Develop This: Economic and Community Development

What really happens before a company announces a major investment—and how do communities make the shortlist?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Seth Martindale, Vice Chairman at CBRE, to explore the behind-the-scenes world of site selection and what it takes for communities to compete for major economic development projects.

Seth explains the extensive analysis that happens long before a project becomes public, from evaluating infrastructure and workforce availability to assessing risk, political stability, and long-term business viability. He also shares how AI and advanced data tools are making site selection faster and more informed than ever before.

The conversation dives into today's hottest sectors—including advanced manufacturing, data centers, and life sciences—and examines how reshoring and infrastructure investments are creating new opportunities across the country.

Seth also dispels common myths about incentives, emphasizing that while incentives matter, successful projects are driven by strong fundamentals, certainty, and community readiness. He discusses the importance of confidentiality, project management, and why seemingly small issues can become major deal breakers.

Throughout the episode, Seth offers practical advice for economic development organizations on preparing sites, reducing uncertainty, and positioning their communities for long-term success.

A key takeaway? Winning projects isn't about offering the biggest incentives—it's about creating confidence through preparation, infrastructure, and strong community partnerships.

Key Takeaways

• Site selection decisions are driven by data, analysis, and long-term strategy

• AI is accelerating research and improving decision-making

• Manufacturing, data centers, and life sciences remain major growth sectors

• Community readiness and infrastructure often outweigh incentive packages

• Reducing uncertainty is critical to attracting investment

• Strong preparation helps communities compete for transformational projects

Key Topics Covered

• The site selection process behind major projects

• AI and data-driven decision-making

• Manufacturing, data centers, and reshoring trends

• Community readiness and infrastructure

• Common deal breakers and project risks

• Myths about incentives and investment decisions

Sound Bites

• "Decisions are based on analysis, not just incentives."

• "Projects hate uncertainty, especially political ones."

• "Infrastructure building is happening but not headline-grabbing."

Are data centers the next essential piece of America's economic infrastructure?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Gene Marks to explore the growing debate around data centers, AI, and the infrastructure needed to support the digital economy.

Gene compares today's data center expansion to the development of America's railroads, arguing that major technological advances often face resistance before becoming essential parts of everyday life.

The conversation also examines concerns surrounding electricity, water usage, environmental impact, incentives, and local opposition. Gene discusses the challenge of balancing community interests with the broader need for infrastructure and technological investment.

The episode also looks at AI's impact on jobs, the accelerating race to build AI infrastructure, and the potential constraints that electricity and water could place on future growth.

• Data centers are becoming essential infrastructure for the digital economy.

• Communities must weigh economic benefits against environmental and infrastructure concerns.

• Electricity and water availability could become major constraints on AI growth.

• AI is likely to transform jobs while also creating new opportunities.

• Local communities will continue to play an important role in infrastructure decisions.

• Technological progress has historically faced resistance before becoming widely accepted.

• Data centers as critical infrastructure

• The railroad comparison and technological progress

• Environmental and community concerns

• Incentives and local decision-making

• AI, jobs, and automation

• The future of data center development

• America's AI infrastructure race

What role does marketing play in shaping a region's economic future?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Jennifer Wakefield about her unique path into economic development and how her background in communications and marketing has influenced her approach to regional growth and leadership.

Jennifer shares how authentic branding, strategic messaging, and stakeholder engagement have become essential tools for attracting investment and strengthening regional identity. She explains why communities that clearly communicate who they are—and what makes them unique—are better positioned to compete in today's economy.

A major focus of the conversation is the evolving role of economic development organizations and the importance of aligning long-term strategy with day-to-day execution. Jennifer discusses organizational transformation, leadership, and the challenge of balancing immediate opportunities with future goals.

The discussion also explores how emerging trends such as AI, digital transformation, and data center investment are reshaping regional economies and creating new opportunities for growth.

Throughout the episode, Jennifer highlights the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and authenticity in both leadership and community branding.

Key Takeaways

• Authentic branding strengthens regional competitiveness

• Marketing is a core function of modern economic development

• Strong stakeholder engagement supports long-term success

• Leaders must balance strategic priorities with daily execution

• AI and data centers are influencing regional growth strategies

• Adaptability and communication are essential leadership skills

• Clear regional identity helps communities stand out in a crowded market

Key Topics Covered

• Jennifer Wakefield's journey into economic development

• Communications and marketing as economic development tools

• Regional branding and stakeholder engagement

• Organizational transformation and leadership

• AI, data centers, and digital growth trends

• Balancing short-term opportunities with long-term strategy

Sound Bites

• "Land in economic development like a Monopoly game."

• "Two days are always different in economic development."

• "Authenticity is critically important in branding."

What does the Federal Reserve actually do—and why should local communities care?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Seema Sheth, Senior Vice President of the Louisville Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, to demystify the Federal Reserve and explore its role in shaping the U.S. economy.

Seema explains how the Federal Reserve System operates, the unique role regional Reserve Banks play in monetary policy, and why local economic insights are essential to national decision-making. She also addresses some of the most common misconceptions about the Fed and its independence from politics.

