Podcast 188: Site Selectors Often Experience Your City First as Visitors with Tulsa's Renee McKenney

Integrating tourism with economic development = punching above your weight

2 Sep 2025 — 2 min read

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Renee McKenney, Senior Vice President of Tourism for the Tulsa Regional Chamber and President of Tulsa Regional Tourism. Renee shares how Tulsa has leveraged its unique history, Route 66 heritage, and creative culture to attract visitors, residents, and businesses. From hosting major sporting events and revitalizing Black Wall Street to promoting film, music, and culinary scenes, Tulsa is redefining itself as a vibrant destination. Renee also explains how integrating tourism with economic development under the chamber umbrella creates a powerful synergy that fuels placemaking, business attraction, and civic pride

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Integrate tourism and economic development--site selectors often experience your city first as visitors.
Identify and elevate authentic community assets (history, culture, sports, etc.).
Lean into storytelling; narratives like Route 66 or Black Wall Street resonate nationally.
Invest in placemaking that surprises and delights both locals and visitors.
Use large-scale events (sports, festivals, shows) as business attraction opportunities.
Partner with creative industries (film, music, arts) to build brand identity.
Capitalize on civic pride to mobilize communities around unique initiatives.
Focus on accessibility and vibe because livability drives both talent and business attraction.
Treat tourism as "importing money and exporting experiences."
Always be ready for your "prime time": community investments build toward big moments like centennials, championships, or global events.