Dreamers, Drivers, Doers
Want to discover the personalities, leaders, and voices who are making things happen and making a difference in our region? Welcome to Dreamers, Drivers, and Doers, where Greater Akron Chamber CEO and President Steve Millard engages in conversations with business owners, influencers, and government officials to discover what makes a group of people come together, the possibilities on a local and regional level, and the potential of an area that pulls together. Fascinating journeys, strong opinions, unique perspectives, and a behind-the-scenes look at some of the business and legislative initiatives that are the heartbeat of our community.
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Ep. 72 – Apple Growth Partners Merger: More Resources, Happier Clients
05/07/2024
Ep. 72 – Apple Growth Partners Merger: More Resources, Happier Clients
Headquartered in Akron, Apple Growth Partners (AGP) is an accounting and business advisory firm thatoffers a fullrange of services, primarily to privately held small and mid-size businesses. In this episode, Chairman Chuck Mullen sits down with Steve Millard to discuss how in our ever-changing world, complete with AI other modern technologies ,clients are demanding more... as they should. Chuck explains how he never wants to have to tell a client "no". If he doesn't have an answer or a solution in the present moment, he either makes the effort to find one or points them in the direction of someone who does. And that leads into AGP's recent announcement of their merger with Eide Bailly, a top 25 CPA and consulting firm based in Fargo, ND. With this merger, Chuck explains the wealthof new resources that will be available to clients, as well as opportunities and benefits for current employees.
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Ep. 71 - Small Roots, Large Growth – Expanding a Small Business Outside of our Region
04/24/2024
Ep. 71 - Small Roots, Large Growth – Expanding a Small Business Outside of our Region
Expanding a Small Business Outside of our RegionLeppo Rents was started nearly 80 years ago by Roy and Stella Leppo as a small Oliver Farm Equipmentdealer. A few decades later, a shift in focus to construction equipment rentals propelled the business intoyears of dynamic growth and expansion. Today, the company has expanded to 10 locations across threestates, while continually altering their business model to boot. In this episode, CFO and In-House LegalCounselor Erin Leppo Palmer sits down with Steve Millard to discuss the business’ acceptance of changein culture and operations, and how to be unique in an industry while doing what is best for the customer.Erin also discusses her experience as a female CFO, the importance of board service, and the WNLI BoardLeadership Initiative
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Ep. 70 - The People and Work Behind the Polymer Industry Cluster
04/23/2024
Ep. 70 - The People and Work Behind the Polymer Industry Cluster
If you follow the Greater Akron Chamber or the Akron business community in general, you may have heardof the Polymer Industry Cluster. Akron has deep rootsin rubber and material science, and today, the regionhas hundreds of businesses, manufacturing plants, and research institutions focused on polymer-basedproduction and sustainability efforts. This led to Greater Akron being designated as a Sustainable PolymersTech Hub by the U.S. Economic Development Administration in October 2023, and a number of fundingand economic opportunities being presented to the region. In this episode, Brian Anderson, Vice Presidentof the Polymer Industry Cluster, sits down with Steve Millard to discuss how Greater Akron got to this pointand the opportunity for economic development it presents for the region.
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Ep. 69 - Crisis Intervention through the Victim Assistance Program
04/16/2024
Ep. 69 - Crisis Intervention through the Victim Assistance Program
Each year, thousands of Summit County individuals are victims of crisis, violence, and tragedy, and manyare unprepared and unequipped to deal with the fallout. Luckily, Summit County has the Victim AssistanceProgram (VAP), a 501(c)(3) non-profit unattached to law enforcement and the court system that offersnonjudgemental crisis intervention and emotional support to victims. In this episode, Steve Millard sits downwith VAP President and CEO Leanne Graham to talk about the organizations 24-hour assistance hotlineand how business and organizations can utilize VAP when dealing with tragedy in the workplace.
