Develop This: Economic and Community Development

In this episode of the Develop This! podcast, host Dennis Fraise dives into the newly released 2025 State of Site Selection annual report with guests Michelle Comerford from the Site Selectors Guild and Robyn Domber from Development Counsellors International. Together, they unpack the trends shaping facility location decisions and explore their implications for economic and community development professionals. From the growing weight of risk factors such as policy shifts and tariffs to the pressing need for ready sites with robust infrastructure, the conversation explores how organizations can prepare for an increasingly complex site selection landscape. They also discuss the rising importance of reputation, including how community pushback can derail projects, and why proactive community engagement is now a must-have strategy. Whether you’re working to attract new investment or help your community stay competitive, this episode delivers practical insights grounded in real-world data from the Guild’s annual report. Key Takeaways: The Site Selectors Guild has published the State of Site Selection report annually since 2024. Risk—particularly in areas such as policy, tariffs, and uncertainty—is shaping decisions. Readiness—infrastructure, utilities, and shovel-ready sites—remains essential. Reputation and local pushback can create major hurdles for projects. Community engagement is critical to addressing concerns and building support. The report provides a clear and shareable resource for stakeholders. Site selectors are modeling multiple scenarios to help clients navigate uncertainty. Enhancing quality of life is key to attracting and retaining talent.  

Summary In this episode of the Develop This! Podcast, Dennis Fraise is joined by Ashley Canada and Eric Canada for part two of their four-part series on building an AI blueprint. The discussion zeroes in on the critical role of AI audits in shaping a business’s technology strategy. Training and governance are central elements integrated with an audit. From identifying broken processes to uncovering hidden inefficiencies, they explain why audits serve as a “health check” for organizational systems. They highlight the importance of understanding operations before implementing AI, measuring ROI to ensure real results, and preparing for common challenges such as disconnected data. Whether you’re leading a small business or managing large-scale operations, this conversation sheds light on how AI audits can maximize efficiency, reduce risk, and unlock new opportunities. Key Takeaways AI audits help uncover inefficiencies in business processes. Understanding operations is a prerequisite for AI success. An AI audit functions like a health check for business systems. Common challenges include broken processes and disconnected data. Measuring ROI is essential for validating AI investments. Skipping audits can lead to wasted resources and missed opportunities. Customer service and marketing are high-potential areas for ROI. Audits often reveal surprising hidden inefficiencies. Training and education are critical to sustainable AI adoption. AI audits apply to businesses of all sizes and industries.

In this episode of the Develop This! Podcast Dennis Fraise sits down with Michelle Comerford, Chair of the Site Selectors Guild, to discuss the Guild’s expanding role in shaping economic development strategies worldwide. Michelle shares the Guild’s mission, the rigorous vetting process for membership, and how its 72 members, located across the globe, bring unmatched expertise to corporate location strategy. The conversation explores the Guild’s networking opportunities, global reach, and upcoming events, including the State of Site Selection annual report and the innovative REDI Sites program. Listeners will gain insight into how the Guild partners with economic developers to strengthen communities, create growth opportunities, and set the standard for professional excellence in site selection.  Key Takeaways ·        The Site Selectors Guild is a trusted, vetted network of professionals driving corporate location decisions. ·        Membership is highly selective—only the best earns a seat at the table. ·        With 72 global members, the Guild brings international expertise to local economic development efforts. ·        Networking at Guild events opens doors for partnerships and insights. ·        The State of Site Selection annual report offers critical data and trends for developers. ·        The REDI Sites program evaluates site readiness, giving communities a competitive edge. ·        A new Certified Site Selection Consultant credential is on the horizon. ·        The Guild’s leadership prioritizes continuous improvement and stronger engagement with economic developers.  

