Episodes
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What makes some communities stand out while others struggle to tell their story?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Sandy Dubay, CEO of PPR Strategies, about the growing importance of communication, branding, and storytelling in economic development.
Drawing on her experience in both economic development and public relations, Sandy explains why authentic storytelling has become one of the most powerful tools communities can use to attract investment, build trust, and create lasting connections.
The conversation explores common communication mistakes organizations make, the importance of maintaining consistent messaging, and how communities can develop brands that reflect who they truly are rather than who they want to be.
A major focus is the challenge of communicating across generations. Sandy shares practical insights on adapting messages to different audiences, leveraging social media effectively, and meeting people where they are without losing authenticity.
The discussion also covers crisis communication, media relations, and the leadership skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex communication environment.
A key takeaway? Strong communities are built on strong storiesâand the most effective stories are authentic, consistent, and centered on people.
Key Takeaways
Authentic storytelling strengthens community identity and growth
Consistent messaging is essential for effective branding
Communities should focus on stories that genuinely resonate with audiences
Communication strategies must adapt to different generations
Strong media relationships help amplify community success stories
Crisis communication requires preparation, transparency, and trust
Key Topics Covered
Evolution of economic development and community branding
Authentic storytelling and community messaging
Media relations and communication strategy
Generational communication differences
Social media and audience engagement
Leadership and crisis communication
Sound Bites
"Tell the stories that truly resonate."
"Consistency is critical in branding."
"Meet your audience where they are."
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What does it take to transform a community while ensuring everyone benefits from the growth?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Clyde Higgs, President & CEO of Atlanta Beltline, Inc, about one of the most ambitious community redevelopment projects in the United States.
Clyde shares his unique journey from healthcare leadership into economic development and explains how large-scale infrastructure projects can serve as catalysts for economic growth, community revitalization, and long-term opportunity.
A major focus of the conversation is community-led development. Rather than imposing change from the top down, the Atlanta BeltLine has prioritized public engagement, trust-building, and ensuring that residents have a voice in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
The discussion also explores the challenges of balancing growth with equity, particularly when it comes to housing affordability and ensuring redevelopment benefits both existing and future residents.
Throughout the episode, Clyde highlights the importance of mentorship, relationship-building, and lifelong learning as essential leadership skills for economic developers navigating increasingly complex challenges.
A key takeaway? Successful redevelopment is not just about infrastructureâit's about creating opportunities, building trust, and putting people at the center of growth.
Key Takeaways
Community engagement is essential to successful redevelopment projects
Infrastructure investments can be powerful catalysts for economic growth
Equitable housing must be part of long-term development strategies
Public trust is critical in community transformation efforts
Mentorship and relationship-building are key leadership skills
Economic development is ultimately about improving opportunities for people
Key Topics Covered
Community-led redevelopment strategies
Economic impact of infrastructure investments
Equitable housing and neighborhood revitalization
Leadership and mentorship in economic development
Public trust and community engagement
The future of economic development
Sound Bites
"Everyone knows something you don't know."
"You're not as smart as you think you are."
"People are the greatest source of optimism."
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Missing episodes?
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What role do public-private partnerships play in the future of economic development?
In this panel episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise explores the evolving PPP landscape with Joachim Arnold, Matt Chambers, and Clint Nessmith, bringing together perspectives from the U.S. and Europe.
The conversation dives into how economic development organizations are rethinking funding models, private sector engagement, and long-term sustainability in a changing global environment.
A major focus is funding diversification. The panel discusses why stable, flexible funding mattersâand how structured campaigns can help formalize private sector participation in economic growth strategies.
The discussion also explores global FDI trends, infrastructure investment, geopolitical uncertainty, and the importance of adapting economic development models to local and international realities.
A key takeaway? Strong public-private partnerships create the structure, trust, and shared investment needed to drive sustainable economic growth.
Key Takeaways
Public-private partnerships are evolving across global markets
Funding diversification is critical for long-term sustainability
Private sector engagement strengthens economic development strategy
Geopolitical uncertainty is reshaping investment decisions
Community engagement can open new doors for growth
Structured campaigns help formalize stakeholder participation
Key Topics Covered
Public-private partnership models
Funding diversification in economic development
Global trends in FDI and infrastructure investment
U.S. and European economic development strategies
Stakeholder and private sector engagement
Adapting to geopolitical uncertainty
Sound Bites
"Funding stability is a key strength of the US model."
