Show Notes

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Paul Cranch from Brisbane to explore one of the most innovative and community-driven education and workforce models in the world: Country University Centers (CUCs).

Designed to expand access to tertiary education in regional and rural Australia, CUCs are community-led, community-run facilities that allow students to pursue university degrees without leaving their hometowns. The result? Stronger local economies, reduced brain drain, and a new generation of homegrown talent fueling regional prosperity.

Paul shares how this model emerged, why it works, and what economic development professionals around the world can learn from its success.

Key Topics Covered

• The origins and purpose of Country University Centers, and how they were created to serve regional Australia
• Why community-led, community-run facilities matter in expanding access to higher education
• Reversing brain drain by keeping students local and attracting talent back to rural communities
• Creative funding models combining federal, state, local, and private sector investment
• Economic ripple effects: workforce development, business engagement, and entrepreneurship
• Scaling and sustaining the model while keeping communities at the center
• Lessons for other regions, including online learning partnerships, governance structures, and community engagement strategies
• Real-world success stories featuring student demographics, degree programs, and regional outcomes

About Paul Cranch

Paul Cranch is an experienced economic development professional, consultant, and thought leader dedicated to helping communities turn local potential into lasting prosperity.

Based in Queensland, Paul has worked extensively with councils, regional organizations, and state agencies to strengthen local economies, attract investment, and build professional capability. He is the founder of Local Economic Impact Advisory, an independent consultancy focused on data-driven strategy and place-based impact.

Paul is also the voice behind several influential professional newsletters—EcDev with Paul, EcDev Jobs, and EcDev Data—connecting thousands of practitioners across Australia and internationally with practical, evidence-based insights.

Before returning to Australia, Paul spent more than a decade in Japan, studying commerce in Japanese at Kansai University and building a career in brand management and international business development. This experience shaped his global perspective on cross-cultural partnerships, investment facilitation, and place branding.

He is an active contributor to Economic Development Australia and international networks such as the International Economic Development Council, where he champions professional development, community readiness, and practical leadership.

When he's not advising communities or writing about economic development, Paul can be found training at CrossFit, volunteering in Brisbane's Japanese community, or traveling across regional Australia discovering the stories that shape local economies.

Featured Resource

Paul is the author of: BUILDING PLACES INVESTORS BELIEVE IN: How to attract, win, and keep businesses investing in your region

Show Notes

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise welcomes Andrew Ratchford, Vice President at Site Selection Group, for a wide-ranging conversation on how the role of economic developers is rapidly expanding—and what that means for communities trying to compete for investment and jobs.

As a proud partner of the Site Selectors Guild, Develop This! continues its mission of connecting economic developers with the site selection profession. This episode reflects that shared commitment: helping communities better understand how projects are evaluated and what it truly takes to deliver results.

Andrew explains how the pandemic accelerated a shift away from traditional economic development toward a more holistic model—one that now includes housing, childcare, workforce readiness, placemaking, sustainability, and risk management as essential components of successful projects.

Rather than simply providing data and incentives, communities are now judged on their ability to execute: align stakeholders, solve infrastructure challenges, and create environments where companies and talent want to stay.

Key Takeaways

• Economic developers' roles are expanding far beyond traditional business attraction
• The pandemic reshaped priorities, forcing a stronger focus on supporting existing businesses
• Communities are evaluated on outcomes, not just information
• Housing and childcare have become critical site selection factors
• Transportation and infrastructure gaps can derail projects if not addressed early
• Stakeholder alignment is essential for project success
• Scarcity of resources is driving innovation in economic development strategies
• Placemaking is key to attracting and retaining talent
• Workforce strategies must evolve with changing industry needs
• Sustainability and risk management now play a central role in project evaluations

About Andrew Ratchford

Andrew Ratchford is Vice President at Site Selection Group, where he specializes in evaluating sites and infrastructure for developability, capacity, and long-term improvement potential. He manages complex requests for information (RFIs), coordinates site visits with clients and community partners, and develops strategic improvement plans to help communities become more investment-ready.

