DT #590 Next-Gen Leadership: How Young Professionals Are Shaping Small-Town Revivals

What does it mean to be a young leader in economic development today? In this episode, Develop This! contributing correspondent Joi Cuartero Austin sits down with Chandler Shook, Centerville, Iowa’s new Main Street & Economic Development Director, to explore the realities, opportunities, and challenges of leading in a small community. From his start as a city administrator to his current role championing Centerville’s revitalization, Chandler shares his insights on navigating leadership at a young age, building credibility, and turning limited resources into creative momentum. Together, they discuss how young professionals are reshaping the field, why patience and progress often go hand in hand, and how Main Street continues to serve as the heartbeat of community identity and pride. Main Street Amercia In this episode, you’ll learn: Chandler’s unconventional journey into public service and economic development The value and perspective young leaders bring to the profession—and the hurdles they face How smaller communities can leverage scarcity to spark innovation and collaboration Why “boomerang” residents are vital to sustaining local leadership How Main Street captures the true soul of a community What the next chapter of small-town economic development might look like