Golden LEAF Critical Conversations

Golden LEAF Critical Conversations: Partnerships for Rural Economic Growth

Economic development in rural communities rarely happens because of the work of one organization. Long before a company announces plans to locate or expand, local, region

Golden LEAF Critical Conversations: Preparing the Next Generation of Agricultural Workers

Agriculture is a major part of North Carolina's economy, but the skills needed to succeed in the industry are changing. Preparing the next generation of agricultural work

Earn While You Learn: Apprenticeships Build North Carolina's Workforce Pipeline

Apprenticeships are helping North Carolina employers build the skilled workforce they need while giving students an opportunity to earn a paycheck, gain hands-on experien

Housing as Economic Development

Housing has become one of the most significant challenges facing communities across North Carolina. As employers expand their operations and the state's population contin

The Future of Farmland in North Carolina

The latest episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations with President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton explores one of the most significant challenges facing

Reimagining rural education through Golden LEAF Schools

The latest episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations with President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton explores how North Carolina rural middle schools partic

How ready sites give economic developers a strategic edge

The latest episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations with Scott T. Hamilton, the Foundation's President and CEO, brings together three leaders driving economic develo

Plant Sciences Initiative Growing the Future of North Carolina Agriculture

The latest episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations with Scott Hamilton features three voices shaping the future of North Carolina agriculture. They answer the quest

More Than a Scholarship: Golden LEAF Scholarship Pathway From Classroom to Career

What happens when opportunity meets rural community pride? In this episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations, host Scott T. Hamilton talks with a current Golden LEAF

North Carolina's Economy and National Trends: 2025 Review, 2026 Outlook

In this first podcast episode, Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton is joined by two leading economic voices: Tom Barkin, President and CEO of