embrace your role as an "underdog city champion"; sometimes the most rewarding opportunities are in communities others overlook.
Focus on long-term relationship building and community trust, understanding that transformational economic development takes years to achieve and sustain.

Special Guest: Barry Broome.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

174: Building a Regional Brand: Kansas City's Marketing Success with Jonathan Knecht

Dane Carlson — Mon, 19 May 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson interviews Jonathan Knecht, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Creative Services at the Kansas City Area Development Council, who reveals how his team markets the greater Kansas City region to attract business investment and talent. Jonathan, a self-described "refugee from advertising" who's been with the organization for 21 years, discusses their collaborative approach to regional branding centered around the iconic KC Heart logo, their focus on key industry sectors like digital health and sports architecture, and how Kansas City's central location, affordability, and quality of life create competitive advantages. He also shares insights on building consensus across state lines and how their in-house creative agency supports economic development efforts throughout the region.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Consider adopting organically popular community symbols rather than creating new brands from scratch to ensure authenticity and community buy-in.
Build collaborative relationships across political boundaries to present a unified front when pursuing major projects and investments.
Leverage your region's unique industry clusters (like KC's sports architecture) to create compelling specialization stories for targeted marketing.
Create an in-house creative agency to support marketing needs across your region, especially for partners with limited budgets.
Develop talent attraction initiatives like KC's "Team KC" that connect employers and equip them with shared marketing resources.
Create specialized content for different audiences, such as belonging guides for various cultural communities, to support talent recruitment efforts.
Focus on tracking meaningful metrics tied to actual business attraction and expansion results rather than just marketing activities.
Identify and promote quality of life advantages such as central location, cost of living, and cultural amenities as competitive differentiators.
Establish sector-specific initiatives (like KC's Digital Health and Animal Health Corridor) to target industries where your region has competitive advantages.
End counter-productive incentive competitions between neighboring communities to better focus resources on attracting new businesses to the region.

Special Guest: Jonathan Knecht.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

173: From Possibilities to Reality: How to Save Your Small Town with Deb Brown

Dane Carlson — Mon, 12 May 2025 07:30:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson speaks with Deb Brown, co-founder of Save Your Town and author of "From Possibilities to Reality: How to Save Your Small Town." They discuss Brown's workbook-style approach to small town economic development, sharing practical examples of community revitalization, including movie theater revitalization as an economic driver. Brown offers insights on addressing resistance to change by exploring what people truly valued about their towns in the past, and provides actionable strategies for community members who want to make a difference in their small towns.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Implement the "idea friendly method" to bypass traditional committee bureaucracy and mobilize community-driven economic development projects.
Organize "Tour of Empty Buildings" events to showcase vacant commercial spaces and connect potential business owners with available properties.
Focus on attracting and supporting local businesses to expand into empty downtown spaces rather than solely pursuing large outside employers.
Create accessible maps and resources that showcase available commercial properties to potential investors and entrepreneurs.
Engage residents outside the "usual suspects" (city officials, chamber members) by hosting informal idea-gathering sessions at local coffee shops or breweries.
When communities resist change, dig into what they specifically valued about the past to identify the core needs that modern solutions can address.
Develop sustainable business models for community assets (like movie theaters) that create real employment rather than relying exclusively on volunteers.
Establish clear pathways from idea generation to implementation that don't require formal committee formation or extensive bureaucratic processes.
Prioritize filling downtown vacancies with businesses that serve current community needs while preserving historical character.
Leverage success stories from similar small towns as proof-of-concept examples when pitching new development ideas to stakeholders and building owners.

Special Guest: Deb Brown.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

172: Pennsylvania's First Economic Strategy in 20 Years with Aaron Pitts

Dane Carlson — Mon, 05 May 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson speaks with Aaron Pitts, Chief Commercial Officer for Business PA, who shares how Pennsylvania is revitalizing its economic development approach under Governor Shapiro's administration.

Aaron explains the creation of Business PA, a dedicated unit within the Department of Community and Economic Development focused exclusively on building and maintaining business relationships. He details Pennsylvania's strategic advantages as a founding state with major cities, rural areas, and world-class educational institutions like UPenn and Carnegie Mellon, while highlighting their focus on five key sectors: life sciences, manufacturing, energy, AI/tech, and business services.

Listeners learn about Pennsylvania's impressive $500 million investment in site development, streamlined permitting processes that reduced business license waits from eight weeks to two days, and how Pittsburgh has emerged as a global AI leader with companies like Google, Nvidia, and Duolingo.

Aaron also shares insights from his previous experience helping create JobsOhio and explains why leaving corporate America for economic development has been so personally fulfilling.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Create dedicated units focused solely on business relationships within your economic development organization to ensure businesses receive specialized attention.
Invest significantly in site readiness programs with dedicated funding to create shovel-ready locations that can immediately accommodate business relocations.
Implement a concierge service for permitting to help businesses navigate regulatory processes more efficiently and combat negative perceptions about permitting complexity.
Identify and focus on 4-5 key sectors where your region has competitive advantages rather than trying to be everything to everyone.
Build regional partnerships with clear roles and responsibilities for business retention, expansion and attraction activities to present a unified front to prospective companies.
Bring corporate experience into economic development leadership to better understand and speak the language of business executives.
Develop a strategy that balances care for incumbent businesses while positioning your region to attract cutting-edge industries.
Create a disciplined financial model to evaluate incentive offers that ensures both the business and the region benefit from each deal.
Leverage educational institutions as key partners in workforce development and innovation to create distinct advantages in specific sectors.
Foster an attitudinal shift within economic development organizations from reactive to proactive engagement with businesses to demonstrate that you genuinely care about their success.

Special Guest: Aaron Pitts.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

171: Leading Virginia's Largest Economy with Victor Hoskins

Dane Carlson — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Victor Hoskins, President and CEO of Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, who oversees Virginia's largest economy and leads a team that has secured approximately $3 billion in capital investment. Victor shares insights from his unique career spanning both public and private sectors, including his instrumental role in securing Amazon HQ2 during his time at Arlington Economic Development. With candid reflections on his education at MIT, experience in private equity, and passion for creating economic opportunity, Victor reveals his philosophy that has helped companies create over 38,000 jobs in Fairfax County – a place he describes as "where companies come to dent the universe."

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Special Guest: Victor Hoskins.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

170: The Art of Downtown Transformation in Birmingham with David Fleming

Dane Carlson — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson speaks with David Fleming, president and CEO of Rev Birmingham, about transforming Birmingham from an industrial city into a thriving service economy centered around healthcare and education. Fleming discusses how his organization fosters downtown vibrancy by preserving historic character, supporting local businesses that "make the city cool," ensuring economic and racial diversity, and collaborating with various municipal authorities to create a downtown that attracts over 30 million annual visitors while maintaining its unique identity.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Focus on supporting local businesses that give your city a unique character and "make the city cool."
Create incentives that help historic redevelopment while still allowing for new growth.
Work in partnership with various city authorities (parking, transit, housing) to align development goals.
Develop housing incentives that encourage economic diversity, not just luxury developments.
Measure downtown success by evening vibrancy and residential activity, not just daytime business metrics.
Recognize the importance of maintaining racial and economic diversity in downtown development plans.
Position anchor institutions like healthcare and universities as catalysts for urban revitalization.
Balance the needs of various stakeholders: residents, workers, and visitors.
Create development tools that preserve local character while encouraging economic growth.
Focus on making downtown a destination with diverse attractions that can draw millions of visitors annually.

Special Guest: David Fleming.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

169: Reimagining Urban Industrial Spaces for Modern Manufacturing with Lindsay Greene

Dane Carlson — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson speaks with Lindsay Greene, CEO of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, about transforming industrial spaces for modern manufacturing. Greene shares insights on the challenges of changing perceptions about manufacturing careers, the importance of integrating workforce development with economic strategy, and her unusual career path from investment banking to grocery e-commerce before leading a major industrial development. The conversation explores how the Navy Yard creates accessible economic opportunities, the difficulties of attracting grocery stores to underserved areas, and Greene's passion for industrial policy as a driver of economic growth.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways

Consider integrating workforce development and economic development under one organizational structure to reduce friction and align goals.
Modernize perceptions of manufacturing by highlighting how today's industrial jobs offer sustainable careers without requiring advanced degrees.
Create flexible spaces like pop-up opportunities for businesses not ready to commit to permanent locations.
Recognize the unique challenges of attracting grocery stores and develop targeted strategies for food access in underserved areas.
Leverage social media (like Instagram) and accessible communication channels to connect with community members and businesses.
Balance preservation of industrial/waterfront spaces with the need for evolution to meet modern economic needs.
Build strategic partnerships that enhance both economic opportunity and quality of life for residents.
Develop demonstration projects that showcase how traditional industries are transforming for the future.
Consider how your personal and professional background, even if unconventional, brings valuable perspective to economic development work.
Create open channels of communication between your executive team and the public to foster engagement and collaboration.

Special Guest: Lindsay Greene.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

168: Reimagining Economic Transformation for Distressed Communities with Rohan Sandhu

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Rohan Sandhu, co-founder of the Reimagining the Economy Project at Harvard Kennedy School, to examine the convergence of industrial policy, market crafting, and place-based economic development strategies. Drawing on his 15 years of experience at the intersection of research and practice, Sandhu discusses how traditional economic development approaches often fail distressed communities due to uncoordinated policies and limited local capacity. They explore how forward-looking economic transformation requires moving beyond reactive, transactional approaches to development and better aligning workforce systems with economic growth initiatives. Sandhu's insights from his work on projects like "Bottom-Up Bidenomics" and "The US Place-Based Policy Supply Chain" offer practical guidance for practitioners seeking to build more resilient local economies.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Shift from reactive, crisis-driven economic development to forward-looking strategies with a clear vision for transformation.
Focus on building local institutional capacity as a foundation for implementing any economic development initiative.
Identify and address the coordination gaps between overlapping economic development policies at federal, state, and local levels.
Recognize the limitations of matching fund requirements that often exclude the most distressed communities from accessing resources.
Develop funding models for local intermediary organizations that support capacity-building, not just project implementation.
Integrate workforce development explicitly into economic growth strategies rather than treating them as separate domains.
Use data visualization tools like economyinplace.com to better understand local labor markets and policy flows in your region.
Examine how industrial policy principles can be applied practically to support small and medium enterprises in your community.
Identify opportunities for "productive upgrading" of service sectors that absorb local labor.
Design economic development strategies that directly target persistent economic distress rather than focusing primarily on already-advantaged areas.

Special Guest: Rohan Sandhu.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

167: Digital Marketing Strategies for EDOs with Alissa Sklar

Dane Carlson — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson speaks with marketing consultant Alissa Sklar about effective digital strategies for economic development organizations. They discuss leveraging AI tools while maintaining an authentic voice, website management tips for small EDOs, content amplification through LinkedIn, and how to build partnerships with educational institutions. Alissa offers practical advice for economic developers wearing multiple hats, emphasizing how to maximize impact with limited resources and time.

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Actionable Takeaways

Use AI tools like ChatGPT to draft content, but always rewrite it to match your organization's voice and verify all information.
Amplify LinkedIn posts by having your director and board members repost content with additional commentary to significantly increase reach.
Define clear objectives for all marketing content (website visits, downloads, event attendance) before creation.
Avoid using auto-translate features that might make your organization appear to have capabilities it doesn't.
Partner with local universities or community colleges for mutually beneficial marketing projects.
Repurpose and leverage the same content across different platforms to maximize efficiency.
Develop a consistent hashtag strategy for your organization's social media posts.
Focus website content on what visitors need rather than internal organizational structures.
Build relationships with educational institutions to connect with future business leaders.
For small EDOs, prioritize quality website content over trying to maintain presence on too many platforms.

Special Guest: Alissa Sklar.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

166: Building Arkansas's Economic Future: Adapting to Changing Workforce Priorities with Clint O'Neal

Dane Carlson — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Clint O'Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, to discuss the evolution of economic development over his 17-year career spanning both Missouri and Arkansas. O'Neal shares his path from junior high teacher to economic development leader, highlights successful foreign direct investment projects, and emphasizes the importance of customer service in working with businesses. He also offers perspective on how economic development is adapting to changing workforce priorities, with quality of life and community attractiveness becoming increasingly important factors as people choose where to live before finding employment.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Focus intensely on customer service when working with prospective businesses, as exceptional service can differentiate your location.
Recognize that workers increasingly choose locations first and jobs second, making quality of life initiatives critical.
Develop "risk-free" industrial sites that accelerate timelines and build company confidence in your location.
Leverage data and AI tools to speed up information exchange with site selectors and businesses.
Build strong relationships between economic development efforts and government leadership for coordinated responses.
Create memorable experiences for visiting executives that showcase your region's unique advantages.
Invest in outdoor recreation and quality of life amenities that make your community attractive to today's mobile workforce.
Understand that economic development success often comes from coordinating multiple elements (tax policy, site readiness, incentives) simultaneously.
Network with other economic development professionals to continuously learn and improve practices.
Consider how shifts in business priorities (such as location flexibility) can be leveraged to benefit your community's recruitment efforts.

Special Guest: Clint O'Neal.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

165: Leveraging Location and Infrastructure with Gus Garcia

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson welcomes Gus Garcia, the Director of Economic Development for the City of Arlington, Texas. Gus, a dual-certified economic developer with over 19 years of experience, shares his journey through various roles in both the public and private sectors. He emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, leveraging infrastructure, and fostering collaboration to achieve economic growth. Highlighting his work in Arlington and previous initiatives in cities like Edinburg and Duncanville, Gus provides listeners with a wealth of knowledge on implementing impactful economic development projects and aligning them with a city's long-term vision.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Adopt strategic planning to keep your economic development initiatives aligned with long-term community goals.
Leverage your community's location and infrastructure to attract businesses and investments.
Cultivate both public and private sector partnerships to drive comprehensive economic growth.
Draw upon your previous experiences to create adaptable solutions in new roles.
Engage with local educational institutions to foster an environment conducive to economic advancement.
Encourage civic leadership and active community involvement in economic decision-making.
Recognize the importance of family support and personal interests in maintaining professional balance.
Utilize certifications and continuous learning to enhance your skills and credibility.
Balance immediate economic needs with long-term transformation strategies.
Treat every stakeholder with dignity and respect, adhering to the golden rule in all interactions.

Gus' Recommended Book

The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter, Updated and Expanded - it sets the tone for an organization's direction. In Economic development, we have to have a plan and follow it. It is easy to get sidetracked in many different directions.

Special Guest: Gus Garcia.

Links:

164: Confronting Workforce Challenges in Wisconsin with Sadie Howell

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Sadie Howell with Envision Greater Fond du Lac, a combined Chamber of Commerce and economic development organization in Wisconsin.

Sadie shares insights about her region's economic landscape, including the surprising prevalence of small manufacturers and agricultural businesses that often goes unnoticed.

They discuss the challenges of workforce development, the advantages of a combined chamber-economic development approach, and the importance of understanding local politics and stakeholder dynamics.

As a long-time listener of the podcast before becoming a guest, Sadie offers valuable perspective on regional economic development strategies and the shared challenges that unite economic developers across different communities.

Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Study the layout of your community's stakeholders, including their biases and politics, to identify which challenges you can overcome and which you should work around.
Recognize that most economic developers face similar challenges with boards, communities, and regional impacts - you're not alone.
Leverage the complementary strengths of chamber of commerce and economic development functions when possible.
Address workforce issues by coordinating efforts across regions rather than trying to solve everything at the local level.
Challenge misconceptions about your region by actively showcasing lesser-known economic assets like small manufacturers.
Connect local economic development priorities with state-level initiatives around talent attraction, childcare, and housing development.
Network with other economic developers to validate your experiences and gather new approaches to common challenges.
Consider how to tailor workforce programming specifically for chamber members while making entrepreneurship services broadly available.
Identify early in your planning process which obstacles can be overcome and which need to be circumvented.
Use podcasts and other learning resources to continuously build your economic development knowledge, especially in areas outside your expertise.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Sadie Howell.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

163: Understanding What Investors Really Want from Locations with Chris Knight of FT Locations

Dane Carlson — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson speaks with Chris Knight, Managing Director of FT Locations, about the nuances of investment promotion and economic development across different global regions. Chris introduces the newly rebranded FT Locations (known for products like Zoom Prospector, FDI Intelligence, and other Financial Times economic development tools) which officially launched on November 12th, 2024.

He explains how the consolidated brand brings together several previously separate services under the Financial Times umbrella to better serve both economic developers and companies seeking investment locations worldwide. Chris draws from his extensive international experience to offer insights on effective investment attraction strategies and emphasizes the importance of understanding investor perspectives when promoting regional opportunities.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Consider how your digital presence appears from an investor's perspective rather than just telling your community's story.
Recognize the value of consolidated data tools like those offered by FT Locations to enhance your investment attraction efforts.
Look beyond administrative boundaries when developing regional strategies, as investors focus on market opportunities, not jurisdictional lines.
Learn how international best practices in investment promotion can be adapted to your local context.
Focus on understanding investor problems first before presenting your location as the solution.
Use professional tools and databases to better understand your competitive position in the global marketplace.
Distinguish between broader economic development goals and specific investment promotion activities.
Collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions to present a unified labor market and value proposition to potential investors.
Keep up with rebranding efforts of major tools and services in the industry to ensure you're accessing the full range of available resources.
Connect directly with service providers like FT Locations (chris.knight@ft.comor via LinkedIn) to maximize the value of their tools for your community.

Special Guest: Chris Knight.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

FT Locations

162: Mountain Town Meets Hurricane Helene with Spencer Bost

Dane Carlson — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Spencer Bost, Executive Director of Downtown Spruce Pine, takes us through the dramatic transformation of his organization following Hurricane Helene's devastation. From managing their annual blacksmith festival and facade grant programs in this mountain town of 2,000 residents, to suddenly facing eight-foot flood waters that destroyed businesses, including his own office, Bost reveals how the community responded to this natural disaster while maintaining their position as a crucial global source of high-purity quartz.

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Actionable Takeaways:

Develop flexible organizational structures that can pivot during crises
Create emergency communication systems that work without power
Maintain detailed documentation of pre-disaster conditions
Build relationships with emergency management teams before disasters
Plan for both small-scale events and large-scale disasters
Keep important documents and equipment above potential flood levels
Develop evacuation routes that consider topography
Create crisis management plans that protect both people and assets
Maintain relationships with regional and state economic development partners
Balance immediate disaster response with long-term economic planning

Spencer's Favorite Book:

Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold is my most influential book because it beautifully connects the dots between the natural world and the human experience, particularly in rural areas. As an outdoor lover, Leopold's deep respect for ecosystems inspires a sense of stewardship. From a rural economy standpoint, his philosophy of land ethic emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the communities that depend on it. It’s a powerful reminder that conservation and economic development can coexist when rooted in a genuine appreciation for the land.

Special Guest: Spencer Bost.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

161: Unlocking the Power of Tertiary Markets with Dr. Ronda Sauget

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dr. Ronda Sauget, President and CEO of Coles Together, discusses the unique advantages of tertiary markets in economic development. She explores how smaller communities like Coles County, Illinois are attracting businesses through stable workforces, easier business processes, and strong infrastructure, while sharing her journey from the Federal Reserve to leading economic development in a thriving micropolitan area.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Take fresh looks at existing assets - they might be more valuable than you think
Focus on building complete ecosystems including housing, childcare, and healthcare
Leverage your location's unique advantages in infrastructure and connectivity
Develop strong workforce pipelines through youth apprenticeships
Create strategic plans that align all community assets
Build relationships with both large and small businesses
Focus on quick turnaround times for business requests
Highlight quality of life advantages for workforce attraction
Develop strong public-private partnerships
Invest in sustainable infrastructure like green energy for long-term growth

Special Guest: Dr. Ronda Sauget.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

160: From Cowtown to Boomtown with Robert Sturns

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Robert Sturns, Director of Economic Development for Fort Worth, discusses how the city is transforming from "Cowtown to Boomtown" while preserving its authentic character.

With over 25 years of experience in municipal government, commercial real estate, and banking operations, Sturns details Fort Worth's success in securing major investments, including recent wins with Bell and Embraer, while balancing business recruitment with community development initiatives like Evans & Rosedale and the Panther Island project.