A major focus of the conversation is the Beige Book, a key report that gathers real-world input from businesses and communities across the country to help inform economic policy. Seema discusses how these local perspectives influence the Fed's understanding of economic conditions beyond traditional data.

The discussion also highlights the importance of financial literacy. From understanding debt to making informed financial decisions, Seema shares why economic education is valuable for everyone—not just economists or financial professionals.

Throughout the episode, Seema reflects on her own career journey and emphasizes the importance of curiosity, communication, and making economics more accessible to the public.

A key takeaway? Understanding how the economy works empowers individuals, businesses, and communities to make better decisions for the future.

Key Takeaways

• Regional Federal Reserve Banks provide critical local economic insights

• The Beige Book helps shape national monetary policy through community feedback

• Financial literacy is an essential life skill for people of all ages

• The Federal Reserve operates independently to support long-term economic stability

• Understanding economics helps individuals and communities make informed decisions

• Local perspectives play a vital role in national economic policy

Key Topics Covered

• Structure of the Federal Reserve System

• Common misconceptions about the Fed

• Regional economic representation and the Beige Book

• Financial literacy and economic education

• Fed independence and monetary policy

• Seema Seth's career journey and leadership

Sound Bites

• "We're on your side—that's what I wish people knew."

• "The Fed likes to take the punch bowl away as soon as the party gets good."

• "Economics is for everyone, not just economists."

What happens when a massive data center project moves forward at unprecedented speed?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Eli Tan, New York Times reporter, to explore the scale, speed, and controversy surrounding Meta's massive data center project in Louisiana.

Eli discusses how quickly the project moved from site selection to construction, why Louisiana was chosen, and the role of secrecy and NDAs in the development process.

The conversation also examines community reactions, economic benefits, environmental concerns, and the growing tension between attracting major investments and maintaining public trust.

As data centers continue expanding across the country, Eli explains the key issues communities are weighing and what this project could mean for the future of economic development.

• Data centers are being developed at unprecedented scale and speed.

• Secrecy and NDAs can create challenges for community trust.

• Major projects bring both economic opportunities and community concerns.

• Transparency and public engagement are increasingly important.

• Louisiana's experience offers lessons for communities considering future data center projects.

• Meta's Louisiana data center

• Site selection and project speed

• NDAs and economic development secrecy

• Community reactions and public trust

• Economic and environmental impacts

• The future of data center development

"It looks like a scene from Star Wars."

"Louisiana built this project behind closed doors."

"People care about five main issues with data centers."

What happens when an unconventional career path leads to economic development?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Brian Fleming about his journey from code enforcement and cybersecurity into the world of economic development—and the unique perspective that transition has given him.

Brian shares how collaboration, continuous learning, and a willingness to embrace new challenges helped shape his career. Along the way, he offers practical insights on building confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, and developing strong professional networks.

A major focus of the conversation is neurodiversity in the workplace. Brian discusses how understanding individual strengths, creating effective workarounds, and fostering inclusive environments can help organizations unlock talent and improve performance.

The discussion also explores the growing role of AI and technology in economic development. From improving communication to streamlining workflows, Brian highlights how professionals can use emerging tools while continuing to rely on critical thinking and human judgment.

A key takeaway? Success in economic development is built on curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse career experiences can create valuable perspectives in economic development

• Collaboration and mentorship are essential for professional growth

• Neurodiversity brings unique strengths and opportunities to the workplace

• AI can improve efficiency and communication when used strategically

• Continuous learning helps professionals adapt to change

• Building confidence often comes from taking on new challenges

Key Topics Covered

• Brian's journey into economic development

• Collaboration and professional networking

• Neurodiversity in the workplace

• AI and emerging technology trends

• Lifelong learning and personal growth

• Building confidence and overcoming challenges

Sound Bites

• "I once planned to be a professional mime."

• "Fear is self-imposed; I chose this career."

• "Use AI to check for grammatical errors."

What happens when creativity, community engagement, and data-driven strategy come together in economic development?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Jeanine Jerkovic, Economic Development Director for Surprise, Arizona, about the city's rapid growth and the innovative approaches helping shape its future.

Jeanine shares how Surprise has successfully attracted major retail investments, including projects like Costco and The Village at Prasada, while maintaining a strong focus on community needs and quality of life.

A major theme throughout the conversation is the importance of listening. Jeanine explains how engaging residents, understanding local priorities, and incorporating community feedback have helped guide development decisions and build public trust.

The discussion also highlights the role of creativity in economic development. From unique marketing efforts to unconventional outreach strategies, Jeanine demonstrates how personality and innovation can help communities stand out in a competitive landscape.

Entrepreneurship is another key focus, with insights into how business incubation, small business support, and ecosystem development are contributing to long-term economic growth.

