The New Economic Developers on the Block

In this episode of The New Economic Developers on the Block, we sit down with Nate Groover, Economic Development Director for the Town of Garner. Nate brings a unique perspective shaped by years of experience across every level of economic development—state, regional, local, and private-sector—plus a foundation built in the U.S. Air Force.We explore how those roles shaped his approach to economic development, what it means to “work with what you have,” and how Garner is building momentum through strategic partnerships and community assets. Nate also shares lessons from earning his NC Certified Economic Developer credential, serving on the NCEDA Board of Directors, and making the leap from business recruitment to on-the-ground implementation.We also cover lighter topics—like stadium hopping with his kids, the search for the best NC BBQ, and a deep love of Seinfeld.It’s a grounded, funny, and honest conversation about what it takes to grow a local economy—one relationship at a time.🎧 Subscribe for more real conversations about economic development, leadership, and the people behind the progress.

In this episode of The New Economic Developers on the Block, we sit down with Nathan Huret, Economic Development Director at Catawba County EDC. With over 15 years of experience, Nathan has led key initiatives like the Catawba Lean Council, Manufactured in NC, the Catawba County Wages & Benefits Survey, and HKY4Vets. He shares insights on building strong partnerships, making programs sustainable, and why persistence is key—even when timing challenges a great idea.We also take a detour into some behind-the-scenes chaos as Elizabeth runs into some unexpected microphone troubles (and maybe even breaks it). Tune in for a fun, insightful conversation on the realities of making economic development programs work—and the occasional tech mishap along the way.Subscribe now for more candid conversations on economic development and leadership.

In this episode of The New Economic Developers on the Block, we sit down with Ben Kinney, Publisher of Business North Carolina and SouthPark magazines. With a storied career at the helm of award-winning publications that capture the essence of North Carolina’s diverse economy and lifestyle, Ben offers invaluable insights into the ever-changing world of media. He shares practical tips for handling media relations and discusses how the news landscape has transformed during his tenure, reflecting broader shifts in communication and technology. Along the way, we also delve into his love of music and explore how it inspires his creative approach to business and storytelling. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in media evolution, innovative leadership, and the art of blending passion with professionalism.Subscribe now for more engaging episodes and join us as we continue to explore the cutting edge of economic development and media innovation.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The New Economic Developers on the Block! This week, we're thrilled to have Joe Melvin, Vice President of North Carolina’s Southeast Regional Economic Development Partnership, join us for a candid conversation about his dynamic career and visionary approach to economic development.With over 16 years of experience spanning key roles at organizations like the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Alliance Consulting Engineers, Inc., Joe has honed a unique perspective on leadership and innovation. In our discussion, he shares how we can approach economic development with the same passion, care, and intentionality found in a ministry—treating our work with love and commitment to community transformation.Join us as Joe delves into:His career journey and notable achievements, including being recognized as one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers.The critical role of strategic planning, global marketing, and partnership building in driving successful economic initiatives.How adopting a ministry-like mindset can infuse our economic development efforts with compassion and purpose.Tune in, subscribe, and be inspired by Joe's refreshing outlook on merging economic expertise with a heart-driven approach to community development!

Welcome back to the second season of "The New Economic Developers on the Block" podcast! In this episode, we are excited to have Anna Walker, Economic Development Manager with the NC Electric Cooperatives.We had an engaging conversation about Anna's journey from being raised in Georgia to finding her place in North Carolina. Anna, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Princeton University, has been with the NC Electric Cooperatives for nearly two years, starting as an Economic Development Specialist and now serving as the Economic Development Manager. We also explored the various programs and grants offered by the NC Electric Cooperatives and delved into the work of the NCEDA Emerging Executives Committee.Tune in, subscribe, and stay tuned for more insightful discussions this season!

Welcome back to the second season of "The New Economic Developers on the Block" podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to have Natalie Hawkins, President of the Moore County Economic Development Partnership (MCEDP) and Chair of the Legislative Committee with NCEDA, who also serves on the NCEDA Board of Directors.We had a fantastic conversation about Natalie's journey from being a CPA to working with the Village of Pinehurst, and now leading the Moore County Economic Development Partnership. We also delved into the crucial work of the Legislative Committee with NCEDA and the significance of the "Take Your Legislator to Work" day.Natalie joined MCEDP as President in May 2021 after a 20-year career at the Village of Pinehurst, where she served as the Assistant Village Manager. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Master of Science degree in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Natalie is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and a former Certified Public Accountant (CPA).Tune in, subscribe, and stay tuned for more engaging discussions this season!