Sturns also discusses his journey in the profession, including his 20+ year career serving both Fort Worth and Arlington. He offers insights into managing regional relationships, particularly addressing the challenge of establishing Fort Worth's identity distinct from Dallas, while emphasizing the importance of teamwork and partnerships in economic development success.

Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Balance large-scale development with community needs and cultural preservation
Focus on building relationships before transactions in deal-making
Leverage existing cultural assets (like the Stockyards) for economic growth
Develop strategic plans for transformational projects like Panther Island
Create mixed-use developments that honor local heritage while embracing progress
Build strong partnerships with educational institutions for workforce development
Maintain clear communication channels with stakeholders and the community
Use existing success stories (like Bell and Embraer) to attract similar industries
Implement creative financing solutions for major development projects
Balance business retention efforts with new business recruitment strategies

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Special Guest: Robert Sturns.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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159: Breaking the Poverty Cycle with Mary Cacioppi

Dane Carlson — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Mary Cacioppi brings her 22 years of combined experience in community development, economic development, and poverty reduction to discuss her groundbreaking approach to economic development. As the founder/CEO of Bridges to Prosperity Northern Illinois and a national consultant for aha! Process, Mary explains how understanding the root causes of poverty and implementing strategic poverty reduction initiatives can transform communities and create sustainable economic growth across a five-county area.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Start using the term "attainable housing" instead of "affordable housing" to reduce stigma and increase acceptance
Conduct a community risk assessment to identify key areas needing attention
Evaluate your community's commitment to poverty reduction using the TRE Institute assessment tool
Create systems for tracking and measuring the utilization of community services
Build collaborative frameworks with other community organizations to avoid duplicate services
Reframe poverty reduction conversations as "upward mobility" when working with elected officials
Assess which community programs are underutilized and need better promotion
Develop strategic plans that integrate poverty reduction with economic development
Focus on creating system-wide changes rather than isolated programs
Engage business community leaders in poverty reduction conversations

Special Guest: Mary Cacioppi.

Links:

158: From Volunteer to CEO with Jennifer Storm

Dane Carlson — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Jennifer Storm, CEO of the Buda Economic Development Corporation, who discusses her transition from association management and government relations to economic development leadership. Storm shares insights about managing a rapidly growing community that's 90% built out, the importance of team building, and how her background in various roles prepared her for leading economic development in one of Texas's fastest-growing corridors.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Focus on building and developing the right team for your organization
Don't underestimate the value of volunteer experience in economic development
Build strong relationships with regional economic development partners
Plan strategically when dealing with limited developable land
Stay connected with community stakeholders through regular communication
Consider the impact of surrounding communities on your development strategy
Leverage prior experience from other fields in economic development
Be proactive in addressing space constraints in your community
Maintain strong connections with your board and city leadership
Focus on quality development when quantity is limited by space

Special Guest: Jennifer Storm.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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157: An Optimistic Reimagining of the City with Coby Lefkowitz

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Coby Lefkowitz, co-founder and partner at Backyard, a real estate development firm specializing in infill multifamily projects in walkable communities. Coby shares insights from his book "Building Optimism: Why Our World Looks the Way it Does, and How to Make it Better" and discusses how communities can evolve through better development practices, emphasizing the importance of context-specific solutions and the integration of mixed-use spaces in urban planning.

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Actionable Takeaways

Take tours of successful mixed-use developments to understand what works
Avoid one-size-fits-all solutions; focus on context-specific development
Consider integrating residential and commercial spaces in development plans
Work on making communities more walkable and accessible
Engage with smaller and medium-sized developers for more dynamic development
Study successful pedestrian mall implementations and failures
Focus on creating vibrant, integrated community spaces
Understand local context before implementing development strategies
Build relationships between economic developers and city officials
Consider gradual implementation of mixed-use zoning reforms

Special Guest: Coby Lefkowitz.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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156: The Art of Economic Development Fundraising with Clint Nessmith

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Clint Nessmith, CEO of Resource Development Group, reveals the niche world of economic development fundraising consulting. He explains how his firm exclusively works with economic development organizations and chambers of commerce across the country, particularly focusing on larger regional chambers in major markets. Nessmith shares insights about the fundraising process, the importance of market validation, and how proper fundraising can unite communities behind a shared vision.

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Actionable Takeaways

Consider hiring specialized fundraising consultants for major economic development campaigns
Validate your fundraising goals through market research before launching campaigns
Use fundraising processes to unite community stakeholders behind a shared vision
Focus on creating comprehensive plans that address market-identified needs
Don't hesitate to delay fundraising if market validation suggests you're not ready
Leverage external expertise to add credibility to your fundraising efforts
Stay informed about economic development funding trends through industry resources
Build fundraising models that match your organization's size and scope
Use fundraising campaigns as opportunities to strengthen community relationships
Incorporate market feedback into your organizational messaging and planning

Special Guest: Clint Nessmith.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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155: Building Cedar Park's Future with Arthur Jackson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Arthur Jackson, Chief Economic Development Officer for Cedar Park, Texas. Arthur shares his unexpected path into economic development following a layoff from a sales director position, leading to his role with the Austin Chamber and eventual leadership in Cedar Park. Through their conversation, Arthur reveals how his sales background enhances his economic development approach, emphasizing the importance of listening and resilience. He also showcases Cedar Park's impressive achievements as the safest and most affluent city in the Austin area, while discussing the delicate balance of regional cooperation and local development in the greater Austin metroplex.

Cedar Park is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Under Arthur’s leadership, this rapidly growing suburb of Austin is attracting innovative businesses that are transforming the tech, aerospace and clean energy industries including rocket tester Firefly, Hyliion, which provides clean, flexible and affordable electricity production., and Hanyang. Cedar Park offers space, affordability and access to talent while capitalizing on its proximity to Austin.

The City is also attracting talent and providing enhanced livability to its residents by investing in itself. Cedar Park, which was incorporated about 50 years ago, has 80,000 residents and experienced 44.2% growth in the last population Census, but it never had a downtown or gathering place. The City’s approach to community development was to bet on big-box retail, a minor league sports and event arena (HEB Center), hotels, and 31 miles of trails and parks, along with housing. This presented an opportunity to build a modern-day downtown with resident buy-in. Cedar Park is currently building its first downtown with the Bell District—a $750 million development anchored by a $31 million state-of-the-art public library that opened this November.

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Special Guest: Arthur Jackson.

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Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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154: Airports as Economic Engines with Alan Tio

Dane Carlson — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Alan Tio shares his journey from earning his Master's in Public Administration to his current role as VP of Business Development at South Bend International Airport. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of airport-based economic development, including managing hundreds of acres of developable land and creating partnerships to maximize the airport's potential as a community asset. Tio emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and viewing the airport as the "front door" to the community for business development.

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Actionable Takeaways

View airports as strategic community assets beyond just transportation hubs
Focus on creating long-term partnerships rather than short-term wins
Look for opportunities that others might not see in your community
Use winter months for planning and preparation of development-ready sites
Understand the importance of first impressions - your community's "front door"
Develop comprehensive land use studies before marketing properties
Build relationships with local and regional partners for aligned development
Consider utilities and infrastructure needs early in the planning process
Take time to understand regional priorities when planning development
Focus on creating value for both companies and communities in partnerships

Special Guest: Alan Tio.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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153: Sandy Dubay Created Her Own Path in Economic Development

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Sandy Dubay opens up about her unexpected path from traditional economic development to entrepreneurship, sparked by a life-changing moment when she was pregnant with her first child and a friend's suggestion led her to establish her own consulting practice, which has now grown to a team of eight people over 22 years, while also discussing her passion for educating new economic developers through her her EDO Breakthrough Podcast.

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Special Guest: Sandy Dubay.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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152: Economic Development in Mexico with Juan Pablo Alcantar

Dane Carlson — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Juan Pablo Alcantar, the CEO of Economic Development for Tuxpan in Mexico. Juan shares his journey from being US-trained to making significant changes in economic development practices in his hometown. Faced with challenges like data accessibility and cash-based economies, he emphasizes the importance of implementing best practices and establishing rapport with stakeholders. Juan also recounts his interactions with significant institutions like the North American Development Bank and moments of insight during meetings at the White House Business Council.

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Actionable Takeaways:

Building relationships with stakeholders is crucial for gaining support.
Ensure continuous training to incorporate international best practices.
Transitioning from a cash-based to a digital economy can improve data accessibility.
Tailor economic development strategies to local contexts despite international insights.
An effective investment attraction requires a dedicated website distinct from government portals.
Use data analytics to support entrepreneurship and economic risk management.
Present clear and current data to stakeholders to foster informed decision-making.
Engage with global economic bodies and networks to gain valuable perspectives.
Adapt international concepts to fit local economic and cultural environments.
Encourage innovation even in the face of local opposition to new practices.

Special Guest: Juan Pablo Alcantar.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Juan Pablo Alcantar, CEcD | LinkedIn

151: Economic Development Scorecards Simplified with Kathleen Rose

Dane Carlson — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Kathleen Rose, drawing from her 30-year experience and family background in development, discusses the evolution of economic development planning from lengthy reports to actionable scorecards. She emphasizes the importance of practical implementation over extensive planning, sharing how her firm helps communities move from aspirational ideas to concrete actions through data-driven approaches and efficient resource allocation.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers:

Replace lengthy reports with concise, data-driven scorecards to track progress
Focus on implementation strategies rather than just creating plans
Build stronger partnerships with the private sector for effective execution
Use scorecards with 90 data points to guide decision-making
Consider cost-effective snapshot assessments before investing in expensive plans
Create practical "recipe books" for implementing strategic plans
Align economic development goals with existing comprehensive land use plans
Prioritize action-oriented documents over aspirational planning
Update and track progress regularly using measurable data points
Focus resources on specific annual priorities rather than trying to do everything at once

Special Guest: Kathleen Rose.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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150: Rethinking Highway Corridors with Dan Eernissee

Dane Carlson — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson speaks with Dan Eernissee, Economic Development Director for the City of Everett, Washington. Leading economic development efforts in this dynamic city of 115,000 residents north of Seattle, Dan reveals how his unique blend of private sector experience and public service shapes his approach to community development. From attracting cutting-edge technology companies to reimagining traditional retail spaces, Dan shares practical insights on how economic developers can transform their communities while maintaining their distinct character and creating new opportunities for residents.

Dan also talks about reimagining highway corridors as valuable community assets rather than eyesores. Through his unique perspective, Dan explains how these often-overlooked areas can become dynamic mixed-use spaces that provide essential services, housing opportunities, and quality jobs while maintaining their crucial role in transportation infrastructure.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers:

Consider highway corridors as opportunities for mixed-use development rather than just retail spaces
Utilize planned actions to streamline development processes and attract investors
Look for opportunities to convert underperforming retail spaces into multifamily housing
Focus on creating higher-paying jobs through industrial and manufacturing development along corridors
Embrace the existing infrastructure and traffic capacity of highway corridors for development
Balance the need for pedestrian-friendly spaces with the practical reality of highway commerce
Consider how online shopping trends affect corridor development opportunities
Look for ways to integrate housing solutions into existing commercial corridors
Leverage existing utility infrastructure along corridors for new development
Focus on creating true mixed-use environments that serve multiple community needs

Special Guest: Dan Eernissee.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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149: Mastering Community Events and Economic Growth with Lynn Fuhler

Dane Carlson — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, tourism expert Lynn Fuhler, former tourism director of Clearwater and Clearwater Beach area and author of two books on festival management, discusses the intricacies of organizing successful events and festivals. She shares her experience as the former chairman of the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, insights on community revitalization through arts and tourism, and emphasizes the importance of proper event planning, including post-event evaluation and the four key elements necessary for tourism development.

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Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Focus on sustainable tourism initiatives rather than just chasing big industrial projects
Ensure four key elements are in place: government support, infrastructure, community support, and proper planning
Use events and festivals as consistent economic drivers rather than relying solely on large, unstable employers
Implement thorough post-event evaluation processes to continuously improve
Build strong volunteer networks and management systems for community events
Create infrastructure that serves multiple purposes (like transportation routes that benefit both tourism and industry)
Recognize the role of arts communities in revitalizing declining areas
Document processes and maintain organized records for event planning continuity
Consider tourism as a reliable employer for entry-level and service industry workers
Foster collaboration between government, business, and community stakeholders for successful tourism initiatives

Special Guest: Lynn Fuhler.

Links:

148: High-Touch Economic Development in Indiana with Brock Herr

Dane Carlson — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Brock Herr, Senior Vice President for Business Development at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. They discuss the evolution of economic development beyond simple land sales.

He details Indiana's comprehensive approach to business development, including sales enablement, lead generation, site selection, and ongoing business support. Herr emphasizes the importance of high-touch engagement and walking businesses through each step of their journey, highlighting how modern economic development requires a full-experience approach to ensure long-term success.

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Ten Actionable Insights for Economic Developers

Develop a high-touch, full-experience model for business engagement
Focus beyond just selling land - create comprehensive support systems
Build strong introduction networks for new businesses
Maintain detailed knowledge of available sites and inventory
Create strategic approaches for modern site selection needs
Implement business retention and expansion programs
Develop clear online resources while maintaining personal connections
Focus on long-term business success rather than just initial attraction
Create systems to support projects of all sizes, not just large ones
Establish clear communication channels for business support needs

Five Notable Quotes

"Economic development is not an easy game and glad that somebody like you's bringing a little bit of insight to folks that may not have a peek into what we do on a day to day."
"There's more to it than just selling them a piece of land."
"You bring a business into your community, and you want them to succeed."
"Like you'd rather not just be looked at as a sale or a metric."
"Walking them through step by step, introducing them to who they need to be introduced to, opening doors that are closed to them, all those kinds of things."

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Indiana Economic Development Corporation
Gov. Holcomb, IEDC continue record-breaking economic momentum, secure largest annual committed capital investment in Indiana’s history — Following back-to-back record-setting years for investment and the largest quarter on record in Q1 2024, Indiana sets yet another record with $38.3 billion in committed CapEx
J. Brock H. | LinkedIn

147: Transforming Communities Through Redevelopment with Kristen Fish-Peterson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0500

This episode of the Econ Dev Show podcast features an insightful conversation with Kristen Fish-Peterson, the Principal and CEO at Redevelopment Resources. Kristen shares her vast expertise in economic and community development, detailing the work her firm does in housing studies, market analysis, and downtown redevelopment planning. Throughout the episode, Kristen emphasizes her team's unique ability to work with both private developers and public sector entities, helping them navigate the complexities of municipal processes and strategic planning.

As the discussion unfolds, Dane and Kristen explore how economic development and redevelopment projects can rejuvenate communities, particularly downtown areas. Kristen delves into how her team assists municipalities in implementing redevelopment plans and helping developers secure the necessary municipal support. This episode provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the world of redevelopment, offering valuable insights for economic developers and community planners alike.

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Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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146: The Coming Demographic Drought: Navigating America's Looming Labor Crisis with Josh Wright

Dane Carlson — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, Dane Carlson interviews Josh Wright about Lightcast's new report "The Rising Storm: Building a Future-Ready Workforce to Withstand the Looming Labor Shortage." The report explores the impending demographic drought due to retiring baby boomers, declining birth rates, and other factors such as incarceration and addiction. Wright explains how these converging trends are creating an unprecedented challenge for the U.S. economy, with certain industries like healthcare, construction, and food service already feeling the impact. He discusses the potential long-term consequences of this labor shortage on economic growth, productivity, and community sustainability.

The conversation then shifts to strategies for economic developers and communities to prepare for this challenge. Wright emphasizes the importance of skills-based hiring and training, talent attraction and retention, and partnerships between businesses and educational institutions. He advocates for a data-driven approach, urging communities to analyze their local labor markets and adapt their workforce development strategies accordingly. The episode provides valuable insights for economic development professionals, policymakers, and business leaders on how to build a future-ready workforce in the face of these demographic shifts. Wright also highlights the resources available in the report and accompanying materials to help communities navigate this looming crisis.

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Special Guest: Josh Wright.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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145: Economic Development in Southern Oregon with Marta Tarantsey

Dane Carlson — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Marta Tarantsey, Regional Development Officer for Business Oregon, about her work fostering economic growth in Southern Oregon. Since 2017, Marta has supported businesses and communities in the region, navigating the challenges and opportunities of a state rich in natural resources and talent but with a smaller population compared to national competitors.

Marta highlights key topics such as Oregon’s urban growth boundary and its influence on development. She shares the success story of Dutch Bros Coffee—an Oregon startup that scaled into a national brand and went public—as a prime example of the region’s potential. The conversation also explores pressing workforce issues, including childcare shortages, drawing on insights from a recent panel hosted by the Grants Pass and Josephine Chamber of Commerce.

Throughout the episode, Marta’s passion for community engagement is evident as she reflects on her involvement with local organizations. Her journey from Russia to Oregon over two decades ago adds a unique perspective to her approach to economic development. This conversation offers valuable insights into navigating regional growth challenges and strategies for building resilient communities in a competitive national landscape.

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Special Guest: Marta Tarantsey.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Marta Tarantsey | LinkedIn
Business Oregon
Dutch Bros
Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life's Greatest Lesson by Mitch Alborn — Marta said: "It was one of the first books I was able to read and fully comprehend, internalize, and reflect on once I learned English. Upon reading it I decided to keep in touch with those who've helped me along the way, and I still keep in touch with my college professors and mentors from eras past."

144: Innovative Economic Development in St. Louis with Jason Archer and Darrell Scott

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, Dane talks with Darrell Scott and Jason Archer from the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership. Scott, the Vice President of Business Finance, and Archer, the Vice President of Business Development, share insights into their organization's unique role in promoting economic growth across both St. Louis City and County. They discuss their career paths, the challenges of attracting talent to the region, and highlight some of their successful projects and initiatives.

A key focus of the conversation is the Partnership's innovative Business Retention and Expansion program, which has won awards for its collaborative approach involving multiple economic development entities. The guests also touch on how COVID-19 has impacted their work, leading to more efficient virtual meetings and expanded outreach. Throughout the interview, Scott and Archer emphasize their commitment to supporting businesses of all sizes and fostering economic development in the St. Louis area.

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Special Guests: Darrell Scott and Jason Archer.

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143: Dane on DMP: Why Destination Marketers Should Think Like Economic Developers

Dane Carlson — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0500

About a month ago, I had the opportunity to appear on my friend Adam Stoker's Destination Marketing Podcast. Then, just a couple of weeks ago, Adam joined me right here on the Econ Dev Show. We thought it would be fun to switch things up and share our respective podcast episodes on each other's feeds. So, today’s episode is a bonus feature—you're about to hear my appearance on the Destination Marketing Podcast!

If you're interested in destination marketing, or want to know more about the work I did in Mariposa County, California, sit back, relax, and enjoy this special episode of the Destination Marketing Podcast."

In this episode, Adam talks with Dane Carlson, host of the Econ Dev Show and CEO of Site Hunt, about the crucial link between tourism and economic development. Dane shares his journey from blogging to economic development, including how he transformed Mariposa California by adding an escape room to the visitor center. Dane also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between economic developers and destination marketers to create meaningful visitor experiences and drive local economic growth.

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Special Guest: Adam Stoker.

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142: Economic Strategies in Maine with Anne Krieg

Dane Carlson — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this engaging episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane is joined by Anne Krieg, the Director of Community and Economic Development for Bangor, Maine. Anne provides an insightful overview of Bangor's economic landscape, emphasizing that while tourism is a major economic driver in Maine, Bangor relies more heavily on its medical centers and educational institutions, such as the Northern Light Medical Center and the University of Maine. She discusses the effective use of federal funds to revitalize underserved neighborhoods and the significant challenges that rural communities face due to limited staffing. Through her experience and perspective, Anne highlights the importance of community-focused planning and the need for systemic changes in regional development strategies to foster lasting economic growth.

