Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Why are data centers generating so much debate in communities across the country?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Dan Culhane to kick off a brand-new series exploring one of the most controversial topics in economic development: Why Does Everyone Hate Data Centers?

Rather than taking sides, Dan encourages communities to ask better questions before making decisions. He explains why the conversation shouldn't simply be about saying "yes" or "no" to data centers, but about understanding their long-term impacts, evaluating tradeoffs, and ensuring projects create meaningful value for local residents.

The discussion explores the economic opportunities data centers can bring, particularly for rural communities, through increased property tax revenue, infrastructure investment, and long-term community partnerships. Dan also addresses many of the concerns surrounding these projects—including electricity demand, water consumption, noise, environmental impacts, and sustainability—and explains how advances in technology and thoughtful planning are helping address many of these challenges.

Throughout the conversation, Dan emphasizes the importance of transparency, responsible corporate citizenship, and constructive dialogue between developers, local officials, and community members. Communities that ask informed questions and negotiate from a position of knowledge are better equipped to secure projects that align with their long-term vision.

Develop This! is launching a special series titled "Why Does Everyone Hate Data Centers?" featuring perspectives from across the conversation—including developers, community leaders, policymakers, utilities, and economic development professionals. If you'd like to be part of this important discussion as a guest on Develop This!, we'd love to connect with you.

A key takeaway? The best community decisions don't come from fear or hype—they come from asking the right questions and focusing on long-term community value.

• Communities should evaluate data center projects based on long-term community benefits.

• Data centers can provide significant tax revenue and investment, especially in rural areas.

• Modern data centers are becoming more efficient in their use of water and energy.

• Concerns around noise, infrastructure, and sustainability can often be addressed through thoughtful planning.

• Strong corporate citizenship and community engagement are essential for successful projects.

• Better questions lead to better decisions for communities and developers alike.

• Why data centers have become a controversial issue

• Evaluating community benefits and tradeoffs

• Economic impacts for rural communities

• Water, power, noise, and sustainability considerations

• Infrastructure planning and responsible development

• Building trust through corporate citizenship and transparency

"Ask better questions, not just yes or no."

"Data centers can be a huge opportunity for rural America."

"Good corporate citizenship is part of community success."

What can attendees expect from the 2026 IEDC Annual Conference in New Orleans?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), for an exclusive preview of the 2026 IEDC Annual Conference in New Orleans. As IEDC celebrates 100 years of economic development, Nathan shares how this milestone event will honor the profession's rich history while focusing on the innovations shaping its future.

The conversation explores why New Orleans was selected to host the centennial conference and how the city's resilience, culture, and economic transformation make it the perfect backdrop for this historic gathering. Nathan also provides a behind-the-scenes look at new conference experiences, including town halls, community tours, networking opportunities, and interactive sessions designed to help attendees build lasting connections.

A major focus of the conference is preparing economic developers for the future. Nathan discusses emerging topics such as artificial intelligence, system integration, workforce development, housing, and placemaking, explaining how these issues are reshaping communities around the world. He also offers practical advice for first-time attendees on maximizing networking opportunities, navigating the conference, and getting the most value from the experience.

Whether you're a seasoned economic developer or attending your first IEDC conference, this episode offers a roadmap for making the most of one of the profession's most significant events.

A key takeaway? The best conference experience isn't just about the sessions you attend—it's about the connections you make and the ideas you bring back to your community.

• The 2026 IEDC Annual Conference celebrates 100 years of economic development.

• New Orleans provides a powerful backdrop of resilience, culture, and innovation.

• AI, placemaking, housing, and workforce development are among the conference's major themes.

• New interactive formats and community tours will create deeper learning experiences.

• Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of the conference.

• Planning ahead and engaging early helps attendees maximize their conference experience.

• Celebrating IEDC's 100th anniversary

• Why New Orleans was selected as the host city

• AI, system integration, housing, and workforce trends

• Placemaking and cultural economy

• Conference networking strategies

• Behind-the-scenes tours and special conference experiences

"Best networking device is what you put in."

"The way we get to the centennial celebration will be unlike anything before."

"Show up at the first reception in the exhibit hall."

Artificial intelligence is no longer just a big tech conversation. For small businesses, microbusinesses, makers, solopreneurs, and entrepreneurs, AI literacy is quickly becoming a practical economic development issue.