Welcome back to the second season of "The New Economic Developers on the Block" podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to have Kelly Andrews, Director of Pitt County Economic Development, as our guest. Kelly shares her expertise and insights into the economic growth of Pitt County and Greenville, including the monumental success of Project Bluefin, one of the county's largest announcements.In our conversation, we dive deep into how this project has impacted the region, the strategic planning that went into securing such a significant win, and what it means for the future of Pitt County. Kelly also touches on her journey in economic development, her leadership roles within the community, and the broader economic landscape of Eastern North Carolina.Tune in, subscribe, and stay tuned for more engaging discussions this season!Kelly's Bio:Kelly Andrews is a native and life-long resident of Pitt County. She has been with Pitt County Economic Development since 2006, serving as Director since 2020. Prior to that, she worked for the North Carolina Department of Labor as an apprenticeship and training consultant, covering over 20 counties in Eastern NC.Kelly became a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) in 2020. She earned an MBA from East Carolina University ('98) and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ('94). She has served on the NCEDA Board of Directors and is currently on the Pitt Community College Board of Trustees and EDPNC Economic Development Advisory Council (EDAC). Additionally, she is involved in several other local and regional boards, including the Martin-Pitt Partnership for Children, ECU Engineering Advisory, and the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce.

Welcome back to the second season of "The New Economic Developers on the Block" podcast! In this episode, we're joined by Samantha Cole, the Child Care Business Liaison for the North Carolina Department of Commerce. Samantha brings a unique perspective on the crucial role of child care in economic development.Before joining N.C. Commerce, Samantha served as the Director of Workforce Partnerships with the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County, where she spearheaded efforts to connect individuals facing employment barriers with meaningful job opportunities. She also helped local employers implement innovative workforce development strategies.In our conversation, we explore the intersection of child care and economic development, and how economic developers can play a role in expanding access to quality child care to support businesses and families. Samantha offers valuable insights into the challenges and solutions surrounding child care access in North Carolina and shares outcomes from recent child care business roundtables.Tune in, subscribe, and stay tuned for more engaging discussions this season!

Welcome back to the second season of "The New Economic Developers on the Block" podcast! In this episode, we're joined by Ernie Pearson, Senior Counsel with Maynard Nexsen and founding partner of Sanford Holshouser, Economic Development Consulting. Ernie brings a wealth of experience in economic development, having worked with over one hundred companies and numerous local and regional programs.We dive into Ernie's impressive career, discussing multi-jurisdictional industrial parks, the differences between shell buildings and ready buildings, and much more. Ernie shares his insights on the creative approaches that lead to successful outcomes for businesses and communities alike. This conversation is packed with valuable knowledge for anyone interested in economic development.Tune in, subscribe, and stay tuned for more exciting episodes this season!

Welcome back to the second season of "The New Economic Developers on the Block" podcast! We're thrilled to kick off this season with a special guest, Chris Chung, CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC). In this episode, we have an engaging conversation with Chris about EDPNC and their upcoming tenth-year anniversary. Chris shares his inspiring journey from being a student at Ohio State to leading EDPNC. Tune in for insights, stories, and more. Please listen and subscribe, and stay tuned for an exciting lineup of guests this season!

Welcome to the final episode of Season 1 of "The New Developers on the Block"! As we gear up for a summer break and eagerly anticipate Season 2 launching late this summer, we're excited to wrap up with a special guest and a glimpse into the dynamic world of economic development.In this episode, we are joined by Stephanie Grosick, Vice President of Business Development at the Florence County Economic Development Partnership in South Carolina. Stephanie sheds light on the nuances between economic development in South Carolina and North Carolina, highlighting shared connections and distinct strategies.Stephanie's LinkedIn ProfileJoin us as we explore the strategies, challenges, and successes in fostering economic growth across different regions. Whether you're familiar with economic development or just diving in, this episode offers valuable insights and perspectives.Stay tuned for Season 2, where we'll continue bringing you engaging conversations and expert insights from the economic development landscape. And don't forget to mark your calendars for the NCEDA Annual Conference in Wilmington, NC—we look forward to seeing you there!"The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA), dedicated to advancing collaboration and innovation in economic development. Subscribe now to stay informed and inspired by our upcoming episodes!

