The Development Group Podcast

This week, the podcast features a conversation with Krystin, Amy, and Sarah as they reflect on their experience at the Florida Economic Development Council (FEDC) Conference. They share key takeaways from the event, discuss emerging trends and challenges facing economic development professionals, and highlight the ideas and strategies that generated the most excitement among attendees. The convers...

This week, the podcast features a conversation with Todd Williams on the importance of fostering a strong workplace culture and building a vibrant, connected community within organizations. Todd shares insights on what it takes to create an environment where people feel valued, engaged, and motivated to contribute, along with practical approaches to strengthening team dynamics and leadership. The...

This week, the podcast features Krystin and Christen Johnson discussing the vital role healthcare plays in the Hardee County community and the impact of strong local medical services on families and quality of life. They highlight the great work being done at the hospital, the progress being made to serve residents more effectively, and why continued investment in healthcare matters for the county...

This week, the podcast features Krystin and Amy sitting down with Hardee County Commissioner Don Chancey to talk about his experience serving on the Board of County Commissioners and what lies ahead for the community. They discuss the realities of local leadership, the responsibility of balancing growth with preserving Hardee County’s character, and how decisions made at the county level directly...

This week, the podcast features Krystin, Amy, and Sarah reflecting on their recent trip to Tallahassee and why maintaining a strong presence at the state capitol matters for rural Florida. They talk through what it means to show up for Hardee County, how relationships with lawmakers are built, and why advocacy can’t be an afterthought for small and rural communities. Midway through the episode, th...

This is the second and final part of the 2025 end-of-year recap podcast with Krystin, Amy, and Sarah Evers. They finish their conversation on what they've accomplished over the past year, highlight the milestones that shaped 2025, and reflect on the momentum the community has built.

This week, the podcast welcomes Krystin, Amy, and Sarah Evers for Part 1 of our 2025 end-of-year recap. Together, they walk through what’s been accomplished over the past year, highlight the milestones that shaped 2025, and reflect on the momentum the community has built. They also offer an early look at what’s in store for the year ahead, from projects already underway to the priorities guiding t...

This week, the podcast welcomes Chris Idsardi, the new chair of the Industrial Development Authority. Chris breaks down the mission of the IDA, what his work means for Hardee County, and the opportunities he sees on the horizon. Joined by Krystin and Amy, he offers a look at several exciting projects in the pipeline, shares his perspective on the county’s future, and talks through how the IDA is p...

This week, the podcast welcomes Sarah Evers, the new CEO of The Development Group. In her first conversation since stepping into the role, Sarah shares her vision for Hardee County’s future and outlines her 90-day plan to hit the ground running. Together, she and Krystin discuss her priorities for growth, the importance of collaboration, and how she plans to build on the foundation laid by outgoin...

This week, the podcast reflects on the retirement of Denise Grimsley, CEO of The Development Group, and her years of leadership in Hardee County. Together, Krystin and Denise look back on the milestones of her tenure, the changes that have shaped the county, and the moments that defined her work. They also look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that will guide Hardee County’s next chapter....

This week, Krystin is joined by Amy Tubbs, Sarah Evers, and Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves for a thoughtful look at building stronger communities and revitalizing our downtowns. Together, they reflect on what makes a city thrive, the challenges and successes of community growth, and the moments that have defined their work. They also look ahead to the opportunities and innovations that could transfor...

This week, Krystin is joined by Amy Tubbs, Dr. Sylvia Collins, and Merilyn Strickland for a thoughtful look at education in Hardee County: past, present, and future. Together, they reflect on how local schools have evolved, the challenges and successes along the way, and the moments that have left a lasting impact. They also look ahead to the opportunities and innovations that could shape the next...

This week, Krystin is joined by Lisette Jimenez, a project manager breaking barriers in the construction industry right here in Hardee County. Krystin and Lisette dive into what it’s like to be a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, the challenges she’s faced, and the progress being made toward greater inclusion in the trades. They also explore the vital role women play in shaping the fu...

This week, Krystin is joined by Emily Cockerham, the current intern at The Development Group and a passionate voice for the next generation of leaders. Together, they talk about the importance of connecting with younger residents, the future career paths available in communities like Hardee County, and how young people can make a real difference in their hometowns. From internships to civic engage...

This week, Krystin is joined by Lauren and Laina Canary, the mother-daughter duo behind the Donnie Canary Foundation and passionate champions for Hardee County. Krystin, Lauren, and Laina dive into the heart of their philanthropic mission—supporting education, expanding opportunity, and honoring legacy through local investment. They discuss how the foundation began, the importance of giving back t...

This week, Krystin is joined by Dr. Teresa Crawford, a dedicated advocate for education in Hardee County. Krystin and Dr. Crawford dive into the challenges and opportunities facing local schools, the importance of community involvement in student success, and how educational leadership shapes the future of the region. From classroom innovation to district-wide priorities, they explore what it take...

This week, Krystin is joined by Michael Kelly, publisher and owner of the Herald Advocate Newspaper. Krystin and Michael talk about the importance of still having a print newspaper in the community as well as some interesting insights into how the news in the community gets out. Tune in for an exciting look into a leader in the Hardee county community.

This week, Krystin is joined by Peter Kageyama, author and community engagement expert. Krystin and Peter dive into the idea of writing “love notes” to your city—small, creative acts that foster pride, connection, and joy in your community. Peter shares powerful insights on how communities can build a stronger, more positive identity by embracing their quirks, celebrating local creativity, and enc...

This week, Krystin is joined by Sonja Bennett, Hardee County Superintendent of Schools. Krystin and Sonja discuss education and schooling in Hardee county. Sonja has some amazing insight into education and the future of Hardee County that she shares with our listeners this week!

This week, Krystin is joined by Fred Hawkins, President of South Florida State College. Krystin and President Hawkins discuss economic development and how it relates to the education system in Florida. President Hawkins has some very interesting insight into education and the future of Hardee County.

This is part 3 of 3 from Episode 12. This week, Krystin is joined by Sarah Evers, COO of The Development Group, and Denise Grimsley, CEO of The Development Group. They finish up this episode by talking about their favorite projects going on at The Development Group and how they are excited for the future!

This is part 2 of 3 from Episode 12. This week, Krystin is joined by Sarah Evers, COO of The Development Group, and Denise Grimsley, CEO of The Development Group. In this part, they go over the investment aspect of business at The Development Group.

This is part 1 of 3 from Episode 12. This week, Krystin is joined by Sarah Evers, COO of The Development Group, and Denise Grimsley, CEO of The Development Group. They begin the episode by talking about their vision of Hardee County...

This week, Krystin speaks with Kaylee Webb, member of the Hardee County Chamber of Commerce. They discuss current events in Hardee, business development, and career opportunities. 

This week, Krystin speaks with Thomas Trevino, CEO and President of Kinbro. They talk economic development along with some inspiring words of encouragement to get involved in your community.