Advertise on podcast: Develop This: Economic and Community Development

How can economic developers build trust with their communities while navigating opposition, misinformation, and increasingly complex development projects? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Maureen Donohue Krauss to discuss lessons from her 30-year career in economic development and how the profession is evolving. Maureen shares her experiences working with international companies and communities around the world, offering perspective on how global competition, changing expectations, and increased skepticism are shaping economic development today. A major focus of the conversation is community trust. Maureen explains why transparency, early engagement, and consistent communication are becoming essential as communities evaluate controversial projects such as data centers, wind farms, and other major developments. Key Takeaways Trust and transparency are essential to successful economic development Early community involvement can reduce opposition and build support Verifiable data can help address misinformation and community concerns Economic developers must become effective consensus builders Confidentiality and transparency must be carefully balanced Strong relationships should be built before they are needed Community conversations should be proactive rather than reactive Economic developers need to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders Knowing when to walk away from a project can be just as important as pursuing one Key Topics Covered Community opposition to development projects Building trust and transparency International economic development lessons Community engagement and communication Misinformation and data-driven decision-making Balancing confidentiality with transparency Building community consensus The evolving role of economic developers Skills needed for the future Proactive community conversations Developing a social contract for economic development Sound Bites "Trust with your community is new and essential." "Use verifiable data to combat misinformation." "The future of economic development is doing multiple things at once."

What does it take for communities to compete for investment in an increasingly competitive global economy? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise talks with foreign direct investment expert Andreas Dressler about how communities can attract and benefit from FDI. Andreas explains why not all foreign investment is equally beneficial and why communities need to understand what they actually want to attract. The conversation explores corporate site selection, investment drivers, and the growing importance of soft factors such as community support, certainty, and quality of life. The discussion also highlights why focus matters, especially for small communities. Andreas shares how communities can develop a clear value proposition, coordinate local stakeholders, prepare for international investors, and reduce uncertainty throughout the site selection process. The episode also covers investor aftercare and why economic development organizations themselves are part of the product they are selling to potential investors. A key takeaway? Communities that understand what they want to attract and create a clear, coordinated strategy can compete more effectively for global investment. Key Takeaways Not all FDI provides the same benefits Soft factors can strongly influence investment decisions Community support and certainty matter to investors Focus helps communities compete more effectively Small communities can compete globally with the right strategy Investor aftercare is essential Economic development organizations are part of the community's value proposition Key Topics Covered Foreign direct investment and global competition Corporate site selection Community support and certainty Economic development strategy Small community FDI attraction Stakeholder alignment Investor aftercare Preparing for international site visits Sound Bites "Not all FDI is equally beneficial." "Soft factors like community support and certainty are crucial." "Communities that understand what they want to attract will win."

