Develop This: Economic and Community Development

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

Show Notes

As part of the Develop This! 2026 Crystal Ball Series, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Andy Coe, Principal at Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, to explore what lies ahead for economic development organization (EDO) funding as communities head toward 2026.

With public funding under pressure and competition for private dollars increasing, this episode delivers a candid, practical conversation about risk management, revenue diversification, and leadership strategy. Andy draws on his national experience working alongside EDOs, chambers, and nonprofit organizations to explain why some communities will struggle—and why others will emerge stronger than ever.

Dennis and Andy also reflect on the long-standing relationship between Develop This! and Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, highlighting shared values around leadership, transparency, and sustainable community investment.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why waiting for funding clarity is no longer an option
• How strong investor relationships and communication can stabilize—or grow—budgets
• What EDO leaders must do to clearly articulate impact in a crowded funding environment
• How asking better questions can uncover hidden community capacity and opportunity
• Why organizations that lead with purpose and data will outperform those that rely on legacy funding models

Key Takeaways

• Proactive leadership is essential to mitigating funding risk
• Diversifying revenue sources is no longer optional—it's foundational
• Strong, authentic relationships drive fundraising success
• Clear communication of impact builds investor confidence
• Asking the right questions reveals new funding and partnership opportunities

As Develop This! kicks off its Crystal Ball series for 2026, host Dennis Fraise is joined by Chris Lloyd, Senior Vice President and Director of Infrastructure and Economic Development at McGuireWoods Consulting, for a forward-looking conversation on the forces shaping the future of economic development in partnrship with the Site Selectors Guild.

Chris brings a national perspective on how federal tax policy, state conformity, executive orders, and the growing affordability agenda are influencing site selection and investment decisions. The discussion explores why tools like immediate expensing of capital matter more than ever, how executive actions can accelerate permitting, and why affordability—especially housing—has become a central factor for companies choosing where to locate.

The conversation also dives into evolving site selection criteria, from power availability and workforce readiness to speed-to-market pressures and the growing role of AI and data centers. Chris underscores that while megaprojects capture headlines, smaller, strategic wins are increasingly critical for community success.

Throughout the episode, one theme stands out: economic development is a storytelling business. Chris explains why economic developers must clearly articulate their community's value proposition while preparing for risk, disruption, and the unexpected.

This episode offers practical insights and strategic foresight for community and economic development professionals preparing for 2026 and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• Major trends—including AI and data centers—are reshaping economic development strategies
• Immediate expensing of capital remains a powerful incentive for project decisions
• State conformity with federal tax policy can be a decisive site selection factor
• Executive orders can significantly streamline permitting and project timelines
• Affordability is now a core consideration in corporate location decisions
• Public-private partnerships play a growing role in workforce and housing solutions
• Power, workforce, and speed to market remain essential site selection criteria
• Effective community storytelling is critical to winning investment
• Smaller, targeted projects are gaining importance alongside megaprojects
• Communities must have "break glass" contingency plans for emergencies and disruptions

As part of the Develop This! Crystal Ball Series kicking off 2026, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Danielle Casey, President & CEO of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance and incoming IEDC Board Chair, for a candid and forward-looking conversation on leadership, career evolution, and the future of economic development.

Danielle shares insights from her career transition from Albuquerque to Las Vegas and reflects on how unplanned opportunities often shape meaningful leadership journeys. Together, Dennis and Danielle explore the evolving demands placed on economic development professionals—from rapid technological change and demographic shifts to workforce readiness and long-term strategic planning.

The conversation also highlights the growing influence of women in economic development leadership, the critical role of mentorship, and the importance of listening as a leadership skill. Danielle underscores the need for trained, adaptable professionals, diversified local economies, and deeper community engagement to ensure the profession remains resilient and impactful.

The episode closes with a look ahead to 2026, including Danielle's priorities as incoming IEDC Board Chair and what economic developers must do now to stay energized, effective, and future-ready.

