In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sit down with Duane Mancini, CEO and co-founder of Project MedTech, to explore how his background in medicinal chemistry evolved into a mission-driven journey to support early-stage medtech startups. Duane shares how launching Project MedTech during the pandemic created an opportunity to provide consulting and capital support to healthcare innovators. The conversation covers the unique strengths of Midwest medtech, the power of storytelling in scientific marketing, and the growing role of AI in healthcare solutions. With eyes on expansion in 2025, Duane offers candid insights for founders—reminding us all that building a great company is a marathon, not a sprint.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, Matt Kaulig shares his journey from college athlete to executive chairman of Kaulig Companies Ltd., a growing enterprise spanning sports, media, and consumer products. He discusses founding LeafFilter Gutter Protection and how a bold, contrarian mindset helped him scale during the 2008 recession. Matt reflects on his leadership values—urgency, resilience, and a belief that not everyone needs to be a leader to make an impact. He also dives into Kaulig Charitable Giving and how aligning business with community support is core to his mission, including the company's role as title sponsor of a major PGA Tour Champions event in Northeast Ohio.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we chatted with Charlie Anderson, the YouTube creator turned pizza maker behind Cleveland’s viral sensation, Good Pizza. Charlie shares how a pandemic-fueled passion for sourdough baking launched his online following—and ultimately, a brick-and-mortar restaurant serving up artisan New York-style pies. From mastering fermentation to crafting content that converts followers into loyal customers, Charlie dives into the strategy behind blending digital influence with a physical food brand. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at growing a business that’s as much about community and craft as it is about crust.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Montana Banner, Director of Project Management and Communications at Thrive Peer Recovery Services. Montana shares Thrive’s inspiring origin story and its mission to support individuals through all stages of recovery, from ER visits to incarceration. She discusses the power of lived experience in building trust, the importance of peer-led programs like Survive to Thrive, and how Thrive addresses underserved populations—including survivors of human trafficking and isolated older adults. With a focus on grassroots outreach and workforce development, Montana offers a powerful perspective on what it means to market hope, healing, and human connection.

In need of peer recovery support? Call 1-877-636-3777 or refer at https://thrivepeersupport.com/referrals/.

To reach the Cuyahoga County Mental Health Warmline, call 440-886-5950.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, entrepreneur and community builder Manny Larcher shares his journey from his roots in St. Lucia to launching colaeb, a platform helping businesses cut costs and boost efficiency through authentic networking and AI tools. He reflects on the contrast between communal and individualist cultures and how that shaped his approach to leadership, business, and meaningful relationships. Manny shares the founding story of colaeb during the pandemic, the value of face-to-face connection in a digital world, and how problem-solving can be the most effective networking strategy. This episode is packed with practical wisdom on building community, leading with authenticity, and driving growth through strategic collaboration.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, Michael DeAloia, CEO of Evergreen Podcasts, dives into the company’s explosive growth and his unconventional journey from aspiring chef to Cleveland’s “Tech Czar” and now media executive. He shares how Evergreen scaled to 350+ shows and launched its own streaming service, EvergreenNOW, by leaning into a strategy focused on premium content, high-download performance, and smart partnerships with Arena Football One (AF1). Michael also unpacks the importance of creative agility, platform diversification, and how their content standards evolved to stay ahead of industry shifts. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of podcasting.

This episode of Marketing Moves features Jordan Bigelow and Julian Ayzman, co-founders of YaYa & Co, a sustainable home decor brand making waves with small-batch products and ethical sourcing. The duo shares how co-founder Candy launched YaYa & Co to disrupt fast furniture with community-driven craftsmanship and a mission rooted in social impact. The conversation covers how YaYa & Co markets to values-driven Gen Z shoppers, collaborates directly with artisans, and creates content that reflects their handmade ethos. Plus, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at growing the business, expanding product lines, and building out their new headquarters—all while staying true to their core values.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we are joined by Jackie Wachter, Co-Founder of luxury leather goods brand, FOUNT. In an energizing conversation with Madison Riddell, Jackie shares how a simple Christmas gift idea sparked an omnichannel business rooted in craftsmanship, sustainability, and community. From making each bag by hand alongside her business partner and husband, Phillip, to launching several brick-and-mortar locations and an eCommerce store, the FOUNT story is equal parts heart and hustle. Jackie and Madison dive into the brand’s go-to marketing tactics—like creating hype around “color drops” and launching viral giveaways—and how their retail storefronts create an immersive brand experience. Jackie also unpacks FOUNT's sustainable approach, commitment to repair over replace, and their exciting roadmap for product growth. This episode is full of gems for any brand-builder looking to dominate in premium retail.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, Ali Bonar, co-founder and CEO of Oat Haus, shares how her personal recovery from an eating disorder led to the creation of Granola Butter, the first oat-based spread of its kind. She opens up about the challenges of launching a new product category, the power of organic influencer partnerships, and the strategic storytelling that helped Oat Haus land in major retailers like Whole Foods and Costco. Ali also gets real about the mental health side of entrepreneurship, managing social media pressures, and what’s next for Oat Haus.

In this special episode of Marketing Moves, we take you inside From Bans to Breakthroughs: The 2025 Social Media Situation, a live event hosted at VividFront. With social media platforms in flux, ad costs rising, and emerging players like Neptune and Lemon8 making waves, our expert panel explored the shifting digital landscape and how brands can stay ahead. From leveraging first-party data to optimizing paid social strategies and embracing new content formats, this discussion uncovers the key tactics marketers need to future-proof their strategies. Tune in for actionable insights on diversifying social media approaches, maximizing ROI, and staying agile in an ever-changing market.