Join host Mike Vanderpool as he sits down with Bob Savage on the Make It Happen podcast to discuss the power of education and community collaboration. Bob shares his journey growing up in Toledo, why he chose to stay, and how his nonprofit, Toledo Tomorrow, is working to improve education and career access across the region. From early childhood education to workforce development, Bob highlights the challenges, opportunities, and the importance of teamwork in driving meaningful change. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about shaping the future of Toledo!

Join us for an insightful conversation on the 'Make It Happen' podcast with host Mike Vanderpool and guest Matt Kibler, Director of Business Development at Custom Training Solutions. In this episode, we explore how Ohio’s Tech Cred program is transforming workforce development by providing funding for businesses to upskill employees in high-demand tech and manufacturing fields. Discover how companies can take advantage of this opportunity, the role of JobsOhio and the Regional Growth Partnership in economic growth, and the future of skilled labor in Northwest Ohio. Tune in to learn how businesses and employees alike can benefit from strategic workforce training!

In this episode of Make It Happen, host Mike Vanderpool sits down with Tom Bush to dive into the world of AI, technology, and the future of innovation in Northwest Ohio. From transforming Toledo’s reputation beyond manufacturing to the power of AI in business and automation, they explore how technology is shaping industries. They also discuss entrepreneurship, augmented intelligence, and how AI is creating new opportunities for both businesses and individuals.

Plus, a conversation about bourbon, data-driven insights, and the importance of embracing change in the digital era. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, business leader, or just curious about AI’s real-world impact, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.

Actual Reality Technologies

EmpoweredAI

Actual Bourbon

🎧 Listen now and get inspired to make it happen!

Vince Croci and Bre Yarnell highlight some of the cool events happening in Toledo and Northwest Ohio! For more about these events and others, please visit: https://www.toledo.com/events/

In this episode ofMake It Happen, host Mike Vanderpool sits down withLinda Amici, aninstructional design coach at Westerville City Schools, to explore how education can evolve to better engage students and prepare them for the future.

Linda shares insights onproject-based learning, design thinking, and the power of curiosity in the classroom. She discusses thechallenges of traditional education, the importance ofteacher agency, and howagile learning frameworks can transform the way students learn. From fostering creativity in middle schoolers to rethinking the role of teachers, this conversation is a must-listen foreducators, instructional designers, and lifelong learners alike!

🔹 The role ofengagement and agency in student success
🔹 How teachers canrevitalize their passion for education
🔹 Theintersection of industry and education in preparing future-ready learners
🔹 Whyinstructional design matters in the K-12 space

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion onrethinking education for the modern world. Let’sMake It Happen!

#Education #InstructionalDesign #Teaching #MakeItHappenPodcast #AgileLearning #DesignThinking #StudentEngagement #EdTech

Rocket Hacks 2025 – Innovation, Tech, and Hackathons

🚀Rocket Hacks 2025 is here! Join hostMike Vanderpool on theMake It Happen podcast as he sits down with three passionate University of Toledo students leading this year's hackathon. Discover how the RocketHacks team is bringing together tech minds to tackle real-world challenges inAI, sustainability, healthcare, and finance—all in just24 hours!

From coding competitions to innovative problem-solving, this episode dives into:

🎯 WhatRocket Hacks is and how it fosters collaboration
💡 The role ofhackathons in inspiring the next generation of innovators
🖥️ How students fromall backgrounds—not just programmers—can participate
📈 The growingtech culture in Ohio and its impact on startups

Listen in to hear howhackathons go beyond coding, why collaboration is key, and how these students are proving thatyou don’t have to be in Silicon Valley to build cool things!

🔥 Don’t miss this exciting episode—tune in now! 🔥

Step inside the ring of life withMake It Happen, where passion, discipline, and dedication collide. Hosted by Manav Misra, this podcast brings raw insights into professional wrestling, technology, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether it's breaking down historic Royal Rumbles, exploring the evolution of AI in coding, or discussing the art of continuous learning, this show is about pushing boundaries and making things happen. Tune in for engaging conversations, insider knowledge, and a deep respect for the craft—both in and out of the ring.

#RespectForWrestling #TechMeetsTheRing #MakeItHappen

In this lively and candid conversation, Bre Yarnell joins the podcast to talk about life in Toledo, local culture, and the power of community. From growing up in the city to working in the local bar scene and being part of Premier Pour, Bre shares her love for the area, her journey, and her passion for connecting with people. We dive into everything from childhood dreams to the magic of Legos, the importance of storytelling, and even a few unexpected life lessons. Whether you’re a Toledo native or just curious about the city, this episode is full of laughs, insights, and great local vibes. Tune in!

#Toledo #LocalStories #Podcast #Community #Entrepreneurship #Bartending #Legos #LifeLessons

🎙️ Make It Happen: Host Mike Vanderpool sits down with special guest Vince Croci (aka VC the MC) for an engaging conversation about creativity, connection, and community in Northwest Ohio. Vince shares his journey from growing up in Toledo to becoming a sought-after master of ceremonies, an advocate for local innovation, and a champion of the arts and tech scenes.

In this episode, Mike and Vince dive into Vince's joy he finds in storytelling and bringing people together. They explore topics like the vibrant Toledo tech and arts communities, Vince’s role as an emcee, and how passion projects can turn into fulfilling careers. This is a heartfelt and entertaining discussion about what it means to truly “make it happen!”

🔗 Perfect for: Dreamers, doers, and anyone looking for inspiration to chase their passions!

In this episode of the Make It Happen Podcast, we chat with Adam Cassi, Executive Director of Keep Toledo Lucas County Beautiful, about his journey into environmental leadership and the impactful work being done to beautify and sustain Toledo.

Adam shares insights into restoration ecology, the importance of urban tree canopies, and how community initiatives like "Ramp It Up" and "The Litter League" are making a difference. We also dive into recycling misconceptions, composting tips, and the role of green jobs in shaping a more sustainable future.

If you're passionate about the environment, curious about local community efforts, or just looking for inspiration to make a difference, this episode is for you.

🎙️ Topics Covered:

#Sustainability #EnvironmentalLeadership #Podcast #KeepToledoBeautiful #CommunityImpact #Recycling #Composting #GreenJobs

#makeithappen