

Econ Dev Show Podcast - Economic Development
Dane Carlson
Dane Carlson explores the strategies, ideas, and insights that are driving economic development forward into the future. You'll hear new insights from passionate ED's about their successes and struggles, and you'll learn from attraction and retention experts about how to apply actionable strategies inside your EDO. We'll help take your organization, your community, and your career to the next level.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 1, 2023 • 34min
92: The Human Centered Approach to Economic Development with Larry Holt
In this podcast episode, Dane Carlson talks with Larry Holt, the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation's Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development.
Holt shares his insights on the human-centered approach to economic development. According to Holt, economic development is all about serving the communities and providing them with opportunities that will improve their lives.
He also discusses the challenges and opportunities of economic development in California, a state with a massive population boom after World War II that has led to significant housing supply issues. He acknowledges that the birthplace of the environmental movement and taxation policies have also contributed to restrictions on new housing growth, making it difficult to keep working-class families in their homes. However, he remains optimistic about the state's concerted effort to drive new housing supply and incentivize more housing around public transportation, which will help meet California's climate goals.
Despite the challenges, Holt believes that economic development is more relevant than ever, and economic developers have a crucial role to play in driving the future of their communities. He notes that they must be larger voices for pro-housing policies, advocate for resources for workforce systems, and have a broader view of economic development beyond just attracting businesses. In closing, Holt expresses his excitement about the future of Los Angeles and California's economic development and the role he and his colleagues play in shaping their communities' future.Special Guest: Larry Holt.Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Larry Holt | LinkedInLos Angeles County Economic Development CorporationCertain to Win: The Strategy of John Boyd, Applied to Business (Amazon)

Apr 24, 2023 • 18min
91: Ask Dane #1: Starship Edition
Welcome to the inaugural edition of Ask Dane. Every week, you ask, and I answer. Sometimes the questions only need short answers, and other-times they require tons of research or contemplation. This issue is a little of both.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Econ Dev Pro: Upgrade your subscription and support the Econ Dev Show with a paid membership. Plus AI in Economic Development and other bonuses.Links:Ask Dane #1: Starship EditionSpaceXStarship Test FlightSouth Padre IslandMargaritaville Beach Resort - South Padre Island Beach HotelStarship Launch from South Padre Island 4/20/23 - YouTubeObsidian

Apr 18, 2023 • 57min
90: Gen Z Marketing in Plain English with Kathleen McQuaid Holdridge and Jessica Packard
Kathleen McQuaid Holdridge, Jessica Packard, and Dane Carlson delve deep into the world of Generation Z, exploring their unique characteristics, values, and preferences that are shaping today's marketing landscape. Our expert guests discuss strategies for successfully marketing to this powerful demographic, including embracing authenticity, leveraging multiple platforms, and focusing on visual storytelling. They also share real-life examples of effective marketing campaigns within economic development, shedding light on how these initiatives can attract and retain businesses, entrepreneurs, and talent. Tune in and discover the keys to unlocking the immense potential of Generation Z, the next wave of consumers, workforce, and innovators.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Special Guests: Jessica Packard and Kathleen McQuaid Holdridge.Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:KathodeRay MediaWhy is Gen Z Humor So Weird?

Apr 10, 2023 • 34min
89: Slam Dunk Economic Development Strategies: Mark Litten's Basketball Experience Transforms Small Communities"
In this action-packed episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Mark Litten, VP of Economic Development at Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, about his transition from basketball officiating to empowering small communities. Mark shares insights on local-level involvement, the importance of marketing for smaller communities, and the potential impact of eliminating Enterprise Florida. Tune in to "Slam Dunk Economic Development Strategies" and discover how Mark Litten's basketball experience informs his transformative approach to local economic development.
In the latest episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson welcomes Mark Litten, Vice President of Economic Development at the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce in Palatka, Florida.
Mark shares his journey into economic development, starting with his roots in Ohio and Michigan before transitioning to Florida. The conversation also touches on the challenges of attracting businesses and Mark's experience as a retired basketball official.
Highlighting the importance of bringing young people into economic development, Mark emphasizes the need for extroverted individuals with strong communication skills.
Mark also discusses his preference for working in the private or non-profit sectors rather than the government. He believes there is more freedom and involvement in the local level as opposed to the state level. At the local level, they work with everything from site visits to negotiating prices, whereas at the state level, they are more focused on incentives.
He also mentions the importance of marketing, especially for smaller communities. Due to limited budgets, small communities often have to raise funds to be competitive in marketing. Economic development focused magazines such as Site Selection, Business Facilities, and Area Development are popular places to advertise, reaching a wide readership of C-Suite individuals. However, frequent ad placements and online advertising can be costly for smaller communities.
In Florida, there is a current discussion about eliminating Enterprise Florida and changing Visit Florida's tourism funding. The economic development director feels that it is shortsighted by the legislature and will create problems for attracting businesses. With the potential elimination of Enterprise Florida, he believes that there will be a shift in how leads are handled, and it will be a learning curve for many people. In response, he is increasing marketing efforts and planning to develop strategies to compete with other micropolitan communities.
This insightful episode of the Econ Dev Show provides valuable perspectives on economic development and marketing challenges, particularly for smaller communities. Mark Litten's wealth of experience and forward-thinking approach offer essential guidance for those looking to navigate the changing landscape of economic development.
As the conversation delves into critical topics such as attracting businesses, engaging young professionals, and the importance of strategic marketing, listeners are sure to benefit from the knowledge shared by both Mark and host Dane Carlson.
Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation -- tune in to the latest episode of the Econ Dev Show to hear Mark Litten's invaluable insights and practical advice. Listen now, and stay ahead in the world of economic development.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Mark Litten.Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Mark Litten | LinkedInEconomic Development - Putnam County ChamberHome - Putnam County Chamber

