DT #532 The Year Ahead in Economic Development With Bryan Daniels IEDC Board Chair
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Release Date: 01/08/2025
DT #557 Building Bridges: The St. Louis BRE Initiative
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This podcast, Dennis interviews , the Vice President of Business Development for the . They discuss the importance of business retention and expansion (BRE) programs, particularly the innovative regional BRE committee established during the pandemic. Jason shares insights on building trust among economic development partners, the structure of their outreach efforts, and the challenges faced in maintaining collaboration. The conversation highlights the significance of data collection, quantifying success, and practical advice for other organizations...
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DT #558 Unlocking Economic Development: The OUEDI Experience - Courtney Dunbar
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews , the Dean of the They discuss the importance of OUEDI in promoting knowledge in economic development, the program's structure and curriculum, and the unique experiences it offers. Courtney highlights the significance of networking and mentorship in the field, emphasizing that learning from experienced practitioners is invaluable. She also notes the lasting connections that participants form during the program and encourages listeners to consider enrolling in OUEDI for their professional growth. Takeaways OUEDI...
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DT #555 Understanding Agriculture and Egg Prices in America - Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of Develop This, discusses his journey to his current role, the importance of Iowa's agricultural production, and the challenges faced by farmers today. He emphasizes the balance between increasing agricultural output and sustainable land stewardship, the impact of tariffs on agriculture, and the safety nets in place for farmers. Naig also addresses the challenges in the egg production industry, particularly due to , and the consolidation within the industry. He concludes with a call for greater consumer awareness and appreciation for the work of farmers. Takeaways ...
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DT #556 The “Why” Behind Downtown Revitalization Strategies: Building Community from the Ground Up
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
In this episode, sits down with , director of Illinois Main Street, to explore how communities are shaping effective downtown economic development strategies—and more importantly, why these strategies work in their specific context. From humble beginnings rooted in community engagement to long-term sustainability planning, this conversation unpacks the real-world process of revitalizing a downtown district with purpose, people, and partnerships. “You’ve got to bring people alongside—not just for buy-in, but for co-ownership.” 1. Think...
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DT #553 Explosive Growth in Pasco County, Florida: Opportunities and Challenges
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode, Dennis Fraise speaks with , the President and CEO of the , about the explosive growth in Pasco County, Florida. They discuss the opportunities and challenges that come with rapid development, the evolution of the local economy, and the importance of balancing growth with community needs. Bill shares insights on how the county has transformed from a bedroom community to a hub for new industries, the impact of COVID-19 on migration patterns, and the necessity of strategic planning to ensure sustainable growth. The conversation also touches on the importance of...
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DT #554 Navigating the Complexities of Tariffs on the North American Auto Industry - Flavio Volpe
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise speaks with , president of the in Canada. They discuss the historical ties between the Canadian and US automotive industries, the integration of the North American auto supply chain, the current state of tariffs and their impact on the industry, and the future of the Canadian auto parts sector. Flavio emphasizes the importance of collaboration and understanding between the two countries to navigate the complexities of trade and tariffs. Takeaways Flavio Volpe is the president of the APMA, representing Canada's automotive sector. The...
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DT #551 Unlocking the Power of Questions - Mark Perna
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this conversation, Dennis and explore the significance of asking better questions in various contexts, particularly in leadership and personal interactions. They discuss how effective questioning can lead to deeper understanding, stronger relationships, and improved communication. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, curiosity, and the art of engaging conversations, while also addressing the challenges of navigating difficult discussions. Throughout the conversation, they highlight practical strategies for enhancing questioning skills and building...
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DT #552 The National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA)
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Dennis Fraise speaks with , the president of the (NREDA). They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural economic developers, the importance of community relationships, and the benefits of NREDA membership. Lisa shares insights about York County, Nebraska, and the organization's efforts to support economic development across rural America. The conversation also touches on the upcoming and the significance of networking and professional development. Takeaways Rural communities often face unique economic...
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DT #549 Understanding the Impact of Tariffs on the Can Manufacturing Industry
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary This Develop This! episode delves into the complexities of tariffs and their impact on the can manufacturing industry in the United States. Dennis Fraise hosts R, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the , and , President of the , to discuss the historical context of tariffs, the current state of the industry, and the challenges faced by manufacturers. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding how tariffs affect not only businesses but also consumers and the potential for reshoring manufacturing in the U.S. amidst ongoing economic challenges. Takeaways Tariffs...
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DT #550 Preview of the 2025 IEDC Rural Retreat in Great Falls, Montana
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This! Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews and from the about the upcoming 2025 IEDC Rural Retreat. They discuss the unique features of the retreat, which focuses on rural economic development and offers immersive experiences. Attendees will have the chance to engage with local entrepreneurs and communities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing the specific needs of rural areas and outlines various planned activities for the retreat, including tours, networking opportunities, and visits to local attractions. Takeaways The Great Falls...
info_outlineBryan Daniels, the President and CEO of the Blount Partnership – Incoming IEDC Board chair, joins Dennis, and they discuss what is ahead for the economic development profession and IEDC in 2025.
Bryan Daniels was born and raised in Greeneville, Tennessee, which is adjacent to Cherokee National Forest. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications & Computer Science and a Master of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology from East Tennessee State University.
Bryan began his career with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development based in Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Daniels left the State of Tennessee in 1997 and begun work as an Economic Development Planner for the firm of Barge Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon based in Nashville, Tennessee. During this time Bryan worked with several communities within East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. His clients were municipalities trying to develop their local economies and seeking state and federal support for their goals.
From 2001 thru 2010, Bryan accepted the role of Executive Vice President under the Blount Partnership. He was directly responsible for the Economic Development offices and staff located in Maryville, Tennessee; Munich, Germany; and Yokohama, Japan. Bryan managed the operations of the community's four industrial parks, two science/technology parks, and the Economic Development Programs for Blount County, City of Maryville, and City of Alcoa, Tennessee. The Economic Development Board is one of the four partner agencies of the Blount Partnership.
In 2010, Bryan was named President and CEO of the Blount Partnership. The Partnership is comprised of The Blount County Chamber of Commerce, Blount County Economic Development Board, the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority, and the Blount Chamber Foundation. The 24-person staff is responsible for all economic development activities within the jurisdictional boarders of Blount County and the cities of Alcoa, Maryville, Townsend, Rockford, Friendsville, and Louisville.
During Bryan's tenure, Blount County has recruited over 75 new and expanding companies in the areas of research & development, corporate headquarters, manufacturing, and back-office support centers. The total capital investment of these companies has exceeded $4 billion dollars and created more than 12,000 direct new jobs with average wages above Tennessee's average. The Blount County local governments adopted the new tourism authority structure which was written by Bryan and former Senator Doug Overbey. The authority was unanimously adopted by the 107th Tennessee general assembly.
Bryan has continued his professional education by graduating from the Economic Development Institute located at the University of Oklahoma and is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council. Bryan is also a graduate from the US Chamber's Institute of Non-Profit Management and attained the designation of IOM. He has also attained the status of Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives.
The Blount Partnership is a five-star accredited Chamber of Commerce by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is the only Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) by the International Economic Development Council in the state of Tennessee. Bryan is very active in the community and has held the following leadership roles: