DT #515 2024 IEDC Annual Conference Recap And Review Develop This: Economic And Community Development podcast

39:07

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Ron Cole , PhD, the President of Allegheny College . They discuss the unique aspects of Allegheny College's liberal arts education, the importance of adapting to workforce needs, and the college's initiatives to engage with the local community and industry. Ron shares insights on the relevance of education in today's economy, the establishment of micro credentials, and the collaborative efforts with local businesses to enhance economic development in Meadville, Pennsylvania. The conversation highlights the significance of community partnerships and the role of higher education in fostering a thriving local economy. Takeaways Allegheny College offers a distinctive curriculum with major and minor combinations. Liberal arts education equips students with problem-solving and communication skills. Micro credentials are integrated into the curriculum to enhance employability. Industry partnerships are essential for aligning education with workforce needs. Community engagement is a priority for Allegheny College. The Allegheny Lab for Innovation and Creativity supports local economic development. Building relationships with local businesses is crucial for success. The Community Impact Hub connects students with real-world challenges. The Meadville Community Revitalization Corporation aims to enhance the local downtown area. Listening to community needs is key to effective collaboration.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #566 The Power of Collaboration in Economic Development - Tiffany Tauscheck President & CEO of Greater Des Moines Partnership 21:00

4 days ago21:00

21:00

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Tiffany Tauscheck , the president and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership . They discuss the organization's role in economic and community development across 12 counties in Iowa, highlighting the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Tiffany shares insights into the current economic climate, key industries driving growth, and the challenges and opportunities faced by the partnership. The conversation also touches on the significance of engaging rural communities, the power of regional collaboration, and Tiffany's leadership style. Takeaways The Greater Des Moines Partnership focuses on economic and community development. Collaboration across jurisdictions is key to success. The region has seen significant growth in economic development projects. Key industries include finance, manufacturing, and agriculture. Engaging rural communities is essential for regional cohesion. Listening tours helped identify community needs and foster relationships. The ICON Water Trails Project exemplifies successful regional collaboration. Talent recruitment and retention are ongoing priorities. The organization is committed to pro-growth strategies. Strong leadership and team dynamics are crucial for achieving goals.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #564 Tourism Is the First Date: Falling in Love With a Place – Reflections from Main Street Now in Philadelphia 38:40

11 days ago38:40

38:40

Episode Summary: In this Develop This! episode, Joi Cuartero Austin is joined by Erik Reader , Director of Illinois Main Street , to reflect on the 2025 Main Street Now Conference in Philadelphia—and explore how communities can spark connection and belonging with visitors. From bike rides through vibrant neighborhoods to high-energy welcomes from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, this year’s conference was more than just workshops—it was a fully immersive experience. Joi and Erik dive into how the conference format continues to evolve to inspire, connect, and equip economic development leaders. But beyond the conference buzz, the conversation turns to a bigger idea: What does it take for someone to fall in love with a place? Borrowing a tourism favorite—"the first date" analogy—the duo explores how a community’s vibe, downtown experience, and sense of hospitality can move someone from visitor to investor, new resident, or lifelong champion. Key Topics Covered: Highlights from Main Street Now 2025 in Philly Why Philadelphia felt like a “meet-cute” for many attendees How tourism can be the first step toward economic investment and relocation What makes downtowns powerful catalysts for community connection Practical strategies to make visitors feel welcomed and want to come back The role of hospitality, local partnerships, and intentional follow-up Building long-term relationships: from first impression to belonging "Those who visit first are more likely to return, invest, or even call your community home—so roll out the red carpet." https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SJIh_j5kRgqpj7DUfwZMjw…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #563 Exploring Roswell Georgia: A Hidden Gem & How to Effectively Use the Whova App at Conferences 20:55

