DT #655 Building Thriving Communities: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of Regional
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Release Date: 06/17/2026
DT #654 Rebuilding Better: How New Orleans Turned Disaster Into Long-Term Economic Growth
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
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!, speaks with , CEO of , 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,...
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DT #655 Building Thriving Communities: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of Regional
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What does it take to build thriving communities across an entire region? In this episode of Develop This!, speaks with 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...
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DT #652 Small Country, Big Strategy: Costa Rica’s Rise in High-Value Global Investment
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
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!, speaks with of the 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...
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DT #653 Leading with Vision: Why Communities Need Big, Audacious Goals
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What role do big, bold visions play in shaping stronger communities and more effective leaders? In this episode of Develop This!, is joined by 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...
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DT #669 Smaller Business Week: Why Microbusinesses Matter
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
In celebration of Small Business Week, this episode of Develop This! takes a closer look at the businesses that are often small in size but powerful in impact: microbusinesses. Friend of the show, brings , co-founder of to speak with Joi Cuartero Austin for a conversation about why communities should pay closer attention to solopreneurs, makers, freelancers, consultants, pop-up vendors, home-based businesses, side hustlers, and gig workers. Together, they explore how these “smaller” businesses contribute to local economies, build community identity, create flexible income...
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DT #650 Building Inclusive Economies: How Private Sector Lessons Drive Community Transformation
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What does it take to build economies that are truly inclusive—and built for long-term impact? In this episode of Develop This!, speaks with to explore his diverse career spanning the private sector, entrepreneurship, and community development—and how those experiences shape his approach to economic transformation today. Philip shares how lessons from the private sector can directly inform economic development strategy, especially when it comes to innovation, ecosystem building, and driving measurable community impact. The conversation also highlights the importance of addressing systemic...
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DT #651 Lithuania Rising: How a Small Nation Became a Global Hub for FinTech and Innovation
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
How did Lithuania transform itself into one of Europe’s fastest-rising investment and innovation hubs? In this episode of Develop This!, speaks with from to explore the country’s remarkable economic evolution and growing global influence. From FinTech and global business services to defense and data centers, Lithuania has positioned itself as a competitive destination for high-value investment. Ruta explains how the country’s strategic location, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly environment continue to attract international companies and talent. A major focus of the...
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DT #648 Why Hungary Wins: Inside Europe’s Fastest-Evolving Investment Destination
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What makes a country stand out in the global race for investment? In this episode of Develop This!, speaks with of the to explore why Hungary has become one of Central Europe’s most dynamic investment destinations. From its strategic location at the heart of Europe to its deep integration into the EU single market, Hungary offers companies access to major markets, efficient logistics, and strong infrastructure. Fadi explains how the country’s positioning enables fast access across Europe while supporting complex global supply chains. The conversation dives into Hungary’s economic...
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DT #649 The New Rules of Site Selection: Power, Risk, and the Future of Industrial Location Strategy
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What are the new rules shaping where major industrial projects choose to land? In this episode of Develop This!, speaks with , Director of Site Selection at , to unpack how technology, geopolitics, and infrastructure demands are reshaping modern site selection. Courtney breaks down how today’s location decisions are being influenced far beyond traditional cost factors. From energy availability to geopolitical stability, companies are weighing risks and long-term resilience more heavily than ever before. A major focus of the conversation is infrastructure—especially power. As industries...
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DT #646 Dress the Part: How Personal Style Shapes Confidence and Career Success
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
How much does what you wear actually shape how you’re perceived—and how you perform? In this episode of Develop This!, is joined by , founder of , to explore his journey from a farm in Canada to becoming a leading voice in men’s fashion and personal styling. Dan breaks down the fundamentals of building a professional wardrobe, emphasizing why fit, quality, and intention matter more than trends. He also shares how personalized style can directly influence confidence, presence, and career success. The conversation explores the shift toward more casual dress codes, and why understanding...
info_outlineWhat 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
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Regional collaboration is built on trust and long-term relationships
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Workforce development and digital skills are critical for future growth
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Authentic leadership strengthens community impact
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Mentorship and lifelong learning are essential in economic development
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Public-private partnerships drive stronger regional outcomes
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Community prosperity requires intentional collaboration and service
Key Topics Covered
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Transition from law enforcement to economic development
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Regional collaboration and trust-building
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Workforce development and digital upskilling
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Leadership lessons and mentorship
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Community impact and innovative programs
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Future trends in economic development and AI
Sound Bites
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“Act with integrity and be the best version of yourself”
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“Our mission is always to build prosperity for communities”
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“Be authentic and true to yourself in community support”