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Walking artist Jonathon Stalls, author of WALK and creator of Pedestrian Dignity, joins us to explore how walking or using a wheelchair changes how we see and experience a community. We talk about his cross-country walks, the art they inspired, and what we learn when we experience places through the eyes of people who aren’t driving. Jonathon shares how slowing down creates space for connection, creativity, and a deeper understanding of place. We also discuss what it means to build communities that treat people moving outside of cars with dignity. Connect with Jonathan and his work at the links below: WALK Book Intrinsic Paths Patreon Intrinsic Paths Website Intrinsic Paths Instagram Pedestrian Dignity Tik Tok Pedestrian Dignity Instagram Jonathon Stalls LinkedIn Jonathon Stalls Instagram

In this episode, Ryan talks with Storyville founder Phil Eich about the power of telling the real stories of people and places. Phil describes himself not as a storyteller, but a “story advocate,” helping people share stories that might otherwise go untold. They explore the impact those stories can have on individuals and communities, how thousands of individual stories collectively shape the story of a place, and why cities can actually lose their story when they try too hard to control it. Because every place is one of one, and the strongest story is usually the one that’s already there. https://storyville.substack.com/ https://www.storyvillecities.com/

In this episode, Ryan talks with Ilana Preuss, author of Recast Your City, about the role small-scale manufacturing can play in building stronger, more authentic downtowns. They explore how what a place makes can be a powerful expression of its identity, why makers and producers are often the missing piece in downtown revitalization, and why the answer to a thriving downtown isn’t always more retail.

Universities are often one of a community's greatest assets, yet many cities, destinations, and campuses still have opportunities to work together more intentionally. In this episode, Ryan sits down with Mike Hooker, founder of Hooker Strategy Partners and former Colorado State University chief spokesperson, to explore how stronger town-and-gown partnerships can create more vibrant communities, stronger destination brands, and better experiences for residents, students, and visitors alike. The conversation opens with Fort Collins, Colorado's connection to Disney's Main Street, U.S.A. and why the city's walkable downtown continues to be celebrated by urbanists. From there, Ryan and Mike discuss how DMOs, city leaders, chambers, and universities can move beyond co-marketing to become true civic partners through shared storytelling, collaborative programming, and long-term place strategy. Drawing on Mike's experience as an Emmy Award-winning journalist, higher education communications leader, Visit Fort Collins board member, and instructor at Colorado State University, the conversation offers practical ideas for communities looking to strengthen the relationship between campus and community. If your city is home to a college or university, this episode is full of ideas for building stronger partnerships and making the most of one of your community's most valuable assets. Mike Hooker on LinkedIn Hooker Strategy Partners

In this episode I sit down with Melissa and Chris Bruntlett from Delft, Netherlands, urban mobility advocates and co-authors of Women Changing Cities. We explore how infrastructure shapes our daily lives, identities, and opportunities, and why the most successful cities often reflect a broader understanding of who public spaces are designed to serve. Our conversation examines the connections between leadership, transportation, public life, and the challenges facing cities today. Melissa and Chris share stories from their work and research, highlighting how thoughtful investments in mobility and public space can create healthier, more connected, and more resilient communities. If you care about the future of cities, the role of infrastructure in shaping human behavior, or how leadership can help build places that work better for everyone, this episode is for you. You can find Melissa & Chris and more about their work here: Modacity Life (website) Modacity Life (Instagram) Modacity Creative Dutch Cycling Embassy (Instagram) Chris Bruntlett (Llinkedin) Melissa Bruntlett (Linkedin)

In this episode I sit down with Richard Lindberg from Stockholm Sweden, founder of One Planet Journey. We explore the idea of "deep travel " and what it means for travelers and destinations, and why the role of locals is essential to meaningful experiences. Our conversation goes beyond sustainability and into intentionality. What do we actually want out of travel? Are we chasing a checklist, a photo, or someone else’s bucket list? Or are we seeking connection, understanding, and a deeper relationship with the places we visit? Richard shares how Deep Travel invites us to slow down, engage with local communities, and rethink our impact in a time of environmental and cultural change. If you care about traveling with more purpose and less pressure, or about managing and shaping destinations that foster deeper, more meaningful experiences, this episode is for you.

