Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Latest Episodes:

DT #603 Mentors, Milestones & Momentum: How Marsellas Williams Built His ED Career Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

Episode Overview

In this inspiring episode of the Develop This! Podcast, host Dennis Fraise reconnects with newly certified economic developer Marsellas Williams for a candid and energetic conversation about what it truly takes to grow in the economic development profession.

Marsellas reflects on his personal journey—from entering the field in 2018 to overcoming the rigorous path toward earning his CEcD certification. He highlights the powerful role of mentorship, the importance of leaning into professional values and faith, and the real-life challenges that come with stepping into the world of community and economic development.

Listeners will hear firsthand how Marsellas has become a catalyst for business retention and expansion in Powder Springs, Georgia, where his work is fueling job creation and community vitality. He shares lessons learned, practical career advice, and the strategies that helped him thrive—both in the field and in life.

Whether you're new to the profession or a seasoned practitioner, this episode delivers the guidance, encouragement, and insights you need to continue growing and leading in your community.

Key Takeaways

Marsellas launched his economic development career in 2018, fueled by curiosity and a desire to serve communities.
Mentorship has been central to his development and success.
The road to CEcD certification is challenging—but deeply rewarding.
Faith and personal values shape Marcellus's leadership style and decision-making.
Strong business retention efforts remain one of the most effective paths to community job creation.
Powder Springs, GA is experiencing dynamic growth driven by strategy and collaboration.
Networking is essential for building credibility and opening doors in the profession.
Relationships—not just projects—define long-term success in economic development.
Preparing for certification requires discipline, planning, and intentional study.
Looking ahead, Marsellas envisions leading a larger organization or leveraging his talents in the private sector.

DT #601 Inside the Site Selectors Guild Partner Program: Jay Garner on Building Powerful EDO–Consultant Connections Nov 26, 2025

Show notes

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Develop This! Podcast, host Dennis Fraise sits down with one of the most respected voices in economic development—Jay Garner of Garner Economics and a long-standing Site Selectors Guild member. Jay brings decades of experience in corporate location advisory work and economic strategy, offering listeners a deep dive into today's site selection environment and the most pressing trends shaping business investment.

A centerpiece of the conversation is the Site Selectors Guild's Guild Partner Program, an innovative initiative designed to strengthen connections between site selection consultants and economic development organizations. As a proud partner of the Site Selectors Guild, Develop This! continues to highlight leading voices and provide economic developers with insider-level access to the industry's most influential practitioners.

Jay also discusses the trajectory of his firm, the unusually high volume of activity in sectors like food and beverage, and why certifications continue to matter. He wraps by sharing insights from the second edition of his widely acclaimed book, Economic Development is Still Not for Amateurs, which has now surpassed 10,000 copies sold.

Whether you're an emerging EDO professional or a seasoned leader, this is a must-listen conversation packed with strategy, context, and candid wisdom.

Key Takeaways

Garner Economics specializes in corporate location advisory services and economic development strategy, serving both communities and private-sector clients.
The current site selection landscape is exceptionally active, with robust movement particularly in the food and beverage industries.
The Site Selectors Guild was founded to foster collaboration, ethical standards, and a collegial environment among vetted site selection professionals.
The new Guild Partner Program provides curated, high-impact networking opportunities exclusively for economic development organizations.
Participation in the program enhances visibility by giving EDOs featured profiles on the Guild's website, placing them in front of active site selection consultants.
Guild partners gain access to exclusive VIP networking events, creating meaningful and direct connections with Guild members.
The Site Selectors Guild maintains an exceptionally high retention rate, underscoring the value members find in the organization.
Jay emphasizes the continued importance of certifications as a signal of professionalism and commitment within the economic development field.
His book, Economic Development is Still Not for Amateurs, is designed to help community leaders, elected officials, and stakeholders understand the realities of economic development work.
The book's second edition has sold over 10,000 copies, a testament to its impact and relevance.

DT #600 Building Trust in AI: Why Guardrails and Human Oversight Matter Nov 19, 2025

Show notes

💡 Episode Summary

In the final installment of the Develop This! AI series, host Dennis Fraise is joined by Ashley Canada and Eric Canada for an in-depth conversation on developing a comprehensive AI strategy framework for organizations of all sizes.

Together, they unpack the critical need for guardrails that ensure ethical and effective AI use, the importance of human oversight, and the dangers of shadow AI—when employees use unapproved tools without governance.

The discussion highlights data privacy, ethical AI boundaries, and organizational alignment, providing leaders with a practical blueprint for implementing lightweight AI governance. Whether you're leading a small team or managing a large organization, this episode offers real-world insights to help you balance innovation, compliance, and trust.

🚀 Key Takeaways

Every organization—no matter its size—needs clear AI guardrails.
Guardrails ensure AI adoption remains safe, ethical, and effective.
Human oversight is vital to verify AI-generated results.
Establish policies that discourage shadow AI and unauthorized tool use.
Team involvement in AI policy development fosters buy-in and accountability.
80% of AI tools are failing due to improper implementation.
Always check references and sources when using AI for research.
Protect your organization by prioritizing data privacy and IP security.
Set clear ethical boundaries for AI-generated content.
A well-defined AI strategy drives innovation aligned with organizational goals.

