What if you could step back in time and experience rural Ohio's rich history while enjoying modern, innovative lodging? Join me, Michelle Gatchel, as I take you on an enchanting journey to Hideaway on the Hocking, guided by Cindy Hayes, whose family has lovingly preserved their 2,600-acre farm for 147 years. Hear Cindy recount fascinating tales connecting the farm to the B&O Railroad and President Rutherford B. Hayes, making this retreat a unique blend of American heritage and contemporary ecotourism.

Transitioning from traditional farming to ecotourism, the Hayes family faced numerous challenges and devised creative solutions, such as leasing land and listing unique accommodations on Airbnb like train cars and cabooses to stay in fitting the B&O heritage. Bigger parties can even stay in the train station. This episode captures the essence of rural Ohio ecotourism, demonstrating how one family's dedication has transformed a historical farm into a memorable and multifaceted destination.

Justine Blank, Vice President and co-founder of Engineered Product Innovations (EPI), shares her remarkable journey and how she, alongside her husband Brian, has revolutionized the world of RFID. Learn about the fascinating applications of RFID tags in sectors like defense, manufacturing, medical, and retail. These tiny devices are making significant impacts in automated inventory management and verification systems. Justine offers an insider’s look into the technology, explaining how it works and debunking common myths, such as whether passive RFID tags constantly emit signals.

For all aspiring entrepreneurs, Justine provides invaluable advice on validating your concepts and leveraging resources. Hear about EPI’s growth, from their initial funding strategies to securing crucial defense contracts. This episode doesn't just highlight their successes but also dives into the importance of learning from failures and the role of persistence. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or an entrepreneur eager to break new ground, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom to fuel your journey.

Ready to explore the future of food? Join Michelle Gatchell as she catches the momentum of an innovative company moving to Ohio called Nexture Bio. She sits down with Heidi Coia, Director of Product Development and Tissue Engineering at Nexture Bio, to unravel the science and potential of cultured meat. Heidi guides us through the fascinating process of creating structured meat products from animal cell biopsies, aiming to replicate traditional cuts like chicken breasts and pork loins without the ethical and environmental baggage. During our discussion, we dive into the regulatory landscape shaping the market availability.

Heidi gives us insight into the history of the cultured meat industry by spotlighting the accomplishments of trailblazing companies Good Meat and Upside. We delve into how cultured meat can address global food insecurity and nutrient deficiencies through fortification and cover recent FDA approvals, advancements in South Korea, and legislative hurdles. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, foodie, or sustainability advocate, this episode promises a captivating glimpse into the groundbreaking future of meat production.

This week on Midwest Momentum, Jon Snyder, the Managing Director of Investor Relations at Ohio Life Sciences, sheds light on the significant achievements and trends within Ohio's life sciences sector. This episode promises to reveal how Ohio's cost-efficiency and innovative capacity attract substantial investments from large out-of-state investors. We'll discuss the unique advantages of doing business in Ohio, from capital efficiency to pioneering technologies, making it a fertile ground for entrepreneurs and investors.

Jon highlights Ohio's thriving environment for med tech and biotech innovations and shares the pivotal role played by notable venture capital firms and state-based funders. Plus, we discuss how institutions like Case Western, Nationwide Children's, and The Ohio State University contribute to the state's growing appeal. With national trends pointing toward a rising interest in artificial intelligence within life sciences, Ohio is positioned at the forefront of this evolution.

Finally, we unpack the nuances of seeking funding for startups, emphasizing the art of storytelling, the importance of focus, and the relentless persistence required to secure investments. Learn actionable strategies for pitching to investors and strategic partners, and the value of sustained reporting and updates. Don't miss this deep dive into the dynamic landscape of Ohio's life sciences sector, capturing the exciting momentum building in the Midwest.

Can you imagine a world where humans have continuously lived in space for over two decades? That's the reality for anyone under the age of 23, thanks to NASA's unwavering commitment to exploration. In this episode, we reflect on this monumental achievement and dive into the insights shared by James Free, NASA's Associate Administrator.  He highlights Ohio's pivotal contributions, particularly through the NASA Glenn Research Center, which continues to push the boundaries of technology for air travel and space exploration. You'll learn how Ohio remains at the forefront of our quest to explore the cosmos.

You will be inspired by Howard (Lee) Mosbacker IV, PhD, Founder Cyrannus's journey from Ohio State University to pioneering multiple groundbreaking ventures, providing a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs. Lee Mosbacker is on a mission to transform the venture capital experience. 

