Develop This: Economic and Community Development

What does it take to transform a community while ensuring everyone benefits from the growth?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Clyde Higgs, President & CEO of Atlanta Beltline, Inc, about one of the most ambitious community redevelopment projects in the United States.

Clyde shares his unique journey from healthcare leadership into economic development and explains how large-scale infrastructure projects can serve as catalysts for economic growth, community revitalization, and long-term opportunity.

A major focus of the conversation is community-led development. Rather than imposing change from the top down, the Atlanta BeltLine has prioritized public engagement, trust-building, and ensuring that residents have a voice in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.

The discussion also explores the challenges of balancing growth with equity, particularly when it comes to housing affordability and ensuring redevelopment benefits both existing and future residents.

Throughout the episode, Clyde highlights the importance of mentorship, relationship-building, and lifelong learning as essential leadership skills for economic developers navigating increasingly complex challenges.

A key takeaway? Successful redevelopment is not just about infrastructure—it's about creating opportunities, building trust, and putting people at the center of growth.

Key Takeaways

• Community engagement is essential to successful redevelopment projects

• Infrastructure investments can be powerful catalysts for economic growth

• Equitable housing must be part of long-term development strategies

• Public trust is critical in community transformation efforts

• Mentorship and relationship-building are key leadership skills

• Economic development is ultimately about improving opportunities for people

Key Topics Covered

• Community-led redevelopment strategies

• Economic impact of infrastructure investments

• Equitable housing and neighborhood revitalization

• Leadership and mentorship in economic development

• Public trust and community engagement

• The future of economic development

Sound Bites

• "Everyone knows something you don't know."

• "You're not as smart as you think you are."

• "People are the greatest source of optimism."

What makes some communities stand out while others struggle to tell their story?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Sandy Dubay, CEO of PPR Strategies, about the growing importance of communication, branding, and storytelling in economic development.

Drawing on her experience in both economic development and public relations, Sandy explains why authentic storytelling has become one of the most powerful tools communities can use to attract investment, build trust, and create lasting connections.

The conversation explores common communication mistakes organizations make, the importance of maintaining consistent messaging, and how communities can develop brands that reflect who they truly are rather than who they want to be.

A major focus is the challenge of communicating across generations. Sandy shares practical insights on adapting messages to different audiences, leveraging social media effectively, and meeting people where they are without losing authenticity.

The discussion also covers crisis communication, media relations, and the leadership skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex communication environment.

A key takeaway? Strong communities are built on strong stories—and the most effective stories are authentic, consistent, and centered on people.

Key Takeaways

• Authentic storytelling strengthens community identity and growth

• Consistent messaging is essential for effective branding

• Communities should focus on stories that genuinely resonate with audiences

• Communication strategies must adapt to different generations

• Strong media relationships help amplify community success stories

• Crisis communication requires preparation, transparency, and trust

Key Topics Covered

• Evolution of economic development and community branding

• Authentic storytelling and community messaging

• Media relations and communication strategy

• Generational communication differences

• Social media and audience engagement

• Leadership and crisis communication

Sound Bites

• "Tell the stories that truly resonate."

• "Consistency is critical in branding."

• "Meet your audience where they are."

What if the next wave of economic growth starts with local entrepreneurs?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Rob Williams of SourceLink to explore how entrepreneurship-led economic development can help communities build stronger, more resilient economies.

Rob shares how communities—especially rural ones—can leverage their unique assets to support entrepreneurs, strengthen local ecosystems, and create long-term growth from within.

The conversation highlights SourceLink's ecosystem approach, focusing on how connecting entrepreneurs to the right resources, partners, and support networks can reduce fragmentation and accelerate success.

A major theme is measurement. Rob discusses why communities need better ways to track entrepreneurial activity, job creation, and ecosystem health beyond traditional economic development metrics.

The discussion also explores the growing role of AI, broadband, and technology in unlocking innovation at scale and expanding access for entrepreneurs in both rural and urban markets.