What does Ukraine's economy look like in the middle of war, and where are the opportunities for future growth and investment? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Bruce Talley to explore the current economic landscape of Ukraine and Moldova and what economic development professionals and investors should understand about the region. Bruce shares his extensive experience working across post-Soviet countries and provides insight into the regional differences within Ukraine, the resilience of its people, and the ways communities and businesses are continuing to adapt despite the ongoing war. The conversation examines the sectors showing the greatest resilience and potential, including defense, food processing, agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure. Bruce also discusses the growth of Ukraine's defense industry and drone technology, as well as the role industrial parks can play in supporting future investment. Another major focus is the investment landscape. Bruce explains why timing matters for investors looking at Ukraine and Moldova, highlighting both the challenges created by the war and the strategic advantages available to those willing to take a longer-term view. Bruce also discusses workforce challenges, migration trends, and the potential impact of Ukraine and Moldova's movement toward greater integration with the European Union. He explains how infrastructure development, reconstruction, and investment could reshape the region's economy in the years ahead. The conversation also looks beyond immediate economic development opportunities to consider Ukraine's long-term potential for tourism, improved infrastructure, and quality of life once the country enters a new phase of recovery and growth. A key takeaway? Ukraine's economy is already demonstrating resilience, and understanding the region's challenges, industries, and strategic position could help economic developers and investors recognize opportunities before the next major wave of growth. Key Takeaways Ukraine's economy continues to show resilience despite the war Regional differences play an important role in Ukraine's economic outlook Defense and food processing are emerging as key growth industries Industrial parks and infrastructure will be critical to future investment Workforce shortages and migration remain significant challenges Moldova offers unique opportunities for investors and economic developers Early strategic investment could create advantages during reconstruction EU integration could strengthen long-term economic opportunities Tourism and quality of life could become important parts of Ukraine's future economy Key Topics Covered Ukraine's regional economic differences and resilience The impact of war on Ukraine's economy Investment opportunities in Ukraine and Moldova Defense, agriculture, and food processing Industrial parks and infrastructure development Workforce challenges and migration EU integration and regional positioning Ukraine's reconstruction and future growth Tourism and quality of life Strategic timing for investors Sound Bites "Ukraine's waiting for the war to end, but it's already growing." "Moldova is a fascinating country with a lot of potential." "Defense and food processing will be the key industries."

What if the best way to become an entrepreneur was to buy an existing business instead of starting one from scratch? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise talks with Royce Yudkoff of Harvard Business School about entrepreneurship through acquisition and how aspiring entrepreneurs can find, purchase, and grow established businesses. Royce explains why buying a profitable business can offer a different path to ownership, the importance of due diligence, and the challenges new owners face during their first 90 days. The conversation also explores company culture, long-term holding companies, franchises, and the emotional realities of searching for and running a business. For economic developers, this approach also offers opportunities to support business transitions, preserve local employers, and keep established businesses thriving when their owners are ready to move on. A key takeaway? Business acquisition can create a path to entrepreneurship while helping preserve and grow the small businesses communities depend on. Key Takeaways Buying an established business offers an alternative to starting from scratch. Thorough due diligence helps identify risks before acquisition. Understand whether you're buying a business or simply buying yourself a job. Company culture plays a major role in employee motivation and business growth. The first 90 days require careful planning and leadership. Long-term holding companies and franchises offer different ownership models. Business succession can help preserve local jobs and economic activity. Key Topics Covered Entrepreneurship through acquisition Buying profitable small businesses The role of MBAs in business ownership Due diligence and risk assessment Business culture and employee motivation Challenges during the first 90 days Long-term holding companies and franchises Small business succession and transitions Common reasons small businesses fail Opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs Sound Bites Suggested sound bites to confirm against the transcript: "Buying a business can be an alternative to starting one from scratch." "Are you buying a job or buying a business?" "The first 90 days can shape the future of a business."

How do you make economic development exciting and understandable for the next generation? In this special episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise talks with Mark Perna and Julie Curtin about Community Quest, a graphic novel designed to make economic development more accessible and engaging for young people and adults alike. They share the inspiration behind the book, how complex concepts are transformed into an adventure story, and how illustrations help bring community development to life. The conversation also covers how the graphic novel can be used in classrooms and community outreach, the development of a facilitator's guide, and the importance of involving young people in shaping their communities. A key takeaway? Engaging young people through storytelling today can help build stronger, more informed communities tomorrow. Key Takeaways Make economic development accessible through storytelling. Use illustrations to simplify complex concepts. Introduce community development to students early. Bring the book into classrooms and community events. Use a facilitator's guide to expand its educational impact. Empower young people to become future community builders. Key Topics Covered The story behind Community Quest Launching the graphic novel at the IDC annual conference Turning economic development into an adventure Illustrations and storytelling in education Youth engagement and community building Classroom and community outreach opportunities The facilitator's guide The industry's centennial and the book's release Book access and distribution plans Inspiring the next generation of community builders Sound Bites "This book makes economic development understandable and fun." "Storytelling is a powerful tool to connect dots in co