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Ep. 68 - Managing Risk in Business
03/27/2024
Ep. 68 - Managing Risk in Business
Nothing is certain in life and in business. In this episode of the Dreamers, Drivers, Doers podcast, SteveMillard sits down with Schauer Group President and CEO Joe Schauer to talk about theintricacies ofcommercial insurance and risk management, and the impact Schauer Group has made in Akron, Cantonand Cleveland. The pair also discuss culture in the workplace, internship programs, and how to attract newtalent
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Ep. 67 - The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse and its Impact on Greater Akron
03/27/2024
Ep. 67 - The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse and its Impact on Greater Akron
Northeast Ohio is on the verge of a historic event-the first total solar eclipse since 1806 is happening onApril 8, and Greater Akron sits in the 115-milewide "path of totality" where the eclipse is viewable. Anothertotal solar eclipse won't happen until 2099, making it a must-see event for people across the country.Hundreds of thousands of guests are expected in Greater Akron for the eclipse, and with that comes botheconomic opportunities and safety concerns for our region. On this episode, Steve Millard sits down withGregg Mervis, President and CEO of the Akron/Summit Convention and Visitors Bureau, and ThomasSmoot, Director of the Summit County Emergency Management Agency to discuss both.
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Ep. 66 - Commercial Real Estate Trends in Relation to Economic Development
03/27/2024
Ep. 66 - Commercial Real Estate Trends in Relation to Economic Development
Since the pandemic, businesses have been struggling to figure out the hybrid work environment and how it relates to their commercial spaces. As may be obvious, many businesses have decided to scale down their properties and invest more in other quality of life improvements for their employees, essentially doing more with less. Meanwhile, unused office spaces are being converted to residential, and mixed-used developments are becoming more and more popular in suburban communities. Commercial real estate is constantly changing due to issues with lending and construction prices, but that doesn't mean there aren't opportunities to develop in downtown Akron that could greatly affect the economy. In this episode, Steve Millard explores real estate trends and downtown revitalization with Warren Blazy III, Senior Vice President of CBRE, the Northeast Ohio market leader in commercial real estate.
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Ep. 65 - Preserving and Renovating a Historic Piece of Greater Akron
03/27/2024
Ep. 65 - Preserving and Renovating a Historic Piece of Greater Akron
Offering a unique historic experience does numbers in attaching citizens to their community andencouraging outsiders to visit. Greater Akron is chock full of attractionslike this, and the Cuyahoga ValleyScenic Railroad (CVSR) is one that continues to preserve the past while constantly changing andimproving. From the North Pole Adventure to Dinner on the Train, Steve Millard explores how Presidentand CEO Joe Mazur and the team at CVSR have turned the nonprofit into a bastion of shared history, andopened up the experience to history buffs, couples, families, children, and businesses through their variedevents and rides. Joe also dives into the prospect of expanding therail line further north, attracting moreresidents from the Cleveland area
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Ep. 64 - Fighting the Stigma and Managing a Wide Range of Services at Planned Parenthood
03/27/2024
Ep. 64 - Fighting the Stigma and Managing a Wide Range of Services at Planned Parenthood
There's often more to an organization than initially meets the eye. Many of them offer services and products that the public may not even be aware of, making it of utmost importance to market these services to their communities. Steve Millard sits down with Erica Wilson-Domer, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio, to discuss how the organization provides and markets a wide array of healthcare services to communities, making it much more than what is often characterizes as an "abortion clinic." Erica alsoshares her favorite Stark County gem for listeners to check out!
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Ep. 63 - Evolving Business to Attract New Markets
03/27/2024
Ep. 63 - Evolving Business to Attract New Markets
Malleability is an important quality for any business to display-it's not often that you'll find a successfulbusiness that says no to change. Oftentimes, that need for changecomes from adversity or strife, something we've recently seen on a large scale as businesses exited the Covid pandemic with vastly different operations, goals, and functions, as well as a better understanding of their markets. On this week’sepisode, Steve Millard sits down with MGM Northfield Park executives Yanina De Vargas, VP of Finance, and Sam Alonso, Director of National Sales, to talk about how they grew their facility from a racino into an entertainment complex boasting restaurants, merchandise stores, concerts and more to attract a younger demographic. The pair also discusses community engagement, employee volunteering programs, and MGM Northfield's Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program.