A key takeaway? Strong entrepreneurial ecosystems are built through connection, collaboration, and a clear understanding of what local businesses need to grow.

Key Takeaways

• Entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of local economic growth

• Young firms play a major role in job creation

• Rural communities can build innovation around their unique assets

• Strong ecosystems require clear connections between resources and entrepreneurs

• AI and broadband are expanding access to innovation

• Success should be measured through ecosystem health, not just traditional metrics

Key Topics Covered

• Entrepreneurship-led economic development

• Rural innovation and community assets

• SourceLink's ecosystem-building approach

• Metrics for entrepreneurial success

• AI and technology in entrepreneurship

• Economic development education and the role of IEDC

Sound Bites

• "Job creation starts with young firms."

• "AI is unlocking innovation at scale."

• "Connect, collaborate, and innovate."

What role do public-private partnerships play in the future of economic development?

In this panel episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise explores the evolving PPP landscape with Joachim Arnold, Matt Chambers, and Clint Nessmith, bringing together perspectives from the U.S. and Europe.

The conversation dives into how economic development organizations are rethinking funding models, private sector engagement, and long-term sustainability in a changing global environment.

A major focus is funding diversification. The panel discusses why stable, flexible funding matters—and how structured campaigns can help formalize private sector participation in economic growth strategies.

The discussion also explores global FDI trends, infrastructure investment, geopolitical uncertainty, and the importance of adapting economic development models to local and international realities.

A key takeaway? Strong public-private partnerships create the structure, trust, and shared investment needed to drive sustainable economic growth.

Key Takeaways

• Public-private partnerships are evolving across global markets

• Funding diversification is critical for long-term sustainability

• Private sector engagement strengthens economic development strategy

• Geopolitical uncertainty is reshaping investment decisions

• Community engagement can open new doors for growth

• Structured campaigns help formalize stakeholder participation

Key Topics Covered

• Public-private partnership models

• Funding diversification in economic development

• Global trends in FDI and infrastructure investment

• U.S. and European economic development strategies

• Stakeholder and private sector engagement

• Adapting to geopolitical uncertainty

Sound Bites

• "Funding stability is a key strength of the US model."

• "Community engagement opens doors for economic growth."

• "Structured campaigns formalize private sector engagement."

What happens when rapid tech growth collides with a city's cultural identity?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Jon Roberts and Tracy McDaniel of TIP Strategies to explore the evolution of Austin's tech boom—and the social and economic trade-offs that come with it.

Once known for its distinct culture and creative energy, Austin has become one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the U.S. But as investment and innovation accelerate, the conversation turns to a harder question: what gets lost in the process?

The discussion unpacks the growing tensions between economic expansion and community impact, including rising disparities, housing pressures, and the challenge of maintaining Austin's identity amid large-scale development.

A key theme is the need to rethink how success is measured in economic development—moving beyond pure growth metrics to include equity, inclusion, and long-term community health.

The conversation also touches on emerging forces like AI and data infrastructure, and how they may further reshape the city's trajectory in the years ahead.

A central takeaway? Growth without inclusion risks reshaping not just economies—but the communities they're meant to serve.

Key Takeaways

• Austin's tech growth is reshaping its cultural and economic identity

• Rapid development has created increasing social and economic disparities

• Inclusive growth requires intentional community engagement strategies

• Traditional economic metrics may overlook equity and livability

• AI and data infrastructure will continue to influence urban development

• Balancing innovation with identity is a growing challenge for cities

Key Topics Covered

• Evolution of Austin's tech ecosystem

• Cultural identity and urban transformation

• Social and economic impacts of rapid growth

• Inclusive economic development strategies

• Gentrification and community displacement

• AI, data centers, and future urban trends

Sound Bites

• "Are we losing Austin's identity?"

• "AI will run out of things to mine."

• "Austin will always be magnetic."

What does it take for rural communities to compete and grow in today's economy?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Jolene Schalper, EVP of the Great Falls Montana Development Alliance, to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping rural economic development.