In this episode of Develop This!, Joi Cuartero Austin talks with Tasha Sams, Director of Education at Main Street America, about what AI literacy really means for local businesses and why it matters for Main Street communities. The conversation explores how AI can help entrepreneurs build capacity, save time, strengthen marketing, improve operations, and make more informed decisions, especially for business owners who are often wearing every hat themselves.

But this conversation is not about automating everything. Joi and Tasha also explore the rise of analog and low-tech business concepts, from vinyl cafes and record shops to video rental stores, bookstores, and other experience-based businesses and what that resurgence tells us about the value of human connection, curation, memory, and place.

The episode makes the case that the future of small business may not be AI versus analog. It may be high-tech behind the scenes and deeply human at the counter.

How can communities create lasting economic mobility in a rapidly changing world?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Anne Bovaird Nevins about her remarkable career journey—from the White House and the Olympic movement to leading national initiatives focused on economic and community development.

Drawing on decades of experience, Anne shares lessons on leadership, collaboration, and the importance of building authentic relationships around a clear mission. She explains how successful communities create momentum by aligning people, resources, and long-term goals around shared outcomes.

A major focus of the conversation is economic mobility and the role local leaders play in expanding opportunity. Anne highlights innovative approaches being used in communities like Charlotte, North Carolina, where investments in transit, infrastructure, and regional collaboration are helping connect residents to jobs and economic opportunity.

The discussion also explores emerging trends shaping the future of economic development, including affordability challenges, artificial intelligence, workforce development, and the growing importance of regional alignment.

Throughout the episode, Anne emphasizes a simple but powerful principle: great leaders leave places better than they found them.

A key takeaway? Economic development is most effective when it combines strong leadership, strategic investment, and a commitment to improving opportunities for people.

Key Takeaways

• Economic mobility requires intentional investment and long-term vision

• Strong leadership starts with authentic relationships and a clear mission

• Infrastructure and transit investments can expand economic opportunity

• Regional collaboration creates stronger and more sustainable outcomes

• Communities must adapt to trends such as AI and affordability challenges

• Lasting impact comes from improving opportunities for future generations

Key Topics Covered

• Anne Nevins' career journey and leadership lessons

• Economic mobility and community impact strategies

• Regional collaboration and alignment

• Infrastructure and transit investments

• Workforce development and future trends

• AI, affordability, and the evolving economic landscape

Sound Bites

• "Athlete experience is the core of Olympic organizing."

• "Invest in physical infrastructure to drive mobility."

• "Always leave a place better than you found it."

What's driving Cincinnati's rise as one of the Midwest's most dynamic economic engines?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Kimm Lauterbach, CEO of REDI Cincinnati, about the region's rapid growth and the strategies positioning it as a national leader in innovation, investment, and industry.

Kimm shares how Cincinnati has built momentum through a combination of regional collaboration, strong industry clusters, and a commitment to workforce development. The conversation highlights how partnerships across state lines are helping the region compete more effectively for investment and talent.

A major focus is Cincinnati's growing strength in life sciences and biopharma, where companies such as Medpace and CTI have helped establish the region as a recognized hub for research, innovation, and commercialization.

The discussion also explores the region's leadership in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and food innovation—industries that continue to drive economic growth while creating opportunities for workforce development and business expansion.

Looking ahead, Kimm discusses the role of innovation districts, research partnerships, and international investment in shaping Cincinnati's future and sustaining long-term competitiveness.

A key takeaway? Cincinnati's success is built on collaboration, industry specialization, and a clear vision for regional growth.

Key Takeaways

• Cincinnati is experiencing strong economic growth across multiple industries

• Regional collaboration strengthens competitiveness and investment attraction

• Life sciences and biopharma have become major economic drivers

• Aerospace and advanced manufacturing remain key regional strengths

• Workforce development supports long-term industry growth

• Innovation districts and research partnerships are fueling future opportunities

• Foreign direct investment continues to play an important role in expansion

Key Topics Covered

• Cincinnati's economic growth and recognition

• Foreign direct investment and international companies

• Regional multi-state collaboration strategies

• Life sciences and biopharma development

• Workforce development and training programs

• Aerospace and advanced manufacturing

• Food and beverage innovation

• Innovation districts and research partnerships

Sound Bites

• "Success stories like Medpace and CTI."