Key Takeaways

• Mentorship is foundational to sustaining and strengthening the profession
• Economic developers must remain adaptable in rapidly changing environments
• Diversification is essential for long-term economic resilience
• Women are increasingly shaping leadership at all levels of economic development
• Listening is one of the most underrated—and vital—leadership skills
• Conferences and peer networks provide both professional insight and emotional support
• Tracking trends is no longer optional—it's a core competency
• Burnout prevention is critical for long-term success
• The profession demands balance between immediate wins and long-term vision
• Training and education are key to developing the next generation of leaders

As part of the Develop This! Crystal Ball Series kicking off 2026, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Nathan Ohle, President & CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), for a wide-ranging conversation on where the profession is headed—and how leaders can prepare for what's next.

Nathan shares insights from his extensive travels and conversations with economic developers across the country, highlighting how the role of the practitioner is evolving. From deeper engagement with rural communities to increased cross-sector collaboration, economic development is becoming more complex—and more impactful—than ever.

The discussion also explores the significant transformation underway at IEDC since 2022, including a new membership model designed to lower barriers to participation, major investments in systems and infrastructure, and a renewed emphasis on listening to and elevating member voices. Nathan reflects on how feedback from practitioners has directly shaped these changes.

Looking ahead, the conversation turns to the role of technology and AI as accelerators for economic development work, the importance of training and mentorship for the next generation of leaders, and what the IEDC's 100th anniversary in 2026 represents for the organization and the profession as a whole.

This episode offers a forward-looking, practitioner-focused perspective on leadership, transformation, and collaboration—making it a must-listen for anyone shaping the future of economic and community development.

Key Takeaways

• Elevating the voices of economic development practitioners is essential for the profession's future
• The role of economic developers is expanding through deeper collaboration with public, private, and nonprofit partners
• IEDC's new membership model is reducing barriers and broadening engagement
• Member feedback has driven meaningful organizational transformation at IEDC
• AI is emerging as a powerful accelerator—not a replacement—for economic development work
• Mentorship and training are critical to developing the next generation of leaders
• Strategic investments in systems and infrastructure are improving member services
• IEDC's 100th anniversary in 2026 marks a pivotal milestone for reflection and future vision
• Collaboration and partnerships will define success in the next era of economic development

As Develop This! kicks off 2026, host Dennis Fraise continues the Crystal Ball series with a timely and thought-provoking conversation with Mark Perna—generational expert, author of Answering Why, speaker, and Forbes contributor.

Together, Dennis and Mark explore how the workforce and education landscape has (and hasn't) changed since Answering Why was published in 2018. They examine generational shifts, the widening skills and readiness gap, and the urgent need for visionary leadership across economic development, education, and workforce systems.

Mark shares powerful insights on what young people are really asking for today, why inspiration and purpose matter more than ever, and how economic developers can better engage emerging talent. The conversation also dives into the accelerating impact of AI, the pace of change confronting communities, and the traits future-ready leaders and workers must develop to thrive.

This episode challenges listeners to rethink traditional workforce strategies, elevate collaboration, and lead with optimism—because, as Mark reminds us, young people are extraordinary and capable of shaping a stronger economic future.

Key Takeaways

• The workforce education landscape has seen surprisingly little substantive change since 2018
• Workplace readiness, professionalism, and etiquette are growing challenges
• Young people are eager for inspiration, meaning, and honest conversations
• Visionary leadership is essential to drive collaboration and economic growth
• The accelerating pace of change demands adaptability and proactive leadership
• Workforce readiness remains low, highlighting a persistent skills gap
• Students face new challenges balancing hope and opportunity in a shifting job market
• AI will significantly reshape workforce dynamics and skill requirements
• Diversity, adaptability, and resilience will define future workforce success
• Young people are not the problem—they are the solution

In this episode of Develop This! host Joi Cuartero Austin interviews Kyle Moore, Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF) President & CEO, former Quincy, IL Mayor & IL State Representative, who shares hard-earned insights on how local leaders can advocate effectively with elected officials to get economic development projects across the finish line. Drawing on his experience as a city council member, mayor, and state representative, Kyle explains the practical realities that shape project outcomes, including timing, coalitions, data, and political context.

