Crafting the Future: Bruce Katz on Urban Innovation and Northwest Arkansas's Potential

I am Northwest Arkansas

About the Show:

"Cities are the vanguard of problem-solving in the modern world."

• Bruce Katz

About the Guest:

Bruce Katz, a renowned urban policy expert and the founding director of the Nowak Metro Finance Lab at Drexel University, joins us to share his deep insights on the transformative power of cities. With a rich background that includes advising urban leaders globally and authoring the pivotal book "The New Localism," Bruce brings a wealth of knowledge on how cities can flourish amidst the challenges of our time.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Bruce Katz at Gorog X Studio in Bentonville, Arkansas, to explore the concept of "new localism" and how cities are becoming the epicenter of innovation and growth. They delve into the pressing issue of affordable housing, the reshoring of American manufacturing, and the unique opportunities that Northwest Arkansas presents as a rapidly growing region.

Bruce shares his experiences working with urban leaders, the lessons learned from cities like Pittsburgh and Copenhagen, and the importance of local collaboration in addressing housing, transportation, and economic development. He emphasizes the need for cities to act as economies, leveraging their unique assets to create inclusive and sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Bruce Katz illuminates the role of cities as engines of problem-solving and innovation, particularly in times of national discord.
• The discussion sheds light on the critical nature of affordable housing and the potential of initiatives like groundwork to address this challenge in Northwest Arkansas.
• Bruce's expertise underscores the significance of local governments, businesses, and citizens understanding and embracing the long game for sustainable development.
• The conversation highlights the power of collaborative ecosystems in driving progress and the transformative impact of universities and industry leaders working in tandem.
• Listeners are encouraged to rethink the role of federal and state governments, viewing them as supporters of local economies rather than top-down decision-makers.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show*

Email Bruce Katz

Website Drexel University

Drexel University on Facebook

Sign up for The New Localism Newsletter here.

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.

This episode is sponsored by*

Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

Try ONBoardNWA.com Today!

*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

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Mentioned in this episode:

Winetopia 2024 Event

Join us for our annual Winetopia event and experience the best of what our NWA Community has to offer! We are proud to feature incredible top-tier wine, local craft beer, top-shelf bourbon, AND a variety of other spirits from our favorite local distilleries. Enjoy delicious food and desserts from northwest Arkansas's best spots while perusing our amazing silent auction items. When you buy a ticket, you will have access to it all! Don't forget about our famous wine toss with Carny in the Corner and DJ Shortfuze will be spinning smooth tracks all night long! It is a night that you won't want to miss! Winetopia 2024 Date: Friday, October 4th, 2024 Time: 7-10pm Place: Stone Chapel

NWA Council Commercials Groundwork (revised)

Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"

ONBoardNWA.com

Looking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.