DT #687 How Los Angeles Stays a Global Economic Powerhouse
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Release Date: 09/30/2026
DT #701 What Companies Really Look for During Site Visits
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What does it take for a community to make the right impression during a company site visit? In this episode of Develop This!, talks with , a principal at , about what companies and site selection consultants are really looking for when they visit a community. Nicolette explains why preparation starts long before the visit, from validating infrastructure and workforce information to making sure local leaders understand the project and can communicate effectively. The conversation also covers confidentiality, engaging local employers, managing community perceptions, and avoiding mistakes that...
info_outline
DT #702 The Future of Rural America: Turning Challenges Into Opportunities
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What does it take for rural communities to thrive in a changing economy? In this episode of Develop This!, talks with , President of the , about the opportunities and challenges shaping rural America. Scott shares why storytelling, local leadership, and community confidence are essential to rural development. The conversation explores challenges like childcare, housing, and access to capital, along with creative approaches to entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and placemaking. They also discuss attracting and retaining young people, connecting students to career opportunities, and ensuring rural...
info_outline
DT #699 How Economic Developers Can Navigate Opposition, Trust, and Change
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
How can economic developers build trust with their communities while navigating opposition, misinformation, and increasingly complex development projects? In this episode of Develop This!, sits down with to discuss lessons from her 30-year career in economic development and how the profession is evolving. Maureen shares her experiences working with international companies and communities around the world, offering perspective on how global competition, changing expectations, and increased skepticism are shaping economic development today. A major focus of the conversation is community trust....
info_outline
DT #700 What Economic Developers Need to Know About FDI
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What does it take for communities to compete for investment in an increasingly competitive global economy? In this episode of Develop This!, talks with foreign direct investment expert about how communities can attract and benefit from FDI. Andreas explains why not all foreign investment is equally beneficial and why communities need to understand what they actually want to attract. The conversation explores corporate site selection, investment drivers, and the growing importance of soft factors such as community support, certainty, and quality of life. The discussion also highlights why...
info_outline
DT #697 Ukraine's Economic Future: Investment, Resilience, and Opportunity
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What does Ukraine's economy look like in the middle of war, and where are the opportunities for future growth and investment? In this episode of Develop This!, sits down with to explore the current economic landscape of Ukraine and Moldova and what economic development professionals and investors should understand about the region. Bruce shares his extensive experience working across post-Soviet countries and provides insight into the regional differences within Ukraine, the resilience of its people, and the ways communities and businesses are continuing to adapt despite the ongoing war. The...
info_outline
DT #698 Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition: Turning Small Businesses Into Opportunities
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
What if the best way to become an entrepreneur was to buy an existing business instead of starting one from scratch? In this episode of Develop This!, talks with of about entrepreneurship through acquisition and how aspiring entrepreneurs can find, purchase, and grow established businesses. Royce explains why buying a profitable business can offer a different path to ownership, the importance of due diligence, and the challenges new owners face during their first 90 days. The conversation also explores company culture, long-term holding companies, franchises, and the emotional realities of...
info_outline
DT #696 Community Quest: A Big Idea Becomes a Community Adventure
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
How do you make economic development exciting and understandable for the next generation? In this special episode of Develop This!, talks with and about Community Quest, a graphic novel designed to make economic development more accessible and engaging for young people and adults alike. They share the inspiration behind the book, how complex concepts are transformed into an adventure story, and how illustrations help bring community development to life. The conversation also covers how the graphic novel can be used in classrooms and community outreach, the development of a facilitator’s...
info_outline
DT #694 The Data Center Debate: Opportunity, Opposition, and Community Impact
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
Why does everyone hate data centers? In this episode of Develop This!, talks with of to explore the growing debate surrounding data centers and what they mean for communities. The conversation examines why public opinion around data centers has shifted, from excitement over investment and economic growth to concerns about power, water, noise, land use, and long-term community impact. Chris and Dennis discuss the economic benefits data centers can bring, including tax revenue, infrastructure investment, and new opportunities for communities. They also take a closer look at the trade-offs and...
info_outline
DT #695 How Storytelling and Career Exploration Can Transform Communities
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
How can economic development professionals better connect with their communities and create a shared vision for regional success? In this episode of Develop This!, sits down with M to discuss the importance of understanding the “why” behind economic development and creating stronger connections between communities, education, employers, and young people. Mark explains why younger generations want purpose and relevance, and how economic developers can help students understand the opportunities available to them long before they enter the workforce. The conversation explores early career...
info_outline
DT #692 Beyond the Hype: Understanding AI With Dan Chuparkoff
Develop This: Economic and Community Development
How will artificial intelligence change the way we work, lead, and build communities? In this episode of Develop This!, sits down with , AI keynote speaker and technology leader with more than 30 years of experience at Google and McKinsey, to explore the opportunities and challenges AI presents. Dan breaks down common misconceptions about AI, including why AI can sound confident while still being wrong. He explains how professionals can use AI as an assistant, coach, and productivity tool while keeping humans responsible for critical decisions. The conversation also explores how economic...
info_outlineWhat does it take to lead one of the world's most dynamic regional economies?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Stephen Cheung, CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), to discuss his unconventional journey from social work to leading one of the nation's largest economic development organizations.
Stephen shares how his diverse career shaped his leadership style and explains why listening, collaboration, and long-term thinking are essential to building resilient communities. He also discusses how Los Angeles has leveraged its diversity, innovation, and global connections to remain one of the world's leading economic hubs.
The conversation explores LA's competitive advantages, including its strength in international trade, aerospace, entertainment, life sciences, and emerging industries. Stephen also highlights the importance of infrastructure, foreign direct investment, and regional partnerships in supporting long-term economic growth.
Another major focus is resilience. From natural disasters to economic disruptions, Stephen explains how communities can prepare for uncertainty while continuing to attract investment and create opportunities. He also shares how Los Angeles is preparing for the 2028 Olympic Games and other global events that will shape the region's future.
Throughout the episode, Stephen reflects on the importance of relationship-building, global collaboration, and embracing new technologies like AI to stay competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
A key takeaway? Strong regional economies are built through collaboration, resilience, and leaders who can unite diverse stakeholders around a shared vision.
Key Takeaways
-
Diverse industry clusters strengthen long-term economic resilience
-
International trade and global partnerships remain critical to regional growth
-
Infrastructure and collaboration drive sustainable economic development
-
Preparing for major global events creates lasting economic opportunities
-
AI and emerging technologies are reshaping economic development strategies
-
Effective leadership begins with listening and building strong relationships
Key Topics Covered
-
Stephen Cheung's journey into economic development
-
Los Angeles' diverse economy and industry clusters
-
International trade and foreign direct investment
-
Regional resilience and disaster recovery
-
Preparing for the 2028 Olympic Games
-
Leadership, collaboration, and future economic trends
Sound Bites
-
“Stephen Cheung's career path was not linear.”
-
“LA hosts multiple major sporting events and teams.”
-
“AI is a key trend for economic developers.”