Why does everyone hate data centers? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise talks with Chris Lloyd of McGuireWoods Consulting LLC to explore the growing debate surrounding data centers and what they mean for communities. The conversation examines why public opinion around data centers has shifted, from excitement over investment and economic growth to concerns about power, water, noise, land use, and long-term community impact. Chris and Dennis discuss the economic benefits data centers can bring, including tax revenue, infrastructure investment, and new opportunities for communities. They also take a closer look at the trade-offs and why not every data center project is the right fit for every community. The episode explores the role of incentives, community engagement, and thoughtful planning in evaluating these projects, as well as how the rapid growth of AI could continue driving demand for data center infrastructure. A key takeaway? Communities don't have to be simply for or against data centers. The better approach is asking the right questions, understanding the trade-offs, and determining whether a project aligns with the community's long-term goals. Key Takeaways Data centers can create significant economic opportunities for communities Community concerns around power, water, noise, and land use must be addressed Not every data center project is the right fit for every community Incentives should be evaluated against long-term community benefits Public opinion toward data centers has changed dramatically AI is likely to continue driving demand for data center infrastructure Thoughtful planning and community engagement are critical to successful projects Key Topics Covered The growing opposition to data centers Economic benefits and community trade-offs Power and water requirements Land use and noise concerns Tax incentives and community benefits AI and the future of data center growth How communities can evaluate potential projects Sound Bites "Why does everyone hate data centers?" "Public opinion turned radically on data centers." "Not every project is a right fit for every community."

How can economic development professionals better connect with their communities and create a shared vision for regional success? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Mark Perna to discuss the importance of understanding the "why" behind economic development and creating stronger connections between communities, education, employers, and young people. Mark explains why younger generations want purpose and relevance, and how economic developers can help students understand the opportunities available to them long before they enter the workforce. The conversation explores early career exploration, career trees, and the importance of balancing academic achievement with technical and life skills. Another major focus is breaking down the silos that often exist between education, employers, economic development organizations, and community groups. Mark shares why bringing these stakeholders together is essential to building a workforce strategy that reflects the needs of the entire region. The conversation also highlights the power of storytelling. Mark explains how communities can use compelling stories to communicate their vision, attract talent and investment, and help residents understand why economic development matters. Throughout the episode, Dennis and Mark emphasize the importance of community engagement, experiential learning, and creating a shared rallying point that brings people together around a common vision. Key Takeaways Explaining the "why" creates stronger community engagement Early career exploration can help young people understand future opportunities Breaking down silos strengthens regional workforce development Storytelling can help communities attract talent and investment Education, employers, and economic developers must work together Experiential learning helps connect young people with real-world opportunities A shared community vision can create momentum for regional growth Taking action early is critical to building community buy-in Key Topics Covered The importance of explaining the "why" in economic development Career exploration and workforce development Connecting education, employers, and communities Breaking down silos between regional stakeholders Storytelling and community engagement Building a shared vision for regional success Engaging younger generations Strategies for bringing diverse stakeholders together Sound Bites "Are we good at explaining the 'why'?" "Young people refuse to waste their time." "You can be successful with a 2.5 GPA."

How will artificial intelligence change the way we work, lead, and build communities? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Dan Chuparkoff, AI keynote speaker and technology leader with more than 30 years of experience at Google and McKinsey, to explore the opportunities and challenges AI presents. Dan breaks down common misconceptions about AI, including why AI can sound confident while still being wrong. He explains how professionals can use AI as an assistant, coach, and productivity tool while keeping humans responsible for critical decisions. The conversation also explores how economic developers can use AI to improve research, communication, decision-making, and everyday tasks. Dan emphasizes that the skills that matter most in the AI era—problem solving, creativity, imagination, and good judgment—are uniquely human. The episode also looks ahead at AI's impact on jobs, robotics, leadership, and the future of work. Key Takeaways AI can dramatically improve productivity and reduce time spent on mundane tasks. AI-generated information should always be verified and vetted. Humans need to remain responsible for important decisions. Economic developers can use AI to improve research, communication, and problem solving. Creativity, imagination, and judgment will become increasingly valuable. AI and robotics will continue transforming the workplace. Key Topics Covered AI misconceptions and reliability Using AI as an assistant and coach AI in economic development Vetting AI-generated information The future of work and jobs Problem solving and creativity in the AI era Robotics and the next wave of AI innovation Sound Bites "AI is a B minus assistant." "Where humans should remain in charge of AI." "AI's impact on jobs and sectors."

