Developing the Block, a North Carolina Economic Development Podcast

Hosted by NCEDA

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Latest episode

Oct 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Developing the Block is an economic development podcast hosted by Elizabeth Kazmir and Trey Cash. Each episode, Elizabeth and Trey talk with economic developers, community leaders, and friends from across North Carolina and the United States about the people, projects, challenges, and ideas shaping communities today. From business recruitment and workforce development to site development, partnerships, and the stories behind the projects, Developing the Block is a practical and conversational look at what economic development really looks like. Whether you are new to the profession or have been doing this for years, join us as we learn from each other and keep building the block. Sponsored by the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA), this podcast is your exclusive gateway to the world of economic development, served with a touch of humor. Join Elizabeth, Trey, and the NCEDA as they connect with economic developers across the state, offering insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and a hint of dad jokes. Subscribe now.

Listen to episodes

29 recent

October 26, 2026Episode 453 min

Emily Martin - Duke Energy

On this episode of Developing the Block, Trey Cash and Elizabeth Kazimir welcome Emily Martin, Economic Development Manager with Duke Energy and Vice Chair of the NCEDA Emerging Executives Committee. Emily shares her journey into economic development, her recent transition from the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development to Duke Energy, and her perspective on the next generation of economic development professionals. The conversation explores the unique opportunities and challenges facing rural communities, the importance of mentorship and professional development, and why economic development is about much more than jobs and investment numbers. From workforce and housing to community partnerships and quality of life, Emily reminds us that the real impact of economic development goes far beyond the numbers on a scoreboard. Plus, Emily shares lessons from her career, advice for emerging professionals, and why investing in people is one of the most important things we can do for the future of our communities.

October 12, 2026Episode 355 min

Crystal Morphis & Steve Yost, NCEDA Foundation

On this episode of Developing the Block, Trey and Elizabeth welcome Crystal Morphis, Chair of the NCEDA Foundation, and Steve Yost, Vice Chair of the NCEDA Foundation, for the podcast’s first two guest conversation. Crystal and Steve share the purpose of the NCEDA Foundation, why it matters to the economic development profession, and how scholarships, professional development, and programs like Career Trek help support the next generation of economic developers. They also discuss the importance of investing in people, getting involved through NCEDA, and supporting the Foundation’s silent auction fundraiser at the NCEDA Fall Conference in Asheville. Plus, Steve shares a classic economic development war story involving an international client visit during hurricane season, because in this profession, sometimes the best lessons come when the plan goes sideways.

September 28, 2026Episode 247 min

Kelly Bowers, Timmons Group & Hertford County

In this episode, Elizabeth and Trey sit down with Kelly Bowers, NCCED, Economic Development Director for Hertford County and Economic Development Specialist with Timmons Group. Kelly shares how a passion for real estate, revitalization, and problem solving grew into a career in economic development. With experience in rural communities, smart growth, agriculture, industry, tourism, and community development, Kelly brings a thoughtful perspective on what it takes to connect the dots and help places move forward. The conversation covers her work in Hertford County, her role with Timmons Group, and the importance of building stronger communities by understanding both the people and the opportunities in front of them. It is a great conversation about rural economic development, creative thinking, partnerships, and the kind of work that makes communities better. Listen now on all major podcast apps and watch on the NCEDA YouTube channel.

September 14, 2026Episode 155 min

Walt Sprouse

We are back. After a long hiatus, Developing the Block returns for Season 3 with a new name, a fresh start, and a very special first guest. In this episode, Elizabeth and Trey welcome Walt Sprouse, a longtime economic development leader, mentor, and friend. Walt talks about his long history with Elizabeth, including knowing her since she was a child, and shares stories from a career spent helping communities grow, compete, and win major projects. Walt’s experience stretches across decades of economic development work, from leading Randolph County Economic Development Corporation to serving as Executive Director of the Augusta Economic Development Authority, where his work helped bring more than $5.7 billion in new and expanded investment and more than 56,000 jobs. He has also served as a past president of the North Carolina Economic Developers Association and received Lifetime Achievement recognition from NCEDA. It is a conversation about projects, people, mentorship, and the relationships that make this profession special. Please like, subscribe, and share Developing the Block.

September 15, 2025Episode 1051 min

Nate Groover, Town of Garner

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.

March 24, 2025Episode 91 hr 7 min

Nathan Huret, Catawba County EDC

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.

February 17, 2025Episode 847 min

Ben Kinney, Business North Carolina

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.

February 3, 2025Episode 753 min

Joe Melvin, North Carolina's Southeast

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!

December 2, 2024Episode 61 hr 1 min

Anna Walker, North Carolina's Electric Cooperatives

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!

November 18, 2024Episode 548 min

Natalie Hawkins, Moore County Economic Development Partnership

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!

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