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Ep. 62 - The Importance of Exit Strategies in Business
03/27/2024
Ep. 62 - The Importance of Exit Strategies in Business
Interested in buying a business but unsure where to start? Or, are you a business owner without a clear exit strategy in place? While it seems counterintuitive to open a business and think about how you leave the business at the same time, it's important for business owners to be prepared when the unexpected happens. Steve Millard explores the world of business mergers and acquisitions, selling, and franchises, and learns how Brian Adolph, Investment Banker at Transworld, and Jessica Fialkovich, Founder andPresident of Exit Factor, work together to help businesses prepare for the unexpected. Jessica also sharesinsights from her book, “Getting the Most for Selling your Business”, and the need for business owners toproactively ready themselves for exit.
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Ep. 61 - How Digital Solutions are Empowering Employees and Improving Efficiency in Business
03/27/2024
Ep. 61 - How Digital Solutions are Empowering Employees and Improving Efficiency in Business
Investing in new business processes, especially those using technology, is intimidating to many business owners and leaders, especially in the world of AI. Rest assured, the team of CliftonLarsonAllen LLP has you covered. What started as a primarily accounting-focused business has evolved into a team of trusted advisors helping their clients in all aspects of their business, from accounting to operations to digital technology. On this weeks episode, Steve Millard sits down with Dave Supelak, Principal and Noel Hopkins, Digital Growth Director, to talk about the evolution of digital technology and how they're helping business increase their efficiency, and empower and elevate their employees, through automation and other digital solutions, and workforce trends in their business.
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Ep. 60 - Shopping Small and Supporting Local Artists in Greater Akron
03/27/2024
Ep. 60 - Shopping Small and Supporting Local Artists in Greater Akron
There’s never a wrong time to shop small, as said by Justin Lepley, Director of Northside Marketplace,Founder of Lepley & Co. and Solidago Business Advisors. And he’s not wrong. As we head into the holidayshopping season, Steve Millard sits down with Justin and Heather Meeker, Executive Director at SummitArtspace, to talk about Small Business Saturday, Artists Sunday, and the new Akron Bazaar, and how thecommunity supports local entrepreneurs and artists beyond the holidays. Plus, learn how you can earnpoints–or “blimps”–back on purchases at local participating businesses through the Akronite app(available on the App Store and Google Play!)
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Ep. 59 - A Glimpse at the 2024 Economic Forecast
03/27/2024
Ep. 59 - A Glimpse at the 2024 Economic Forecast
The 2024 economic forecast is “cautiously optimistic” as told by panelists Brian Pietrangelo, ManagingDirector of Investment Strategy at Key Private Bank, and Jacob Duritsky,Vice President, Strategy,Research and Talent at Team NEO, during the Greater Akron Chamber’s annual Economic Outlook eventon November 3, 2023. Following the event, Steve Millard sat down with these experts to recap theconversation on economic trends andfactors for the year ahead, including inflation, workforce, financialmarkets, and consumer spending. Tune in to hear what Brian and Jacob recommend business owners tokeep in mind as they look ahead to 2024 and beyond, plus their favorite spots in Northeast Ohio! 2024 Economic Outlook presentation: Jacob Duritsky bio: Brian Pietrangelo bio:
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Ep. 55 - Law and Leadership with Amanda Leffler
03/27/2024
Ep. 55 - Law and Leadership with Amanda Leffler
Thinking through a problem and coming up with a solution is second nature to Amanda Leffler, ManagingPartner of Shumaker's recently-established Akron office. Amanda sits down with Steve Millard to talk abouther role as a connector within the legal realm, how Shumaker offers a variety of services for businesses of all sizes, and their unwavering commitment to ensure the best outcome for their clients. Tune in to learn more about Amanda’s professional journey and her noteworthy contributions outside of law in the GreaterAkron community.
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Ep. 56 - A Conversation on Fractional HR Services with Chrissy Myers
03/27/2024
Ep. 56 - A Conversation on Fractional HR Services with Chrissy Myers
Becoming a leader was always in the cards for Chrissy Myers, but after a run of undesirable jobs as ayoung adult while working for her dad, she was adamant about not returning to work for the familybusiness. You can probably guess where this story goes, but what you don’t know is the how: HOW shedoubled her business in size and opened a fractional HR entity; and HOWher work serves smallbusinesses; and HOW she is making an impact on the Greater Akron business community and beyond. Inthis episode, the CEO of AUI/Clarity HR also dives into workplace trends, culture, and well-being, and herrole outside the office asco-captain of “Team Awesomesauce.” Stick around to hear Chrissy’s “AkronJams” and details on the upcoming launch of her first book.