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping industries, but success requires more than adopting new tools. In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise joins Ashley and Eric Canada to unveil the AI Transformation Blueprint—a strategic framework for navigating AI adoption with clarity and confidence.   Together, they explore how organizations can move beyond experimenting with countless AI solutions. This conversation focuses on building structured workflows, fostering continuous learning, and implementing guardrails that protect your reputation and resources.   Listeners gain actionable strategies for comprehensive AI approaches, aligning priorities, budgets, and talent development with innovation goals, to transform AI from overwhelming technology into a strategic advantage.   Blane Canada AI   Takeaways Start with an audit of your daily tasks to identify pain points. Focus on understanding your workflow before diving into AI tools. Training is essential for both leadership and team members. Establish a clear AI strategy that includes operational, talent, and budget considerations. Involve the entire team in AI training to foster a collaborative learning environment. Guardrails are necessary to protect organizational reputation and budget. Avoid analysis paralysis by taking actionable steps towards AI implementation. Recognize the potential risks associated with AI and plan accordingly. Utilize existing tools that may already have AI capabilities. Seek expert guidance to navigate the complexities of AI adoption.  

🎙️ Show Description The future of work is undergoing a profound generational shift, and Gen Z is at the forefront of this transformation. In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis and Mark Perna explore how Gen Z’s entrepreneurial mindset, focus on technology, and demand for authenticity are reshaping workforce dynamics. With Millennials and Gen Z projected to make up 75% of the workforce by 2030, organizations must rethink leadership, mentorship, and talent strategies to remain competitive. This conversation provides actionable insights on building trust-driven leadership, fostering intergenerational collaboration, and creating workplace cultures that attract and retain the next generation of leaders. Mark Perna - Forbes articles  Takeaways Gen Z will make up 30% of the workforce by 2030. 75% of the workforce will be Gen Z and Millennials by 2030. 84% of Gen Z wants to be entrepreneurs, viewing it as safer than corporate jobs. Younger generations prioritize work-life blend over traditional work-life balance. Technology choices significantly influence Gen Z's employment decisions. Gen Z prefers real-time feedback over annual performance reviews. Leadership must be built on trust and mutual respect. Mentorship is crucial for bridging generational gaps in the workplace. Younger generations value authenticity and transparency in leadership. The future workforce will need to solve complex societal issues.

Why start from scratch when you can buy your way to success? 🎙️ Harvard Business School’s Richard Ruback & Royce Yudkoff share their blueprint for entrepreneurship through acquisition, spotting high-value businesses, and raising capital. 🎧 Listen now: Think Big, Buy Small: Harvard’s Blueprint for Business Ownership Harvard Business School professors Richard Ruback and Royce Yudkoff join Dennis Fraise to unpack their groundbreaking approach to entrepreneurship through acquisition. Learn how buying an established business can be a smarter, lower-risk path to ownership, the secrets to spotting high-value companies, and strategies for raising capital. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or future CEO, this episode offers a Harvard-backed blueprint for building wealth and leading with confidence. HBR Guide to Buying a Small Business Takeaways Entrepreneurship through acquisition offers a lower-risk alternative to startups. Successful entrepreneurs often seek professional independence and a direct link between effort and reward. Assessing fit is crucial; entrepreneurs should envision themselves in the role of CEO. Recurring revenue and high margins are key indicators of a quality business. Dull businesses can be highly profitable and manageable for entrepreneurs. Raising capital for acquisitions can come from various sources, including investors and SBA loans. The search process can be challenging, with many rejections before success. Understanding the market and industry is essential for finding the right business to acquire. Investors are increasingly interested in funding acquisition searches due to attractive returns. The upcoming season of 'Think Big, Buy Small' will explore diverse entrepreneurial journeys and niches.