Welcome to a special episode of “The New Developers on the Block”! Today, we are thrilled to welcome our first out-of-state guest, Ben McDaniel, the Economic Development Director for the Barrow-Braselton Joint Economic Development Authority in Georgia.Click Here to view Ben’s LinkedIn ProfileIn this episode, we had the pleasure of learning more about Ben and his community of Barrow County. Ben shares his expertise on leveraging LinkedIn and ChatGPT for economic development, offering valuable insights into how these tools can enhance community marketing efforts.Ben discusses the innovative strategies he employs to attract businesses and foster economic growth in Barrow County. He provides practical advice on utilizing LinkedIn for networking and promotion, as well as how ChatGPT can be a game-changer for economic developers looking to streamline communication and information dissemination.“The New Developers on the Block” is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). We remain dedicated to fostering dialogue and collaboration within the economic development community through engaging discussions like this one. Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation with Ben McDaniel—subscribe now.

Welcome to another exciting installment of "The New Developers on the Block"! In this episode, listeners are treated to an insightful conversation with Trey Goodson, the Chief Information Officer and Economic Development Director for the NC East Alliance.Click Here to view Trey's LinkedIn Profile Trey shares his journey from being a student at East Carolina University (ECU) to working with the NC East Alliance. He delves into the significant contributions of STEM East, an initiative of NC East Alliance, explaining what STEM East is and highlighting the impactful work it is doing. Additionally, Trey discusses his hopes for the future of eastern North Carolina, outlining his vision for the next ten to twenty years.Throughout the episode, Trey offers practical advice and reflections on his career path and the initiatives that drive economic growth in the region. His story is an inspiring blend of personal achievements and professional insights."The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Through engaging discussions like this one, NCEDA remains committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration within the economic development community. Don't miss out on this illuminating conversation with Trey Goodson—subscribe now.

Welcome to another exciting installment of "The New Developers on the Block"! In this episode, listeners are treated to an insightful conversation with Cliff Brumfield, the Executive Director of the Lincoln Economic Development Association (LEDA). From his enduring passion for Ford Broncos to his journey to Lincoln County and his perspectives on professional development, Cliff's story offers a captivating blend of personal interests and professional insights.Throughout the episode, Cliff draws upon his wealth of knowledge to offer practical advice and reflections on professional development. From cultivating strategic partnerships to staying abreast of industry trends, his insights serve as a roadmap for aspiring professionals seeking to make their mark in the field. "The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Through engaging discussions like this one, NCEDA remains committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration within the economic development community. Don't miss out on this illuminating conversation with Cliff Brumfield—subscribe now for more thought-provoking insights on the forefront of economic growth and community prosperity.

Welcome to a captivating episode of "The New Developers on the Block,". In this episode, we are joined by Maria Satira, the Director of Marketing and Communications at the Greenville ENC Alliance. With over a decade of experience in journalism, media relations, marketing, and communications, Maria brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion. We delve into the crucial role of marketing in economic development, the strategies for effective community promotion, and the importance of strategic partnerships and talent attraction. Maria shares insights from her book, "An Introduction to Media Relations for Nonprofit Organizations," and her experiences in various newsrooms and economic development groups. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Maria Satira, as we uncover the power of marketing in driving economic growth and community development.Click Here for a Link to Her Book"The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Subscribe now for more engaging discussions on the dynamics of economic development.

Welcome to another insightful episode of "The New Developers on the Block"!In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Josh Grant, a key member of the NCEDA Legislative Committee. Josh's diverse background in business, higher education, and government, including his significant experience at the General Assembly, has shaped his expertise in legislative advocacy. Join us as we delve into Josh's journey, the inner workings of the General Assembly, and the crucial role of the NCEDA Legislative Committee in advocacy efforts. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the importance of advocacy in economic development and the impact of legislative committees like NCEDA's."The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Subscribe now to stay informed and inspired in the ever-evolving world of economic development.

Welcome to another engaging episode of "The New Developers on the Block"!In this episode, we are honored to have Randall Johnson, Executive Director of the Southeastern Office of the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, as our special guest.Randall Johnson brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, having played a pivotal role in the growth and development of the biotechnology sector in North Carolina. In this conversation, Randall will shed light on the mission and achievements of the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, the vital role of biotechnology in economic development, and the impact of the NCEDA Foundation in supporting these endeavors. We'll also dive into the challenges and opportunities facing the biotech industry, the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and government, and much more.Join us for a fascinating journey into the world of biotechnology and economic development with Randall Johnson. This episode promises to be a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the intersection of science, innovation, and economic growth."The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Subscribe now to stay informed and inspired in the ever-evolving world of economic development.