10 Actionable Insights

Livability: Focus on making your community a desirable place to live with walkable neighborhoods, good parks, and quality education. This attracts both residents and businesses who want a high quality of life.
Community Engagement: Adopt a conversational, bottom-up approach to development. Involve the community in discussions to ensure that plans meet local needs and gain their support.
Long-term Planning: Develop and think in terms of 5, 10, 15, and 20-year plans. Strategic foresight ensures sustainable development and adaptability to future needs.
Promote Your City: Actively market your city to the outside world. Attend trade shows and tell your city's story to attract new investments and visitors.
Utilize Unique Assets: Leverage unique local assets like municipal airports and foreign trade zones. Highlight and make full use of distinctive infrastructure to drive economic opportunities.
Collaborate Regionally: Foster informal regional collaborations. Work with neighboring communities to address broader economic challenges and opportunities.
Support Rural Areas: Provide assistance to smaller rural communities that lack staff and resources. Offer guidance and resources to help them navigate development challenges.
Implementing Strategies: Focus on executing developed economic strategies. Turn plans into action by ensuring your team is dedicated to following through on strategies.
Holistic Approach: Employ planners who can see the bigger picture and integrate various aspects of city planning into economic development. A holistic view can create more cohesive and well-rounded development initiatives.
Sustainable Partnerships: Establish ongoing partnerships with local institutions and organizations. Collaboration with local entities ensures continuous support and resources for development projects.

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Special Guest: Anne Krieg.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

141: Navigating EDA Grants for Economic Development with Beka Shiver

Dane Carlson — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode Dane Carlson and Beka Shiver (Economic Development and Transportation Planner for the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission) delve into the grant application process for federal programs like the Economic Development Administration. They explore a range of projects, from critical infrastructure improvements to innovative business incubators. Shiver highlights the importance of patience and effective communication throughout the grant process. She notes that while federal funding may not be ideal for urgent needs, it plays a crucial role in supporting long-term community development, particularly in historically underserved rural areas.

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Actionable Economic Development Insights

Capitalize on every opportunity: Be proactive in networking by answering all phone calls, attending relevant meetings, and consistently distributing business cards. This approach can lead to unexpected partnerships and opportunities.
Seek out multiple funding partners: Don't rely on a single source of funding. Combine resources from various entities such as county, city, and economic development commissions to create stronger, more competitive grant applications.
Aim for higher matching contributions: While federal EDA grants typically require a 20% match, providing a higher match (e.g., 35%) can make your application stand out and increase chances of approval.
Focus on regionalism and partnerships: Collaborate with multiple partners on singular projects. This approach not only strengthens applications but also fosters a spirit of regional cooperation.
Be patient with the grant process: Understand that federal funding is designed for long-term community development, not immediate needs. Plan accordingly and manage expectations.
Maintain consistent communication: Keep regular contact with funding agencies throughout the grant application and review process. This helps build relationships and keeps your project on their radar.
Look for innovative solutions: Draw inspiration from historical necessity-driven innovations to solve current challenges in rural communities. Think creatively about how to address modern problems.
Leverage STEM education initiatives: Use these programs as a foundation to build an ecosystem of innovators in the region. This can help create a skilled workforce and attract high-tech industries.
Be a good steward of resources: Continuously look for ways to maximize the impact of available funds and talents. This includes finding creative ways to stretch budgets and leverage existing assets.
Create an ecosystem for innovation: Focus on developing an environment that encourages people to try new ideas and approaches, even if they might fail. This can foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.
Diversify economic base: Work towards having a variety of industries in the region, from agricultural to manufacturing. This creates a more resilient local economy that can weather sector-specific downturns.
Leverage local strengths: Identify and utilize existing resources and industries (like major corporations or military bases) as anchors for further economic development. These can serve as the foundation for supply chains or complementary businesses.
Plan for sustainability: Think beyond the initial grant cycle. Develop strategies to maintain momentum and progress after the initial funding ends, ensuring long-term impact.
Focus on infrastructure improvements: Prioritize essential upgrades like wastewater systems, transportation networks, and broadband internet. These are often critical for attracting and retaining businesses.
Be aware of funding limitations: Understand the competitive nature of grant funding and plan accordingly. Have backup plans and alternative funding sources in case primary grant applications are unsuccessful.
Build long-term relationships: Instead of applying for grants year after year, focus on developing ongoing partnerships with funding agencies. This can lead to more consistent support and better alignment with agency goals.
Consider industrial park development: Where appropriate, explore opportunities to create or expand industrial parks. These can serve as hubs for business attraction and expansion efforts.
Embrace a long-term perspective: Recognize that significant economic development often takes years or even decades to fully manifest. Set realistic timelines and celebrate incremental progress along the way.

Special Guest: Beka Shiver.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

140: Transforming Southern Illinois' Economic Development with Deb Barnett

Dane Carlson — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Deb Barnett, the executive director of SI Now.

SI Now is a relatively new regional economic development organization founded in the fall of 2022, serving 17 counties in Southern Illinois. She explains that the organization was created to address the need for a more strategic and collaborative approach to economic development in the region, moving away from the previous model where communities and counties worked in isolation.

During the conversation, Barnett highlights SI Now's focus on long-term economic growth and shares insights about their current projects and future plans. She also discusses her involvement in a podcast called "Small Town Big Business," which features interviews with small business owners in Southern Illinois. Barnett emphasizes the importance of storytelling in economic development and expresses optimism about the increasing number of opportunities and projects in the pipeline for the region.

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Special Guest: Deb Barnett.

Sponsored By:

Links:

139: From Tourism to Business Attraction: Podcasting in Economic Development with Adam Stoker

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Carlson sits down with Adam Stoker, president and CEO of Relic, to discuss the intersection of economic development and destination marketing. Adam, whose company specializes in creating podcasts for Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), shares insights on how the strategies used in tourism promotion can be effectively applied to economic development efforts.

The conversation explores the similarities between attracting tourists and attracting businesses, with both aiming to bring outside money into specific geographic areas. The discussion then delves into the power of podcasting as a marketing tool for economic developers.

Adam emphasizes how creating valuable, educational content through podcasts can help build relationships with potential investors and businesses without resorting to direct sales pitches. He shares success stories from his experience, highlighting how inviting guests to share their stories on a podcast often yields better results than traditional outreach methods.

The episode also addresses common objections to starting a podcast, such as fear of poor performance and lack of time, with Adam encouraging economic developers to overcome these barriers and prioritize audience building for long-term success in their community promotion efforts.

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Special Guest: Adam Stoker.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Adam Stoker | LinkedIn
Relic Agency: Holistic Marketing Partner for Destination Organizations
Destination Marketing Podcast
336: Why Destination Marketers Should Think Like Economic Developers with Dane Carlson — In this episode, Adam talks with Dane Carlson, host of the Econ Dev Show and CEO of Site Hunt, about the crucial link between tourism and economic development. Dane shares his journey from blogging to economic development, including how he transformed Mariposa California by adding an escape room to the visitor center. Dane also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between economic developers and destination marketers to create meaningful visitor experiences and drive local economic growth.
Launch Your Economic Development Podcast — Ready to amplify your economic development efforts through podcasting? The Econ Dev Show is partnering with destination marketing expert Adam Stoker to help economic developers like you launch successful podcasts. Whether you're looking to attract businesses, engage with investors, or showcase your community's unique strengths, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

138: Blending Non-Profit Values with For-Profit Agility: Bo Kemp’s Approach to Economic Development

Dane Carlson — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Bo Kemp, CEO of the Southland Development Authority discusses his unique approach to economic development through a not-for-profit organization that operates with the agility and risk-taking mindset of a for-profit business. Kemp emphasizes the importance of failing fast and pivoting quickly to optimize programs and services. He explains how his organization is structured to evaluate and stop initiatives that aren’t delivering the expected impact, which contrasts with traditional non-profits that often have difficulty abandoning projects due to the lengthy fundraising and validation process. His goal is to take on the risks that for-profit businesses avoid, using innovative techniques like measuring social impact and partnering with businesses to drive wealth-building at the municipal level.

Kemp also shares how his team is working to monetize their services by offering their proven models to other municipalities. For example, their business growth services could be replicated in cities like Tucson, Arizona, allowing other communities to benefit from their expertise and infrastructure without having to start from scratch. Kemp’s team uses tools like Salesforce and data science to manage relationships and measure success, which they are willing to share with other cities to support broader economic growth. The conversation highlights Kemp’s vision of blending for-profit efficiency with non-profit values to foster sustainable, community-centered development.

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Special Guest: Bo Kemp.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Bo Kemp | LinkedIn
Southland Development Authority — The SDA is a non-profit business organization designed to grow the economy of the South Suburbs.
Video - Southland Development Authority 2024 - YouTube
Southland Development Authority | LinkedIn
Southland Development Authority (@BuildSouthland) / X
Southland Development Authority | Facebook
Southland Development Authority (@buildsouthland) • Instagram photos and videos
Southland Development Authority - YouTube

137: Unlocking the American Dream: The Critical Role of Economic Development With Don Iannone

Dane Carlson — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode host Dane Carlson interviews Don Iannone, the author of "America's Dream, at the Crossroads," a book that delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the American Dream, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

The discussion centers on the critical role that economic development plays in enabling Americans to achieve the American Dream, emphasizing the often-overlooked connection between economic policies and individual prosperity.

Iannone explains how economic developers are at the forefront of shaping the future of the nation, making this conversation particularly relevant for those engaged in economic development and public policy.

Through this dialogue, Carlson and Iannone highlight the importance of understanding economic development not just as a technical field, but as a fundamental driver of societal well-being and a key factor in the nation's political landscape.

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Actionable Takeaways

Connect Economic Development to the American Dream: Ensure that your community’s economic development initiatives are directly tied to helping individuals achieve their version of the American Dream, emphasizing job creation, homeownership, and economic mobility.
Engage in Policy Advocacy: Advocate for policies at the local, state, and national levels that support sustainable economic growth and align with the broader goals of improving quality of life and expanding economic opportunities for all.
Foster Inclusive Growth: Focus on creating opportunities that benefit all segments of the population, particularly marginalized communities, to ensure that the economic benefits of development are widely shared.
Promote Workforce Development: Invest in education and training programs that equip workers with the skills needed for the jobs of the future, ensuring that your community remains competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
Leverage Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with businesses, educational institutions, and government entities to create innovative solutions that drive economic growth and community development.
Focus on Quality of Life: Develop strategies that not only attract businesses but also enhance the overall quality of life in your community, making it a desirable place to live, work, and invest.
Communicate the Economic Development Story: Clearly articulate the role of economic development in achieving the American Dream to stakeholders, including elected officials, business leaders, and the general public.
Prepare for Economic Disruptions: Build resilience into your economic development strategies by planning for potential disruptions, such as technological changes, global market shifts, or political instability.
Measure and Communicate Impact: Regularly assess the impact of your economic development efforts and communicate these results to stakeholders to demonstrate the value of your work and secure continued support.
Stay Informed on National Trends: Keep abreast of national economic and political trends that could impact your community, and be prepared to adjust your strategies accordingly to remain aligned with broader national goals.

Other Sponsors

🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now) and sponsors: EDOiQ, ResearchFDI, Jorgenson Pace, and SiteHunt. (Become a sponsor.)

Special Guest: Donald Iannone.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

136: A Conversation with Alia Abbas About Sustainable Economic Development

Dane Carlson — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:30:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson interviews Alia Abbas, an economic development consultant in Canada, about the critical importance of sustainable economic development. They discuss how integrating sustainability into daily economic development tasks can build community resilience against climate change and disasters.

Alia emphasizes the need for transparent risk communication with businesses, the importance of engaging with diverse stakeholders, and the growing influence of purpose-driven development among younger generations. The episode also explores incentivizing green initiatives, learning from resilient communities, and advocating for policy changes to support long-term sustainable growth. Aliyah's insights provide a fresh perspective on creating resilient, adaptable, and sustainable communities.

Actionable Takeaways

Incorporate Sustainable Development: Economic developers should integrate sustainable development into their daily tasks, making communities more resilient to disasters and climate change.
Transparent Risk Communication: Economic developers need to openly discuss risks like floods or power outages with businesses to build trust and help them prepare for potential challenges.
Engage with Businesses on Environmental Impact: Regularly consult with local businesses to understand the environmental impacts they face and how economic development can support mitigation efforts.
Incentivize Green Initiatives: Highlight and offer incentives for businesses to adopt greener practices, such as tax breaks or credits, to attract and retain companies focused on sustainability.
Learn from Resilient Communities: Study and collaborate with communities that have successfully managed disasters to improve local emergency management strategies and resilience.
Promote Cross-Sector Collaboration: Work with diverse stakeholders, including disaster emergency management professionals, supply chain groups, and higher education institutions, to address sustainable development comprehensively.
Focus on Purpose-Driven Development: Emphasize purpose-driven projects and job opportunities to attract younger generations who prioritize making a positive impact on their communities.
Advocate for Policy Changes: Push for policy changes that support sustainable and resilient economic development, ensuring long-term community stability and growth.
Develop Workforce Programs: Create workforce development programs that focus on green skills and sustainability to prepare the local workforce for future demands.
Stay Informed and Educate: Continuously educate yourself on new sustainability initiatives and trends by engaging with businesses and participating in relevant events and organizations, like the Great Lakes Economic Development Council.

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Other Sponsors

🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now) and sponsors: EDOiQ, ResearchFDI, The PACE Group, and SiteHunt. (Become a sponsor.)

Special Guest: Alia Abbas.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

135: July 2024 Update

Dane Carlson — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Dane Carlson had a wild July. Quiet fireworks, a hurricane, and COVID-19. But that's not the interesting part.

The interesting part is what he built: Sitehunt now automatically responds to RFIs.

How? It reads the RFI document, extracts questions and criteria, matches your sites, and generates a response packet. All automatically.

Plus, it understands local demographics, workforce, housing, and childcare situations. It uses this to answer RFI questions more intelligently.

Dane says no other tool does all this for economic developers.

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Links:

Sitehunt

134: Economic Development at Harvard University and Argonne National Labs With Lara Gale and Alison Turner

Dane Carlson — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 00:15:00 -0500

About this Episode

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, Dane Carlson sits down with Lara Gale, Economic Development Program Manager for the Taubman Center of State and Local Government at Harvard Kennedy School, and Alison Turner, Senior Economic Development Researcher at Argonne National Laboratory.

Lara Gale and Alison Turner bring their extensive expertise and passion for economic development to the discussion, sharing their unique perspectives and strategic visions. They delve into innovative approaches to fostering growth and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Lara provides insights into her role at the Harvard Kennedy School, where she manages economic development programs and supports state and local governments through research and practical solutions. She highlights key projects and initiatives that have contributed to economic successes, including infrastructure development and community engagement strategies.

Alison discusses her work at Argonne National Laboratory, focusing on research-driven economic development. She explores the role of technology and data in shaping economic development strategies, sharing examples of how data-driven decision-making can identify trends, optimize resources, and create business-friendly environments.

Together, Lara and Alison address the unique challenges and opportunities in managing economic development in diverse contexts. They emphasize the significance of community engagement and partnerships in driving economic growth, highlighting the importance of building strong relationships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations for a holistic approach to development.

This episode showcases the innovative work being done by Lara Gale and Alison Turner, providing valuable insights and practical strategies for economic developers and community leaders looking to drive positive change in their regions.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Leverage Academic Partnerships: Collaborate with academic institutions to access cutting-edge research and resources. This can provide valuable insights and innovative solutions for economic development challenges.
Utilize Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasize the importance of data in shaping economic strategies. Use data to identify trends, optimize resource allocation, and create a business-friendly environment.
Foster Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations. Engaging the community can lead to more holistic and sustainable economic development.
Focus on Infrastructure Development: Prioritize infrastructure projects that support long-term economic growth. This includes transportation, utilities, and technological infrastructure that can attract and retain businesses.
Encourage Strategic Planning: Develop comprehensive strategic plans that outline clear goals, strategies, and metrics for success. Ensure these plans are adaptable to changing economic conditions.
Promote Sustainability: Integrate sustainability into economic development strategies. This includes promoting green technologies, energy efficiency, and sustainable business practices.
Enhance Workforce Development: Invest in workforce development programs that align with the needs of local industries. This can include training, education, and partnerships with local educational institutions.
Diversify the Economic Base: Focus on attracting a diverse range of industries to reduce dependency on a single economic sector. This can make the local economy more resilient to market fluctuations.
Implement Technology Solutions: Adopt technology solutions that streamline operations and enhance service delivery. This can include digital platforms for business support, economic forecasting tools, and more.
Evaluate and Adapt: Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of economic development initiatives. Use feedback and data to make informed adjustments to strategies and programs.

Other Sponsors

🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now) and sponsors: EDOiQ, ResearchFDI, The PACE Group, and SiteHunt. (Become a sponsor.)

Special Guests: Alison Turner and Lara Gale.

Links:

Good Economics for Hard Times by Abhijit V. Banerjee, and Esther Duflo — The winners of the Nobel Prize show how economics, when done right, can help us solve the thorniest social and political problems of our day.
Alison Turner | LinkedIn
Lara Gale | LinkedIn
Argonne National Laboratory
Taubman Center for State and Local Government | Harvard Kennedy School

133: True Economic Development Provides an Opportunity for Everyone to be Successful with Ken Chapa

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, Dane Carlson sits down with Ken Chapa, the Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Avondale, Arizona, a thriving community in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Ken Chapa shares his journey and passion for economic development, highlighting his strategic vision for Avondale. With extensive experience in the field, Ken discusses the innovative approaches he has implemented to foster growth and sustainability in Avondale. He delves into the dynamic economic landscape of the city, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders to attract and retain businesses.

Throughout the conversation, Ken addresses the unique challenges and opportunities that come with managing economic development in a fast-growing urban area. He provides insights into key projects and initiatives that have significantly contributed to Avondale's economic success, including the development of the Avondale City Center, efforts to enhance infrastructure, and the attraction of healthcare and technology companies to diversify the economic base.

Ken also explores the role of technology and data in shaping economic development strategies. He shares examples of how Avondale leverages data-driven decision-making to identify trends, optimize resources, and create a business-friendly environment.

Additionally, Ken emphasizes the significance of community engagement and partnerships in driving economic development. He highlights the importance of building strong relationships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to create a holistic approach to growth and development.

By showcasing the innovative work being done in Avondale, this episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies for economic developers and community leaders looking to drive positive change in their regions. Ken's passion for economic development and his commitment to making Avondale a thriving and sustainable community make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the field.

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Actionable Insights for Economic Developers:

Focus on Unique Strengths: Identify and leverage the unique aspects of your community to stand out. For Avondale, this included its young population and investment in amenities that cater to younger families and professionals.
Develop Mixed-Use Projects: Consider developing mixed-use projects like the Avondale City Center to create vibrant, multi-functional spaces that attract residents and businesses alike.
Invest in Parks and Recreation: Invest heavily in parks, recreation, and community spaces to enhance the quality of life for residents and make your community more attractive to newcomers.
Foster Strong Educational Partnerships: Build strong partnerships with local schools and universities to support education and workforce development, ensuring a skilled talent pool for local businesses.
Engage with the Community: Actively engage with residents to get their input on projects and initiatives. This helps build a sense of ownership and pride in the community.
Leverage Data for Decision-Making: Use data-driven decision-making to identify trends, optimize resources, and create a business-friendly environment.
Attract Diverse Industries: Diversify the economic base by attracting a variety of industries, such as healthcare and technology companies, to ensure economic stability and growth.
Improve Infrastructure and Connectivity: Work on transportation and infrastructure projects to improve connectivity and accessibility within the community, making it easier for people to live, work, and play.
Promote a Business-Friendly Environment: Create policies and initiatives that support local businesses and make your community attractive for new investments.
Manage Sustainable Growth: Focus on managing growth in a sustainable way that maintains the quality of life for residents and preserves the unique characteristics of the community.

Other Sponsors

🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now) and sponsors: EDOiQ, ResearchFDI, The PACE Group, and SiteHunt. (Become a sponsor.)

Edited Transcript

(This is an experimental AI edited transcript.)

Welcome back to the Econ Dev Show. Today we're here with Ken Chapa. He is the Economic Development and Tourism Director for the City of Avondale, Arizona. Ken, welcome to the show.

Ken Chapa: Thanks for having me, Dane. It's going to be fun being here.

Dane Carlson: Absolutely. So, Avondale, Arizona. I only know where this is because I have relatives that live right next door. What is it, Chandler or something? I can't remember. Maybe I'm totally wrong. But isn't that right next to Avondale?

Ken Chapa: So, Chandler's on the other side of the Valley, Phoenix metro area.

Dane Carlson: What's the city that's just to the west of Avondale?

Ken Chapa: Goodyear.

Dane Carlson: Goodyear. I have relatives that also live in Goodyear. I knew it was one of those.

Gotcha. So tell us about Avondale. What exactly is it? I'm assuming it's a suburb, but is that not the case?