"Community engagement opens doors for economic growth."
"Structured campaigns formalize private sector engagement."
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What if the next wave of economic growth starts with local entrepreneurs?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Rob Williams of SourceLink to explore how entrepreneurship-led economic development can help communities build stronger, more resilient economies.
Rob shares how communitiesâespecially rural onesâcan leverage their unique assets to support entrepreneurs, strengthen local ecosystems, and create long-term growth from within.
The conversation highlights SourceLink's ecosystem approach, focusing on how connecting entrepreneurs to the right resources, partners, and support networks can reduce fragmentation and accelerate success.
A major theme is measurement. Rob discusses why communities need better ways to track entrepreneurial activity, job creation, and ecosystem health beyond traditional economic development metrics.
The discussion also explores the growing role of AI, broadband, and technology in unlocking innovation at scale and expanding access for entrepreneurs in both rural and urban markets.
A key takeaway? Strong entrepreneurial ecosystems are built through connection, collaboration, and a clear understanding of what local businesses need to grow.
Key Takeaways
Entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of local economic growth
Young firms play a major role in job creation
Rural communities can build innovation around their unique assets
Strong ecosystems require clear connections between resources and entrepreneurs
AI and broadband are expanding access to innovation
Success should be measured through ecosystem health, not just traditional metrics
Key Topics Covered
Entrepreneurship-led economic development
Rural innovation and community assets
SourceLink's ecosystem-building approach
Metrics for entrepreneurial success
AI and technology in entrepreneurship
Economic development education and the role of IEDC
Sound Bites
"Job creation starts with young firms."
"AI is unlocking innovation at scale."
"Connect, collaborate, and innovate."
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What does it take for rural communities to compete and grow in today's economy?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Jolene Schalper, EVP of the Great Falls Montana Development Alliance, to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping rural economic development.
Jolene shares her journey from nonprofit leadership into economic development and explains how collaboration, creativity, and community trust play critical roles in driving regional growth.
The conversation highlights how Great Falls is leveraging local strengths to support entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create long-term economic momentum. Workforce and housing challenges are also a major focus, with Jolene emphasizing the importance of data-driven strategies and proactive planning to support sustainable growth.
The discussion also explores how rural communities can position themselves competitively for larger opportunities, including foreign direct investment, while still maintaining strong local identity and community connections.
A key takeaway? Rural communities have unique advantagesâand with the right leadership, partnerships, and vision, they can compete far beyond their size.
Key Takeaways
Rural communities can compete by leveraging local strengths and partnerships
Collaboration and trust-building are essential for long-term growth
Entrepreneurship plays a major role in rural economic resilience
Housing and workforce challenges require proactive, data-driven solutions
Creativity and adaptability are critical in economic development leadership
Rural regions can successfully attract major investment opportunities
Key Topics Covered
Rural economic development strategies
Community collaboration and leadership
Entrepreneurship and small business support
Workforce and housing challenges
Foreign direct investment opportunities
Professional development in economic development
Sound Bites
"Data drives decisions in our housing strategy."
"We swing for the fences to grow our community."
"Second place sucksâno ribbon for losing."
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What happens when rapid tech growth collides with a city's cultural identity?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Jon Roberts and Tracy McDaniel of TIP Strategies to explore the evolution of Austin's tech boomâand the social and economic trade-offs that come with it.
Once known for its distinct culture and creative energy, Austin has become one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the U.S. But as investment and innovation accelerate, the conversation turns to a harder question: what gets lost in the process?
The discussion unpacks the growing tensions between economic expansion and community impact, including rising disparities, housing pressures, and the challenge of maintaining Austin's identity amid large-scale development.
A key theme is the need to rethink how success is measured in economic developmentâmoving beyond pure growth metrics to include equity, inclusion, and long-term community health.
The conversation also touches on emerging forces like AI and data infrastructure, and how they may further reshape the city's trajectory in the years ahead.
A central takeaway? Growth without inclusion risks reshaping not just economiesâbut the communities they're meant to serve.