Summary In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise and Rick Kiernan with Convergent Nonprofit Solutions discuss the evolving landscape of funding for economic development organizations. They explore the shift from traditional funding methods to a focus on workforce development, housing, placemaking, and childcare. Rick shares insights from his extensive experience in fundraising and highlights the importance of feasibility studies in understanding community needs. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of having a well-structured plan to attract funding and support for various initiatives that enhance community appeal and address workforce challenges. Takeaways Economic development funding has evolved significantly over the years. Workforce development is now the primary focus for economic development organizations. Feasibility studies provide critical insights into community needs. Housing shortages are a major barrier to attracting talent. Placemaking is increasingly important for community attractiveness. Childcare availability directly impacts workforce participation. Community engagement is essential for successful fundraising campaigns. Economic development organizations must adapt to changing priorities. Collaboration with local stakeholders enhances fundraising efforts. A well-defined plan is crucial for securing funding and support.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Hugh McDonald, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce, as he shares his journey from the utility sector to leading state commerce. Discover the challenges, achievements, and future plans for Arkansas's economic development. Key Points: Hugh McDonald's transition from Entergy to the Secretary of Commerce The creation and impact of the IMPACT legislative package Challenges and opportunities in Arkansas's economic landscape The role of the private sector and local communities in economic growth  Future goals for Arkansas in steel, lithium, and workforce development

In this episode of Develop This! Dennis is joined by Maureen Donahue Krauss, President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Partnership, and they discuss Detroit today and the upcoming 2025 IEDC Annual Conference in Detroit.   Get ready for an exciting preview of the 2025 IEDC Annual Conference in Detroit! This episode offers a sneak peek into the anticipated sessions, keynote speakers, and innovative topics that will shape the future of economic development. Join us as we explore what to expect from this year's conference, including transformative projects, cutting-edge strategies, and the latest industry trends. Don't miss this opportunity to prepare for an event that promises to inspire and inform.  Online Registration Cut-off: August 29, 2025 Keynote Speakers: Discover who will be leading the discussions with insights from top industry leaders. Innovative Sessions: Explore the cutting-edge topics and strategies that will be covered. Transformative Projects: Learn about the projects that are set to reshape the economic landscape. Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and experts from around the world. Latest Trends: Stay ahead with the newest trends in economic development.  

Episode Description: Join us in this insightful episode as Dennis welcomes back Mark Perna, a regular contributor to Forbes, to discuss the evolving landscape of networking. Discover how Gen Z is reshaping networking norms, the importance of genuine connections, and strategies to stand out in today's competitive job market.  Key Takeaways: Gen Z's approach to networking: moving beyond cold calls and coffee chats. The significance of building a personal competitive advantage. Networking myths debunked: quality over quantity in connections. Practical tips for making networking fun and effective.

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise is joined by Eric Canada and Ashley Canada to discuss the importance of AI literacy and its implications for economic development. They explore the origins of their AI workshops, the challenges of understanding AI, and the necessity of starting with personal applications. The conversation delves into effective prompting techniques, tools for engagement, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI usage. They also highlight the future of AI as a significant disruptor and the importance of education in navigating this landscape. The Everyman AI Advantage Tour Takeaways AI literacy is critically low, with only about 5% of users being proficient. Starting with personal applications of AI can ease the learning curve. Effective prompting is essential for maximizing AI responses. AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude serve different purposes and outputs. Organizations need a clear strategy for integrating AI into their operations. Ethical considerations in AI usage are paramount to ensure responsible application. AI presents both opportunities and challenges for economic development organizations. Education and training are vital for adapting to AI advancements. The future of AI will require proactive engagement from all sectors. Workshops can provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge for users.

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Bethany Miller, a Senior Economic Development Consultant at Hickey Global. They discuss Bethany's unique career path, her experiences in various economic development roles, and the skills necessary for success in the field. Bethany shares insights on navigating career transitions, her time at Amazon, and the current state of economic development, including the impact of AI. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and continuous learning in a demanding profession, offering valuable advice for newcomers to the field. Takeaways Bethany's journey into economic development began with a suggestion from her advisor. She emphasizes the importance of humility and continuous learning in her career. Bethany's experience at Amazon involved bridging communication between the company and communities. Economic development is evolving rapidly, influenced by political and economic changes. AI has potential uses in economic development, but human expertise remains crucial. Networking and involvement in professional organizations can enhance career growth. Self-care is essential in a demanding career like economic development. Curiosity and asking questions are vital for professional development. Career transitions can be beneficial for gaining diverse experiences. Bethany encourages newcomers to embrace opportunities and serve their communities.