Learn about Cyrannus' new app, which will soon launch in Alpha. This platform is designed to redefine the venture ecosystem by bridging the gap between researchers, innovators, and funders. It is an AI-driven funding platform designed to validate market demand for early-stage products and build investor trust.  The four industries they plan on testing the platform are,  AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and climate tech.

 Lee’s passion for technology and candid reflections on early setbacks offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of startups. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to understand the evolving landscape of venture capital and the tools driving the next generation of tech innovation.

Ever wondered how AI can revolutionize entrepreneurship? As we chat with Tushar Kulkarni from Big Kitty Labs about their groundbreaking dual focus on software and physical product development, prepare to be inspired. Tushar shares a new projet that is an "AI Playground" for entreprenuers.  This new initiative promises to democratize AI experimentation, breaking down financial barriers and fostering a fertile ground for creativity and innovation is a collaborative effort between government and industry.  With the potential for expansion to cities like Cincinnati and an exciting beta testing phase on the horizon, this episode is jam-packed with insights and opportunities for anyone passionate about AI and entrepreneurship.

Ever wonder how a tech visionary turns innovative ideas into practical tools used by the military? Join us on this exciting episode of Midwest Momentum as we sit down with Eric Wagner, a key figure in the Midwest Ohio tech community. Eric shares his journey from the early days of computer science to today when he is helping to create an ecosystem for AI startups in Hilliard, Ohio, called Hilliard City Lab. This episode contains valuable insights about seizing opportunities and taking decisive action.

Eric shares about the birth of the Center for Design Manufacturing Excellence (CDME) at Ohio State, co-founded by Eric and his partner, John Baer. The CDME became a hub for bringing brilliant minds together to work on commercialization and applied engineering. Hear how this venture paved the way for Converge Technologies, an engineering design and development firm, and Converge Ventures, a startup incubator. Despite facing venture capital funding challenges, Eric and John’s persistence and adaptability fueled their success, providing a supportive ecosystem for nurturing startups until they are ready for investment.

Finally, we plunge into the future of AI and its transformative impact across various sectors. Eric elaborates on his current work with UbiHere, focusing on geospatial analytics and environmental tracking and how these innovations revolutionize industries from fast food safety to employee performance. Additionally, get a sneak peek into his involvement with Lighthouse, an aerospace management company for drones and air taxis, and the obstacles faced in Ohio's drone delivery logistics. Entrepreneurs and small businesses looking for collaboration opportunities will also find valuable information on connecting through Hilliard City Lab. This is an episode brimming with inspiration, practical advice, and forward thinking.

How can academia, industry, and government collaborate to inspire the next generation of space explorers? Join us at the Ohio Space Forum in Cleveland, where we sit down with Marla Perez-Davis, former director of the NASA Glenn Research Center and current director at Kent State University's Division of Aeronautics and Engineering. Marla provides a wealth of knowledge on the importance of an inclusive educational pipeline and the critical need for hands-on experience through internships and grants. We discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and other technologies on the space industry and emphasize Ohio's robust supply chain as a backbone for space sector growth.

In our second half, we highlight the significant role diversity plays in driving innovation within the space industry. Marla shares her journey from directing a NASA center to Directing the aeronautical space and engineering program at Kent State University in Ohio. Then hear from Katie Horn, a student at Kent State, who gives us an inside look at her groundbreaking research projects, from preventing drone engine fires to electrifying airports. Katie also reveals her aspirations to become a fighter pilot. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the rapid pace of technological advancements, the future commercialization of space, and how these developments could lead to life-changing advancements on Earth and beyond.

Embark on an inspiring quest with Elizabeth McClain from Ohio Pet Charities as she narrates her evolution from a hands-on animal advocate to the helm of an organization providing for pet rescues. This heartwarming session unpacks how a collaborative approach has been a game-changer for pet-related nonprofits, with strategic alliances like the Cohatch Gives Scholarship and Hollywood Feed amplifying their cause. Prepare to be moved as we reveal events' immense impact on raising awareness and creating a community based on a shared love for our animal companions.

Elizabeth shares her insights on the pandemic's effect on pet ownership and the critical responsibilities of running a 501(c)(3) organization. We spotlight Ohio Pet Charities' Furry Friends Fund, which provides money for surgeries and procedures to animal shelters looking to help a furry friend but might not have the means to do so.