Key Takeaways
Austin's tech growth is reshaping its cultural and economic identity
Rapid development has created increasing social and economic disparities
Inclusive growth requires intentional community engagement strategies
Traditional economic metrics may overlook equity and livability
AI and data infrastructure will continue to influence urban development
Balancing innovation with identity is a growing challenge for cities
Key Topics Covered
Evolution of Austin's tech ecosystem
Cultural identity and urban transformation
Social and economic impacts of rapid growth
Inclusive economic development strategies
Gentrification and community displacement
AI, data centers, and future urban trends
Sound Bites
"Are we losing Austin's identity?"
"AI will run out of things to mine."
"Austin will always be magnetic."
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What 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 developmentâand 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 peopleâbuilding trust, investing in talent, and leading with authenticity.
Key Takeaways
Regional collaboration is built on trust and long-term relationships
Workforce development and digital skills are critical for future growth
Authentic leadership strengthens community impact
Mentorship and lifelong learning are essential in economic development
Public-private partnerships drive stronger regional outcomes
Community prosperity requires intentional collaboration and service
Key Topics Covered
Transition from law enforcement to economic development
Regional collaboration and trust-building
Workforce development and digital upskilling
Leadership lessons and mentorship
Community impact and innovative programs
Future trends in economic development and AI
Sound Bites
"Act with integrity and be the best version of yourself"
"Our mission is always to build prosperity for communities"
"Be authentic and true to yourself in community support"
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What does it take to rebuild an economy after a disasterâand turn it into a model for long-term growth?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Michael Hecht, CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., 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 foundationâbalancing 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, and that successful rebuilding requires both structure and local autonomy to respond effectively to evolving needs.
The conversation also highlights how New Orleans has leveraged innovation, incentives, and workforce development to reposition itself for future growthâparticularly in emerging sectors like tech and innovation.
A key takeaway? Economic recovery is not just about rebuilding what was lostâit's about designing something stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient.
Key Takeaways
Post-disaster recovery requires both structure and local autonomy
Community involvement is essential in rebuilding efforts
Incentives must balance short-term recovery with long-term value
Workforce development is critical to economic resilience
Innovation is playing a growing role in New Orleans' economic shift
Strong leadership is key to navigating complex recovery environments
Key Topics Covered
Post-disaster economic recovery strategies
Lessons from Hurricane Katrina and 9/11 recovery efforts
Community involvement in economic planning
Workforce development and skills alignment
Incentive design for sustainable growth
Leadership approaches in crisis and recovery
Sound Bites
"You can't plan top down post disaster."
"Create structure but give autonomy."
"Stay proactive and avoid complacency."
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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, Erik Reader brings Marci Goodwin, co-founder of SmartStart 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 opportunities, and represent a growing part of the future workforce.
The conversation reframes Small Business Week as "Smaller Business Week", a celebration of the people who are creating their own opportunities, testing ideas, building income streams, and thinking entrepreneurially, whether or not they ever plan to open a storefront or hire a team.
This episode also challenges economic developers, Main Street leaders, chambers, and community partners to think differently about business support. As work continues to change, communities may need to better recognize that entrepreneurship is not only about business ownership, it is also about skills, adaptability, creativity, and economic self-determination.
Small Business Week is a time to celebrate local businesses, but this episode widens the lens to include the smallest businesses in our communities, the ones that may not always be visible, but are increasingly important to local economies and the future of work.
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What role do big, bold visions play in shaping stronger communities and more effective leaders?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Mark Perna 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 practical strategies and compelling visions for the future. They also highlight how storytelling helps leaders connect emotionally with people and build trust around bold ideas.
A major theme throughout the episode is courageâthe willingness to make decisive moves, embrace uncertainty, and think beyond short-term challenges in pursuit of meaningful progress.
A key takeaway? People are drawn to hope, purpose, and leaders who are willing to think bigger than the moment in front of them.
Key Takeaways
Optimism and vision are essential drivers of community growth
Shared rallying points can unite and energize communities
Storytelling strengthens leadership and public engagement
Effective leaders balance realism with aspiration
Courage and decisiveness are critical in driving change
Long-term thinking is necessary for lasting impact
Key Topics Covered
Vision and optimism in leadership
Apollo and transformational thinking
Community engagement through storytelling
Leadership habits that fuel innovation
Balancing aspiration with practical action
Purpose-driven leadership for future generations
Sound Bites
"People want hope more than anything"
"What's in it for me?"
