Rural Ruckus

In this episode of Rural Ruckus, host John Monson is joined by James Hanke from Community Economic Development Associates (CEDA) to explore what it takes to bring lasting, strategic impact to small towns across the Midwest.
From economic development strategies to community engagement and entrepreneurial growth, James shares stories from the field—offering practical insight into how rural towns can identify their assets and act with purpose. Whether it’s a town of 500 or 5,000, CEDA’s model helps communities create their own path to progress.
John and James also discuss:
  • The mission and structure of CEDA
  • The value of embedding development professionals within communities
  • Real-world rural success stories driven by local leadership
  • How partnerships with cities, counties, and nonprofits are shaping the future
  • And yes... a bit of Packers vs. Vikings banter
🔑 Key Quotes:
“What I love about CEDA is that we walk with communities—not ahead of them, not behind them.” – James Hanke“Rural development isn’t about telling people what to do. It’s about uncovering what they care about—and moving from there.” – James Hanke“It’s amazing what happens when small towns stop waiting and start acting.” – John Monson
📌 Resources Mentioned:
👀 Coming Up Next:
Stay tuned for upcoming conversations with rural innovators, local leaders, and changemakers working to move small towns forward—with heart, strategy, and a little ruckus.

What is Rural Ruckus?

Rural Ruckus is a podcast hosted by John Monson that delves into the challenges, opportunities, and stories shaping rural America. With a deep passion for agriculture and small-town life, John explores what’s happening on Main Streets across the country—from housing and daycare to labor shortages and economic development. Each episode sparks thoughtful conversation about how rural communities can shift from competition to collaboration and thrive in a changing world. Tune in to better understand the heartbeat of rural America—and why it matters.