11 days ago20:55

20:55

In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Steve Stroud , the president and CEO of Roswell Inc ., about the economic landscape of Roswell, Georgia, and the importance of strategic economic development. Steve shares insights into the city's growth. Steve also explains the role of the Whova app in enhancing networking at conferences and offers advice for maximizing conference experiences. The conversation highlights the significance of being present and engaged in both economic development and networking opportunities. Takeaways Roswell is a key economic driver in Fulton County. The city has a significant concentration of car sales. Healthcare is the leading industry in Roswell. Strategic targeting is essential for economic development. The Whova app enhances networking at conferences. Engagement in the app can lead to valuable connections. Being present at conferences is crucial for success. Networking should be purposeful and focused. First-time attendees should have clear objectives. Competition in networking can motivate engagement. https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SJIh_j5kRgqpj7DUfwZMjw…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #561 Economic Development Leadership Insights from Jim Fram 21:34

18 days ago21:34

21:34

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Dennis Fraise interviews Jim Fram , a seasoned economic development professional with over 30 years of experience. They discuss Jim's leadership style, the importance of listening, adapting to different community needs, and the significance of accreditation in economic development organizations. Jim shares insights on the pitfalls young leaders face, the value of volunteering, and his transition into consulting after retirement. The conversation concludes with Jim emphasizing the importance of benchmarking and continuous learning in leadership. Consultant & Economic Development LeaderConsultant & Economic Development Leader Community Growth Strategies, LLC · Takeaways Jim Fram is a highly accomplished economic development professional. Leadership is often only evident when it is poor. Listening more than talking is crucial for effective leadership. Adapting leadership style to different communities is essential. Young leaders should avoid making sudden moves. Accreditation validates organizational practices and ethics. Personal credentials enhance professional reputation. Volunteering allows experienced leaders to give back. Consulting can be a fulfilling post-retirement career. Benchmarking with other organizations is vital for growth.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT # 562 Exploring Odessa, Texas: A Hub of Economic Development - Tom Manskey 20:11

18 days ago20:11

20:11

Summary In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise speaks with Tom Manskey , the Director of Economic Development for the Odessa Development Corporation . They discuss the unique economic landscape of Odessa, Texas, especially its reliance on the oil and gas industry, the importance of diversifying the economy, and the emerging focus on green energy initiatives. Tom shares insights into the growth of the healthcare and education sectors, the community's quality of life, and the challenges and opportunities presented by the current economic conditions. The conversation highlights Odessa's potential for future growth and development. Takeaways Odessa is a significant player in the oil and gas industry, contributing 40% of the U.S. output. Economic diversification is crucial for Odessa's long-term sustainability. The Permian Basin has a rich history and a promising future in energy production. Green energy initiatives are gaining traction in Texas, complementing traditional energy sources. A major direct air carbon capture facility is being developed in Odessa. The healthcare and education sectors are growing rapidly in the region. Quality of life improvements are essential for attracting new residents and businesses. Workforce development is a priority to meet the needs of local employers. Odessa's community spirit and work ethic are key assets for economic development. The future of Odessa looks bright with ongoing projects and investments.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #560 Building a Rally Point in Your Community - Mark Perna 37:37

25 days ago37:37

37:37

Summary In this Develop This! episode, Dennis and Mark Perna discuss the crucial importance of uniting communities around shared goals and achieving genuine consensus. They explore the challenges of building consensus in a polarized world, the significance of understanding younger generations, and the necessity of delivering education with purpose. Mark emphasizes the need to break down silos and create a competitive advantage for communities by connecting education and employment. The conversation outlines actionable steps for transitioning from collaboration to consensus, ultimately fostering a thriving community. Takeaways A rallying point is essential for community progress. Understanding young people's perspectives is crucial for economic development. Consensus is necessary for actionable outcomes in communities. Collaboration without consensus leads to stagnation. Education must be relevant and purposeful to engage younger generations. Communities need to connect educational pipelines to workforce needs. Passion is found through resilience and grit, not just interest. Breaking down silos is key to community growth and development. Hope can be cultivated through actionable steps and understanding. Engaging young people can transform community dynamics.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #559 Achieving AEDO Accreditation: A Journey of Excellence - Bill Cronin 19:01