In this episode we're joined by Jamie Sabbach, founder of 110%, to discuss the critical intersection of parks, recreation, and financial sustainability. We dive into the challenges cities face in balancing community wants with fiscal responsibility and the importance of smart, long-term financial planning. Jamie highlights the need for better public education around tax allocation and the true costs of maintaining public spaces, advocating for more responsible local government spending. The conversation explores how parks shape community identity and how elected officials must navigate difficult financial decisions to ensure sustainable public services for future generations.

In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of talent attraction with Monica Hershberger and Kate Wilson from Role Call. As the world of work shifts, we explore how remote work has changed the game for communities and businesses striving to attract and retain top talent. Monica and Kate share their insights on the strategies that successful communities and companies are using, the role of quality of life and placemaking in talent retention, and how talent attraction efforts reflect a community’s identity. Plus, we look into the crystal ball to discuss what the future holds for talent attraction strategy and economic development.

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Andreasen of aQity Research to demystify the world of engagement data. We discuss statistically valid surveys (and some of the confusion around them), unpack the nuanced relationship between sample size and representative samples, and delve into the critical role of weighting survey responses to ensure data reflects the true diversity of a community. Whether you’re a city planner, leader, or simply curious about making data-driven decisions, this conversation provides a fresh perspective on how to truly understand and engage communities.

In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Still to hear his  story of Lost Lake, a once a hidden gem cherished for its tranquility, now become a popular spot  due to social media exposure. Brandon shares his thoughts on how the influencer that promoted Lost Lake described it as "the perfect escape" which highlights a deeper issue: Why are we building cities and places that people feel the need to escape from? Drawing from his experience in running and consulting on co-working spaces in small towns, Brandon discusses the importance of community and how it’s the connection between people, not just the place itself, that truly matters.

In this episode, we sit down with Jaime Izurieta, author of the new book "Main Street Mavericks," to delve into the world of experience design and its pivotal role in the success of Main Street businesses. In a landscape increasingly dominated by online giants, creating memorable experiences for customers has become more crucial than ever. Jaime shares his expertise on how businesses and community leaders can harness the power of experience design to thrive in today's competitive market. Discover practical strategies, inspiring anecdotes, and actionable insights as we explore the art of crafting unforgettable experiences that keep customers coming back, drive community engagement, and propel Main Street businesses to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a budding small business owner, or a main street manager this episode offers invaluable wisdom for navigating the ever-evolving terrain of modern commerce. Tune in and learn how to transform your business into a destination that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits.

In this episode, Brisa Byford from CivicBrand sits down with High Point, NC City Councilman Michael Holmes to delve into the complexities of public engagement and leadership. They explore the challenges of balancing the needs of the community with the voices that shout the loudest, and discuss the delicate art of acting in the best interest of the public while navigating the intricacies of place branding. Tune in as Councilman Holmes offers a unique perspective on the role of elected officials in fostering meaningful engagement and shaping the identity of their city.

In this episode, we're joined by Nate Storring of Project for Public Spaces as we dive into the transformative power of public spaces and the role of placemaking. From Community Placemaking Grants, Training, Market Cities Program and the upcoming Placemaking Week we dive into the world of Project for Public Spaces.

In this episode, we're joined by Adam Williams, a seasoned podcaster and journalist who is at the helm of the "We Are Chaffee" podcast. Together, we delve deep into the pivotal role of storytelling in community development, uncovering the barriers, tips, and best practices for launching storytelling initiatives that truly make an impact. Adam shares his experiences and insights into how storytelling can be a catalyst for change within communities, breaking down the barriers that often hinder progress.  Whether you're an aspiring podcaster, community leader, or simply passionate about the power of narrative, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we delve into the relationship between cities and brands. Join us as we explore how place, culture, and the identity of a city influence the creation and growth of brands, and conversely, how brands can impact and shape the very essence of a city. We are thrilled to have Hunter Harlow, co-founder of Sendero Provisions, as our special guest.  Tune in to discover what cities need to do to foster an environment where brands can thrive, and how these thriving brands, in turn, become cultural ambassadors for their locales. Whether you're a city planner, entrepreneur, fan of Sendero, or simply curious about the interplay between commerce and culture, this episode is a must-listen.