They discuss:

• Why advocacy often comes too late—and how to avoid this pitfall.
• How elected officials evaluate project proposals and the importance of credibility.
• Navigating local budgets, rezoning, and the state legislative calendar.
• Making a clear, actionable "ask" and doing your homework beforehand.
• Building coalitions and fostering strong relationships with elected officials and their staff.
• Lessons from successful projects in other communities.

Key Takeaways

• Advocacy often happens too late—start early and plan strategically.
• Understanding local government roles is crucial for effective engagement.
• Every community has unique priorities, timelines, and pressures.
• Preparation and data-backed proposals increase credibility.
• Building relationships with officials and staff is essential for project success.
• Timing—aligned with budget cycles and legislative calendars—can make or break a project.
• Personalized communication beats generic letters or emails.
• Learning from successful projects elsewhere strengthens your approach.
• Consistent engagement builds trust and long-term collaboration.

What truly makes an effective board chair in economic development?

In this episode of Develop This!, the #1 economic development podcast, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Bob Huffman, President of Huffman Welding & Machine, Inc., and Huffman's Farm & Home, to explore the role of the board chair—and why influence matters more than authority.

Drawing from decades of leading multi-generational, community-rooted businesses and serving as board chair for two economic development organizations, Bob shares hard-earned insights on leadership that earns trust, not compliance. He explains why the loudest voice in the room rarely leads to the best outcomes—and how listening, respect, and thoughtful decision-making create boards that function at their highest level.

This conversation goes deep into the chair–CEO relationship, the board chair as a strategic sounding board, and how effective chairs set the tone, build leadership pipelines, and guide organizations through complex decisions. Bob also offers candid advice on common board pitfalls—and what new chairs need to understand on day one.

Whether you're a current board chair, an economic development CEO, a future CEO, or a future board leader, this episode delivers practical wisdom you can apply immediately.

Key Topics & Themes

• Leadership through influence, not authority
• The evolving role of the board chair in economic development
• Building trust between the board chair and CEO
• Listening to diverse perspectives to drive better decisions
• Setting culture, tone, and expectations at the board level
• Developing future board and community leaders

Key Takeaways

• People should follow leadership because they want to—not because they have to
• The loudest voice in the room is rarely the most effective
• Thoughtful leaders listen to all perspectives before deciding
• Respect is earned through preparation, fairness, and follow-through
• Strong board chairs make decisions everyone can respect—even when not everyone agrees
• Influence grows from credibility and trust, not titles

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise welcomes nationally recognized speaker and thought leader Mark Perna for a powerful conversation on career growth, motivation, and personal development.

From the earliest stages of a career to seasoned leadership, Mark and Dennis explore what truly drives long-term success. The discussion dives into the importance of intentionally stepping outside your comfort zone, seeking meaningful mentorship, and committing to continuous self-improvement. Mark shares his personal journey as a public speaker—highlighting the setbacks, failures, and self-reflection that shaped his success—while Dennis underscores how resilience and adaptability are essential traits in economic development and beyond.

Listeners will gain practical insight into how intrinsic motivation, collaboration, and lifelong learning fuel professional impact. The conversation also reinforces a critical truth: success is rarely a solo journey. Growth comes from learning from others, owning your failures, and staying passionate and authentic in your work.

Whether you're early in your career or a seasoned economic development professional, this episode offers thoughtful reminders—and actionable inspiration—on how to build a career that stands out, creates impact, and continues to evolve.

Key Takeaways

• Do something every month that pushes you outside your comfort zone
• Growth starts with being comfortable with discomfort
• Public speaking is a learnable skill—not a fixed talent
• Mentorship accelerates both personal and professional development
• Self-reflection is essential for continuous improvement
• Failure becomes valuable when you learn from it
• Intrinsic motivation fuels lasting success
• Everyone's career path is unique—own yours
• Collaboration is critical; no one succeeds alone
• Strive to be so good they can't ignore you