In this special episode, Joi Cuartero Austin of Main Street America sits down with colleagues Erik Reader and Jonathan Stone to reflect on their experience at the IEDC Rural Retreat in Great Falls, Montana. They discuss the power of data, the importance of people-powered revitalization, and how Main Street strategies are showing up in economic development conversations like never before. From hype teams and alleyway dance parties to building inventories and rural entrepreneurship, this conversation dives deep into what it means to breathe new life into rural communities—and how Main Street can lead the way.  

Summary In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise interviews Clint O'Neill, the executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. They discuss the importance of economic development in small towns, highlighting success stories of major companies like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and Murphy USA. Clint shares insights on the role of the timber and agriculture industries in Arkansas's economy, the state's competitive advantages, and the importance of workforce development. The conversation emphasizes the need for strong relationships and community support in fostering economic growth and attracting new businesses. Takeaways Clint O'Neill leads the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. Economic development is achievable in small towns. Bentonville's growth is tied to Walmart's success. Murphy USA provides free college for local students. Arkansas is a leading rice producer in the US. Strong relationships are key to economic development success. Arkansas has a low cost of living and high quality of life. Workforce development is crucial for future economic growth. The timber industry is a significant economic driver in Arkansas. Arkansas is experiencing population growth and economic success.

Summary In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise is joined by Joe April with Convergent Nonprofit Solutions and Dr. John Rainone, President of Mountain Gateway Community College, to discuss the vital role of community colleges in workforce development. They share personal stories highlighting the transformative impact of community colleges, explore how these institutions are adopting entrepreneurial approaches to meet workforce needs, and discuss emerging trends in workforce development. The conversation also covers the importance of grants and public-private partnerships, the need for shared resources, and the challenges of collaboration among economic developers and educational institutions. The episode concludes with practical advice for economic developers on building relationships with community colleges.  Takeaways Community colleges significantly impact individual lives and workforce development. Personal stories highlight the transformative power of education. Entrepreneurial approaches are essential for community colleges to meet workforce needs. Emerging trends include a focus on virtual options and apprenticeships. Public-private partnerships are crucial for funding workforce initiatives. Shared resources among colleges can enhance program offerings. Collaboration can be challenging, but it is necessary for success. Economic developers should actively engage with community college leaders. Diversifying revenue streams is vital for sustainability. Community colleges are valuable partners in economic development

