Dreamers, Drivers, Doers

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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