What does it take to be a leader who not only drives results but also builds resilience and wellbeing into the workplace? Christine Williams, Associate Vice President of Immersive Leadership at United Way of Summit& Medina, and John Ropar, longtime counselor and therapist, sit down with us to share their perspectives on leadership, growth, and mental health. Together, they explore how immersive leadership programs can equip professionals to lead with empathy, and why caring for mental wellbeing is key to creating stronger teams and communities.

To Dominique Waters, sneakers are more than fashion—they’re a bridge to science, self-discovery, and community change. The Akron Sneaker Academy founder shares how his path from luxury fashion to youth mentorship is using sneaker culture to spark interest in STEM, connect students to Akron’s history and polymer industry ties, and inspire the next generation to dream bigger.

What does it take to spark real change in a city’s core? In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, newly appointed Downtown Akron Development Corporation Executive Director Christopher Hardesty shares his vision for revitalizing downtown Akron. From transforming historic buildings into housing to reshaping public perceptions of safety and walkability, Chris discusses the power of partnerships, capital investment, and inclusive planning. He also highlights key collaborations with groups like Elevate Greater Akron and the University of Akron to drive momentum and make downtown a place where people want to live, work, and thrive

What if the key to Akron’s future workforce is sitting in your office right now... as an intern? In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Elizabeth Bartz, President and CEO of State and Federal Communications, shares how a well-designed internship program can do more than just support young professionals—it can fuel long-term economic growth and keep top talent rooted in the region. From hosting future lawyers to welcoming visits from presidents, her stories show the real impact internships can have on individuals and communities alike.

What actually gets decided in Columbus and D.C.—and how does it affect your business? In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Steve Millard talks with John Rizzo, VP of the Akron Canton Advocacy Alliance, for a deep dive into Ohio’s newly passed state operating budget and the federal reconciliation bill. From expanded tax credits and workforce programs to economic development tools and line-item vetoes and next steps, John breaks down what’s in the budgets, what they mean for your bottom line, and how local businesses can influence future policy.

Turning polymers into startups isn’t easy—but Akron is making it faster, smarter, and more collaborative. In this episode, Steve Millard talks with Nick Glavan of Bounce Innovation Hub aboutSynthe6,a new accelerator built to help materials science founders move from breakthrough ideas to real-world impact. With funding, expert mentorship, and connections to the Polymer Industry Cluster, Synthe6 is redefining what’s possible in Northeast Ohio. Applications are open through July 31 at bouncehub.org/synthe6.

As workforce needs continue to evolve across Ohio, the Ohio TechCred program remains a critical tool for helping employers close skill gaps and invest in their teams. In this episode, Jean Barbato, Senior Manager of the Manufacturing Sector Partnership at ConxusNEO, explains how businesses can take advantage of TechCred to receive up to $2,000 per employee for tech-focused credentials—up to $180,000 annually. With the July application window now open, this conversation is a timely look at how Northeast Ohio organizations can use TechCred to grow their workforce, retain talent, and remain competitive in today’s economy.

Downtown Cuyahoga Falls is full of flavor... and not just from the popcorn. Kaylee Piper of the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership and Brent Vanfossen, owner of Metropolis Popcorn, join Dreamers, Drivers, Doers to talk about the city’s downtown revival. From DORA and the Riverloop Project, to small business growth and 50+ popcorn flavors, hear how local energy, investment, and creativity are transforming the Falls into a must-visit destination.

What do the White House, global trade shows, and Akron’s economic revival have in common? Gregg Cramer. In this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Gregg reflects on his 18-year legacy at the Greater Akron Chamber, where he helped launch the “Akron USA” movement and brought global attention and investment to the region. From retaining giants like Goodyear to pitching Akron’s potential overseas, Gregg shares how strategic partnerships, persistence, and long-term vision have shaped the region’s future, and how he’s continuing that work in his new role at Green Harvest Capital.

When Zac Kohl bought his East Akron home for $4,500, he wasn’t just investing in property—he was planting roots in a neighborhood he believed in. Years later, that belief has grown into a movement, with community development, housing restoration, and now adynamic new food hall at the heart of it all in this episode of Dreamers, Drivers, Doers, Zac, Executive Director of The Well CDC, joins Barry Dunaway to talk with Steve Millard about transforming Middlebury through local ownership, economic reinvestment, and restoring pride in place. From teaching neighbors how to care for their homes to creating a rooftop gathering space with purpose, this is a story of what’s possible when people build with a community—not just in one.