25 days ago19:01

19:01

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Bill Cronin , the President and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council . They discuss the Council’s recent achievement of becoming an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) . Bill shares insights into the motivations for pursuing AEDO accreditation, the rigorous application process, and the team's involvement. He emphasizes the significance of ethics training and explains the preparation required for the site visit, as well as the importance of engaging stakeholders. The conversation also highlights the recognition the organization has received from the community and offers advice for other organizations considering the AEDO process. Takeaways The AEDO accreditation is a significant achievement for economic development organizations. Accreditation provides a quality seal of approval for organizations. The application process requires thorough documentation and team collaboration. Ethics training is an essential component of the accreditation process. Engaging stakeholders is crucial during the site visit preparation. The site visit allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the organization. Receiving the AEDO designation boosts morale and recognition within the community. Feedback from stakeholders can reveal positive aspects of the organization. The accreditation process encourages continuous improvement. Organizations should not hesitate to pursue AEDO accreditation.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #558 Unlocking Economic Development: The OUEDI Experience - Courtney Dunbar 15:59

5 weeks ago15:59

15:59

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Courtney Dunbar , the Dean of the OU Economic Development Institute (OUEDI). They discuss the importance of OUEDI in promoting knowledge in economic development, the program's structure and curriculum, and the unique experiences it offers. Courtney highlights the significance of networking and mentorship in the field, emphasizing that learning from experienced practitioners is invaluable. She also notes the lasting connections that participants form during the program and encourages listeners to consider enrolling in OUEDI for their professional growth. Takeaways OUEDI provides a platform for mid-career economic developers to enhance their skills. Networking is a key benefit of attending OUEDI, fostering lifelong connections. The curriculum includes core areas and electives tailored to individual interests. Instructors at OUEDI are experienced practitioners, not just academics. The program prepares students for certification and real-world application. OUEDI emphasizes mentorship and support for students during and after the program. The experience at OUEDI is designed to be collaborative and engaging. Students leave with practical knowledge applicable to their communities. OUEDI has a close relationship with IEDC, enhancing the curriculum. Graduating from OUEDI is seen as a significant accomplishment in the field.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #557 Building Bridges: The St. Louis BRE Initiative 27:26

5 weeks ago27:26

27:26

Summary In this episode of the Develop This podcast, Dennis interviews Jason Archer , the Vice President of Business Development for the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership . They discuss the importance of business retention and expansion (BRE) programs, particularly the innovative regional BRE committee established during the pandemic. Jason shares insights on building trust among economic development partners, the structure of their outreach efforts, and the challenges faced in maintaining collaboration. The conversation highlights the significance of data collection, quantifying success, and practical advice for other organizations looking to implement similar initiatives. Takeaways The St. Louis Partnership focuses on economic development for the city and county. Business retention and expansion (BRE) is a key pillar of economic development. The regional BRE committee was formed during the pandemic to enhance outreach efforts. Trust-building among economic development partners is crucial for collaboration. Companies appreciate streamlined communication from multiple agencies in one meeting. Regular meetings and centralized scheduling improve efficiency in outreach. Data collection is essential for understanding company needs and measuring success. Challenges include managing outreach frequency and overcoming company hesitance. Formalizing processes can help in establishing effective BRE programs. Sharing success metrics fosters accountability and collaboration among partners.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #556 The “Why” Behind Downtown Revitalization Strategies: Building Community from the Ground Up 29:04

6 weeks ago29:04

29:04

In this episode, Joi Cuartero Austin sits down with Erik Reader , director of Illinois Main Street, to explore how communities are shaping effective downtown economic development strategies—and more importantly, why these strategies work in their specific context. From humble beginnings rooted in community engagement to long-term sustainability planning, this conversation unpacks the real-world process of revitalizing a downtown district with purpose, people, and partnerships. “You’ve got to bring people alongside—not just for buy-in, but for co-ownership.” 1. Think long-term: strategies should outlast leadership transitions 2. Build programs that allow public and private sectors to partner meaningfully 3. Listen deeply: alignment with people is as important as alignment with funding 4. Track the vibe: excitement, curiosity, and positivity are leading indicators of success Laying the Groundwork 1. The importance of starting with community development 2. Strategies to build momentum and foster ownership 3. Engaging leaders, stakeholders, and residents in authentic ways The Strategy in Action 1. What communities are doing to activate and sustain downtown revitalization 2. The critical role of funding, partnerships, and shared leadership 3. Empowering people through collaboration and participation Understanding the “Why” 1. Why certain strategies are successful in some places and not in others 2. How to align initiatives with local identity, values, and funding tools like TIF 3. The power of ego-free partnerships and sustainability planning Results & Reflections 1. Indicators that show a community is on the right path 2. Stories of energy, enthusiasm, and openness to change 3. Lessons learned from communities that are building trust and momentum…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #555 Understanding Agriculture and Egg Prices in America - Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig 37:24