DT #599 How Research FDI is Transforming Investment Attraction for EDOs Nov 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Bruce Takefman, Founder and CEO of Research FDI, to explore how technology, AI, and global trends are reshaping the future of investment attraction.

Bruce shares his personal journey and lessons learned from years of helping communities and economic development organizations (EDOs) compete in a rapidly evolving global marketplace. From AI-powered tools like FDI 365 to training programs that strengthen EDO outreach, Bruce highlights the strategies that separate high-performing organizations from the rest.

Listeners will gain insights into:

Why a clear investment attraction plan is essential for success
How smaller communities can leverage their unique assets
The growing role of AI and data analytics in investment outreach
How to measure success beyond leads—through site visits and job creation
The importance of diversity, inclusion, and global perspective in building competitive teams

Whether you're leading a regional partnership or managing a local EDO, this conversation delivers actionable takeaways to elevate your investment attraction efforts and prepare for what's next.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Investment attraction starts with a strategic, community-aligned plan
Technology and AI are transforming how EDOs identify and pursue opportunities
Smaller communities can win by focusing on their distinctive strengths
Research FDI equips EDOs with tools, training, and insights to compete globally
FDI 365 helps streamline lead management and relationship tracking
Diversity and inclusion drive innovation and strengthen global competitiveness
True success in economic development is measured by site visits and job creation, not just leads

Contact Research FDI for a free consultation: info@researchfdi.com

DT #598 Iowa's Innovative Answer to Housing Shortages and Second Chances Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

🏠 Show Notes

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Mike Norris, Executive Director of SEIRPC and President of the Homes for Iowa Board of Directors, and David Miller, Executive Director of Homes for Iowa. Together, they share how an innovative Iowa initiative is tackling two of the state's most pressing challenges—affordable housing and workforce development—while also giving incarcerated individuals a second chance.

Built on a powerful public-private partnership with Iowa Prison Industries, Homes for Iowa trains men at the Newton, IA Correctional Facility in construction trades while building high-quality, affordable homes that are then moved to communities across the state.

Since launching in 2019, the program has:✅ Constructed and moved over 150 homes to 50 Iowa counties✅ Helped reduce recidivism by providing meaningful job training and purpose✅ Filled a crucial gap in the affordable housing market✅ Earned strong community support and positive feedback statewide

Mike and David discuss how the program came to life, what they've learned along the way, and their vision for the future—including expanding production capacity and creating an alumni foundation for program graduates.

Whether you're an economic developer, housing professional, or community leader, this episode delivers powerful lessons on innovation, collaboration, and human impact—a true model for other states to follow.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Homes for Iowa provides affordable homes while training incarcerated men in building trades.
The initiative helps reduce recidivism and strengthens Iowa's workforce pipeline.
150+ homes have already been placed in 50 counties across Iowa.
Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
The program's public-private partnership with Iowa Prison Industries is central to its success.
Future goals include expanding operations and creating a support network for alumni.
Homes for Iowa serves as a replicable model for other states facing similar challenges.

DT #597 The Hidden Costs of Toxic Leadership Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

💡 Episode Summary

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Mark Perna, a national thought leader on workforce, education, and generational engagement, for a deep dive into one of the most damaging forces in any organization—toxic leadership.

Together, Dennis and Mark unpack the growing disengagement crisis in today's workforce and explore the concept of the "Toxaboss"—a leader who demands high performance but fails to offer recognition or connection. They discuss how toxic behaviors erode trust, destroy morale, and ripple through entire organizations, especially within community and economic development teams.

Mark shares actionable strategies for reversing toxicity through self-reflection, gratitude, and consistent recognition—even when leaders can't control pay or promotions. The conversation wraps with insights into generational expectations and a powerful reminder that leading people is both a privilege and a responsibility.

🧭 Key Takeaways

Toxic bosses are a major driver of employee disengagement.
Recognition is the foundation of a healthy leadership culture.
Leaders must invest in trust, connection, and consistency.
Self-reflection is essential to prevent becoming a "Toxaboss."
Toxicity at the top spreads quickly—and costs deeply.
Employees who feel seen and appreciated are far more engaged.
Even without control over pay, leaders can influence culture.
Gratitude and recognition are power multipliers in leadership.
Building a recognition culture enhances performance and retention.
Leadership is a privilege, not a position of entitlement.

DT #596 Navigating IEDC's 2026 Course Catalog: What's New and What's Next Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

🎧 Episode Summary

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Lynn Kreach, Learning & Development Associate with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), to explore the evolving world of professional development in economic development.

From IEDC's new 2026 course catalog to the rise of virtual training and the importance of certification and continuous learning, Lynn shares a behind-the-scenes look at how IEDC equips professionals with the tools, skills, and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing field.