Ken Chapa: We're definitely part of the West Valley metro area of the Phoenix Valley. We're about 45, 46 square miles, with about 98,000 people. It's one of those communities that's been growing and blossoming over the past few years. When I came on about four and a half years ago, being a smaller community in the Phoenix Metro area, my primary goal was to make sure that we stood out, that we made ourselves a little bit different than everybody else. That's been our mission. I have a great leadership team, a great mayor and council, and an awesome team that's really been helpful in achieving those goals.

Dane Carlson: That's fantastic. So how do you stand out? How does that even work?

Ken Chapa: When you go to Avondale, you made a comment earlier about, "Here's what I know about Avondale. You're next door to Goodyear." That's usually the first thing I hear. Or I hear, "You're the home of the NASCAR track."

Ken Chapa: So, with that in mind, we needed to find our own identity. We started focusing on the unique aspects of Avondale. We have a very young population with a median age of about 30, which is one of the youngest in the region. We leveraged that by focusing on amenities and developments that cater to younger families and professionals. For example, we've been investing heavily in parks, recreation, and mixed-use developments that offer a live-work-play environment. We also place a strong emphasis on education and have great partnerships with local schools and universities.

Dane Carlson: That's interesting. What kind of projects have you been working on recently?

Ken Chapa: One of our big initiatives has been the development of the Avondale City Center. This project is designed to create a vibrant downtown area with retail, dining, office space, and residential options. It's aimed at creating a central hub for our community. We're also working on several transportation projects to improve connectivity and make it easier for people to get around. Another major focus has been on attracting healthcare and technology companies to diversify our economic base.

Dane Carlson: That sounds like a lot of exciting developments. How has the community responded to these changes?

Ken Chapa: The community response has been overwhelmingly positive. People are excited to see new amenities and opportunities coming to Avondale. We've worked hard to engage with residents and get their input on projects, which has helped build a sense of ownership and pride in the community. We've also seen a lot of interest from businesses looking to relocate or expand in Avondale, which is a great sign that we're on the right track.

Dane Carlson: That's great to hear. What do you see as the biggest challenges for Avondale moving forward?

Ken Chapa: One of the biggest challenges is managing growth in a way that's sustainable and maintains the quality of life for our residents. We want to ensure that as we grow, we're doing so in a way that supports our community and preserves the things that make Avondale special. Another challenge is staying competitive in attracting businesses and talent. We need to continue to innovate and find ways to stand out in a crowded market.

Dane Carlson: Absolutely. It sounds like you have a solid plan in place. Any final thoughts or advice for other economic developers out there?

Ken Chapa: My advice would be to really listen to your community and be willing to adapt. What works in one place might not work in another, so it's important to tailor your approach to the unique needs and strengths of your area. Also, focus on building strong partnerships. Economic development is a team effort, and having the support of local businesses, schools, and residents makes a huge difference.

Dane Carlson: Great advice. Thank you so much for joining us today, Ken. It's been a pleasure talking with you.

Ken Chapa: Thank you, Dane. It's been great to be here.

Special Guest: Ken Chapa.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

132: Championing Rural Economic Development with Lorie Vincent and Stand Up Rural America

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Lorie Vincent, the founder of the Stand Up Rural America Summit, an innovative program aimed at empowering rural communities through economic development.

Lorie Vincent shares her journey and passion for rural economic development, spanning over 34 years and involving work with approximately 350 rural communities. She explains the inception of Stand Up Rural America, a unique summit designed to bring together rural trailblazers and change makers. Unlike traditional associations or memberships, this event is open to everyone, aiming to foster collaboration and provide actionable insights that attendees can implement in their communities immediately.

Throughout the conversation, Lorie emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in rural economic development. She discusses her extensive experience and involvement in state associations and organizations such as IEDC and SEDC, which inspired her to create an event specifically tailored to rural America. Her goal is to share the innovative and impactful work being done in these communities, providing inspiration, tools, and strategies to drive positive change.

Lorie also highlights the importance of bringing together diverse voices and experiences to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities. By showcasing successful initiatives and offering practical solutions, Stand Up Rural America aims to elevate rural economic developers and community developers, helping them create immediate and lasting impact in their regions.

Actionable Insights for Economic Developers:

Promote Community Collaboration: Foster collaboration among local stakeholders to leverage collective resources and knowledge for economic development.
Share Success Stories: Highlight successful initiatives from other rural communities to inspire and guide local development efforts.
Provide Practical Tools: Equip community developers with practical tools and strategies that can be implemented immediately to drive economic growth.
Engage Diverse Voices: Involve a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and inclusive economic development planning.4
Focus on Immediate Impact: Prioritize initiatives that can deliver quick wins and immediate benefits to the community, building momentum for long-term projects.
Leverage State and National Resources: Utilize resources and support from state associations and national organizations to enhance local economic development efforts.
Encourage Innovation: Support innovative approaches and creative solutions to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities.
Facilitate Knowledge Sharing: Create platforms for knowledge sharing and networking among rural economic developers to foster continuous learning and improvement.
Empower Local Leaders: Empower local leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to drive economic development and inspire their communities.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in rural economic development to ensure your strategies are effective and relevant.

By championing these principles and leveraging the insights from Stand Up Rural America, rural economic developers can drive significant and sustainable growth in their communities.

Other Sponsors

🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now) and sponsors: EDOiQ, ResearchFDI, The PACE Group, and SiteHunt. (Become a sponsor.)

Special Guest: Lorie Vincent.

Links:

131: Economic Analytics Made Easy: Eric Trevan's Innovative Approach

Dane Carlson — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviewed Eric Trevan, PhD, an investor, economist, and business and the President and CEO of aLocal Solutions an AI marketing and economic analytics platform.

Their conversation dives into Eric’s extensive experience and innovative approach to economic development.

Eric shares how his career evolved from being a planning director in Southeast North Carolina to his current role, emphasizing the importance of transparency and parity in economic data. He discusses the inception of his AI platform aimed at creating equitable economic opportunities by automating and providing affordable solutions for cities of all sizes.

Throughout the discussion, Eric highlights the significance of objective and comprehensive data in decision-making, especially for local governments and economic developers who often operate with limited resources compared to large developers. He illustrates how his platform, aLocal, aggregates and analyzes vast datasets to offer predictive analytics, enabling communities to make informed decisions about economic initiatives.

The conversation also covers the evolution of aLocal from its conceptualization in 2002 to its formal establishment in 2019. Eric recounts the journey, including his academic pursuits and various leadership roles that contributed to his understanding of economic dynamics. He stresses the role of AI in leveling the playing field for smaller communities and fostering data equity, sovereignty, and diplomacy.

Eric elaborates on the platform’s capabilities, such as forecasting market demand, economic impact, and financial health at granular levels, down to zip codes. He also touches on the importance of community involvement and stake

Sponsor

Sitehunt is Dane's AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database and respond to RFIs. Request a demo.

Actionable Insights for Economic Developers

Leverage AI for Data Equity: Use AI-driven platforms to automate and provide affordable economic data solutions, ensuring all cities, regardless of size, have access to high-quality data for informed decision-making.
Focus on Transparency and Objectivity: Ensure that all economic development decisions are based on transparent and objective data, reducing bias and building trust within the community and with stakeholders.
Utilize Predictive Analytics: Employ predictive analytics to forecast market demand, economic impact, and financial health, helping to guide investment and development decisions with greater accuracy.
Conduct Comprehensive Market Analyses: Regularly perform market analyses to identify industry demands, economic leakages, and financial health at a granular level, down to specific zip codes.
Engage in Stakeholder Meetings: Actively participate in and facilitate stakeholder meetings to gather community input and ensure that development projects align with local needs and priorities.
Support Data Sovereignty: Encourage communities to take ownership of their data, allowing for more accurate and relevant local economic models and better-informed decision-making processes.
Implement Customizable Solutions: Offer customizable economic development solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs and priorities of different communities, whether they require detailed market studies or broad economic impact assessments.
Foster Collaboration Across Jurisdictions: Promote intergovernmental and inter-jurisdictional collaboration to leverage shared resources and data, maximizing the impact of economic development initiatives.
Invest in Workforce Development: Prioritize workforce development initiatives to ensure that local populations have the skills needed to support new and existing industries, fostering sustainable economic growth.
Innovate and Adapt: Stay agile and open to new technologies and methodologies in economic development, continuously seeking out innovative solutions that can address long-standing challenges and drive positive community outcomes.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now) and sponsors: EDOiQ, ResearchFDI, The PACE Group, and SiteHunt. (Become a sponsor.)

Special Guest: Eric Trevan.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

130: Talking Economic Development in Alabama with Greg Canfield

Dane Carlson — Mon, 27 May 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Greg Canfield, who currently serves as the Managing Director of Economic Development at Burr & Forman. Greg previously served 12 years as Secretary of Commerce for the state of Alabama. Their conversation covers Greg's career journey, and his take on the complexities of economic development.

Greg shares how he transitioned from local politics, serving as the president of a city council, to becoming the head of Alabama’s Department of Commerce. He highlights the importance of building strong relationships, understanding the needs of businesses, and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth. Greg emphasizes the significance of adapting to changing circumstances, especially in the context of the global pandemic, which has forced many economic developers to rethink their strategies and approaches.

The discussion also touches on the challenges Greg faced during his tenure, such as the global economic downturn, and how quick decision-making and consultation with influential figures helped him navigate these obstacles. Additionally, Greg provides insights into the future of economic development, stressing the need for resilience, digital infrastructure, and workforce development.

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Additionally: The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now) and sponsors: join now, join now, join now, and join now. (join now.).

Special Guest: Greg Canfield.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

129: Supporting Spanish-Speaking Entrepreneurs with Amber Tarrac

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 May 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Amber Tarrac, CEO of Founder Fuego.

The discussion centered on the mission and activities of Founder Fuego, a company dedicated to empowering Spanish-speaking and diverse entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to succeed. Amber shared insights into her transition from nearly 20 years in the public sector in economic development and workforce development to launching Founder Fuego.

The conversation highlighted Founder Fuego's innovative approach to inclusion and empowerment, focusing on their Founder Fuel newsletter, which offers weekly content with a unique Spanglish twist. This newsletter provides valuable information on funding opportunities, diverse founder stories, and essential business updates.

Amber also discussed the importance of providing bilingual resources and workshops to better serve Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs, who often feel left out of traditional economic development ecosystems. By meeting these entrepreneurs where they are, both culturally and linguistically, Founder Fuego builds trust and credibility, fostering greater engagement and participation.

Additionally, Amber emphasized the value of community and network building, leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn to enhance visibility and connections. She shared her vision for expanding Founder Fuego's impact, starting with key regions like Miami and Southern California, and the significance of cultural inclusion in economic development.

Amber's journey and the mission of Founder Fuego underscore the critical role of inclusive support in helping diverse entrepreneurs thrive, ultimately contributing to stronger and more resilient communities.

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Special Guest: Amber Tarrac.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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128: Getting Radically Rural with Julianna Dodson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 May 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show host Dane Carlson interviewed Julianna Dodson, the Deputy Executive Director at the Hannah Grimes Center for Entrepreneurship in Keene, New Hampshire, and the director of Radically Rural.

The discussion revolved around the origins and work of the Hannah Grime Center for Entrepreneurship, the national programming called Radically Rural, and their innovative approach to community development, including hosting conferences and events in unique locations to foster collaboration and innovation.

The conversation also delved into the concept of reweaving social fabric and the importance of genuine connection and communication in communities. Julianna shared her background and how she got involved in this field, highlighting the impact and opportunities for learning and engagement through the programs offered by Radically Rural.

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Special Guest: Julianna Dodson.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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127: Entrepreneurship-Led Economic Development: A Conversation with Rob Williams of SourceLink

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 May 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Rob Williams, director of SourceLink, a not-for-profit organization that collaborates with economic development agencies to promote entrepreneurial-led economic growth. Rob details SourceLink's origins in 2003 in Kansas City, Missouri, where it began as an initiative to better connect local entrepreneurs to resources, evolving into a significant player in fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems across the U.S. He discusses the early challenges of advocating for entrepreneurship in economic development, the importance of tailored community strategies, and practical steps communities can take to engage and support local entrepreneurs. Rob emphasizes the evolving understanding and importance of entrepreneurship in economic development, sharing insights from his extensive experience and the impact of SourceLink's work in various communities.

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Special Guest: Rob Williams.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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126: 1Berkshire's Wraparound Approach to Economic Development with Ben Lamb

Dane Carlson — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson engages with Ben Lamb, Vice President of Economic Development at 1Berkshire in Massachusetts, to unravel the synergistic blend of economic growth and tourism in the Berkshires. Ben illuminates the unique approach of integrating cultural and economic vibrancy within a rural context, underlining the strategic application of 'wraparound economic development.' This concept not only aims at job creation and business enhancement but also keenly addresses broader community needs, including housing and transit, thus fostering a holistic regional development.

The discussion ventures into the evolving demographics and economic shifts in the Berkshires, emphasizing post-pandemic transformations and the region's increasing diversity. Ben underscores the significance of fostering connectivity and collaborative efforts across geographic and sectoral boundaries, positioning the Berkshires as a pivotal hub for innovation and cultural richness in the Northeast. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for economic developers and community strategists alike, offering profound lessons on leveraging adaptability, collaboration, and community-centric approaches to catalyze sustainable regional prosperity.

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Special Guest: Ben Lamb.

Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

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125: Beyond Numbers: The Rise in Productivity Shapes Our World

Dane Carlson — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:15:00 -0500

In today's episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane dives into the resurgence of labor productivity growth in the US, marking an end to years of standstill. This isn't just economic jargon; it's about how these changes affect our daily lives, enhancing our overall quality of life. There's a compelling narrative unfolding, reminiscent of the productivity leaps we saw in the 1990s. Let's explore what this means for us today and uncover the parallels and lessons from that transformative era.

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124: Talking About Sitehunt

Dane Carlson — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:15:00 -0500

Hey there! I know it's been a while since you've heard from me — I've been deep in the trenches working on something special. Let me introduce you to Sitehunt: it's my latest creation, designed with a pinch of AI magic to revolutionize how economic developers gather property data. It's more than just a tool; it's your new partner in making well-informed decisions and speeding up the whole site selection process, all to help you nail those RFI responses and get ahead in your projects. I made it with you in mind, hoping it'll make a big difference in your work. Excited to see what you think!

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Sponsored By:

Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects. Sitehunt gives economic developers an AI-powered property database and instant RFI responses. Schedule a demo today!

Links:

Sitehunt

123: Startups and Corporates: Bridging the Gap with Adam Berk

Dane Carlson — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Adam Berk, co-author of "Startup Program Design," to explore the nuances of creating successful partnerships between startups and corporates. Berk delves into the challenges and opportunities in these collaborations, providing practical advice on how to design effective startup programs. His approach emphasizes the importance of mutual understanding, strategic alignment, and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and growth for both startups and established companies.

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Special Guest: Adam Berk.

Links:

122: Tax Increment Financing with Emily Blaylock (Encore)

Dane Carlson — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0600

In this encore episode from 2022, Dane talks with Emily Blaylock, Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer for Northwest Bank about Tax Increment Financing (TIF). Northwest Bank & Trust Company is an entrepreneurial bank that has built an Economic Development Division to help developers and municipalities get projects done around the US. They utilize Tax Increment Financing incentives designated from the municipalities to give developers funds upfront. These funds can be used to provide gap equity, expansion of existing sites, investment in other projects, working capital needs, or tenant improvements. Currently, they have completed projects in 8 states and over $400 million in funding. Their team has over 100 years of combined education in economic development and banking to help structure these loans.

Update: Since this episode originally aired, Emily is now the CEO of Untamed Equity, a company dedicated to bridging the gap between development projects and the equity needed to complete them.

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Special Guest: Emily Blaylock.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

121: Beyond Traditional Education: Nate Clayberg's Vision for Tomorrow's Workforce

Dane Carlson — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane talks with Nate Clayberg CEcD.

Nate Clayberg's approach to education is all about getting students ready for a future job market, including careers that might not even exist yet. With his varied experience in fields like broadcasting, sports, and economic development, Clayberg sees the importance of changing the way education is delivered. He suggests moving away from the traditional classroom focus and instead, developing skills that are versatile and crucial for a wide range of future jobs.

Clayberg emphasizes starting career exploration early. He believes in exposing students to a variety of job options, especially those in their local areas, to expand their understanding of possible career paths. This is vital in connecting what they learn in school to real-world scenarios. He advocates for an education that involves hands-on, project-based learning, where students work on actual problems faced by businesses. This method makes learning more relevant and interesting.

A crucial aspect of Clayberg's idea is to bridge the gap between the education system and the evolving job market. He highlights the role of economic developers in bringing together schools and local businesses. This collaboration aims to create educational models that are in tune with both current and future job market requirements. It's about ensuring that the education system works closely with businesses and industry experts to make learning more dynamic and directly applicable to the workforce needs of tomorrow.

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Special Guest: Nate Clayberg.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

Nate Clayberg | LinkedIn
NateClayberg.com
@NateClayberg / X
Student Professional Study Programs - CAPS Network
The Network Podcast: Episode 7 - It's A Life Thing — Corey travels to Cedar Falls, IA to talk with Ethan Wiechmann and Nate Clayberg. Amid a busy CAPS visit, Corey, Ethan and Nate discuss the strategic partnerships that have helped launch CF CAPS to a position of success. Education for life is showcased as Nate and Ethan share students' stories from the CAPS program, high ed, and in the working world.
Choosing the Life You Want, Not Just the Job - 2022 Iowa CAPS Summit — On November 7, 2022, Nate Clayberg presented to nearly 40 instructors, counselors, and school administrators about taking CAPS (Center for Advanced Professional Studies) student associates from being prepared for their purpose to creating the Pathway to Purpose.
Economic Development and Education with Nate Clayberg - YouTube — Nate Clayberg helps students to envision their future so that they can navigate a pathway to purposeful life beyond education. Through the Career Adventure Academy, Cedar Valley CAPS and host of the That's a Job? Podcast
That's a Job? Podcast with Nate Clayberg
From Come Rain or Shine Podcast: Preparing Youth for the Future — On this episode of Come Rain or Shine, Nate Clayberg, Founder of Career Adventure Academy, joins the show to discuss his role as a student mentor and career coach.

120: Empowering Young Innovators in Indiana: The Story of the STARTedUP Foundation with Don Wettrick

Dane Carlson — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:15:00 -0600

STARTedUP Foundation, founded by former teacher Don Wettrick, is reshaping the educational experience in Indiana by introducing students to entrepreneurship. This initiative provides a unique platform where students engage in real-world problem-solving, develop business ideas, and receive mentorship from industry experts. The foundation hosts annual competitions where students pitch their ideas, fostering a new generation of innovators who are equipped to tackle real-world challenges through creative solutions.

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Special Guest: Don Wettrick.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

Don Wettrick | LinkedIn
STARTedUP Foundation
Innovate WithIN — STARTedUP Foundation
Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation and Taking 20% Time to the Next Level by Don Wettrick
An Entrepreneurial Way of Being: Finding Ikigai Through Innovation | Don Wettrick | TEDxPurdueU — Don Wettrick is a high school teacher in Noblesville, Indiana with a passion for helping people explore their passion outside of their everyday curriculum. He started an after-school entrepreneurship program called StartEdUp that provides a platform for students and teachers to actively change education through innovation and entrepreneurship in the classroom. Don Wettrick is the founder of The STARTedUP Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to foster innovation and entrepreneurship for youth. He is also the author of “Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation” and host of the "STARTedUP” podcast. Don is known for his award-winning work as a middle school and high school teacher; educational and innovation consultant; and educational speaker.
Innovation Specialist on Unlearning - Don Wettrick — Youtube
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink
Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? by Seth Godin

119: From Sick Cities to Thriving Communities with Jeff Siegler

Dane Carlson — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane and Jeff Siegler, author of "Your City is Sick" and a seasoned consultant in civic pride, delves into strategies for reviving struggling communities. Drawing from his extensive experience in urban planning and Main Street revitalization, he underscores the necessity of long-term, community-driven efforts, highlighting the pitfalls of apathy and external quick fixes. Siegler advocates for small, consistent actions rooted in higher standards, analogous to personal health practices, to foster community trust, connection, and pride.

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Special Guest: Jeff Siegler.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

118: Wilkesboro Unveiled: A Deep Dive into Economic Evolution with LeeAnn Nixon

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson converses with LeeAnn Nixon, President of Wilkes Economic Development, about the diverse economic landscape of Wilkesboro, North Carolina.