Welcome to another exciting episode of "The New Developers on the Block"! We are thrilled to introduce our special guest, Crystal Morphis, CCED, with Creative Economic Development Consulting. Crystal is the bright idea generator behind Creative EDC, a firm she founded in 2012 and has since established as the "go-to" economic development consulting firm.With a background as both a practitioner and consultant, Crystal brings a wealth of expertise in strategic planning, product development, organizational development, economic impact studies, existing business retention and expansion programs, and site selection. She has consulted with companies and economic development organizations across the Southeast U.S., building a reputation for quality work and exceptional customer service, as evidenced by the firm's high rate of repeat customers.Creative EDC's entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in its innovative programs, including a web-based site assessment tool, a nationally recognized Certified Entrepreneurial Community® program, a Certified Industrial Buildings Program, and the first back office for economic developers, C-BOSS.Join us as we delve into a fascinating discussion with Crystal Morphis, exploring her journey, insights, and the innovative programs that have made Creative EDC a leader in economic development consulting. Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire and inform."The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Subscribe now to stay informed and empowered in the world of economic development.

Welcome to another captivating episode of "The New Developers on the Block"! In this installment, your hosts, Elizabeth Underwood and Trey Cash, sit down with Charla Duncan, the Director of Community and Economic Development with Warren County and the esteemed recipient of the 2023 NCEDA Emerging Leader of the Year award.Join Elizabeth, Trey, and Charla as they embark on a dynamic conversation exploring Charla's remarkable journey in economic development and her invaluable insights on relationship-building within the field. From navigating challenges to seizing opportunities, Charla shares her expertise and experiences, offering listeners a firsthand glimpse into the world of community and economic development.Discover the strategies and principles that have propelled Charla Duncan to the forefront of her profession as she sheds light on the importance of forging meaningful connections and fostering collaboration for sustainable growth and development.Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking fresh perspectives or an emerging leader eager to glean wisdom from industry trailblazers, this episode promises to inspire and inform. Tune in for an engaging dialogue filled with actionable takeaways and discover why Charla Duncan is a driving force in shaping the economic landscape of Warren County and beyond."The New Developers on the Block" is proudly presented by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Don't miss out—subscribe now to stay informed and empowered in the ever-evolving world of economic development.

Welcome to an exciting episode of "The New Developers on the Block," in which host Elizabeth Underwood engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Blake Moyer, President of the Surry County Economic Development Partnership. In this episode, Elizabeth and Blake explore a range of impactful topics, including the upcoming Emerging Executives Conference, housing issues, and the vital role of professional development in today's economic landscape.The Emerging Executives Forum takes center stage, offering listeners an inside look at initiatives aimed at nurturing the next generation of leaders in North Carolina. Blake Moyer is leading the Surry County Economic Development Partnership toward a prosperous future. Join us as we delve into Blake's insights on key challenges and opportunities, gaining valuable perspectives on the strategies driving positive change in Surry County and beyond.Whether you're a seasoned professional in economic development or just starting your journey, this episode promises to be a compelling exploration of the issues shaping the economic landscape. Tune in for engaging insights, informative discussions, and a closer look at visionary leaders like Blake Moyer, who are significantly impacting the economic development scene."The New Economic Developers on the Block" is brought to you by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Subscribe now to stay connected.

Welcome to an insightful new episode of "The New Economic Developers on the Block." In this episode, hosts Elizabeth Underwood and Trey Cash sit down with Lisa Finaldi, the Community Engagement Leader for the NC Early Childhood Foundation (NCECF). Lisa is at the forefront, leading the NC Campaign for Grade-Level Reading and driving the impactful Family Forward NC initiative.With a rich background as an experienced non-profit leader on the state, national, and international stages, Lisa has a proven track record of bringing communities, businesses, government entities, and organizations together for collaborative change. Throughout her career, she has united disparate voices to define and achieve breakthrough solutions to complex issues.In this episode, we take a deep dive into the current state of early child care in North Carolina and explore the innovative Family Forward NC program. Lisa shares her experiences and insights, shedding light on the collaborative efforts shaping positive change in early childhood development in the state.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that uncovers the challenges and triumphs of shaping cooperative efforts for change in the realm of early childhood care. Whether you're a seasoned economic developer or just starting your journey, this episode promises engaging insights, laughter, and inspiration."The New Economic Developers on the Block" is brought to you by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Subscribe now to stay connected and gain a deeper understanding of the visionary leaders, like Lisa Finaldi, who are shaping North Carolina's economic future. Passion meets purpose as we explore the transformative initiatives paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.