The conversation covers how courses are designed for immediate, real-world application, the impact of networking and peer learning, and how becoming an IEDC instructor can be a natural next step in leadership. Whether you're a new practitioner or a seasoned pro, this episode will inspire you to take charge of your learning journey.

💡 Key Takeaways

IEDC provides a complete pathway for economic developers at every stage of their careers.
Courses focus on practical application—tools and strategies you can use the next day.
Networking remains a cornerstone of professional growth and knowledge sharing.
Certification pathways are built around IEDC's core competencies.
Partnerships enrich the learning experience and expand access to expertise.
Virtual learning requires new engagement strategies—and IEDC is leading the way.
Instructors bring real-world experience and case studies to life in the classroom.
Continuous learning keeps professionals ahead in a dynamic, fast-evolving field.
Emerging trends include skills-first hiring and greater use of data-driven insights.
The best time to plan your professional development? Right now.

DT #595 Workforce at a Crossroads: Compete, Adapt, and Thrive — with Jay Garner, Site Selectors Guild Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

💡 Episode Summary

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Jay Garner, President of Garner Economics and a founding member of the Site Selectors Guild, to tackle one of the biggest challenges in economic development today—the workforce crisis.

Jay and Dennis dig into the realities behind the "silver tsunami" as millions of baby boomers near retirement, explore the widening skills gap, and discuss how quality of place now drives business investment decisions. They also examine how immigration, technology, and regional collaboration are reshaping workforce dynamics—and what communities can do to stay competitive.

Whether you're leading a local EDO, working in workforce strategy, or trying to attract industry to your region, this episode delivers timely insights on how to pivot and prepare for what's next.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Workforce is the #1 concern for economic developers and site selectors.
The "silver tsunami"—20% of the workforce nearing retirement—will redefine labor markets.
Investment follows talent, and talent follows quality of place.
Communities must enhance livability and amenities to attract and retain workers.
Immigration is vital to sustaining labor force growth.
Technology continues to reshape job demand and skill requirements.
Retention is the new recruitment—keeping your existing workforce is a win.
Collaboration between local industry, education, and government is essential for lasting solutions.

DT #594 The Power of Place and Pride: Celebrating Filipino American History Month Oct 29, 2025

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of Develop This!, host Joi Cuartero Austin sits down with her sister, Christine Cuartero, Co-Director of the Filipino School of Chicago, to explore how cultural heritage can shape stronger communities and local economies.

October marks Filipino American History Month, a time to honor the resilience, creativity, and contributions of Filipino Americans across generations. Joi and Christine discuss how celebrating heritage is more than preserving tradition; it's an act of community-building, identity, and empowerment.

From the diverse neighborhood of Albany Park in Chicago, Christine shares the story of how a group of Pinay mothers in education came together to found a school rooted in bayanihan (collective spirit), kapwa (shared humanity), and cultural pride.

Together, they discuss how cultural education fosters belonging, how immigrant stories shape the economic and social fabric of neighborhoods, and how investing in heritage is a powerful strategy for local revitalization.

In this episode:

The significance of Filipino American History Month and why representation matters.
The story behind the Filipino School of Chicago, founded by a group of Pinay educators to preserve culture, language, and pride for the next generation.
How Albany Park's diversity is both a cultural and economic asset.
How cultural spaces foster belonging and retention, key factors in economic development.
The role of heritage-based entrepreneurship and cultural businesses in driving local vitality.
Why bayanihan, the Filipino spirit of collective effort, mirrors the principles of successful community and economic development.
Practical ways economic developers can partner with immigrant-led and cultural organizations to strengthen inclusivity and representation in local economies.

Daughter of immigrants from Orani, Bataan and Quezon City, Christine C is an educator and community organizer with over a decade of service across public school settings and neighborhoods in Chicago and New York City. Committed to equity and civic engagement, she's worked with organizations like El Puente (NYC) and the National Center for Urban Education of Illinois State University (Chicago) to connect community based organizations with schools, lead service-learning initiatives, and mentor future educators. Christine is a Chicago Public Schools leader and parent, and co-founder of the Filipino School of Chicago. She currently works as a case manager at a CPS elementary school.

DT #593 How GrantGuru Helps Communities Compete for Funding Oct 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Adrian Spencer, Co-Founder and Director of GrantGuru, the world's largest aggregator of grants and funding programs. Together, they explore how Grant Guru is transforming the way communities, local governments, and nonprofits access funding opportunities.

Adrian shares his unlikely journey from geology to grant funding, the evolution of GrantGuru into a global grants intelligence platform, and how its technology helps simplify and democratize access to more than 163,000 active grants worth over $3.5 trillion.

Listeners will learn how economic developers can leverage GrantGuru to identify relevant programs, support local businesses and nonprofits, and strategically use grants as a tool for long-term community growth. Adrian and Dennis also dive into the challenge of keeping grant data current, designing user-friendly tools, and the importance of pairing funding with strategic thinking and local impact.

Whether you're a small-town economic developer or part of a regional organization, this conversation offers practical insights into how technology can make the complex world of grants more accessible, transparent, and effective.

Key Takeaways