What does it take to build a stronger community from the ground up? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Mason Ainsworth to explore his journey from young city councillor to passionate advocate for community development and economic growth. Mason shares lessons from his experience in local government and explains why economic development often comes down to relationships, trust, transparency, and achieving small victories that create long-term momentum. The conversation also explores the unique strengths and challenges of rural communities, including infrastructure, local leadership, placemaking, and creating communities where people want to live, work, and invest. Mason also discusses the importance of education, continuous learning, and attracting young professionals to the economic development field. He shares why great economic developers need strong people skills—and, most importantly, the ability to listen. Key Takeaways Strong relationships and community trust are essential to economic development. Small victories can create momentum for long-term community growth. Rural communities have unique assets and opportunities to leverage. Placemaking helps create communities where people want to live and invest. Listening and approachability are critical skills for economic developers. Young professionals have an important role in the future of the profession. Key Topics Covered Mason Ainsworth's journey into economic development Local government and community leadership Rural economic development Placemaking and quality of place Building relationships and community trust Recruiting young talent into economic development Education and continuous learning Podcasting and community engagement Sound Bites "You gotta kick the tires." "Most people don't wake up and say, I want to be an economic developer." "A great economic developer listens."

What happens when a community stops settling for "good enough" and starts thinking bigger? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise talks with former Fort Madison Mayor Matt Mohrfeld and Rick Kiernan of Convergent Nonprofit Solutions about the transformation of the Fort Madison Marina. What started as an aging marina became a much larger vision for the community, incorporating hospitality, events, wellness, tourism, and placemaking. Matt explains how community leaders studied other projects, built a shared vision, and challenged Fort Madison to think beyond simply fixing the existing marina. Rick discusses how the team turned that vision into a $12.7 million project through feasibility studies, community leadership, and a diverse capital stack that included public, private, and philanthropic support. The conversation also explores the importance of strong leadership, community ownership, and telling a compelling story when pursuing transformational projects. A key takeaway? Big community projects start with a bold vision and become reality when people come together to believe in it. Key Takeaways Think bigger than the original problem Build a shared community vision Strong leadership drives transformational projects Feasibility studies can strengthen fundraising Community ownership creates lasting impact Placemaking can support economic development Key Topics Covered Fort Madison Marina transformation Community vision and leadership Fundraising and capital stacks Placemaking and tourism Community engagement Economic and social impact Sound Bites "Swing for a home run, not a single." "People follow people." "You think bigger than you think you should think."

What can a career spanning sports, hospitality, tourism, and business development teach us about economic development? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Kirk Elmquist to explore his unconventional career journey and the leadership lessons he's learned along the way. Kirk shares why relationships are often more valuable than technical skills and how listening, trust, mentorship, and community involvement have shaped his approach to business and economic development. The conversation also explores the transformation of Branson and the Ozarks into a major tourism and golf destination, including the influence of Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops, and Big Cedar Lodge. Kirk also reflects on career setbacks, reinvention, and the importance of maintaining balance while continuing to grow personally and professionally. Key Takeaways Relationships and trust are foundational to economic development. Diverse career experiences can create valuable leadership perspectives. Branson's growth demonstrates the power of tourism and destination development. Career setbacks can become opportunities for reinvention. Mentorship and community involvement create lasting impact. Listening is one of the most important leadership skills. Key Topics Covered Kirk Elmquist's unconventional career journey Leadership and relationship building Branson's tourism and economic growth Golf and destination development Johnny Morris and Big Cedar Lodge Career setbacks, resilience, and reinvention Mentorship and community involvement Sound Bites "Listen twice as much as you speak." "Relationships are more important than skills." "Balance your physical, mental, spiritual, and financial tires."

