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Developing the Block, a North Carolina Economic Development Podcast
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Developing the Block, a North Carolina Economic Development Podcast

Author: NCEDA

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Developing the Block is an economic development podcast hosted by Elizabeth Kazmir and Trey Cash.

Each episode, Elizabeth and Trey talk with economic developers, community leaders, and friends from across North Carolina and the United States about the people, projects, challenges, and ideas shaping communities today.

From business recruitment and workforce development to site development, partnerships, and the stories behind the projects, Developing the Block is a practical and conversational look at what economic development really looks like.

Whether you are new to the profession or have been doing this for years, join us as we learn from each other and keep building the block.

Sponsored by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA), this podcast is your exclusive gateway to the world of economic development, served with a touch of humor. Join Elizabeth, Trey, and the NCEDA as they connect with economic developers across the state, offering insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and a hint of dad jokes.


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29 Episodes
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On this episode of Developing the Block, Trey Cash and Elizabeth Kazimir welcome Emily Martin, Economic Development Manager with Duke Energy and Vice Chair of the NCEDA Emerging Executives Committee. Emily shares her journey into economic development, her recent transition from the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development to Duke Energy, and her perspective on the next generation of economic development professionals. The conversation explores the unique opportunities and chall...
On this episode of Developing the Block, Trey and Elizabeth welcome Crystal Morphis, Chair of the NCEDA Foundation, and Steve Yost, Vice Chair of the NCEDA Foundation, for the podcast’s first two guest conversation. Crystal and Steve share the purpose of the NCEDA Foundation, why it matters to the economic development profession, and how scholarships, professional development, and programs like Career Trek help support the next generation of economic developers. They also discuss the importa...
In this episode, Elizabeth and Trey sit down with Kelly Bowers, NCCED, Economic Development Director for Hertford County and Economic Development Specialist with Timmons Group. Kelly shares how a passion for real estate, revitalization, and problem solving grew into a career in economic development. With experience in rural communities, smart growth, agriculture, industry, tourism, and community development, Kelly brings a thoughtful perspective on what it takes to connect the dots and help ...
Walt Sprouse

Walt Sprouse

2026-09-1455:23

We are back. After a long hiatus, Developing the Block returns for Season 3 with a new name, a fresh start, and a very special first guest. In this episode, Elizabeth and Trey welcome Walt Sprouse, a longtime economic development leader, mentor, and friend. Walt talks about his long history with Elizabeth, including knowing her since she was a child, and shares stories from a career spent helping communities grow, compete, and win major projects. Walt’s experience stretches across decades ...
In this episode of The New Economic Developers on the Block, we sit down with Nate Groover, Economic Development Director for the Town of Garner. Nate brings a unique perspective shaped by years of experience across every level of economic development—state, regional, local, and private-sector—plus a foundation built in the U.S. Air Force. We explore how those roles shaped his approach to economic development, what it means to “work with what you have,” and how Garner is building momentum th...
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