Nixon discusses the area's key industries, including building and food and beverage, its rich agricultural heritage producing country ham and apple cider, and the growing emphasis on technology and cybersecurity.

The episode offers a comprehensive view of Wilkesboro's efforts to adapt to changing economic trends and the importance of community collaboration for sustainable development.

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Special Guest: LeeAnn Nixon.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

117: The Art of Starting Up: David Ponraj's Vision for Easier Entrepreneurship

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0600

David Ponraj, founder and CEO of Economic Impact Catalyst shares insights on the difficulties of starting a business, highlighting the need for a variety of skills such as finance, sales, and team management. He reflects on his journey in creating a venture that evolved from a simple platform to a sophisticated service blending technology and strategic consulting, akin to Salesforce and McKinsey & Company. Ponraj emphasizes the potential of leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning in economic development, offering services to a diverse range of clients from large states to small communities.

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Special Guest: David Ponraj.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

116: From English Roots to Economic Fruits: Thomas Cox's Journey Economic Development in Sauk County

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane delves into Thomas Cox's inspiring story, tracing his roots from England to his pivotal role as the Executive Director of the Sauk County Development Corporation in Wisconsin. Thomas details his strategic vision for the county, emphasizing the importance of trusted partnerships, education, upskilling, and community-responsible development. He sheds light on tackling the county's critical needs such as housing, childcare, and workforce development, and discusses his philosophy on achieving excellence in economic development. Through his commitment to enhancing economic vibrancy and his approach to transitioning the organization to private funding for greater community engagement, Thomas Cox is not just leading development initiatives but is passionately working to improve the lives of individuals across communities.

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Special Guest: Thomas Cox.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

115: Change from Within: Deb Brown's Blueprint for Rural Prosperity

Dane Carlson — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show podcast Deb Brown, co-founder of SaveYour.Town, talks about her work in rural community and economic development. She explains how inclusive community engagement through activities like vacant building tours and seeking input from all community members, including youth, can generate excitement and ideas. Deb also emphasizes the power of testing small ideas, gathering community involvement, and taking small steps to build momentum. Her approach focuses on positivity, storytelling, and empowering community members to create grassroots change.

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Special Guest: Deb Brown.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

Tour of Empty Buildings | Deb Brown | TEDxBrookings - YouTube — Communities of any size have the potential to turn empty spaces into vibrant hubs. In this innovative talk, Deb Brown shares how a tour of empty buildings have transformed her community and how similar efforts can be used in our own communities.
Deb Brown from SaveYour.Town and Mayor Sharon Frerichs talk about Akron, Iowa - YouTube — Deb was in Akron two years ago for an Embedded Community Experience. Watch as Sharon and Deb discuss all the wonderful things that have occurred since that visit. Attitude in town kicked off all the small steps and projects started by lots of people.
Developing Resilient Communities Idea Friendly Method Limestone Bluffs RCD - YouTube
#SMTULSA SIX STEPS TO WORKING BIGGER with Deb Brown - YouTube
Deb & Becky Keynote End of Rural X - YouTube
Workspace Discussion - How Do You Start One? - YouTube
Innovative Rural Business Models - YouTube
Five Cheap Downtown Placemaking Ideas - Building Possibility
Christmas tree lights don't always have to be matchy matchy in your downtown - Building Possibility
Do we rebuild? - Building Possibility
Thursday with Townsel in Letcher County, KY - Building Possibility
Advice to those working in small towns - Building Possibility
Small Towns or Big Cities? - Building Possibility
Successful economic development involves the arts - Building Possibility
3 Ways to Make Small Towns Successful: Get the practical steps to Beautification, Good Leaders and Keeping Your Youth - Building Possibility
Are you living in a small town? - Building Possibility
East Kentucky Jackson County and Grayson, KY - Onsite visit wrap up by Deb Brown of SaveYour.Town - YouTube
Iowa Ideas In-Depth: New Idea to action - YouTube
Small Town Specialist - YouTube
2021 WRP Summit IDEA FRIENDLY TOWN - YouTube

114: Economic Gardening: Nurturing Local Businesses for Community Growth with Chris Gibbons

Dane Carlson — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0500

Chris Gibbons, creator of the economic gardening concept, explains how he pioneered the idea in Littleton, Colorado in the 1980s to help local companies create jobs after major layoffs. Economic gardening focuses on providing research and insights to growing stage two companies, not basic business assistance. Gibbons discusses the sales window concept they use to efficiently find the best prospects, and their move into leveraging AI like ChatGPT. He also shares his passion for helping communities and people prosper through economic development.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Chris Gibbons.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

Chris Gibbons | LinkedIn
Economic Gardening Book — “Economic Gardening” is a book that covers the history and background of the original “grow your own” economic development program in Littleton, Colorado. The book also include chapters on the program as it is run today by the National Center for Economic Gardening, as well as a complete listing of the principles, tools and analytical techniques used in high fidelity programs. Part II of the book is called “An Amateur’s Observations on the Economy” and includes a collection of unusual insights into the economy derived from 30 years of work in Economic Gardening.
National Center for Economic Gardening
Training & Certification - National Center for Economic Gardening
The Entrepreneurial Revolution in Economic Development — The 35-year history of economic gardening and related programs.
Chris Gibbons: This Is How You Grow a Local Economy
The Economic Gardener: An interview with Chris Gibbons - Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City
To Grow Jobs at Existing Companies, Focus on Stage Two

113: Encore: The Secrets of Economic Development with Novelist and Econ Dev Don Erwin

Dane Carlson — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, host Dane Carlson interviews Don Erwin, author of the economic development thriller novel "Buffalo Hunting in Alabama." Erwin wrote the novel to make economic development more relatable and exciting to the general public, who often have negative perceptions of the industry.

The book follows a protagonist who reluctantly returns to Alabama to work in economic development, getting involved in high-stakes mega projects and talent recruitment. Erwin incorporates real economic data about Alabama to ground the fictional story in reality. He also includes insider knowledge and "secrets" of proactive economic development strategy like identifying growing companies before they have an expansion project.

Erwin and Carlson have an in-depth discussion about the writing process, promoting the unique novel, and the benefits of producing an audiobook version. Carlson compliments Erwin for innovating within a little-known genre and exposing more people to the positive impacts of economic development.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Don Erwin.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

DonErwin.net
Economic Development By The Book on Vimeo — Economic Development Assoc. of Alabama Summer Conference -- July 27th
Review: Buffalo Hunting in Alabama by Don Erwin - Birmingham Business Journal
Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel — What if economic development was a cross between Jurassic Park, James Bond and Jack Reacher?
(Audible Audiobook) Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel
(Paperback) Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel
(Kindle eBook) Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel

112: Encore: How to Save Your Downtown with Small-Scale Manufacturing with Ilana Preuss

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0500

What's your downtown like?

As a county economic developer, I can look out over several different cities, all with a diverse array of downtowns:

Some are vibrant, beautiful tourist destinations.

Others are transitioning and improving with city dollars and commercial reinvestment into new stores, new facades, new lighting, new life.

Some suburban cities, to their shame, don't even really have downtowns. Unfortunately, I live in a town like that.

But still, others are shells of their former selves; Empty storefronts with faded signs and broken sidewalks -- places that you don't go after dark -- not because they're dangerous per se, but because there's no reason to.

Our guest today, hopes to change that. Ilana Preuss and her book Recast Your City: How to Save Your Downtown with Small-Scale Manufacturing offer an excellent primer on how to rebuild your downtown without relying on outsiders to bring their businesses to your community.

Ilana's an expert. She led the technical assistance program at the U.S. EPA Smart Growth Program and was the Vice President & Chief of Staff at Smart Growth America. Her firm Recast City, works with local leaders to help create great places.

Enjoy the show, and the book.

(Originally aired June 2021)

---

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Ilana Preuss.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

111: The Great Outdoors as an Economic Engine with Noah Wilson and Bradley Spiegel

Dane Carlson — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In the this episode of the Econ Dev Show podcast, host Dane Carlson shares an insightful conversation with Noah Wilson of Mountain BizWorks and Bradley Spiegel from the Made By Mountains Partnership, delving into the outdoor recreation economy in Western North Carolina. Together, they explore the diverse elements of the outdoor economy supply chain encompassing manufacturing, guiding services, retail, and infrastructure planning, elucidating how each component significantly contributes to the region's vibrant outdoor recreation ecosystem.

Noah unfolds the narrative of how the Western North Carolina's Outdoor Economy Conference came to fruition, under the theme "Connecting the Ecosystem." This annual convergence is highlighted as a crucial nexus for stakeholders across the outdoor recreation industry, fostering networking and the exchange of best practices.

Noah delineates the four thematic tracks for this year’s conference, aimed at cultivating vibrant communities, bolstering outdoor businesses, spearheading inclusive coalitions, and envisioning the future of the outdoor industry. The discussion also touches on Thomas Salley's podcast, where both the Outdoor Economy Conference and the Building Outdoor Communities program were mentioned, making a cool connection between these initiatives.

Shifting focus, Bradley sheds light on the Building Outdoor Communities program, a 7-month capacity-building initiative powered by an ARC grant. This program, as Bradley articulates, is aiding communities in meticulously assessing their outdoor recreation assets and devising sustainable development plans. They delve into strategies to adeptly manage the escalation in tourism and amenity migration alongside the growth of outdoor recreation.

The conversation underscores investing in the outdoor economy as a potent strategy to attain triple bottom line goals — economic development, social equity, and environmental stewardship. The nuanced discussion offers a comprehensive outlook on the opportunities and challenges entailed, providing invaluable insights for communities and stakeholders invested in this dynamic sector.

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Special Guests: Bradley Spiegel and Noah Wilson.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

110: Counting What Counts: A Data-Backed Path to Community Revival with Jon Maynard

Dane Carlson — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0500

Jon Maynard has worked in economic development for over 15 years. In that time, he's come to believe that the traditional model of recruiting big employers doesn't work well for most small towns. Instead, he advocates for what he calls "tropical fish" economic development - building a vibrant community "reef" that will naturally attract residents, entrepreneurs and small businesses.

The foundation of Maynard's approach is caring deeply about the town and its people. A declining "give a damn factor," seen in things like crumbling infrastructure, leads to a downward spiral. The data tells the story - population loss, falling labor force, decreasing retail sales all stem from neglecting quality of place and opportunity. Maynard helps towns turn the tide by focusing economic development inward. This means supporting local entrepreneurs, partnering with schools, and collaborating with arts groups.

Ultimately, Maynard wants to spread the word that people-centered development is possible everywhere. He launched a consulting firm, Infinite Sequence Economics, to provide affordable expertise to communities trying to take a new path. His goal is to share ideas, find gaps, and hold towns accountable for real change.

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Special Guest: Jon Maynard.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

109: Recruiting the Best Economic Developers with Anthony Michelic

Dane Carlson — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0500

Anthony Michelic, President and CEO of The Pace Group executive recruiting firm, joins Dane on the the show in this, the first in-person episode the Econ Dev Show, joins the show to discuss how his firm works, trends in the economic development and chamber executive job market, advice for job seekers and career developers in the industry, changes he has seen since the pandemic, and the importance of properly aligning incentives between candidates, hiring organizations, and recruiters.

Topics covered include: building relationships in the industry, personality and culture fit versus credentials, being open and specific with recruiters about ideal opportunities, developing broad knowledge as a generalist, adopting a global perspective, the evolving role of economic developers, increased workplace flexibility trends, and focusing on fit and seizing the right opportunities. Anthony provides an insightful recruiter's perspective on the economic development job market and practical tips for career success.

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Special Guest: Anthony Michelic.

Links:

108: Seeding Entrepreneurial Ecosystems With Beth Zimmer

Dane Carlson — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane welcome Beth Zimmer, Program Manager with the Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Building Leadership Project. Beth takes us on a journey through her five-year endeavor to cultivate a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Pennsylvania. From deep-diving into cultural assessments to executing awareness campaigns, her comprehensive approach sought to uplift the state's entrepreneurial spirit.

Beth delves into the intricate components that make up an entrepreneurial ecosystem, such as mentorship programs, networking events, and targeted funding initiatives. She underscores the importance of these elements in supporting both nascent and established entrepreneurs.

However, it's not all smooth sailing; Beth shares candid insights into how shifting political landscapes led to an abrupt halt to the program, offering lessons on the fragility of such initiatives in the face of political headwinds.

The episode wraps up with a thoughtful discussion on the imperative for economic developers to champion inclusive entrepreneurship. According to Beth, this is as crucial as traditional business retention efforts and requires conscientious planning and action.

Tune in for a comprehensive look at the highs and lows of ecosystem building, and walk away with actionable insights on how to foster entrepreneurial spirit in your community.

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Special Guest: Beth Zimmer.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

107: Meet Joe Collins: The First Subscriber to the Econ Dev Show

Dane Carlson — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Joe Collins, economic development director for Norwood, MA, shares how his dual role for the town and municipal electric utility gives him an advantage in supporting local businesses. He discusses relationship building with groups like the chamber, how he sources ideas from podcasts and newsletters, and tools he uses like Apollo.io to find contact information.

Joe also learns he was the very first subscriber to Dane's newsletter.

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Special Guest: Joe Collins.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

106: The First Month in the ED Director's Chair with Jamie Beasley

Dane Carlson — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Jamie Beasley talks with Dane Carlson about leaving law and virtual assistance to pursue a masters in economic development, the challenges of finding an entry-level job with her advanced degree, and her first month leading a rural chamber of commerce in Oklahoma. She provides tips on organization and discusses the potential for virtual assistants in economic development.

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Special Guest: Jamie Beasley.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

105: Fusing Memes, AI, and Economic Development in Georgia With Ben McDaniel

Dane Carlson — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Ben McDaniel, the director for the Barrow Brazelton Joint Economic Development Authority in Georgia, shares how he uses memes and AI tools like ChatGPT to market his community in creative ways. McDaniel says he leans into his authentic self on platforms like LinkedIn, making funny or interesting memes that get noticed by site selectors and project managers. He also uses ChatGPT to help with common economic development tasks like crafting RFI responses and offer letters. McDaniel believes AI will transform the field and is already introducing it to his 10-year-old daughter.

Overall, the episode explores how economic developers big and small can tap into new technologies and creative marketing to share their community's story. McDaniel provides an interesting case study in embracing innovation while staying true to your roots.

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Special Guest: Ben Nelson.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

104: Nurturing the Next Generation: Dr. Chad Miller's Vision for Economic Development's Future

Dane Carlson — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:15:00 -0500

Delve into the multifaceted world of economic development with Dane Carlson as he engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Chad Miller, the Graduate Coordinator for the Economic Development Master's program at the University of Southern Mississippi. In this episode, Miller paints a vivid picture of the ever-evolving landscape of economic development, tracing its roots from basic infrastructural necessities in developing nations to the data-driven approaches prevalent in developed countries like the US, Canada, Europe, and Mexico. As they navigate the delicate interplay between the art and science of the profession, Miller underscores the significance of hands-on, technical skills that the program imbues its students with, preparing them for real-world challenges in the dynamic realm of economic development.

In an era where reshoring trends are gaining momentum and the focus is gradually shifting towards near-shoring to regions like Mexico and Central America, Miller provides a fresh perspective, highlighting the pressing need for diversity and the potential pivot from attracting big conglomerates to holistic community development. With an increasing emphasis on tech skills, building robust professional networks, and a rekindled focus on community development basics, the episode offers a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Furthermore, Miller's emphasis on collaboration between universities and industry practitioners paints a promising picture for the future, bridging the gap between academic prowess and practical expertise. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just embarking on your journey in economic development, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge, insights, and actionable advice.

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Special Guest: Dr. Chad Miller.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

Chad R. Miller | LinkedIn
‪Chad R. Miller‬ - ‪Google Scholar‬
Economic Development - Master's | Graduate Programs | The University of Southern Mississippi
Southern Miss Economic Development | Groups | LinkedIn
The Southern Miss Experience - YouTube
Dr. Miller on We Are Jobs Podcast — Are you interested in a Master’s degree in economic development? Or, could you use university backed research to aid in your economic development efforts?
The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-first Century: Thomas L. Friedman: 9780374292881: Amazon.com: Books

103: Zen and the Art of Rural Economic Development with Sean Adkins

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 00:15:00 -0500

Sean Adkins has over a decade of economic development experience across multiple East Coast states. He currently serves as Town Manager of St. Albans, Vermont, where he uses his econ dev background to help the small town. Adkins shares insights into the differences between robust economic development support in Virginia versus the more isolated, self-reliant approach in Vermont.

One of his most surprising projects was leading development of a childcare facility in rural Virginia, despite not having kids himself. The intensive childcare facility regulations and community resistance he encountered shows the breadth of challenges econ dev professionals take on. Adkins stresses public servants genuinely try to serve local needs, though projects often require compromise.

He also discusses his favorite book, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, and the life philosophy behind its metaphors.

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Special Guest: Sean Adkins.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

102: The Intersection of Podcasting and Economic Development with Jennifer Olson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson sits down with Jennifer Olson, Director of Business Development for the city of Marion, Illinois, discussing the impact of her podcast "Small Town, Big Business" and delving into the economic development and revitalization efforts in her town. They discuss the challenges and rewards of running a successful podcast, the importance of small businesses in rural communities, and the significance of tourism in Marion.

The episode begins with an insightful discussion about the "Small Town, Big Business" podcast, co-hosted by Jennifer Olson. Exploring the triumphs and tribulations of small businesses in rural areas, the podcast serves as a platform to inspire others towards entrepreneurship. Jennifer talks about the importance of consistency in releasing episodes, the impact of the podcast's storytelling on weaving deeper connections between local businesses and the community, and the often underestimated potency of mentorship in entrepreneurial success.

Diving deeper, Dane and Jennifer touch on Marion's strategic position as a hub for industries like manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, and retail. Notwithstanding its relatively small population, Marion sees its size nearly doubled every day due to incoming commuters. With an upcoming jet service connecting the city to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, they articulate on the fresh wave of opportunities this development would bring. The dialogue then traverses to the extensive tourism potential of Marion, its resilient history symbolically termed "Little Eygpt," and the enduring relevance of attractions like the Shawnee National Forest and a developed wine trail.

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Special Guest: Jennifer Olson.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

101: Entrepreneurs are Transforming Economic Development with Courtney Zaugg

Dane Carlson — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this riveting episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, host Dane Carlson chats with Courtney Zaugg, an industry expert in entrepreneurship and economic development. The two kick off their conversation with an exploration into the unique mindset of entrepreneurship, particularly the necessity of adaptability and the acceptance of failure. As they delve further, the discussion uncovers the limitations and inaccessibility of traditional venture capital for the majority of startups. Courtney offers insightful solutions, emphasizing the role of local banks and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in helping startups become bankable.

The conversation also takes a turn towards economic development, where Courtney expresses optimism about the industry's evolution and advocates for systemic change, particularly in distressed and rural communities. She further discusses potential partnerships between philanthropy, economic development, and entrepreneurship, introducing 'impact funds' as an innovative funding vehicle. Courtney insists on the importance of creating a well-structured entrepreneurial ecosystem and suggests practical steps communities can take to foster this development. The episode concludes with a discussion on the evolving landscape of higher education, and a reflection on Courtney's journey in pushing for systemic change.

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Special Guest: Courtney Zaugg.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

100: Topophilia in Sacramento with Cameron Law

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane Carlson interviews Cameron Law, the executive director of the Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Sacramento. Cameron delves into the center's mission to support entrepreneurs and drive economic development in the region. He provides valuable insights into the various industries thriving in Sacramento, including food and agriculture, life sciences, and clean technology.

As a regional resource, the Carlsen Center offers programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Cameron discusses his day-to-day activities, which involve one-on-one consulting, partnership building, and running cohort programs. He shares his personal journey and the deep-rooted passion he has for making Sacramento a premier hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

The concept of "Topophilia" or love of place is explored is also explored, emphasizing the intentional building of businesses and creating opportunities within the community. Listeners gain access to valuable resources such as recommended books, organizations, and certifications related to entrepreneurship and ecosystem building.

Cameron encourages engagement and offers his support to those interested in connecting and driving entrepreneurship in their own communities.