• "Overindexing in aerospace engineering."

• "Regional collaboration creates greater opportunity."

What can economic developers learn from a career that spans the public sector, entrepreneurship, and consulting?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Ruth Buchanan, founder of Buchanan Advisors, about her journey through economic development and the lessons that led her to launch her own consulting firm.

Drawing on experience across multiple sectors, Ruth shares insights on navigating complex development projects, building trust among stakeholders, and helping communities move ambitious initiatives from concept to reality.

A major theme throughout the conversation is continuous learning. Ruth discusses the importance of staying informed, understanding market trends, and adapting to changing economic conditions in order to remain effective in a rapidly evolving profession.

The discussion also explores public-private partnerships, highlighting the collaboration, communication, and project management skills required to bring diverse groups together around shared goals.

Another key focus is supporting second-stage companies—businesses that have moved beyond startup status and are poised for growth. Ruth explains why helping these firms scale can have a significant impact on local economies and long-term community prosperity.

A key takeaway? Successful economic development is built on trust, lifelong learning, and the ability to bring people together around a common vision.

Key Takeaways

• Continuous learning is essential for long-term success in economic development

• Public-private partnerships require trust, communication, and collaboration

• Supporting second-stage companies can drive significant economic growth

• Data and market analysis improve decision-making and project outcomes

• Strong stakeholder relationships help navigate complex projects

• Adaptability is critical as technology and business environments evolve

Key Topics Covered

• Career transition from economic development to consulting

• Lessons learned from diverse leadership roles

• Public-private partnership project management

• Supporting second-stage business growth

• Trust-building and stakeholder engagement

• Data, market analysis, and emerging technologies

• Community redevelopment and strategic planning

Sound Bites

• "Continuous learning is essential for growth."

• "Trust is the foundation of successful projects."

• "The best solutions come from understanding both people and markets."

How is technology changing the way communities compete for investment and talent?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Matt Szuhaj, EVP of Strategic Development Group, to explore more than three decades of change in site selection and economic development.

Drawing on 30 years of experience, Matt shares how location strategy has evolved from a focus on cost and infrastructure to a more complex evaluation of talent, quality of life, community identity, and long-term competitiveness.

A major focus of the conversation is artificial intelligence and its growing influence on economic development. Matt explains how AI is accelerating access to information and reshaping decision-making, while emphasizing that human judgment, experience, and intuition remain essential.

The discussion also explores how communities can better position themselves in an AI-driven world through strong branding, accurate data, and proactive storytelling. For rural communities, emerging technologies and remote work trends may create new opportunities to attract residents, businesses, and investment.

Throughout the episode, Matt highlights the importance of trust, credibility, and first impressions—factors that continue to play a critical role in site selection despite advances in technology.

A key takeaway? Technology may change the tools, but successful economic development still depends on strong communities, clear messaging, and trusted relationships.

Key Takeaways

• AI is transforming how information is gathered and analyzed

• Human experience and intuition remain critical in decision-making

• Community branding is increasingly important in the AI era

• Rural communities have new opportunities through remote work and technology

• Trust and credibility continue to influence site selection decisions

• Strong data and storytelling help communities stand out

Key Topics Covered

• Evolution of location strategy over 30 years

• AI and economic development decision-making

• Community branding and character of life

• Rural communities and remote work opportunities

• Data, marketing, and investment attraction

• Trust and first impressions in site selection

Sound Bites

• "AI accelerates access to information."

• "AI doesn't have intuition or experience."

• "Control your narrative in the AI age."

How can leaders build stronger teams in a workplace shaped by multiple generations?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Mark Perna to explore how generational differences, economic realities, and rapid technological change are reshaping today's workforce.

Mark shares insights into the strengths and challenges of working across generations—from Baby Boomers to Gen Z—and explains why understanding different perspectives is essential for building collaborative, high-performing teams.

A major focus of the conversation is the changing economic landscape facing younger workers. Rising housing costs, student debt, and evolving career expectations are influencing how people view work, leadership, and long-term success.

The discussion also examines how technology and AI are transforming the workplace, requiring leaders to balance innovation with human connection, trust, and effective communication.

Throughout the episode, Mark emphasizes that successful leadership is built on listening, empowering others, and creating environments where people of all ages can contribute their unique strengths.

