Work with John
Bring practical rural expertise to your project.
John C. Shepard, AICP is available for selected consulting engagements, speaking invitations, podcast appearances, webinars, and conversations about rural planning and economic development. If you’re working on something worth doing in rural America, let’s talk.
What John does
Ways to work together.
Whether you need a speaker, a planning consultant, a podcast guest, or something else entirely — John brings the same practical, data-driven approach to every engagement.
Speaking and podcasts
Keynotes, conference sessions, panels, and podcast conversations on rural planning, economic development, and community resilience.
- Keynotes and conference sessions
- Panels and roundtables
- Podcast appearances
Webinars and virtual presentations
Online presentations, virtual panels, and remote training sessions for planning associations, government agencies, and professional organizations.
- Webinars and online workshops
- Virtual conference sessions
- Remote training and education
Planning and development consulting
Comprehensive planning, land use, economic development strategy, hazard mitigation, and implementation support for rural communities and local governments.
- Comprehensive plan development
- Economic development strategy
- Land use and zoning
- Hazard mitigation planning
- Renewable energy and infrastructure
- Downtown and community development
Writing and research
Policy analysis, planning research, and practical writing that connects data and planning theory with the realities facing rural communities and local leaders.
- Policy and planning research
- Community needs assessments
- Grant writing support
- Strategic communications
Something else in mind?
John’s experience spans nine domains of rural planning and development. If you have something specific in mind that doesn’t fit neatly into one of these categories — a workshop, a collaboration, an advisory role, or something entirely different — reach out. He’s open to the right opportunities.
Tell John about it →Is it a good fit?
John works best with communities and organizations that are ready to act.
Not every engagement is the right fit. Here’s a straightforward look at where John does his best work.
Rural and small-town governments
Counties, municipalities, and planning commissions in the Midwest, Great Plains, and Rocky Mountain West ready to make better decisions.
Planning conferences and associations
State and regional planning conferences, APA chapters, economic development organizations, and rural-focused associations looking for practical, experienced speakers.
Podcasts and media focused on rural America
Shows and publications covering rural planning, economic development, community resilience, energy, and the future of small-town America.
Organizations working on rural policy
Nonprofits, foundations, and research organizations focused on rural development, land use, infrastructure, and community resilience.
Get in touch
Tell John about your project.
Use the form below or send a direct email. John reads every message and responds to opportunities that are a good fit.