Welcome to a new episode of "The New Economic Developers on the Block." Hosts Elizabeth Underwood and Trey Cash sit down with Melissa Smith, Vice President of Business Recruitment and Development at the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.Explore Melissa's impactful work supporting North Carolina's economic growth with their team. Learn about Melissa's mentors and the valuable lessons that have shaped her career in economic development.Brought to you by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, join us for engaging insights, laughter, and inspiration.Subscribe to "The New Economic Developers on the Block" and discover the dynamic world of economic development through Melissa Smith's perspective. Passion meets progress as we explore the movers and shakers shaping North Carolina's economic future.

Welcome to another riveting episode of "The New Economic Developers on the Block." In this installment, hosts Elizabeth Underwood and Trey Cash engage in a captivating conversation with the distinguished Dr. Patricia Mitchell, CEcD, Chair of the NCEDA Foundation.Dive into the rich tapestry of Dr. Mitchell's illustrious career, as she takes us on a journey from her roles in local and state government to her current position as the Chair of the NCEDA Foundation. Uncover the intricacies of her tenure as the Assistant Secretary for Rural Development at the NC Department of Commerce, where she expertly managed various state and federal incentive grant programs and planning initiatives.Join us as we explore Dr. Mitchell's multifaceted career, including her time as the Director of Economic Development and then the County Manager in Ashe County NC and her roles as an Assistant Professor at East Carolina University and an Adjunct Professor at Appalachian State. Learn about her extensive educational background, including earning DPA and MPA degrees from the University of Georgia and attaining the prestigious Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) distinction from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).In this episode, we also unveil a delightful revelation about Dr. Mitchell's intriguing side gig as a Professional BBQ taste tester. Discover how her diverse experiences have shaped her approach to economic development, and get a taste of the unique blend of passion and humor that defines her perspective.As we delve into Dr. Patricia Mitchell's world, gain insights into her current role as the President of the NC Economic Development Association (NCEDA) and her significant contributions to various organizations, including her service on the UNC School of Government’s Foundation Board of Directors.This episode is proudly sponsored by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA), an organization committed to bringing you exclusive access to the world of economic development – with a side of humor. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, join us for a compelling conversation that transcends the ordinary.Subscribe now to "The New Economic Developers on the Block" and stay tuned for an episode filled with laughter, learning, and inspiration. It's where passion meets progress, and Dr. Patricia Mitchell takes center stage in this dynamic exploration of the movers and shakers shaping the future of economic development.

In this new episode of "The New Economic Developers on the Block," hosts Elizabeth Underwood and Trey Cash sit down with Phillip Thompson, Project Manager at Chatham County Economic Development Corporation. Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey as Phillip shares his transition from the world of insurance to economic development.Phillip recounts a life-changing meeting that set the stage for his career in economic development. We discuss the Carolina Core and discover the driving forces behind his unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth in Chatham County.But it's not all business in this episode – we explore the lighter side of Phillip's life, including the Backstreet Boys and mentors' pivotal role in shaping his professional path. As a bonus, discover the unique blend of passion and humor that defines Phillip's approach to economic development with a zillenial twist.This episode is proudly sponsored by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA), ensuring that you receive an exclusive ticket to the world of economic development with a side of humor. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, don't miss out on the valuable insights and behind-the-scenes stories that "The New Economic Developers on the Block" brings to your ears.Subscribe now and join us for an entertaining ride through the realm of economic development. Get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired as we connect with movers and shakers in the field, delivering the latest scoop on what it takes to make a real impact. This is "The New Economic Developers on the Block" – where passion meets progress!

Welcome to a new episode of "The New Economic Developers on the Block". This edition hosts Elizabeth Underwood and Trey Cash sit down with Marvin Price, the recently crowned NCEDA Economic Developer of the Year from the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce.Join us as Marvin shares his remarkable journey into economic development, offering a unique perspective on the field. From his early days to the pivotal moments that led to his well-deserved recognition, Marvin provides valuable insights that promise to inspire emerging economic developers.In this episode, Marvin delves into the collaborative efforts of working as a regional group, shedding light on the power of teamwork and shared goals in driving economic success. And because our hosts love to keep things interesting, Marvin even touches on unexpected topics like the iconic movie "Space Jam."Sponsored by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA), this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about economic development with a zillenial twist. Elizabeth, Trey, and Marvin take you on a journey filled with laughter, engaging stories, and, of course, a sprinkle of dad jokes.Subscribe now for your exclusive ticket to economic development with a side of humor. Join us as we connect with economic developers across the state, bringing you behind-the-scenes stories and valuable insights. Get ready for an entertaining ride with "The New Economic Developers on the Block"!