Before joining Site Selection Group, Andrew built a diverse real estate and planning background across the nonprofit, public, and private sectors. His experience includes:

• Nonprofit housing development managing federal grants and affordable housing projects
• Community and regional planning for Greenville County, South Carolina
• Multifamily development with Graycliff Capital Partners
• Site selection advisory services with Global Location Strategies

With more than 13 years of experience, Andrew now focuses primarily on industrial assets and infrastructure, with a special interest in energy and brownfield redevelopment. His client work has included organizations such as Nacero, Georgia Pacific, Tennessee Valley Authority, Wisconsin Economic Development, CSX Railroad, BNSF Railroad, and Hoosier Energy.

Andrew holds an MBA from Clemson University and a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from North Greenville University. He is skilled in Excel, PowerPoint, GIS platforms, and PowerBI.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys playing electric and bass guitar, hiking, traveling, cheering on Clemson football, and perfecting his lawn care game while spending time outdoors with his wife, two children, and their dog.

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Phil Schneider, Project Principal at Global Location Strategies (GLS), to unpack one of the most critical challenges facing communities today: site readiness.

With more than 30 years of global consulting experience and nearly 400 site selection engagements across manufacturing, headquarters, R&D, technology, and shared services, Phil brings a site selector's unfiltered perspective on how the site selection landscape has fundamentally changed—and why many communities are struggling to keep up.

The conversation explores how manufacturing site selection projects now move at hyper speed, why risk aversion among companies has intensified, and how the shortage of truly competitive industrial sites is reshaping economic development strategy. Phil also dives into the persistent problem of inconsistent definitions of "ready sites" across states and programs—and how that inconsistency can derail projects before they even get started.

A major focus of the episode is the work of the Site Selectors Guild to establish national standards for site readiness. Phil explains how standardized criteria, data transparency, and data integrity can dramatically improve a community's competitiveness—and save both site selectors and economic developers valuable time.

This episode is essential listening for any economic development professional looking to align their site readiness efforts with real-world site selection expectations.

Key Takeaways

• Site readiness is now a baseline requirement, not a competitive advantage.
• Site selection timelines have compressed dramatically, increasing pressure on communities.
• There is a national shortage of quality, build-ready industrial sites.
• Companies are increasingly risk-averse, demanding better data and fewer unknowns.
• Definitions of "ready sites" vary widely—and that inconsistency creates friction.
• Economic developers and site selectors don't always evaluate readiness the same way.
• Data richness, accessibility, and transparency are essential to staying competitive.
• The Site Selectors Guild Ready Sites program helps identify gaps and raise standards.
• There are no perfect sites—but knowing your site's limitations matters.
• National site readiness standards are becoming increasingly important, even globally.

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with rural innovation expert Becky McCray, co-founder of SaveYour.Town and author of the bestselling books The Idea Friendly Guide and Small Town Rules.

Becky brings a rare perspective to economic development—she doesn't just study rural communities, she lives in one (population: 30). From running a small-town liquor store to serving as a city administrator and nonprofit executive, Becky has spent her career helping rural places adapt, innovate, and thrive.

Together, Dennis and Becky explore why traditional economic development models often fail rural communities—and what works instead. They discuss how small towns can move forward without massive budgets, long strategic plans, or endless committees by becoming more Idea Friendly: open to experimentation, collaboration, and small wins.

Listeners will learn why supporting entrepreneurs matters more than recruiting big industry, how to engage skeptics productively, and how tiny experiments can lead to meaningful momentum. Becky also shares insights from her ongoing Survey of Rural Challenges and highlights positive trends emerging across rural America—from renewed interest in downtowns and walkability to stronger local business ecosystems.

This episode is packed with practical tools and mindset shifts for economic developers, community leaders, and anyone who believes their town's future is worth fighting for.

Your town matters. And change doesn't start with a perfect plan—it starts with one small step.

Key Topics Covered

• Why traditional strategic planning often fails rural communities
• The Idea Friendly Method: Gather Your Crowd, Build Connections, Take Small Steps
• How small experiments outperform big projects
• Supporting local entrepreneurs vs. chasing large employers
• Turning rural challenges into community strengths
• Engaging skeptics and building trust
• Creating momentum through incremental wins
• Why every community's future must be locally shaped

Episode Takeaways

• Rural communities need solutions designed for rural realities
• Economic development starts with entrepreneurs and small businesses
• You don't need permission to try small ideas
• Relationships drive innovation more than structures
• Skeptics can become allies when you listen first
• Progress comes from action, not perfect plans
• Tiny wins build confidence and momentum
• Communities thrive when people feel empowered to try

Housing has become one of the most urgent—and complex—challenges facing economic developers today. In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Michael Mohrfeld, Owner and President of Mohrfeld Electric, Green Oak Development, Mohrfeld Solar, and a housing developer.