What does it take to lead one of the world's most dynamic regional economies? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Stephen Cheung, CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), to discuss his unconventional journey from social work to leading one of the nation's largest economic development organizations. Stephen shares how his diverse career shaped his leadership style and explains why listening, collaboration, and long-term thinking are essential to building resilient communities. He also discusses how Los Angeles has leveraged its diversity, innovation, and global connections to remain one of the world's leading economic hubs. The conversation explores LA's competitive advantages, including its strength in international trade, aerospace, entertainment, life sciences, and emerging industries. Stephen also highlights the importance of infrastructure, foreign direct investment, and regional partnerships in supporting long-term economic growth. Another major focus is resilience. From natural disasters to economic disruptions, Stephen explains how communities can prepare for uncertainty while continuing to attract investment and create opportunities. He also shares how Los Angeles is preparing for the 2028 Olympic Games and other global events that will shape the region's future. Throughout the episode, Stephen reflects on the importance of relationship-building, global collaboration, and embracing new technologies like AI to stay competitive in a rapidly changing economy. A key takeaway? Strong regional economies are built through collaboration, resilience, and leaders who can unite diverse stakeholders around a shared vision. Key Takeaways Diverse industry clusters strengthen long-term economic resilience International trade and global partnerships remain critical to regional growth Infrastructure and collaboration drive sustainable economic development Preparing for major global events creates lasting economic opportunities AI and emerging technologies are reshaping economic development strategies Effective leadership begins with listening and building strong relationships Key Topics Covered Stephen Cheung's journey into economic development Los Angeles' diverse economy and industry clusters International trade and foreign direct investment Regional resilience and disaster recovery Preparing for the 2028 Olympic Games Leadership, collaboration, and future economic trends Sound Bites "Stephen Cheung's career path was not linear." "LA hosts multiple major sporting events and teams." "AI is a key trend for economic developers."

How do you build a stronger profession while helping communities thrive? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Jacqueline Brinkman, CEO of Economic Development Australia (EDA), to discuss the evolution of economic development in Australia and why collaboration, professional standards, and continuous learning are shaping the future of the industry. Jacqueline shares her career journey into economic development and reflects on the lessons she's learned leading Australia's national professional association. She explains how Economic Development Australia has expanded education, certification, and networking opportunities while strengthening the profession across the country. The conversation explores why collaboration—not competition—is one of the most important drivers of community success. Jacqueline discusses how building trust among stakeholders, encouraging knowledge sharing, and creating strong professional networks lead to better outcomes for communities and organizations alike. Dennis and Jacqueline also examine how crises such as the Australian bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated innovation, reinforced the importance of leadership, and highlighted the value of adaptable, resilient economic development organizations. Looking ahead, Jacqueline shares her perspective on the future of economic development, including the growing importance of international collaboration, professional certification, and developing the next generation of leaders equipped to solve increasingly complex economic challenges. A key takeaway? Economic development is strongest when professionals invest in collaboration, embrace lifelong learning, and build trusted relationships that create lasting community impact. Key Takeaways Collaboration consistently delivers stronger outcomes than competition. Professional standards and certification elevate the economic development profession. Trust and authentic relationships are the foundation of effective leadership. Crises can become opportunities for innovation and organizational growth. International collaboration accelerates learning and improves community outcomes. Saying "yes" to new opportunities often leads to unexpected career growth. Key Topics Covered Jacqueline Brinkman's journey into economic development The growth and mission of Economic Development Australia Professional certification and industry standards Building trust through collaboration Leading through crises and organizational change International partnerships and the future of economic development Sound Bites "Collaborate or die." "Say yes to opportunities." "Build a career by saying yes."

