The Small Nation Podcast
105 | Why Some Small Towns Thrive | The Small Nation Podcast Ft. Sarah Stevens Krupp & Renee Smith
What separates thriving small towns from communities that struggle to move forward?In this episode of The Small Nation Podcast, Jason Duff sits down with Sarah Stevens Krupp and Renee Smith, co-founders of Thrive Community Partners, to uncover the strategies that help rural communities secure grant funding, revitalize downtowns, support entrepreneurs, and build long-term economic momentum.Drawing from their success transforming Fostoria, Ohio—and now helping communities across the Midwest—they share practical lessons on community leadership, public-private partnerships, entrepreneurship, grant writing, capacity building, and sustainable economic development.Whether you're a mayor, chamber director, nonprofit leader, economic developer, elected official, or simply passionate about your hometown, this conversation is packed with actionable insights you can apply in your own community.If you're looking for practical ideas to strengthen your community, attract investment, support local businesses, and create lasting economic impact, this episode is a must-listen. Guest Links: Thrive Community Partners Sarah Stevens Krupp: Facebook LinkedIn Renee Smith: Facebook LinkedIn Small Nation: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok The Small Nation PodcastWatch on YouTube Friday Small Talk Newsletter Join the Conversation | Making Small Successful Facebook Group Follow Your Host: Jason Duff LinkedIn Facebook #SmallNationPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #SmallTowns #DowntownRevitalization #GrantWriting #CommunityDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #RuralDevelopment #Leadership #Ohio #PublicPrivatePartnerships #CommunityRevitalization #SmallBusiness #MainStreet #GrantFunding