Apr 3, 2023 • 37min
88: The Pursuit of Economic Development with Professor Todd Gabe
In this episode, Dane talks with Professor Todd Gabe. He is a professor of Economics at the University of Maine, author of the textbook, The Pursuit of Economic Development: Growing Good Jobs in U.S. Cities and States. He also publishes content from his classes, book, and other research on YouTube.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Todd Gabe - School of Economics - University of MaineThe Pursuit of Economic Development: Growing Good Jobs in U.S. Cities and StatesSome Random Economist - YouTubeEconomic Contribution of Maine’s Aquaculture Industry - Aquaculture Research Institute

Mar 20, 2023 • 25min
87: Rural Rescue: Small Town Solutions with David Thornell
In this episode, Dane talks with David Thornell, the author of Small Town Solutions: An Economic Development Guide for Small Communities with BIG Dreams, and founder of Small Town Solutions Consulting. He retired after 40+ years of service to community and economic development organizations mainly in rural environments, and now provides specialized consulting.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: David Thornell.Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Amazon: Small Town Solutions: An Economic Development Guide for Small Communities with BIG DreamsKindle: Small Town Solutions : An Economic Development Guide for Small Communities with BIG Dreams eBook : Thornell, David: Kindle StoreSmall Town SolutionsDavid Thornell | LinkedIn

Mar 13, 2023 • 31min
86: Building an Outdoor Economy with Thomas Salley
Nationally, outdoor recreation is a $788 billion dollar industry, accounting for 2.1% of U.S. GDP and 5.2 million jobs in 2019. In North Carolina, the outdoor recreation economy accounted for 2 percent ($12.1 billion) of the state GDP and created 151,661 jobs in the state.
Thomas Salley, the director of tourism for the City of Wilkesboro, North Carolina knows this all too well. He's an integral part of a team working to create a community-led vision and 15-year roadmap to grow the outdoor economy and encourage active living in Wilkes County.
The group is focusing on the planning and development of outdoor recreation infrastructure projects such as trails, greenways, destination-quality parks, attractive downtowns, and the creation of multi-use public spaces suitable for major events and festivals. These projects contribute significantly to the quality of life for local residents, help grow small businesses, and attract visitors.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Thomas Salley.Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Wilkes Outdoor Action Plan (PDF)Wilkes Outdoor Action PlanThomas Salley | LinkedInHome | Made by Mountains - Western North CarolinaHome - Mountain BizWorksHome - Black Folks Camp TooIssa Vibe AdventuresWilkesboro, NC - Hotels, Music, Food, Things to Doestination by Design

Mar 6, 2023 • 9min
85: Dane Talks to Himself... On Video
Dane wants to start producing video content for the Econ Dev Show Podcast, but first, he must get comfortable on camera. And the best way that he's found to get over his fear of almost anything is to just do it!
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Youtube: Econ Dev Show Podcast #85: Dane Talks to Himself... On VideoBe a Guest on the Econ Dev Show Podcast

Feb 27, 2023 • 22min
84: A 20 Minute Business Attraction Strategy with Tom Wengler
In this episode, Dane talks to Tom Wengler. In just 20 minutes, they explain how the best economic development marketing teams stay in front of site selectors and business executives who've visited their websites.
Tom explains how to stay top of mind with these people to get more leads.
Plus, you'll learn how advertisers target you with ads too. You can use this knowledge as part of your Business Attraction Strategy!
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Tom Wengler.Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Tom's webinar: A 20 minute business attraction strategyTom Wengler | LinkedInHubSpot for Economic Development CRM - Marketing - Leads — (Tom's company)How to use a ChatBot on your Sites and Building Pages - YouTubeB2B Database - Gazelle | B2B database for growing companiesCamoin Associates | Economic Development ConsultingZoomInfo: B2B Database | Company Contacts & Intelligence

Feb 20, 2023 • 35min
83: Childcare as an Economic Development Priority with Cody Morrison
In this episode, Dane talks with Cody Morrison about childcare as an economic development priority. Cody is the Executive Director of the Monadnock Economic Development Corporation in Keene, New Hampshire. The MEDC has taken a leading role in working to improve the number of childcare providers in their region.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Cody Morrison.Sponsored By:KathodeRay Media, Inc.: 
[KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)Links:Cody Morrison seeks to reimagine MEDC’s impact, forge new connectionsCody Morrison Tell-All - YouTubeCody Morrison Executive Director of M.E.D.C. On WKBK’s Open Mic With Dan Mitchell. 2.6.23 | WKBK RadioMonadnock Economic Development Corporation: Overview | LinkedInMonadnock Economic Development Corporation | Keene NH | FacebookMonadock Economic Development Corporation - Economic Development - Commercial Loan, Grant, Development, Real Estate, Tax Credit, Workforce Development.Cody Morrison | LinkedInThe Gatekeepers: How the White House Chiefs of Staff Define Every PresidencyRumsfeld's Rules: Leadership Lessons in Business, Politics, War, and Life