Jolene shares her journey from nonprofit leadership into economic development and explains how collaboration, creativity, and community trust play critical roles in driving regional growth.

The conversation highlights how Great Falls is leveraging local strengths to support entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create long-term economic momentum. Workforce and housing challenges are also a major focus, with Jolene emphasizing the importance of data-driven strategies and proactive planning to support sustainable growth.

The discussion also explores how rural communities can position themselves competitively for larger opportunities, including foreign direct investment, while still maintaining strong local identity and community connections.

A key takeaway? Rural communities have unique advantages—and with the right leadership, partnerships, and vision, they can compete far beyond their size.

Key Takeaways

• Rural communities can compete by leveraging local strengths and partnerships

• Collaboration and trust-building are essential for long-term growth

• Entrepreneurship plays a major role in rural economic resilience

• Housing and workforce challenges require proactive, data-driven solutions

• Creativity and adaptability are critical in economic development leadership

• Rural regions can successfully attract major investment opportunities

Key Topics Covered

• Rural economic development strategies

• Community collaboration and leadership

• Entrepreneurship and small business support

• Workforce and housing challenges

• Foreign direct investment opportunities

• Professional development in economic development

Sound Bites

• "Data drives decisions in our housing strategy."

• "We swing for the fences to grow our community."

• "Second place sucks—no ribbon for losing."

What does it take to rebuild an economy after a disaster—and turn it into a model for long-term growth?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Michael Hecht, CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., to explore lessons learned from leading economic recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina and 9/11.

Michael shares how New Orleans approached rebuilding not just infrastructure, but its entire economic foundation—balancing urgency with long-term strategy, and recovery with reinvention.

A major theme is the importance of community involvement in shaping recovery efforts. He emphasizes that post-disaster planning cannot be top-down, and that successful rebuilding requires both structure and local autonomy to respond effectively to evolving needs.

The conversation also highlights how New Orleans has leveraged innovation, incentives, and workforce development to reposition itself for future growth—particularly in emerging sectors like tech and innovation.

A key takeaway? Economic recovery is not just about rebuilding what was lost—it's about designing something stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient.

Key Takeaways

• Post-disaster recovery requires both structure and local autonomy

• Community involvement is essential in rebuilding efforts

• Incentives must balance short-term recovery with long-term value

• Workforce development is critical to economic resilience

• Innovation is playing a growing role in New Orleans' economic shift

• Strong leadership is key to navigating complex recovery environments

Key Topics Covered

• Post-disaster economic recovery strategies

• Lessons from Hurricane Katrina and 9/11 recovery efforts

• Community involvement in economic planning

• Workforce development and skills alignment

• Incentive design for sustainable growth

• Leadership approaches in crisis and recovery

Sound Bites

• "You can't plan top down post disaster."

• "Create structure but give autonomy."

• "Stay proactive and avoid complacency."

What does it take to build thriving communities across an entire region?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Barb Lamue to explore her unique journey from law enforcement to economic development—and the leadership lessons she's learned along the way.

Drawing from decades of experience in regional collaboration and workforce strategy, Barb shares how trust, authenticity, and long-term relationship building have helped shape successful community development efforts across Wisconsin.

A major focus of the conversation is workforce development, particularly the growing importance of digital upskilling, adaptability, and preparing communities for the future of work. Barb also discusses the role mentorship and continuous learning play in developing effective leaders and resilient organizations.

The discussion highlights the power of regional partnerships and public-private collaboration, showing how aligned communities can create stronger economic outcomes than isolated efforts.

A key takeaway? Sustainable economic development starts with people—building trust, investing in talent, and leading with authenticity.