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Ep. 58 - Reimagining Public Transit in Summit County
03/27/2024
Ep. 58 - Reimagining Public Transit in Summit County
Did you know that every $1 invested in public transportation generates $5 in economic returns? On thisweek’s episode, Steve Millard chats with METRO RTA CEO Dawn Distler and ValerieShea, Director ofPlanning and Strategic Development, about the role public transit plays to drive and support economicdevelopment, how the transit agency’s redesigned bus network that launched in June 2023 increasedaccess to jobs in Summit County by 53%through various mobility options, and the future of transit inSummit County (and beyond!). Both guests share their “Akron Jams” and how you can access them from a bus route!
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Ep. 57 - Exploring the Evolution of Retail with Celeste Brown
03/27/2024
Ep. 57 - Exploring the Evolution of Retail with Celeste Brown
Celeste Brown is a go-getter–when she sees a problem, she comes up with a solution from the lenseofan entrepreneur. On this episode, Celeste shares the “aha moment” behind the launch of her businessDefining Enterprises, LLC., how one email led to the placement of two automated retail machines in theAkron-Canton Airport, and the future of retail with convenient and contactless shopping methods.
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Ep. 54 - Developing Talent at a Young Age Through College & Career Academies
03/27/2024
Ep. 54 - Developing Talent at a Young Age Through College & Career Academies
Exposing students to experiences beyond the classroom in their early years is crucial–not only for personal development but also to ensure continuous growth of the local talent pool. On this episode, Marcie Ebright, Director of the College & Career Academies of Akron Public Schools, and Jobs for Ohio Graduates Executive Director, Chris Canova, talks about this transformative education model that impacts students ofall ages, from PreK to 12th grade, and how their partnership with helps position students for success with career exploration and job exposure opportunities.
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Ep. 53 - Navigating the Venture Capital Landscape with Bill Manby
03/27/2024
Ep. 53 - Navigating the Venture Capital Landscape with Bill Manby
While venture capital is historically concentrated in the West Coast, experts have witnessed a gradual shift in investments in the Midwest and Ohio specifically. Plus, with startup support from Bounce Innovation Huband Akron's position as Rubber Capital of the World, Greater Akron and Northeast Ohio has potential to be a premier startup hub in the Midwest. Join Steve Millard and Bill Manby, Founding and Managing Partner ofInterstate Fusion Ventures, on a journey through the dynamic world of venture capital and what needs tohappen in the next 5-7 years for venture capital to grow and thrive in the region.
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Ep. 52 - Impacting the Community Beyond Fundraising
03/27/2024
Ep. 52 - Impacting the Community Beyond Fundraising
United Way's evolution from a traditional fundraising organization to a community impact-driven entity reflects the changing landscape in the nonprofit sector, yet there is still a lack of awareness around the dynamic work that United Way of Summit & Medina leads and supports. President and CEO Jim Mullendives into how United Way collaborates with corporate, philanthropic, and civic leaders to drive change while staying true to its primary focus of supporting the foundational needs that enable individuals to not just survive, but thrive. Jim also has three "Akron Jams" you don't want to miss!
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Ep. 51 - Addressing the Opioid Epidemic with CHC Addiction Services
03/27/2024
Ep. 51 - Addressing the Opioid Epidemic with CHC Addiction Services
On August 8, 2023, Summit County Public Health issued a public health alert following seven suspected overdose deaths in one weekend and a steady increase in overdose-related Emergency Department visits over the last month. Leaders from CHC Addiction Services sit down with Steve Millard to talk about the dangers facing the community, how employers are responding and the resources available to companies to support their employees, and the behind-the-scenes work CHC does to support individuals struggling with addiction.
