Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Learn more about Jason's journey in the economic development business from a one person shop to the CEO of a non-profit with six operating divisions.

Although his career original career path didn't work out, his experience in the community development space has been incredibly rewarding and personally fulfilling.

Get to know Jason on a more personal level in this episode.

Ensure you are prepared for the engineering team visiting your available building/site.

Learn about the magic behind 58 minute meetings.  Edward Everett was known for delivering powerful speeches, but they were far too long.  Are you doing that with your meetings?  If so, you need to rethink them.

Dennis shares his insight behind planning, organizing, and executing effective meetings.

Tax Increment Financing can be one of the most valuable local economic development tools, yet it it can seem overly complicated and is often misunderstood by the public.

In this episode, Jason walks through the basic mechanics of TIF by converting a 10 acre farm field into an industrial development deal.  This high level overview covers the basics of TIF and its application with a variety of tax revenue streams include property, sales, and income taxes.

Learn more about Dennis Fraise's journey in the economic development profession.  Dennis started his career as a sole proprietor in the photography business, and through a series of life changing events, is now the COO of a county economic development organization.  Hear about his quest to become an award-winning leader in workforce programming.

Get to know Dennis on a more personal level in this inspiring episode.

What does it take to have a successful career in economic development?

Although this business isn't rocket science, there are some personal qualities and traits that can be honed to improve your odds of becoming an economic development hero.  From public speaking and calendar planning to leading meetings and emotional intelligence, this episode offers some practical tips and tricks to up your game.

Leadership comes in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Any successful community organization is likely to require the assistance from a diverse array of individuals- each with their own unique perspective.

In this episode, Dennis and Jason outline the 9 leadership styles present in most community groups.  Learn how to identify each style and best channel that energy into accomplishing the mission.

From roads and bridges to broadband to the lock and dam system, the United States is not investing enough in its infrastructure.  After a fresh visit to Washington D.C., Jason and Dennis discuss their frustration with a lack of leadership on policies relative to economic development including infrastructure, regulation, and immigration.

Generational diversity in the non-profit workplace can be a wonderful thing, yet it can also create challenges. This episode provides a high level overview of Millennials, Gen-Xers, Boomers, and those from the Greatest Generation.  Learn how each of these groups can contribute to success in the workplace and in community leadership.

There is nothing worse than attending a poorly run meeting.  Dennis shares his quick tips and tricks for holding more effective meetings.