Key Takeaways

• Regional collaboration is built on trust and long-term relationships

• Workforce development and digital skills are critical for future growth

• Authentic leadership strengthens community impact

• Mentorship and lifelong learning are essential in economic development

• Public-private partnerships drive stronger regional outcomes

• Community prosperity requires intentional collaboration and service

Key Topics Covered

• Transition from law enforcement to economic development

• Regional collaboration and trust-building

• Workforce development and digital upskilling

• Leadership lessons and mentorship

• Community impact and innovative programs

• Future trends in economic development and AI

Sound Bites

• "Act with integrity and be the best version of yourself"

• "Our mission is always to build prosperity for communities"

• "Be authentic and true to yourself in community support"

What does it take for a small country to compete for high-value global investment in today's economy?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Pilar Madrigal of the Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency to explore how Costa Rica is evolving into a strategic hub for advanced industries and foreign direct investment.

From its geographic position connecting North and South America to its growing reputation in high-tech sectors, Costa Rica is positioning itself as more than a nearshoring destination—it's becoming a knowledge-driven economy focused on long-term value creation.

Pilar explains how the country has successfully diversified beyond tourism into industries such as life sciences, digital health, medical technology, AI, and advanced manufacturing. This transformation is powered by a strong emphasis on talent development and education, which she describes as the foundation of Costa Rica's competitiveness.

A key theme throughout the conversation is that investment decisions are shifting. Companies are no longer just prioritizing cost or proximity—they are evaluating talent availability, risk mitigation, ecosystem stability, and total operating value.

The discussion also highlights the importance of trust and strategic advisory relationships in attracting and retaining global investors, as well as Costa Rica's intentional focus on building long-term partnerships rather than transactional wins.

A central takeaway? Costa Rica's competitive edge lies not in scale, but in stability, talent, and a deliberate strategy to move up the value chain.

Key Takeaways

• Costa Rica serves as a strategic bridge between North and South America

• The economy is shifting from tourism to high-value knowledge industries

• Talent development is the core driver of long-term competitiveness

• Nearshoring now prioritizes resilience and value over proximity alone

• Trust and long-term partnerships are key to investor attraction

• Stability and ecosystem maturity offset size limitations

• Investment decisions increasingly focus on total operating value

Key Topics Covered

• Costa Rica's geographic and strategic advantages

• Economic diversification into high-tech and life sciences

• Workforce development and talent pipeline strategies

• Challenges of scale and cost competitiveness

• Role of investment promotion and advisory strategy

• Nearshoring and global investment trends

• Trust-building with international investors

Sound Bites

• "The main hurdle is the size of the talent pool."

• "The future of FDI is about transformation."

• "A common mistake is competing only on cost."

What role do big, bold visions play in shaping stronger communities and more effective leaders?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Mark Perna to explore how optimism, storytelling, and ambitious goals can inspire innovation, community engagement, and long-term growth.

Drawing inspiration from the Apollo 11 Moon Landing, the conversation examines how major rallying points can unite people around a shared purpose and create momentum for transformational change.

Mark and Dennis discuss the importance of balancing realism with aspiration in leadership, emphasizing that communities need both practical strategies and compelling visions for the future. They also highlight how storytelling helps leaders connect emotionally with people and build trust around bold ideas.

A major theme throughout the episode is courage—the willingness to make decisive moves, embrace uncertainty, and think beyond short-term challenges in pursuit of meaningful progress.

A key takeaway? People are drawn to hope, purpose, and leaders who are willing to think bigger than the moment in front of them.

Key Takeaways

• Optimism and vision are essential drivers of community growth

• Shared rallying points can unite and energize communities

• Storytelling strengthens leadership and public engagement

• Effective leaders balance realism with aspiration

• Courage and decisiveness are critical in driving change

• Long-term thinking is necessary for lasting impact

Key Topics Covered

• Vision and optimism in leadership

• Apollo and transformational thinking

• Community engagement through storytelling

• Leadership habits that fuel innovation

• Balancing aspiration with practical action

• Purpose-driven leadership for future generations

Sound Bites

• "People want hope more than anything"

• "What's in it for me?"

• "Fear of loss drives big, audacious goals"