Speaking candidly from a developer's perspective, Michael shares what it really takes to make housing projects work in small and mid-sized communities—and why so many well-intentioned plans never move from concept to construction. Drawing on his diverse portfolio across construction, real estate, energy, and community-focused development, Michael explains how housing challenges are deeply intertwined with workforce availability, zoning, financing, and local leadership.

Dennis and Michael explore:

• Why housing is now a top economic development constraint
• The growing difficulty of delivering affordable and workforce housing
• How labor shortages in construction are impacting timelines and costs
• Regulatory and zoning hurdles that can stall or stop projects entirely
• The differences between new construction and renovation-based development
• Opportunities in both multifamily and single-family housing markets
• Why small communities must rely on local leadership—because "there's no cavalry coming"

Key Takeaways

• Housing is one of the most critical issues facing economic developers
• Developers bring practical insight into what makes projects viable
• Small communities face unique housing and financing challenges
• Workforce shortages significantly affect construction feasibility
• Affordable housing is increasingly complex to build
• Zoning and regulatory processes can impede development
• New construction and renovation projects require different strategies
• Strong community leadership is essential for success
• Both multifamily and single-family housing present opportunities
• Local champions are key to driving meaningful progress

In this special Develop This! Crystal Ball Series episode, host Dennis Fraise welcomes speaker and author Will Baggett for a wide-ranging conversation about what the future holds for leadership, communities, and economic development in 2026.

Dennis and Will explore how AI, shifting cultural values, and new economic forces are reshaping communities. They discuss why human connection may become a competitive advantage, how third spaces and phone-free environments are emerging as a correction to digital overload, and why adaptability is the most valuable leadership skill of the next decade.

The conversation also dives into emerging trends such as biohacking and longevity, the changing expectations of the housing market, the economic impact of sports betting and NIL deals, and the growing importance of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) over traditional SEO.

Key Takeaways

• People are craving real human connection more than ever
• Adaptability is the most important leadership skill
• Communities need more gathering spaces that support small businesses
• Outdated assumptions create serious planning risks
• Biohacking and longevity are becoming mainstream
• A healthy lifespan may matter more than retirement age
• Phone-free and unplugged spaces are gaining traction
• Human connection can become a strategic advantage for organizations
• Housing expectations are shifting toward individual needs
• Sports betting and NIL deals are reshaping local economies
• The labor market is experiencing a backlog from multiple forces
• Third spaces are critical for community engagement
• The shift from SEO to GEO is transforming digital strategy
• Knowledge matters more than raw information

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Samantha Jefferson, Managing Director of the Site Selectors Guild. This episode continues the relationship between the Develop This! Podcast and the Site Selectors Guild, offering listeners direct insight into how site selectors think, lead, and shape economic development outcomes.

Samantha shares her unique career journey and how early leadership experiences helped shape her holistic approach to site selection. The conversation explores why community understanding is just as important as data, how the Guild promotes integrity and objectivity in the profession, and why member feedback is driving new initiatives—including the launch of new industry certifications.

Dennis and Samantha also discuss the realities of site readiness, the importance of speculative investment, the Guild's international expansion, and how partnerships and conferences are strengthening engagement across the profession.

Key Takeaways

• Samantha's diverse background shapes her holistic view of site selection
• Leadership lessons can come from early experiences, including youth organizations
• Understanding communities is critical to successful economic development
• The Site Selectors Guild promotes integrity and objectivity in site selection
• Member feedback guides the Guild's future direction
• New certifications help define professional standards for site selectors
• International expansion reflects the realities of a global economy
• Site readiness requires careful planning and speculative investment
• Partnerships enhance learning and engagement opportunities
• Success as Managing Director means strong membership and impactful collaboration

Snacks With Surpise

Mark your calendar and prepare for an unparalleled experience at the 2026 Guild Spring Conference with 50 top site selection consultants and members of the Site Selectors Guild taking place March 23-25, 2026 in the vibrant heart of Atlanta, Georgia! With a ratio of eight EDO attendees to one Guild member, this is your exclusive opportunity to connect directly with the world's top location strategy experts and economic developers from across the US and abroad who are all shaping the future of site selection and global investment. The 2026 Guild Spring Conference will bring together the brightest minds in the industry for dynamic panel discussions, interactive roundtables, and high-impact networking sessions—all designed to spark new ideas, foster meaningful connections, and drive real results. Whether you are looking to showcase your community, understand the latest trends, or build relationships that matter, there is no better place to do it than at the Guild Spring Conference.