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Ep. 50 - Revitalizing Kenmore with Tina Boyes
03/27/2024
Ep. 50 - Revitalizing Kenmore with Tina Boyes
Did you know that Kenmore is the largest business neighborhood district and the second-largest neighborhood in Akron? For the past five years, Tina Boyes, a fifth-generation Kenmore resident who formerly led the Kenmore Neighborhood Alliance, has poured her heart and soul into the revitalization of Kenmore Boulevard. In this episode, Tina shares how she helped reignite Kenmore as the place for community members to convene and a destination spot for visitors and why she believes in the power of community development work.
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Ep. 49 - How You Can Help ‘Keep Akron Beautiful’
03/27/2024
Ep. 49 - How You Can Help ‘Keep Akron Beautiful’
A clean and beautiful community instills a sense of pride and ownership among its residents, and when residents have that sense of pride, they tend to be more responsible and respectful of personal and public spaces. Jacqui Ricchiuti, CEO of Keep Akron Beautiful, and Akron Police Officer Aaron Brown dive into the details of their partnership, the ongoing challenges they face, their commitment to improving the beautification of Akron, and how the community can get involved to keep Akron beautiful.
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Ep. 48 - Trading Guitar Strings for Food Bank Leadership
03/27/2024
Ep. 48 - Trading Guitar Strings for Food Bank Leadership
If you were to ask college Dan Flowers, who was strumming his guitar at local gigs and teaching guitar lessons, if he’d be leading, let alone working, at a food bank, he probably would have laughed. But like many leaders featured on this podcast, the role seeks you out when you least expect it. In this episode, Dan takes listeners on a motivational and inspiring journey as he dives deep into day-to-day operations at the Foodbank, what’s on the horizon as part of their 5-year strategic plan, and gives a glimpse of personal obstacles he’s faced throughout his career.
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Ep. 47 - Protecting Your Data and Recycling Old Electronics
03/27/2024
Ep. 47 - Protecting Your Data and Recycling Old Electronics
What really happens when your old computer is recycled and how is your data protected? Jeff Detkuliak,Director of Operations for Ohio at ARCOA, talks about responsible recycling, compliance with stringent data security norms, and navigating the complex landscape of data privacy laws. Whether you’re running a small business or an enterprise, Jeff and his team at ARCOA provide convenient options for electronic disposal and ensures that retired hardware is processed sustainably and responsibly.
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Ep. 45 - Ground-Up Construction Services with Julie Brandle
03/27/2024
Ep. 45 - Ground-Up Construction Services with Julie Brandle
As the President and co-founder of Metis Construction Services, Julie Brandle did not set out to become a part of the building industry. Finding her path in Real Estate sales, it was then she caught the bug for new home construction. Enduring the recession of 2007, she changed her focus to start a business in property management which eventually grew into a leading provider of renovation and ground-up construction services. Steve and Julie also discuss taking risks in challenging times.
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Ep. 46 - What is Heart to Heart Leadership? with Jeremy Lile
03/27/2024
Ep. 46 - What is Heart to Heart Leadership? with Jeremy Lile
Jeremy Lile grew up with entrepreneurial parents who started a fundraising business in their basement. His path took a turn when he was called to pastoral ministry, yet he also had that entrepreneurial mindset and started a nonprofit in West Akron. Fast forward to the present day, Jeremy is the Executive Director of Heart to Heart Leadership, engaging with community partners through a series of programming and outreach efforts to cultivate the next generation of leaders.
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Ep. 44 - A Deep Dive into Stark State College’s Mission with Dr. Para Jones
03/27/2024
Ep. 44 - A Deep Dive into Stark State College’s Mission with Dr. Para Jones
In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, and Doers, Steve Millard engages in a conversation with Dr. Para Jones, the President of Stark State College. Hailing from the Akron-Canton area, Dr. Jones has been at the forefront of education and career planning in the region, emphasizing the significance of the college's mission: catering to the needs of students, employers, and the community.
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Ep. 43 - Inspiring Community Philanthropy with John Petures
03/27/2024
Ep. 43 - Inspiring Community Philanthropy with John Petures
John Petures, serving as the President and CEO of the Akron Community Foundation, is fortunate to witness the remarkable endeavors taking place in our area on a daily basis. In a conversation with Steve Millard, John delves into his career, which has spanned from grassroots public service to nonprofit philanthropy.
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