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• Sitehunt: If your property data is scattered or out of date, you're losing projects.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:

• Jason El Koubi | LinkedIn
• Virginia Economic Development Partnership
• Virginia Economic Development Partnership | LinkedIn

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://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:

• Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
• Sean Adkins, MPA | LinkedIn

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://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:

• Karl Heck | LinkedIn
• Department of Economic Development for Franklin Southampton County | Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc.
• The Nine Nations of North America: Garreau, Joel: 9780380578856: Amazon.com: Books