"Fear of loss drives big, audacious goals"
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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!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Pilar Madrigal of the Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency 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 destinationâit's becoming a knowledge-driven economy focused on long-term value creation.
Pilar explains how the country has successfully diversified beyond tourism into industries such as life sciences, digital health, medical technology, AI, and advanced manufacturing. This transformation is powered by a strong emphasis on talent development and education, which she describes as the foundation of Costa Rica's competitiveness.
A key theme throughout the conversation is that investment decisions are shifting. Companies are no longer just prioritizing cost or proximityâthey are evaluating talent availability, risk mitigation, ecosystem stability, and total operating value.
The discussion also highlights the importance of trust and strategic advisory relationships in attracting and retaining global investors, as well as Costa Rica's intentional focus on building long-term partnerships rather than transactional wins.
A central takeaway? Costa Rica's competitive edge lies not in scale, but in stability, talent, and a deliberate strategy to move up the value chain.
Key Takeaways
Costa Rica serves as a strategic bridge between North and South America
The economy is shifting from tourism to high-value knowledge industries
Talent development is the core driver of long-term competitiveness
Nearshoring now prioritizes resilience and value over proximity alone
Trust and long-term partnerships are key to investor attraction
Stability and ecosystem maturity offset size limitations
Investment decisions increasingly focus on total operating value
Key Topics Covered
Costa Rica's geographic and strategic advantages
Economic diversification into high-tech and life sciences
Workforce development and talent pipeline strategies
Challenges of scale and cost competitiveness
Role of investment promotion and advisory strategy
Nearshoring and global investment trends
Trust-building with international investors
Sound Bites
"The main hurdle is the size of the talent pool."
"The future of FDI is about transformation."
"A common mistake is competing only on cost."
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How did Lithuania transform itself into one of Europe's fastest-rising investment and innovation hubs?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with RĆ«ta KriĆĄÄiĆ«naitÄ from Invest Lithuania 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 conversation is workforce development. Lithuania's emphasis on upskilling, talent attraction, and strong collaboration between government, education, and industry has helped fuel growth across emerging sectors.
The discussion also dives into Lithuania's rise as a FinTech powerhouse, supported by forward-thinking regulation and licensing frameworks that helped the country become one of the EU's leading FinTech ecosystems.
Energy independence and renewable energy investments are also reshaping the country's long-term strategy, while defense manufacturing and innovation are emerging as major priorities in response to shifting geopolitical realities.
A key takeaway? Lithuania's success comes from its willingness to evolve, test new industries, and invest strategically in future growth sectors.
Key Takeaways
Lithuania has become a major hub for FinTech, business services, and innovation
Workforce upskilling and talent attraction are central to growth strategy
Strategic regulation helped accelerate FinTech development
Renewable energy and energy independence are key priorities
Defense is becoming an increasingly important strategic industry
Long-term growth depends on continuously testing and developing new sectors
Key Topics Covered
Lithuania's geographic and infrastructure advantages
The role of Invest Lithuania in economic development
Workforce development and talent strategies
FinTech growth and regulatory innovation
Renewable energy and energy independence
Defense industry investments and future sectors
Sound Bites
"Defense is the new strategic industry for Lithuania."
"Lithuania signed a deal to purchase 44 Leopard tanks."
"Testing new industries is crucial for future growth."
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What does it take to build economies that are truly inclusiveâand built for long-term impact?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Philip Gaskin to explore his diverse career spanning the private sector, entrepreneurship, and community developmentâand 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 barriers that limit access to capital and opportunity in underserved communities.
A key focus is the role of economic developers as connectorsâbridging policy, private sector insight, and community needs to build stronger, more resilient local economies.
The discussion also touches on Kansas City's evolving economic landscape and how regional ecosystems can serve as powerful models for inclusive growth and entrepreneurial support.
