Episode 3 – Shared Ownership, Shared Prosperity: Lessons from Saint Paul

Episode Summary

In this compelling episode of Live with Living Cities, CEO Joe Scantlebury is joined by Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter for a candid conversation on the future of local governance through the lens of shared ownership and solidarity economy strategies. Recorded live at the City of Saint Paul’s Office of Financial Empowerment conference, the episode offers an inside look at how Saint Paul is embracing innovative, community-driven approaches to build an economy rooted in equity, inclusion, and collective prosperity.

Mayor Carter shares real-world insights from his administration’s work within the Closing the Gaps Network, highlighting both the challenges and breakthroughs of implementing systems-level change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how cities can lead the way in rewriting economic rules to serve all residents—especially those historically left behind.

Key Topics Discussed

• The Evolution of Living Cities’ Mission: Joe Scantlebury explains how Living Cities shifted from a focus on physical infrastructure to addressing the deeper systems that shape opportunity and participation in economic life.
• St. Paul’s Vision for Shared Ownership: Mayor Melvin Carter outlines how St. Paul is creating a model of collaborative governance rooted in shared responsibility and community ownership.
  
• Redefining Inclusion and Opportunity: A discussion about expanding access to decision-making power, economic tools, and ownership as critical pathways to broader, more inclusive prosperity.
  
• Challenging Zero-Sum Thinking: A reframing of economic development as a generative process—one that creates new opportunities rather than redistributing scarcity.
  
• The Role of Philanthropy and Financial Institutions: A call for investors and funders to move from risk-avoidant gatekeeping to meaningful partnership with local innovators and community builders.
  
• Centering Community in Public Decision Making: Insights into how St. Paul is embedding public voice in hiring, budgeting, and city initiatives—including direct involvement from youth and working families.
  
• Investing in Human Potential: A look at how St. Paul’s programs, such as guaranteed income pilots, are designed to reduce barriers and give residents the flexibility to thrive.
  
• Building a Collective Future: A charge to organizations to expand who is included in “we”—ensuring lasting progress comes from shared values, participation, and trust.