The Bottom-Up Revolution

Jacob Hyman is a civil-site engineer in training and the leader of Strong Towns Steubenville, a Local Conversation in Ohio. Originally from Florida, he moved to Steubenville after serving in the Air Force and started the city's Local Conversation two years later. He works for Crabtree Group, Inc., which provides site engineering services for traditional neighborhood developments and infill development across the country and globe. Today, Hyman joins host Tiffany Owens Reed on The Bottom-Up Revolution to discuss the challenges of revitalizing a Rust Belt city, how Strong Towns Steubenville is tackling those challenges, and how a combination of creativity, community and faith could be exactly what Steubenville — and cities like it — need to thrive. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Local recommendations: Steubenville Nutcracker Village. Leonardo's Coffeehouse & Renaissance Coffee Roasting Co. Spyridon Studios. Chesterton & Co. Cigars. Yorgo's Gyros & Potatoes. 4th Street Standard. Martonis Pizza. Tiffany Owens Reed (Instagram). Do you know someone who would make for a great The Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!

Tiffany Elder, a multi-talented licensed general contractor, realtor, and real estate developer from Durham, North Carolina, shares her journey into real estate. She discusses the challenges of the Raleigh-Durham housing crisis, emphasizing the importance of affordable housing and community-driven projects. Tiffany highlights the benefits of incremental development and how local zoning innovations are paving the way for positive change. Listeners will be inspired by her insights on transforming neighborhoods without displacing residents, all while enjoying Durham's vibrant culture.

Jennifer Krouse, a real estate strategist and CEO of Liberty House Plans, discusses the nuances of urban productivity. She emphasizes the importance of social capital and thoughtful municipal investments for community well-being. The conversation highlights how cities function as interconnected ecosystems, advocating for a shift from mere efficiency to creating meaningful, value-centered outcomes. Krouse also shares insights on local training sessions for advocates aiming to enhance transparency and communication with governments, underscoring the need for sustainable, data-driven practices.

Paloma Delgadillo, a council member from Broomfield, Colorado, brings her expertise in economics and analytics to the discussion. She dives into her initiatives for parking reform, aimed at making her city more resilient and enhancing land use. Delgadillo reflects on her transition from Chicago's urban landscape to suburban governance, stressing the significance of local civic engagement. She also addresses the challenges local officials face in advocating for meaningful policy changes and the importance of community involvement in shaping livable environments.

Alec Davis, a former engineer and consultant turned urban advocate, shares his journey from corporate life to founding Momentum Des Moines. He discusses efforts to improve accessibility in the city by addressing car dependency and advocating for local zoning reforms. Davis highlights the importance of grassroots movements in urban planning and reflects on the complexity of public transit challenges. Additionally, he explores Des Moines' vibrant culture, including its local cuisine and biking trails, showcasing the community's potential for positive change.

Jennifer Krouse, a real estate strategist and CEO of Liberty House Plans, shares her insights on making incremental development easier and less risky. She discusses the concept of placecraft, emphasizing the need for human-centered approaches to community design. Krouse highlights the importance of aesthetics in urban spaces and the role of pre-approved plans in addressing housing challenges. She also reflects on her journey from aspiring architect to advocate for developers, showcasing how small changes can create vibrant, community-friendly environments.

Seth Zeren, a neighborhood developer and founding member of Strong Towns, discusses the intricate dance of political support and community resistance in urban planning. He highlights the benefits of incremental development in places like Providence while navigating the tension between needed growth and rising property taxes. Zeren shares personal stories of community engagement and the emotional complexities tied to development. He emphasizes the need for advocacy and collaboration to create sustainable neighborhoods without succumbing to the pitfalls of gentrification.

Erik Lowe, founder of Reimagine Spokane, advocates for safer streets and enhanced transit options in Spokane. He discusses his $1 billion 'Spokane Reimagined' plan aimed at improving community connectivity over 20 years. The conversation reveals the importance of walkable neighborhoods and pedestrian-friendly spaces. Erik shares insights from personal experiences, the challenges of urban mobility, and the innovative AFTram project to boost connectivity. Community engagement and grassroots advocacy play key roles in shaping a better, more accessible urban landscape.

Seth Zeren, a neighborhood developer and founding member of Strong Towns, shares his journey from city planning to incremental development in Providence, Rhode Island. He discusses the stark divide between developers and communities, emphasizing the power of small-scale projects to revitalize urban spaces. Zeren elaborates on innovative financing models and the importance of personal accountability in bridging gaps between developers and residents. His insights into transforming historic buildings and fostering local relationships reveal a compassionate approach to tackling the housing crisis.

Erin Joyce is the mayor of Braintree, Massachusetts. She’s also a professional civil engineer, former chair of her local planning board, former PTO president, youth soccer coach, and mom to three boys. She’s joining host Tiffany Owens Reed today on The Bottom-Up Revolution to discuss what it’s like to build strong towns as an elected official, the challenges and opportunities she’s faced, and the importance of community engagement in local government. ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES Erin Joyce (site). Local recommendations: Widowmaker Brewery in the Blue Hills. Foley's Ice Cream Shop. Thayer Birth Place, Historical Society. Tiffany Owens Reed (Instagram). Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!