August 21, 2023

105: Fusing Memes, AI, and Economic Development in Georgia With Ben McDaniel

22 minutes

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Ben McDaniel, the director for the Barrow Brazelton Joint Economic Development Authority in Georgia, shares how he uses memes and AI tools like ChatGPT to market his community in creative ways. McDaniel says he leans into his authentic self on platforms like LinkedIn, making funny or interesting memes that get noticed by site selectors and project managers. He also uses ChatGPT to help with common economic development tasks like crafting RFI responses and offer letters. McDaniel believes AI will transform the field and is already introducing it to his 10-year-old daughter.

Overall, the episode explores how economic developers big and small can tap into new technologies and creative marketing to share their community's story. McDaniel provides an interesting case study in embracing innovation while staying true to your roots.

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Special Guest: Ben Nelson.

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