Summary In this episode, Dennis and Mark Perna discuss the essential professional skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven workplace. They explore the importance of communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and other skills that will set individuals apart in the evolving job market. Mark emphasizes that while AI is a powerful tool, it cannot replace the human touch and the unique skills that people bring to the table. The conversation highlights the need for continuous development of these skills to stay relevant and effective in the workplace. Takeaways AI is a tool that enhances human capabilities, not a replacement. Communication skills are paramount in the workplace. Teamwork is essential, especially in remote settings. Verbal and written communication must be clear and effective. Organizational skills help manage personal and professional tasks. Interpersonal skills foster connections and engagement. Computer literacy is crucial for leveraging technology effectively. Leadership is about inspiring and guiding others, not just authority. Problem-solving skills are highly sought after by employers. Attention to detail can prevent costly mistakes and ensure success. 10 Professional Skills You Need To Stay Ahead Of The AI Curve 1. Communication Skills No surprises here. Communication seems to top every list of soft skills ever compiled. The ability to communicate clearly prevents costly misunderstandings and mistakes, reducing frustration and burnout on teams. Clear communication not only allows you to convey your ideas and needs effectively, but also helps you listen actively to what others are saying. It’s little wonder that this skill is in such high demand across all industries. 2. Effective Teamwork Whether you work in person or remotely, the quality of the team you’re on can make or break your experience. Strong teams are simply more effective than those distracted by infighting or simply disengaged. That’s why being able to work well with others is a skill that will elevate you above other candidates. The good news is, you can practice being a strong team member even if others on your team aren’t by taking initiative. 3. Verbal Communication It’s interesting that among the top four soft skills Pearson uncovered, three have to do with communication. Verbal communication is growing in value while return-to-office mandates increase, bringing employees into face-to-face contact perhaps more than any other time in the last five years. Being able to communicate effectively in person isn’t just about how well you speak. It’s also how well you make eye contact, listen to others and express interest in their point of view. 4. Written Communication AI can write everything for us these days, right? No. It is my belief that no matter how good AI gets, there will always be a premium placed on words written solely via human agency. Even if we do use AI-generated content as a starting point, it can only produce what we tell it to. Organizing ideas, composing a compelling argument and putting the final touches on a written work are human-level skills we all still need. Being able to compose and communicate your thoughts effectively will never become obsolete. 5. Organizational Skills We live distracted lives and many of us toggle between personal and professional tasks many times a day, or often, many times an hour. Executive function, or those cognitive skills which help us organize our lives by managing tasks, planning ahead and problem solving, is key to staying on top of everything we have to get done. Organized individuals have good executive function and can adapt to and prioritize the needs of the moment. 6. Interpersonal Skills I frame interpersonal skills as the ability to create and sustain human connection. To connect with someone is to make them feel seen, heard and valued. No matter how brief or sustained their interaction with you, it means you make others feel their thoughts and feelings matter to you. Strong interpersonal skills encourage increased motivation, engagement and a positive attitude about whatever you need to accomplish together. Simple ways to connect with others more effectively with those in your sphere is to practice eye contact, active listening and validation of what they’re saying. It doesn’t mean you have to agree with it, but let them know their perspective is worth hearing. 7. Computer Literacy Is this tech skill really a professional skill? I believe so, because what’s the purpose of using a computer? Somewhere, somehow, everything we do online ultimately affects others. Computers exist to help humans. Your ability to navigate the digital world with ease allows you to be a better team member because you can focus on the work and people at hand, rather than the mechanics of using the technology. 8. Leadership Skills Leadership is not about the title you hold. Anyone who influences others in a positive direction is a leader. We need more people like this. While only 6% of Gen Z workers aspire to senior leadership roles within their organization, that will not prevent them from exercising the core skills of great leaders: vision, purpose, negotiation, empathy, teamwork, communication and more. In a way, all professional skills are on display in great leadership. It’s the skill that requires all the rest in order to be effective. 9. Problem Solving Before I hire someone, one of the most important skills I look at is their ability to solve problems. Every day presents a new set of challenges to overcome and employers need people who can tackle these problems without a lot of handholding. Though critical thinking is a vital component to good problem solving, I find that it’s more about the attitude people bring to problems than their actual abilities to solve them. A smart, tech-y person who nevertheless displays a give-up attitude in the face of challenges is not a problem solver. We should all strive to meet problems head-on and work proactively on a solution before leaning too heavily on those around us to solve it. 10. Attention To Detail I’m thrilled this skill made the top 10 because it’s one that I prize in every member of my own team, and I don’t think it gets enough attention. Attention to detail is what sets the great apart from the good. People who are motivated to pursue perfection in the small things are the ones who produce the best work. Details matter and can make all the difference in the final result. That said, I’m not advocating for perfectionism, but I will advocate all day for caring enough about the outcome to get the details right. People who care at that level about the work they produce are in high demand.

Summary In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise interviews Tamika Jenkins, the executive director of The Bean Path, a tech nonprofit in Jackson, Mississippi. They discuss Tamika's background in economic development, the challenges and opportunities in Jackson's economy, and the mission of The Bean Path to bridge the digital gap through technology education. The conversation highlights the importance of technology in various aspects of life, the funding and sustainability of nonprofit organizations, and the impact of The Bean Path on the community. Tamika shares insights on the future of technology and economic development, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation and learning in a rapidly changing world. Takeaways Economic development is a passion for Tamika Jenkins. The Bean Path offers free technology classes for all ages. Jackson, Mississippi has a rich culture but faces economic challenges. The Bean Path aims to bridge the digital gap in the community. Technology is crucial for education, healthcare, and social connections. Outreach efforts include partnerships with local schools and community centers. Funding for The Bean Path comes from grants, donations, and memberships. The impact of The Bean Path has reached over 10,000 people since its inception. AI is becoming an essential tool in economic development. The future of tech will likely involve more visual and interactive elements.