Key Takeaways

• Community engagement is essential for sustainable growth

• Data and analytics help guide better development decisions

• Creativity can be a powerful economic development tool

• Retail attraction requires long-term strategy and persistence

• Entrepreneurship strengthens local economic resilience

• Balancing growth with community priorities builds trust and support

• A people-first approach creates stronger outcomes for residents and businesses

Key Topics Covered

• Retail attraction and major development wins

• Creative marketing and economic development strategies

• Community engagement and public input

• Data-driven decision-making

• Entrepreneurship and business incubation

• Managing growth while preserving community priorities

• Leadership and professional development

Sound Bites

• "Surprise, Arizona—the name says it all."

• "Adding thousands of homes every year."

• "17 retailers opened over 10 years."

What happens when a $50 billion data center investment comes to a rural region?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Rob Cleveland to explore the economic and community impact of Meta's massive data center project in northeast Louisiana.

Rob discusses how the project is creating jobs, expanding infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and creating new opportunities throughout the region. He also explains the site selection process and how communities can prepare to attract transformative investments.

The conversation also addresses common concerns and misconceptions surrounding data centers, including their impact on communities and the broader economy.

• Data centers can drive significant regional investment and job creation.

• Infrastructure readiness is critical to attracting major projects.

• Local businesses can benefit from large-scale development.

• Community engagement is essential when addressing concerns about data centers.

• Transformative projects can create economic benefits far beyond the project site.

• Meta's $50 billion investment

• Data centers and economic development

• Site selection and infrastructure

• Job creation and local business opportunities

• Community impact and public perception

"The numbers are staggering."

"This is the greatest project I've ever worked on."

"Nearly everybody in the region will be making more money."

What does the future hold for facility investment in an increasingly uncertain economy?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Jerry Szatan, a veteran site selection consultant with more than 35 years of experience, about the challenges and opportunities shaping investment decisions today.

Jerry shares why many companies are taking a more cautious approach to expansion, navigating economic uncertainty, shifting market conditions, and evolving business priorities before committing to major projects.

A major focus of the conversation is artificial intelligence and its growing role in site selection. While AI is helping companies analyze data faster than ever, Jerry emphasizes that technology is only as effective as the questions being asked—and that experience, judgment, and relationships remain critical components of decision-making.

The discussion also explores the importance of community readiness. From infrastructure and site preparedness to workforce capacity and long-term planning, communities must be ready to move quickly when opportunities emerge.

Throughout the episode, Jerry offers practical insights on how economic developers can position their communities for success despite an uncertain investment climate.

A key takeaway? While technology and market conditions continue to evolve, strong relationships, solid infrastructure, and strategic preparation remain the foundations of successful economic development.

Key Takeaways

• Economic uncertainty is causing companies to delay major investment decisions

• AI is accelerating analysis but cannot replace experience and judgment

• Relationships remain a critical factor in site selection decisions

• Community readiness is essential for attracting new projects

• Infrastructure and workforce capacity continue to drive competitiveness

• Strategic preparation helps communities capitalize on future opportunities

Key Topics Covered

• The impact of AI on site selection

• Market uncertainty and investment delays

• Community readiness and infrastructure planning

• Corporate decision-making in uncertain times

• Workforce and investment competitiveness

• Future trends in economic development

Sound Bites

• "AI is only as good as the questions you ask."

• "Relationships will not be replaced by AI."

• "Pledges are not shovels on the ground."

What does it take to manage rapid growth while preserving the character of a community?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Bill Cronin about his unique career journey from international shipping to economic development and the strategies driving growth in Pasco County, Florida.

Bill reflects on how economic development has evolved over the years, shifting from traditional business attraction efforts to a more comprehensive focus on workforce development, community engagement, quality of life, and long-term sustainability.

A major focus of the conversation is Pasco County's rapid growth and how local leaders are working to balance new opportunities with the needs of long-time residents. Bill emphasizes the importance of smart growth, regional collaboration, and thoughtful planning to ensure communities remain attractive places to live and work.

The discussion also explores the county's efforts to diversify its economy through industries such as food processing, life sciences, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing, while preparing for emerging opportunities tied to AI and data centers.

Throughout the episode, Bill shares leadership lessons learned from decades of experience, highlighting the importance of civic engagement, community service, and maintaining a clear vision for the future.

A key takeaway? Successful economic development requires balancing growth with community values while preparing for the industries and technologies that will shape tomorrow's economy.

Key Takeaways

• Economic development has evolved beyond traditional business attraction

• Smart growth requires balancing new development with community needs

• Industry diversification strengthens long-term economic resilience

• Regional collaboration creates greater opportunities for growth

• AI and data centers are reshaping future development strategies

• Community engagement remains essential for sustainable success

• Strong leadership is rooted in service, vision, and adaptability

Key Topics Covered

• Bill Cronin's career journey into economic development

• The evolution of economic development strategies

• Pasco County's rapid growth and regional collaboration

• Industry diversification and targeted sectors

• AI, data centers, and emerging opportunities

• Community engagement and leadership development

• Future skills for economic development professionals

Sound Bites

• "Very few of us actually did this on purpose."

• "Balance legacy residents with smart growth."

• "AI can do in seconds what used to take years."