In this milestone 100th episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Greater Akron Chamber President Steve Millard sits down with Michael Considine, founder of Norka Beverage Company. As Norka marks its 100th anniversary, Michael shares insights into preserving a legacy brand while navigating the challenges of running a small family business. Steve and Michael discuss the incredible transformations happening in Akron, the power of community roots, and the resilience it takes to thrive in today’s market. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a lover of Akron’s rich history, or just curious about the secrets behind a century-old soda company, there’s something for everyone in this episode!

Leadership comes in all shapes, sizes, and forms, and an effective leadership strategy starts with the individual–understanding one’s strengths (and weaknesses), what makes them “tick”, and how they can best contribute to their community. Earlier this year, United Way Summit/Medina and Heart to Heart Leadership merged to create the Center for Immersive Leadership at United Way with a focus on creating opportunities for learning at individual, peer, and organizational levels. Steve sits down with Jeremy Lile, Chief of Leadership and Learning, and Jim Mullen, President and CEO of United Way Summit/Medina, to learn more about the mission and vision behind this merger and how the Center aims to empower inclusive leadership to drive systemic change and address key community issues.

This special episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers highlights the new partnership between the Greater Akron Chamber and the Cuyahoga Falls Chamber of Commerce. On November 20, 2024, the Chambers hosted a joint luncheon for members of both organizations to hear from Steve Millard, GAC President and CEO, and Ned Parks, Interim Executive Director of Cuyahoga Falls Chamber, discuss the partnership in a Q&A format.This collaboration provides unified membership benefits, enhanced regional connectivity, and local programming to foster economic growth and small business success throughout the Greater Akron area. Learn more at greaterakronchamber.org

Energy costs are on the rise, but businesses and organizations will see a significant increase in 2025. Xpense Solutions President and energy expert John Verdile stopped in earlier this year to explain the increase on episode 87; in this second part, John describes how businesses can adapt to these changes, including energy saving techniques and resources to utilize.

In September, Akron Municipal Court Navigator and community advocate Tara Mosley hosted “Women Supporting Women,” which brought women leaders and business vendors from across the region for a day of celebration, networking and purchasing products at Hardes ty Park. In this episode Steve chats with Tara and Joelle Diane Zellman, a vendor at the event and owner of Monochrome Canvas. The trio discuss the event, support and resources for small business owners, and Zellman’s perspective on the local art industry and how it fits into the greater business community.

In this episode, Steve sits down with RJ Nemer, who was appointed to President of the University of Akron in May 2024. RJ shares his vision for the university, reflecting on his journey and experiences that have led him to this role. From strategic goals to strengthen the university's academic programs to deepening its connections with the Akron community, RJ reveals how he plans to drive impactful changes across the university.

In September, Akron Municipal Court Navigator and community advocate Tara Mosley hosted “Women Supporting Women,” which brought women leaders and business vendors from across the region for a day of celebration, networking and purchasing products at Hardesty Park. In this episode Steve chats with Tara and Marketa Fry, a vendor at the event and owner of Security is Kee. The trio discuss the event, support and resources for small business owners, and the challenges and successes Marketa has gone through as an entrepreneur

BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) boasts a rich history steeped in innovation and performance. From the Naval Nuclear Propulsion program to research test reactors for national labs to complex operations management, BWX excels through a talented workforce, state-of-the-art technologies, and innovative solutions. In this episode, BWXT General Manager Mark Huber details how the company’s success stems from internal training, partnerships with universities, and a general focus on employee growth.

As we celebrate Manufacturing Month throughout October, a number of organizations are collaborating in response to employment needs in this vital industry sector within our region. The Greater Akron Chamber’s workforce team, ConxusNEO, is partnering with the Ohio Manufacturer’s Association (OMA) to support the USEDA's Good Jobs Challenge to boost the talent pipeline for manufacturing in Summit and Portage counties. To prepare individuals for career in manufacturing, Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOG) is delivering “WorkAdvance” programming that combines short-term training for basic manufacturing skills alongside career readiness and coaching. In this episode, Steve sits down with leaders from each organization to learn how they are working together to support workforce development within the manufacturing industry

The number one challenge for employers right now is workforce. In Green, OH, it’s no different. As Mayor Rocco Yeargin talked with employers, residents and community leaders in his city, he realized that there are a host of resources and opportunities that exist to support the City’s businesses that he could help better connect. Steve talks with Mayor Yeargin about Green, some of the challenges for its employers and an event coming up to connect the dots to support the workforce challenges being felt by all. The Mayor has assembled a great set of resources that you are going to want to know more about. The event is on October 16th and is free to attend, though registration is required: https://www.cityofgreen.org/755/Engaging-Green