In this episode, Joi Cuartero Austin is joined once again by Erik Reader for a lively and insightful conversation around the concept of Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper (LQC) — a placemaking approach that emphasizes small-scale, low-cost, and fast-to-implement strategies for revitalizing public spaces and neighborhood districts. Originally popularized by the nonprofit Project for Public Spaces in the early 2000s, LQC continues to shape how communities reimagine their built environments — even today. We dig into real-world examples, lessons learned, and how communities are using this flexible framework to create a stronger sense of place, community, ownership, and vitality. Topics Covered: What “Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper” means and where it came from How cities like Dallas, Richmond, Chicago, and Peoria are embracing DIY placemaking Examples of LQC success: from Better Block projects to guerrilla wayfinding Creative community engagement: pop-up shops, vacant lot activations, and DIY downtowns The power of “just trying something” and giving communities permission to act Metrics and outcomes: How small tests can lead to permanent change How LQC invites broader participation and fosters local pride What we'd personally love to try next in our own communities! Mentioned Projects and Ideas: Better Block Dallas – transforming a corridor with temporary interventions Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood – intersection redesign with chalk paint and bollards Walk Raleigh – unsanctioned wayfinding signs showing walk times to local spots Peoria “Ideas to Action” – pop-up engagement leading to funded community-led projects Parklets and outdoor seating – how losing a few parking spots can spark placemaking Takeaways: You don’t need a million-dollar budget to make a meaningful impact. LQC gives communities permission to test ideas and rethink how they use space. Starting small can unlock new energy, increase public trust, and attract long-term investment. These quick wins can be a gateway to bigger, bolder revitalization strategies.

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Mark Perna discusses the evolution of career trees into Skill Trees, emphasizing the importance of teaching professional skills to younger generations. He outlines the structure of the skill tree curriculum, which spans from kindergarten through joining the workforce, and highlights the need for a competitive advantage in today's job market. The conversation also explores community engagement and the implementation of these concepts in educational systems. Takeaways Career trees help close the skills gap by providing clarity on career pathways. Skill trees introduce 21 essential professional skills for success. Teaching life skills early can lead to better outcomes for students. The curriculum is designed for different age groups to ensure relevance. Community engagement is crucial for the success of educational initiatives. Students need to see the relevance of their education to stay motivated. Professional skills are as important as academic knowledge in today's workforce. The magic of small steps can lead to significant personal growth. Collaboration between educators and community leaders enhances program effectiveness. The skill tree concept aims to create a holistic approach to youth development.

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Sean Maguire welcomes Allison Carter, the Director of Economic Development for Lowell, Massachusetts. They discuss the city's unique economic landscape, including its history, the Downtown Lowell Vacant Storefront Program, and the innovative Project Pop-Up retail incubator. Allison shares success stories from these initiatives, highlighting the community's vibrant culture, driven by a diverse population and a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. The conversation concludes with a look at future aspirations for Lowell's economic development and the importance of maintaining a dynamic downtown environment. Takeaways Lowell has a rich history that influences its current economic landscape. Manufacturing is allowed by right in downtown Lowell, fostering creativity. The city is relatively affordable compared to nearby areas such as Cambridge. Lowell has a significant Cambodian community that enriches its culture. The Downtown Lowell Vacant Storefront Program combines tax credits and forgivable loans. The program has successfully revitalized the downtown area post-COVID. Project Pop-Up allows entrepreneurs to test their business ideas with low risk. The incubator program has led to the opening of new businesses in Lowell. Community engagement is crucial for economic development success. Allison emphasizes the importance of turning challenges into opportunities.