For Jonathan Mason, economic development isn’t just a career—it’s personal. His journey started at 10 years old, working in his father’s engineering firm, where he saw firsthand how small businesses aren’t just about profit, but about stability, opportunity, and community impact. When his father passed away, the family business shut down due to a lack of succession planning, a loss that shaped his perspective on the critical intersection of business ownership, policy, and economic mobility.

Jonathan went on to build a career spanning finance, startups, and government consulting, working with top financial institutions, accelerator programs, and local governments. He’s advised on economic development strategies, small business transitions, and workforce planning, helping entrepreneurs and policymakers navigate complex systems. Through The Jentry Podcast, he brings those insights to a wider audience—breaking down how government policies impact business, investment, and community growth. His mission? To ensure that economic opportunity isn’t just for insiders but for everyone invested in their community’s future.