DT #550 Preview of the 2025 IEDC Rural Retreat in Great Falls, Montana
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Release Date: 03/26/2025
DT #573 Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper: Small Steps, Big Impact in Placemaking
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
In this episode, is joined once again by for a lively and insightful conversation around the concept of Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper (LQC) — a placemaking approach that emphasizes small-scale, low-cost, and fast-to-implement strategies for revitalizing public spaces and neighborhood districts. Originally popularized by the nonprofit Project for Public Spaces in the early 2000s, LQC continues to shape how communities reimagine their built environments — even today. We dig into real-world examples, lessons learned, and how communities are using this flexible framework to create a stronger...
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DT #572 Building Professional Skills for Future Success - Mark Perna
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, discusses the evolution of career trees into , emphasizing the importance of teaching professional skills to younger generations. He outlines the structure of the skill tree curriculum, which spans from kindergarten through joining the workforce, and highlights the need for a competitive advantage in today's job market. The conversation also explores community engagement and the implementation of these concepts in educational systems. Takeaways Career trees help close the skills gap by providing clarity on career pathways. Skill trees...
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DT #571 The Unique Economic Development Landscape in Lowell, Massachusetts - Allison Carter
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host welcomes , the Director of Economic Development for . They discuss the city's unique economic landscape, including its history, the Downtown Lowell Vacant Storefront Program, and the innovative Project Pop-Up retail incubator. Allison shares success stories from these initiatives, highlighting the community's vibrant culture, driven by a diverse population and a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. The conversation concludes with a look at future aspirations for Lowell's economic development and the importance of maintaining a...
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DT #570 The Rise of the Fun Economy & AI's Role in Shaping the Future - Jared Smith and Dr. Bo Bernhard
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, host Dennis engages with and to discuss the concept of the fun economy, its impact on economic development, and the role of artificial intelligence in shaping future trends. They explore how the fun economy, which encompasses tourism, sports, and entertainment, is becoming a significant driver of global economic growth, especially with the rise of the middle class. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by economic developers in uncertain times and the importance of leveraging unique regional assets. Finally, they reflect...
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DT #568 Unlocking Funding Potential for EDOs - Brian Abernathy Convergent Non Profit Solutions
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews , General Manager of , discussing the importance of revenue benchmarking for Economic Development Organizations (EDOs). They explore how public-private partnerships have become best practices in funding, the methodology behind revenue benchmarking studies, and the significance of analyzing sector representation in funding sources. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication and long-term strategies in economic development. Takeaways Convergent specializes in fundraising planning and consulting for...
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DT #569 Breathing Life into Rural: Inside the IEDC Rural Retreat (with Main Street America)
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
is joined by , Director of Illinois Main Street, and , Program Officer at , for a lively discussion about the upcoming in Great Falls, Montana. This first-of-its-kind event by the International Economic Development Council is designed specifically for professionals working in rural and tribal communities—and the format is anything but typical. The team dives into what makes this retreat unique, including Spark Talks and immersive, on-the-ground experiences that trade PowerPoints for people-powered stories. Together, we explore: What rural really means (spoiler: it’s not...
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DT #567 The Future of Work: Engaging Gen Z - Mark Perna
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode, Dennis and delve into the complexities of , exploring the misconceptions surrounding their work ethic, engagement, and aspirations. They discuss the impact of technology, particularly AI, on this generation and the challenges leaders face in connecting with young people. The conversation emphasizes the need for relevance and purpose in education and employment, urging a shift in perspective to better engage and empower the youth. Takeaways Gen Z is often misunderstood and labeled as lazy. Each generation has its unique characteristics and challenges. Technology is...
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DT #566 The Power of Collaboration in Economic Development - Tiffany Tauscheck President & CEO of Greater Des Moines Partnership
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews , the president and CEO of the . They discuss the organization's role in economic and community development across 12 counties in Iowa, highlighting the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Tiffany shares insights into the current economic climate, key industries driving growth, and the challenges and opportunities faced by the partnership. The conversation also touches on the significance of engaging rural communities, the power of regional collaboration, and Tiffany's leadership style. Takeaways ...
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DT #565 Building Bridges: Education and Industry - Ron Cole, President of Allegheny College
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Summary In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews , PhD, the President of . They discuss the unique aspects of Allegheny College's liberal arts education, the importance of adapting to workforce needs, and the college's initiatives to engage with the local community and industry. Ron shares insights on the relevance of education in today's economy, the establishment of micro credentials, and the collaborative efforts with local businesses to enhance economic development in Meadville, Pennsylvania. The conversation highlights the significance of community...
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DT #563 Exploring Roswell Georgia: A Hidden Gem & How to Effectively Use the Whova App at Conferences
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
In this episode of the Develop This Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews , the president and CEO of ., about the economic landscape of Roswell, Georgia, and the importance of strategic economic development. Steve shares insights into the city's growth. Steve also explains the role of the in enhancing networking at conferences and offers advice for maximizing conference experiences. The conversation highlights the significance of being present and engaged in both economic development and networking opportunities. Takeaways Roswell is a key economic driver in Fulton County. The city has a...
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In this episode of the Develop This! Podcast, Dennis Fraise interviews Jolene Schalper and Christian Leinhauser from the Great Falls Montana Development Authority 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 Development Authority focuses on diversifying the regional economy.
- The 2025 IDC Rural Retreat aims to address the unique needs of rural communities.
- Immersive experiences will allow attendees to engage with local entrepreneurs.
- The retreat will feature both plenary sessions and community tours.
- Participants will have the opportunity to learn from successful rural initiatives.
- Networking opportunities will be abundant, fostering collaboration among attendees.
- The retreat will include various tracks focusing on different aspects of economic development.
- Great Falls is home to significant agricultural and manufacturing sectors.
- Local attractions include stunning natural landscapes and historical sites.
- The retreat encourages attendees to bring back valuable tools for their communities.