Site visits can make—or break—an economic development project. In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise is joined by Larry Gigerich, Executive Managing Director of Ginovus and one of the nation's most respected voices in site selection and economic development.

With more than 30 years of experience across local and state government, nonprofit leadership, and the private sector, Larry has worked on nearly 600 projects, generating $12 billion in capital investment, creating 100,000+ jobs, and retaining more than 200,000 existing jobs. A former Chair of the Site Selectors Guild. Larry brings unmatched insight into what site consultants and corporate decision-makers truly value when they come to town.

As part of the ongoing partnership between Develop This! and the Site Selectors Guild, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how communities can prepare for, host, and follow up after site visits in ways that build trust and improve outcomes.

Dennis and Larry explore:

• Why site visits are far more than "checking a box" in the project decision process
• Common misconceptions communities have about what site selectors are evaluating
• How logistics, professionalism, and pacing can influence perception
• Why authenticity, transparency, and the right people in the room matter more than a scripted pitch
• How meals, breaks, and quality-of-place experiences shape a visitor's impression
• The critical importance of timely, thoughtful follow-up
• How technology and data are continuing to evolve the site selection process

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Develop This! Podcast, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Aaron Brossoit, Partner & CEO, and Bethany Quinn, President of Golden Shovel Agency, as part of the Develop This! 2026 Crystal Ball Series.

Together, they explore how the economic development landscape is rapidly evolving—and what professionals must do now to prepare for 2026 and beyond. The conversation dives into the game-changing role of artificial intelligence, the growing importance of community engagement, and why economic developers must become champions of their own organizations and regions.

Aaron and Bethany discuss how communities often misdiagnose their challenges due to limited perspective, and why stakeholder engagement is essential for identifying real opportunities. They also unpack how websites are no longer standalone tools but part of a much broader digital and storytelling strategy that includes technology, virtual reality, and authentic community branding.

Key themes include business retention and expansion, workforce attraction, and the rising importance of energy availability as a deciding factor for economic growth. The episode emphasizes that creativity, adaptability, and embracing technology are no longer optional—they are essential for stretching limited budgets and competing in a crowded marketplace.

Key Takeaways

• Economic development is under increasing pressure from workforce and talent challenges.
• Artificial intelligence is transforming how communities market themselves and make decisions.
• Economic developers must actively champion their organizations and their missions.
• Stakeholder engagement is critical for accurately identifying community needs and barriers.
• Many communities misdiagnose their challenges due to a lack of an outside perspective.
• A website is only one part of a comprehensive economic development strategy.
• Technology can help stretch limited budgets and increase impact.
• Energy availability is becoming a major factor in economic growth decisions.
• Storytelling and digital presence are essential for showcasing community strengths.
• Creative solutions are required to attract both businesses and workforce in 2026 and beyond.

Community banks play a critical—yet often underappreciated—role in economic development. In this episode of Develop This!, the #1 podcast for economic development professionals, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Matt Morris, President and CEO of Connection Bank in Fort Madison, Iowa, to explore how community banking fuels local economies, supports small businesses, and strengthens rural communities.

Matt shares his career journey from working at large financial institutions to leading a community bank and explains why relationship-based banking remains essential to sustainable economic development. Together, Dennis and Matt unpack how community banks serve as trusted partners for entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and local leaders—often stepping in where larger institutions cannot or will not.

Key Takeaways

• Community banks support their communities in diverse and meaningful ways
• Strong relationships are the foundation of community banking
• Economic development depends on healthy, engaged local financial institutions
• Community banks often fill critical gaps for small and rural businesses
• Trust is essential to effective banking relationships
• Community banks are deeply involved in local economic development efforts
• Technology has changed how banks operate—but not the need for relationships
• Non-traditional competitors present new challenges for community banks
• Developing the next generation of leaders is key to community growth
• Better storytelling can improve understanding of the community bank model