
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


Episode Summary: In this Develop This! episode, Joi Cuartero Austin is joined by Erik Reader, Director of Illinois Main Street, to reflect on the 2025 Main Street Now Conference in Philadelphia—and explore how communities can spark connection and belonging with visitors.
From bike rides through vibrant neighborhoods to high-energy welcomes from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, this year’s conference was more than just workshops—it was a fully immersive experience. Joi and Erik dive into how the conference format continues to evolve to inspire, connect, and equip economic development leaders.
But beyond the conference buzz, the conversation turns to a bigger idea: What does it take for someone to fall in love with a place? Borrowing a tourism favorite—"the first date" analogy—the duo explores how a community’s vibe, downtown experience, and sense of hospitality can move someone from visitor to investor, new resident, or lifelong champion.
Key Topics Covered:
"Those who visit first are more likely to return, invest, or even call your community home—so roll out the red carpet."
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SJIh_j5kRgqpj7DUfwZMjw
By Develop This! Podcast4.3
4545 ratings
Episode Summary: In this Develop This! episode, Joi Cuartero Austin is joined by Erik Reader, Director of Illinois Main Street, to reflect on the 2025 Main Street Now Conference in Philadelphia—and explore how communities can spark connection and belonging with visitors.
From bike rides through vibrant neighborhoods to high-energy welcomes from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, this year’s conference was more than just workshops—it was a fully immersive experience. Joi and Erik dive into how the conference format continues to evolve to inspire, connect, and equip economic development leaders.
But beyond the conference buzz, the conversation turns to a bigger idea: What does it take for someone to fall in love with a place? Borrowing a tourism favorite—"the first date" analogy—the duo explores how a community’s vibe, downtown experience, and sense of hospitality can move someone from visitor to investor, new resident, or lifelong champion.
Key Topics Covered:
"Those who visit first are more likely to return, invest, or even call your community home—so roll out the red carpet."
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_SJIh_j5kRgqpj7DUfwZMjw

30,670 Listeners

30,066 Listeners

8,708 Listeners

16,761 Listeners

992 Listeners

4,382 Listeners

424 Listeners

87,200 Listeners

368,325 Listeners

6,448 Listeners

2,998 Listeners

1,307 Listeners

15 Listeners

18,391 Listeners

4 Listeners