How can communities identify their greatest strengths and turn them into a competitive advantage? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Jeanette Goldsmith, President of Strategic Development Group, to discuss how communities can build a smarter asset strategy that attracts investment and supports long-term economic growth. Jeanette explains that successful economic development goes beyond available land and infrastructure. Communities must recognize both their tangible and intangible assets—from workforce and leadership to partnerships and organizational alignment—and understand how those strengths position them for future opportunities. A major focus of the conversation is the Economic Development Readiness Continuum: Stabilize, Strengthen, Prepare, and Compete. Jeanette walks through each stage, explaining how communities can assess their current position, reduce risk, and develop the capabilities needed to compete for investment. The discussion also explores common mistakes communities make, including trying to pursue every opportunity instead of focusing on industries and projects that align with their strengths. Jeanette emphasizes the importance of prioritization, collaboration, and realistic market positioning. Throughout the episode, she shares practical advice on aligning community assets with economic goals, improving organizational readiness, and balancing long-term planning with short-term wins. A key takeaway? The communities that succeed aren't the ones with the most assets—they're the ones that understand, align, and leverage their strengths with purpose. Key Takeaways Community assets include both physical infrastructure and intangible strengths Organizational alignment improves speed, execution, and competitiveness The Readiness Continuum helps communities prepare for sustainable growth Focused strategies outperform trying to chase every opportunity Understanding market realities leads to better investment decisions Long-term planning and continuous improvement drive lasting success Key Topics Covered Community asset strategy and economic development Tangible and intangible community assets The Economic Development Readiness Continuum Organizational alignment and collaboration Common asset strategy mistakes Prioritizing opportunities and building community competitiveness Sound Bites "Prepared communities know where they can win." "Intangible assets can really make a difference." "Communities that win are incredibly focused."

How can communities build entrepreneurial ecosystems that create lasting economic opportunity? In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with David Ponraj, Founder and CEO of Economic Impact Catalyst, to discuss his journey from immigrant entrepreneur to economic development leader and his mission to help communities build thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems. David shares how his experiences shaped his passion for creating pathways to prosperity and explains why supporting entrepreneurs is one of the most effective ways to drive long-term economic growth. He emphasizes that successful ecosystems go beyond programs—they connect people, resources, and opportunities to create lasting impact. The conversation explores the growing role of data, technology, and AI in economic development. David explains how communities can better measure outcomes, tell their success stories, and use technology to scale support for entrepreneurs while making smarter, data-driven decisions. Another major focus is the importance of serving rural and underserved communities. David discusses how innovation, collaboration, and ecosystem thinking can unlock opportunities regardless of a community's size or location. Throughout the episode, David offers practical advice for economic developers on moving beyond isolated initiatives, embracing outcome-based metrics, and preparing for the future of AI and workforce development. A key takeaway? Strong entrepreneurial ecosystems are built through collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and a shared commitment to creating opportunities for everyone. Key Takeaways Entrepreneurial ecosystems fuel long-term economic growth and innovation Data and impact measurement help communities improve and demonstrate results Technology and AI can expand access to entrepreneurial support Rural and underserved communities have unique strengths and opportunities Ecosystem building requires collaboration, not isolated programs Outcome-based strategies create more sustainable economic development Key Topics Covered David Ponraj's entrepreneurial journey Building entrepreneurial ecosystems Data, technology, and AI in economic development Measuring impact and telling community success stories Supporting rural and underserved communities The future of entrepreneurship and workforce development Sound Bites "Rising tide lifts all boats." "You cannot become poor in the process of becoming rich." "AI will free us from mundane tasks and focus on passions."