Key Takeaways
Private sector experience can strengthen economic development strategy
Inclusive growth requires addressing access to capital and opportunity gaps
Economic developers play a key role in policy and collaboration
Strong ecosystems drive innovation and community transformation
Kansas City offers a model for regional economic growth
Continuous transformation is essential for long-term impact
Key Topics Covered
Private sector lessons for economic development
Community and economic transformation
Inclusive entrepreneurship and access to capital
Role of economic developers in policy and collaboration
Kansas City's ecosystem and growth model
Sound Bites
"Crazy times call for crazy organizations"
"Communities need to embrace their potential"
"Continual work on transforming communities"
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What are the new rules shaping where major industrial projects choose to land?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Courtney Dunbar, Director of Site Selection at Burns & McDonnell, 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 infrastructureâespecially power. As industries like battery manufacturing and advanced manufacturing expand, access to reliable, scalable energy has become a critical deal-maker (or deal-breaker).
The discussion also explores the evolution of "site readiness," highlighting why master planning and strategic preparation of industrial sites delivers high returns for communities competing for investment.
Courtney emphasizes that success in site selection today comes down to one thing: building a strong, defensible business case that aligns with industry needs, infrastructure realities, and long-term growth potential.
Key Takeaways
Site selection is increasingly shaped by technology, geopolitics, and infrastructure
Power availability is a critical driver of industrial investment decisions
Battery manufacturing is growing beyond EV applications
Master-planned, shovel-ready sites offer a strong competitive advantage
Communities must understand and clearly communicate site limitations
Strong business cases are essential to winning projects
Key Topics Covered
Technological change in site selection
Geopolitical impacts on location decisions
Energy infrastructure and industrial demand
Battery manufacturing trends
Site readiness and community strategy
Sound Bites
"Battery manufacturing is growing, but not primarily for EVs."
"Master planning sites is a high ROI investment."
"Success depends on building a strong business case."
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What makes a country stand out in the global race for investment?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Fadi Shadeh of the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency 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 transformation, particularly its shift toward higher-value industries like electromobility, battery manufacturing, business services, and R&D. While manufacturing remains a strong base, the country is rapidly expanding its role in advanced services and innovation-driven sectors.
A major focus is workforce development. With a strong university network and a dual education system that connects students directly with industry, Hungary is building a talent pipeline designed to meet modern business needsâoften producing job-ready graduates aligned with employer demand.
Fadi also breaks down how the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency operates as a "one-stop shop" for investorsâhelping companies navigate location decisions, incentives, site visits, and long-term expansion strategies.
Key Takeaways
Hungary's central location provides strong access to European and global markets
The economy is shifting toward electromobility, batteries, and business services
Talent development is supported through a strong university system and dual education model
The Investment Promotion Agency acts as a one-stop shop for investors
Regional cities are becoming key drivers of future growth
Investment success depends on talent, infrastructure, and long-term trust
Key Topics Covered
Hungary's geographic and strategic advantages
Economic transformation and industry mix
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What does it take for a legacy industrial city to reinvent itself into a modern growth hub?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Trevor Sutton to explore Birmingham's ongoing economic transformation and the strategies shaping its future.
From major wins like the Fannie Mae project to the continued rise of life sciences and metals industries, Birmingham is positioning itself as a diversified and competitive regional economy. Trevor breaks down how strategic investment, infrastructure, and workforce alignment are driving that shift.
A major focus of the conversation is workforce developmentâspecifically how the region is working to align education, training, and industry needs to retain talent and support long-term growth.
The discussion also highlights a broader truth in economic development: strong economies don't exist in isolation. Regional collaboration, quality of life, and coordinated planning are all essential to attracting and keeping major employers.
A key takeaway? Birmingham's growth story is less about reinvention and more about intentional alignment across industry, talent, and region.
Key Takeaways
Birmingham is evolving into a diversified, modern regional economy
Major projects like Fannie Mae are reshaping regional momentum
Workforce development is central to talent retention and growth
Regional collaboration is critical to long-term competitiveness
Industry diversity and quality of life must be balanced strategically
Key Topics Covered
Birmingham's economic transformation
The Fannie Mae project and regional impact
Workforce development and talent retention
Industry diversification and quality of life
Regional collaboration and infrastructure
Sound Bites
"Strong economies are regional economies"
"Coffee shops and breweries are overhyped"
"Birmingham is a true life sciences hub"
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How much does what you wear actually shape how you're perceivedâand how you perform?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise is joined by Dan Trepanier, founder of Articles of Style, 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 how to adapt your style across different professional environments is still a critical skill.
A core takeaway? Your wardrobe is a form of communicationâand when done right, it sends the message you actually want the world to receive.