A key takeaway? Organizations that embrace generational diversity and foster mutual respect will be better equipped to innovate, adapt, and thrive.

Key Takeaways

• Every generation brings unique strengths and perspectives to the workplace

• Understanding economic realities helps leaders better engage younger employees

• Multi-generational teams drive innovation and better decision-making

• Strong leadership requires trust, listening, and decisive action

• Education, employment, and community must work together to develop talent

• AI and technology are changing how organizations lead and collaborate

Key Topics Covered

• Generational shifts in the workforce

• Economic challenges facing younger workers

• Multi-generational leadership strategies

• Technology, AI, and the future of work

• Education and workforce development

• Building trust and effective communication across generations

Sound Bites

• "Every generation imagines itself to be more intelligent."

• "The world changes, it shifts, everybody adapts."

• "Decisive action is critical for leadership."

What separates communities that win major investments from those that get left behind?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Tess Fay, Vice President of Global Location Strategies, to explore the increasingly complex world of site selection and the factors shaping the future of U.S. manufacturing.

Tess shares how companies evaluate locations through the lens of long-term risk, infrastructure capacity, workforce strength, and community readiness. With major investment decisions carrying consequences for decades, preparation and execution have never been more important.

A major theme throughout the conversation is trust. Tess explains why communities that communicate clearly, maintain realistic timelines, and consistently deliver on commitments build the credibility needed to compete for large-scale projects.

The discussion also dives into growing infrastructure challenges, particularly around energy availability. As demand for manufacturing and industrial development continues to grow, access to reliable power is becoming one of the most critical factors in site selection.

Workforce resilience, strategic partnerships, and strong local leadership also emerge as essential ingredients for long-term success, helping communities adapt to changing economic conditions and evolving industry needs.

A key takeaway? Winning projects isn't just about having a site available—it's about being prepared, building trust, and demonstrating long-term capability.

Key Takeaways

• Major site selection decisions are shaped by long-term business needs

• Infrastructure and energy availability are becoming critical competitive factors

• Trust and credibility play a major role in investment decisions

• Workforce resilience is essential for sustainable growth

• Strategic partnerships strengthen community competitiveness

• Preparation and execution often determine which communities win projects

Key Topics Covered

• Site selection complexity and scarcity management

• Community preparation and trust-building

• Infrastructure readiness and energy challenges

• Workforce resiliency and sustainability

• Strategic partnerships and political will

• The future of U.S. manufacturing

Sound Bites

• "Decisions impact the company's future for decades."

• "Buttoned-up timelines build trust and credibility."

• "Trust and solutions orientation build confidence."

What does it take to build resilient communities in an era of rapid economic change?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Ryan Silva, Executive Director of the New York State Economic Development Council, about the policies, partnerships, and strategies shaping economic growth across New York.

Ryan shares insights on how data-driven decision-making is helping communities plan for the future, attract investment, and navigate increasingly complex economic challenges. From workforce development to infrastructure planning, the conversation highlights the importance of grounding strategy in reliable research and long-term thinking.

A major focus is the impact of the CHIPS and semiconductor investments transforming regions across the country. Ryan discusses how large-scale projects create opportunities for growth while also requiring communities to think carefully about readiness, workforce capacity, and supporting infrastructure.

The discussion also explores the balance between pursuing major economic wins and ensuring smaller communities have the tools and resources needed to thrive. Throughout the episode, Ryan emphasizes the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and continuous professional development in a rapidly evolving field.

A key takeaway? Successful economic development is built on preparation, partnerships, and a willingness to embrace both opportunity and change.

Key Takeaways

• Data and research are essential for effective economic development strategy

• Semiconductor investments are reshaping regional economies

• Community readiness is critical for attracting large-scale projects

• Workforce development and infrastructure remain top priorities

• Small communities can thrive through resilience and strategic planning

• Collaboration and adaptability drive long-term success

Key Topics Covered

• Economic development policy and initiatives

• Data-driven planning and decision-making

• Impact of the CHIPS Act and semiconductor investments

• Workforce and infrastructure development

• Community readiness and regional growth

• Professional development in economic development

Sound Bites

• "Finding a way to get to yes."

• "Building the plane while flying it."

• "Hope in small community resilience."