Takeaways:

Love of place, or "Topophilia," is a powerful driver for entrepreneurs who choose to build businesses in their communities.
Sacramento is experiencing growth in industries such as food and agriculture, life sciences, and clean technology.
The Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship serves as a regional resource, supporting entrepreneurs through programs, workshops, and mentorship.
Cameron Law emphasizes the importance of intentional community building and creating opportunities within the region.

*Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! *

Special Guest: Cameron Law.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

99: Unraveling the Jones Act with Colin Grabow

Dane Carlson — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 00:15:00 -0500

Join Dane as he dives deep into the intricacies of the Jones Act with guest Colin Grabow, a research fellow at the Cato Institute’s Herbert A. Stiefel Center for Trade Policy Studies.

In this episode, we discuss the requirements and implications of the Jones Act, and how it affects the cost and efficiency of shipping within the United States. Colin provides an in-depth analysis of the Act's effects on economic development, with a particular focus on its impacts on the coastal regions of Texas. We also explore potential paths forward and solutions to mitigate the negative effects of the Act on the domestic economy.

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Special Guest: Colin Grabow.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

Colin Grabow | Cato Institute
Colin Grabow (@cpgrabow) / Twitter
Colin Grabow | LinkedIn
Fed up with High Gas Prices and Slow Amazon Deliveries? Blame These 2 Century-Old Laws That Need to Be Repealed. | Cato Institute — To avoid higher costs, many companies are forced to turn to imports.
Against the Jones Act - Truth on the Market Truth on the Market
Protectionism and the Development of the U.S. Maritime Industry | The Regulatory Review — U.S. maritime protectionism fails policy and economic goals.
Adam Smith Would Oppose the Jones Act | Cato Institute — U.S maritime policy, both for the country’s economic prosperity and national security, is crying out for a dramatic overhaul.
The Jones Act: A Burden America Can No Longer Bear | Cato Institute — How an archaic, burdensome law has been able to withstand scrutiny and persist for almost a century.
Rust Buckets: How the Jones Act Undermines U.S. Shipbuilding and National Security | Cato Institute — Policymakers must consider either major reform of the law or outright repeal.
Amazon.com: The Power of Productivity: Wealth, Poverty, and the Threat to Global Stability by William W. Lewis

98: Pawns, Kings, and Rooks: Economic Development with Karl Heck

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In today's episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, Dane unpacks the dynamic puzzle of industrial growth and community development in the charming realm of Franklin, Virginia, known for its beautiful blend of agricultural roots and emerging industries.

It's an intriguing tale that unfolds with our esteemed guest, Karl Heck, a man who knows a thing or two about economic development since he's the President and CEO of the Franklin Southampton Economic Development.

And surprise - Karl is also quite fond of chess! So, legions of listeners, prepare yourselves for a journey where economic strategies might just be delivered with a side of knight-to-e5 checkmate. Here's a spoiler - it's more fun than getting cornered by your own bishop in a chess game!

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Karl Heck.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

97: A Deep Dive into a Local Business Incubator with Lina Rugova

Dane Carlson — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 08:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane sparks an engaging conversation with Lina Rugova, the founder, and president of Emerge and Rise, a nonprofit business incubator in San Antonio, Texas. Lina provides an insider's look into the role and importance of business incubators for budding entrepreneurs and the support she provides to startups to not just survive, but thrive.

Following a compelling discussion on the incubator's unique approach to promoting entrepreneurship, the episode also explores the challenges that new entrepreneurs face while stepping into the business world, the dire need for partnerships and collaboration within cities, and the heartwarming success stories of Lina's program.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Lina Rugova.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

96: Chambers of Commerce: From Relevant to Essential

Dane Carlson — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 17:30:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson discusses the book "From Relevant to Essential: Five Key Insights for Chambers of Commerce" by Casey Steinbach.

It addresses the tension between serving individual businesses (the "me" members) and focusing on supporting the community as a whole (the "we" members).

Carlson appreciates how the author recognizes that there are different types of members in a chamber of commerce: those who join for direct benefits and those who support the community's overall development.

He appreciates Steinbach's call for a more community-oriented focus among chambers, as well as her insight into the conflicts that arise from trying to provide services to both types of members. He highly recommends the book for individuals who work within chambers of commerce or who seek to understand their evolving roles and challenges.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

95: AI in Economic Development

Dane Carlson — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson shares his experiences using the AI tool ChatGPT for economic development tasks. Built for interacting with OpenAI's models, the chatbot's capacity to understand and generate human-like text has made it a radically transformative tool. Dane talks about various applications for AI technology in economic development and compares it to other automation tools often used in economic development offices.

Dane discusses how ChatGPT can be harnessed for a range of tasks, including blog post generation, social media marketing, writing emails, summarizing texts in different styles, and analysis tasks, all without requiring any programming skills.

Additionally, Dane has created numerous videos on AI-based workflows designed to support professionals in economic development. To access them, join Econ Dev Pro.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

94: Main Street Makeover: How CO.STARTERS Trains for Economic Revival with Jose Alfaro

Dane Carlson — Mon, 15 May 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane has an in-depth conversation with Jose Alfaro, CEO of CO.STARTERS, a dynamic entrepreneurial accelerator program designed to equip creative entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and support to turn their passion into a profitable business.

Jose shared the inspiring journey of CO.STARTERS, from its beginnings in Chattanooga, Tennessee, inspired by a desire to revitalize the city and attract major corporations like Volkswagen, to its current global reach spanning over 210 cities across 24 states and multiple countries. The program, which started under a non-profit initiative, went private in 2016, broadening its horizons and allowing it to have a significant impact on a global scale.

Throughout the episode, Jose emphasized the unique approach of the CO.STARTERS program. Instead of adopting a traditional teaching methodology, CO.STARTERS is built around facilitation, with the program directors guiding participants towards their customers to validate their business ideas. This innovative approach has resulted in not only robust business formation but also organic collaborations and mergers among the participants.

Key to the CO.STARTERS model is their focus on building community. Participants are grouped into cohorts of 10 to 16 people, fostering an environment of peer-to-peer learning, collaboration, and cooperation. Jose shared fascinating anecdotes of how this peer interaction has led to the formation of successful businesses and collaborations.

The conversation also delved into the curriculum of the program, which has been designed to simplify complex business concepts and make them accessible to creative entrepreneurs who might not have a traditional business background. Beyond the curriculum, the program also serves as a front door to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, connecting graduates to a variety of resources, from the SBA to different accelerators and pitch competitions.

Jose Alfaro's passion for supporting creative entrepreneurs was evident throughout the conversation. If you're interested in the intersection of creativity and entrepreneurship, or if you're a part of a community that could benefit from a program like CO.STARTERS, this episode is not to be missed.

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Special Guest: Jose Alfaro.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

93: Alia Abbas Spills the Tea on the Importance of Small Businesses in Community Development

Dane Carlson — Mon, 08 May 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this Econ Dev Show podcast episode, Dane Carlson interviews Alia Abbas, former Economic Development Officer for the City of Toronto, who shares her insights on business continuity, the importance of small businesses in community development, and the concept of "employment lands" in Canada.

Alia emphasizes the crucial role of small and family-owned businesses as advocates and champions for their communities, and the growing trend towards sustainability and greener economies in economic development.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Alia Abbas.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

92: The Human Centered Approach to Economic Development with Larry Holt

Dane Carlson — Mon, 01 May 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this podcast episode, Dane Carlson talks with Larry Holt, the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation's Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development.

Holt shares his insights on the human-centered approach to economic development. According to Holt, economic development is all about serving the communities and providing them with opportunities that will improve their lives.

He also discusses the challenges and opportunities of economic development in California, a state with a massive population boom after World War II that has led to significant housing supply issues. He acknowledges that the birthplace of the environmental movement and taxation policies have also contributed to restrictions on new housing growth, making it difficult to keep working-class families in their homes. However, he remains optimistic about the state's concerted effort to drive new housing supply and incentivize more housing around public transportation, which will help meet California's climate goals.

Despite the challenges, Holt believes that economic development is more relevant than ever, and economic developers have a crucial role to play in driving the future of their communities. He notes that they must be larger voices for pro-housing policies, advocate for resources for workforce systems, and have a broader view of economic development beyond just attracting businesses. In closing, Holt expresses his excitement about the future of Los Angeles and California's economic development and the role he and his colleagues play in shaping their communities' future.

Special Guest: Larry Holt.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

91: Ask Dane #1: Starship Edition

Dane Carlson — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Ask Dane. Every week, you ask, and I answer. Sometimes the questions only need short answers, and other-times they require tons of research or contemplation. This issue is a little of both.

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90: Gen Z Marketing in Plain English with Kathleen McQuaid Holdridge and Jessica Packard

Dane Carlson — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0500

Kathleen McQuaid Holdridge, Jessica Packard, and Dane Carlson delve deep into the world of Generation Z, exploring their unique characteristics, values, and preferences that are shaping today's marketing landscape. Our expert guests discuss strategies for successfully marketing to this powerful demographic, including embracing authenticity, leveraging multiple platforms, and focusing on visual storytelling. They also share real-life examples of effective marketing campaigns within economic development, shedding light on how these initiatives can attract and retain businesses, entrepreneurs, and talent. Tune in and discover the keys to unlocking the immense potential of Generation Z, the next wave of consumers, workforce, and innovators.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guests: Jessica Packard and Kathleen McQuaid Holdridge.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

89: Slam Dunk Economic Development Strategies: Mark Litten's Basketball Experience Transforms Small Communities"

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this action-packed episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Mark Litten, VP of Economic Development at Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, about his transition from basketball officiating to empowering small communities. Mark shares insights on local-level involvement, the importance of marketing for smaller communities, and the potential impact of eliminating Enterprise Florida. Tune in to "Slam Dunk Economic Development Strategies" and discover how Mark Litten's basketball experience informs his transformative approach to local economic development.

In the latest episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson welcomes Mark Litten, Vice President of Economic Development at the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce in Palatka, Florida.

Mark shares his journey into economic development, starting with his roots in Ohio and Michigan before transitioning to Florida. The conversation also touches on the challenges of attracting businesses and Mark's experience as a retired basketball official.

Highlighting the importance of bringing young people into economic development, Mark emphasizes the need for extroverted individuals with strong communication skills.

Mark also discusses his preference for working in the private or non-profit sectors rather than the government. He believes there is more freedom and involvement in the local level as opposed to the state level. At the local level, they work with everything from site visits to negotiating prices, whereas at the state level, they are more focused on incentives.

He also mentions the importance of marketing, especially for smaller communities. Due to limited budgets, small communities often have to raise funds to be competitive in marketing. Economic development focused magazines such as Site Selection, Business Facilities, and Area Development are popular places to advertise, reaching a wide readership of C-Suite individuals. However, frequent ad placements and online advertising can be costly for smaller communities.

In Florida, there is a current discussion about eliminating Enterprise Florida and changing Visit Florida's tourism funding. The economic development director feels that it is shortsighted by the legislature and will create problems for attracting businesses. With the potential elimination of Enterprise Florida, he believes that there will be a shift in how leads are handled, and it will be a learning curve for many people. In response, he is increasing marketing efforts and planning to develop strategies to compete with other micropolitan communities.

This insightful episode of the Econ Dev Show provides valuable perspectives on economic development and marketing challenges, particularly for smaller communities. Mark Litten's wealth of experience and forward-thinking approach offer essential guidance for those looking to navigate the changing landscape of economic development.

As the conversation delves into critical topics such as attracting businesses, engaging young professionals, and the importance of strategic marketing, listeners are sure to benefit from the knowledge shared by both Mark and host Dane Carlson.

Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation -- tune in to the latest episode of the Econ Dev Show to hear Mark Litten's invaluable insights and practical advice. Listen now, and stay ahead in the world of economic development.

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Special Guest: Mark Litten.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

88: The Pursuit of Economic Development with Professor Todd Gabe

Dane Carlson — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Professor Todd Gabe. He is a professor of Economics at the University of Maine, author of the textbook, The Pursuit of Economic Development: Growing Good Jobs in U.S. Cities and States. He also publishes content from his classes, book, and other research on YouTube.

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Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

87: Rural Rescue: Small Town Solutions with David Thornell

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with David Thornell, the author of Small Town Solutions: An Economic Development Guide for Small Communities with BIG Dreams, and founder of Small Town Solutions Consulting. He retired after 40+ years of service to community and economic development organizations mainly in rural environments, and now provides specialized consulting.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: David Thornell.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

86: Building an Outdoor Economy with Thomas Salley

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Nationally, outdoor recreation is a $788 billion dollar industry, accounting for 2.1% of U.S. GDP and 5.2 million jobs in 2019. In North Carolina, the outdoor recreation economy accounted for 2 percent ($12.1 billion) of the state GDP and created 151,661 jobs in the state.

Thomas Salley, the director of tourism for the City of Wilkesboro, North Carolina knows this all too well. He's an integral part of a team working to create a community-led vision and 15-year roadmap to grow the outdoor economy and encourage active living in Wilkes County.

The group is focusing on the planning and development of outdoor recreation infrastructure projects such as trails, greenways, destination-quality parks, attractive downtowns, and the creation of multi-use public spaces suitable for major events and festivals. These projects contribute significantly to the quality of life for local residents, help grow small businesses, and attract visitors.

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Special Guest: Thomas Salley.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

85: Dane Talks to Himself... On Video

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0600

Dane wants to start producing video content for the Econ Dev Show Podcast, but first, he must get comfortable on camera. And the best way that he's found to get over his fear of almost anything is to just do it!

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Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

84: A 20 Minute Business Attraction Strategy with Tom Wengler

Dane Carlson — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks to Tom Wengler. In just 20 minutes, they explain how the best economic development marketing teams stay in front of site selectors and business executives who've visited their websites.

Tom explains how to stay top of mind with these people to get more leads.

Plus, you'll learn how advertisers target you with ads too. You can use this knowledge as part of your Business Attraction Strategy!

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Tom Wengler.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

83: Childcare as an Economic Development Priority with Cody Morrison

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks with Cody Morrison about childcare as an economic development priority. Cody is the Executive Director of the Monadnock Economic Development Corporation in Keene, New Hampshire. The MEDC has taken a leading role in working to improve the number of childcare providers in their region.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Cody Morrison.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

82: Rebuild Made in America with Wendy Rosen

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Last week, Wendy Rosen wrote an open letter to President Biden calling on the federal government to help rebuild Made in America. Her letter "Dear President Biden, Rebuild Made in America," struck a cord with Dane, and he brought her on the show to talk about it, and her experiences and insight.

Wendy Rosen is the founder of the American Made Show, the national trade show for American made products. At it's height the show featured 1,600 exhibiting artisans and hosted more than 10,000 retail buyers who ordered more than $40 million at each show in Philadelphia.

Realizing that artists desperately needed business education, Rosen founded the Arts Business Institute and taught workshops in more than 35 states. As one of the first in the field of "arts economic development," she transformed an abandoned civil war era cotton mill into the Mill Centre Artist Studios.

Rosen's AmericanStyle magazine published an annual list of America's Top Arts Destinations. The sector grew to contribute 14B annually to the GDP but lost 70% of it's small businesses after 2009 when small businesses lost seasonal credit lines in the wake of the banking crisis and closure of community banks.

Rosen now provides affordable growth planning services for arts organizations and creative communities. After Richard Florida gives you an assessment or asset inventory, she's the person to give you an affordable plan of action.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Wendy Rosen.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

81: Climate Change: An Opportunity for Economic Developers with Martin Vanags

Dane Carlson — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks with Martin Vanags. According to Martin, climate change is the single biggest challenge we face as humans... however it can also be the single greatest opportunity for economic developers to reframe their attraction, retention and workforce strategies for a positive outcome.

What will it take to change the narrative and reframe the question for ED professionals so that can have successful outcomes?

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Martin Vanags.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

80: Economic Development and Tourism in Canada with Colin Holloway

Dane Carlson — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0600

Colin Holloway is the Economic Development and Communications Officer for the town of Clarenville in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Town of Clarenville is a regional service hub which provides government and retail services to a broader regional population of 35,000 residents. The town has a multitude of local assets which, with the right marketing and exposure, can draw visitors and, more importantly, encourage them to stay longer. Taking a regional approach to tourism enhancement, through the Strategic Tourism Enhancement Program, provides a medium by which businesses and community stakeholders can become involved in economic development. This 11-month stakeholder engagement process will include the development of a Strategic Tourism Plan which the community can embrace and help guide future developments/investments in the area.

In his new role as the Economic Development Officer, his overall goal is to work with the business community and key stakeholders to develop Clarenville as a Tourism Destination.

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Special Guest: Colin Holloway.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

The Town of Clarenville.
Colin Holloway — Clarenville, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

79: Europe and European FDI with W Ford Graham

Dane Carlson — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0600

W Ford Graham is an expert on investment from Europe into the United States. In this episode, we pick his brain on this timely geopolitical economic development topic.

Unfortunately, Ford's audio isn't great in some parts. (This was totally my fault!) But the episode is so relavent that I didn't want you to miss it.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: W Ford Graham.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

78: Joe Sayre Married His Passion and Profession in Economic Development

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 00:15:00 -0600

Joe Sayre has only been an economic developer for about six months, but he's found the profession a marriage of all that he's done before and his love for community service.

He's worked in a variety of jobs and industries... from accounting in the semi-conductor world, to recruiting in higher education, to business development for a mobile sports wagering platform provider.

At the same time, he's also been extremely active in his community and has worked to better it through community/economic development. This includes founding an organization focused on the retention of college students.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Joe Sayre.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

77: The Work Starts at Home: Business Attraction with Lenora Fisher

Dane Carlson — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks business attraction with Lenora Fisher, the Director of Business Attraction at Greater Peoria Economic Development Council.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Lenora Fisher.

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

Links:

76: Dane Asks a Question About Site RFIs

Dane Carlson — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 23:45:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks to himself about site RFIs, and why we don't figure them out in advance?

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

75: The Equity in Economic Development Fellowship Program with Chanell Hasty

Dane Carlson — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks with Chanell Hasty about the IEDC's 2023 Equity in Economic Development Fellowship Program.

In summer 2023, the International Economic Development Council is hosting a second cohort of their Equity in Economic Development Fellowship Program.

If you're an EDO, and would like to participate in this 8-week program to host an Equity in Economic Development Fellow between June 5th and August 4th of 2023, please apply. The deadline was recently extended to December 16, 2022.

For more information, please see the links below.

Special Guest: Chanell Hasty.

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

Links:

74: Shop Local First with Steve Fletcher

Dane Carlson — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Steve Fletcher is the Director of Economic Development at Lowcountry Local First. There he works to advance economic prosperity and local ownership through innovative and inclusive initiatives that build our community’s wealth and wellbeing. Dane talks with him about how shopping local is more than just a holiday initiative.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Steve Fletcher.

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

Links:

American Independent Business Alliance
Good Business Summit – February 9, 2023 — A business conference with soul – the 10th annual Good Business Summit is a one-day event presented by Lowcountry Local First spotlighting ideas and workable solutions for building your company with profit and purpose.
Lowcountry Local First
Institute for Local Self-Reliance

73: Podcast Powered Economic Development: Part 1

Dane Carlson — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks about how to supercharge your economic development with a podcast.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

Links:

Your EDO Needs a Podcast (or Two) with Chad Chancellor

72: Utility Economic Development in 2022 with Richard Cornelison

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks with Richard Cornelison, Director of Regional Growth and Economic Development for Cleco. Cleco is a regional utility company in Louisana. Richard is the right guy for the job. He's been in utility economic development for nearly 27 years.

Utilities are often the primary driver of economic development in many communities. They are often the chief funder but can also bring several technical resources, including GIS, data, etc.

But in 2022, their role is evolving.

What communities and state departments of commerce need is not just help to answer RFPs. In this episode, Richard, brings his years of utility ED experience to bear and describes the future.

(Sorry for the audio quality. We had some technical issues on my side. I accidentally recorded the audio from my Airpods instead of my mic.)

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Richard Cornelison.

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

71: Both a Planning Agency and an EDO With Chris Setti

Dane Carlson — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Chris Setti, the CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council.

The GPEDC is both a planning agency and a traditional ED practitioner. They are the official steward of the Greater Peoria Economic Development District on behalf of the US EDA, and are responsible for the creation and stewardship of the regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. They are also tasked with all the traditional ED activities like business attraction, BRE, startup, etc.

In almost every other place, the "planning" function would be done by a regional planning commission or council of government and the "working" function done by an 501c6/c3 EDO.