Key Takeaways
Fit and quality matter more than trends in wardrobe building
Custom clothing can significantly improve confidence and presentation
Personal style influences perception and professional success
Casual fashion has changed expectationsâbut not the need for intention
A cohesive wardrobe starts with clarity and purpose
Key Topics Covered
Dan Trepanier's journey from farm to fashion expert
Building a wardrobe from scratch
The value of custom clothing and fit
Dressing well and its impact on confidence
Adapting style to professional environments
Sound Bites
"Creating my own personal brand early on"
"Your wardrobe should send the right message"
"Start with custom clothing for the best fit"
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How is economic development evolving in a world shaped by rapid technological change?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Alejandra Y. Castillo to explore how regional strategies, emerging technologies, and workforce development are redefining the field.
From AI to quantum computing, Alejandra breaks down how innovation is influencing where and how communities grow. She emphasizes the importance of infrastructure, regional collaboration, and staying grounded in a global context that continues to shape local decisions.
Workforce development is a central theme, with a focus on building skills across all levelsâfrom technical expertise to entrepreneurship and AI literacy.
A key message? Communities that align technology, talent, and strategy will be best positioned for long-term success.
Key Takeaways
Global context is shaping local economic decisions
Emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing are driving change
Regional strategies and infrastructure are critical
Workforce development must span all skill levels
Innovation and talent alignment are key to competitiveness
Key Topics Covered
Evolution of economic development practices
Impact of emerging technologies
Regional strategies and infrastructure
Workforce development and future skills
Global and national considerations
Sound Bites
"Global context impacts our decisions today"
"We need skills across the spectrum"
"AI literacy and entrepreneurship are key"
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What's really driving global location decisions today?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Johan Beukema of BCI Global to unpack the shifting landscape of site selection and investment strategy.
From AI and data centers to supply chain resilience, Johan explains how companies are rethinking where they investâand why. As decentralization accelerates, talent and strong ecosystems are becoming just as important as cost.
The conversation also highlights a key shift: "soft factors" like workforce quality, innovation networks, and livability are now critical differentiators in competitive markets.
A core takeaway? Communities need to clearly define their strengths and align with the right opportunities to stay competitive.
Key Takeaways
Lower-cost locations are gaining ground
Talent and ecosystems now rival cost in decision-making
AI and data centers are reshaping site selection
Supply chain resilience remains a top priority
Clear positioning is critical for competitiveness
Key Topics Covered
Global location strategy shifts
AI and data centers in site selection
Decentralization and regional trends
Talent and ecosystem importance
Supply chain resilience
Sound Bites
"Lower cost locations have climbed up the ladder."
"Focus on soft factors, not just real estate."
"Define project profiles to benchmark your location."
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What separates good economic development organizations from great ones? According to Barry Broome, it comes down to leadership, data, and the courage to adapt.
In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Barry Broome, President and CEO of the Greater Sacramento Economic Council and recipient of the 2025 Chairwoman's Award from the International Economic Development Council.
Barry shares hard-earned insights from decades in the field, offering a candid look at the evolving economic development landscape. From the acceleration of reshoring and the rise of secondary markets to the growing influence of AI and automation, this conversation dives deep into the forces shaping regional economies today.
A major theme? Communities must be preparedâor risk being left behind. Barry emphasizes that credible data, reliable power infrastructure, and workforce readiness are no longer optionalâthey are prerequisites for competing in today's investment environment. As demand for data centers and AI-driven industries surges, the conversation highlights a critical reality: power availability may be the single biggest constraint on growth.
The discussion also explores a shift toward smaller, more strategic projects and why chasing megadeals without fundamentals in place can backfire. Barry offers practical, real-world advice for economic developers looking to position their communities for long-term success.
Whether you're working in a large metro or a second-tier market, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you lead with clarity, compete effectively, and build a more resilient regional economy.
Key Topics
Leadership traits of high-performing economic development organizations The impact of AI and automation on jobs and regional competitiveness Strategies for attracting, retaining, and growing investment The critical role of power infrastructure in data centers and AI projects Workforce challenges and opportunities in a shifting economy Lessons learned from a distinguished career in economic developmentSound Bites
"Moving away from meritocracy to comfort levels." "Not having good data is a red flag for communities." "Power availability is critical for data centers." - Show more