6 weeks ago37:24

37:24

Summary In this episode of Develop This, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses his journey to his current role, the importance of Iowa's agricultural production, and the challenges faced by farmers today. He emphasizes the balance between increasing agricultural output and sustainable land stewardship, the impact of tariffs on agriculture, and the safety nets in place for farmers. Naig also addresses the challenges in the egg production industry, particularly due to avian influenza , and the consolidation within the industry. He concludes with a call for greater consumer awareness and appreciation for the work of farmers. Takeaways Mike Naig has served as Iowa's Secretary of Agriculture since 2018. Iowa ranks second in agricultural production in the U.S., only behind California. The Iowa Department of Agriculture focuses on land stewardship, food safety, and consumer protection. Farmers face significant challenges, including weather and market fluctuations. Tariffs can disrupt agricultural markets and impact prices. The farm safety net is crucial for maintaining food security in the U.S. Egg prices have risen due to increased production costs and avian influenza outbreaks. Avian influenza has led to significant losses in poultry production. Consolidation in the egg industry has raised concerns about profit distribution. Consumer awareness of agricultural processes is essential for supporting farmers.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #554 Navigating the Complexities of Tariffs on the North American Auto Industry - Flavio Volpe 31:43

7 weeks ago31:43

31:43

Summary In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise speaks with Flavio Volpe , president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association (APMA) in Canada. They discuss the historical ties between the Canadian and US automotive industries, the integration of the North American auto supply chain, the current state of tariffs and their impact on the industry, and the future of the Canadian auto parts sector. Flavio emphasizes the importance of collaboration and understanding between the two countries to navigate the complexities of trade and tariffs. Takeaways Flavio Volpe is the president of the APMA, representing Canada's automotive sector. The historical relationship between Canada and the US auto industries dates back to 1904. Canada plays a significant role in the North American auto supply chain, with many parts crossing borders multiple times. Tariffs imposed on auto parts can severely impact the industry, threatening jobs and production. The Canadian auto parts industry is intricately tied to US and Mexican operations, employing thousands across North America. Free trade agreements have allowed for significant investment and growth in the Canadian auto sector. The integration of the automotive supply chain means that parts come from various countries, not just the US and Canada. The future of the Canadian auto parts industry depends on maintaining strong trade relations with the US. Trust and collaboration are essential for navigating the current trade environment. The Canadian auto sector has a symbiotic relationship with the US, and both countries benefit from this partnership.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #553 Explosive Growth in Pasco County, Florida: Opportunities and Challenges 21:04

7 weeks ago21:04

21:04

Summary In this episode, Dennis Fraise speaks with Bill Cronin , the President and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council , about the explosive growth in Pasco County, Florida. They discuss the opportunities and challenges that come with rapid development, the evolution of the local economy, and the importance of balancing growth with community needs. Bill shares insights on how the county has transformed from a bedroom community to a hub for new industries, the impact of COVID-19 on migration patterns, and the necessity of strategic planning to ensure sustainable growth. The conversation also touches on the importance of partnerships, workforce development, and the vision for Pasco County's future. Takeaways Pasco County is experiencing rapid growth, being the third fastest growing county in the U.S. The growth has been significantly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, with people seeking more space. Pasco has transitioned from a bedroom community to a more diverse economy. The county is focusing on creating jobs locally to reduce commuting and congestion. Balancing density with quality of life is crucial for sustainable development. Gentrification and transportation issues are significant challenges that need addressing. The economic development strategy must evolve to meet the changing needs of the community. Collaboration with various stakeholders is essential for effective economic development. Investing in the younger generation is vital for future growth and sustainability. The future vision for Pasco County includes a focus on life sciences and environmental conservation.…

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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DT #552 The National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA) 24:06

8 weeks ago24:06