Libsyn Directory

DT #534 Behind the scenes of state level economic Development - Debi Durham, the Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA).

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Release Date: 01/22/2025

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...

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...

DT #547 Leadership Lessons from a Lifetime in Economic Development - Michael Langley

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host interviews , a distinguished figure in economic development and recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award from the . The conversation explores Michael's journey from military service as a naval aviator to a successful career in corporate America and, ultimately, to his impactful role in economic development. Michael shares valuable insights on leadership, the importance of community engagement, and the evolving landscape of economic development, particularly in light of technological advancements and current political...

DT #548 The Impact of increased U.S. Tariffs on International Trade and the U.S. economy - David Gantz

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Summary In this episode of Develop This Podcast, interviews , a trade law expert, to discuss the current state of tariffs and international trade. They explore the chaotic nature of recent tariff threats and implementations, the historical context of trade agreements like and , and the implications of new tariffs on trade relationships with Canada, Mexico, and China. The conversation delves into the impact on consumers, manufacturing, and the long-term effects on US relations with Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as the greatly diminished role of the in global trade. Takeaways The...

DT #545 Empowering Rural America: The Golden Shovel Approach

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise speaks with , president of , about the importance of economic development in rural America. They discuss the agency's mission, the launch of the Rural America campaign, and key findings from a recent white paper on marketing strategies for rural communities. Bethany emphasizes the need for effective marketing strategies, social media's role, and storytelling's importance in economic development. They also touch on the significance of adequate funding and introduce the new website product designed for rural communities. ...

DT #546 Recap and Review of the 2025 IEDC Leadership Summit

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Dennis Fraise is joined by contributing correspondents , , and to discuss their experiences at the recent held in Washington, DC. They reflect on the conference's location, programming, and the importance of networking and collaboration among economic developers. The group shares insights on various sessions, including data utilization, personal branding, and the impact of plenary speakers. They conclude with thoughts on the overall experience and future conferences. Takeaways The conference location in DC allowed for advocacy...

DT #544 The Tariff Debate: Understanding Its Impact - Ryan Monarch Assistant Professor, Economics Department Syracuse University

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Assistant Professor, Economics Department , an expert in international trade and economics, to discuss the complexities of tariffs and their implications on the economy. The conversation covers the definition of tariffs, their historical context, their role in modern trade, and the economic and consumer impacts. Ryan explains how tariffs can affect supply chains, consumer choices, and the overall market dynamics while also addressing the political motivations behind tariff implementation. The discussion highlights the...

DT #542 Building Your Dreams: A Lifelong Journey - Mark Perna

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise and discuss the importance of building one's dreams at any stage of life. They explore the distinction between interest and passion, emphasizing that while interest can be easily found, passion is cultivated over time through resilience and commitment. The conversation also highlights the significance of engagement and self-motivation in creating a competitive advantage in both personal and professional realms. Mark shares his philosophy of embracing discomfort and daring to dream, encouraging listeners to take actionable steps toward their...

DT #543 Leadership Simplified: Enhancing Economic Development Organizations - Doug Van Dyke

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

In this episode of Develop This, Dennis Fraise speaks with , CEO of , about the intricacies of economic development organizations (EDCs). They discuss the role of EDCs, the pros and cons of regionalization, the challenges of collaboration, and the relationship between EDCs and chambers of commerce. Doug shares insights on strategic planning, executive coaching, and the importance of having a neutral party in discussions about regionalism. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration and the potential benefits of working together to enhance economic development efforts. Takeaways ...

DT #540 These Free Programs are Changing How Cities Learn | Apply Now!

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

In this episode of the Develop This podcast, Dennis Fraise and explore strategies for ensuring that economic development reaches every corner of a community. They discuss the various programs offered by the , including the , which is an all-expense paid professional development experience for economic and community leaders from smaller cities (up to 500,000) to learn from other small and midsized cities that are paving the way through collaboration and innovation. Applications for LEAP are open now and close March 10, 2025. Apply now at ! They also talk about , which...

Debi Durham, the Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) joins Dennis to discuss the role of a state economic development director.

Fifteen years ago, what was the state of economic development?
Fast forward 15 years, and how has economic development changed?
Through two main divisions – business development and community development the IEDA administers almost 50 state and federal programs to assist individuals, communities, and businesses. That is a lot of plates to spin at one time. How big is the IEDA team?
As a state, does Iowa target specific sectors for projects?
Every state has advantages and disadvantages. How do you work to sell the sizzle for Iowa?
How competitive are projects between the states?
At the local level, we are used to projects from the state, utility, or rail partners. How do projects flow to the IEDA?
Let's talk about the changes in the economic development landscape for projects, starting with the rise of certified sites.
Incentives are always a controversial topic. How have incentives changed during your tenure, and what are your views on incentives?
What advice for frontline economic development professionals do you have when competing for projects or existing industry expansions?
What do you wish every economic development professional knew about when responding to RFIs?
Debi, look into your crystal ball. What do you think economic development will look like in 10 years?

Debi Durham

Debi Durham is a longtime economic and community development professional who serves as Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA). Durham was named to the positions by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds in January 2019. Durham was first appointed to lead IEDA in 2011, and during her eight-year tenure, has turned the agency into a successful public-private partnership, landed billion-dollar economic development projects for Iowa and worked tirelessly on expanding trade and investment opportunities for the state. She prides herself on building coalitions, supporting new ventures and strengthening the state's industries and communities.

Prior to joining IEDA, Durham served as president of the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce. Her several accolades include being recognized as one of the "Most Influential Business Leaders" in the 2019 Des Moines Business Record Book of Lists and receiving the Technology Association of Iowa's "Legislative Advocacy Leader" award in 2017. Durham also was recognized by the Business Record as a "Woman of Influence" in 2016. Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Marketing and Management from Missouri Southern State University.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority's (IEDA) mission is to strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses.

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