They get to do both, and it is very cool.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Chris Setti.

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

Links:

Christopher Setti | LinkedIn
Tarter Source: CEO of the Greater Peoria EDC Chris Setti | Recorded live
Business Forward | S01 E22: Regional Development Strategy | Season 1 | Episode 22 | PBS — Matt George goes one on one with Chris Setti as we talk about a regional strategy for economic success
News and Events - Greater Peoria EDC
Greater Peoria Economic Development Council: Overview | LinkedIn
Homepage - Greater Peoria EDC
A Message to Garcia by Elbert Hubbard — Chris: "One of my first real boss-mentors had me read this (only 3 pages) and it has been a sort of guidepost to how I operate as a professional: just do the work and be useful to people."

70: Digital Entrepreneurial Support and Ecosystem Building with Jenny Poon

Dane Carlson — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Jenny Poon about HUUB, a digital resource platform for economic developers to better serve and engage with their small business community.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Jenny Poon.

Sponsored By:

Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.

Links:

69: Tackling Workforce Development from a Unique Angle With Clint Knight and Sandy Messner

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with talks with Clint Knight and Sandy Messner.

In 2022, the Richland Area Chamber tackled Workforce Development from a unique angle. They'd spent years working to integrate upskilling opportunities and education in the effort, and realized that there was a gap in the process. They identified that gap - in their community - as "awareness".

They've taken on a large scale marketing strategy to attack that challenge head on. By utilizing opportunities for project based learning, multimedia content, and targeted social media strategies - they are backing the truck up, and working to make sure that stakeholders and active players are aware of the resources and opportunities that are available to them.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guests: Clint Knight and Sandy Messner.

Sponsored By:

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Links:

Clint Knight | LinkedIn
Sandy Messner, MBA | LinkedIn
Richland Area Chamber of Commerce
Richland Works | Richland Area Chamber of Commerce
Richland Area Chamber Economic Development
Summer learning: Students in The Career Institute summer youth works program gain unique experiences | Business News — School may be out for the summer, but the students enrolled in The Career Institute are working hard to enhance their skills in the Summer Youth Employment program in Richland County. According to the Richland Area Chamber and Economic Development website, “The Career Institute is focused on project-based learning and meaningful workplace experiences.”
Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development | Facebook
Richland Workforce Pulse Podcast — The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development hosts this series focused on workforce development in Richland County, Ohio, with discussion about how it relates to the state and surrounding region. Hosted by Clint Knight, Director of Workforce Development, we will cover unemployment trends, employee retention and engagement, recruiting and communication methods, employee education and upskilling, talent gaps, and potential funding sources for training.

68: How Creating Housing Density Can Solve Economic Challenges with Scott Graves

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Scott Graves talks about how investing in creating housing density across a wide a socioeconomic spectrum can build better places.

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Special Guest: Scott Graves.

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67: How to Build a Business Accelerator in Your Small Town With Jana Sanchez

Dane Carlson — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:15:00 -0500

If you want to see BR&E program that consists of more than just being a connector of information and contacts for your businesses, this is the episode for you.

In tis episode, Jana Sanchez walks us through the ins and outs of the Business Accelerator Services of Estes (BASE) Program at the Estes Park EDC. The BASE Program is a 6-month intensive dive into building and growing your business, helping leaders in three core areas - Leadership, Operations, and Innovation.

According to Jana, existing businesses need executive education in order to grow and expand. This should be an essential function of your business retention and expansion programs.

Her accelerator is comprehensive executive education that is helping her mountain tourist town's businesses to expand. But not just that – her program can show positive , concrete results that help the EDC be better understood in the community, and raise more money.

The episode is full of great insights, and success stories from Estes Park.

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Special Guest: Jana Sanchez.

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66: Workforce Development Starts in 3rd Grade with Greg Lowe

Dane Carlson — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Greg Lowe is the Economic Development Director in Lewisburg, Tennessee. His workforce development program doesn't start in trade school or junior college. It starts in third grade.

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Special Guest: Greg Lowe.

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Links:

Greg Lowe, TCEcD
City of Lewisburg, TN
Make It In Marshall
Greg Lowe, TCEcD Bio & Resume
Lewisburg, Tennessee | Facebook
VR Event with Motlow State 063022 - YouTube — Discussion with Dr. Tony Millican of Motlow State Community College about its VR Lab and the current uses of VR/AR and the future potential in education and training and more from this evolving technology
VR & ECD Series GSA and PlaceVR 062322 - Youtube — Discussion with Aaron Brossoit and Audrey Anderson of Golden Shovel Agency and PlaceVR on Virtual Reality in Economic Development from Fam Tours and Site Visits to Workforce Development and more.
VR & ECD Series TransfrVR 062322 - YouTube — Discussion with Arielle Woodmore of TransfrVR on Virtual Reality and Workforce Development, Education & Training opportunities for students, adults, employers and employees.
13 Ways to Kill Your Community by Doug Griffiths and Kelly Clemmer

65: A Tourism Director Who Thinks Like an Economic Developer with Thomas Salley

Dane Carlson — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Thomas Salley is the Director of the Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority. He is passionate about rural development, hospitality and tourism, and it shows.

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Special Guest: Thomas Salley.

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64: Attracting Young People to the Profession of Economic Development with Mark Barbash

Dane Carlson — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Mark Barbash has been in economic development since 1981. Today, he spends a lot of time trying to improve the profession, bring more young people into the economic development, and figuring out how to grow the profession for the future.

Mark is currently the founder and Director of the Ohio Economic Development Institute, the professional development program for the Ohio Economic Development Association. The Institute provides education and training in both basic and intensive economic and community development.

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Special Guest: Mark Barbash.

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63: Building Startup Accelerators with John Lynn

Dane Carlson — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0500

As economic developers, we can be guilty of deciding what our community should be and then telling everyone to get busy.

According to John Lynn with cela Innovation, another model is to create and provide the tools necessary for our communities to figure out where they see opportunities in the market and then support them as they develop profitable solutions. Regional startup accelerators can fulfill that role and help our communities develop post-pandemic resilient economies.

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Special Guest: John Lynn.

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62: This Economic Developer Absolutely Loves Her Small Town with Amanda Beadles

Dane Carlson — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Amanda Beadles absolutely loves the small town of Chillicothe, Illinois. That's good because she's their local economic developer, and small town econ dev can be difficult without the right mental attitude.

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Special Guest: Amanda Beadles.

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Links:

The City of Chillicothe
In the Spotlight - Amanda Beadles
How a cozy Illinois town rejuvenated its unsightly downtown buildings — Two decades later, how Chillicothe's TIF district has revitalized the city's downtown: However, the town's taxing bodies didn't agree on an extension for another four years.
As Chillicothe TIF district expires, economic leaders look back at its impact
Chillicothe businesses are seeing improvements, renovations thanks to TIF funds
Triple Dipple's Treats and Delicacies
Amanda Beadles | LinkedIn
City of Chillicothe Economic Development

61: Marketing America's Most Promising Places with Amanda Ellis

Dane Carlson — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Dane talks with Amanda Ellis, Editor in Chief of Livability.com, about marketing your community for economic development and talent attraction. Amanda hosts the Inside America’s Best Cities podcast, writes the Let’s Talk Talent newsletter.

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Special Guest: Amanda Ellis.

Sponsored By:

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Links:

Livability.com
Livability Media
Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Ranked
Livability Media Whitepapers — Research on American relocation habits
Livability's Let's Talk Talent Monthly Newsletter
Inside America’s Best Cities Podcast

60: Passionate Economic Development in Massachusetts with Paul DiGiuseppe

Dane Carlson — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Paul DiGiuseppe still considers himself a newcomer to economic development, but Paul has an incredible, contagious, passion for the industry.

Now the Director of Economic and Community Development at the Town of Middleborough, Massachusetts, he started in the industry four years ago, in a different small town, with no experience in economic development, but with 25 years of city planning in a variety of cities across the county.

About a year and a half into his job, he realized that he didn't understand and know enough about econ dev.

And then COVID hit.

He was totally unprepared and wasn't ready to help his local businesses struggling to keep their doors open.

While receiving COVID funding information from the state and feds, he had no good way of communicating with his businesses. This kept him up at night.

Finally, with the help of many people both inside the town and out, as well as podcasts, websites, books, etc., he grew to better understand his role in economic development.

As a result, today, he's more focused than ever. He spends his days connecting with his business community and doing business attraction.

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Special Guest: Paul DiGiuseppe.

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59: Your First 90 Days with Paul DiGiuseppe

Dane Carlson — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 08:30:00 -0500

In this short snippet of an episode Dane talks with Paul DiGiuseppe, who explains what to do in your first 90 days on the job.

Paul is the is the Director of Economic and Community Development at Town of Middleborough, Massachusetts.

This is part one of Dane's conversation with Paul.

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Special Guest: Paul DiGiuseppe.

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58: War Stories with J.R. Charles

Dane Carlson — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0500

This is part two of conversation with J.R. Charles.

In this episode, J.R. shares his incredible war story and explains the nobility of the economic development profession.

J.R. explains:

One of my biggest projects came when I was informed about a looming bankruptcy for one of our manufactuers (I'd like to keep the companies anonymous). Rather than let the company liquidate, I worked with the facility's manager to identify another company which bought out that insolvent manufacturer. The new company acquired the insolvent company on Feb 14, 2020 (we called it the best Valentine's present our community could recieve), and one month later, COVID hit and my wife and I welcomed our son into the world.

I worked with the new company's corporate and legal team via weekly zoom meetings to negotiate the incentive deal; at the same time, I kept our elected officials informed as they were dealing with quarantine protocols, face mask orders, and public health initiatives.

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Special Guest: J.R. Charles.

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57: You Gotta Network to Get Work with J.R. Charles

Dane Carlson — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 16:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we play the first part of a conversation between Dane and J.R. Charles, the Community Development Director for the City of Mauldin, South Carolina.

In their wide-ranging conversation, J.R. explains how to best take advantage of memberships in state and regional associations.

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Special Guest: J.R. Charles.

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56: Failure Generates Growth with Beka Burton

Dane Carlson — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Beka Burton recently failed her CEcD exam, and she's here to talk about it. She doesn't think about it as failing. She just found a way that didn't work.

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Special Guest: Beka Burton.

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55: Economic Development in Suburban Chicago with Kevin Leighty

Dane Carlson — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Dane talks with Kevin Leighty, Economic Development Director in the Village of Oswego, Illinois.

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Special Guest: Kevin Leighty.

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54: How to Change Your Community's Perception of Itself with Steve Griffin

Dane Carlson — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Steve Griffin of Finger Lakes EDC.

Steve's rural New York community has gone from a sleepy little community to leading their metro region by percentage growth in nearly every single economic category in the last 15 years. Here's how he did it.

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Special Guest: Steve Griffin.

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Links:

Finger Lakes EDC
Steve Griffin | LinkedIn
FLEDC on BBC World Business Report — Starts at about 1 minute
Steve does a monthly interview on a local radio station — Here's a recent clip.
Steve Griffin Discusses Economic Development in Yates & FLX .::. Sunday Conversation 3/24/19 - YouTube

53: What To Do First in Economic Development with Andy Portera

Dane Carlson — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Economic development consultant Andy Portera answers the question: When you're brought into a community, what do you advise them to do first.

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Special Guest: Andy Portera.

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52: The Journey: Successful Strategies and Techniques for Economic Developers with Chad Newell

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Chad Newell serves as President of the Area Development Partnership (ADP) in Hattiesburg, MS, a position he has held since December 2009. The ADP is the regional chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Greater Hattiesburg, MS.

He recently co-authored the book The Journey: Successful Strategies and Techniques for Economic Developers.

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Special Guest: Chad Newell.

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Links:

The Journey: Successful Strategies and Techniques for Economic Developers

51: Economic Development is Changing with Nathan Ohle, President & CEO of the IEDC

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 07:30:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Nathan Ohle. He currently serves as the President & CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers, with more than 5,000 members globally.

According to Nathan, "The economic development field is changing, and IEDC will continue to play a leadership role in driving equitable economic outcomes."

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Special Guest: Nathan Ohle.

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Links:

International Economic Development Council
Rural Community Assistance Partnership
A Playbook for Equitable Economic Development — Guidance on identifying structural racism and implementing equitable practices

50: Dane's Rules for Conferences

Dane Carlson — Tue, 17 May 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Last week the IEDC published the program for their 2022 Annual Conference in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma September 18-21.

Since for some of you this might be the first conference you've attended in person since 2019, I thought it might be an excellent opportunity to share my "rules for conferences".

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49: Understanding Your Startup Ecosystem With Darren Stauffer

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 May 2022 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Darren Stauffer.

Darren spent four years at the Arlington Economic Development, and now he's in Europe working with Dealroom.co, a venture-backed global data platform for intelligence on startups, innovation, high-growth companies, ecosystems and investment strategies.

According to Darren, the tide for economic developers has shifted, and tech ecosystems are truly everywhere.

The days of 'we want to be the Silicon Valley of ...' are gone. Every city and region has a story to tell, and the geographic landscape of what can be a tech hub has shifted over the past several years.

Understanding this growth while fostering it is going to be more and more important for all types of cities. Because data is powerful.

It doesn't matter where your city or region is on the development of their tech ecosystem - data can and does inform decisions and having the right data to help tell your story is important.

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Special Guest: Darren Stauffer.

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48: Local Econ Dev Digital Marketing with KathodeRay Media

Dane Carlson — Mon, 02 May 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode Dane talks with Mark Gustavson and Marlene McTigue of KathodeRay Media about their success stories in rural economic development digital marketing.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your name or Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

Special Guests: Mark Gustavson and Marlene McTigue.

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47: Arizona Economic Development With Carrie Kelly

Dane Carlson — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Dane Carlson talks to Carrie Kelly, the Executive Director of the Arizona Association for Economic Development.

They discuss:

The economic development landscape in Arizona
Is Carrie an economic developer or an executive of a membership organization
The economic development stars in Arizona
Mentors and mentorships
How Carrie wants to make BR&E sexy

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Special Guest: Carrie Kelly.

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46: Using Plain Language in Economic Development with Melissa Meschke

Dane Carlson — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Has this happened to you: Do you find it difficult to explain your job to your family, friends, and even your professional contacts?

According to Melissa Meschke, Economic Development Outreach Manager for the Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship at the University of Wisconsin, the interesting thing about Economic Development is hard to difficult it is to describe economic developers do.

Her response: Use plain language!

She recently earned a Plain Language Certificate through UW-Madison. The experience was eye-opening for her and has helped her to hone in her networking and written communication.

In this episode we discuss this, networking, and Melissa's favorite book: How to be a Power Connector by Judy Robinett

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Special Guest: Melissa Meschke.

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45: How to Merge an EDO with a Chamber with Andy Sokolovich

Dane Carlson — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0500

How do you merge a Chamber of Commerce and an Economic Development Organization? Today we talk to Andy Sokolovich about his experience doing just this in Clinton, Iowa.

With the overwhelming support of the membership, investors, and Board of Directors, the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and Clinton Regional Development Corporation have approved a merger — creating a single entity known as Grow Clinton. The combined organization will focus on tourism, economic and community development.

How did the merger come about? How did it work? What about the staff? In this episode, we talk through all this, and more.

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Special Guest: Andy Sokolovich.

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44: Podcasting 101

Dane Carlson — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, we get geeky. Dane quickly explains his podcasting setup.

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Links:

Amazon.com: Audio Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic Microphone (ATR Series) for Voiceover, Podcasting and Studio Recording Bundle with Blucoil Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter, and 3' USB Extension Cable : Musical Instruments
Amazon.com: Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone (ATR Series) for Windows and Mac Bundle with Samson SR350 Over-Ear Stereo Headphones, Blucoil Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter, and USB-A Mini Hub : Musical Instruments
Zoom — You're familiar with this one, I'm sure.
Riverside.fm — Like Zoom, but better because it records each participant locally.
Yourimagingguy on Fiverr — The guy who did our intro and outro.
Fireside — Podcast hosting
Descript — Edit audio & video as easily as easily as Microsoft Word doc.

43: Talking Downtown Strategies with Jenn Gregory and Elliott Cook

Dane Carlson — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks downtowns with Jenn Gregory and Elliott Cook, both on the Downtown Strategies team at Retail Strategies. Every community in America, of any size or population, can revitalize or create a downtown. According to the Jenn and Elliott, placemaking comes in all shapes and sizes. They encourage you to start small and build on that success!

In this episode, Dane talks downtowns with Jenn Gregory and Elliott Cook. Jenn and Elliott are both on the Downtown Strategies team at Retail Strategies.

Every community in America, of any size or population, can revitalize or create a downtown. According to the Jenn and Elliott, placemaking comes in all shapes and sizes. They encourage you to start small and build on that success!

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your name or Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

Special Guests: Elliott Cook and Jenn Gregory.

Sponsored By:

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Links:

Webinar: Downtown Real Estate: How to Activate Retail Vacancies - Retail Strategies — Retail and restaurant options play a big part of a vibrant downtown, but it can challenging to know what the biggest real estate opportunities are for city leaders. Whether you have a completely vacant Main Street, have recently had positive momentum downtown, or are fearful that long-time businesses may shutter in the coming months, our approach is to provide guidance to create and implement a sensible retail plan for your downtown. In this webinar, Elliott Cook, provides answers to some frequently asked questions he hears from community leaders that are focused on maximizing real estate assets in their downtown.
Free Walkability Assessment - Retail Strategies
Downtown Real Estate - Data Collection List
Retail Strategies (@retailadviser) / Twitter
Retail Strategies | Facebook
Retail Strategies (@retailstrategies) • Instagram photos and videos
Retail Strategies on Vimeo

42: Rural Revitalization with Sarah Thompson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0500

Dane talks to Sarah Thompson about rolling up your sleeves and figuring out a new path if your rural community needs help. According to Sarah, there is nothing that can stop those who truly want a better future for their downtown and community. It takes hard work and committed volunteers.

Special Guest: Sarah Thompson.

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41: Economic Development in Alabama With Jim Searcy

Dane Carlson — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks with Jim Searcy, executive director of the Economic Development Association of Alabama.

Special Guest: Jim Searcy.

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40: With Alejandra Castillo, US Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development

Dane Carlson — Sun, 06 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks with Alejandra Castillo, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development and the head of the Economic Development Administration.

We discuss:

Ms. Castillo's background and how she became the country's chief economic developer
The Economic Development Administration and the US Commerce Department
The Build Back Better Regional Challenge
Supply chains
Worker training and workforce development
Regional, cluster-based, and place-based economic development
Infastructure
Building capacity at the local level
Recovery and resiliency in your local community
Making your community more competitive globally
Collaboration in economic development, and who the EDA collaborates
What the EDA is doing to promote diversity, equity and inclusion

Special Guest: Alejandra Castillo.

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39: Economic Development is Still Not for Amateurs with Jay Garner

Dane Carlson — Sun, 27 Feb 2022 20:00:00 -0600

Dane talks to Jay Garner, president and founder of Garner Economics, and the former chair of both the IEDC and Site Selectors Guild, about his new book "Economic Development is Still Not for Amateurs".

Special Guest: Jay Garner.

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36: Mind the T's with Chris Johnson in Johnston County

Dane Carlson — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0600

Chris Johnson is the Director of Johnston County Economic Development in North Carolina. Imagine how difficult it must be to give out his email address.

Dane and Chris talk about Chris's background in retail and what new perspectives he's brought to economic development including thinking of a spec building as a loss leader.

Special Guest: Chris Johnson.

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35: Professional Economic Development with Rob Sitterley

Dane Carlson — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0600

Rob Sitterley is a real pro. He's worked in a local community, statewide and now works in regional economic development. In this episode, the President & CEO of AR-TX Regional Economic Development Inc. shares his tactics to make you better economic developer. He also gives us some insight into Texarkana, and doing economic development for two different states.

Special Guest: Rob Sitterley.

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Links:

34: Rural California Business Retention and Attraction With Cole Przybyla

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0600

Dane and Cole Przybyla talk about Cole's unique business retention and attraction tactics in rural California.

Special Guest: Cole Przybyla.

Sponsored By:

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33: Economic Development in New Mexico with Kristen Gamboa

Dane Carlson — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode, Dane talks to Kristen Gamboa. She is the Senior Economic Developer for the Village of Los Lunas. She has been instrumental in helping existing businesses expand and grow, as well actively market and bring in new economic-base businesses to the second fastest growing community in New Mexico. Prior to this, she was the Director of Business Development for the New Mexico Partnership where she actively engaged with companies, C-suite executives, and site consultants looking for expansion, relocation, or new project opportunities across the Land of Enchantment.

According to Kristen, "New Mexico is a hidden gem that is still a little rough around the edges but with more regionalized economic development strategies you're going to hear and see more companies expanding to our 'Land of Enchantment'."

Special Guest: Kristen Gamboa.

Sponsored By:

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Links:

Economic Development of Los Lunas
Kristen Gamboa on LinkedIn
The New Mexico Partnership — The state designated single-point-of-contact for companies considering New Mexico for their next expansion.
Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance — AREA leads and executes strategies designed to grow and diversify the economic base of the greater Albuquerque region, creating a prosperous, diverse and inclusive economy and elevating the standard of living for all.

32: Talking Econ Dev Marketing and Hubspot with Tom Wengler

Dane Carlson — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Tom Wengler and Dane talk Hubspot, and economic development marketing.

Special Guest: Tom Wengler.

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Links:

Convergence

31: Incentivizing Your Community with Michael Mazur

Dane Carlson — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 11:00:00 -0600

During the pandemic, cities were able to use elements of gamification and behavioral economics to boost consumption at their local businesses and create a sense of civic pride. Colu VP Michael Mazur explains the process to host Dane Carlson.

Special Guest: Michael Mazur.

Sponsored By:

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Links:

30: On Economic Development Districts and Local Communities with Alyce Brown

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0600

Economic development district director Alyce Brown thinks that economic development was already changing before COVID, but that change has now become a necessity because of the pandemic. She talks to Dane about how to get back to basic, grassroots initiatives. She explains that "hometown pride" needs to be a part of our planning and long-term vision.

Special Guest: Alyce Brown.

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North Star Opportunity Zones

29: Work Where You Live with Erin Silk and Lisa Krouse

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 01:00:00 -0600

The American Dream for millions of Americans has always been to work hard for thirty years, and to then to retire to Florida. But what if you could break that mold and work where you want to live?

Lisa Krouse and Erin Silk talk with Dane about workforce and business attraction, and what's driving the growth of Sarasota County, Florida.

Special Guests: Erin Silk and Lisa Krouse.

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28: On the Ground (and in the Water) with Caleb McMahon

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, host Dane Carlson talks with Caleb McMahon. Caleb is a former site selector in China, who is now the Director of Economic Development for Port Angeles, Washington. Dane and Caleb discuss what he's seeing on the ground, and in the water.

Special Guest: Caleb McMahon.

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27: Dane on the EcDev Network with Dan Taylor and Lara Fritts

Dane Carlson — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0600

Earlier this summer, Dane was a guest on the EcDev Network, where he talked about his background, moving from California to Texas, and the Econ Dev Show.

The EcDev Network a weekly Clubhouse call focused on economic development, hosted by Dan Taylor, Bob Minhas and Lara Fritts . It's the only Clubhouse club, by economic professionals for economic professionals and local economies across the globe. The call is for those interested in community and economic development issues. This includes elected officials, economic & tourism development professionals, businesses and community members. Each week Bob, Dan and Lara feature a different theme with special guest speakers.

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26: On Marketing With Dave Parsell, Founder of Localintel

Dane Carlson — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks marketing with Dave Parsell. Dave is co-founder of Localintel, a technology company providing location marketing tools that hundreds of economic developers have added to their website to promote their community's advantages.

Special Guest: Dave Parsell.

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25: From Top to the Bottom: Economic Development in Manatee County Florida with Ruth Buchanan and Che Barnett

Dane Carlson — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Ruth Buchanan is the Economic Development Manager, and Che Barnett is a Redevelopment Coordinator. Both work for Manatee County, Florida. There, they work together to build the local economy from the top and the bottom.

Special Guests: Che Barnett and Ruth Buchanan.

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24: "Talent Optimization" with Ben Nelson

Dane Carlson — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 01:00:00 -0500

Ben Nelson is the founder and CEO of Radix Leadership. He specializes in helping leaders and organizations build high performing teams that achieve their goals by aligning their purpose and their people to deliver on performance. He's also the executive director of the Kewaunee County Economic Development Corporation in Wisconsin.

Special Guest: Ben Nelson.

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23: Talking Entrepreneurship in West Virginia with Bill Woodrum

Dane Carlson — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 00:15:00 -0500

Dane and Bill Woodrum have a wide reaching conversation on entrepreneurship. Bill is the Coordinator of the WV Entrepreneurship Network and project director for WV BusinessLink at the WV Department of Economic Development.

Special Guest: Bill Woodrum.

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22: Meet the "Chief Remover of Obstacles" Lea Ann Seiler

Dane Carlson — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 00:15:00 -0500

Meet Lea Ann Seiler of Hodgeman County, Kansas. Her job is to daily figure out what obstacles she can remove so that her community members can move forward with their businesses.

Special Guest: Lea Ann Seiler.

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21: From Site Selector to Econ Dev with Andrew Sloss

Dane Carlson — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 00:15:00 -0500

Andrew Sloss was a site selector for ten years before making the transition during Covid to economic development. Listen in for his advice from both sides of the table.

Favorite Books & Resources

I would highly recommend Jay Garner and Ross Patten's book Economic Development is Not for Amateurs especially if you are new to ED but it is also a good refresher for those experienced professionals.

I love to read so this is a difficult question to answer. For now, I would say The Barbarian Way by Erwin McManus.

Favorite Economic Development Tools

We just started our subscription recently so I am still learning the platform but Gazelle.ai has been amazing and will help us a great deal in recruiting companies to Brookings. We currently don't use Slack at BEDC but in past jobs, I have really enjoyed using that for internal communications and team building.

I also cannot say enough about all the resources the Next Move Group has for EDO professionals. Chad may talk funny but he has a lot of information for EDO's to better themselves professionally and personally.

What's the Most Important Thing You've Learned Recently?

The most important thing I have learned, especially over the last 5 years is that you have to do what is right for you and your family. No one is going to look out for you other than yourself. If you have an opportunity to better yourself, gain experience, and/or make more money to provide a better life, take it. Don't worry about what others might think and certainly don't worry about what your boss/board/co-workers will think. No one, other than yourself, will ever have your best interests in mind.

Special Guest: Andrew Sloss.

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20: With Dane Carlson (on the We Are Jobs Podcast)

Dane Carlson — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 00:15:00 -0500

On this, the 20th episode of Econ Dev Show, we're doing something different: This week we're replaying an interview with Dane from the We Are Jobs Podcast.

Special Guest: Chad Chancellor.

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19: Planning and Anthropology with Econ Dev Jim Eldridge

Dane Carlson — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 00:15:00 -0500

Jim Eldridge grew up wanting to be an anthropologist or a city planner. Instead, he puts both of those skillsets to use as an economic developer in Ada, Oklahoma.

Jim thinks that economic developers need to change the ways in which we work. So much of the work we do, day-to-day, in our field is pragmatic, but we spend too little time thinking about more innovative or better ways of improving our ability to support our local communities and economies. We have to spend more time thinking about new and different ways of making our work more effective.

Special Guest: Jim Eldridge.

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18: The Secrets of Economic Development with Novelist and Econ Dev Don Erwin

Dane Carlson — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 00:15:00 -0500

Retired econ dev Don Erwin has written an engrossing thriller and an economic development textbook. (And yes, they're the same book: Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel.)

You can reach Don by email at Donaldlouiserwin@gmail.com.

Special Guest: Don Erwin.

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Links:

DonErwin.net
Economic Development By The Book on Vimeo — Economic Development Assoc. of Alabama Summer Conference -- July 27th
21 Book Recommendations for 2021 — Happy Holidays from DCI!
Review: Buffalo Hunting in Alabama by Don Erwin - Birmingham Business Journal
Real Estate Matters Podcast - 86: Profiles in Real Estate - Don Erwin
Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel — What if economic development was a cross between Jurassic Park, James Bond and Jack Reacher?
(Paperback) Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel
(Kindle eBook) Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel
(Audible Audiobook) Buffalo Hunting in Alabama: A Novel

17: Entrepreneurship-Led Economic Development with Zachary Barker

Dane Carlson — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 00:15:00 -0500

In this episode, we hear from Zachary Barker about entrepreneurship-led economic development.

Zach's an expert in ecosystem design and delivery of entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation (ETI) led programming.

He said:

Entrepreneur-led economic development is the one of the best investment EDOs can make in their communities.

It supports BRE efforts for small businesses, retains young talent, diversifies the local business makeup, and... even if the people who enter your program are not successful in growing a business, they become experts in business execution and thus EXCEPTIONAL employees.

What's been your most influential book and why?

The Four-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferris

this was my first glimpse into building systems to scale entrepreneurial ventures. I was a banker at the time when this came out and it shifted how I did banking, then launched me into entrepreneurship

Mastering the Rockefeller Habits by Verne Harnish

as a dealmaker (not the technical partner in a startup), I found that I was driving activity but didn't understand why I was not getting results. I had a business plan but that was a lot of assumptions where the "Rock Habits" is a "what to do today to be successful" model to follow
I have adapted this style of training along with driving the entrepreneurs self-understanding of their emotional intelligence, natural strengths, and mental health to create the Entrepreneur Blueprint

What is your favorite productivity tool or resource?

Audible - I have some wicked ADD and it can be difficult to find quiet time to read and dig in, but listening in the car, at the gym, walking the dogs, makes it to where I can learn the whole concepts, then go back and use the book as a manual of which I have a great understanding upfront
Therapy - while maybe not a tool or resource, understanding entrepreneurship is a guaranteed path towards failures, rejection, and missteps (as you have to learn what not to do before you succeed), means that you entrepreneurs (more than others) will have high potential for mental health struggles. From despair to frustration, loneliness to anxiety, knowing these will come and having a plan to preemptively address them gives me a toolkit that helps me move to the next "win"

Special Guest: Zachary Barker.

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16: With Change Agent Jimi Copland of The Rural Spark

Dane Carlson — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 00:15:00 -0500

I this episode, Dane talks with Jimi Copland.

Jimi is rural economic developer, educator, needle mover, encourager, change agent, and owner of The Rural Spark, an online educational platform for small communities.

Special Guest: Jimi Copland.

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15: Dane Talks to Himself About the Econ Dev Show

Dane Carlson — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Not content to just interview economic developers, in this episode host Dane Carlson tries talking to himself.

He spends time talking to himself about all of the great content from the Econ Dev Show that's not the podcast, including the five weekday emails:

(Monday) Podcast Episode 14 - Is Stewart McGregor the Friendliest Economic Developer in Texas? - What happens when you pair one of the friendliest economic developers you'll ever meet, with one of the most interesting cities that you've never heard of?
(Tuesday) Amazon Has Changed Online Shopping and Economic Development - This isn't about Amazon HQ2, I promise.
(Wednesday) Economic Development and Developers in the News - Econ dev news from 112 economic development executives and organizations in 38 states, the Virgin Islands and Canada.
(Thursday) 45 Things Economic Developers Need To Know This Week - The stories that you need to see from this week.
(Friday) Economic Development Jobs This Week

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14: Is Stewart McGregor the Friendliest Economic Developer in Texas? You Decide.

Dane Carlson — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 00:15:00 -0500

What happens when you pair one of the friendliest economic developers you'll ever meet, with one of the most interesting cities that you've never heard of? In this episode, Dane meets Stewart McGregor of Grand Prairie, Texas.

Special Guest: Stewart McGregor.

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13: "Rural is Cool" BR&E in Southeast Ohio with Taylor Stepp

Dane Carlson — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 00:45:00 -0500

In this episode we talk about making "rural cool" in Southeast Ohio with Taylor Stepp, and democratizing growth by recruiting white collar remote-workers to a traditionally blue collar region.

Dane and Taylor discuss the benefits of rural communities, BR&E and remote work opportunities. Taylor also dispels some preconceived notions about Appalachia.

Special Guest: Taylor Stepp.

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Links:

JobsOhio - Ohio Economic Development — JobsOhio is a private nonprofit corporation designed to drive job creation and new capital investment in Ohio through business attraction, retention and expansion efforts.
Taylor Stepp, CEcD | LinkedIn
Economic Development and Developers in the News — Taylor earned his CEcD, and was highlighted in the June 30, 2021 edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.
Southeast Ohio - Wikitravel
OhioSE Economic Development

12: Real Rural Economic Development with Robert Harrington

Dane Carlson — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Former President Harry Truman said, "It is amazing what you can accomplish when you do not care who gets the credit."

For Robert Harrington this quote is the key to success in economic development in rural America. Born and raised in rural Missouri. Robert has remained part of rural America for his entire life.

When he was a boy, his grandmother instilled in him the importance of a hard day's work and giving back to your community. As an economic developer, he's remained committed to following his grandmother's advice while working as a full-time economic developer across Missouri, Iowa, and Texas.

Robert is currently the Director of Economic Development at the Bourbon County Economic Development Council in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Join Dane, as he and Robert, explore the challenges and opportunities in rural economic development success.

Special Guest: Robert Harrington.

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11: A Super Episode With "Super" Dave Quinn

Dane Carlson — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Super Dave Quinn is one of those economic developers that seems to know and be known by everybody. He's also a sought-after public speaker, influencer, and all around nice guy. He's also super.

He served as Vice President of the Frisco EDC in Frisco, TX from 2014-2018 where he helped lead an economic development team for one of the nation's fastest-growing cities

Since then he's cofounded and is the managing partner for Day One Experts, an on-demand economic development and small business consulting firm.

He's also the founder of the Texas Economic Development Connection, a statewide marketing partnership that connects out-of-state businesses with relocation opportunities in Texas.

Super Dave's favorite book is QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Accountability at Work and in Life, by John Miller. Super Dave says it "It opened my eyes to who was responsible for my success and failure and set me on a lifetime journey of self-discovery and accountability. "

Special Guest: "Super" Dave-Quinn.

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10: Recruiting from the US to Quebec with JP Saucier

Dane Carlson — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0500

Foreign direct investment doesn't just mean international investment in the US. For economic developers in other countries, the US is often the source of the "international" funds. For JP Saucier, who recruits businesses from Los Angeles, California to Quebec, the FDI flows from the United States to Canada.

Special Guest: JP Saucier.

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Setting up your business in North America | Investissement Québec

8: From the West Coast to the East Coast with Patrick Pierce

Dane Carlson — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 16:00:00 -0500

Often the best way to advance in your economic development career is to change organizations. But do you secretly worry that if you pack up and move across the country that you'll get there and be completely clueless?

Today's guest did just that - Patrick Pierce moved from a large organization in Washington state to a small town in North Carolina, and he says that the coopetition is the same everywhere.

Coopetition (sometimes spelled "co-opetition") is the collaboration between competitors, in hopes of mutually beneficial results. Sounds exactly like regional economic development.

Special Guest: Patrick Pierce.

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7: How to Save Your Downtown with Small-Scale Manufacturing with Ilana Preuss

Dane Carlson — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 18:00:00 -0500

What's your downtown like?

As a county economic developer, I can look out over several different cities, all with a diverse array of downtowns:

Some are vibrant, beautiful tourist destinations.

Others are transitioning and improving with city dollars and commercial reinvestment into new stores, new facades, new lighting, new life.

Some suburban cities, to their shame, don't even really have downtowns. Unfortunately, I live in a town like that.

Enjoy the show, and the book.

Special Guest: Ilana Preuss.

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Links:

Purchase Recast Your City — Use this link to purchase the book from Island Press. Use the coupon code RECAST at checkout to save 20%.
Amazon.com: Recast Your City: How to Save Your Downtown with Small-Scale Manufacturing (Paperback)
Recast Your City: How to Save Your Downtown with Small-Scale Manufacturing (Kindle edition)
Recast Your City

6: Economic and Workforce Development with Cody Mosely

Dane Carlson — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 19:00:00 -0500

Can a workforce developer lead the charge for economic development? While many organizations made the the switch from attraction to business retention last year because of COVID and the associated downturns in the economy, Cody Mosely with the Francis Tuttle Technology Center in Oklahoma is going in the other direction and leading the charge for regional economic growth.

Special Guest: Cody Mosley.

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5: What's a Community Development Improvement Corporation with Josh Mejia

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 14:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dane talks to Josh Mejia, the executive director of the Brownsville Community Improvement District in Brownsville, Texas about all the great work he's doing in Brownsville.

We also touch on his work with the IEDC and entrepreneurship-led economic development, SpaceX, international trade and supply chains, downtown redevelopment and more.

Special Guest: Josh Mejia.

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4: Your EDO Needs a Podcast (or Two) with Chad Chancellor

Dane Carlson — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0500

In today's epsisode, Chad Chancellor, CEO and Co-Founder of the Next Move Group and I have a wide ranging conversation:

Why your EDO needs two podcasts (one for local stakeholders, and another for outside attraction.)
Executive Searches. Now's a great time to find a new economic development job. (How to double your salary.)
Economic developers should take jobs all over the country. (The more people you know, the better.)

Special Guest: Chad Chancellor.

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3: From Econ Dev, to a Startup, and Back Again with Shad Burner

Dane Carlson — Sun, 23 May 2021 12:00:00 -0500

You're no doubt familiar with ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and delivery services like Doordash, Uber Eats, and Instacart.

These services work via an app on a smartphone, allowing users to request a ride, or a delivery, anytime, and in almost any medium sized city or larger.

But it didn't used to be that way. DoorDash and Uber used to be exclusively focused on the big cities and the coasts. And there used to be places, decently sized communities like Cape Girardeau, Missouri, that they didn't serve.

Cape Girardeau, Missouri, population 40,000 has about 130,000 in it's MSA. The city is the economic center of Southeast Missouri and also a college town as the home of Southeast Missouri State University.

Located approximately 100 miles southeast of St. Louis and 150 miles north of Memphis, they had almost everything a small city could need... except delivery and ride services.

Local residents were required to use their phones as phones and to call for deliveries from the few restaurants that offered it, and had to use their own cars to travel to stores to buy things. Oh, the horrors!

In 2017, that all changed.

carGO Technologies launched there to provide delivery and ride services. Made by local coders, marketed by local biz devs, and funded by local money, the service was a huge hit. So much so that they eventually expanded into other neighboring cities.

But then, what had seemed so promising, suddenly hit a wall. As carGO tried to expand into larger markets to support its business model and growth, it came face to face with Uber, DoorDash and other competitors, companies who were internationally funded and losing billions of dollars a year. And then COVID-19 happened.

Ultimately, the costs to continue funding growth and the search for a sustainable business model became insurmountable and the company ceased operations in early 2021.

Why, you might ask, are we talking about a failed startup in south east Missouri on a show about economic development ?

My guest today made the jump from economic development at a chamber of commerce, to startup CarGO, and then back to economic development for the state of Missouri.

Along the way, he learned not only how to be entrepreneurial, but how talk to entrepreneurs in their own language. He understands what keeps them up at nights, what they care about, and most importantly what they don't care about at all.

Enjoy the conversation. I did.

Special Guest: Shad Burner.

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2: Inter-Tribal Economic Development with Rebecca Naragon

Dane Carlson — Tue, 18 May 2021 16:00:00 -0500

In this episode Dane Carlson speaks with Rebecca Naragon, Economic Development Director for the United South and East Tribes, Inc.

Many of us work in areas where governmental entities, be they cities, counties and even states and countries work together with through voluntary non profit associations of government.

Where I live and work, in greater Houston, we have the Houston Galveston Area Council. It is the regional organization through which local governments consider issues and cooperate in solving area-wide problems.

Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to sit down virtually with Rebecca Naragon, the economic development director for the United South and Eastern Tribes.

United South and Eastern Tribes, is exactly this, but for 33 Native American tribes.

I think that there are four takeaways from our conversation:

As Rebecca describes it, shopping local doesn't always mean purchasing products and services where you live, but can mean supporting your community, wherever they are.
Sometimes, the very act of just making a list of small business can be empowering for a community. Knowing that they're not alone, can be inspiring and uplifting for small entrepreneurs, and knowing that opportunities and resources are available in their community, can make others feel more connected.
Together with each other, we're more resilient, even in light of huge and radical changes, like we've experienced in the last year with COVID-19.
Finally - there's always light at the end of the tunnel in economic development.

Special Guest: Rebecca Naragon.

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