Summary

In this conversation, Dennis and Mark Perna explore the significance of asking better questions in various contexts, particularly in leadership and personal interactions. They discuss how effective questioning can lead to deeper understanding, stronger relationships, and improved communication. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, curiosity, and the art of engaging conversations, while also addressing the challenges of navigating difficult discussions. Throughout the conversation, they highlight practical strategies for enhancing questioning skills and building rapport with others.

Takeaways

• Asking better questions starts with understanding.
• Questions should be enjoyable for both parties.
• Emotional intelligence is crucial in questioning.
• The art of questioning involves genuine curiosity.
• Difficult conversations can lead to valuable insights.
• Building rapport is essential for effective communication.
• Effective questioning is a skill that can be honed.
• Curiosity drives better engagement in conversations.
• Asking uncomfortable questions is sometimes necessary.
• Creating connections is key to successful leadership.

Summary

In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Dennis Fraise speaks with Lisa Hurley, the president of the National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA). They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural economic developers, the importance of community relationships, and the benefits of NREDA membership. Lisa shares insights about York County, Nebraska, and the organization's efforts to support economic development across rural America. The conversation also touches on the upcoming NREDA annual conference and the significance of networking and professional development.

Takeaways

• Rural communities often face unique economic development challenges.
• NREDA serves over 330 members across 35 states.
• Funding is a significant issue for small communities.
• Diversity in projects keeps economic developers engaged.
• Small-town politics can be challenging but manageable.
• NREDA provides valuable training and networking opportunities.
• The annual conference is a key event for members.
• Mobile classrooms offer hands-on learning experiences.
• Building relationships is crucial in small communities.
• Economic development impacts families and communities directly.

Summary This Develop This! episode delves into the complexities of tariffs and their impact on the can manufacturing industry in the United States. Dennis Fraise hosts Rick Huether, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the Independent Can Company, and Robert Budway, President of the Can Manufacturers Institute, to discuss the historical context of tariffs, the current state of the industry, and the challenges faced by manufacturers. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding how tariffs affect not only businesses but also consumers and the potential for reshoring manufacturing in the U.S. amidst ongoing economic challenges.

Takeaways

• Tariffs significantly impact the cost structure of can manufacturing.
• The can industry is a vital yet often overlooked part of the food supply chain.
• Economic developers play a crucial role in advocating for the can manufacturing sector.
• The current tariff regime is complex and constantly changing.
• Manufacturers are facing unprecedented challenges due to tariffs and material sourcing issues.
• Sustainability and recycling are key advantages for the can industry.
• The consumer will ultimately bear the cost of increased tariffs.
• Investment in domestic manufacturing capacity is essential for future stability.
• Collaboration between manufacturers and policymakers is necessary to address tariff impacts.

Summary

In this episode of the Develop This! Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Jolene Schalper and Christian Leinhauser from the Great Falls Montana Development Authority about the upcoming 2025 IEDC Rural Retreat. They discuss the unique features of the retreat, which focuses on rural economic development and offers immersive experiences. Attendees will have the chance to engage with local entrepreneurs and communities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing the specific needs of rural areas and outlines various planned activities for the retreat, including tours, networking opportunities, and visits to local attractions.

Takeaways

• The Great Falls Development Authority focuses on diversifying the regional economy.
• The 2025 IDC Rural Retreat aims to address the unique needs of rural communities.
• Immersive experiences will allow attendees to engage with local entrepreneurs.
• The retreat will feature both plenary sessions and community tours.
• Participants will have the opportunity to learn from successful rural initiatives.
• Networking opportunities will be abundant, fostering collaboration among attendees.
• The retreat will include various tracks focusing on different aspects of economic development.
• Great Falls is home to significant agricultural and manufacturing sectors.
• Local attractions include stunning natural landscapes and historical sites.
• The retreat encourages attendees to bring back valuable tools for their communities.

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Dennis Fraise interviews Michael Langley, a distinguished figure in economic development and recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award from the IEDC. The conversation explores Michael's journey from military service as a naval aviator to a successful career in corporate America and, ultimately, to his impactful role in economic development. Michael shares valuable insights on leadership, the importance of community engagement, and the evolving landscape of economic development, particularly in light of technological advancements and current political challenges. He emphasizes the need for patience among young leaders and the significance of collaboration across various sectors to achieve economic success.

Takeaways

• Michael Langley's military background provided essential leadership skills.
• Transitioning from military to corporate to economic development is a unique journey.
• Engaging community champions is crucial for economic development success.
• Understanding regional strengths and weaknesses is key to effective leadership.
• Collaboration among public, private, and nonprofit sectors is foundational for economic development.
• Listening and delegation are vital skills for effective leadership.
• Young leaders should practice patience and gain experience before advancing.
• Technology and AI are transforming the economic development landscape.
• Economic developers must guide elected officials through political challenges.
• Building bridges within the community fosters support for economic initiatives.

Summary In this episode of Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews David Gantz, a trade law expert, to discuss the current state of tariffs and international trade. They explore the chaotic nature of recent tariff threats and implementations, the historical context of trade agreements like NAFTA and USMCA, and the implications of new tariffs on trade relationships with Canada, Mexico, and China. The conversation delves into the impact on consumers, manufacturing, and the long-term effects on US relations with Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as the greatly diminished role of the WTO in global trade.

Takeaways

• The current tariff situation is chaotic and rapidly changing.
• Historical tariffs like the 1930s Hawley-Smoot tariff are comparable to today's tariff levels on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China.
• NAFTA and USMCA have significantly shaped and improved trade relationships in North America for more than 30 years.
• New tariffs undermine and conflict with existing trade agreements such as the USMCA. Manufacturing shifts are influenced, inter alia, by tariff policies, both economic and political pressures, and the costs of altering supply chains.
• Consumers may face immediate price increases on their purchases due to tariffs imposed on Mexico and China generally, and imports of steel and aluminum from all foreign sources.
• Retaliatory tariffs from trading partners will escalate tensions and further disrupt trade.
• Long-term damage to US-Canada relations may take decades to repair.
• China is actively seeking new trade partnerships to mitigate US tariffs.
• The WTO's influence is waning as the U.S. and other countries pursue unilateral trade policies that conflict with basic WTO obligations.

Summary

In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise speaks with Bethany Quinn, president of Golden Shovel Agency, about the importance of economic development in rural America. They discuss the agency's mission, the launch of the Rural America campaign, and key findings from a recent white paper on marketing strategies for rural communities. Bethany emphasizes the need for effective marketing strategies, social media's role, and storytelling's importance in economic development. They also touch on the significance of adequate funding and introduce the new Impact Local website product designed for rural communities.

Takeaways

• Golden Shovel Agency supports economic development in rural areas.
• The Rural America campaign aims to provide affordable solutions for small communities.
• Many economic development organizations lack a cohesive marketing strategy.
• A robust website is essential for effective marketing efforts.
• Social media consistency is crucial for community engagement.
• Economic development is evolving to include community development aspects.
• Measuring marketing success goes beyond website traffic.
• Adequate funding is vital for long-term marketing strategies.
• The Impact Local product offers affordable website solutions for rural communities.
• Storytelling is key to conveying a community's unique value proposition.

Summary

In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Dennis Fraise is joined by contributing correspondents Joy Austin, Angee Shaker, and Sean Maguire to discuss their experiences at the recent IEDC Leadership Summit held in Washington, DC. They reflect on the conference's location, programming, and the importance of networking and collaboration among economic developers. The group shares insights on various sessions, including data utilization, personal branding, and the impact of plenary speakers. They conclude with thoughts on the overall experience and future conferences.

Takeaways

• The conference location in DC allowed for advocacy opportunities.
• Networking with colleagues was a highlight of the conference.
• Sessions focused on collaboration rather than traditional presentations.
• Data utilization is crucial for effective economic development.
• Personal branding is important for professional growth.
• Plenary sessions featured inspiring speakers from various fields.
• The conference emphasized learning from peers and sharing experiences.
• The hotel location facilitated easy access to key sites in DC.
• Future conferences will continue to explore innovative formats.
• Staying hydrated and comfortable is essential during conferences.

Upcoming IEDC conferences

Rural Retreat June 23rd - 25th Great Falls Montana

Annual Conference - September 14th - 17th Detroit, MI

Leadership Summit March 1st - 3rd 2026

In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Ryan Monarch Assistant Professor, Economics Department Syracuse University, an expert in international trade and economics, to discuss the complexities of tariffs and their implications on the economy. The conversation covers the definition of tariffs, their historical context, their role in modern trade, and the economic and consumer impacts. Ryan explains how tariffs can affect supply chains, consumer choices, and the overall market dynamics while also addressing the political motivations behind tariff implementation. The discussion highlights the challenges and uncertainties businesses face in a fluctuating tariff environment and the long-term effects of such policies on the economy.

Takeaways

• A tariff is an increase in the price of imported goods.
• Tariffs have been a source of government revenue since the founding of the US.
• President McKinley was known for his pro-tariff stance.
• Tariffs are used to protect domestic industries from foreign competition.
• The scale of tariffs under President Trump is unprecedented in modern history.
• Higher tariffs can lead to increased prices for consumers.
• Tariffs can disrupt established supply chains and consumer choices.
• The burden of tariffs often falls on US importers, not foreign producers.
• Economists generally believe that tariffs create more losers than winners.
• The long-term effects of tariffs on the economy can take years to understand fully.

Learn. Explore. Activate in Place. (LEAP) | Cleveland, Ohio | June 9–13, 2025

LEAP into innovative economic strategies on an in-person learning trip! 

NGIN will select teams, each consisting of 2-4 economic and community leaders from cities with populations between 50,000 and 500,000, to explore Community Wealth Building and Inclusive Capital in Cleveland, OH. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to create their own action plan to bring back to their city. 

Selected participants will have all travel expenses covered for this immersive learning experience. NGIN will also handle all trip logistics. 

Ryan Monarch researches buyer-supplier relationships in international trade and how the recent tariff war affected U.S. exports and supply chains. He served as a Principal Economist for the International Finance division of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve from 2014-2021. His work has been published in the Review of Economics and Statistics, the Journal of International Economics and other publications. His research has been cited by The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Bloomberg, The Economist and Reuters, among others. He received a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Michigan in 2014.

In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise and Mark Perna discuss the importance of building one's dreams at any stage of life. They explore the distinction between interest and passion, emphasizing that while interest can be easily found, passion is cultivated over time through resilience and commitment. The conversation also highlights the significance of engagement and self-motivation in creating a competitive advantage in both personal and professional realms. Mark shares his philosophy of embracing discomfort and daring to dream, encouraging listeners to take actionable steps toward their goals.

Competitive Advantage Track 

Takeaways

• You're either building your dream or someone else's.
• Life really begins when you carve out time for yourself.
• Interest is something you can trip over; passion is built over time.
• Show up five minutes early, stay five minutes late, and care.
• Be so good they can't ignore you.
• Dare to dream and embrace discomfort.
• You have all the time that there is; it's how you use it that matters.
• To stand out, do what others won't do.
• Say yes, and then figure out how.
• Inspiring young people is critically important for economic development.